International Code Council - Experts & Thought Leaders

As they head into a new year, the future of government regulations affecting environmentally friendly building practices is up for grabs. For green building proponents, however, the White House is not the be-all, end-all when it comes to industry practice. In fact, states like California, Illinois, and Washington, as well as industry organizations such as ASHRAE and the International Code Council (ICC) continue to push for building standards that prioritize energy efficiency. Proper air distribution Builder community has come to better understand the significant role that proper air distribution Nowhere is this more apparent than in some of the changes to industry standards that are coming down the pike for duct testing and allowable leakage rates. Over the past several years, the builder community has come to better understand the significant role that proper air distribution plays in overall building performance and these changes clearly reflect this new understanding. ASHRAE 90.1 Standard When it comes to commercial buildings, ASHRAE 90.1 standard is considered by many to be the industry bible for energy code compliance, providing minimum requirements for energy-efficient designs for buildings except for low-rise residential buildings. First published in 1975 (ASHRAE 90), this guide addresses the energy-efficiency requirements for the design, materials, and equipment used in nearly all new construction and renovation projects. The standard has been tweaked and updated numerous times over the past forty years or so and, in 1999, was placed on continuous maintenance to reflect the increased adoption rate of new technologies and fluctuating energy prices. Latest edition of the ASHRAE 90.1 standard ASHRAE 90.1 standard hasvkey updates to the units regarding air duct design, testing and performance While it is developed by ASHRAE committee members, the code is typically adopted by IECC (International Energy Conservation Code), IGCC (International Green Construction Code) and other standards bodies as well. The latest edition of ASHRAE 90.1 standard includes key updates to the section regarding air duct design, testing and performance. There are two significant changes they should know about: Amount of Duct To Be Tested It’s not enough to install ductwork and simply assume it’s good to go. If the ductwork doesn’t meet minimum standards for leakage, the performance of the entire HVAC system – and the building itself – could be in jeopardy. Currently, ASHRAE 90.1 recommends that 25% of a newly installed duct system be tested for leakage. If results show that the leakage rate exceeds acceptable levels, duct sealers are called in to fix the problem, followed by another retesting of 25% of the duct system. Upcoming version of the standards guide A re-sealing and retesting of the same 25% may eventually yield passable results Unfortunately, this practice is vulnerable to abuse. A re-sealing and retesting of the same 25% may eventually yield passable results, but it certainly doesn’t ensure that the system as a whole meets acceptable standards for tightness. To correct this problem, the upcoming version of the standards guide recommends an escalated rate of testing. In this scenario, 25% of the duct is tested for leakage. If it does not pass, then resealing is performed and then 50% of the duct system must be tested. If results again show unacceptable leakage rates, than 100% of the duct system must be retested until the problem is solved. Overall efficiency of the HVAC system “With this new standard, getting it right the first time is critical,” said Neal Walsh, senior vice president, Aeroseal. “Having to re-seal and re-test increasingly larger portions of the duct system can easily turn into a time- and labor-intensive proposition. The escalated testing process will help ensure that adequate attention is paid to duct sealing from the start, and that, in turn, will have a direct impact on the overall efficiency of the HVAC system.” Amount of Allowable Leakage Past versions of the ASHRAE 90.1 code allowed for different HVAC system leakage rates depending upon the size of the system and other variables. The upcoming version changes all that, making leakage rates tighter and less ambiguous: The maximum system leakage rate will now be 5%. This is everything from the ductwork to the air handler and all the associated add-on equipment. The maximum acceptable leakage rate for the ducts alone will now be 3%. Supply and return ductwork leaking to/from the outdoors will now have a maximum acceptable leakage rate of 2%. Aerosol duct sealing technology The new version of 90.1 will also specify aerosol duct sealing technology as an option for duct sealing In addition to these changes, the new version of 90.1 will also, for the first time, specify aerosol duct sealing technology as an option for duct sealing. “These updates really reflect the industry’s increased understanding of the critical role that duct performance plays in overall building performance,” said Walsh. “It also highlights the fact that taking a whole-system approach is vital to achieving maximum energy efficiency.” ASHRAE 189.1 Standard The newly found respect for ductwork that’s reflected in the newly revised ASHRAE 90.1 standards is also visible in ASHRAE 189.1 standard, the organization’s standards guide for high-performance buildings. Completed this past February, the updated manual includes new guidelines regarding the type of duct system to be tested. In the past, ASHRAE 189.1 specified that only ducts operating at >3 IWG (inch water gauge) of pressure be subject to testing. The new code specifies duct testing for any ductwork operating at >2 IWG. “With increased interest in green building, more commercial properties than ever before are using energy-efficient low-pressure ducts,” said Walsh. “The updated standard makes it clear that duct leaks – even those in low-pressure systems – can have a substantial impact on energy consumption.” ASHRAE SPC215 and SMACNA Guidelines SMACNA guidelines have relied on calculations to determine maximum permissible leakage rates Previous industry guidelines pertaining to air distribution systems primarily focused on what to test and what results are necessary for passage. ASHRAE SPC215 takes duct testing to a new level by specifying the methods of duct testing to be used to determine leakage. Scheduled for release the beginning of the new year, ASHRAE SPC215 is expected to adopt a tiered approach to testing (first test = 20% of the ductwork; 2nd test = 100%). At the same time, SMACNA guidelines have relied on calculations to determine maximum permissible leakage rates.  