International Code Council - Experts & Thought Leaders

The International Code Council (ICC) MENA is excited to announce its debut participation in The Big 5 Saudi, taking place from February 15th to 18th, 2025 at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center. This highly anticipated event will spotlight the latest innovations in construction and building technologies, with this year's theme, "Strong Foundations: From Design to Build." This marks a significant milestone for ICC MENA as it expands its footprint in the region to support the thriving construction industry. With Saudi Arabia witnessing an unprecedented construction boom driven by Vision 2030, ICC MENA’s involvement underscores its commitment to fostering safer, more sustainable, and innovative building practices across the Kingdom and the wider region. Future of construction in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia’s construction landscape is transforming at an accelerated pace Commenting on ICC MENA's participation in The Big 5 Saudi, Mohamed Amer, Regional Director of Operations for ICC MENA, stated, "This marks a pivotal moment for ICC MENA as it aligns its global expertise with the Kingdom’s ambitious vision for growth and innovation. With plans to establish a branch office in Riyadh, ICC MENA is poised to be a strategic partner in shaping the future of construction in Saudi Arabia." Saudi Arabia’s construction landscape is transforming at an accelerated pace. From mega-projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Development to infrastructure expansions in Riyadh and Jeddah, the industry demands robust standards to ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability. Key highlight of ICC MENA A key highlight of ICC MENA’s presence at the event is the announcement of its ongoing efforts to establish a branch office in Riyadh. This strategic move will position ICC MENA to better serve the Kingdom’s stakeholders by: Enhancing Local Accessibility: Providing localized training, credentialing, and certification programs. Facilitating Compliance: Assisting with the implementation of globally recognized codes tailored to local needs. Streamlining Services: Offering on-the-ground support for evaluation services, including product compliance and innovative construction technologies. ICC’s global expertise With a strong commitment to driving excellence and sustainability in the region's rapidly evolving construction sector, ICC aims to be a key partner in shaping a safer and more sustainable future.  Attendees are encouraged to visit booth no. 5B01 to explore how ICC’s global expertise can enhance the construction industry's growth.

Saudi Arabia’s construction industry is rapidly evolving, fueled by technological advancements, strategies in large-scale projects, policy reforms and sustainability. Returning once again at Big 5 Construct Saudi, the International Contracting Conference (ICC), organized by the Saudi Contractors Authority (SCA) and dmg events and taking place on 15-16 February, will host government officials, industry pioneers and policymakers to share insights into navigating the Kingdom’s construction landscape and exploring new opportunities. Innovative ideas and solutions Kingdom’s development initiatives showcase the immense scale and ambition of its transformation With more than 5,200 construction projects currently underway, including Neom, The Red Sea Project, Qiddiya, Diriyah and others, valued at an estimated $819 billion (source: Mordor Intelligence), the Kingdom’s development initiatives showcase the immense scale and ambition of its transformation.  “As Saudi Arabia sprints towards Vision 2030, organizations and individuals must evolve to help facilitate these ambitions,” said Muhammed Kazi, Senior Vice President of Construction at dmg events. “The panel discussions and sessions at Big 5 Construct Saudi are therefore strategically curated to address the industry challenges and provide innovative ideas and solutions to meet the Kingdom’s goals for its dynamic contracting sector.” Bringing together for high-level discussions The International Contracting Conference 2025 at Big 5 Construct Saudi will unite the top contractors and international contracting experts in the Kingdom for two days of insightful dialogues and discussions focusing on topics such as the impact of Vision 2030, innovative construction methods, digital tools for project management and government-private sector collaboration. From 15-16 February 2025, at the ICC Theater, Hall 6, Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center, the highly anticipated conference will spotlight transformative developments and opportunities, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. Prominent industry pioneers Prominent industry pioneers such as Khalid Al Othman, President of the National Committee for Sustainability and Green Economy, Federation of Saudi Chambers; Dr. Anas Bataw, Srategy and Innovation Director, KEO International Consultants; Prakash Senghani, CEO and Co-Founder, Navatech; James Irvine, Managing Director, Alvarez and Marshal; Alaa Arabi, Principal, TBH; Alexander Sarac, Partner at Addleshaw Goddard; Ayman Alwaleedi, Executive Director – Project Management at Rua Al Madinah; Mark Sperring, Regional PMC Director; and Wael Allan, Chief Executive Officer at Ayar International Contracting Company (AICC) among others, will headline the conference. Towards