The International Code Council launched a new online resource, the Value of the Code Official toolkit. This toolkit helps government officials, Code Council members and others build awareness for the code official’s significant role within their communities.

Code officials review plans and conduct inspections to guarantee every building constructed follows the community’s codes and standards. Structures constructed in accordance with updated building codes are more likely to withstand disasters, saving lives and reducing the cost and time needed for rebuilding. The most widely utilized and adopted set of building safety codes in the U.S., the International Codes, result in the highest level of building safety in the industrial world.

This new resource also encourages students and young professionals to join the industry’s pipeline of qualified professionals. According to a 2014 study, the building industry will experience a loss of 80 percent of the existing skilled workforce over the next 15 years. Retirements combined with a growing demand for skilled labor make the booming construction industry a tremendous opportunity for young adults entering the workforce.

“The Value of the Code Official toolkit builds on the Code Council’s innovative work through the High School Technical Training Program, the Military Families Building Safety Program and our other Safety 2.0 programs,” said Code Council Board President Jay Elbettar, P.E. “In the wake of the recent destructive hurricane season and widespread California wildfires, we continue to highlight the critical role of the code official in creating safe buildings and resilient communities.”

The Value of the Code Official toolkit includes:

• Talking points.
• Presentation slides with notes for the presenter.
• A flyer for electronic and print distribution.
• A video – Code Officials: Building Safety Today for a Stronger Tomorrow.