Abstract
This project will promote sustainable building practices with continuing education training for building code officials, design professionals, contractors and suppliers based on the 2012 edition of the International Residential Code and International Building Code.
Objectives
To promote sustainable building practices by offering continuing education training for building code officials, design professionals, contractors and suppliers based on the 2012 edition of the International Residential Code and International Building Code. The instructor for this training will be contracted through the International Code Council. The Smart Home Expo will allow the participants of the training and the general public to become familiar with products that promote sustainable building practices and will provide outreach on mitigation opportunities for existing homes.
Methodology
The City of Orange Beach will partner with the Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter of the International Code Council to offer two days of professional instruction on the transition to the 2012 Residential and Building Code. Concurrent with the training, the City of Orange Beach and Smart Home America will hold a Smart Home Expo that will showcase products and services that promote sustainable construction, green concepts, disaster mitigation and energy efficiency.
Rationale
History has taught us that communities with current and well enforced building codes are better prepared for a disaster; these communities recover more quickly and experience less damage than those without current codes and professional enforcement. This training and expo is designed to educate those involved in the design, construction and inspection of buildings on the transition to the 2012 codes. Homeowners are often unaware of the products and construction methods that promote sustainable construction and mitigation, and the expo will offer all those in attendance a chance to see these innovative products and to learn more about mitigation and how to build a more resilient and sustainable home.