Storm & Security

Belcher's involvement with building codes dates back to But Belcher points out that even Florida's stringent building 1976 when he worked as a fire inspector/firefighter for codes are only the first step in ensuring public safety. "It Brevard County, FL. By 1979 he was the code enforcement should be understood," says Belcher, "that codes are the coordinator for the Orange County Building Dept. supervis- minimum standards for construction. A code-compliant ing commercial and multi-family plan reviews. In 1984 he building simply provides a reasonable level of safety to the became a deputy building official for Altamonte Springs, general public and other users of the built environment. FL. By the mid-1980s Belcher was the director of public Having said that, compliance with the code is essential safety inspections/building officer for the city of Gainesville, to assure the building will provide the desired protection FL, where he was responsible for directing the enforcement not only during ordinary daily use, but when the elements of construction, housing, zoning and other related provide tests of the design such as high-wind events like regulations. hurricanes. Hurricane Charley and other storms in Florida In 1993, Belcher set up shop as JDB Code Services, Inc., which is all about building code. "We offer a full range of services related to codes and construction including have shown there has been a marked improvement in the ability of buildings to withstand storms since the adoption of the Florida Building Code." code development, code interpretation, product approval The success building codes have shown in providing safer assistance, plan review, expert witness research and homes and businesses ensures their lasting importance to testimony, assistance with local jurisdictions, public the hurricane protection industry. Knowing and following speaking, code related education, and any other matters the codes is vital to its success. It also ensures the lasting related to construction codes," he explains. involvement of code inspectors checking for compliance. Joe Belcher also is president and half owner of BRB Code Educators, Inc., which provides general and specialized training on the codes. Rather than creating friction, Belcher would like to see everyone working together. "As a storm protection professional," Belcher says, "you are intimately involved in the manufacture and installation of your products, which are a relatively small portion of the code. Bear in Marked Improvement mind that the job site building inspector is responsible for When it comes to hurricane protection and storm mitigation, Florida is seen as a leader in addressing these matters through its building code. It's a reputation that developed through a years-long process that began in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and continues today. It's a never-ending cycle, actually. Every three years the enforcement of the entire building code, numerous other codes or code volumes, and adopted standards." Belcher advises, "Temper your criticism of the inspector who needs assistance in understanding the use and installation of your product." the Florida Building Commission reviews and updates its "While there are many aspects to running a successful code. These codes strive to ensure homeowner safety. hurricane protection business, knowledge of the code is Updated codes incorporate advances in technology and fundamental to making certain you are in compliance with materials, and extend to testing, permitting, installing the law," Belcher warns. In other words, codes matter. and inspecting hurricane protection products. "Storms in Florida have shown there has been a marked improvement in the ability of buildings to withstand storms since the adoption of the Florida Building Code." PEOPLE IN THE KNOW 2013 / STORM & SECURITY PROTECTION 15

• Cover