Introduction to the 2023 ICC 500, Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters (Self-Paced)

Building codes are established by specialized agencies and organizations with expertise in specific areas. The International Code Council (ICC) and the National Storm Shelter Association (NSSA) collaborated to create the ICC/NSSA Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm Shelters. This standard outlines the design and construction requirements for tornado and hurricane storm shelters. It provides engineers and building designers with a foundation to reference when creating storm shelters. By adhering to the ICC 500 requirements, the public can be assured that compliant storm shelters will be safe and effective. This course introduces the 2023 edition of the ICC 500 Standard for the Design and Construction of Storm shelters which is referenced by the 2024 I-Codes. The 2023 ICC 500 provides minimum design and construction requirements for storm shelters that provide a safe refuge from storms producing high winds, hurricanes, and tornadoes. It contains design requirements for the main wind-resisting structural system and components and cladding. It also provides basic occupant life safety and health requirements including means of egress, lighting, sanitation, ventilation, fire safety, and floor space. It also provides an overview of the code provisions found within the 2024 IBC that establish when and where storm shelters are required. This course increases awareness on when and where storm shelters are required along with the requirements found within the ICC 500-23 regarding the minimum design and construction of storm shelters.