Washington, D.C. – February 5, 2016 – The American Institute of Architects (AIA) today issued the following statement after President Obama on Thursdaysigned an executive order establishing a Federal Earthquake Risk Management Standard.  

The executive order requires that Federal agencies responsible for the design and construction of new buildings, or alterations to existing buildings, ensure that the buildings are built or renovated using the earthquake-resistant design provisions in the International Building Code (IBC) or the International Residential Code (IRC). These are nationally recognized building codes promulgated by the International Code Council (ICC), or equivalent codes.

Please attribute to AIA President Russell Davidson, FAIA:

“The American Institute of Architects has long been on the leading edge of designing buildings that mitigate hazards and reduce risk to the public during a disaster. That is why we advocate for the implementation of comprehensive and contemporary building codes - which reflect the best science at the time of development about earthquake hazard risk - as one of the best ways to achieve earthquake safety to preserve the lives, enhance resilience and promote the long-term sustainability of communities.

“We applaud the Administration’s commitment to ensuring all federal buildings meet or exceed these building codes and look forward to continuing our collaboration so that we can increase the nation’s resilience to disasters of all kinds.” 

About The American Institute of Architects

Founded in 1857, the American Institute of Architects consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through nearly 300 state and local chapters, the AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards. The AIA provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders, and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation and world. Visit  www.aia.org.



Contact:

John Schneidawind
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johnschneidawind@aia.org
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