Updated 10/20/2020
07/07/2020 Summary of ARC work group meeting on IRC, IPC and Wis. Plbg. Code; and draft ARC statement on code coordination
Greetings!
Attached is the summary of the ARC work group meeting on the International Residential Code, International Plumbing Code and Wisconsin Plumbing Code.
Along with the meeting summary you will find a draft statement on coordination of the Wisconsin Uniform Dwelling Code with the Wisconsin Plumbing Code and Wisconsin Electrical Code, for all ARC members to consider. Please review the draft statement and send any comments or suggestions to me by the end of business on July 31, 2020.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
07/06/2020 DSPS Emergency Rule Update for ARC Members
Robert G. DuPont
07/03/2020 July NWBIA Meeting Updates
It is time for some more updates about coming events.
The Covid-19 has been making group face to face meetings very difficult.
The April 2020 State Building Inspectors Institute has been officially cancelled for this year.
The 2021 State Building Inspectors Institute is scheduled for April 21-23 in Eau Claire at the Lismore Hotel. The 2022 meeting is scheduled back in southern WI.
John Dahl will be retiring, and we need someone to step up and be our Associations contact to help with the Winter Code update planning meeting. The meeting is set up for Wed July 15 at the Wintergreen resort in Lake Delton at 10 AM.
There will also be a Zoom meeting available if you cannot make it. I am looking for volunteers. Let me know if you can help.
Due to the ongoing pandemic and lack of definite planning the July NWBIA meeting and the August Outing will be cancelled.
At this time, the State Plumbing Inspectors Institute will still be taking place in Eau Claire on September 23-24 at the Lismore Hotel. I would recommend that the NWBIA pay for the registration fee for all members that would like to attend like we did last year. If there are other ideas let me know.
I am still planning on having the December meeting in Baldwin. Hope it will work.
That is all for now
Craig Moriak
moriak.ent@gmail.com
7/1/2020 Report to ARC on DSPS Rule Change Projects
Greetings!
DSPS Rule Change Monthly Chart 2020-7-1
Attached is the latest report on current DSPS rule change projects. Changes since the last report are shown in red.
The new Fee Schedule for Commercial Electrical Inspections went into effect today.
There are no posted meetings of any DSPS code committees or councils concerning safety and buildings programs.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
Robert G. DuPont
6/30/2020 ARC video meetings
Greetings!
As you may recall, ARC video meetings are being accomplished via “Google Meet”. In order to participate via Google Meet, you need to have a Google account, which is free. If you already use GMail, you are all set. You can set up a free Google account by following this link. You can continue using any email provider you choose. You can set up your Google account on your personal mobile phone, in case your employer’s computer system does not utilize GMail or other Google services.
As a reminder, there is an ARC video meeting scheduled for 9 am on Thursday, July 2nd, concerning the fire sprinkler and floor protection aspects of the IRC. And the next ARC Member Meeting, via video, is set for 9 am on Tuesday, July 28th.
Thank you!
Robert G. DuPont
6/30/2020 JULY GOVERNMENT RELATIONS UPDATE
2020 July ICC Government Relations Monthly Update (final)
Hello all!
Attached is the July Government Relations Update.
Have a safe and happy 4th of July!
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
6/30/2020 City of Burlington job posting
The City of Burlington is looking for a new company or individual for an ordinance enforcement officer and property maintenance. Please send any recommendations or have them contact me at gguidry@burlington-wi.gov.
Thanks for the help. Stay safe
Gregory Guidry
Building Inspector
300 N. Pine Street
Burlington, WI 53105
262-342-1164
6/22/2020 Emergency Rule 2015 on Fire Prevention and Electrical Inspections
Greetings!
The Department of Safety and Professional Services has issued Emergency Rule 2015, relating to fire prevention and electrical inspections. The objective of the rule is to, in the interest of slowing the spread of COVID-19, prevent inspectors from having to unnecessarily come into contact with individuals on multiple job sites. The Emergency Rule goes into effect tomorrow, June 23rd, and expires on November 19, 2020. Comments on the emergency rule can be submitted here.
Relative to fire prevention inspections, the rule allows postponement of inspections at the discretion of the fire chief. Although the rule does not address fire dues distribution, it is my understanding that Department staff understands the unusual challenges caused by the pandemic, and will exercise good judgment when making determinations relative to “substantial compliance” with the fire inspection mandates found in the statutes.
Relative to electrical inspections, an affidavit from the master electrical, to the electric utility will be accepted in lieu of an inspection, under circumstances outlined in the rule.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
6/19/2020 ARC Member Meeting
ARC Member Meeting
When Tue Jul 28, 2020 9am – 11am Central Time – Chicago
Where Video Conference via Google Meet
6/15/2020 Recommendations to improve DSPS plan review services
ARC paper on DSPS plan review situation 2020-6-15
Letter to DSPS Secretary-Designee Dawn Crim about additional positions 2019-10-21
Letter to DSPS Secretary Crim about commercial building plan review 2020-1-6
DSPS Commercial Buildings Plan Review White Paper 2020 -1-6
Plan Review Participation Fee White Paper 2020-3-3
DSPS Plan Review Timeliness Measure White Paper 2020-5-4
Greetings!
Last week two ARC member organizations discussed with me the situation concerning DSPS plan review services for commercial buildings; including fire alarm, fire suppression, and plumbing systems. As a result, I developed the attached summary of ARC recommendations concerning DSPS plan review operations for reference by all ARC members. Also attached are documents referenced in the summary of ARC recommendations.
Going forward, I will continue dialogue with interested ARC members relative to possible plan review related code changes that could be promulgated as emergency rules during 2020. Please let me know if you have any specific ideas or suggestions in that regard.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
—
Robert G. DuPont
6/15/2020 June ICC Monthly Chapter Report
2020 _June_ICC_Chapter_Monthly_Update FINAL
Good morning everyone,
I do apologize for the delay in getting this out. I hope you are doing well!
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
06/08/2020 Two new DSPS rule change projects proposed
Greetings!
The DSPS has announced Statements of Scope for two proposed rule change projects.
The first, SS 059-20, relates to providing a means to postpone portions of certain DSPS occupational license examinations.
The second, SS 069-20, relates to recreational and educational camps, and is the result of 2019 Wisconsin Act 130, which requires the Department to promulgate rules that contain separate standards within the Wisconsin Commercial Building Code, the Wisconsin Electrical Code and the Wisconsin Plumbing Code, concerning recreational and educational camps. The Department indicates that it will consult with several applicable code councils, although it does not mention the Electrical Code Council. Perhaps that was an oversight. I will check into that and report my findings.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
Robert G. DuPont
06/08/2020 Two new DSPS rule change projects proposed
Greetings!
The DSPS has announced Statements of Scope for two proposed rule change projects.
The first, SS 059-20, relates to providing a means to postpone portions of certain DSPS occupational license examinations.
The second, SS 069-20, relates to recreational and educational camps, and is the result of 2019 Wisconsin Act 130, which requires the Department to promulgate rules that contain separate standards within the Wisconsin Commercial Building Code, the Wisconsin Electrical Code and the Wisconsin Plumbing Code, concerning recreational and educational camps. The Department indicates that it will consult with several applicable code councils, although it does not mention the Electrical Code Council. Perhaps that was an oversight. I will check into that and report my findings.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
Robert G. DuPont
06/05/2020 The Boring Company
Elon Musks “The Boring Company” TBC news. In this article is a link to a video when the tunneling machine breaks through. The view is from the “business end” .
https://www.paintsquare.com/news/?fuseaction=view&id=22522&nl_versionid=6118
06/04/2020 ARC meeting on sprinklers and fire protection for floor assemblies
Greetings!
Please use this Doodle Poll to let me know of your interest and availability to participate in a video meeting concerning: sprinklers as a design option; and fire protection of floor assemblies not using 2×10 dimensional lumber, or equivalent. The purpose of this meeting is to develop a recommendation to all ARC members relative to these topics.
Please respond to the poll by end of business on Thursday, June 18, 2020. Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Background
The IRC requires new homes to be equipped with automatic fire sprinkler systems; either stand-alone systems, or multi-purpose systems (that are part of the plumbing water distribution system). Wisconsin statutes address proposed rules that would increase the cost of dwellings. These statutory provisions would likely preclude adoption of the IRC sprinkler provisions as a mandate.
The IRC requires new homes to provide fire protection for certain floor assemblies with the intent to ensure a minimum level of fire performance for floors in homes that are not otherwise required to be fire-resistance rated. These requirements are meant to protect occupants and fire-fighters from falling through fire-weakened floors made of light-weight materials. Discussion of fire protection for floors made of light-weight materials began after incidents where responding fire fighters fell through fire-weakened floors resulting in injury or death. The provisions primarily impact floors over basements. As noted above relative to automatic fire sprinklers, Wisconsin statutes address proposed rules that would increase the cost of dwellings. Those statutory provisions may preclude adoption of the IRC floor protection provisions as a mandate.
Robert G. DuPont
06/04/2020 ARC meeting on International Plumbing Code
Greetings!
Please use this Doodle Poll to let me know of your interest and availability to participate in a video meeting concerning IRC Adoption in Relation to the International Plumbing Code (IPC) and the Wisconsin Plumbing Code. The purpose of this video meeting is to develop a recommendation to all ARC members relative to the IPC.
Please respond to the poll by end of business on Thursday, June 11, 2020. Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Background
Discussion of IRC adoption in Wisconsin may lead to thoughts about also adopting the International Plumbing Code as the basis for the Wisconsin Plumbing Code. In an effort to promote industry training, the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors (PHCC) Association has become a corporate partner of the ICC. However, the PHCC-National does not endorse any code over what is preferred and adopted by the local PHCC’s jurisdiction. Do date, the PHCC of Wisconsin has preferred Wisconsin not adopt the IPC.
Robert G. DuPont
06/03/2020 ARC activities on IRC adoption
Greetings!
Action Plan for Advocating IRC Adoption in Wisconsin 2020-6-3
IRC Preferred Model Code White Paper 2020-6-3
Model Code Adoption in Wisconsin White Paper 2020-6-3
IRC Most Feasible Option White Paper 2020-6-3
Thank you for reviewing the draft action plan for advocating IRC adoption in Wisconsin, sent to you on May 19th. Although I received several comments, the current plan is unchanged from the draft version, and is attached for your use. Also attached are the latest versions of the three white papers prepared on this topic.
At the suggestion of Scott Satula, and Tim Schmitz, the white paper entitled “The International Residential Code – The preferred model code for new homes in the United States”, was changed to more fully explain the entire IRC code development process instead of the previous focus on IRC committee make-up. And at the suggestion of Jim Smith, the white paper entitled “Model Code Adoption in Wisconsin – History and Process”, was modified slightly to clarify that when Wisconsin amends model code language during the code adoption process, the amended language is applied in Wisconsin – not the unamended model code language.
I will next set up two video meetings for any interested ARC members to participate in. One meeting will deal with IRC adoption in relation to the International Plumbing Code and Wisconsin Plumbing Code. The other meeting will deal with fire sprinklers as a design option, and fire protection of floor assemblies.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
—
Robert G. DuPont
06/03/2020 July ARC Member Meeting Video Conference
Greetings!
It’s time to start planning when to hold the next ARC Member Meeting.
Please follow this link to the Doodle poll to indicate your availability during the last two weeks of July for a video conference meeting. Please respond to the poll by end of business on Thursday, June 18, 2020.
During this meeting we will discuss progress on ARC priorities during the past year, and will discuss ARC priorities for the next 12 months. As in the past, before the meeting I will send a progress report on current priorities along with recommended priorities for the next 12 months. Due to the planning nature of this meeting, there will be no meeting of the ARC Fire Safety Team after the Member Meeting.
Thank you for your involvement and support!
—
Robert G. DuPont
06/02/2020 Updated report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects
Greetings!
Attached is an updated report on current DSPS rule change projects. Changes since yesterday’s report are shown in bold red. Additions to this report are:
The DSPS has published Scope Statement SS 055-20, regarding COVID-19 Emergency Rules on Fire Prevention and Electrical Inspections.
The new Fee Schedule for Commercial Electrical Inspections is set to be published on June 29th and effective on July 1, 2020.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
DSPS Rule Change Monthly Chart 2020-6-2
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Robert G. DuPont
06/01/2020 Report to ARC on DSPS Rule Change Projects
Greetings!
Attached is the latest report on current DSPS rule change projects. Changes since the last report are shown in red.
The proposed rules on Inspection of Fire and Smoke Dampers was withdrawn by the DSPS on May 28, 2020.
The revised Conveyance Safety Code went into effect today, June 1, 2020.
The proposed Fee Schedule for Commercial Electrical Inspections cleared the JCRAR on May 21, 2020. The new fees will probably go into effect on July 1, or August 1, 2020.
There are no posted meetings of any DSPS code committees or councils concerning safety and buildings programs.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
—
Robert G. DuPont
06/01/2020 June 18 NWBIA/ ICC Training meeting has been canceled
05/28/2020 Tim Schmitz of ICC on two week furlough
I hope this email finds you and your family safe and healthy.
In response to the current economic environment, the Code Council has taken and will be taking precautions to streamline operations and reduce expenses. My contribution to this effort will be a two week furlough beginning on May 31st and ending on June 13th. Unfortunately, I will be unable to perform any work functions during that time. You can still email me, but I will not receive it until after the 13th. My Government Relations colleague, Corey Roblee, will be available to address any business on my behalf during my furlough. His email is croblee@iccsafe.org and phone is 888-422-7233 ext. 7202.
As you may know, the Code Council has opted to cancel our fall conference for health and safety concerns. However, we are continuing to offer virtual training, webinars, certification and evaluation. In light of this pandemic, our family of solutions offers products and services useful to every facet of our industry, so be sure to monitor our announcements and flow of information.
Also know that many of our Chapters have been meeting at the Board level and entire Chapter using virtual technology. Karla Higgs has graciously offered her Zoom account to any Chapter that would like to use this technology. Her email is khiggs@iccsafe.org if you would like to contact her for the Zoom information. This has been a wonderful opportunity to meet and train so I encourage you to use this platform and continue sharing your knowledge with your colleagues.
