Text Box: Text Box: Text Box: quality. Text Box: On January 1, 2003 the International Building Code (IBC) will be implemented in New York State as the only acceptable building code. Any project which is permitted in 2003 will fall under this code. The International Codes are the product of many years’ effort on the parts of engineers, architects, and building code organizations to create a universal building code in the United States. The fundamental benefit of a universal code is to create a level playing field in an industry which can no longer be characterized as regional. These codes represent a substantial change in the requirements of A/E design firms for construction projects which involve a building. AES has spent considerable training time during the last two years in Text Box: order to make this transition smoothly. Our designers and partners have attended seminars on code enforcement and the structural provisions of the IBC. One major variation from the current New York State Building Code is the treatment of seismic loads for our region. Under the IBC, soil conditions and occupancy classifications can place a Plattsburgh building into a seismic zone similar to what one would design for in California. The earthquake this year centered near Plattsburgh lends a great deal of credibility to this increased focus on seismic design. In order to meet the new code requirements, Architects and Engineers will be required to provide structural design parameters including seismic design category on their drawings. Text Box: AES has prepared for the coming change in the New York State Building Code and has completed plans for several projects which will be permitted in 2003 under the new code. The building industry will see many changes as a result of these codes and we anticipate a direct benefit to our clients as well as an increase in our capabilities as a design firm. In departing from the current regional code, the International Code takes advantage of the research, experience, and expertise of the entire nation’s engineering community. Contact AES if you have any questions about the effect of the IBC on your projects. Text Box: The International Building Code Takes Effect in 2003.