Back row left to right: Jason Kliwinski, AIA and LEED Certified Professional, Michael Winka of the NJ DEP, Cam Johnson, Paul Drago, AIA. Front row left to right: Jeff Cotton of Interface and Raymond Nadaskay, AIA

AIA-NJ Architects Learn About New International Building Code

The American Institute of Architects of New Jersey (AIANJ) held a seminar this week to introduce the new International Building Code (IBC) to AIA members, code officials and other interested construction professionals. The seminar provided architects and other attendees with a greater understanding of how to correctly apply the code in their private, corporate or government practices. The educational event was held Tuesday, November 19, at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark; Wednesday, November 20, at Mega Movies in East Brunswick; and Thursday, November 21, at the Quality Inn in Maple Shade, giving an opportunity to our members to learn about the new code in their specific geographical area. "Building codes are adopted and enforced by local government agencies to regulate the design, construction alteration and repair of buildings with the sole purpose of protecting the safety, health and welfare of the public," said William M. Brown, III, AIA, who along with the chapter¹s first Legislative Day has made continuing education seminars like this one a primary focus of his administration. The IBC is an important document developed by the International Code Council (ICC), it is the first unified model code in U.S. history, instituted in 2000. Individual states have or will adopt this code with local amendments. Jerome L. Eben, AIA who serves as chair for the Continuing Education Committee, along with Charles Spitz, AIA, coordinated the seminar. William W. Stewart, FAIA, an architect and engineer from St. Louis, Missouri, was the featured lecturer. He has been active in writing and interpreting building codes since 1979. The most important aspects of the IBC were covered, such as categories of use, occupancy, types of construction according to the degree of fire resistance and combustibility. The code also provides guidelines for setting limits on building height and area. The architects assembled also discussed egress requirements, focusing on the disabled and others who need special assistance in evacuating a building safely. The seminars were very well attended with more than a third of the membership in total taking advantage of this important seminar. David Del Vecchio, AIA who will become President in the New Year has been busy choosing his committee chairs and has asked Jerry to stay on in his capacity. Along with Charlie, they will continue to design additional courses for the members to take advantage of, so please check the Web Page and watch your mail, because these popular events close out fast!