Washington, D.C. – The International Code Council, in partnership with the Modular Building Institute (MBI), has published ICC/MBI 1210-2023, Standard for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Systems, Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation in Off-site Construction. This American National Standard is now part of ICC/MBI’s existing series of off-site construction standards including ICC/MBI 1200-2021 and ICC/MBI 1205-2021.

ICC/MBI Standard 1210 includes the componentization and modularization of elements of mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems and the incorporation of MEP systems in componentized, panelized or modularized building elements.

MEP elements used in off-site construction and opportunities to achieve increased energy efficiency and water conservation in the factory are addressed in this standard. Other areas addressed in the standard include the planning, designing, fabricating, transporting, assembly, approval and inspection of off-site constructed MEP elements within commercial and residential buildings.

Standards in the 1200 series address the entire life cycle of off-site construction projects from design and fabrication through approval and inspection. More information can be found here.

“As a leader in developing solutions to support advancements in safe, sustainable and affordable buildings, we are thrilled to partner with the Modular Building Institute on this project,” said Code Council Vice President of Innovation Ryan Colker. “Use of off-site construction is constantly growing and adapting, and standards like this help ensure that off-site construction can help address societal and industry challenges.”

ICC/MBI 1210-2023 Standard for Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing Systems, Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation in Off-site Construction is available for purchase here.

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About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

About the Modular Building Institute

Founded in 1983, the Modular Building Institute (MBI) is the international non-profit trade association serving modular construction. As the Voice of Commercial Modular Construction (TM), it is MBI’s mission to expand the use of offsite and modular construction through innovative construction practices, outreach and education to the construction community and customers, and recognition of high-quality modular designs and facilities. Learn more about MBI at modular.org

Washington, D.C.– The International Code Council is launching its inaugural World Water Awareness campaign to raise awareness of the collective responsibility to address the global water crisis through long-term, consistent water conservation efforts. Continuing throughout March, this campaign shows how the public can help address the issue of billions of people not having reliable access to safely managed drinking water and adequate sanitation services.

The World Water Awareness campaign features a dedicated webpage, research and information, key resources and educational events that both Code Council members and the general public can take advantage of. People can help with this campaign by sharing on social media, educating themselves and decision makers in their communities, signing a support letter, and attending the Code Council’s World Water events.

The Code Council is hosting both in-person and virtual educational events discussing water conservation-related topics, including how codes and standards can serve as a valuable policy tool to conserve water. “Standards Save: A Water Conservation Summit” is an in-person event on Thursday, March 21, in Washington, D.C. At the event, Dr. Esber Andiroglu from the University of Miami will be sharing findings from the university’s study detailing the critical need for the rapid adoption of modern, updated water conservation standards. Information on all World Water Awareness events can be found here.

“Water is an essential human need, and the global water crisis is only predicted to worsen in the near future,” said Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO. “Our World Water Campaign will not only bring awareness to this issue, but also provide resources on how people can get involved and help. This campaign shows how people can make a difference at both the individual and governmental levels.”  

Throughout the month, the Code Council is encouraging experts and organizations to collaborate with government officials and business leaders to take immediate action to implement sustainable solutions. Join this effort by signing a letter to policymakers highlighting the importance of water conservation resources. Learn more here.

New research and information are available for municipalities, policy makers and the public here. This information can aid in the rapid implementation of codes and standards and help guide decision-makers in managing limited resources.

Visit iccsafe.org/worldwater to learn more.

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About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

Muscat, Oman – In a significant move aimed at enhancing building safety and construction standards in the Sultanate of Oman, the International Code Council (ICC) has signed a contract with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning (MoHUP) to develop a series of six comprehensive building codes.

Leveraging ICC’s renowned expertise in crafting and implementing building codes for jurisdictions around the world, the initiative aims to tailor these codes to suit local contexts, reflecting the nation’s priorities and aspirations. This endeavor exemplifies ICC’s extensive experience in executing similar projects, underscoring its commitment to fostering safe, affordable, and sustainable communities worldwide.

The Minister of Housing, His Excellency Dr. Khalfan bin Said Al Shueili, and ICC’s Senior Vice President of Global Operations and Solutions, Judy Zakreski, joined forces to formalize the agreement. A ceremonial signing event took place on 14 February 2024 at the Royal Opera House in Muscat.

Collaboratively, ICC and MoHUP are dedicated to setting new benchmarks in building safety and construction practices in the country. The project’s primary areas of focus include safety standards, sustainability, and technology integration, with the entire endeavor slated for finalization by early 2026.

The Sultanate’s adoption of building codes based on the 2021 and 2024 International Codes (I-Codes) will serve as a catalyst for raising standards and promoting best practices nationwide. By embracing advanced building regulations that also align with regional standards, the country not only ensures the safety and well-being of its citizens but also positions itself as a leader in fostering safety and sustainability in construction.

