New ICC professional certifications emphasize disaster recovery

The need for assistance during recovery from disasters prompted the International Code Council to offer two new professional certifications: Disaster Response Inspector Certification, and Coastal and Flood Plain Construction Inspector Certification.

"Both of these certifications fill a critical industry niche by providing an important tool for assessing practical competency in the use of codes and standards and encouraging professionalism," said Dave Nelson, ICC Vice President of Certification and Testing. "In the face of natural or manmade disaster, it's our job to find ways to create better buildings and safer communities through codes and standards that are effectively enforced."

Those who pass the Disaster Response Inspector Certification exam have the most current knowledge and expertise to assess the safety of structures following disasters. The certification exam tests an individual's ability to inspect, evaluate and document structural damage. The exam focuses on a range of critical duties, key site assessment criteria and a number of related duties that are required of an inspector during the critical post-disaster response. Individuals earning Disaster Response Certification are qualified to assist any community in its disaster assessments.

The Coastal and Flood Plain Construction Inspector Certification brings an added layer of protection to coastal developments and communities with designated flood plain zones. Individuals earning the Coastal Construction Flood Plain Inspector certification can inspect coastal homes and businesses to ensure the structures meet code requirements, including special requirements in high wind zones.

For more information about the International Code Council's Certification Program, click here or call 1-888-ICC-SAFE (422-7233), ext. 33806.

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.