California has some of the most complex and stringent building codes in the United States, primarily within Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations. These codes are designed to ensure public health, safety, and welfare, and they cover a wide range of building-related issues, including structural, electrical, mechanical, plumbing, energy efficiency, and accessibility. For facilities managers in the state, navigating and maintaining compliance with these codes is crucial. Here is a basic overview of best practices to consider for your facility.
Understand Title 24: The California Building Standards Code (Title 24) is a comprehensive set of regulations. It’s essential for facilities managers to have a solid understanding of its structure and the specific parts that apply to their facilities. Title 24 incorporates and amends national model codes, so familiarity with both is important. Key parts include the California Building Code (CBC), California Electrical Code (CEC), California Mechanical Code (CMC), California Plumbing Code (CPC), California Energy Code (CEC), California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), and California Existing Buildings Code (CEBC).
Stay Updated: California building codes are updated every three years, with an intervene update at the halfway mark, with supplements and errata changes. Facilities managers must have a system in place to track these changes and ensure that their facilities remain compliant. Subscriptions to code updates, membership in relevant professional organizations, and regular communication with local building departments are essential.
Maintain Accurate Documentation: Detailed and accurate records of all building systems, inspections, permits, and modifications are vital. This documentation serves as proof of compliance and is crucial during inspections, audits, and any future renovations or modifications. Computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS) can be very helpful in managing this information.
Regular Inspections and Maintenance: Implement a schedule for regular inspections and maintenance of all building systems to ensure they continue to meet code requirements. This includes fire safety systems, electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC, and accessibility features. Proactive maintenance can prevent code violations and more costly repairs down the line.
Work with Qualified Professionals: When any construction, renovation, or modification work is performed, it’s essential to work with licensed and qualified contractors, architects, and engineers who are knowledgeable about California building codes. This ensures that the work is done correctly and complies with all applicable regulations.
Develop a Code Compliance Program: Facilities should have a formal code compliance program that outlines the procedures for ensuring ongoing adherence to building codes. This program should include:
- A designated person or team responsible for code compliance.
- Procedures for tracking code changes.
- Schedules for regular inspections and maintenance.
- Protocols for documenting compliance.
- Training for staff on relevant code requirements.
Local Amendments: Be aware that local jurisdictions (cities and counties) may have their own amendments to the California Building Standards Code. These amendments can be found in a jurisdiction municipal code. Facilities managers must be familiar with both state and local requirements to the currently adopted building codes, keeping in mind that the most restrictive code and/or local amendment to a code section will be the code to adhere to.
Jason Pasiut, MPA, CBO, CASp, is an operations manager with Bureau Veritas, overseeing plan review and field inspection services across California’s San Diego County and surrounding regions. A retired U.S. Army veteran and certified building official with over two decades of experience in code compliance, he holds multiple certifications through the International Code Council, is a Certified Access Specialist with the California Division of the State Architect, and is known for fostering cross-functional collaboration between jurisdictions, contractors, and design teams.