flexiblefullpage
billboard
interstitial1
catfish1
Currently Reading

Changing building codes to protect against mass shootings at odds with other safety measures

Codes and Standards

Changing building codes to protect against mass shootings at odds with other safety measures

Fire and other emergencies require getting people out quickly, not locking down sections.


By Peter Fabris, Contributing Editor | December 21, 2015
Changing building codes to protect against mass shootings at odds with other safety measures

Photo: Andreas H/Creative Commons.

The recent mass shooting at a Planned Parenthood Clinic in Colorado Springs, Colo., prompted an article in the Colorado Springs Independent asking if building codes could reduce the carnage in such incidents.

Building codes have focused on fire safety with interior corridor doors being easy for anyone to open. This strategy is at odds with what law enforcement would like to do—close down portions of buildings by blocking corridors in order to isolate a shooter or potential victims.

Locking down parts of a building could do more harm than good in certain circumstances. If corridors are locked to prevent a shooter from gaining access to one section of the building, it might prevent people from escaping.

Electronic locking devices might be viable options for some buildings. Codes allow for these in sensitive areas such as in hospitals' newborn nurseries, which often are located behind locked doors to guard against kidnappers.

Related Stories

Codes and Standards | Nov 9, 2017

NIBS, NBI issue guidance document to help communities achieve energy goals

Outcome-based codes compliance path looks at building’s actual performance.

Codes and Standards | Nov 7, 2017

Underwriters Laboratories launches wellness certification

First certification program that verifies products’ compliance with the WELL Building Standard.

Codes and Standards | Nov 6, 2017

Registration now open for Canada’s first Zero Carbon Building (ZCB) program

Standard is designed to be applicable across many types of new and existing buildings.

Codes and Standards | Nov 6, 2017

AIA releases new architect commissioning document

It will be used with the standard form for owner/consultant contracts.

Codes and Standards | Nov 2, 2017

ASHRAE releases new version of Thermal Comfort Standard

Update includes calculations from direct solar radiation.

Codes and Standards | Nov 1, 2017

Drone users can now get instant authorization from FAA

Skyward offers app to receive permission for low altitude flights.

Codes and Standards | Oct 31, 2017

Real estate giant launches global tenant health and wellness certification initiative

Tishman Speyer will use Fitwel health certification system to guide building improvements.

Codes and Standards | Oct 30, 2017

AIA revises architect scope documents in latest contract form release

Design-bid-build forms last updated in 2007.

Codes and Standards | Oct 26, 2017

Boston’s Old South Church asks tower developer for $19 million for casting shade

Request highlights ongoing conflict between developers and residents over right to sunshine.

Codes and Standards | Oct 24, 2017

Asphalt roofing design guide now available in digital form

Recently updated Modified Bitumen Design Guide can be viewed on smartphones and tablets.

boombox1
boombox2
native1

More In Category

Reconstruction & Renovation

Movement to protect historic buildings raises sharp criticism

While the movement to preserve historic buildings has widespread support, it also has some sharp critics with well-funded opposition groups springing up in recent years. Some opponents are linked to the Stand Together Foundation, founded and bankrolled by the Koch family’s conservative philanthropic organization, according to a column in Governing magazine.




halfpage1

Most Popular Content

  1. 2021 Giants 400 Report
  2. Top 150 Architecture Firms for 2019
  3. 13 projects that represent the future of affordable housing
  4. Sagrada Familia completion date pushed back due to coronavirus
  5. Top 160 Architecture Firms 2021