I have been busy advocating for CARES Act resources to be directed to the built environment… contacting Governors, Cabinet Secretaries, Department heads, County Executives, Mayors, etc. I encourage you to promote your services and departments because distribution plans for stimulus dollars is still being developed at the state and local level. I’ll try to remain vigilant in sharing my letters with you in more direct correspondence (per state or jurisdiction), so that you can help me disseminate information and get it into the hands of decision-makers. I encourage you to monitor our Coronavirus Response Center, where we post that latest relevant information and resources.
I’m still “on the clock” for another day, so feel free to reach me if need be. Otherwise, I will be back in touch after June 13th.
Stay safe, my friends!
Tim
5/26/2020 Fwd: Remote permitting and inspection webinar
Solar information for AHJ
Greetings!
Please see the email below from Jim Boullion, of RENEW Wisconsin, regarding remote permit and inspection practices for solar installations. Due to the pandemic, remotely provided services have been utilized more frequently, raising the possibility for long term use of such remote services.
If anyone would like to participate in a discussion of remote permit and inspection services, for solar installations, with RENEW Wisconsin, please let me know, and I will make arrangements with Jim for a teleconference. Such discussions could kick start discussions on the long range viability of such remote services, not only for solar installations, but also for other facets of building construction.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
———- Forwarded message ———
From: Jim Boullion <jim@renewwisconsin.org>
Date: Thu, May 21, 2020 at 1:28 PM
Subject: Re: Remote permitting and inspection webinar
To: Bob DuPont <robertgdupont@gmail.com>
Cc: Heather Allen <heather@renewwisconsin.org>, Michael Vickerman <mvickerman@renewwisconsin.org>, Mike McNally <Michaeld.mcnally@wisconsin.gov>
Bob,
I wanted to follow up on the email I sent last month that you forwarded to your ARC members on digital solar permitting and remote inspection. For anyone who was not able to watch the webinars live, recordings are now available on the IREC website. They answer many of the questions that you or the local officials might have about online permitting and remote inspections.
As a result of COVID-19 safety issues the solar industry is seeing many permitting authorities all around the country move solar PV permit and plan review applications on-line and many are now inspecting PV systems remotely. Both the ICC and NFPA have webinars on how to safely and effectively do these remote inspection. Attached are some notes and resources that I have put together for AHJ’s on how to do those remote inspections and online permitting.
With the health concerns and budget implications of the Coronavirus pandemic, now would be an especially beneficial time to look into these better and more efficient ways to do permitting and inspections for solar projects. These time and cost savings will benefit local governments, solar contractors and local PV owners.
If any members of ARC would be interested, we would be glad to find local solar contractors who would be willing to work with them to give the remote inspections a try to see if they would work well for everyone.
As mentioned in the attached materials, NREL is leading an effort to develop an online solar permitting software called SolarAPP that will be free to use for any local or state inspector. It can be used as a standalone application, or can be linked to work with existing Municiple permitting software. NREL is looking for municipalities across the country who would be interested in this software as a way to improve their services and again, to save time and money. NREL is working right now on the final version of the software and would welcome any municipality who would like to give it a test. They hope to have version 1.0 ready for distribution to everyone by July.
Thanks for your interest and let me know if you or any of your ARC members would like to follow up on these items.
Best regards,
Jim Boullion
Director of Government Affairs
RENEW Wisconsin
jim@renewwisconsin.org
Office:(608) 255-4044 – ext 4
Cell: (608) 695-7004
On Apr 3, 2020, at 3:37 PM, Robert DuPont <robertgdupont@gmail.com> wrote:
Greetings!
Jim Boullion, with RENEW Wisconsin, provided the following information on a webinar concerning remote permitting and inspection, set for Monday, April 6th. The webinar was developed by the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) and the Sustainable Energy Action Committee (SEAC) hosted by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC). Thank you for your interest in this matter!
This webinar is for building officials and inspectors to help them learn how to permit electronically and inspect remotely. The webinar has limited space so please send this to building officials and inspectors but don’t take up space on the webinar if you yourself are not a building official or inspector.
Webinar for Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs, or building, permitting or inspection officials):
When: Monday, April 6th, 2:00 ET/11:00 PT
Webinar registration link: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/295249153/success?user_id=AdGvLiUcRMmnroyLBlUgfw&timezone_id=America%2FNew_York
Permitting and Inspection Resource for Solar Companies
If you are not a building official or inspector, you can learn more at SEIA’s Permitting and Inspections Options during COVID-19 page.
https://www.seia.org/research-resources/permitting-options-solar-installations-covid19
—
Robert G. DuPont
5/26/2020 Revised Conveyance Safety Code
Greetings!
The revised Wisconsin Conveyance Safety Code, Clearinghouse Rule 19-118, was published in the Administrative Register today, and will go into effect on June First.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
5/26/2020 ARC Press Release on training the next generation
Greetings!
Attached is the ARC press release for week 4 of Building Safety Month. The release was issued last evening and appeared in this morning’s Wheeler Report.
Thank you for your interest and support!
2020 ARC Building Safety Month Week 4 Press Release
—
Robert G. DuPont
5/21/2020 Draft ARC Action Plan on IRC Adoption comparison spreadsheet
IRC-UDC Comparison Spreadsheet-3-23-10
Hello Diane:
Thank you for your response and interest in learning more about the IRC in relation to the UDC. I don’t have a summary of the differences between the current IRC and the UDC. I understand that fire sprinklers and wood floor fire protection are two of the most significant differences between the current IRC and UDC.
The last comprehensive side by side comparison between the IRC and UDC was the one conducted over ten years ago through a joint effort involving the Building Inspectors Association of South East Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Builders Association and the Metropolitan Builders Association. Attached is a chart showing the results of that comparison effort, which involved the 2009 edition of the IRC.
I suggest that ARC support for adoption of the IRC be premised on the expectation that another comparison would be conducted by the DSPS in concert with the UDC Council. I believe it should be the ARC position and expectation that during that comparison process any concerns with IRC provisions should be addressed through Wisconsin-specific amendments, which would apply to Wisconsin home construction.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
On Wed, May 20, 2020 at 12:34 PM Diane Welhouse <diane@narimilwaukee.org> wrote:
Hi Robert – there is a lot involved here regarding sprinklers, flooring and plumbing codes. Can you provide a summary of ALL differences between current UDC code and proposed IRC adoption? Without knowing the specific proposed changes, which will ideally disclose pros and cons, we can’t decide on whether this is something we would support or not.
Diane Welhouse, CKBR | Executive Director
5/19/2020 Draft ARC Action Plan on IRC Adoption
Greetings!
Action Plan for Advocating IRC Adoption in Wisconsin 2020-5-19
Attached for your review and consideration is a draft action plan for advocating IRC adoption in Wisconsin. The first page shows proposed actions, and the following two pages contain information about the three topics that I suggest we reach internal agreement on before substantially discussing this initiative with other other entities: 1) sprinklers as a design option; 2) fire protection of floor assemblies; and 3) IRC adoption in relation to the International Plumbing Code and Wisconsin Plumbing Code.
Please review the draft action plan and information and send me comments or suggestions by end of business on Friday, May 29, 2020. If anyone has more information to share concerning the three topics for internal discussion please share that information with me.
If the action plan looks good, I will set up video meetings in June using “Google Meet”. At this point I envision two video meetings; one dealing with sprinklers and fire protection of floor assemblies, and the other dealing with the plumbing code.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
5/18/2020 ARC Press Release on resiliency, sustainability and innovation
Greetings!
2020 ARC Building Safety Month Week 3 Press Release
Attached is the ARC press release for week 3 of Building Safety Month. The release was issued last evening and appeared in this morning’s Wheeler Report.
Thank you for your interest and support!
Robert G. DuPont
5/12/2020 Report on fire and smoke damper proposal
Greetings!
It was reported yesterday that, on May 8th, the Senate Committee on Utilities and Housing objected to the Clearinghouse Rule 19-154, which relates to the inspection of fire and smoke dampers. The DSPS proposal next goes to the Joint Committee for the Review of Administrative Rules for consideration.
Thank you for your interest in this matter.
Robert G. DuPont
5/12/2020 Innovation in Concrete Construction | Webinar
ACI webinars are delivered by industry experts and feature popular concrete topics. The webinars and attendance certificates are administered through ACI University. They are also recorded for viewing at a later date. Both live and recorded versions offer continuing education credit.
Upcoming Webinars
May 19: Innovation in Concrete Construction: Performance-Based Testing of Fresh Concrete – Tyler Ley and Anne Ellis (1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT)
individual purchase / 10-pack purchase
June 2: Controlling and Preventing Cracks in Concrete Flatwork – Tim Cost (1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT)
individual purchase / 10-pack purchase
July 14: Hot Weather – Tarek Khan, Terry Harris, and Phil Brandt (1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT)
(Available for purchase soon)
August 4: President’s Series – Development of ACI 314R-16 Guide to Simplified Design for Reinforced Concrete Buildings – Luis Garcia (1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT)
(Available for purchase soon)
August 18: Development of ACI 314R-16 Guide to Simplified Design for Reinforced Concrete Buildings (Presented in Spanish) – Luis Garcia (1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT)
(Available for purchase soon)
September 1: Shotcrete – Charles Hanskat and Marc Jolin (1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT)
(Available for purchase soon)
October 6: Self-Consolidating Concrete – Stacia Van Zetten (1:00 – 2:00 PM EDT)
(Available for purchase soon)
November 3: Cold Weather – John Gnaedinger and Tim West (1:00- 2:00 PM EST)
(Available for purchase soon)
December 1: Corrosion Mitigation – David Whitmore (1:00- 2:00 PM EST)
(Available for purchase soon)
5/11/2020 Badger Bounce back plan
Here is a link to the plan
https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/publications/p02653a.pdf
Dan
05/11/2020 Gov. Evers Announces Another Turn of the Dial for Wisconsin Businesses
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 11, 2020 |
| Contact: GovPress@wisconsin.gov or 608-219-7443 |
| Gov. Evers Announces Another Turn of the Dial for Wisconsin Businesses |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today announced another turn of the dial on Safer at Home to add even more opportunities for Wisconsin businesses to get back to work in a safe and responsible way.
Emergency Order #36, signed today by Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary-designee Andrea Palm, allows all standalone or strip-mall based retail stores to offer in-person shopping for up to five customers at a time while maintaining required social distancing practices. Additionally, the Emergency Order signed today allows drive-in theaters to operate with some restrictions. All businesses must continue to follow all safety precautions and guidelines as outlined in the Safer at Home order. “In addition to added flexibilities and steps we have already taken for businesses, this is another disciplined turn of the dial that will allow Wisconsin’s business owners to safely get back to work and Wisconsin consumers to support their favorite local spots,” said Gov. Evers. “Both customers and workers need to be confident in their safety, so we need everyone to be diligent in following best safety practices so we can continue to move our state forward while keeping our neighbors, families, and communities safe and healthy.” Today’s order builds upon the Safer at Home order and the last turn of the dial through Emergency Order #34, which together allowed golf courses to operate, aesthetic and optional lawn and construction services provided by a single employee, curbside pick-up for public libraries, and every business to provide deliveries, mailings, and curbside pick-up and drop-off services. Emergency Order #36 is available here and goes into effect immediately. If you have questions regarding Emergency Order #36, please review the frequently asked questions document available here. In addition to the requirements outlined above, all essential and nonessential businesses must review and consider the Wisconsin Department of Economic Development guidelines on safe business practices, available here. |
05/11/2020 ARC Press Release on Water Safety
Greetings!
Attached is the ARC press release for week 2 of Building Safety Month. The release was issued last evening and appears in this morning’s Wheeler Report.
Thank you for your interest and support!
2020 ARC Building Safety Month Week 2 Press Release
—
Robert G. DuPont
05/11/2020 Message from the NWBIA president
NWBIA May Cancelations and updates
Due to the Safer-at-Home Declaration the NWBIA Meeting in River Falls for May 21, 2020 has been canceled.
The August annual outing scheduled for the Big Top Chautauqua has been canceled by the Big Top owners.
We are looking for some ideas, for the outing, that could fit into the strange times we are living in and still be safe.
One suggestion is a Canoe trip with a possible picnic or other type of meal. We will talk about this at a future meeting or over emails.
The Postponed April State Building Inspectors Institute has not been rescheduled yet.
The last I read, the State Plumbing Inspectors Institute scheduled in Eau Claire on Sept 23-25 may have a date change. Stay tuned.
The NWBIA June meeting is still scheduled for Thursday June 18 at the Stout Ale House in Menomonie. It will be our free 1-day training from the ICC. The training will be on the 2015 Mixed Occupancies and 2015 Special Building Types and Features.
The Presenter at this meeting will be Douglas Thornburg, VP and Technical Director of products and services for the ICC.
There will be 6 hrs. of Commercial Building Inspector CEU’s available. I hope we can make this one work.
This is all I have for now. Please contact me if you have questions or more information.
Craig Moriak
05/08/2020 Inspection and testing of fire and smoke dampers
Greetings!
Today, at 1 p.m., the Senate Committee on Utilities and Housing is set to hold an executive session on Clearinghouse Rule 19-154, relating to the inspection and testing of fire and smoke dampers. Committee members will vote by paper ballot, with responses due by 5 p.m. today. A copy of the meeting notice is attached.
In early April, this committee had requested a meeting with the DSPS concerning the proposal. The committee’s review period ends on May 9th.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
20-05-08_ExecSessionNotice_SSC_Utilities_and_Housing
—
Robert G. DuPont
05/08/2020 Gov. Evers Announces Best Practices and Safety Guidelines for Wisconsin Businesses
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: May 8, 2020 |
| Contact: GovPress@wisconsin.gov or 608-219-7443 |
| Gov. Evers Announces Best Practices and Safety Guidelines for Wisconsin Businesses |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers announced today that businesses looking to keep workers, customers, and families safe while “turning the dial” toward reopening can now draw on a series of publications to keep them informed of best practices and safety tips.
