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Letters to the Editor: Learn How the Codes Work
Dear Editor:
In reply to the Aug. 21 letter from Spike Rumley, he is wrong on both counts.
First, the code development process has never taken anything away from local officials. They are free to adopt the code as published or re-write any or all of it, as they so desire. The code development process is open to anyone who wants to take the time to participate, at both the national and local level.
Second, nothing in the published code “reduces or eliminates the ability of professionals to develop design standards for specific projects.” Mr. Rumley should review 2003 International Building Code section 104.11, “Alternative materials, designs and methods of construction and equipment,” as well as the International Code Council’s “2003 Performance Code for Buildings & Facilities.”
Mr. Rumley’s statement that “Code officials like tighter controls,” is not entirely true. Yes, we code officials do have our own opinions, but code officials are required to follow the laws put in place by the elected officials, not their own opinions.
And contrary to the statement that most construction professionals “are threatened and intimidated as a result of poorly drafted codes,” most of the construction professionals I know are afraid of escalating materials prices, not codes. They can take classes or seminars to learn codes, but material prices are way beyond their control.
Lastly, if someone is not happy with the code development process, they need to jump in and help change it. Here’s the ICC Web link where they can find out how it works: www.iccsafe.org/cs/codes/
Sincerely,
Dennis G. Nolan, Building Inspector IV
Nevada State Public Works Board
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