The Department of Municipal Affairs in Abu Dhabi has taken a step closer towards implementing a world-class building code across the emirate which will deliver better buildings in which to live and work.

The move follows a meeting with the “Building Codes Higher Committee” a cross-Abu Dhabi government panel formed to ensure the smooth adaptation, development and implementation of the International Building Codes (IBC) across the emirate.

The session focused on the implementation plans for the International Building Code and its supporting codes, while highlighting the need for close collaboration and co-operation between the public and private sectors to ensure a smooth transition phase.

Rashid Mubarak Al Hajeri, chairman of DMA and chairman of the Building Codes Higher Council said: 'The new building codes will help developers create better places in which to live and work across the entire emirate by improving construction standards.'

'That means improved public health and safety in homes and offices, greater energy efficiency and ultimately buildings which are more durable and long-lasting. Our goal is to adopt the best codes in the world for Abu Dhabi.'

“The implementation of the new codes will require continued collaboration and feedback between government entities and our partnerships in the construction and real estate sector. We are committed to a smooth transition phase made possible through training workshops and awareness seminars,” Al Hajeri added.

The Department of Municipal Affairs also confirmed that cross-municipal employees have participated in the first phase of seminars and training workshops to raise awareness and improve understanding of the new building codes and supporting codes.

Industry training workshops will be offered to all sectors within the construction industry later this year.

The building codes, once developed, will be applied across the emirate by code administrators, construction design professionals and developers, and enforced through a rigorous program of inspections and legislation by the authorities.

Ahmad Shareef, undersecretary of the Department of Municipal Affairs (DMA) said: “DMA signed a MoU and service agreement with the International Code Council (ICC), the world’s leading building code authority and developers of the International Codes.”

“The MoU established the framework for adoption of the IBC, which will take effect by January next year and the development of the Abu Dhabi International Building Code, the new localised set of standards which will guide the development of Building construction projects in the emirate,” Shareef added.-TradeArabia News Service