Building and Fire Safety Priorities: Insights from ICC President Stuart Tom

Summary In this conversation, Tim Spears interviews Stuart Tom, President of the Board of Directors for the International Code Council, about the evolving landscape of building and fire safety. They discuss Stuart's background in engineering and his roles as a chief building official and fire marshal. They also explore the integration of modern technologies into building codes, the importance of collaboration, and the challenges faced in addressing fire risks and emerging trends. Stuart emphasizes the need for personal responsibility and a shared commitment to protecting communities. In this conversation, Stuart Tom discusses the importance of fire safety and the role of ICC in promoting safe building practices. They highlight the risks associated with lithium-ion batteries and the need for better education and awareness. Stuart also shares his priorities as President, including the expansion of ICC's services and the focus on international growth. They emphasize the collaborative nature of the code development process and the importance of mentorship in shaping future leaders in the industry. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Bowling Shirts 03:01 Busy Schedules and Travel 04:04 Attending the Congressional Fire Service Institute 06:17 Background and Career Path 10:13 Involvement with the International Code Council 12:50 Roles and Responsibilities on the Board of Directors 18:58 Changes in Building and Fire Safety Standards 23:09 Emerging Trends in Building Safety and Fire Prevention 28:45 Common Challenges and Jurisdictional Approaches 35:10 The Risks of Lithium-Ion Batteries 37:24 Electric Vehicles and Building Safety 38:52 Expanding ICC's Services 53:32 Collaboration in the Code Development Process 01:06:57 Mentorship and Future Leaders in Fire Safety Keywords building safety, fire safety, engineering, International Code Council, modern technologies, collaboration, personal responsibility, shared responsibility, fire safety, building practices, lithium-ion batteries, education, awareness, ICC, services, international growth, code development process, mentorship Takeaways Building and fire safety codes are evolving to include more performance-based standards and integrate modern technologies. There is a need for personal responsibility and a shared commitment to protecting communities. Challenges include addressing fire risks associated with emerging technologies and ensuring the safety of dense construction and multi-family housing. Collaboration and education are key in shaping safer communities and addressing evolving safety concerns. Lithium-ion batteries pose unique hazards and it is important to differentiate between different applications, such as energy storage systems, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics. Education and awareness are crucial in preventing fire risks associated with lithium-ion batteries, and efforts should be made to inform users about the potential dangers. The International Code Council (ICC) is more than just a code publishing company and offers a wide range of services, including modular construction, testing and certification, and evaluation of products. ICC aims to ensure that materials, equipment, and technologies used in buildings are safe and reliable, and collaborates with governments and organizations to achieve this goal. The code development process is a consensus-based approach that involves stakeholders from various backgrounds, and participation in this process can help shape the future of building codes. Mentorship and encouragement are important in developing future leaders in the industry, and individuals should seize opportunities to get involved and contribute to their local chapters.