The brochures include general guidelines for all businesses to follow as well as industry-specific advice, such as for restaurants, retailers, manufacturers, professional offices, farmers, manufacturers, builders, hotel and motel operators, barbers, personal care services and other fields. “Wisconsin businesses have done a great job in adapting to our state’s Safer at Home order,” Gov. Evers said. “As we begin to ‘turn the dial,’ they need to know how to reopen safely so that employees and customers can feel confident when they return.” The guides were developed by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) in consultation with the Departments of Health Services, Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, and Tourism, as well as and industry experts and associations. “What these guides really aim to do is provide actionable advice for businesses, especially small businesses, as they begin the road back to reopening,” said WEDC Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes. “The guides answer basic questions, such as how to handle transactions at cash registers, what to do about merchandise that’s been handled by customers, and how to set up an office using social distancing strategies.” Some of the general advice for businesses includes:
Gov. Evers said the reopening of state businesses will continue to be guided by the health care metrics contained in the Badger Bounce Back plan, which include tracking new cases of COVID-19, assessing available medical resources to cope with COVID cases, and ensuring adequate testing and mitigation resources. Copies of the guide will be available on the WEDC website at: https://wedc.org/reopen-guidelines. |
05/05/2020 Corrected Building Safety Month Proclamation
Greetings!
Attached is a corrected Building Safety Month proclamation from the Governor. After I sent you the original proclamation I noticed that the date of signing was mistakenly identified as May 20, instead of April 20. I notified the DSPS of that error and it has been corrected. The attached proclamation has the right date.
— 2020_Proclamation_Building Safety Month_IM-1
Robert G. DuPont
05/04/2020 Building Safety Month 2020: Join us Thursday, May 7th as we discuss disaster preparedness with the experts!
| Join us during May for a series of free webinars about building safety, the codes, and the effects of COVID-19 on the construction industry | |||||||||
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Don’t miss the rest of the series:
A special thank you to the sponsors that made this series possible: |
05/04/2020 ARC recommendations on measuring plan review services
Greetings ARC members!
Please see the email below, along with attachments, related to measuring DSPS plan review services. I waited a month to send this recommendation to the DSPS due to the pandemic taking so much State attention during April. Thank you for your interest in this matter!
———- Forwarded message ———
From: Robert DuPont <robertgdupont@gmail.com>
Date: Mon, May 4, 2020 at 2:29 PM
Subject: ARC recommendations on measuring plan review services
To: Crim, Dawn – DSPS <dawn.crim1@wisconsin.gov>
Cc: Dan Hereth <daniel.hereth@wisconsin.gov>, Bill Babcock <bill@aiaw.org>, Brad Boycks <bboycks@wisbuild.org>, John Schulze <jschulze@abcwi.org>
Dear Secretary Crim,
Please see the attached letter and white paper from the Alliance for Regulatory Coordination concerning measurement of DSPS plan review availability and timeliness.
Letter to DSPS Secretary Crim about measuring plan review services 1.0 2020-5-4
DSPS Plan Review Timeliness Measure White Paper 2020-5-4
Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or would like to discuss this matter.
Thank you!
—
Robert G. DuPont
05/04/2020 Report to ARC on DSPS Rule Change Projects
Greetings!
Attached is the latest report on current DSPS rule change projects. Changes since the last report are shown in red.
The revised Conveyance Safety Code is set to go into effect on June 1, 2020. There are no posted meetings of any DSPS code committees or councils.
— DSPS Rule Change Monthly Chart 2020-5-4
Robert G. DuPont
05/04/2020 Building Safety Month in Wisconsin
Greetings!
Governor Evers has proclaimed May, 2020, as Building Safety Month (BSM) in Wisconsin. The proclamation is attached.
2020_Proclamation_Building Safety Month_IM
2020 ARC Building Safety Month Week 1 Press Release
2020 ARC Building Safety Month Governor Proclamation Press Release
Also attached is the ARC press release for week one of BSM – which came out this morning, and the ARC press release concerning the Governors proclamation, which is planned for tomorrow morning.
Thank you for your interest and support!
—
Robert G. DuPont
05/01/2020 Monthly Chapter Update
Happy May and Building Safety Month! Enclosed, please find the monthly Chapter update for distribution to your Members.
Be safe!
Tim
04/30/2020 State spending reduction
Greetings!
You can follow this link to view the DOA email sent to state employees yesterday about a 5% cut in state GPR spending during state fiscal year 2019-20, which ends on June 30, 2020.
Since the safety and buildings related programs of the DSPS are PRO – Program Revenue, the announce cuts should not significantly affect those program operations.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
04/28/2020 Coronavirus situation in Wisconsin update
Greetings!
I hope you, your families, and your associates are safe and well.
Shown below are two links to websites that provide information about the Coronavirus situation in Wisconsin. These sites may help us see when Wisconsin might get back to some version of normal. Please let me know how I might further help you and your organizations during these unusual times.
COVID-19: The Badger Bounce Back, by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
COVID-19 Situational Awareness Update, by the Wisconsin Hospital Association.
Robert G. DuPont
4/21/2020 Draft ARC White Papers on IRC Adoption
Greetings!
I hope everyone is healthy during this time of pandemic and social distancing. I realize many of you are focused on adjusted priorities and on providing services remotely.
While hunkered down in my home office, I have focused on a long-term priority of the ARC. I drafted the attached three white papers concerning Wisconsin adoption of the International Residential Code. As you may recall, advocating for adoption of the IRC was determined an ARC priority during the ARC member meeting in July, 2019.
Each draft white paper focuses on a distinct aspect related to IRC adoption. The first paper explains the legislated purpose of the Uniform Dwelling Code; the statutory direction to use nationally recognized standards where feasible; and the goal of promoting interstate uniformity in construction standards. The second paper explains how the IRC became the preferred model code for new homes in the U.S. And the third paper covers the topic of model code adoption in Wisconsin.
Audiences for these papers include DSPS leadership, the Governor’s Office, Legislators, trade and professional groups and the general public. I left technical details and considerations out of the white papers because I believe such level of detail is better addressed through discussion among interested parties.
Please review the draft white papers and send me comments or suggestions by end of business on Friday, May 1, 2020. Of course, if you need more time due to the pandemic situation, simply let me know.
In the mean time, I will draft a proposed plan for moving forward with this advocacy project. As discussed during the last general ARC member meeting in January, it would be helpful for ARC member groups to reach general agreement on a framework for IRC adoption, especially as it relates to fire sprinklers as a design option instead of a mandatory requirement. Depending on the pandemic situation, we might be able to work on reaching such agreement over the next few months.
Adoption of the IRC does not require any changes in state statutes. The DSPS can initiate consideration of the IRC by developing a code change project Scope Statement. Of course legislative committees would eventually be involved in reviewing any DSPS proposal to adopt the IRC. Therefore, it will be helpful to have other interested parties on board with the idea. The Wisconsin Builders Association, League of Wisconsin Municipalities, and the Wisconsin Housing Alliance (factory built housing) will all be crucial.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
IRC Most Feasible Option White Paper 2020-4-21
IRC Preferred Model Code White Paper 2020-4-21
Model Code Adoption in Wisconsin White Paper 2020-4-21
—
Robert G. DuPont
4/20/2020 Elevator Inspector” and “Residential Code Enforcement Inspector” ~ City of Milwaukee ~ Now accepting applications!
Greetings ~
I am networking with you about two positions in the Department of Neighborhood Services-City of Milwaukee in case you know someone who is seeking a new opportunity!
Residential Code Enforcement Inspector:
- Enter the world of building inspection by drawing upon your education and experience in architecture, engineering, construction management, or trades in this interesting, varied, and people-oriented position!
- https://jobapscloud.com/MIL/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1=2003&R2=2561DC&R3=001
- Application filing deadline = Friday, May 1, 2020.
Elevator Inspector:
- Conduct inspections of passenger and freight elevators, chair lifts, accessible lifts, escalators, moving walks, and dumbwaiters in commercial and industrial buildings to insure that equipment installed in the City of Milwaukee meets the standards prescribed by State and City codes.
- https://www.jobapscloud.com/MIL/sup/bulpreview.asp?R1=2004&R2=2545DC&R3=001
- Accepting applications until further notice.
Please feel free to refer others. Stay well!
-Marti Cargile, Human Resources Representative
4/16/2020 Gov. Evers Directs DHS to Extend Wisconsin’s Safer at Home Order
| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 16, 2020 |
| Contact: GovPress@wisconsin.gov or 608-219-7443 |
| Gov. Evers Directs DHS to Extend Wisconsin’s Safer at Home Order |
| MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers today directed Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) Secretary-designee Andrea Palm to extend the Safer at Home order from April 24, 2020 to 8 a.m. Tuesday, May 26, 2020, or until a superseding order is issued. The order implements some new measures to ensure safety and support the progress we’ve made in containing COVID-19, but also allows certain activities to start up again. The order is available here.
“A few weeks ago, we had a pretty grim outlook for what COVID-19 could mean for our state, but because of the efforts of all of you, Safer at Home is working. That said, we aren’t out of the woods just yet,” said Gov. Evers. “As I’ve said all along, we are going to rely on the science and public health experts to guide us through this challenge. So, as we extend Safer at Home, I need all of you to continue doing the good work you’ve been doing so we can keep our families, our neighbors, and our communities safe, and get through this storm together.” “Before we lift Safer at Home, the steps of testing and more robust public health measures must be in place,” explained Secretary-designee Palm. “These steps will help us reduce the risk of a second wave of the virus. If we open up too soon, we risk overwhelming our hospitals and requiring more drastic physical distancing measures again.” The extension of the Safer at Home order includes a few changes. Some changes allow more businesses and activities to open back up, while other changes help make businesses safer for employees and customers. The changes in this order include: Businesses and activities ramping up service and operations:
Safe Business Practices:
Other changes include:
If you have questions, a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document is available here for your review. The public should continue to follow simple steps to avoid exposure to the virus and prevent illness including:
This is a rapidly evolving situation, and we encourage you and the public to frequently monitor the DHS website. We encourage you to follow @DHSWI on Facebook, Twitter, or dhs.wi on Instagram. Additional information can be found on the CDC website. |
4/15/2020 remote video for inspections
Hello Dan,
Here is a link to an article related to remote building inspections. It may be of interest to the group.
David Gray
4/15/2020 Fire and Smoke Damper Inspection Rules
Greetings!
The Senate Committee on Utilities and Housing has requested a meeting with the Department of Safety and Professional Services concerning Clearinghouse Rule 19-154, related to the inspection of fire and smoke dampers. This request for a meeting extends the Senate Committee review period to May 9, 2020. Meetings of this sort are requested sometimes so committee members can obtain more information from the proposing agency about the need for, and the basis of, the proposed rule. Discussions could also address possible changes to the rule proposal as well concerns about steps in the promulgation process.
The committee request for a meeting with the DSPS likely stems from three groups expressing opposition to the rule during the first 30 days of committee review. The Badger Institute, NAIOP Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Builders Association registered on the Wisconsin Ethics Commission in opposition to the proposed rules.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
4/14/2020 CARES Act Funding Requirement – IMPORTANT
Good morning everyone,
As always, funding has several strings attached. Attached are the links for the press release from the US Dept. of Treasury. What is key in this release is for State and Locals to file an eligibility form by April 17th. Please make sure your City Administrator/Finance Director/etc. has been notified of this important deadline. The form is in the link below for submission.
Please forward to your Chapter memberships so everyone can stay on top of these quick deadlines.
Dept. of Treasury Press Release
State and Local Government Link
Be safe,
Tim
4/13/2020 New Administrator for DSPS Industry Services Division
Greetings!
Branden Piper has been named Administrator of the Industry Services Division in the DSPS. Johnny Winston was in that position formerly. I have no further information on Mr. Winston.
Robert G. DuPont
4/13/2020 Emergency Order # 22 clarification
Greetings!
Dan Hereth, DSPS Assistant Deputy Secretary, informed me minutes ago that Emergency Order # 22 applies to plan submittals to the DSPS, not to municipalities. This came after I forwarded the question below from Scott Satula.
Bob, under EO #22, would a Delegated Agent have to follow in line with DSPS and accept electronic submittals for Commercial Buildings under our authority even though our local submittal requirements call for paper copies?
My thanks to Scott for being so astute in asking the question, and to Dan Hereth for answering the question within minutes of my email to him!
Robert G. DuPont
4/13/2020 Update on Revised Conveyance Safety Code
Greetings!
June 1, 2020, is the scheduled effective date for the revised Wisconsin Conveyance Safety Code (elevators, etc.). More information can be found through this link.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
04/13/2020 Plan Review Updates and Emergency Order 22 Requirements
Dear DSPS Customer,
Like all other state agencies and business, the Department of Safety and Professional Services is adapting to the evolving circumstances of the COVID-19 public health emergency. We are working hard to adjust our operations so that we can maintain services and continue the process-improvement initiatives we launched before this crisis hit.
As you know, one of our efforts is a plan review overhaul. This project involves internal process evaluation and modification, board consultation, and partnership with lawmakers to identify and pursue legislative solutions. While the COVID-19 crisis has shifted our thinking and reordered some of our short-term priorities, we have not lost sight of this plan review project. However, COVID-19 has directly affected it. Yesterday, Governor Evers issued Emergency Order 22, which immediately requires electronic plan submission.
We had already been encouraging electronic plan submission as part of our process improvement efforts. Electronically submitted plans are far simpler for us to process, and, as a result, we can turn around those plans more quickly. Right now, it is also the safer option for our customers and staff. When our service counters closed—and they will remain closed indefinitely—many of our customers shifted to electronic plan submission to continue accessing plan review services during the COVID-19 crisis. We appreciate this flexibility. We know process changes are difficult, and we appreciate your efforts to adapt.
