International Code Council Partners with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to Address Water Scarcity and Public Safety

Washington, D.C. – On December 5, 2023, the International Code Council signed a Decentralized Wastewater Management Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and its partner organizations. Through this agreement, the Code Council will provide leadership and resources to regulate and educate on the importance of responsible management of wastewater systems. 

One in five homes in the U.S. relies on private decentralized wastewater systems. The MOU is a continuation of a decades-long collaboration between the Code Council and the EPA which included information sharing on system technology, training initiatives, public awareness campaigns about septic system care and maintenance, and the development of materials on decentralized wastewater systems. 

“We are honored to join in this partnership and look forward to working collaboratively to help implement wastewater and sanitation best practices,” said Code Council Plumbing, Mechanical and Fuel Gas Executive Director, Matt Sigler. “When this type of wastewater system fails, the results are catastrophic, often polluting drinking water and creating public health hazards. Changes in flood plains like rising sea levels brought on by a changing climate are exacerbating these system failures and they must be addressed.” 

The Code Council facilitates the development of the International Private Sewage Disposal Code® (IPSDC), which has been adopted in communities across 17 U.S. states and by Puerto Rico and Guam, required by the General Services Administration, and recognized by FEMA’s Community Rating System, which provides federal flood insurance discounts for communities undertaking disaster mitigation measures. The Code Council is currently improving upon the existing code through development of the ICC 825 – Private Sewage Disposal Systems Standard, a new international standard that builds on the IPSDC to integrate newer technologies and methods, and most importantly, the impacts of a changing climate. 

### 

About the International Code Council 
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide. 

2024 Building Safety Month Kids Corner

Kids Corner

Hi! I’m CODiE. Welcome to Kids Corner. I’m here to teach you about building safety.

Download and complete the exercises in the Activity Book below – ask your parents to review them with you. You can download all the activities at once or one by one. Once you’re done, you will have officially completed your training and earned your certificate as a Junior Code Official!

There's also a Building Safety in Your Home Checklist that you can go through as a family to make sure your home is safe.

Coloring Book

Coloring Book
Download pdf

Activity Book

Activity Book
Download pdf

Certificate

Certificate
Download pdf

Building Safety in Your Home Checklist

Building Safety in Your Home Checklist
Download pdf

Individual Activities

Crossword Puzzle

Crossword Puzzle
Download pdf

Fire Escape & Danger Find

Fire Escape & Danger Find
Download pdf

Safety Search & Safety Kit Fun

Safety Search & Safety Kit Fun
Download pdf

Safety Scramble

Safety Scramble
Download pdf

Classroom Presentation (K–3)

Classroom Presentation (K–3)

Classroom Presentation (K–3)
Download PowerPoint

Kids’ Proclamation

New for 2024, kids can now submit a proclamation to show their support for Building Safety Month!

Step 1: Download the proclamation here.

Step 2: Complete the proclamation.

Step 3: Upload your proclamation in the form below, or click here.

Step 4: Check back here to see your uploaded proclamation. Allow two business days to see your proclamation posted.

Kids’ Proclamation

Merchandise

Parents, teachers and chapter leaders, check out these fun Building Safety Month-themed items that would make a great gift or giveaway for kids!

Stickers

Stickers
Available for purchase

Stickers

Pencils
Available for purchase

Stickers

Safety Vests
Available for purchase

Stickers

Construction Hats
Available for purchase

2024 BSM – Member – Social Media Hub

Social Media Hub

Social media plays an important role in amplifying Building Safety Month messaging – it's a great way to engage with your followers, share new information and get people involved. Here we've put together easy-to-incorporate best practices for the top social media platforms to help you spread the word about building safety. Also, scroll to the bottom of the page, or click here, to find instructions on how to best record video for a social media post.

Facebook – Tips for Success


Facebook has the widest audience and the most active users of any social media platform.

Keep these tips in mind:

  1. Write with a clear and concise voice that is easy to understand.
  2. Use between 40 and 80 characters in a post, and remember, the shorter the better!
  3. Use high-quality images or videos to capture the attention of your followers.
  4. Interact with your followers by asking a question, including a link, etc.
  5. Include the #BuildingSafety365 hashtag, and no more than three hashtags per post.
  6. It is recommended to post on Facebook no more than once a day.


Sample Facebook Post

Instagram – Tips for Success


Instagram is a popular photo and video sharing platform that connects people who have similar interests and/or aspirations.

Keep these tips in mind:

  1. Use high-quality videos and photos that are high resolution and cropped correctly.
  2. Use between 138 and 150 characters per post.
  3. Keep your captions concise and relatable.
  4. Use at least 10 to 15 hashtags per Instagram post (but no more than 30 hashtags) to increase visibility and engagement.
  5. Utilize Instagram Stories and other video features, such as Reels or IGTV, to diversify your content and increase view.
  6. It is recommended to post on Instagram three to five times a week, and no more than once a day.


