The International Code Council approved building code changes based on recommendations from the National Institute of Standards and Technology's investigation of the EF-5 tornado that struck Joplin, Mo., on May 22, 2011.
The changes are aimed at protecting schools and their related high-occupancy buildings from the most powerful tornadoes. The updates apply to the most tornado-prone regions in the U.S., from northern Texas to central Minnesota, and from western Oklahoma to western Pennsylvania.
The updates will require enhanced protection for new school buildings and additions to buildings on existing school campuses. They will also apply to facilities associated with schools where people regularly assemble including gymnasiums, theaters, and community centers.
Storm shelters must be provided that protect all occupants from storms with wind speeds of 250 mph--the top intensity category, EF-5, on the Enhanced Fujita Scale. Storm shelter requirements will be published in ICC's 2018 International Building Code and 2018 International Existing Building Code.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Oct 11, 2017
Data, transparency are keys to next steps in green building, says USGBC chief
Monitoring and comparing performance are critical to advancing sustainability goals.
Codes and Standards | Oct 10, 2017
New guidelines for quality control on application of membrane roof systems released
NRCA document provides guidance for on-site evaluation.
Codes and Standards | Oct 9, 2017
New app calculates maximum allowable heights for building occupancy types, classes of construction
The app streamlines compliance on various types of construction.
Codes and Standards | Oct 5, 2017
California lawmakers pass bill that requires GCs to pay wages of sub employees if subs fail to pay
The measure will go into effect in January if the governor signs it.
Codes and Standards | Oct 4, 2017
Ambitious but realistic increase in clean energy would cut GHG emissions by 80% in the U.S.
NRDC report says goal can be achieved with existing tools.
Codes and Standards | Oct 3, 2017
Reducing duct leakage is focus on latest green building standards updates
ASHRAE 189.1 broadens testing requirements to include more types of ducts.
Codes and Standards | Oct 2, 2017
Nationwide retrofit strategy in Canada could cut 51% of emissions from large buildings
The roadmap provides government and industry with a targeted plan.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2017
Resources available for new OSHA respirable crystalline silica regulation
NRCA offers compliance tools for contractors.
Codes and Standards | Sep 28, 2017
New tool compares HVAC system efficiency
IAPMO and Hydronics Industry Alliance unveil BEST to evaluate systems in early design phase.
Codes and Standards | Sep 26, 2017
Anti-drone technology can ward off unauthorized drone flights
The technology can be used to prevent terrorist attacks and spying.