Vision 2030 “I look forward to engaging in high-level conversations at this year’s Big 5 Construct Saudi, where we’ll come together to discuss the opportunities in the Kingdom’s construction landscape and work towards Vision 2030 in unison to driving the sector’s transformation,” said David Watkins, Chief Project Development Officer at Osool Integrated Real Estate Company, who will share his expertise on the opportunities in the Kingdom’s construction sector. Elevating knowledge and practical insights at Big 5 Talks Big 5 Construct Saudi will also host Big 5 Talks, featuring more than 75 expert-led sessions Complementing ICC, Big 5 Construct Saudi will also host Big 5 Talks, featuring more than 75 expert-led sessions designed to empower professionals with actionable strategies and progressive insights over two weeks. Featuring over 150 speakers, subject-matter experts, and pioneers, these sessions will cover various topics impacting the Kingdom’s built environment, enabling attendees to have fresh ideas, practical solutions, and professional growth.  Advancements in HVAC R The first week (15-18 February) will lay strong foundations for the construction industry, covering key topics from design to execution. Discussions will explore advancements in HVAC R, modular construction, project management, health and safety, and regulatory compliance.  Attendees will also gain insights into innovative concrete and geotechnical solutions, as well as emerging technologies that enhance productivity and project outcomes. Best practices for maintaining sustainable structures The event will also address healthcare design and medical infrastructure, alongside discussions In the second week (24–27 February), the focus will shift to transforming projects from fit-out to services, with an emphasis on sustainable solutions and operational excellence.  The Architect Leaders Forum will bring together industry visionaries to discuss trends shaping architectural design, while sessions on facilities management and green buildings will highlight the best practices for maintaining sustainable structures. The event will also address healthcare design and medical infrastructure, alongside discussions on how technology is revolutionizing fit-out processes. Renowned local and international speakers Among the renowned local and international speakers joining the talks are Mohamed Amer, Regional Director of Operations, International Code Council MENA; Nabil Shahin, Managing Director of AHRI MENA, Alaa A. Khater, Principal and Managing Director of Afaq Innovation and Development (Saudi Arabia); Hamzah Al-Hashemi, CEO and Technical Director at GeoStruXer; Khaled Nahlawi, PhD, PE, Distinguished Engineer, American Concrete Institute (ACI) and Mohammed Younes, Geotechnical Manager, Qiddiya Investment Company, among others. key platform to explore innovations Big 5 Construct Saudi, supported by the Saudi Contractors Authority, will take place from 15-18 (First Week) and 24-27 February (Second Week) at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Conference Center at ROSHN Front.  With the International Contracting Conference (ICC) running from 15-16 February and Big 5 Talks spanning both weeks, the event will serve as a key platform for industry pioneers to explore innovations, drive partnerships and support the Kingdom’s ambitious plans for its expansive construction sector.

The AHR Expo (International Air-Conditioning, Heating, Refrigerating Exposition) released the full schedule for the 2025 AHR Expo Education Program. The program will feature more than 250 sessions, including free industry seminars, a robust panel series lineup, new product presentations, and more. AHR education program “Educating our current and future workforce is an area of dedicated attention and effort across most industry conversations,” said Show Manager, Mark Stevens. “Over the years, the AHR education program has grown into an important complementary asset to the show floor experience, lending an opportunity for deeper understanding of what’s happening within the industry, how to apply skill and knowledge, and how to prepare for shifts.”  real-world applications Areas of niche discipline, as well as broader discussion of topics that stretch the full supply chain The AHR Expo Education Program provides attendees with expert advice aimed at better understanding real-world applications and learning relating to current trends and practices across the industry. Areas of niche discipline, as well as broader discussion of topics that stretch the full supply chain, will be available to stimulate industry conversation and professional development.  session learning “AHR Expo is a unique opportunity to pair session learning with application practice due to the complementary aspect of our education programming and the exhibition floor,” said Kim Pires, Director of Education. “Taking learning one step further, attendees can apply what they’ve just learned in a classroom to products, technology, or conversations on the show floor, creating a valuable opportunity that’s hard to find elsewhere in the industry.” Attendees can expect the program to address a wide variety of topics and are encouraged to explore the full program on the website.  