Sample Instagram Post

LinkedIn – Tips for Success


LinkedIn is a professional networking platform most commonly used for job searching and career development. It is popular with individuals, companies and organizations for business-related purposes such as networking, recruitment and industry highlights.

Keep these tips in mind:

  1. Keep your posts professional and relevant to your industry.
  2. Keep your character count per post under 300 to maximize engagement.
  3. Include images or videos to make your posts more interesting.
  4. Try to position yourself as a thought leader – share insightful recommendations, experiences or tips.
  5. Use a clear and concise headline to grab your readers’ attention.
  6. It is recommended to post between three to five times a week on LinkedIn, and no more than once a day.
  7. It is recommended to use no more than three hashtags per post.


Sample LinkedIn Post

X – Tips for Success


X is used for sharing short messages, called posts. Used by both individuals and organizations, X is known for its fast-paced conversations and its use of hashtags to categorize and follow specific topics or events in real-time.

Please make sure to…

  1. Keep your posts short and sweet, ideally under 280 characters.
  2. Use images or videos to make your posts stand out.
  3. Use relevant hashtags (no more than three) to increase the visibility of your posts.
  4. Engage with your followers and other X users by responding to posts and reposting content.


Sample X Post

What are hashtags and why do we use them?

Hashtags are keywords or phrases used on social media that are preceded by the pound sign (#). Hashtags help new people find your content.

Video – Tips for Success


Video has quickly become an important part of social media, and creating quality video content has never been easier. Follow these tips to record better videos.

Location

Choose an environment that is quiet and where you will not get interrupted. Also make sure the location you pick has reliable, high-speed internet.

Camera

Most cellphone cameras and laptop webcams now record in high enough resolution for basic webinar and social media use. Make sure the camera is recording horizontal, unless you're filming an Instagram Reel, YouTube Short or TikTok video.

Audio and Microphone

For audio, you can use either wired or wireless earbuds (best solution) or your computer’s internal mic.

Lighting

To look your best in a video, make sure the environment is not too dark and that your face is clearly visible. Conversely, do not position a glaring light directly on your face. We recommend recording a test video to make sure your face or attire isn't washed out by the light in the room.

Background

You can either go with a natural background or a Building Safety Month branded background.

  • If you choose a natural background (the environment you are in), make sure the wall behind you is not too cluttered or distracting.
  • If you prefer a branded Building Safety Month video call background, they will be available soon.

The International Code Council Releases 2024 International Codes®

Washington, D.C. – The International Code Council’s 2024 International Codes® (I-Codes) are now available for order in print and digital formats. As part of the Code Council’s digital transformation strategy to enhance the user experience, the updated I-Codes® have undergone substantial design and formatting changes, resulting in a revolutionary design that improves both readability and sustainability.

The recently released I-Codes include the 2024 editions of the:

  • International Building Code®
  • International Existing Building Code®
  • International Fuel Gas Code®
  • International Mechanical Code®
  • International Plumbing Code®
  • International Private Sewage Disposal Code®
  • International Property Maintenance Code®
  • International Swimming Pool and Spa Code®
  • International Wildland-Urban Interface Code®
  • International Zoning Code®
  • ICC Performance Code for Buildings and Facilities®

The remaining 2024 International Codes will be released in early 2024.

“We are continuously looking for ways to improve the user experience,” said Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO. “The 2024 I-Codes enhance safety, increase affordability and incorporate the latest advancements in building science, and we are looking forward to users engaging with the new format.”

Other notable changes to the 2024 I-Codes include QR codes replacing marginal markings and a new NFC tag pilot program. More information on all of the style changes made to the I-Codes can be found here.

Visit here to preorder or purchase the 2024 I-codes.

###

About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

2024 BSM – Member – Promotional Toolkit

Promotional Toolkit

The success of Building Safety Month depends on the efforts and involvement of code professionals, teachers and community members like you. From sending a news release to a local media outlet, to hosting a virtual classroom presentation on building safety, here we've gathered all the tips and resources you'll need to promote Building Safety Month in your community and beyond.

Steps to Success


Make it a movement, make some noise and make it fun – every action you take plays a part in spreading the word about building safety. Here we've listed some of our most popular and effective promotion tips. Download our "Campaign Promotion Guide" for more ideas:

  • Get your community leaders on board as supporters and request that your governor, state cabinet officers and/or your county/city councils and mayor issue proclamations declaring May Building Safety Month.
  • Engage spokespersons from your local building or fire department to give talks on building safety throughout the month in schools, civic clubs and more.
  • Use the resources on our Kids Corner page to help kids understand what building safety professionals do and how they make our homes and communities safer for everyone.

