Blog

The International Building Code (IBC), which establishes standards for maintaining public health, safety, and welfare in the design and construction of buildings, is updated every three years by the International Code Council (ICC). The current edition has been updated in several ways to reflect changing technologies, materials, and products as well as new dangers. 

Sections covering the potential impact of inclement weather conditions and natural disasters like snow, rain, wind, and earthquakes now include building codes designed to protect against tornadoes, based on National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) research.  

What are these changes, and why are they necessary? What do they mean for the construction industry? 

The Threat of Tornadoes

The Joplin tornado, an EF-5 twister that hit Joplin, Missouri, in 2011, was the impetus for a long-term study by the NIST. The deadliest single tornado on record in the U.S., the Joplin tornado killed 161 people, left more than 1,000 injured, and carved a path of destruction that took out hospitals, schools, commercial structures, and homes. 

Mere hours after the tornado struck, the NIST began a research project to study the effects of the tornado and determine the best way to avoid future destruction on that scale.  

The resulting report on the incident, issued in 2014, included plans to make buildings more resistant to the effects of tornadoes. The next step was to change building codes in keeping with the plan — a challenging process that would take a decade to complete. 

This process began with further research on the effects of tornado wind and flying debris on structures. Next, the NIST developed standards based on its research to update the IBC. 

Changes to the IBC

What are the new IBC standards concerning tornado load requirements? The technical standards are extensive, but they largely pertain to the wind speeds and types of wind load (straight line versus tornado) new buildings must withstand. 

These distinctions are important because while the force of a strong, straight-line wind might shatter windows and doors, tornadoes also have uplift, which can tear off roofing or launch objects into the air and buildings. Accounting for such variations affects building design, preferred materials, and other factors meant to protect against the unique forces and damage tornadoes create. 

The Future of Building

The major impact of adding tornado standards to the IBC is that moving forward, building codes will change to reflect these new standards. Engineers and builders will be tasked with finding better ways to design and construct buildings that can withstand the specific harm caused by tornadoes. 

Staying Up to Date With Changing Laws and Codes

While changing codes can leave industry professionals scrambling to learn new rules for operation, anyone who designs and builds structures wants them to be as safe as possible. Licensing and renewal programs designed for working professionals will incorporate education on changes to the IBC so they can remain up to date with the latest industry developments and standards. 

Contact RocketCert today to prepare for contractor exams in your state or complete needed continuing education for license renewal.