- 14 March 2008 -
FRP update for building code
THE AMERICAN Composites Manufacturers Association (ACMA) has been working to introduce fibre reinforced plastic (FRP) composites into the International Building Code (IBC) to promote the acceptance of composites in building construction.
During the International Code Council (ICC) public hearings in February, the Fire Safety Committee voted to accept ACMA’s proposal as the initial step to including language introducing FRP composites into the IBC and outlining the proper use of FRP used in non-structural applications.
ACMA representatives had attended the ICC’s public hearings in Palm Springs, California, to represent the composites industry’s position on updating the IBC. These hearings, attended by many building code officials in the USA, are intended to initially review and consider changes to the building code.
An ACMA team of speakers led by past President Bill Kreysler (Kreysler & Associates) and Board Member Pete Emrich (MFG) spoke in favour of the submitted proposal.
“This is a major step forward in getting composites treated the same as traditional materials,” says Kreysler “This has the potential of growing the architectural market for ACMA members.”
After a public comment period of several months when code officials and members of the ICC are allowed to submit amendments to the draft code changes, the entire code body will vote for approval at a public meeting in September. If no comments are received to the ACMA proposal, the language will be automatically adapted into the 2009 edition of the IBC.
“This is a great initial step for ACMA,” says ACMA President John Tickle. “Getting proper treatment and recognition for composites is critical to the continued growth of the industry.”
ACMA; www.acmanet.org
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