Director General of Urban Planning at the MoHUP, Dr. Hanan Al Jabri, said: “With rapid infrastructure growth and urban development happening in the country, the demand for robust building codes prioritizing safety and resilience, has become increasingly important. The strategic cooperation between MoHUP and the ICC underscores a shared responsibility to advancing safety, sustainability, and innovation in the Sultanate’s construction industry and represents a significant milestone in the journey towards achieving the goals outlined in Oman Vision 2040.”

ICC’s Senior Vice President of Global Operations and Solutions, Judy Zakreski said: “We are honored to collaborate with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning on this exciting and important project. The Oman Building Codes will serve as a blueprint for safe, sustainable, and resilient construction practices in the country and align Oman’s building safety regulations with others in the MENA region.”

Throughout the project duration, ICC and MoHUP will be working closely with designated Omani authorities, design professionals, and other stakeholders. This inclusive approach, adopted by the ICC on every project, ensures consistency, harmonization, and support which will benefit Oman’s construction industry and its citizens.

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About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

Washington, D.C.– The International Code Council is participating in the 2024 Buildings and Climate Global Forum in Paris, France, between March 7 and 8, 2024. This event is the first of its kind and will build upon the progress made at the recent United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) and ongoing needs to deliver sustainable and resilient buildings around the world.  

The Buildings and Climate Global Forum will bring focus to the impact of the buildings and construction sector on the environment and its significant role in achieving climate goals. Cooperation and partnerships among high-level representatives from international organizations and building ministers will also be facilitated to accelerate the transition to near-zero emissions and resilient buildings.

The French Government and the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP) are hosting the forum through the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (GlobalABC). The International Code Council is co-leading two sessions during the forum: Achieving Climate-Resilient Buildings and Harmonizing Policies for Whole Life Carbon and Resilient Building Goals. Sustainable design practices, technological innovations and solutions in the sector will also be explored during approximately 20 thematic sessions.

Achieving Climate-Resilient Buildings will examine the current approaches to integrating resilience into building design, including resilience to future climate-driven hazards. It will identify current gaps in tools and deployment drivers and determine the actions necessary to make climate resilient buildings the new normal. Harmonizing Policies for Whole Life Carbon and Resilient Building Goals will highlight the importance and current state of building codes, standards, assessment frameworks and certification schemes in delivering global climate goals and the need to harmonize around common principles.  

International Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO is scheduled to speak at a CEO roundtable. Sims and Board President Stuart Tom will participate at ministerial roundtables alongside international building ministers on March 8. The International Code Council has also been a lead collaborator in shaping the development of numerous other thematic sessions, along with calls-to-action and commitments resulting from the forum.

“Tackling a changing climate requires multi-level international collaboration,” said Sims. “Being a part of global events like this and collaborating with governments, companies, and NGOs to address the climate-related challenges before us is an integral part of our mission to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide. We look forward to highlighting the role building codes, standards and building safety solutions play in achieving international climate goals.”

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About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.

Washington, D.C. – The International Code Council will hold the first Committee Action Hearings (CAH) for Group A International Codes® (I-Codes) from Sunday, April 7, through Tuesday, April 16, 2024, in Orlando, FL.

Code hearings are open to the public and offer building and design professionals, including code officials, architects, structural engineers, and plumbers, the opportunity to provide input on proposed code changes to the Group A I-Codes. Proposed changes to the 2024 Group A I-Codes are available for public view on the Code Council’s website. View the 2024 Complete Code Change Monograph and learn more about what will be discussed at the 2024 CAH here.

Starting in 2024, the code development process for the 2027 I-Codes introduces a restructured approach. It commences with two CAHs for the Group A codes followed in 2025 by two CAHs for the Group B codes. In April 2026, the Code Council will host a combined Group A and B Public Comment Hearings with a combined Online Governmental Consensus Vote in May 2026. Please refer to the 2024-2026 code development schedule for details on code groups and important deadlines.

The Group A I-Codes include:

• International Building Code®
• International Fire Code®
• International Fuel Gas Code®
• International Mechanical Code®
• International Plumbing Code®
• International Private Sewage Disposal Code®
• International Residential Code®
• International Swimming Pool and Spa Code®
• International Wildlife Urban Interface Code®

“Opportunities to participate in the code development process allow all industry stakeholders to have a direct, positive impact on the safety and sustainability of the built environment,” said Code Council Chief Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO. “Active participation from across the building and design community ensures the I-Codes are revised based on the latest building science and knowledge from prior experiences.”

The 2024 Committee Action Hearings, open to public participation, will take place immediately after the inaugural ICC Leadership Week. ICC Leadership Week is an exclusive benefit for Code Council members. The event features expert speakers, panel discussions, and networking opportunities focused around leadership.

For more information about ICC Leadership Week + Hearings and to register, visit www.iccsafe.org/committee-action-hearings/.

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About the International Code Council
The International Code Council is the leading global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions. Code Council codes, standards and solutions are used to ensure safe, affordable and sustainable communities and buildings worldwide.