Building Safety Month champions the vital role of modern building codes and safety standards throughout May. This international campaign raises awareness about the structural integrity and safety of the places where we live, work, and play. Get involved by learning about local codes, advocating for stronger standards, and ensuring your own property meets safety guidelines.
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Expected Building Safety Month Deals
Throughout Building Safety Month, the focus shifts from commercial deals to crucial awareness and fundraising efforts. Organizations like the International Code Council (ICC) and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) partner with corporations to promote educational initiatives and host events. Expect to see donation-matching programs from building supply retailers such as The Home Depot and Lowe’s, as well as community workshops on home safety and disaster preparedness. Insurance providers like State Farm often run campaigns highlighting the importance of proper building maintenance and hazard mitigation. Visit the official ICC website for a calendar of events and ways to contribute to building a safer world.
Platform Guide for Building Safety Month
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #BuildingSafetyMonth. Share insights on code compliance and industry best practices.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #BuildingSafetyMonth. Join conversations with building professionals and share safety tips.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #BuildingSafetyMonth. Post photos of local safety initiatives and community events.
Building Safety Month Hero
Frances Perkins
History of Building Safety Month
Building Safety Month aims to raise awareness about the importance of building codes so that the general public has all the necessary info to ensure the safety of their homes, workplaces, and more.
While the phrase ‘building codes’ may sound like a modern concept, it can be traced back to about 2000 B.C. during the reign of Hammurabi, the founder of the Babylonian Empire.
In the U.S., the first building codes were established in 1625 to address fire safety and specific materials as coverings for roofs. In 1630, Boston scrapped the use of chimneys made from wood and roof coverings made of thatch. And, during the late 1770s, George Washington recommended that area- and height limitations be imposed on wood-frame buildings in Columbia district plans. 1788 was the year that saw the first formal building code written in the U.S. (in old Salem, a place notorious for its fires). More U.S. cities started to establish building codes in the early 1800s and, finally, New Orleans became the first city in 1865 to enact a law that required the inspection of public places.
Thomas Jefferson and George Washington encouraged the development of building regulations to offer minimum standards to building residents for health and safety. Exit requirements became more prominent by 1862. These were followed by plumbing regulations in around 1880, and elevator and hoist regulations in 1883. It was during the 1880s that steel frames emerged and paved the way for tall buildings and skyscrapers.
Building Safety Month timeline
The Building Office and Code Administration (BOCA) is formed to develop the U.S.'s first national building code.
A group called the International Council of Building Officials develops the Uniform Building Code, mostly for the western parts of the U.S.
All the building code groups join hands to form the Council of American Building Officials (CABO) and draft one universal building code model for the U.S.
The Council of American Building Officials is consolidated into the International Code Council.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Building Safety Month
Local businesses, especially those in construction, real estate, and home services, can actively participate in Building Safety Month. Host free educational seminars on common home hazards or the importance of obtaining proper permits for renovations. Offer discounted safety inspections or energy audits throughout May to encourage proactive maintenance. Real estate agencies can share resources on understanding property disclosures and the benefits of code-compliant homes, while hardware stores can highlight essential safety products and offer workshops on their correct installation.
Building Safety Month FAQs
When is Building Safety Month?
In 2027, Building Safety Month will be observed from Saturday, May 1, to Monday, May 31. The entire month is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of safe and sustainable construction practices.
What is the primary goal of Building Safety Month?
Building Safety Month’s core objective is to promote the understanding and implementation of robust building safety standards. It emphasizes that strong codes are vital for community resilience against natural disasters and everyday hazards.
Who organizes Building Safety Month?
The International Code Council (ICC) spearheads Building Safety Month, collaborating with professionals from the building, design, and safety communities. Their collective efforts promote events and initiatives globally.
Why are building codes so important?
These comprehensive regulations are vital for public safety, preventing collapses, mitigating fire risks, and ensuring buildings can withstand environmental stressors. Codes evolve to incorporate new technologies and lessons from past disasters.
How to Observe Building Safety Month
Spread awareness
Reach out to more people and make them understand the importance of building codes and standards. It is crucial for the building of any kind of space, be it for living, learning, or anything else.
Promote better living standards
It is important that any space or building follows the building codes. Read up on and learn about the codes and promote them in your neighborhood.
Spread awareness on social media
Use your social media platforms to spread the word about Building Safety Month and building codes. Share articles and use the hashtag #BuildingSafety or #BuildingSafetyMonth.
5 Facts About Building Safety That You Should Know
Life inside buildings
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Policy, 90% of our lives are spent inside buildings.
Huge energy consumption
Buildings account for 40% of greenhouse gas emissions and 40% of total energy consumption in the U.S.
Fires of history
The great fires in the history of mankind that have led to the development of building codes include the Great Fire of Rome (64 A.D.), the Great Fire of London (1666), the Great Chicago Fire(1871), the Great Baltimore Fire (1904), and the Cleveland Clinic Fire (1929).
Fire protection
The MGM Grand fire in Las Vegas in 1980 and the Station Nightclub fire of Rhode Island in 2003 led to the addition of fire prevention systems like sprinkler systems, exit lights, and more.
I-Codes
The International Code Council has a set of 15 model codes specified on the basis of geographic locations and these are collectively called ‘I-Codes.’
Why Building Safety Month Is Significant
It spreads awareness
Building Safety Month makes more and more people aware of the importance of safe living standards. It also educates them about the building codes.
It adds value to life
Building safety should not be ignored as it can lead to the loss of lives. This month stresses the importance of the safety and security of buildings for safer and better living.
It helps those in need
Some people are living or working in spaces that do not meet the building code standards. This month can help them by raising awareness about this cause and ultimately provide them with a better space to live and work.
Social Media Tips for Building Safety Month
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