Volunteers needed for important building code mission

Construction personnel perform a critical role in the wake of catastrophes. Their knowledge, skills and abilities are essential to community reconstruction. In coordination with the International Code Council (ICC) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources in the U.S. Virgin Islands needs volunteers — interested individuals or teams of building officials to assist in the assessment of buildings impacted by Hurricanes Maria and Irma. The Building Permitting Office has only two building officials for the entire territory. The most immediate need is for ICC-certified plan reviewers, inspectors and permit technicians. Deployment can range from two to four weeks.

This mutual aid request will be facilitated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), which provides reimbursement to state or local jurisdiction employees for their assistance. The reimbursement process will begin after the deployment period ends. All incurred expenses must be recorded and submitted to the personnel’s state EMAC Coordinator upon return to the mainland.

Requirements:

Individuals interested in this mission should first receive permission from their direct supervisor to participate and then contact your state EMAC Coordinator, to respond to the request (#1306-RR-7432).

Must be employed by a municipal or county government agency. Private-sector entities are not yet reimbursable through EMAC in most states.

Personnel MUST be able to interpret and enforce the 2015/2018 International Codes.

• It is recommended to bring a paper or electronic ICC code references (for each trade) in case code books are unavailable or delayed.

All personnel must have a copy of certificate in their specialty proof of credentials to perform request duties and must be physically able to perform the required duties for each position.

• Plan examiners must have a current ICC certification in building, plumbing, mechanical or electrical trades. Multi-licensed preferred.
• Inspectors must have a current ICC certification in building, plumbing, mechanical or electrical trades. Multi-licensed preferred.
• Permit technicians/coordinators must have a current ICC certification.

Each individual will be responsible to coordinate their own air travel, rental car, accommodations and food. Fleet vehicles will be available for use. Instructions for renting vehicles for use during the deployment will be provided. All personnel, including plans examiners and permit technicians will need a vehicle to get from hotel accommodations to each permitting facility.

Each jurisdiction will be responsible to keep the required documentation to submit for reimbursement directly to the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources.

Each individual must bring their own work equipment.

• Cell phone in the event 2-way radio equipment is not available.
• Personal protection equipment, including rain and safety gear, hard hat, boots, flash light, sunscreen, etc.
• Equipment used in regular performance of their job (e.g. tape measures, laser measuring devices, digital cameras, tablets and laptops).

Immunizations or vaccinations advised. Light hazards (mold) may exist.

Personnel will report to one of three temporary buildings or other alternate facilities fully equipped to serve as satellite permit offices for staff. Includes standard desks, furnishings and desktop computers with networking.

A passport is not required for travel but encouraged.

If you wish to volunteer, or you have contacts with individuals or groups who might wish to help, your State Emergency Management Agency can help you with details (indicate you are responding to the Resource Request #1306-RR-7432).

Only six months have passed since Hurricane Maria struck the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Category 4 storm destroyed houses and significant infrastructure, leaving mass devastation. As we approach the beginning of hurricane season on June 1, we thank the dozens of ICC members who answered the call to help. Together we can help the communities in the U.S. Virgin Islands during this period of rebuilding.