Florida 2023 Advanced Building Code Changes

The subject matter covers key changes from the previous 2020 Florida Building Code (FBC), with a particular emphasis on the practical implications of the changes. The curriculum details revisions to code sections pertaining to residential and commercial electrical systems, including changes to grounding, bonding, and overcurrent protection. It also highlights new requirements for specific installations, such as those related to permanently installed immersion pools and other specialized equipment. This course is structured to deliver critical, actionable knowledge to help the course attendees be compliant with the most current state regulations.

The course also addresses updates concerning the incorporation of technologies and safety protocols within the new code. Subjects include the application of new rules for emergency disconnects, the enhanced requirements for fire alarm systems and egress lighting, and the integration of the National Electrical Code (NEC) changes as adopted by the state of Florida. By focusing on these core areas, the course makes the course attendees learn how to adapt their practices to align with the new standards for safety and resilience in Florida’s unique environment.

Upon completion of this course, participants are able to demonstrate a measurable understanding of the 2023 Florida Building Code. Educational goals include the ability to accurately identify and explain the most critical code changes.

The behavioral objectives are for participants to be able to:

• correctly apply the new code requirements for residential and commercial installations;
• ensure that their work complies with updated safety standards, particularly concerning specialized equipment; and
• confidently identify key changes to code articles related to their daily professional practice.

ADVANCED COURSE LEARNING OBJECTIVES

This course is designed to directly enhance the professional competency and performance of professionals working within Florida’s construction, engineering, architecture, and electrical contracting industries. The primary goal is to provide a focused and practical review of critical structural, wind load, flood resistance, and electrical updates in the 2023 Florida Building Code (FBC). By mastering these changes, participants will improve the quality and accuracy of their plan reviews and field inspections, leading to safer and more compliant construction projects.

Upon successful completion of this course, the attendees will be able to:

• Verify compliance with the new mandatory structural inspection (MSI) requirements for condominium and cooperative buildings as detailed in FBC.
• Apply the revised live load requirements for passenger vehicle garages and the new tornado load provisions during plan review and field inspections.
• Enforce the updated design wind pressures for screened enclosures and the new design criteria for operable louvers in both commercial and residential applications.
• Determine the correct elevation requirements for new construction and substantial improvements in Zone A, Zone V, and Coastal Zone A flood hazard areas.
• Identify and enforce the 2023 Florida Building Code updates related to electrical systems, including new GFCI protection rules, requirements for emergency disconnects, single-phase dwelling services, and specific installations such as boat hoists and permanently installed immersion pools.