September 2, 2002—The American Institute of Architects (AIA) recently reaffirmed its support for a single set of comprehensive codes to be used throughout the United States. AIA representatives met with International Code Council (ICC) CEO and staff in DC to discuss public policy issues.
The AIA, which the ICC says has played an integral role in the successful adoption of ICC codes across the US, continues to encourage the adoption of performance-based, prescriptive codes to serve the needs of the public. They recommend the uniform adoption of the following codes at all levels of state and local government:
- The International Building Code
- The International Energy Conservation Code
- The International Mechanical Code
- The International Plumbing Code
- The International Property Maintenance Code
- The International Residential Code
- The International Zoning Code and
- The National Electrical Code (published by the National Fire Protection Association)
AIA advocates active participation in the codes and standards development processes for both architects and the public, and supports due process and the consensus process. In a written Public Policy paper, AIA states, “The AIA seeks to strengthen the collective voices of all design professionals in the development and use of codes and standards by encouraging their participation in this process, and coordinating their activities through the establishment of public policies.”
