CODE UPDATE
Significant Code Changes to the 2012 International Building Code
(The information below is excerpted from the Significant Changes to the 2012 International Codes series.)
A modification has been made to Section 1605.2, Load Combinations Using Strength Design or Load and Resistance Factor Design. The strength design load combinations in the 2012 International Building Code (IBC) have been coordinated with Section 2.3 of ASCE 7-10 and expanded to include loads due to fluids, F, and other lateral pressures, H, as well as ice loads. Click to continue reading more on this update to the 2012 IBC.
The Significant Changes to the 2012 International Codes series has been developed by the International Code Council and published by Cengage Learning to assist code officials, architects, engineers and other construction professionals transitioning from the 2009 to the 2012 editions of the International Codes. The series offers a comprehensive yet practical analysis of hundreds of the most critical changes from a very active code development cycle. Each color publication contains: revised code text; a summary of each change listed; in-depth change analysis; and a detailed photo, illustration or table for each change to deepen understanding. Coverage reflects provisions with special significance, including new and innovative design ideas and technologies, modern materials and methods of construction, and current approaches to safety and stability. Authored by ICC code experts, these useful tools are "must-have" guides to the many important changes in the 2012 International Codes.

CODE BASICS

Residential, Based on the 2009 International Residential Code

(The information below is excerpted from the 2009 Building Code Basics series.)

Minimum window-sill height requirements are intended to reduce the number of injuries from falls by children through open windows. Where the sill is greater than 72 inches above the ground and the interior sill height is lower than 24 inches, protection can be achieved by installing a barrier or limiting the dimensions of the window opening. Click to continue reading more on this excerpt from the Building Code Basics: Residential, Based on the 2009 IRC.

The Building Code Basics series based on the 2009 International Building, Residential and Fire Codes explains requirements using non-code language to help you understand the material or explain it to others. Technically accurate and easy to understand, these are the perfect resources for builders, owners, students, plan reviewers, inspectors and permit technicians. Each book contains: 150-plus color diagrams and photos that help readers visualize correct code application; numerous real-world examples; content that pulls together related information from various code sections into one convenient location; and a glossary of code and construction terms to clarify key terminology as it applies to the code.

CODE Q&A

2009 International Fire Code

(The information below is excerpted from the 2009 International Codes Q&A series.)

A question regarding installation of a standby power system for ventilation is raised and discussed: Q: Is it the intent of this section to require the installation of a standby power system to maintain the ventilation system for "a sufficient time thereafter to allow vapors from drying coated articles and finishing material residue to be exhausted" in the event of a power failure? Click to get an answer to this code question by reading more on this excerpt from the 2009 IFC Q&A.

Get expert answers to hundreds of the most frequently asked real-world questions. The 2009 Q&A series will assist engineers, architects, inspectors, fire and building officials, and plans examiners with finding answers to common code questions that arise during design, plan review, construction and daily code enforcement. Features: many new questions and answers; detailed photos, tables and illustrations that provide a clear understanding of both the intent and meaning of the code text; the relevant code section printed before the question and answer for easy reference; and discussion on a wide variety of topics including: accessibility, fire resistive construction, means of egress, building planning, foundations, fire protection systems, hazardous materials, plumbing and mechanical systems, prescriptive compliance method, determination of substantial damage, and much more.