Governor Evers’ order requires the rest of our customers to make that same transition during the public health emergency. We recognize that not everyone is prepared for this immediate change, so we have developed some resources to help you navigate electronic plan submission. There are tutorials available on our homepage. We also have specific email boxes for different kinds of submissions and questions. Those emails are also available on our homepage. If you are encountering obstacles to submitting plans electronically, please contact us and we will assist you.
In addition to electronic plan submission, the following are some additional steps you can take to expedite the plan review process:
- Submit complete plans ten business days prior to your appointment date. We recognize this is a significant shift from the previous requirement of two business days. However, this additional time gives our intake staff the opportunity to identify gaps and seek additional information and answers to questions before the plans hit the reviewer’s desk.
- Submit complete plans early, when possible. There are open appointments available in April and May. If your project is scheduled to be reviewed later but your plans are ready to go early, contact the department (via the appropriate email box below) to see whether you can get an earlier review. We have been able to move up reviews when complete plans are available early.
We have also adopted some policies that have already enabled us to shorten wait times for many customers. We are maintaining those policies during the public health emergency, as they enable us to offer the best possible service to all our customers. These changes include the following:
- Duplicate appointments are prohibited. We are removing all duplicate plans from the schedule without notice. Frequent submitters of duplicate appointments are advised to immediately cancel all duplicate appointments. Frequent submitters of duplicate appointments may have their ability to schedule plans electronically temporarily suspended.
- Untimely or incomplete submissions will be removed from the schedule. Plan submissions that remain incomplete 10 business days prior to the scheduled review date will be removed from the schedule. If you are unsure about what constitutes a complete plan, please review the plan submission check list, which is available on our website (linked in the table below).
If you have questions or are having trouble adjusting to our new policies and processes, please contact us via the relevant tech box email (listed in the table below and available on our homepage). While our new policies are firmly in place, we may be able to offer suggestions or information that will help you transition to updated practices. As always, we recognize the critical role we plan in the construction industry, and we welcome your feedback as we further refine our systems to and implement additional changes to improve agency operations.
We will continue communicating directly with you via email regarding these and other process changes. We will also post relevant information on our website, so please be sure to look there as well as your inbox for information that will inform your submittals to us and increase our timely review of your materials. Despite all the new operational challenges, we have been making progress in shortening plan review turnaround times. We want to maintain that momentum, and your assistance is critical.
| Plan Submission Check List | ||
| Commercial Building | DSPSSBBuildingTech@wisconsin.gov | https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/BuildingPlanSubmittalChecklist2015ICC.pdf |
| Fire Suppression/Fire Alarm | DSPSSBFireprotech@wisconsin.gov | https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/FireSuppressionSubmittalGuidelines.pdf |
| Plumbing | DSPSSBPlbgTech@wisconsin.gov | https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/PlumbingChecklist.pdf |
Sincerely,
Dawn B. Crim
Secretary-designee
4/11/2020 DHS Hospital Surge Message to Share with Municipalities
Greetings ARC Members!
Henry K. asked me to forward the following email with attachment to all ARC members ASAP. This information is especially important for building and fire officials. Thank you for your attention to this important information.
———- Forwarded message ———
From: Kosarzycki, Henry K – DHS <Henry.Kosarzycki@dhs.wisconsin.gov>
Date: Sat, Apr 11, 2020 at 4:48 PM
Subject: DHS Hospital Surge Message to Share with Municipalities
To: Robert DuPont <robertgdupont@gmail.com>
Cc: Woods, Otis L – DHS <Otis.Woods@dhs.wisconsin.gov>
The attached memorandum (Memo 20-001) is in response to the current challenges that our health care facilities are facing specific to bed capacity for individuals presenting with COVID-19 as well as individuals relying on health care facilities for non-pandemic concerns. The anticipated bed shortages throughout the State of Wisconsin are addressed on a regional and municipal level as potential surge capacity.
The purpose of this memorandum is to establish the process for hospitals and critical access hospitals to expand their acute care inpatient services temporarily during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has issued a number of blanket waivers under Section 1135 of the Social Security Act relieving certain regulatory burdens so that hospitals can establish temporary expansion locations in non-hospital space to be used for inpatient care for the duration of the COVID-19 public health emergency. In a response to those waivers the State of Wisconsin Department of Health Services has established three options for regulatory compliance.
As the municipal authority having jurisdiction specific to building and fire regulations it is critical that you are aware of these potential options and the actions that a health care facility may request in your community.
The first option focuses on temporary expansion converting space within the hospital into a surge space. Where the expansion is not anticipated to substantially comply with the requirements of the NFPA 101 2012 edition of the Life Safety Code or DHS 124 subchapter V, hospitals will submit an interim life safety plan to DHS. In the rare instance under this option any construction associated with that expansion may be subject to municipal permitting. To that point option one is primarily specific to licensure within a hospital occupancy.
The second option focuses on temporary expansion locations that are located on the campus with the same physical address or otherwise on the contiguous property of the licensed hospital. Where the expansion is not anticipated to substantially comply with the requirements of the NFPA 101 2012 edition of the Life Safety Code or DHS 124 subchapter V, hospitals will submit an interim life safety plan to DHS. Any construction associated with that expansion may be subject to municipal permitting.
The third option focuses on a temporary expansion location where the hospital is seeking to expand inpatient services at a location not on the campus of the licensed hospital.
If any construction or alteration is necessary to accommodate a building to be temporarily DQA licensed as a hospital they are directed to consult with Henry Kosarzycki (Henry.Kosarzycki@wi.gov), OPRI Director, and the local municipality.
Hospitals wishing to establish temporary expansion sites in a facility that is not on the hospital campus are instructed to contact the municipal authority, building code official as well as the fire code official, regarding any necessary permitting and occupancy. The hospital is also directed to contact the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) specific to any plumbing related concerns.
Please do not hesitate contacting me with any questions especially when working with hospitals in your communities.
Henry Kosarzycki, Director
Office of Plan Review and Inspection
414-750-045920-001
4/10/2020 COVID-19 CARES Act
Good Afternoon,
Today I sent to the Governor. As you probably read, the Federal Government is allocating $150bil to the States for emergency COVID-19 funding. Fortunately, our work is covered under the Act. The focus of the letter is to show the Governor that funding to help your offices continue the transition to the digital environment as well as continue to inspect is critical to public safety.
The letter contains the survey results from Wisconsin which was very helpful in allowing code activities to be allowed in the funding for all States. If you would like to take portions of this letter and draft your own, that would be great. Nobody receives funding without asking. So, please take a look and add in your own experience(s) within your community. Personal work experiences are the best way to show funding is needed.
I’m always available for questions at anytime. The attached is in a .docx format so you could edit/delete/add to any section.
Be safe,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
04/10/2020 EO 22 Changes Requiring Electronic Plan Submission
Dear DSPS Customer,
Like all other state agencies and business, the Department of Safety and Professional Services is adapting to the evolving circumstances of the COVID-19 public health emergency. We are working hard to adjust our operations so that we can maintain services and continue the process-improvement initiatives we launched before this crisis hit.
However, COVID-19 has directly affected plan review. Yesterday, Governor Evers issued Emergency Order 22, which requires electronic plan submission.
We had already been encouraging electronic plan submission as part of our process improvement efforts. Electronically submitted plans are far simpler for us to process, and, as a result, we can turn around those plans more quickly. Right now, it is also the safer option for our customers and staff. When our service counters closed—and they will remain closed indefinitely—many of our customers shifted to electronic plan submission to continue accessing plan review services during the COVID-19 crisis. We appreciate your flexibility. We know process changes are difficult, and we appreciate your efforts to adapt.
Governor Evers’ order requires the rest of our customers to make that same transition during the public health emergency. We recognize that not everyone is prepared for this immediate change, so we have developed some resources to help you navigate electronic plan submission. There are tutorials available on our homepage. If you have questions or are having trouble adjusting to our new policies and processes, please contact us via the relevant tech box email (DSPSSBUDCTech@wisconsin.gov for UDC and DspsSbPlanSchedule@wi.gov for POWTS). While our new policies are firmly in place, we may be able to offer suggestions or information that will help you transition to updated practices. As always, we recognize the critical role we plan in the construction industry, and we welcome your feedback as we further refine our systems to and implement additional changes to improve agency operations.
We will continue communicating directly with you via email regarding these and other process changes. We will also post relevant information on our website, so please be sure to look there as well as your inbox for information that will inform your submittals to us and increase our timely review of your materials. Despite all the new operational challenges, we have been making progress in shortening plan review turnaround times. We want to maintain that momentum, and your assistance is critical.
Sincerely,
Dawn B. Crim
Secretary-designee
04/10/2020 COVID-19 CARES Act
Good Afternoon,
Today I sent the attached to the Governor. As you probably read, the Federal Government is allocating $150bil to the States for emergency COVID-19 funding. Fortunately, our work is covered under the Act. The focus of the letter is to show the Governor that funding to help your offices continue the transition to the digital environment as well as continue to inspect is critical to public safety.
The letter contains the survey results from Wisconsin which was very helpful in allowing code activities to be allowed in the funding for all States. If you would like to take portions of this letter and draft your own, that would be great. Nobody receives funding without asking. So, please take a look and add in your own experience(s) within your community. Personal work experiences are the best way to show funding is needed.
I’m always available for questions at anytime.
Be safe,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
04/08/2020 Fw: News Release: New resources for code officials offer suggestions for coping with COVID-19 challenges
Some really helpful webinars over the next few weeks. As we all work through this, information sharing is the key to success. If you have a moment, jump on one of these calls. They will also be recorded and posted on the COVID-19 link on ICC’s website.
Be safe,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
|
04/07/2020
Greetings!
Attached is the latest legislation status report to ARC members about Bills and Acts that relate to Safety and Buildings Programs or Industries. Both the Senate and Assembly have ended their general floor periods for this session – so all remaining bills are dead.
Changes since the last report on March 18th, are shown in red. The first page of the report lists bills that that passed the Assembly, but not the Senate. The next page lists Acts signed by Governor Evers. The last three pages of the report list bills that did not pass due to the end of this legislative session.
Unless a special session of the legislature is convened, this will be the last legislation status report to ARC for the 2019-20 legislative session.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
2019-20 Leg. Session Tracking Chart 2020-4-7
—
Robert G. DuPont
04/07/2020 Job posting Building Inspector- Sheboygan
FYI
Nicole Krahn
Building Systems Inspector, Inspection Services Division
City of Oshkosh
920.236.5036
920-236-5128 Inspection Request Line
Follow us: Web | Facebook | Twitter
04/06/2020 Building Safety Month Proclamation
Greetings!
In preparation for May as Building Safety Month in Wisconsin, I contacted DSPS leadership to find out if they would like to request a Governor’s proclamation, instead of the request being made by the ARC. DSPS responded saying they would make the request for a Governor’s proclamation.
At this point I anticipate issuing press releases for each week of May, as traditionally done, to raise awareness of building safety and the efforts of the building construction, and building-related, industries and services.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
—
Robert G. DuPont
04/06/2020 Virtual Meetings
Greetings!
As we all work through our social distancing and virtual meeting protocols, I wanted each of you to know I’m here to assist. If you Chapter Board would like to meet, I have a WebEx account that can take care of this meeting. I’m also able to help with a virtual Chapter meeting with an instructor should you also desire. Please let me know at anytime if I can be of assistance and we can work out the details.
Be safe,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
04/06/2020 April Government Relations Update
Hello everyone,
Here’s the April monthly update. A LOT of information!
Be safe,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
04/06/2020 ARC Meetings in April
Greetings!
In light of the pandemic, and the related disruptions in work priorities and routines of ARC members, I recommend cancellation of the ARC Member Meeting and ARC Fire Safety Team Meeting, originally set for Wednesday, April 22, 2020. I recommend we plan on next meeting in mid-July.
Please let me know by end of business on Friday, April 10th, if you want the April meetings to go on as originally scheduled. If there is a desire to meet, the meeting, or meetings, would be via teleconference, with no physical meeting gathering place.
I continue to work on ARC priorities that are important but not as urgent as the pandemic related disruptions many of you are dealing with. I will keep you informed as things develop and will continue to solicit your input on ARC matters under consideration.
Thank you for your attention to this matter!
—
Robert G. DuPont
04/06/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
Greetings!
Earlier this year the DSPS locked their website to show April 13, 2020, as the next available date for plan review. That date lock is apparently still in place. The department action was reportedly taken in relation to the expected transition to the Department’s new computer program, and in relation to their effort to encourage that plan submissions be made as soon as possible, regardless of the scheduled appointment date.
As of this morning, April 6, 2020, the DSPS website reports plan review availability as follows:
• The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 1 week (down from 2 weeks as last reported on March 23rd).
• The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 1 week (down from 2 weeks as last reported).
• The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 1 week (down from 2 weeks as last reported).
Shown below is information from the DSPS website, including the following DSPS explanation of their Availability Report.
This calendar lists the next available review date with a two (2)-hour time block for all areas with the exception of Commercial Buildings, which shows a six (6)-hour duration of available time. Please contact the Department if you have additional questions about the scheduling of a plan, especially if its review time may be less than or exceed the time blocks described below.
PROGRAM NEXT AVAILABLE DATE
1 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – COMPLEX (TYPE: IA, IB, IIA, IV; 4 OR MORE FLOORS) 04-13-2020
2 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – STANDARD (TYPE: ALL OTHERS, 3 OR LESS FLOORS) 04-13-2020
3 FIRE ALARM 04-13-2020
4 FIRE SUPPRESSION 04-13-2020
5 ELEVATORS 04-13-2020
—
Robert G. DuPont
04/03/2020 Remote permitting and inspection webinar
Greetings!
Jim Boullion, with RENEW Wisconsin, provided the following information on a webinar concerning remote permitting and inspection, set for Monday, April 6th. The webinar was developed by the International Association of Electrical Inspectors (IAEI) and the Sustainable Energy Action Committee (SEAC) hosted by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC). Thank you for your interest in this matter!
This webinar is for building officials and inspectors to help them learn how to permit electronically and inspect remotely. The webinar has limited space so please send this to building officials and inspectors but don’t take up space on the webinar if you yourself are not a building official or inspector.