2025 Panel Series AI and Plumbing: How Smart Applications Can Lead to Smooth Waters Ahead Monday, February 10th at 11:00 AM with John Mullen, IAPMO, and Susan Frew of PHCC leading a discussion for plumbing professionals. Everything users Need to Know About the Refrigerant Transition and A2Ls Monday, February 10th at 3:00 PM led by AHRI and including Chuck White, VP of Regulatory Affairs at PHCC; Jim Cika, Director of PMG Technical Resources at ICC; Samantha Slater, VP of Government Affairs at AHRI; Scott Stone, Founder and President at Glencoe Strategies LLC; and Tom Deary, Director of Codes at AHRI.  2025 State of the Industry: Today’s Market, Challenges, Opportunities & What’s Ahead Tuesday, February 11th at 10:00 AM moderated by Bryan Orr of HVAC School, including discussion with M. Dennis Knight, President 2024-2025 ASHRAE; Stephen Yurek, CEO of AHRI; Talbot Gee, CEO of HARDI; and Dominick Guarino, President and CEO at National Comfort Institute Inc.  Free Industry Series The 2025 show will feature more than 230 free sessions led by industry experts. Sessions will range from 20 minutes in the product theaters, and one to two hours in the classroom sessions and aim to address the industry’s most pressing challenges and exciting opportunities. Attendees are invited to attend general HVACR-related sessions, as well as those that dive deeper into specific professional practice areas.  AHR Expo Education Program “The AHR Expo Education Program is the industry’s best place to learn trends, tips, and growth strategies that span the full industry,” said Kimberly Pires, AHR Expo Education Program Director. “Our associations design their sessions to address the most pressing topics within their areas of the industry. The goal is to provide diverse perspectives from every professional and perspective in HVACR. The opportunity for shared insight supports healthy communication across the industry.” Additional highlights Attendees are encouraged to explore the full program. Additional highlights for the 2025 AHR Expo Free Industry Seminar program include:  Contractors Refrigerant Detection Systems for Flammable, A2L Refrigerants Chris Forth, Vice President of Regulatory, Codes & Environmental Affairs, hosted by WHVACR In this session, the user will review the transition to low-GWP refrigerants, including mildly flammable A2Ls, and learn about refrigerant detection systems (RDS). Join to gain an understanding of what features an RDS must have, how these systems function, and how to quickly determine if they are optional or required for an installation.  SMACNA Large Duct Construction & HVAC Duct Systems Inspection Shawn O’Hara, Senior Project Manager, SMACNA National; Geoffrey Parks, Senior Project Manager, SMACNA National, hosted by Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors' National Association In this session, users will learn what's driving larger ductwork in the industry today and how to properly construct and support larger ductwork using the SMACNA HVAC Duct Construction Standards (4th Edition).  Empowering Green Choices: How Financing Makes Energy Efficiency Affordable Erica Leonor, Director of Business Development at Goodleap; and Erik Summers, hosted by WHVACR In this session, users will discover how innovative financing options can empower homeowners to invest in high-end, energy-efficient HVACR systems through the exploration of financial tools that make eco-friendly upgrades accessible.  The Digital Revolution in HVAC: AI, Automation, and the Future of Customer Service Josh Crouch, Founder of Relentless Digital and Co-Host of Service Business Mastery Podcast, and Tersh Blissett, CEO, of Service Emperor; Co-Host of Service Business Mastery Podcast, hosted by AHR Expo  In this session users will learn strategies to integrate 'digital coworkers' into the business, enhancing efficiency and customer service by reviewing real-world examples of AI improving customer journeys and operations.  Distribution/Supply Chain Repair, Replacement or Maintenance: Which Strategy Aligns Best with Consumer Behavior? Megan Adair, Senior Account Development Manager, Mediagistic; Jennifer Helton, Account Development Manager, Mediagistic; hosted by WHVACR Attendees will gain deep insight into how consumer behavior drives better HVAC marketing outcomes. Discover how focusing on repairs, rather than installations, can be a game-changer for the HVAC business, as we reveal industry secrets and case studies that showcase significant growth through service-to-installation strategies.  Revolutionizing the business with OpenAI Colleen Keyworth, Director of Sales & Marketing, Online Access, hosted by WHVACR Attendees will learn more about the transformative impact of OpenAI technologies in business, focusing on ethical applications to enhance problem-solving, creativity, and efficiency.  Engineers Decarbonizing Commercial and Industrial Heating with Hydrogen Part 1 Paul Glanville, Sr. R&D Director, GTI Energy; Vince McDonell, Director, UC Irvine Combustion Laboratory, UC Irvine, hosted by AHRI Part 1, What is the Decarbonization Potential, will introduce the current state of research to define the upper practical limit of using H2 to decarbonize large commercial and industrial heating equipment currently using natural gas, the structure of the project for the California Energy Commission with partners GTI Energy, UC Irvine, EPRI, AHRI, and other industry partners (AHRI members); provide the context for displacing natural gas in heating equipment with H2 as a blend or through full conversion to 100% H2 with an overview of key developments and demonstrations in North America; and review the project’s preliminary Technoeconomic Assessment of using H2 in commercial/industrial facilities throughout California and review the Technical Survey of current research regarding the practical limits of using H2 in heating equipment.  