Building Safety Month Campaign Promotion Guide

Building Safety Month Campaign Promotion Guide
Download pdf

Media Outreach


Local television news networks, radio stations, newspapers and hometown social media accounts are always looking for a story – use the media outreach tips below, and download our "Press Release" and "Letter to the Editor" templates to encourage coverage of your events.

  • Call or text local reporters to cover your scheduled events.
  • Post event details on your social media platforms and websites well in advance and post a reminder the day before.
  • Send a press release encouraging local media to cover your Building Safety Month activities. 
  • Designate someone in your department or find a local dignitary to be your spokesperson for media interviews.

Building Safety Month Press Release Template

Building Safety Month Press Release Template
Download Word doc

Building Safety Month Letter to Editor Template

Building Safety Month Letter to Editor Template
Download Word doc

Digital Assets


Below you will find Building Safety Month 2024 digital assets, including the poster, weekly icons, web banners and video call backgrounds.

To view our collection of printable brochures, infographics and one-sheets, click here.

Building Safety Month

Building Safety Month
Digital Poster

Download jpg

Building Safety Month Weekly Icons

Building Safety Month Weekly Icons
Download zip file

Building Safety Month<br data-lazy-src=

Building Safety Month
Video Call Backgrounds

Download zip file

Building Safety Month Web Banners

Building Safety Month Web Banners
Download zip file

2024 BSM – Member – Event Resources

Event Resources

The International Code Council encourages code professionals, building departments, teachers and community members to host in-person and virtual learning events for Building Safety Month. These events are an effective way to help raise the profile of building safety professionals and the work they do in our communities, and highlight how building codes help keep us all safe.

While no two events look the same, here you'll find resources for in-person events and webinars that cover all the basics so you can focus on what matters most – connecting with your audience and attendees.

In-Person Events


There are no substitutes for an in-person event – audiences are often more engaged and hosts can offer a truly unique experience to attendees. For Building Safety Month, in-person events can range from educational events or construction site walkthroughs, to mock inspections or classroom presentations at a local school.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when planning and executing your in-person events for Building Safety Month.

  • Schedule panelists or speakers as soon as you have a rough outline for the event.
  • Choose a venue or location that can meet your attendance goals.
  • Promote your event four to six weeks in advance through social media, email invitations, advertisements, etc.
  • Consider including a virtual component so people can also attend from home.
  • Run through your agenda beforehand with all parties and note timing or any sticking points.
  • Observe state and local guidelines for safety best practices and restrictions.
  • At least one week before, "walk through" the event as if you are an attendee – from the moment they arrive to when they leave – to make sure you haven't missed anything.

Tips for Hosting an In-Person Building Safety Month Event

Tips for Hosting an In‑Person
Building Safety Month Event

Download pdf

Virtual Events


Virtual events are more cost-effective, easy to set up and can be attended from the comfort of home.

We've listed a few tips for hosting a virtual Building Safety Month event below, and be sure to download our complete webinar guide for more information.

  • Leverage subject matter experts as you brainstorm topics and develop content.
  • Choose a platform and set up a registration page (WebEx, Click Meeting, Zoom, etc.) that includes speaker information, the agenda, etc.
  • Start promoting four to six weeks in advance and use social media, email invitations and your website to share your registration page link.
  • Organize and test prior to the event, including testing internet reliability, sound, mics and computer issues.
  • Follow up with attendees after the event to provide next steps and ask for feedback.

Tips for Hosting a Building Safety Month Webinar

Tips for Hosting a Building Safety Month Webinar
Download pdf

Tips for Hosting a Building Safety Month Webinar

Tips for Hosting a Building Safety Month Webinar
Download pdf

2023 Sponsor Options

Sponsorship Options

The International Code Council is grateful for the companies and organizations that are making building safety a priority by helping to sponsor Building Safety Month.

Become a Sponsor

Sponsorship for the 43rd Annual Building Safety Month provides unmatched, high profile opportunities to demonstrate your organization's commitment to building safety. Sponsorship will showcase your message and highlight your commitment to individuals and organizations in building code development, catastrophe management, emergency management, fire safety, green and energy construction, home improvement, home inspection, insurance, manufacturing, real estate, recreational safety, standards and testing, and more.

Read the 2023 ICC Visibility Prospectus for all International Code Council sponsorship, advertising and exhibiting options, including Building Safety Month, the 2023 Annual Conference, Learn Live and more.

