New Saudi Arabian building code to be based on I-Codes

The International Code Council will share building safety knowledge and technical expertise with Saudi Arabia, according to a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the U.S.-based Code Council and the Saudi Building Code National Committee (SBCNC). The 2003 and 2006 International Codes will be the basis for a new Saudi Building Code to be implemented later this year.

“By using the I-Codes as the foundation for its first national building code, Saudi Arabia has access to proven methods and technologies to address building risks, especially the threat of earthquakes,” said International Code Council CEO Rick Weiland. “The Saudis also have unique building experiences to share with the Code Council and its members. We look forward to exchanging information to better protect the residents of both of our nations.”

The MOU calls for joint projects such as the development of building codes and specifications, preparation of technical information services and publications, and the development of technical seminars. Under the agreement, representatives from the Code Council and the SBCNC will meet in both the U.S. and Saudi Arabia to exchange technical expertise in support of building code-related activities and the promotion of technologies, research, publications and services.

The Code Council also is working with Mexico to develop residential construction standards based on the International Residential Code and supporting code development efforts in several Caribbean nations. I-Codes also are used by the U.S. Department of Defense to guide the construction of military bases and other facilities abroad.

The International Code Council, a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention, develops the codes used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. Most U.S. cities, counties and states that adopt codes choose the International Codes developed by the International Code Council.