Advancing AI-Driven Microcontroller Solutions: Innovations and Applications David Kniepkamp, President, of Smart Controls, hosted by LonMark International Attendees will uncover the challenges and opportunities of implementing AI-driven microcontroller solutions in commercial buildings, supported by real-world case studies showcasing significant energy savings, improved operational efficiency, and enhanced tenant satisfaction.  Empowering our Workforce with Emotional Intelligence: Building a Sustainable Future Karine Leblanc, ASHRAE Distinguished Lecturer, Engineer, and Author of How to Be Human in a Technical World, hosted by AHR Expo What is Emotional Intelligence (EI)? In this session, visitors will discover the importance of EI for HVAC professionals in managing client demands and team communication under pressure. They will explore the science behind EI, and the benefits of high EI and learn how to create a personal action plan through developing strategies that enhance emotional intelligence to improve leadership and performance in demanding scenarios. For Credit Courses  AHR Expo attendees have the opportunity to participate in professional development courses through ASHRAE Learning Institute (ALI), as well as short courses/professional development seminars approved for Continuing Education Units (CEUs) that can apply toward maintaining P.E. licensure. Attendees are required to register and pay tuition fees in advance of the show and can do so either onsite or by visiting the ASHRAE registration website. Starting the Path to Net-Zero Buildings Using ASHRAE 90.1-2022 hosted by ASHRAE Learning Institute Led by McHenry Wallace, P.E., Member ASHRAE, LEED®AP; Intermediate 3 PDHs/AIA LUs | Check with the state for their continuing education credits requirements. $249 ($189 ASHRAE Members); early bird discounts may apply.  Changing Environments and Loads for Data Center (High Density, Liquid Cooling, Edge Computing) hosted by ASHRAE Learning Institute Led by Brandon Gill, P.E.; Jeff Stein, P.E.; Entry Level 3 PDHs/AIA LUs | Check with the state for their continuing education credits requirements. $249 ($189 ASHRAE Members); early bird discounts may apply.  Commercial Building Energy Audits hosted by ASHRAE Learning Institute Led by Joe Hofstetter, P.E.; Intermediate 6 PDHs/AIA LUs | $629 ($509 ASHRAE Members); early bird discounts may apply. Check with the state for their continuing education credits requirements.  New Product Theaters Attendees are invited to follow up presentations with a visit to the booth for a more in-depth explanation Attendees are encouraged to sit in on exhibitor presentations in the New Product Theater. More than 145 presentations lasting approximately 20 minutes each are planned across all three days of the show. These free presentations will provide brief overviews of new product announcements and technologies that can be found in exhibitor booths on the show floor. Attendees are invited to follow up presentations with a visit to the booth for a more in-depth explanation and 1:1 interaction with products and representatives. No fee or individual session registration is required, however, show registration is required.  Safely Handling Flammable Refrigerants in Heat Pumps hosted by Sensata Technologies Inc. The core of any Heat Pump is the balance between the temperature and pressure of the refrigerant which drives system efficiency and safety, particularly with the safety measures needed to manage R-290 refrigerant. This session addresses sensor-driven solutions to handle flammable refrigerants.  Faced with the AIM ACT: 3 Simple Steps to Reduce the Impact of Refrigeration hosted by MATELEX The refrigeration market is undergoing major changes. Regulations are limiting the availability of fluids with high global warming potential, leading to higher prices and supply difficulties. At the same time, refrigeration plant leakage rates and energy consumption remain high, posing a challenge for refrigeration professionals. Matelex offers a simple 3-step solution to reduce the environmental and financial impact of refrigeration and simplify the management of a fleet of installations.  Sustainable & Data-Driven Cooling: Güntner’s Intelligent IOT Solutions hosted by Güntner U.S. LLC Discover the Intelligent IOT Solutions that can contribute to a better future. Güntner’s Intelligent IOT Solutions bring significant water savings, energy efficiency, low maintenance, and other benefits. The First Step in the building Decarbonization Journey hosted by ABB HVAC Building Automation and Controls ABB Ability™ Building Analyzer tracks both building data (occupancy, equipment runtime hours, temperatures, and costs) and utilities (energy, gas, water, steam) in real-time and provides actionable insights to help users save money while improving energy efficiency, sustainability, and occupant awareness. Attendees can view the complete AHR Expo Education Program schedule, including the New Product Theaters, on the AHR Expo website. Additionally, attendees are encouraged to manage their show floor and education program agenda by creating a free MyShow Planner account and downloading the AHR Expo app.