Webinar for Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs, or building, permitting or inspection officials):
When: Monday, April 6th, 2:00 ET/11:00 PT
Webinar registration link: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/295249153/success?user_id=AdGvLiUcRMmnroyLBlUgfw&timezone_id=America%2FNew_York
Permitting and Inspection Resource for Solar Companies
If you are not a building official or inspector, you can learn more at SEIA’s Permitting and Inspections Options during COVID-19 page.
https://www.seia.org/research-resources/permitting-options-solar-installations-covid19
—
Robert G. DuPont
04/03/2020 Fw: Survey of U.S. code officials shows trends in code compliance during COVID-19
Good morning,
As you know, the Code Council surveyed building and fire departments to learn how code officials are coping with the professional challenges brought on by COVID-19. From March 22 through April 1, 2020, more than 1,150 respondents from all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia provided input. Respondents came from jurisdictions of all sizes ranging from 1,000 people to over 4.6 million. The survey collects trends, ideas, solutions and best practices from code officials about how they are keeping up with new building permits and new construction during the pandemic months. I hope you find the information useful and please forward on to your Membership.
Please view online at: https://bit.ly/3dU0R0b
Be safe,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
4/1/2020 Report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects
Greetings!
Attached is an updated report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects that deal with the safety and buildings programs of the Department. Changes are shown in red.
Clearinghouse Rule 19-118, which updates the Conveyance Safety Code, has cleared the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules. The next step is adoption by the DSPS Secretary.
Clearinghouse Rule 19-099, relating to fees for electrical inspections; and Clearinghouse Rule 19-154, relating to inspection of fire and smoke dampers, are both under review by legislative committees as indicated on the attached report. Neither committee has any public hearings hearings on their posted calendars.
Shown below is information received this morning from the Wisconsin Ethics Commission regarding opposition to the proposed rules relating to inspection of fire and smoke dampers.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
This email contains a report of activity in the Wisconsin Ethics Commission’s Eye on Lobbying website over the past 24 hours, based on your FOCUS subscription preferences.
Administrative Rulemaking Proceedings
Subject Agency Name Principal Name Position Comments Reported Date
Inspection of fire and smoke dampers
Department of Safety and Professional Services (SPS) National Federation of Independent Business
Against This proposed rule/regulation needs to be reviewed by the Small Business Regulatory Review Board. 3/31/2020
—
Robert G. DuPont
3/30/2020 DSPS credentialing, inspection and plan review services
Greetings!
This morning I asked Dan Hereth, DSPS Assistant Deputy Secretary, about the status of DSPS credentialing, inspection and plan review services relative to safety and buildings programs during the pandemic. Here is his response:
“While we are working to adjust to our various remote work arrangements, the Department remains open for business, We are of course prioritizing healthcare and emergency response needs. That said we continue to inspect, review and process licenses.”
Earlier this year the DSPS locked their website to show April 13, 2020, as the next available date for plan review. That date lock is apparently still in place. The department action was reportedly taken in relation to the expected transition to the Department’s new computer program, and in relation to their effort to encourage that plan submissions be made as soon as possible, regardless of the scheduled appointment date.
As of this morning, March 30, 2020, the DSPS website reports plan review availability as follows:
• The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 2 weeks (down from 3 weeks as last reported on March 23rd).
• The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 2 weeks (down from 3 weeks as last reported).
• The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 2 weeks (down from 3 weeks as last reported).
Shown below is information from the DSPS website, including the following DSPS explanation of their Availability Report.
This calendar lists the next available review date with a two (2)-hour time block for all areas with the exception of Commercial Buildings, which shows a six (6)-hour duration of available time. Please contact the Department if you have additional questions about the scheduling of a plan, especially if its review time may be less than or exceed the time blocks described below.
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/30/2020 Building Department COVID-19 Response Survey
From: Brian Flannery <secretary@swwbia.com>
Date: Sun, Mar 29, 2020 at 2:14 PM
Subject: FW: Building Department COVID-19 Response Survey
To:
Tim says we went from zero responses to 7th in the nation (and ahead of Illinois). I would like to take a minute to thank everyone who responded amidst all of the crazy, and ask anyone who hasn’t, please take five minutes to fill out the survey.
Enclosed here is the survey for each of you to complete
On Wisconsin and BE SAFE!
Thank you
Brian Flannery, Secretary
SWWBIA
secretary@swwbia.com
03/28/2020 NWBIA Annual Membership renewal notice
Hello NWBIA members, it is that time of the year where the annual membership fee is due.
Click on the ‘join NWBIA’ tab at the top of our website
Then click on the membership application and print it out
fill out the form and mail it and a check to NWBIA 726 E. Highway 12 Suite 105, Hudson WI 54016
email me if you have any questions or need any help
Dan Kegley
Secretary
03/27/2020 essential businesses that can stay open
More info on essential businesses that can stay open.
Craig
03/26/2020 Fwd: “Safer at Home” Order – Information for Delegated Municipalities
Dear Members Attached is the email that I received from DSPS after our teleconference call yesterday.
Please look it over and use what is pertinent to your situation.
More info will likely be coming soon
Craig
———- Forwarded message ———
From: Crim, Dawn – DSPS <dawn.crim1@wisconsin.gov>
Date: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 3:25 PM
Subject: “Safer at Home” Order – Information for Delegated Municipalities
To:
Cc: Crim, Dawn – DSPS <dawn.crim1@wisconsin.gov>, Hereth, Daniel – DSPS <daniel.hereth@wisconsin.gov>, Piper, Branden – DSPS <Branden.Piper@wisconsin.gov>
Good afternoon,
Attached please find important information for delegated municipalities regarding the “Safer at Home” order issued by Governor Evers.
3.26.2020 – Delegated Municipalities – Letter
REMOTE VIDEO INSPECTION PROGRAM
DSPS COVID-19 PPE LEO – 03252020
Thank you.
Dawn B. Crim / Secretary
DSPS
3/26/2020 Building Department COVID-19 Response Survey
Good morning to my friends in America’s Dairyland. ICC is collecting data/ideas on what our Nation’s building departments are doing to work through and around this crisis. We’re compiling information which we will post on a website showing what communities large and small are doing to keep construction moving while providing safety for all involved. It will provide all of us a wealth of information sharing for everyone to use.
Unfortunately, the Badger State has submitted 0 responses so far. To put it another way, Illinois is winning. If you are able to spend a few minutes to complete the survey (15 questions), it would be very helpful for ICC members around the country. Enclosed here is the survey for each of you to complete. If you could forward this to your Chapter Membership lists as well, that would be great.
Even though I reside in the Land of Lincoln, I’m pulling for Wisconsin to win! I didn’t say the Packers, so don’t go that far!
Be safe and let me know if I can answer any questions,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
3/26/2020 Fwd: FOCUS Activity Report
Greetings!
As shown below, three organizations have expressed opposition to the DSPS proposal concerning inspection of fire and smoke dampers, Clearinghouse Rule 19-154. The proposal is now under consideration by committees of the legislature. With opposition expressed, in normal times, it would be more likely that at least one committee would hold a public hearing on the proposal. In this time of pandemic, it is less clear what will happen next.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
———- Forwarded message ———
From: <noreply.ethics@wi.gov>
Date: Thu, Mar 26, 2020 at 7:00 AM
Subject: FOCUS Activity Report for 3/26/2020
To: <robertgdupont@gmail.com>
This email contains a report of activity in the Wisconsin Ethics Commission’s Eye on Lobbying website over the past 24 hours, based on your FOCUS subscription preferences.
Administrative Rulemaking Proceedings
Subject Agency Name Principal Name Position Comments Reported Date
Inspection of fire and smoke dampers
Department of Safety and Professional Services (SPS) Badger Institute
Against 3/25/2020
Inspection of fire and smoke dampers
Department of Safety and Professional Services (SPS) NAIOP Wisconsin
Against 3/25/2020
Inspection of fire and smoke dampers
Department of Safety and Professional Services (SPS) Wisconsin Builders Association
Against 3/25/2020
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/25/2020 Upcoming Webinars
Please see the schedule for some new Webinars.
2021 IPC® Highlights Webinar | FREE! | March 26 or April 9 | https://learn.iccsafe.org?course_id=37700
2021 IMC® Highlights Webinar | FREE! | March 26 or April 23 | https://learn.iccsafe.org?course_id=37701
2015 IMC® Webinar Series: Boilers and Hydronic Piping | March 31 | Webinar | https://learn.iccsafe.org?course_id=34562
Applying the Codes to Cannabis Facilities | March 31 | Virtual Course | https://learn.iccsafe.org?course_id=36529
Finding the Answers in the I-Codes® | April 1 | Webinar | https://learn.iccsafe.org?course_id=34532
Be safe!
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Lead Senior Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
4051 Flossmoor Road
Country Club Hills, IL 60478
tschmitz@iccsafe.org
630.774.9008 – cellular
www.iccsafe.org
03/25/2020 Emergency Order #12, Safer at Home Order, can be found attached to the email below.
I encourage you to read and familiarize yourself with the order.
On page 6, in Section 10., you will find that individuals may leave their residence to provide services related to “essential infrastructure” which includes building construction. On page 12, in Section 13.n., you will find that building construction tradesmen and tradeswomen are designated as “critical trades” which may continue to operate as outlined in the order.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
———- Forwarded message ———
From: Kuhn, Jamie S – GOV <jamie.kuhn@wisconsin.gov>
Date: Tue, Mar 24, 2020 at 10:38 AM
Subject: Update
To: Kuhn, Jamie S – GOV <jamie.kuhn@wisconsin.gov>
Protecting the health and safety of Wisconsinites across our state is the Governor’s top priority. As we work with public health experts to respond to the health crisis, we have been careful to listen to the science and mindful of the impact our protective measures will have for EVERYONE.
Today the Governor issued Emergency Order #12 to institute a Safer At Home policy. Please read the order carefully! [attached]
The order is effective at 8:00 am on Wednesday, March 25, 2020 and remain in effect until 8:00 am Friday, April 24, 2020, or until a superseding order is issued.
Wisconsin residents must comply with this order. As outlined in the order, individuals can leave their home to perform tasks essential to maintain health and safety, get services and supplies necessary for staying home, and care for others.
After reviewing the order, if a business believes their business is doing essential work and they are not exempted in this order please go to this link https://wedc.org/essentialbusiness/.
These are important steps to ensure we working to slow the spread of COVID-19, and we all need to do our part and work together to protect each other. The Governor did not take this decision lightly, but we know what Wisconsinites can do when they care about each other.
Essential services will continue to be provided to our communities. We ask that you recognize the efforts of those who are providing those services.
We are extremely grateful to everyone. #SaferAtHome
Additional actions and information from agencies below.
DOR Tax Filing Deadline Extension
https://www.revenue.wi.gov/Pages/News/2020/Tax-Deadline-Extended.pdf
DOT Rest Areas Remain Open
https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/news-rel/032020RestAreasOpen.aspx
OCI Guidance on Insurance Flexibility
https://oci.wi.gov/Pages/PressReleases/20200320COVID-19.aspx
DATCP Guidance for Serving Unpackaged Foods
https://datcp.wi.gov/Documents/GroceryConvenienceUnpackagedFoodsCovid19.pdf
DOT Emissions Testing Timeline
https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/about-wisdot/newsroom/news-rel/032320-DMV-xemissions-timeline.aspx
DWD Unemployment Information
https://dwd.wisconsin.gov/covid19/public/ui.htm
DFI Federally Insured Financial Institutions
DPI Updates
https://dpi.wi.gov/sspw/2019-novel-coronavirus
Jamie Kuhn
Director of Outreach
Office of Governor Tony Evers
Office Phone: 608-266-7606
Email: jamie.kuhn@wisconsin.gov
03/23/2020 AWC Webinars – DATE CHANGE!! Demobilizing Construction Sites Safely Using NFPA 241
Good afternoon all . . . I am not imagining a shutdown of construction sites in Wisconsin, but I case you feel something like that might be coming your way, you might find this webinar informational.
Jim,
James B. Smith, P.E.
Midwest Regional Manager
AMERICAN WOOD COUNCIL
6457 Woodland Trail, Dane, WI 53529
Office/Cell: 608-635-6635
Email: jsmith@awc.org
DATE CHANGE!! Demobilizing Construction Sites Safely Using NFPA 241
Date: Monday, March 30, 2020 Time: 10:55am – 12:00pm Eastern
registration
OR
Time: 1:55pm – 3:00pm Eastern
Presenters: Ray O’Brocki, CBO, AWC and Chris Towski, Fire Lt., Cambridge, MA
1 Hour of Instruction – NO Education Credit Awarded
03/23/2020 DSPS OKs conversion of courses to virtual teleconference or video conference
Greetings!
Just a bit ago, Dan Hereth, DSPS Assistant Deputy Secretary has responded to ARC, saying “Yes, they can as long as they deliver the same curriculum that was approved and assigned credit hours”, to the following question, posed to him last Friday.
May a course provider deliver an approved continuing education course through a virtual teleconference, or video conference instead of delivering it in person? Attendance would be taken verbally, similar to how the DSPS takes attendance for code council meetings that are conducted via video conference.
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/23/2020 Improving the measurement of plan review availability and timeliness
Greetings!
Input Request
Attached is a draft ARC White Paper concerning state plan review operations. Please review it and send me comments or suggestions by end of business on April 3, 2020.
Discussion
Over the past few months, the matter of DSPS plan review availability and timeliness has received increased attention from many in the building design and construction industry, as well as from the DSPS Secretary’s Office and state legislators. Even before the recent rise in attention to this matter, several ARC members had raised concern to me over the wide fluctuation in the DSPS posted wait times to next available plan review appointment.
As a result of the above-mentioned attention and concerns, I researched state-of-the-art measures of appointment availability and service timeliness. Regarding availability, I found that a measurement based on the “Third Next Appointment” is widely recommended in the health care industry. Regarding timeliness, I considered how customers most often decide their satisfaction with dinner and meeting/wedding venue reservations. For such reservations, most customers benchmark off their initially desired date and time.
