During the month of May, the Town of The Blue Mountains is proud to recognize Building Safety Month and the dedication of professionals in the building industry to ensure the safety of homes, buildings, and infrastructure. This year marks a significant milestone as the Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA) celebrates 50 years of the Ontario Building Code.
Since its introduction in 1975, the Ontario Building Code (OBC) has played a key role in promoting public safety through establishing uniform building standards. Over the past 50 years, it has continuously evolved to address emerging needs, incorporate new technologies, and implement new safety standards like barrier-free accessibility requirements, enhanced fire safety measures, energy efficiency standards, and climate resistance measures.
Like the Ontario Building Code, the role of building professionals has also evolved over the years. Today, their responsibilities extend beyond routine inspections to include critical tasks like plan reviews, zoning compliance, fire and safety enforcement, and more. Enforcing the building code and ensuring construction and renovations meet safety and quality standards is a collaborative effort involving building officials, inspectors, fire prevention officials, architects, engineers, builders, tradespersons, design professionals, and the entire construction industry.
These professionals rely on the Ontario Building Code to set the minimum standard for new construction, additions, and alterations to existing buildings. Ontario is known to have one of the best building codes in the world, and because of these high standards, residents can feel safe in the buildings where they live, work, and play.
The Town extends its sincere appreciation to all building professionals for their integral role in ensuring the safety, strength, and growth of the community.