The current formula Leakagemax = CL X P0.65 X SA takes a number of variables into account, including the total surface area, duct pressure and leakage class specified by the engineer. The updated guide is expected to eliminate many of these variables under the evolving assumption that duct leakage is detrimental to all air distribution systems, no matter their size or type. As with the other updates, these new guidelines reflect the industry’s growing understanding of the major role duct leakage plays in overall building performance.  As a result, it is expected that sealing and testing duct systems will play an increasingly significant role in commercial building construction and remodeling. SMACNA Guide To Duct Construction In late 2017, SMACNA presented for public review an updated version of its HVAC Duct Construction Standards. This fourth edition includes a variety of updates that reflect industry innovations that impact the construction, installation and repair of HVAC ductwork – both metal and flexible ducts. Most notable is the inclusion, for the first time, of aerosol duct sealing as a viable alternative to traditional manual sealing methods. “Now that it has been on the market for more than a decade, aerosol-based duct sealing technology has proven to be a highly effective means of sealing ductwork and in many cases, the only viable means of getting the job done,” said Dr. Mark P. Modera, Director of the UC-Davis Western Cooling Efficiency Center (WCEC) and inventor of Aeroseal technology. “Its inclusion in the SMACNA standards reflects the multitude of buildings around the globe that have used this new approach to duct sealing in order to repair leaks in existing ductwork and ensure maximum efficiency in new constructions.” IECC 2018 The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) was first introduced in 1998 by the International Code Council The International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) was first introduced in 1998 by the International Code Council. The comprehensive guide provides a blueprint for energy-efficient building envelopes, HVAC installation, lighting and power systems and other elements affecting overall building performance. For years, IECC has been adopted by many U.S. states and municipal governments as mandatory minimum requirements for energy-efficient buildings. The latest version of this code takes effect on January 1, 2018. Among changes in the code requirements for residential buildings is a provision that requires building owners to provide all HVAC equipment and testing data needed to determine proper installation. This will undoubtedly increase post-installation testing and drive processes that ensure effective duct sealing has been accomplished. California Title 24 While national standards bodies update their building guidelines, a number of states are revamping their own building code requirements. Unlike ASHRAE or SMACNA guidelines, these state updated codes are law and, in the case of California, often serve as the catalyst for broader national building code adoption. Early into the new year, California is expected to present the latest version Title 24, the state’s building standards code. As with other building code updates, this new document will place unprecedented weight on duct system performance. While specifics of the plan have yet to be determined, all indications are that the new building code requirements will reflect the current industry emphasis now being placed on duct leakage and the role effective duct performance plays in commercial building energy efficiency. Implementation of a point system Whatever the final results of California Title 24, its implications for the nationwide building industry is clear “There are several ways that California may ultimately enforce tighter duct leakage specifications,” said Walsh. “It may materialize as a simple maximum rate mandate or as incentives for exceeding minimum levels. We’ve also heard serious discussions regarding the implementation of a point system for overall building code adherence – the goal being to hit a certain total number of points at the end of the project.” Whatever the final results of California Title 24, its implications for the nationwide building industry is clear. History has shown that where California goes – many other states will soon follow. And the nationwide trend is already picking up steam – tighter leakage rates, higher percentage of duct system testing, broader inclusion of duct types to be included in the testing process, and a tiered testing system. Overall building performance “The duct systems in most U.S. Commercial buildings today leak – that’s an established fact,” said Walsh. “And while it’s estimated that the annual cost of these leaks run in the billions of dollars in wasted energy and IAQ concerns, fixes to the problem have been limited. With the introduction of aerosol duct sealing and other new technologies, that is no longer the case, and these new, tighter regulations reflect our new ability to solve this critical problem.” No matter what direction the federal government’s energy policy takes in 2018, the momentum towards energy-efficient building is fast and formative. At the same time, the role that duct systems (and duct leakage) play in overall building performance continues to escalate.  As a result, updated specifications and building code regulations pertaining to this critical aspect of building compliance are finally receiving the scrutiny and attention that they are due.