The recommendations in the White Paper are meant to be directed to DSPS leadership and shared with others interested in the matter. I believe the recommended service measurements would more accurately reflect the state plan review situation and customer experiences at any given time.
Thank you for your attention to this matter!
DSPS Plan Review Timeliness Measure White Paper 2020-3-23
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/23/2020 Building Department Action Plans
Good morning,
I hope everyone is doing well! As we work through these interesting days, the Code Council staff has seen various action plans enacted by the state and local building departments. We felt it would be a great time to compile data to report on successful “best practices” being used throughout the United States. I use the term “best practices” loosely as if your plan works for your jurisdiction, then keep it going. Others may like to see what types of actions are happening in their regions and state to make any modifications.
With that said, I’m enclosing a quick survey for each of you to complete. The data will only be as good as the information received, so it is my hope you will have a few moments to complete this survey. As you know, I’m always available for questions at anytime.
Be safe!
Timothy Schmitz
Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
4051 Flossmoor Road
Country Club Hills, IL 60478
630.774.9008 – cellular
03/23/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
Greetings!
Earlier this year the DSPS locked their website to show April 13, 2020, as the next available date for plan review. Evidently, that date lock is still in place. The department action was apparently taken in relation to the expected transition to the Department’s new computer program, and in relation to their effort to encourage that plan submissions be made as soon as possible, regardless of the scheduled appointment date.
As of this morning, March 23, 2020, the DSPS website reports plan review availability as follows:
• The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 3 weeks (down from 4 weeks as last reported on March 16th).
• The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 3 weeks (down from 4 weeks as last reported).
• The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 3 weeks (down from 4 weeks as last reported).
Shown below is information from the DSPS website, including the following DSPS explanation of their Availability Report.
This calendar lists the next available review date with a two (2)-hour time block for all areas with the exception of Commercial Buildings, which shows a six (6)-hour duration of available time. Please contact the Department if you have additional questions about the scheduling of a plan, especially if its review time may be less than or exceed the time blocks described below.
1 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – COMPLEX (TYPE: IA, IB, IIA, IV; 4 OR MORE FLOORS) 04-13-2020
2 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – STANDARD (TYPE: ALL OTHERS, 3 OR LESS FLOORS) 04-13-2020
3 FIRE ALARM 04-13-2020
4 FIRE SUPPRESSION 04-13-2020
5 ELEVATORS 04-13-2020
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/23/2020 ARC member concerns passed along to DSPS
Greetings ARC Members!
In response to my question of how I might be able to help ARC members during the pandemic I heard concerns about credential renewals and continuing education. Following is the text of two emails I sent to Dan Hereth, Assistant Deputy Secretary at the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services. I will pass along the DSPS response when I receive it.
On Thursday, March 19th, I wrote:
Hi Dan,
I asked ARC members how I might help them during the pandemic and have heard concerns about credential renewals that rely on continuing education. Here is one example:
Hi Bob, biggest concern we’re hearing as inspectors is extension of deadlines for CSU’s for credentialing due to all the cancelled trainings. The sooner DSPS can wrap their head around that the sooner folks can feel secure about not losing their credentials. Thanks for any help you can provide.
Dan, any information you can provide regarding credential renewals will be greatly appreciated!
On Friday, March 20th, I wrote:
Hello Dan,
Another question from ARC members – concerning delivery mechanisms for previously approved continuing education courses.
May a course provider deliver an approved continuing education course through a virtual teleconference, or video conference instead of delivering it in person? Attendance would be taken verbally, similar to how the DSPS takes attendance for code council meetings that are conducted via video conference.
This concept is different from typical online courses that operate as correspondence courses. In the scenario envisioned, the instructor and course attendees would be able to engage in two-way immediate communication – again, the same as how the DSPS communicates during video conference code council meetings.
Shifting from in-person delivery, to a teleconference or video conference format, allows course providers to quickly utilize their previously approved course materials and at the same time, comply with the Governor’s directive to not assemble in groups of ten or more persons.
Would the Department accept such change in delivery method? Your attention to this matter will be greatly appreciated.
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/21/2020 Message from NWBIA President
Members,
The meeting in Colfax was canceled but we might try to reschedule the Colfax meeting for April if the quarantine is lifted.
Stay tuned for more info
—
Craig Moriak
03/20/2020 Updated Mass Gathering Ban
Greetings!
Moments ago, DSPS provided me with the attached document containing Emergency Order #8, Updated Mass Gathering Ban, issued today by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Under section 6. d. i., of Emergency Order #8, construction sites and projects, including public works and remodeling projects are exempt from the ban on mass gatherings.
Exemptions begin on page 2 of the order. Section 6.d.i., pertaining to CONSTRUCTION is on page 4 of the order.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/20/2020 We are in this together!
Hello everyone,
As we all work through this very interesting time, I wanted to make sure everyone knew of the offerings of on-line courses. I have had a few calls wondering how to keep up with CEU’s as in-person training has ceased for now. We offer these courses to fit your schedule and needs. Please take a look when you have a moment. If you’re like me, I’m using this time to catch up on older projects and cleaning out files. I’m also taking time during the day to learn and shift gears from our daily happenings.
I’m always available for questions at anytime.
Be safe,
Tim
Timothy Schmitz
Regional Manager, Government Relations
International Code Council
4051 Flossmoor Road
Country Club Hills, IL 60478
tschmitz@iccsafe.org
630.774.9008 – cellular
www.iccsafe.org
03/19/2020 DSPS Ongoing Building Inspections
DSPS Continues to Serve
Dear DSPS Customer,
At this time, the Department of Safety and Professional Services is continuing to serve our customers during the COVID-19 outbreak. We have closed the counters in all five state offices, and we encourage customers to use online resources, available on our website, to submit materials and requests. Currently the department plans to continue conducting inspections. Attached you will find information on how the Department plans to continue conducting inspections during the State of Emergency.
We know many of our customers have questions about deadlines and requirements. We are working as quickly as possible to make decisions and communicate answers. For the most up to date information on changes to DSPS operations, please visit www.DSPS.WI.Gov. We appreciate your patience and understanding during these unprecedented times.
We understand that you may have questions or concerns about how we are altering our usual processes and services given the COVID-19 outbreak in Wisconsin and Governor Tony Evers’ actions in response to it.
At this time, the Department of Safety and Professional Services will continue to conduct building inspections where required. As long as construction continues at job sites in the state, we have an obligation to ensure the safety of those buildings now and in the future.
However, we recognize the immediate threat to health and safety that COVID-19 presents. Therefore, we are increasing and encouraging the use of video and photo-based inspections in order to limit face-to-face contact. Each individual inspector will determine whether the electronic inspection yields the necessary information to provide approval.
In-person inspections of critical structures, such as healthcare facilities, and complex projects with high risk factors are still encouraged. If an in-person inspection is necessary and cannot be rescheduled, inspectors will operate according to DHS guidelines and will coordinate with building contractors and facility management to minimize risks during inspection.
As you know, this is a rapidly evolving situation. Please visit our website for updates and current information. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we navigate this crisis.
Sincerely,
Dawn B. Crim
Secretary-designee
03/18/2020 DSPS Operations
At this time, the Department of Safety and Professional Services is continuing to serve our customers during the COVID-19 outbreak. We have closed the counters in all five state offices, and we encourage customers to use online resources, available on our website, to submit materials and requests. We know many of our customers have questions about deadlines and requirements. We are working as quickly as possible to make decisions and communicate answers. We appreciate your patience and understanding during these unprecedented times.”
Dan Hereth
03/18/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
Greetings!
Attached is the latest legislation status report to ARC members about Bills and Acts that relate to Safety and Buildings Programs or Industries. Changes since the last report on March 10th, are shown in red.
The report has been rearranged for easier reference. The first page lists bills that that have passed the Assembly and are now before the Senate for action. The next page lists Acts signed by Governor Evers. The last three pages list bills that are not likely to pass due to the end of this legislative session. Moving forward I will track only the bills shown on the first page of the report.
Senate leadership cancelled the floor sessions expected to be held this week. The Senate may meet in person later in Spring, or may conduct business remotely, utilizing electronic communications, to complete this legislative session.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
2019-20 Leg. Session Tracking Chart 2020-3-18a
—
Robert G. DuPont
03/17/2020 CANCELLED NWBIA MARCH 19 meeting and Postponed League conference in April
The NWBIA March 19th meeting is cancelled. Next meeting date will be posted once it is figured out.
The League of Municipalities Building Inspectors Institute 2020 Conference April 15 – 17 is postponed until further notice. New dates will be posted at a later time.
Let me know if you have any questions.
Dan Kegley
Secretary
Northwest Wisconsin Building Inspectors Association
www.nwbia.org
nwbia2019@gmail.com
7154973458
03/16/2020 Report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects
Greetings!
Attached is an updated report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects that deal with the safety and buildings programs of the Department. Changes are shown in red.
I am sending this mid-month report because Clearinghouse Rule 19-099, relating to fees for electrical inspections; and Clearinghouse Rule 19-154, relating to inspection of fire and smoke dampers, have both been assigned to legislative committees as indicated on the attached report.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
DSPS Rule Change Monthly Chart 2020-3-16
—
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
03/16/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
Greetings!
DSPS has informed me that earlier this year they locked the DSPS website to show April 13, 2020, as the next available date for plan review. Apparently this action was taken in relation to the expected transition to the Department’s new computer program and in relation to their effort to encourage that plan submissions be made as soon as possible, regardless of the scheduled appointment date. To refresh you on the latest plan submission instructions from the DSPS, at the end of this email is text copied from an email sent to DSPS plan review customers, by the DSPS, on February 24, 2020.
As of this morning, March 16, 2020, the DSPS website reports plan review availability as follows:
- The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 4 weeks (down from 5 weeks as last reported on March 9th).
- The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 4 weeks (down from 5 weeks as last reported).
- The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 4 weeks (down from 5 weeks as last reported).
Shown below is information from the DSPS website, including the following DSPS explanation of their Availability Report.
This calendar lists the next available review date with a two (2)-hour time block for all areas with the exception of Commercial Buildings, which shows a six (6)-hour duration of available time. Please contact the Department if you have additional questions about the scheduling of a plan, especially if its review time may be less than or exceed the time blocks described below.
| PROGRAM | NEXT AVAILABLE DATE |
| 1 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – COMPLEX (TYPE: IA, IB, IIA, IV; 4 OR MORE FLOORS) | 04-13-2020 |
| 2 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – STANDARD (TYPE: ALL OTHERS, 3 OR LESS FLOORS) | 04-13-2020 |
| 3 FIRE ALARM | 04-13-2020 |
| 4 FIRE SUPPRESSION | 04-13-2020 |
| 5 ELEVATORS | 04-13-2020 |
Text copied from an email sent to DSPS plan review customers, by the DSPS, on February 24, 2020.
The department is also now requiring customers to submit complete plans earlier in order to continue holding their scheduled review slots. For any projects added to the schedule on or after February 24, 2020, the department must receive complete plans ten business days prior to the scheduled review. Any projects without complete plans will be removed from the schedule, and another project will be slotted into that timeframe. (Any projects already on the schedule prior to February 24, 2020, regardless of the scheduled date of review, will be subject to the previous policy requiring complete plans within two business days of review.)
Customers are encouraged to submit complete plans as soon as the project allows. Submissions and scheduling will continue. However, in order to schedule an appointment prior to April 13, 2020, please contact the relevant tech email box (listed in the table below) and be prepared to submit complete plans.
Duplicate appointments are prohibited. As we identify duplicate appointment requests, they will be removed from the schedule without notice. Frequent submitters of duplicate appointments are advised to immediately cancel all duplicate appointments. Frequent submitters of duplicate appointments may have their ability to schedule plans electronically temporarily suspended.
Untimely or incomplete submissions will be removed from the schedule. Per our new policy, plan submissions that remain incomplete 10 business days prior to the scheduled review date will be removed from the schedule. If you are unclear about what constitutes a complete plan, please review the plan submission check list, which is available on our website (linked in the table below).
If you have questions regarding these policies, please contact us via the relevant tech box email (listed in the table below). Future communications regarding these process changes as well as our computer system changes will be posted on our website and sent to e-mail recipients. Please watch for other communications that will aid your submittals to us and increase our timely review of your materials.
| Plan Submission Check List | ||
| Commercial Building | DSPSSBBuildingTech@wisconsin.gov | https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/BuildingPlanSubmittalChecklist2015ICC.pdf |
| Fire Suppression/Fire Alarm | DSPSSBFireprotech@wisconsin.gov | https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/FireSuppressionSubmittalGuidelines.pdf
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/FireAlarmSubmittalGuidelines.pdf |
| Plumbing | DSPSSBPlbgTech@wisconsin.gov | https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/PlumbingChecklist.pd |
—
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
03/14/2020 NOTICE OF NEXT NWBIA MEETING
Meeting Date Thursday March 19 2020
Location Viking Bowl and lounge N8590 HWY 40 Colfax WI 54730
Please RSVP to nwbia2019@gmail.com
10:00 Meeting room open. Coffee, juice, rolls and fruit available
10:30 Call to Order – Any new members? Introductions if necessary
10:35 Secretary’s report / Treasurer’s report
10:45 Old Business
Jan 16 Concrete meeting update Craig Moriak
Feb Winter update discussion Jared Grande
Arc Fault tester update Brian Wert and Dan Kegley
11:30 New Business
April 15-17 Leauge Inspectors Conference Delavan WI Craig Moriak
ICC training date and info Craig Moriak
WOCA membership renewal John Dahl
DSPS Staff Discussion
Electrical Steve Ramussen
UDC ???
Commercial Joe Merchak
Annual Outing discussion
12:00 Lunch Onsite
1:00 Inspect Wiz Presentation Brian Wert
3:00 Code Discussion Specific Issues/Problems
3:25 Next regular meeting Thursday May 21 River Falls Library
3:00 Adjourn Verify Attendance
3/12/2020 Update on DSPS Code Development
Greetings!
