Building codes ensure safety of building projects.
The International Building Code is the product of a public interest organization called the International Code Council (ICC). The organization's mission is to create building safety codes without regional limitations. Founded in 1994, the nonprofit has created 13 international safety codes.
Purpose
The Council was developed in response to the need for standards that transcended regional boundaries. The standards reflect basic construction needs to provide adequate health and safety for occupants. The standards are developed by a committee and consensus process, the same as the building code itself.
Process
The International Building Code was developed through a strictly governed consensus process. The ICC's process is defined by the following core values: openness, transparency, balance of interest, regulated due process and regulated appeals process. In the end, the final say is left to public safety officials unbiased by financial interests in the outcome.
Significance
While the International Building Code is a voluntary set of standards, all 50 states and the federal government have adopted it. It can be enforced at a state or jurisdictional level. Many federal agencies, including the National Park Service and the Department of Defense require it in their construction projects.
