Dateline … Hartford:
CODE CHANGES:
Since 2002 the Coalition for the Adoption of a Unified Code (CAUC is an ad-hoc organization representing numerous built environment professions) has worked with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) along with the Connecticut Building Officials Association (CBOA) and Connecticut Fire Marshals Association (CFMA) for the adoption of the ICC (International Codes Council) model codes in Connecticut. Mandated by statute, building and fire safety codes must be periodically replaced with relevant editions and the Connecticut Coalition of Interior Designers (CCID) represents the interior design community in this effort.
As of September 1, 2004, the state will adopt the 2003 International Residential Code in place of the 1995 CABO, the 2002 National Electrical Code in place of the 1999 NEC, and the 2003 International Energy Conservation Code in place of the 1995 Model Energy Code.
Fire marshals expressed early concern about ongoing (post-occupancy) building inspections; the solution created a state Fire Prevention Code in addition to the existing Fire Safety Code. Of enormous benefit to public safety, the new Fire Prevention Code will cover existing buildings and empower fire marshals with tools to prevent a tragedy such as the Rhode Island nightclub fire. NFPA 101 will likely serve as the code while a committee lays the foundation for fire safety standards. With enactment of PA 04-59, it is apparent 2005 will see the adoption of the remaining ICC codes.
This CCID effort places the interior design profession in league with AIA, CBOA, CFMA, contractors, building managers, and other professions as they relate to the administrative branches of Connecticut’s government and as a contributor to the public’s health, safety and welfare in the built environment. Additionally, CCID has paid for an interior design lobbyist to be in attendance at necessary meetings.
Questions? Vox or Fax 203/ 380-9189 or Email ctdesigners@earthlink.net
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY CODES RESOURCES:
The 2004 Connecticut Supplement to the 1999 State Building Code will also be effective September 1, 2004. A downloadable draft will be on the DPS website www.state.ct.us/dps/dfebs/osbi. Click on Technical Services and follow the links to the 2004 Connecticut Supplement. The website also contains information about where to purchase the model codes referenced.
IDEP PROGRAM:
The National Council for Interior Design Qualification continues to develop its Interior Design Experience Program for pre-professionals graduating from FIDER accredited colleges and universities. Refer to the NCIDQ home page www.NCIDQ.org for additional information.