The International Code Council (ICC) MENA is excited to announce its debut participation in The Big 5 Saudi, taking place from February 15th to 18th, 2025 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center. This highly anticipated event will spotlight the latest innovations in construction and building technologies, with this year's theme, "Strong Foundations: From Design to Build." This marks a significant milestone for ICC MENA as it expands its footprint in the region to support the thriving construction industry. With Saudi Arabia witnessing an unprecedented construction boom driven by Vision 2030, ICC MENA’s involvement underscores its commitment to fostering safer, more sustainable, and innovative building practices across the Kingdom and the wider region. Future of construction in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia’s construction landscape is transforming at an accelerated pace Commenting on ICC MENA's participation in The Big 5 Saudi, Mohamed Amer, Regional Director of Operations for ICC MENA, stated, "This marks a pivotal moment for ICC MENA as it aligns its global expertise with the Kingdom’s ambitious vision for growth and innovation. With plans to establish a branch office in Riyadh, ICC MENA is poised to be a strategic partner in shaping the future of construction in Saudi Arabia." Saudi Arabia’s construction landscape is transforming at an accelerated pace. From mega-projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Development to infrastructure expansions in Riyadh and Jeddah, the industry demands robust standards to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Key highlight of ICC MENA A key highlight of ICC MENA’s presence at the event is the announcement of its ongoing efforts to establish a branch office in Riyadh. This strategic move will position ICC MENA to better serve the Kingdom’s stakeholders by: Enhancing Local Accessibility: Providing localized training, credentialing, and certification programs. Facilitating Compliance: Assisting with the implementation of globally recognized codes tailored to local needs. Streamlining Services: Offering on-the-ground support for evaluation services, including product compliance and innovative construction technologies. ICC’s global expertise With a strong commitment to driving excellence and sustainability in the region's rapidly evolving construction sector, ICC aims to be a key partner in shaping a safer and more sustainable future.  Attendees are encouraged to visit booth no. 5B01 to explore how ICC’s global expertise can enhance the construction industry's growth.