The Commercial Building Code Council met yesterday to consider legislative and administrative rule matters related to state level plan review. During the meeting, I presented the ARC recommendation to simplify participation fees charged to second class cities and appointed agent municipalities that conduct state level plan review. Council members appeared open to the idea and appreciative of the potential for more municipal participation in state level plan review if participation fees were simplified.
The council passed two motions as generally described below.
• The first motion recommends that the DSPS develop a statement of scope for a code development project dealing with state level plan review.
• The second motion recommends that the DSPS consider operational changes to the state level plan review process that can be made without changing code or statute.
Once a statement of scope has been approved, the Department can begin working with the council on specific rule changes, such as simplifying plan review participation fees. Department staff indicated that such a scope statement would likely create a distinct and focused project; not including changes to construction standards, etc., due to the fact that, by statute, scope statements expire 30 months after final issuance. The expected upcoming project to consider adoption of the 2021 International Building Code is expected to come under a scope statement this summer or fall.
Regarding inspection of fire and smoke dampers, Clearinghouse Rule 19-154 was assigned on March 10th, to the Senate Committee on Utilities and Housing for review. The Assembly committee assignment has yet to be posted.
Regarding a fee schedule for electrical inspections, Clearinghouse Rule 19-099 was assigned on March 10th, to the Senate Committee on Utilities and Housing for review. The Assembly committee assignment has yet to be posted.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
—
Robert G. DuPont
3/10/2020 ARC meeting summary
Greetings!
Attached is the final summary of the ARC Member Meeting held on February 17, 2020. I received no comments on the draft summary, so the final is identical to the draft. The summary has also been posted on the ARC website.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
ARC 2020 -2-17 Member Mtg. Summary
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Robert G. DuPont
3/20/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
Greetings!
Attached is the latest legislation status report to ARC members about Bills and Acts that relate to Safety and Buildings Programs or Industries. Changes since the last report on March 3rd, are shown in red.
On March 3, 2020, Governor Evers signed 2019 Wisconsin Act 130, regarding special code provisions for recreational and educational camps. Due to the Assembly not being scheduled to hold another floor period during this session, there are only four bills (shaded on the report) that are able to move forward.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
2019-20 Leg. Session Tracking Chart 2020-3-10
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Robert G. DuPont
3/10/2020 Commercial Building Code Council Meeting
Greetings!
The DSPS has issued the agenda for tomorrow’s meeting of the Commercial Building Code Council. The agenda and meeting documents are attached to this email.
The agenda includes discussion and consideration of the ARC recommendation to simplify participation fees charged to municipalities by the DSPS. A copy of the finalized white paper on that matter is attached to this email. I received no comments or suggestions, so the final version is the same as the earlier draft sent to you.
I plan on attending the meeting tomorrow and will report back to you shortly thereafter. Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Plan Review Participation Fee White Paper 2020-3-3
20200311CBCCouncilMtgFullPacket
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Robert G. DuPont
3/10/2020 ICC Chapter update for March
2020 March ICC Chapter Update r
3/9/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
Greetings!
As of this morning, March 9, 2020, DSPS plan review availability is as follows:
• The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 5 weeks (down from 6 weeks as last reported on March 2nd).
• The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 5 weeks (down from 6 weeks as last reported).
• The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 5 weeks (down from 6 weeks as last reported).
PLEASE NOTE: The DSPS website has indicated the same April 13, 2020 next available date (for all plan types posted) since approximately January 13, 2020. It appears they may be steadily catching up by eliminating duplicate appointments and thus opening up review capacity. Or their computer system is locked up.
Shown below is information from the DSPS website, including the following DSPS explanation of their Availability Report.
This calendar lists the next available review date with a two (2)-hour time block for all areas with the exception of Commercial Buildings, which shows a six (6)-hour duration of available time. Please contact the Department if you have additional questions about the scheduling of a plan, especially if its review time may be less than or exceed the time blocks described below.
PROGRAM NEXT AVAILABLE DATE
1 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – COMPLEX (TYPE: IA, IB, IIA, IV; 4 OR MORE FLOORS) 04-13-2020
2 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – STANDARD (TYPE: ALL OTHERS, 3 OR LESS FLOORS) 04-13-2020
3 FIRE ALARM 04-13-2020
4 FIRE SUPPRESSION 04-13-2020
5 ELEVATORS 04-13-2020
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Robert G. DuPont
3/3/2020 Two ARC documents for your review
Greetings!
Attached are two draft documents for your review. They relate to the issue of DSPS plan review operations. The first is the draft summary of the ARC member meeting held on February 17, 2020, concerning 2019 Senate Bill 820. The second is a draft white paper concerning plan review participation fees charged to second class cities, and appointed agents of the DSPS, that conduct state-level plan review. Since we have not been able to convince policy makers to repeal the statutory mandate for such fees, I am recommending that ARC lobby for simplification of the fees as explained in the draft white paper. I would like to present the white paper to the Commercial Building Code Council during their meeting on March 11th.
Please review both documents and send any comments or suggestions to me by end of business on Monday, March 9, 2020.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
Plan Review Participation Fee White Paper 2020-3-3
ARC 2020 -2-17 Member Mtg. Summary
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Robert G. DuPont
3/3/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
Greetings!
Attached is the latest legislation status report to ARC members about Bills and Acts that relate to Safety and Buildings Programs or Industries. Changes since the last report on February 25th, are shown in red.
Assembly Bill 967, is new to the report. This bill would prohibit testing of audible devices of fire alarm systems in the state capitol building after 8 a.m. Also, several companion bills were introduced during the past week, as drafters finish their work, and the legislative session begins to wind down.
Due to the Assembly not being scheduled to hold another floor period during this session, there are only five bills (shaded on the report) that are able to move forward.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
— 2019-20 Leg. Session Tracking Chart 2020-3-3
Robert G. DuPont
3/2/2020 Report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects
Greetings!
Attached is an updated report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects that deal with the safety and buildings programs of the Department. Changes are shown in red.
The DSPS has submitted the following two rule packages for legislative committee review: Clearinghouse Rule 19-099, relating to fees for electrical inspections; and Clearinghouse Rule 19-154, relating to inspection of fire and smoke dampers. The Senate has reported receiving these packages, but they have not yet been assigned to committees. These two packages, sent for legislative review, can be found on the Pending Rules page of the DSPS website.
The DSPS calendar shows the Commercial Building Code Council is set to meet on March 11, 2020. You can view the meeting agenda and handouts by following the link associated with the council. I hope to address this council, on the matter of participation fees charged to municipalities that conduct state-level plan review, during this meeting.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
DSPS Rule Change Monthly Chart 2020-3-2
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Robert G. DuPont
3/2/2020 Summary of January ARC Meeting
Greetings!
Attached for your use, is the finalized summary of the ARC member meeting held on January 15, 2020. No substantial changes were made to the draft. A copy of the summary has been posted on the ARC website.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
ARC 2020 -1-15 Member Mtg. Summary
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Robert G. DuPont
3/2/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
Greetings!
As of this morning, March 2, 2020, DSPS plan review availability is as follows:
• The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 6 weeks (down from 7 weeks as last reported on February 24th).
• The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 6 weeks (down from 7 weeks as last reported).
• The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 6 weeks (down from 7 weeks as last reported).
PLEASE NOTE: The DSPS website has indicated the same April 13, 2020 next available date (for all plan types posted) since approximately January 13, 2020. It appears they may be steadily catching up by eliminating duplicate appointments and thus opening up review capacity. Or their computer system is locked up somehow?
Shown below is information from the DSPS website, including the following DSPS explanation of their Availability Report.
This calendar lists the next available review date with a two (2)-hour time block for all areas with the exception of Commercial Buildings, which shows a six (6)-hour duration of available time. Please contact the Department if you have additional questions about the scheduling of a plan, especially if its review time may be less than or exceed the time blocks described below.
PROGRAM NEXT AVAILABLE DATE
1 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – COMPLEX (TYPE: IA, IB, IIA, IV; 4 OR MORE FLOORS) 04-13-2020
2 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – STANDARD (TYPE: ALL OTHERS, 3 OR LESS FLOORS) 04-13-2020
3 FIRE ALARM 04-13-2020
4 FIRE SUPPRESSION 04-13-2020
5 ELEVATORS 04-13-2020
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Robert G. DuPont
2/28/2020 Commercial Building Code Council Meeting in March
Greetings!
The DSPS calendar shows a scheduled meeting of the Commercial Building Code Council on March 11, 2020, at 9:30 a.m., in Room N206, at the DSPS Madison Office.
Earlier today, on behalf of the ARC, I submitted the attached Public Agenda Request Form to the Department. This relates to simplification of plan review participation fees now charged to second class cities and appointed agents that conduct state level plan review of commercial buildings. In the past we have asked for repeal of the statutes that require such fees be collected by the DSPS. However, because we have not been successful in that vein, I am now advocating simplification of the fees that are set by administrative rule. I am in the process of updating the White Paper concerning this issue, and will share it with you as soon as it is finished.
I will let you know what I hear from the Department relative to my agenda request. Thank you for your interest in this matter!
DSPS PublicAgendaRequestForm CBC Council 2020-2-28
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Robert G. DuPont
2/26/2020 2 Inspectors Fired Amid NOLA Hard Rock Reports : PaintSquare News
2/25/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
Assembly Bill 655, concerning regulation of home inspectors under Chapter 440, Wisconsin Statutes.
Assembly Bill 665, concerning authorizing the Wisconsin Propane Education and Research Council to levy an assessment.
Assembly Bill 781, concerning allowance of a 24-month inspection frequency for certain chemical recovery boilers.
Assembly Bill 791, concerning extending the private on-site wastewater treatment system replacement or rehabilitation grant program.
—
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
2/25/2020 REQUEST FOR BIDS – RFB: Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) Inspection Services – Outreach Letter from the State of Wisconsin
Dear UDC Inspection Professional,
In the upcoming weeks, the Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) in collaboration with the Department of Administration (DOA) will be soliciting a Request for Bids (RFB). This RFB will pertain solely to the inspection / permitting services of new dwellings covered under the Uniform Dwelling Code (UDC) in municipalities that have not adopted the UDC in their local ordinances.
Attached to this correspondence you will find an outreach letter from DOA which includes specific instructions explaining how interested parties can register with that agency to receive the actual RFB. Note that you must register directly with DOA in order to receive the actual RFB materials and to respond electronically to the RFB. For issues pertaining directly to this registration process, contact DOA at the number provided in this attached letter.
UDC Bidder Outreach Letter 2020
We look forward to working with you in this collaborative effort.
Regards,
Lenny Kanter
UDC Engineering Consultant
Industry Services Division
Department of Safety and Professional Services
608-261-6541 office
608-225-1855 cell
2/24/2020 Complimentary ACI Convention Registration – Spring 2020
From: Karla Higgs <KHiggs@iccsafe.org>
Date: Mon, Feb 24, 2020 at 2:23 PM
Subject: Complimentary ACI Convention Registration – Spring 2020
To: chapters <chapters@iccsafe.org>
American Concrete Institute has asked the International Code Council to extend an invitation to ICC Chapter Officers and Directors in the area of the ACI Convention this spring, March 29 – April 1, 2020 in Rosemont, IL (Chicagoland).
ACI is offering you a complimentary registration to this convention.
Please find attached the invite letter with registration information, select activities, a convention preview and a first time attendee flyer. I hope you’re able to accept ACI’s generous invitation.
2020 Spring Code Official Invite 200207
200207 Select Activities for Code Officials
Thank you!
Karla Price Higgs
Vice President, Member Services
International Code Council
Eastern Regional Office
900 Montclair Road
Birmingham, AL 35213
khiggs@iccsafe.org
1-888-422-7233 x 5268
2/24/2020 Draft ARC Meeting Summary
2/24/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
As of this morning, February 24, 2020, DSPS plan review availability is as follows:
- The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 7 weeks (down from 8 weeks as last reported on February 17th).
- The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 7 weeks (down from 8 weeks as last reported).
- The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 7 weeks (down from 8 weeks as last reported).
2/20/2020 Letter from DSPS concerning plan review
2/20/2020 News article about SB 820 hearing
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2/20/2020 Report on SB 820 Senate Committee Hearing
- Lead sponsor, Senator Roth and lead cosponsor, Representative Rodriguez
- John Schulze, representing the Associated Builders and Contractors
- Jeff Beiriger, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling-
Contractors, Wisconsin Association – in favor of the plumbing related provisions.
- Mike Tierney, DSPS
- Richard Paur, City of Milwaukee
- John Eagon, Premium Planview
- Bill Babcock, American Institute of Architects, Wisconsin Society
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2/20/2020 air sealing a home
Hi, Attached is a link to a YouTube video of the air sealing method discussed yesterday at the UDC code update. I think you will find it interesting
Dave Everson
UDC Inspector
City of Superior
https://www.youtube.com/watch?
2/18/2020 ARC testimony on SB 820
2/18/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
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2/17/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
As of this morning, February 17, 2020, DSPS plan review availability is as follows:
- The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 8 weeks (down from 9 weeks as last reported on February 10th).
- The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 8 weeks (down from 9 weeks as last reported).
- The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 8 weeks (down from 9 weeks as last reported).
2/17/2020 Report on ARC meeting concerning SB 820
02/17/2020 NOTICE OF NEXT NWBIA MEETING
10:30 Call to Order – Any new members? Introductions if necessary
10:35 Secretary’s report / Treasurer’s report
10:45 Old Business
Jan 16 Concrete meeting update Craig Moriak
Feb Winter update discussion Jared Grande
Arc Fault tester update Brian Wert and Dan Kegley
11:30 New Business
April 15-17 Leauge Inspectors Conference Delavan WI Craig Moriak
ICC training date and info Craig Moriak
WOCA membership renewal John Dahl
DSPS Staff Discussion
Electrical Steve Ramussen
UDC ???
