The International Code Council (ICC) expressed its “deepest condolences to the families and loved ones who suffered losses at the Ghost Ship artist venue in Oakland, California,” which killed 36 people on December 2. “This tragedy highlights the importance of adopting current building, electrical, and life safety codes. Adopting and enforcing the latest codes and standards is the most efficient and effective method of creating safe buildings and communities. Cities, counties and states should review their safety codes to verify they meet the latest standards, and ensure enforcement of the codes by supporting the important responsibility of their code and fire officials,” the ICC’s e-News reported. The artist collective included dwelling units and was hosting a concert at the time of the fire. Neither residential nor entertainment uses were allowed under the warehouse’s permits. In an interview, Oakland City Council member Noel Gallo said that city officials “need to enforce the codes that we have” and that “we should have been more assertive in the past.” — Source: ICCeNews and other reports