Revised building codes, based on model “I-Codes” developed by the International Code Council (ICC), are being widely adopted to allow A2L refrigerants to be used in comfort air conditioning applications. Previously, the use of A2L refrigerants, which are “mildly flammable,” was not allowed by building codes in force in 2021 and before because of safety concerns.   benefits of A2Ls However, the benefits of using A2Ls instead of refrigerants with higher global warming potential (GWP) have led to their acceptance as a replacement for hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) in air conditioning applications. In response to the greater acceptance, driven by EPA refrigerant cutbacks, ICC has revised their building codes to permit the use of A2Ls, and local jurisdictions are in the process of adopting the revised building codes.  2024 I-Code changes Approved code changes in the 2024 IBC, IFC, and IMC allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants The 2024 I-Code changes facilitate compliance with new refrigerant requirements and support producers and refrigerant appliance manufacturers already transitioning to lower-GWP solutions such as A2Ls.  Approved code changes in the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), International Fire Code (IFC), and International Mechanical Code (IMC) allow commercial and residential use of A2L refrigerants to replace refrigerants. The use of A2L impacts all three intertwined sets of building codes, which have been undergoing the three-year amendment process since 2021.  model codes and standards The International Code Council is a global source of model codes and standards and building safety solutions that include product evaluation, accreditation, technology, training, and certification.  ICC is working with the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) to partner with the construction industry and to facilitate legislation to navigate this positive change.  The IBC, IMC, and IFC code revisions, all managed by ICC, have been approved; two finalized codes were published earlier in 2023 and the third is being released in November 2023. Building, mechanical, and Fire codes Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants The Building and Fire codes cover storage of A2Ls in a warehouse, while the Mechanical code covers requirements for installing equipment that uses A2Ls.   Building code revisions align with established safety standards regarding handling of A2L refrigerants, including ASHRAE 15 (Safety Standard for Refrigeration Systems), UL 484 (Room Air Conditioners), UL/CSA 60335-2-40 (refrigerant detector requirements) and UL/CSA 60335-2-89 (enabling higher charge limits for flammable refrigerants).   requirements of ASHRAE 15 In buildings where HVAC machinery is installed, the code changes reflect requirements of ASHRAE 15, such as no equipment with open flames, elevated temperature limits in a room, and refrigerant detection requirements that trigger a mechanical ventilation system in case of a leak. Any piping that carries A2L must be labeled as flammable with a warning. Condensers and evaporators will need to carry the familiar triangular flammability labels and “risk of fire explosion” verbiage, all consistent with the ASHRAE 15 standard.   Diamond-shaped labeling An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case “Diamond-shaped labeling must be displayed on packaging, storage, and containers so that anyone coming into a room knows there is flammable refrigerant there,” says Jim Cika, a director of technical resources for the International Code Council.   The codes cover safety requirements such as leak detection, ventilation requirements, and “flammable” labeling. An interlock requirement ensures ventilation processes are implemented in case of a detected leak of A2L gas.  storage and warehousing “The biggest concern is proper storage and warehousing,” says Jim Cika. “Due to flammability, there are significant additional storage requirements compared to HFC. Distributors have to be prepared with appropriate space and labeling requirements, especially when the materials are being stored in bulk and large quantities.”  A2L code provisions The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants ICC has created a website that provides relevant A2L code provisions including documents with specific wording related to code changes. Some states adopt the codes state-wide, while other “home-rule” states leave the adoption of the codes to the individual local jurisdictions. The code changes are required to enable builders to transition to A2L refrigerants.   new codes ICC has been publicizing the code changes with the help of a grassroots effort with AHRI. “We have put our code provisions out there so everybody knows what they need to be concerned about and to be ready for inspection,” says Cika. The new codes are coordinated with the EPA and the requirements of the SNAP programs. “We are all on the same page,” he says.  installation of new equipment After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant Up to 25 lbs. of A2L refrigerant can be transported without any hazardous material restrictions; in effect, installers and contractors can transport A2L just as they did HFC.  Transitioning to A2L refrigerants involves the installation of new equipment since the legacy equipment that uses HFCs is not compatible with the new refrigerants. After 2025, new equipment will no longer use HFCs but will need to use A2Ls or another low-GWP refrigerant. transition to A2Ls Technicians will still be able to service and maintain existing equipment installed in the field for the rest of its useful life. With equipment using both types of refrigerant operating among various customers, technicians will need to be able to work on either type of system during the transition period.  Phased down and limited supplies of HFCs, as ordained by EPA regulations, will likely push installers and their customers to the newer technologies using A2Ls.