Kevin McOsker of the International Code Council participated in a Q&A session with us, discussing building safety and highlighting some of the most frequent safety errors in construction.
Kevin McOsker, Vice President of Technical Services at the International Code Council, participated in a Q&A session with us, discussing the importance of building safety and the frequent safety mistakes made in construction. McOsker shared valuable insights on the significance of safety measures in construction and how we can all contribute to improving safety standards.
FCP: Why are building codes essential for safety in construction?
KM: Building codes are fundamental to public safety. They ensure the safety of the spaces where we live, work, and socialize by addressing potential risks like fires, severe weather, and structural failures. These codes are meticulously developed by experts and are regularly updated to incorporate the latest advancements in building safety, technology, and human behavior. With the ever-evolving complexity of construction, it’s vital for projects to follow these codes to ensure safety, sustainability, and resilience.
FCP: What steps need to be taken to improve building safety?
KM: Improving building safety requires public awareness, support from the community, and backing from elected officials for proper training, staffing for building and fire departments, and adoption of up-to-date codes. It’s essential for model codes to continually evolve, integrating lessons from past events and advancements in building sciences. These updated codes must be effectively adopted by local, state, tribal, and territorial governments, ensuring they have the necessary resources. Public education is crucial, as building codes are the unsung protectors of public safety. When codes work, their impact often goes unnoticed, yet they play a critical role in safeguarding the public.
FCP: What are some of the common misconceptions or mistakes when it comes to building safety?
KM: A common misconception is that people in communities with outdated codes believe their codes are up-to-date. There’s also a tendency to prioritize disaster response over proactive measures like code adoption and enforcement. This disconnect between actual and perceived safety is a significant barrier. Ensuring that building codes are adopted, funded, and supported by local officials is essential for effective disaster preparedness.
FCP: How can construction contractors improve jobsite safety today?
KM: The International Building Code provides safety guidelines for construction sites, which contractors should follow to protect their teams. These include proper storage of materials to avoid hazards, ensuring roofs can support the weight of materials, maintaining exit routes and fire protection systems, and removing waste in a way that prevents injuries. Additionally, fire prevention plans and site safety protocols are crucial for new construction and renovations. The importance of these safety measures has been highlighted by the increasing number of large fires on construction sites.
FCP: What are some of the recent updates to building codes, and why do they matter?
KM: The Code Council strongly advocates for adopting and enforcing modern building codes. The 2024 International Codes (I-Codes) include several critical updates. For example, the 2024 International Building Code introduces provisions for tornado resistance, while both the IBC and International Residential Code have updated snow load standards. There are also new provisions addressing the hazards associated with energy storage technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries. The 2024 International Energy Conservation Code improves energy efficiency by 6.5%, benefiting both the environment and cost savings. Moreover, the International Mechanical Code now includes considerations for A2L refrigerants, which are more environmentally friendly, and the International Plumbing Code has enhanced water conservation measures. These updates are crucial as they promote safer, more sustainable building practices.