Saudi Arabia’s construction industry is rapidly evolving, fueled by technological advancements, strategies in large-scale projects, policy reforms and sustainability. Returning once again at Big 5 Construct Saudi, the International Contracting Conference (ICC), organized by the Saudi Contractors Authority (SCA) and dmg events and taking place on 15-16 February, will host government officials, industry pioneers and policymakers to share insights into navigating the Kingdom’s construction landscape and exploring new opportunities. Innovative ideas and solutions Kingdom’s development initiatives showcase the immense scale and ambition of its transformation With more than 5,200 construction projects currently underway, including Neom, The Red Sea Project, Qiddiya, Diriyah and others, valued at an estimated $819 billion (source: Mordor Intelligence), the Kingdom’s development initiatives showcase the immense scale and ambition of its transformation.  “As Saudi Arabia sprints towards Vision 2030, organizations and individuals must evolve to help facilitate these ambitions,” said Muhammed Kazi, Senior Vice President of Construction at dmg events. “The panel discussions and sessions at Big 5 Construct Saudi are therefore strategically curated to address the industry challenges and provide innovative ideas and solutions to meet the Kingdom’s goals for its dynamic contracting sector.” Bringing together for high-level discussions The International Contracting Conference 2025 at Big 5 Construct Saudi will unite the top contractors and international contracting experts in the Kingdom for two days of insightful dialogues and discussions focusing on topics such as the impact of Vision 2030, innovative construction methods, digital tools for project management and government-private sector collaboration. From 15-16 February 2025, at the ICC Theater, Hall 6, Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center, the highly anticipated conference will spotlight transformative developments and opportunities, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. Prominent industry pioneers Prominent industry pioneers such as Khalid Al Othman, President of the National Committee for Sustainability and Green Economy, Federation of Saudi Chambers; Dr. Anas Bataw, Srategy and Innovation Director, KEO International Consultants; Prakash Senghani, CEO and Co-Founder, Navatech; James Irvine, Managing Director, Alvarez and Marshal; Alaa Arabi, Principal, TBH; Alexander Sarac, Partner at Addleshaw Goddard; Ayman Alwaleedi, Executive Director – Project Management at Rua Al Madinah; Mark Sperring, Regional PMC Director; and Wael Allan, Chief Executive Officer at Ayar International Contracting Company (AICC) among others, will headline the conference. Towards Vision 2030 “I look forward to engaging in high-level conversations at this year’s Big 5 Construct Saudi, where we’ll come together to discuss the opportunities in the Kingdom’s construction landscape and work towards Vision 2030 in unison to driving the sector’s transformation,” said David Watkins, Chief Project Development Officer at Osool Integrated Real Estate Company, who will share his expertise on the opportunities in the Kingdom’s construction sector. Elevating knowledge and practical insights at Big 5 Talks Big 5 Construct Saudi will also host Big 5 Talks, featuring more than 75 expert-led sessions Complementing ICC, Big 5 Construct Saudi will also host Big 5 Talks, featuring more than 75 expert-led sessions designed to empower professionals with actionable strategies and progressive insights over two weeks. Featuring over 150 speakers, subject-matter experts, and pioneers, these sessions will cover various topics impacting the Kingdom’s built environment, enabling attendees to have fresh ideas, practical solutions, and professional growth.  Advancements in HVAC R The first week (15-18 February) will lay strong foundations for the construction industry, covering key topics from design to execution. Discussions will explore advancements in HVAC R, modular construction, project management, health and safety, and regulatory compliance.  Attendees will also gain insights into innovative concrete and geotechnical solutions, as well as emerging technologies that enhance productivity and project outcomes. Best practices for maintaining sustainable structures The event will also address healthcare design and medical infrastructure, alongside discussions In the second week (24–27 February), the focus will shift to transforming projects from fit-out to services, with an emphasis on sustainable solutions and operational excellence.  The Architect Leaders Forum will bring together industry visionaries to discuss trends shaping architectural design, while sessions on facilities management and green buildings will highlight the best practices for maintaining sustainable structures. The event will also address healthcare design and medical infrastructure, alongside discussions on how technology is revolutionizing fit-out processes. Renowned local and international speakers Among the renowned local and international speakers joining the talks are Mohamed Amer, Regional Director of Operations, International Code Council MENA; Nabil Shahin, Managing Director of AHRI MENA, Alaa A. Khater, Principal and Managing Director of Afaq Innovation and Development (Saudi Arabia); Hamzah Al-Hashemi, CEO and Technical Director at GeoStruXer; Khaled Nahlawi, PhD, PE, Distinguished Engineer, American Concrete Institute (ACI) and Mohammed Younes, Geotechnical Manager, Qiddiya Investment Company, among others. key platform to explore innovations Big 5 Construct Saudi, supported by the Saudi Contractors Authority, will take place from 15-18 (First Week) and 24-27 February (Second Week) at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center at ROSHN Front.  With the International Contracting Conference (ICC) running from 15-16 February and Big 5 Talks spanning both weeks, the event will serve as a key platform for industry pioneers to explore innovations, drive partnerships and support the Kingdom’s ambitious plans for its expansive construction sector.

