The Florida Building Code 5th Edition went into effect June 30, 2015. There are numerous changes in the base code, as well as Florida specific amendments to the base code, which regulates the design, construction, testing, and operation of mechanical systems. This course summarizes some of the significant changes in the next edition of the Florida Building Code, Mechanical. This course is intended for those familiar with the code and desiring to update their knowledge on the changes in these important regulations. Any designer, contractor, supplier, inspector, plans examiner, or other person involved with mechanical systems, whether they be commercial or domestic, will benefit from keeping current with the regulations largely governing their profession.
Identify the necessary requirements regarding the lengths of pipe, tubing, and pipe fittings
Select the required elevation for equipment and appliances having a source of ignition to protect the safety of building occupants from explosion
Recall the required gasket and sealing materials on commercial kitchen hood ventilation systems to prevent a fire hazard
Identify the Florida specific amendment (FSA) for balanced air return C
ompare and contrast the spacing of duct supports to protect building occupants from injury
Communicate the code approved method for locking refrigerant circuit access ports located outdoors
SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT: Joe Belcher
Joe has more than thirty-five years in the code development and enforcement field. He spent 10 years in the public sector starting in fire inspection and ending in building code enforcement. When he left the public sector he was the Director of Public Safety Inspections for the City of Gainesville, Florida. As the director, he also served as the building official for the city.
Mr. Belcher entered the public sector as the Director of Codes and Standards for a statewide industry association establishing and directing their codes and standards program for 8 years. He left the association and started his own code consultancy, JDB Code Services, Inc, in 1993 and continues to operate the company today. He has been involved in code development, enforcement, and product approval and currently represents the interests of several trade associations in the code arena.
In addition to his code consultancy, Joe started a company specializing in code education in 2001. He is currently the president and half owner of BRB Code Educators, Inc. BRB develops and provides specialized education on building codes and standards to code enforcement personnel, contractors, architects, engineers, home inspectors and others. Since formation of the company classes have been well received and presented to thousands of attendees. Attendees have included building code enforcers, architects, engineers, all contractor disciplines, fire service personnel, and product manufacturer and producer groups throughout the United States
Professional Organizations
American Hospital Association - AHA - Certified Healthcare Facility Manager (CHFM) (General)
BOMI International - RPA, FMA and/or SMA (General)
International Facility Management Association - IFMA - Certified Facility Manager (CFM) (General)
Ontario Association of Certified Engineering Technicians and Technologists - OACETT - Certified Member (Contribution to Technical Knowledge)
1 hr. Online Course