Innovation leads to safer and more efficient buildings

Washington,
D.C. – Building Safety Month comes to a close with week 5, which focuses on
how advances in technology are paving the way for safer, more resilient homes.
This week’s theme, “Innovations in Safety,” explores technologies that are
being implemented to create more efficient buildings, while also looking ahead
to how new innovations can help ensure a safer future.

One of the new
technologies that is poised to transform the industry is three-dimensional (3D)
automated construction technology. The advantages of using 3D technology in
construction include reduced costs, faster production and less waste.
Currently, ICC Evaluation Services (a member of the Code Council’s family of
companies) is working with a leading 3D construction company to develop
building code compliance for one-story, single-unit, residential dwelling walls
constructed using 3D technology.

Another example are drones, which are
increasingly being used on construction sites to maintain security and observe building
damage after a natural disaster. One day in the near future, technicians may be
able to use drones to oversee tasks such as painting and masonry, which will
increase worker productivity.

Innovative plumbing technologies are available
to help homeowners and communities better conserve water, which are
particularly important in light of recent droughts in the U.S. and around the
world. For example, the 2018 International Plumbing Code incorporates new
technologies including non-water urinals and detailed engineered designs that
permit the installation of smaller, more precise water usage and water drainage
systems, resulting in the savings of millions of gallons of water.

“Emerging technologies will help the building industry
become more productive, efficient and eco-friendly,” said Code Council Chief
Executive Officer Dominic Sims, CBO. “We are committed to developing codes and
standards that reflect innovations in building technologies and enable them to
become more widely adopted.”

The Gypsum Association, one of the sponsors of week 5, supports the Code Council’s commitment to innovation and new technologies. “Building Safety Month is an opportunity to celebrate the Code Council’s work and draw attention to strategies that make our buildings safer, including the important role gypsum panel products play in passive fire resistance,” said Gypsum Association Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director Stephen H. Meima, MBA, APR, LEED Green Associate. “We are continuously working to innovate and improve our products, and commend the Code Council for shining a light on new building technologies.”

Visit
the Code Council’s website to discover how innovations
in building safety can save homeowners time and money. Join the conversation on
social media using #BuildingSafety365.

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About the International Code Council

The International
Code Council is a
member-focused association dedicated to developing model codes and standards
used in the design, build and compliance process to construct safe,
sustainable, affordable and resilient structures. Most U.S. communities and
many global markets choose the International Codes.

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