California Building Code Certification
Certification, as it applies to the building code in California, generally refers to the certifying of individuals who inspect structures of various types. Any building that is existing or under construction must be certified as being safe in all aspects related to safety and health of the potential occupants. California building code certification is mandatory for all structure types and uses.
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Certification Factors
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The requirements for becoming certified as a building code inspector are generally the same in most counties and cities within the United States. This is due to the underlying set of codes applicable to structural design and safety as mandated by the International Code Council (ICC) through the International Building Code. An individual must have a proven understanding and working knowledge of one or more construction trade practices, such as electrical or plumbing experience.
General Certification Requirements
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The educational requirements for building code certification do not generally include an advanced academic background. High school graduation or GED equivalency is sufficient to enroll in code certification programs. Subjects that are covered in these programs will likely include the study of ICC standards, blueprints, construction site procedures and the various processes of report writing that are part of certifying the structural integrity of a building.
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California Certification Oversight
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The Division of State Architect (DSA), under the auspices of the Department of General Services, oversees and administers the certification process in California. An individual who wishes to become a certified building code inspector must pass the Project Inspector exam issued by the DSA. Policy changes as of Jan. 1, 2010 mandate attendance of the Project Inspector Overview class before acceptance to the inspector exam. In addition, those who have taken the previous exams and who may have not passed all its parts are required to take and pass both parts of the new exam.
Special Certification Aspects
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The American Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990 has resulted in several changes that have been addressed by California, as well as all other states. In 2001, the DSA submitted its current edition of the California Building Code to the Department of Justice in order to show compliance with the ADA. Department of Justice responded to this submission in 2004 with their findings, reflecting that the California Building Code met or exceeded the construction and alteration requirements mandated by Title III of the ADA, specifically including the standards for accessible design.
Other Updates
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The interest and expressed desire of the general public in the conservation of natural resources has led to new aspects of building code certification that address these concerns. California is the first state to mandate updated certification regulations for all building construction, known as the CALGREEN Code. This new set of regulations, effective as of Jan. 2011, require reduction of indoor water usage, special irrigation sensors for water use in landscape projects, mandatory inspection of HVAC systems in non-residential building and non-polluting materials for finish work, such as certain wall and floor coverings and paint.
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References
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