Click each title to see sponsorship level benefits and become a sponsor
  • Listed as the presenting sponsor for Building Safety Month with logo on all distributions
  • Sponsored article in the Building Safety Journal
  • Receives all benefits from the Presenting Sponsor Level

To become a sponsor, contact Maureen Hennessey (SB Expos and Events, Official Sponsorship Vendor for ICC)
Phone direct (301) 979-9524 or ICC@discoversb.com

  • Sponsor will choose one of the five weeks to be featured and will have the option to provide
    a statement on how they impact building safety for that week’s press release
  • One (1) complimentary Code Council Annual Conference (Fall 2023) registration
  • Receives all benefits from the Theme Week Co-Sponsor Level

To become a sponsor, contact Maureen Hennessey (SB Expos and Events, Official Sponsorship Vendor for ICC)
Phone direct (301) 979-9524 or ICC@discoversb.com

  • Listed as the exclusive sponsor on the Chapter Resources Page which helps more than 390 Code Council chapters around the world promote building safety in their communities
  • Receives all benefits from the Supporter Level

To become a sponsor, contact Maureen Hennessey (SB Expos and Events, Official Sponsorship Vendor for ICC)
Phone direct (301) 979-9524 or ICC@discoversb.com

  • Sponsor will choose one of the five weeks to be featured
  • Listed as an overall sponsor of Building Safety Month throughout the campaign
  • Sponsor logo shown on the Building Safety Month website homepage
  • Sponsor logo featured on promotional flyers and advertisements used in virtual sessions.
  • 100-word profile, logo and link to your corporate website on the sponsor web page
  • Sponsor logo and link in the Building Safety Journal
  • Recognition on signage at the Code Council Annual Conference (Fall 2023)
  • Receives all benefits from the Supporter Level

To become a sponsor, contact Maureen Hennessey (SB Expos and Events, Official Sponsorship Vendor for ICC)
Phone direct (301) 979-9524 or ICC@discoversb.com

  • Social media mentions (LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter)
  • Company/Individual name listed on the sponsor webpage
  • Use of the Building Safety Month logo to promote your involvement and support

To become a sponsor, contact Maureen Hennessey (SB Expos and Events, Official Sponsorship Vendor for ICC)
Phone direct (301) 979-9524 or ICC@discoversb.com

Become a Building Safety Month Sponsor

OFFICIAL SPONSORSHIP VENDOR for ICC – SB EXPOS & EVENTS
Maureen Hennessey, Exhibit/Sponsorship Sales Manager,
Phone direct (301) 979-9524 or ICC@discoversb.com

The International Code Council’s 44th Annual Building Safety Month Campaign to Kick Off First Week of May

Washington, D.C. –The month-long educational campaign, which raises awareness about the importance of building codes in establishing and ensuring the safety of the built environment, kicks off on May 1, 2024. This year’s theme, “Mission Possible” encourages people to get involved in all aspects of building safety. Each year, the Code Council, its members and global communities celebrate building safety through proclamations, educational events and community gatherings.

Building Safety Month 2024 will explore how building safety is a mission that is only possible when we work together with our local communities for positive change. The weekly themes for this year’s campaign are:

  • Week One (May 1–4): “Understanding the Mission”
  • Week Two (May 5—11): “Preparing a Building Safety Plan”
  • Week Three (May 12—18): “Learning from the Pros”
  • Week Four (May 19—25): “Engaging Your Community”
  • Week Five (May 26—31): “Celebrating Success in Building Safety”

“Building safety should never be taken for granted,” said Code Council Board President Stuart Tom, P.E., CBO, FIAE. “By working together and spreading awareness of building codes and the role they play in ensuring safety in the built environment, we can protect the spaces where we live, work, play and learn.”

The Code Council provides resources to promote Building Safety Month including safety tips, promotional graphics and resources for students.

More details about the 2024 Building Safety Month will be released in the coming months. Be sure to visit here for more information.

Show your commitment to building safety and become a Building Safety Month sponsor by visiting here.

View the 2024 Building Safety Month Poster here.

###

About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

2024 Building Safety Month News

Building Safety Month News and Highlights

Press Releases, News Articles and Highlights

Press Releases

News Articles

About Building Safety Month

About Building Safety Month

Building Safety Month is an international campaign that takes place in May to raise awareness about building safety. This campaign reinforces the need for the adoption of modern, regularly-updated building codes, and helps individuals, families and businesses understand what it takes to create safe and sustainable structures.

The International Code Council, its members, and a diverse partnership of professionals from the building construction, design and safety communities come together with corporations, government agencies, professional associations and nonprofits to promote building safety through proclamations, informational events, legislative briefings and more. We come together to support Building Safety Month because we understand the need for safe and sustainable structures where we live, work and play.

All communities need building codes to protect their citizens from disasters like fires, weather-related events and structural collapse. Building codes are society's best way of protecting homes, offices, schools, manufacturing facilities, stores and entertainment venues. Code officials work day in and day out to keep the public safe.

History

For the last 44 years, we have celebrated advances in constructing safe, sustainable, affordable and resilient buildings and homes. The ongoing support of Building Safety Month and the important role code officials play in public safety in the built environment has come from U.S. presidents, governors, mayors, county executives, other government officials and construction industry professionals.