Revised building codes, based on model “I-Codes” developed by the International Code Council (ICC), are being widely adopted to allow A2L refrigerants to be used in comfort air conditioning applications. Previously, the use of A2L refrigerants, which are “mildly flammable,” was not allowed by building codes in force in 2021 and before because of safety concerns.   benefits of A2Ls However, the benefits of using A2Ls instead of refrigerants with higher global warming potential (GWP) have led to their acceptance as a replacement for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in air conditioning applications. In response to the greater acceptance, driven by EPA refrigerant cutbacks, ICC has revised their building codes to permit the use of A2Ls, and local jurisdictions are in the process of adopting the revised building codes.  2024 I-Code changes Approved code changes in the 2024 IBC, IFC, and IMC allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants The 2024 I-Code changes facilitate compliance with new refrigerant requirements and support producers and refrigerant appliance manufacturers already transitioning to lower-GWP solutions such as A2Ls.  Approved code changes in the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), and International Mechanical Code (IMC) allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants to replace refrigerants. The use of A2L impacts all three intertwined sets of building codes, which have been undergoing the three-year amendment process since 2021.  model codes and standards The International Code Council is a global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions that include product evaluation, accreditation, technology, training, and certification.  ICC is working with the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) to partner with the construction industry and to facilitate legislation to navigate this positive change.  The IBC, IMC, and IFC code revisions, all managed by ICC, have been approved; two finalized codes were published earlier in 2023 and the third is being released in November 2023. Building, mechanical, and Fire codes Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants The Building and Fire codes cover storage of A2Ls in a warehouse, while the Mechanical code covers requirements for installing equipment that uses A2Ls.   Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants, including ASHRAE 15 (Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems), UL 484 (Room Air Conditioners), UL/CSA 60335-2-40 (refrigerant detector requirements) and UL/CSA 60335-2-89 (enabling higher charge limits for flammable refrigerants).   requirements of ASHRAE 15 In buildings where HVAC machinery is installed, the code changes reflect requirements of ASHRAE 15, such as no equipment with open flames, elevated temperature limits in a room, and refrigerant detection requirements that trigger a mechanical ventilation system in case of a leak. Any piping that carries A2L must be labeled as flammable with a warning. Condensers and evaporators will need to carry the familiar triangular flammability labels and “risk of fire explosion” verbiage, all consistent with the ASHRAE 15 standard.   Diamond-shaped labeling An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case “Diamond-shaped labeling must be displayed on packaging, storage, and containers so that anyone coming into a room knows there is flammable refrigerant there,” says Jim Cika, a director of technical resources for the International Code Council.   The codes cover safety requirements such as leak detection, ventilation requirements, and “flammable” labeling. An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case of a detected leak of A2L gas.  storage and warehousing “The biggest concern is proper storage and warehousing,” says Jim Cika. “Due to flammability, there are significant additional storage requirements compared to HFC. Distributors have to be prepared with appropriate space and labeling requirements, especially when the materials are being stored in bulk and large quantities.”  A2L code provisions The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants ICC has created a website that provides relevant A2L code provisions including documents with specific wording related to code changes. Some states adopt the codes state-wide, while other “home-rule” states leave the adoption of the codes to the individual local jurisdictions. The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants.   new codes ICC has been publicizing the code changes with the help of a grassroots effort with AHRI. “We have put our code provisions out there so everybody knows what they need to be concerned about and to be ready for inspection,” says Cika. The new codes are coordinated with the EPA and the requirements of the SNAP programs. “We are all on the same page,” he says.  installation of new equipment After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant Up to 25 lbs. of A2L refrigerant can be transported without any hazardous material restrictions; in effect, installers and contractors can transport A2L just as they did HFC.  Transitioning to A2L refrigerants involves the installation of new equipment since the legacy equipment that uses HFCs is not compatible with the new refrigerants. After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant. transition to A2Ls Technicians will still be able to service and maintain existing equipment installed in the field for the rest of its useful life. With equipment using both types of refrigerant operating among various customers, technicians will need to be able to work on either type of system during the transition period.  Phased down and limited supplies of HFCs, as ordained by EPA regulations, will likely push installers and their customers to the newer technologies using A2Ls.