‘It starts with you’ slogan emphasizes the importance
of safe buildings and infrastructure for all
SAN DIEGO – On May 16, 2023, the San Diego City Council recognized May as Building Safety Month to remind San Diegans about the critical role of building code enforcement staff and first responders in assuring safe, efficient and livable buildings for all. Building Safety Month is an international campaign, promoted by the International Code Council, to raise awareness about building safety.
In a continued effort to ensure safe places of work and play, 75 city employees responsible for building inspection and structural engineering recently became certified (or re-certified) during a state-issued safety assessment training. During the training, held on May 8 and 9, staff from the city’s Development Services Department (DSD) learned how to perform post-disaster damage inspections both locally and outside San Diego.
“The city recognizes that successful urban growth and development depends on the safety of proper design and construction of new homes and buildings with supportive infrastructure,” said DSD Director Elyse W. Lowe. “The international ‘It Starts with You’ campaign means we all have the responsibility to raise awareness about building safety on a personal and global scale to prevent needless loss of lives. If a structure doesn’t look safe due to cracks in walls or foundations, please report it so the city can inspect it for safety and code compliance.”
The city ensures the structural integrity of all buildings in San Diego through building safety and Fire-Rescue officials, code inspectors, structural engineers, builders and design professionals.
In 2022, DSD staff completed almost 143,000 inspections to ensure new and past construction projects and properties within the city meet safety and compliance standards. The city encourages everyone to observe their surroundings and take steps to prevent disasters at home.
“A small act as simple as checking the safety of electrical cords is important,” said Lowe. “Don’t overload electrical outlets or use appliances with damaged cords in order to prevent a fire in your residence or office.”
To learn more about building safety and for tips on how to keep your home or office safe, visit buildingsafetymonth.org.
(City of San Diego Release)
