International Code Council Annual Conference Approaching

Residential fire sprinklers and improved energy efficiency are just two of the code change proposals expected to draw lively debate during the International Code Council's Final Action Hearings at the Code Council's 2008 Annual Conference to be held Sept. 14-23, at the Minneapolis Convention Center. Adopted as the model code foundation for the Wisconsin Commercial Building Code, the Code Council's Annual Conference offers an opportunity to broaden code knowledge and contribute to the future of building safety and fire prevention.

"Participation in the code development process leads to safer construction, saved lives and reduced property losses," said Code Council CEO Rick Weiland. "We look forward to welcoming a strong turn-out of First Preventers – code officials – along with local government officials, architects, engineers, contractors and other construction industry rofessionals."

This year's Conference and Final Action hearings present a great opportunity for all stakeholders in the commercial building enterprise to participate and engage in the process that not only shapes our built environment but also has great impact on the commercial building economy of Wisconsin.

The Code Council's Annual Conference features the Final Action Hearings, Sept. 17-23, which will result in the 2009 International Codes, and gives all attendees the opportunity to voice their opinions about proposed code changes by fostering full and open participation in the Code Council's governmental process.

Nearly 30 education sessions will be offered during Annual Conference, giving participants the opportunity to earn CEUs and LUs. Topics include hazard response, disaster mitigation, green building and more. Certification testing will be available Sept. 19-22 for residential and commercial building, electrical, plumbing and mechanical inspectors; fire inspectors and fire plans examiners.

The International Code Council Expo will feature more than 100 exhibitors displaying construction industry-related products and services designed to improve the built environment. A special section of the Expo will be dedicated to plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas products. Exhibitors represent manufacturers, service companies, government agencies and trade associations.

Other features activities include the Code Council's Opening Event, hosted by Target Corporation, the annual business meeting, awards luncheon, golf tournament, fun run and the Fifth Annual Bob Fowler Motorcycle Ride.

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

To register for the conference, call 1-888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233), ext. 4229 or visit the International Code Council website at iccsafe.org.

-- Henry Kosarzycki, AIA