by Brianna Crandall — July 30, 2014—The International Code Council has launched a new publication to address an issue that many facilities owners and managers have experience with during the building commissioning and inspection process—how building inspectors can relate positively with building professionals in order to facilitate a successful inspection process and ensure a safe, resilient building outcome.
According to ICC, Inspector Skills is the first book to address the nontechnical soft skills necessary for the people-related aspects of inspection for code compliance. When coupled with a solid technical knowledge of codes and construction practices, effective soft skills enhance an inspector’s ability to interact with the public and contractors to successfully carry out job duties, says the Council.
The new guide was created to enable both veteran and new inspectors in any construction discipline to avoid the situation where a lack of people skills or an unprofessional manner could overshadow technical expertise and interfere with the inspection process. It addresses essential soft skills such as decision-making, problem-solving, professionalism, integrity, honesty and time management, and provides guidance for improving those proficiencies.
These strengths support an inspector’s ability to ensure buildings are resilient, safe and code-compliant, says ICC, and can help generate respect and credibility, prompt cooperation, and improve the image of inspectors and code safety departments.
Author Stephen A. Van Note is the managing director of product development for the Code Council, where he creates technical resources and teaches seminars. Van Note has 15 years of experience in code administration and enforcement, and more than 20 years of experience in the construction field. A certified building official and plans examiner, he also holds certifications in several inspection categories.
Inspector Skills is available for purchase in hard copy for $24.95 ($19.95 for ICC Members), Product Item #7104S, or as a PDF download for $23 ($18.50 for ICC Members), Product Item #8950P585. ICC also offers full-day and half-day training seminars based on the book.
