Code Council May Hearings Focus on New Green and Swimming Pool Codes; Educational Tour Slated to Educate, Motivate Attendees

The public versions of the two newest International Code Council safe and energy-efficient codes—the 2012 International Green Construction Code (IGCC) and the 2012 International Swimming Pool and Spa Code—(ISPSC) will undergo changes during code development hearings in May. The hearings, May 16-22 in Dallas, will offer Code Council Members and others in the construction industry, including sustainable building professionals and swimming pool and spa builders, an opportunity to offer technical and scientific expertise that will help shape the two codes.

“Your expertise is critical to the ICC code development process to ensure that requirements are safe, sustainable and affordable to communities that are looking for new ways to enhance economic development,” ICC Board President Jimmy Brothers said.

Results of the May hearings will form the basis for changes to be heard at Final Action Hearings Nov. 2-6 in Phoenix, which will result in the first editions of the IGCC and ISPSC as full-fledged model codes. Both codes are expected to be published in March 2012. The 13 existing 2012 codes are scheduled for release in May 2011.

Online Registration

Registration (www.iccsafe.org/hearings) is free to attend the Dallas hearings. By registering in advance, voting credentials for all ICC Members can be verified before delegates arrive at the hearings. The last date to apply for voting credentials is May 6.

Educational Visits to the Dallas Cowboys’ Stadium, Pioneer 360 Business Center

Two Dallas facilities will be on the building educational tour 2-6 p.m. on May 15, one day before the hearings begin. The tours will explore Dallas architecture and local code-related challenges. Participants will see first-hand how architects and builders are bringing more sustainable buildings to Dallas during tours of the Dallas Cowboys’ Stadium and the Pioneer 360 Business Center. The center was the first industrial project in Texas to earn LEED Gold Core and Shell certification. The tour will be conducted by individuals who have extensive code knowledge. Participants can earn up to 0.4 ICC CEU’s and AIA LU’s. The cost is $200.

Discount Hotel Rates at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel

The hearings will be held at the Sheraton Dallas Hotel located in the Arts and Financial District just minutes away from the American Airlines Center, the historic 6th Floor Museum, and great dining options. ICC has negotiated special room rates of $144 (www.iccsafe.org/hearings click “lodging” tab). Governmental rates also are available.

The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety, fire prevention and energy efficiency, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states choose the International Codes, building safety codes developed by the International Code Council. The International Codes also serve as the basis for construction of federal properties around the world, and as a reference for many nations outside the United States.