April 3rd, 2020
by Ryan Colker

Code departments are adapting to ensure that they can continue to perform their public safety mission while protecting code officials, the construction workforce and the public at large from the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). In an effort to support our members during this time, the International Code Council is providing building safety professionals with a series of free webinars to share valuable information on continuing to deliver essential services during this unprecedented time. Webinar capacity is limited, so please register early. The webinars will be recorded for future viewing.

 

Webinar 1: Remote Options for Permitting, Plan Review and Inspection

This webinar will share examples of ways code departments across the U.S. are continuing to operate during the pandemic. It will feature code officials from a variety of jurisdictions, presenting the solutions and lessons learned as they have worked to navigate the current challenges. This webinar will give examples of a range of options with the goal of helping jurisdictions to quickly restore some operations using readily available remote technologies and methodologies. The speakers will also provide suggestions for ways that some of these tools can be used to streamline and improve processes in the future during normal operations.

Part 1: Moving Permitting and Plan Review Online | April 10, 2020, 12:00-1:30 p.m. ET
Part 2: Options for Virtual and Remote Inspections | April 13, 2020, 12:00-1:30 p.m. ET

 

Webinar 2: Online Access to Codes and Standards

Access to codes and standards is critical for the proper conduct of plan review and inspections. According to a recent Code Council survey, 27 percent of jurisdictions only use hard copies of codes and other documents. As many code departments shift to virtual work, they still need access to the codes and standards that underlie their community safety mission. Fortunately, the Code Council provides access to all of the International Codes and many state codes and standards online. This webinar will provide information on how code officials and others can continue to access codes and standards from the Code Council online while working remotely.

Online Access to Codes and Standards | April 17, 2020, 12:00-1:00 p.m. ET

 

Webinar 3: Certifications and Training Update

Education, training and certifications are valuable tools in protecting public safety and professional growth. Remaining up-to-date on best practices is particularly critical as code departments and code officials evolve to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether you are looking for educational opportunities to fill unexpected downtime or need to maintain certifications, the Code Council remains a valuable partner in your professional development. This webinar will cover how the Code Council’s offerings have evolved to meet your needs during the pandemic.

Certifications and Training Update | April 20, 2020, 12:00-1:00 p.m. ET

About the Author
Ryan Colker
Ryan Colker is the vice president of innovation at the International Code Council where he identifies emerging issues in the building industry, including how new technologies can be leveraged by codes and standards, methods to modernize the application of building regulations, and the development of new business strategies that support members and building safety professionals. He also serves as executive director of the Alliance for National and Community Resilience. Most recently, Colker was the vice president of the National Institute of Building Sciences, where he led the institute’s efforts to improve the built environment through collaboration of public and private sectors. Previously, he was the manager of government affairs at ASHRAE.