Commercial Joe Merchak
Annual Outing discussion
02/16/2020 FEMA Updates Public Assistance Policy : PaintSquare News
https://www.paintsquare.com/news/?fuseaction=view&id=22039&nl_versionid=5781
02/15/2020 Draft ARC hearing testimony concerning DSPS plan review
In preparation for the ARC member meeting concerning 2019 Senate Bill 820, relating to DSPS commercial building and plumbing plan review, I have prepared documents that reflect two different positions relative to the bill. One position would appose the bill, and recommend amendments to the bill. The other position would simply oppose the bill.
The attached amendment that could accompany ARC testimony is the same as what I recommended to ARC earlier, with one addition. In response to concerns expressed by the Wisconsin Fire Inspectors Association, I expanded the possible ARC amendment to allow the continued state level review of plans for fire detection, prevention and suppression systems in buildings smaller than 50,000 cubic feet of volume.
The attached documents will be the starting point for discussion during the ARC member meeting on Monday, February 17, 2020, in Sun Prairie. For those not participating in the meeting on Monday, please let me know of any concerns or comments by 10 a.m. on Monday, February 17th.
On a related note, I was informed yesterday that the League of Wisconsin Municipalities has not taken a position on the bill, and that they will likely defer to ARC on the matter.
2019 SB 820 testimony to Senate Committee 2020-2-19
2019 SB 820 testimony to Senate Committee without amendment recommendation 2020-2-19
ARC amendment to SB 820 2020-2-15
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
—
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/14/2020 Legislation introduced to change DSPS plan review programs
Greetings!
2019 Senate Bill 820, relating to DSPS commercial building and plumbing plan review, was introduced today. The Senate Committee on Economic Development, Commerce and Trade, will hold a public hearing on the bill next Wednesday, February 19th, at 10:00 a.m., in Room 330 Southwest, State Capitol.
So far, one ARC member organization has expressed opposition to both the bill and the amendment I recommended to ARC members. The Wisconsin Fire Inspectors Association has expressed opposition to the bill, and my suggested amendment, because under both scenarios, the DSPS would be prohibited from requiring plan review for fire suppression systems and fire alarm systems serving certain buildings. Under the bill, the prohibition would apply to certain buildings having less than 200,000 cubic feet of volume. Under my suggested amendment, the prohibition would apply to certain buildings having less than 50,000 cubic feet of volume.
The Plumbing, Heating, Cooling Contractors – Wisconsin Association, has expressed support for my suggested amendment as it pertains to plumbing plan review.
At the request of the Wisconsin Code Officials Alliance, there will be a meeting of ARC members to discuss this bill, and my suggested amendment, on Monday, February 17, 2020, from 9 to 11 a.m., at the City of Sun Prairie Fire Department Station Two, 2598 W. Main Street, Sun Prairie, WI. Soon thereafter, I will send an update to all ARC members.
My hope is for the ARC to arrive at a position that is satisfactory to all ARC members, so we can provide testimony during the hearing. Perhaps we can agree to oppose the bill unless it is amended as I suggested earlier AND the amendment includes a carve out for fire suppression and alarm systems to continue being reviewed at the state level in buildings below 50,000 cubic feet of volume.
Time is of the essence concerning this bill because it is very late in the legislative session. Word is that the Assembly will not meet after February 20th. If that is true, this bill, or an Assembly companion bill, would have to pass the Assembly by next Thursday, Feb. 20. I asked the office of my state Representative about the situation and their response follows below. Note that there could be a change of plans where the Assembly could meet yet in March; although I am advised that is very unlikely.
Thank you for contacting our office about the legislative calendar. The last general floor period for the legislature was slated to be March 24 – 26, 2020. However, we have been told in the Assembly that the last day for this chamber will be February 20th as this is what the Speaker’s office has indicated their plans to be at the moment. While this may very well end up being the case, the possibility is always there that the Assembly could reconvene because of the desire for a veto override, a special session being called, or just because the Speaker changes his mind. Hope this helps.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/13/2020 ARC member meeting set for Monday, Feb. 17
Greetings!
The ARC member meeting to discuss Bill Draft LRB-5307, concerning DSPS plan review programs, will take place on Monday, February 17th, from 9 – 11 a.m. We will meet at the City of Sun Prairie Fire Department Station Two, 2598 W. Main Street, Sun Prairie, WI.
All ten people who have responded to the survey so far are able to meet on Monday. They are: Matt Mertens, Scott Satula, Richard Paur, Brian Flannery, Jonathan Kowalski, Jeff Beiriger, Joel Meier, Brad Neumeister, Ed Lisinski, and Vern Green.
Also, Jonathan Kowalski, with the Plumbing Mechanical Sheet Metal Contractors Alliance, has offered us the use of their conference call service for this meeting. If you plan to participate via telephone, please let me know. I have purchased a conference speaker phone for our use.
The call in number is: (712) 775-7031, and the Access Code is: 198246833
Relative to networking with other interested parties, I have invited Bill Babcock, Executive Director of AIA-WI, to join in this meeting. I believe his participation could be helpful to all parties involved.
Thank you!
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/12/2020 Municipal authority to require building permits and building plan review
Greetings!
I developed the attached Q&A for ARC members, in response to questions about whether or not the uniform application of the Wisconsin Commercial Building Code restricts municipalities from requiring plan review for buildings smaller than what the WCBC requires. The short answer is that the WCBC does not restrict such actions by municipalities.
101.02 concerning CBC uniformity 2020-2-12
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/11/2020 Corrected possible amendment to plan review bill
Greetings!
Attached is a revised possible ARC amendment to the bill draft LRB-5307/2 concerning DSPS plan review.
This revised version includes a change in footnote d of SPS Table 382.20-2, to reflect the change from 16 fixtures to 25 fixtures.
Thanks go to Brian Flannery for catching my mistake.
ARC amendment to LRB 5307 2020-2-11
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/11/2020 Latest bill draft concerning DSPS plan review – and possible ARC amendment to the bill
Greetings!
Attached is the latest bill draft, LRB-5307/2, concerning plan review programs of the DSPS. This latest bill draft reflects the deletion of Treatment Sections 4, 5 and 6 from the preliminary bill draft LRB-5307/P2, which was previously sent to you. Those treatment sections addressed owners choice of plan review services between delegated municipalities and the DSPS.
Also attached is a possible ARC amendment to the bill. This amendment would reduce the size of commercial buildings for which plans would be exempt from review by the DSPS, from 200,000 to 50,000 cubic feet of volume.
The amendment would also expand the occupancy types of commercial buildings for which plumbing plans would be exempt from review by the DSPS. And it would focus on changing the codified trigger for the DSPS review of general plumbing plans while leaving the current plan review triggers in place for other plumbing components and systems as specified in SPS Table 382.20-1 and SPS Table 382.20-2. Currently the codified trigger for DSPS plumbing plan review is not tied to building occupancy type.
My sense is that the Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin are open to amending the plumbing plan review portion of the bill. Not so sure about their feelings on changing 200,000 to 50,000.
Please review the attached documents and provide any comments or suggestions by end of business on Thursday, February 13th.
If anyone would like to meet to discuss this matter, please let me know ASAP. Facilities are available for us in Sun Prairie any morning next week.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
19-5307_2 bill draft on DSPS plan review 2020-2-11
ARC amendment to LRB 5307 2020-2-11
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/11/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
Greetings!
Attached is the latest legislation status report to ARC members about Bills and Acts that relate to Safety and Buildings Programs or Industries. Changes since the last report on February 4th, are shown in red.
On February 5th, Governor Evers signed 2019 Wisconsin Act 91 and 2019 Wisconsin Act 94, relating to: code application to stairway chair lifts in old churches; and retired credential status for architects, professional engineers, designers and professional land surveyors, respectively.
Also, upon hearing no objections from ARC members, yesterday I registered the ARC in support of AB 665 and SB 607, which authorize the Wisconsin Propane Education and Research Council to levy an assessment. Among other things, revenue from the assessment would be used for safety training and education for the industry and consumers.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
2019-20 Leg. Session Tracking Chart 2020-2-11
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/10/2020 More analysis of legislative proposal to change DSPS plan review programs
Greetings!
Attached is a follow-up report regarding LRB-5307/P2, the preliminary bill draft to change plan review triggers for certain commercial buildings and plumbing systems and components. This follow-up report augments my original report dated February 7, 2020.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
Follow-up report to ARC on LRB-5307-P2_2020-2-10
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/10/2020 DSPS Plan Review Availability
Greetings!
As of this morning, February 10, 2020, DSPS plan review availability is as follows:
- The wait for complex commercial building plan review is 9 weeks (down from 10 weeks as last reported on February 3rd).
- The wait for standard commercial building plan review is 9 weeks (down from 10 weeks as last reported).
- The wait for fire alarm and fire suppression plan review is 9 weeks (down from 10 weeks as last reported).
Shown below is information from the DSPS website, including the following DSPS explanation of their Availability Report.
This calendar lists the next available review date with a two (2)-hour time block for all areas with the exception of Commercial Buildings, which shows a six (6)-hour duration of available time. Please contact the Department if you have additional questions about the scheduling of a plan, especially if its review time may be less than or exceed the time blocks described below.
| PROGRAM | NEXT AVAILABLE DATE |
| 1 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – COMPLEX (TYPE: IA, IB, IIA, IV; 4 OR MORE FLOORS) | 04-13-2020 |
| 2 COMMERCIAL BLDGS – STANDARD (TYPE: ALL OTHERS, 3 OR LESS FLOORS) | 04-13-2020 |
| 3 FIRE ALARM | 04-13-2020 |
| 4 FIRE SUPPRESSION | 04-13-2020 |
| 5 ELEVATORS | 04-13-2020 |
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/07/2020 Daily Reporter Article on DSPS Plan Review Legislation
Greetings!
Attached is a copy of an article in the Daily Reporter that was published this afternoon. It may provide more insight and perspective relative to the proposal.
Thanks go to Brian Flannery for sharing the article with us.
Daily Reporter Article 2020-2-7
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/07/2020 Legislative proposal to change DSPS plan review programs
Greetings!
Attached is LRB-5307/P2, a preliminary bill draft that is being routed among legislators for sponsorship. Advocates of this bill hope to have it passed during this current legislative session, which has its last general-business floor period scheduled to end on March 26, 2020. Also attached is my report and recommendations to ARC members regarding this preliminary bill draft.
Please review the bill draft and my report, and send comments or suggestions to me by the end of business on Thursday, February 13, 2020. I know that is a tight timeline, but I believe time is of the essence in this matter. Also, please let me know if you believe a meeting of ARC members is needed to discuss this matter.
At this point, I hope to have an ARC position decided by the end of next week, so we can communicate our position and recommendations to legislators soon thereafter. If any ARC member would like to abstain from taking a position on this matter, please let me know. In such a case, your organization would not be included in ARC correspondence regarding this matter.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
19-5307_P2 Preliminary bill draft on DSPS plan review
Report to ARC on LRB-5307-P2_2020-2-7
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/06/2020 Report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects
Greetings!
Attached is an updated report to ARC on DSPS rule change projects that deal with the safety and buildings programs of the Department. Changes are shown in red.
The DSPS calendar shows no future code committee or code council meetings. The Plumbing Code Advisory Committee met on January 23, 2020, and the Commercial Building Code Council met on January 29, 2020. You can view the meeting agendas and handouts by following the links associated with each committee / council.
Although I was unable to attend the meetings, I can report that during both there was discussion and consideration relative to the codified triggers for state level plan review. The current DSPS plan review backlog has raised interest in those triggers. The Associated Builders and Contractors of Wisconsin presented ideas for changing those triggers, and indicated that they are pursuing possible statutory changes in this regard. I have been in contact with the ABC and the DSPS and will provide updates as soon as I can.
In addition, the Department shared an updated code change proposal concerning inspection and testing of fire and smoke dampers with the CBC Council, which voted to recommend the proposal as presented. All of the ARC recommended changes were included in the latest Department proposal.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
DSPS Rule Change Monthly Chart 2020-2-6
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/05/2020 Recommendation to support propane legislation
Greetings!
The Wisconsin Propane Gas Association has requested that the ARC express support for 2019 Assembly Bill 665 and Senate Bill 607; identical bills which would authorize the Wisconsin Propane Education and Research Council to levy an assessment on propane sold in Wisconsin. Funds generated through the assessment program would go towards education, training, rebate and safety programs for propane employees, customers and the general public. Both bills have been recommended for passage by the legislative committees assigned to review them.
I recommend the Alliance for Regulatory Coordination express support for these bills because education and training focused on fire safety is an effective strategy for reducing fire-related injuries to employees, fire fighters and the general public, as well as reducing the likelihood of property damage. Attached is a one page letter that describes the bills. The legislature is scheduled to be in session February 11-20, 2020, and may take up these bills during that period.
Please let me know by end of business on Monday, February 10, 2020, if you have any concerns with the ARC expressing support for these bills. If there are no objections from ARC Classic Members, I will register the ARC in support via the Wisconsin Ethics Commission website on the evening of February 10th. If your organization would like to abstain from taking a position on this matter, please let me know so that your name can be removed from any ARC lobby communications on this matter.
Thank you for your interest in this matter!
CO_SPONSORSHIP LETTER_UPDATED-1 – Propane Assesment Program 2019-11-1
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/04/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
Greetings!
Attached is the latest legislation status report to ARC members about Bills and Acts that relate to Safety and Buildings Programs or Industries. Changes since the last report on January 29th, are shown in red.
Universal changing stations; real estate radon disclosures; radon-resistant building construction materials and techniques; trampoline park licensing, registered electrician renewals; statements of scope; and DSPS credentialing procedures (not involving statute chapters 101 or 145), are all topics of bills added to the report this week.
Thank you for your interest in these matters!
2019-20 Leg. Session Tracking Chart 2020-2-4
Robert G. DuPont
Regulatory Guidance and Design, LLC
(608) 712-2398
02/04/2020 ICC Government Relations Chapter Monthly Update – February 2020
2020 February ICC Chapter Update
01/29/2020 Legislation status report to ARC
Robert G. DuPont
(608) 712-2398
01/29/2020 Hearing on Scope – SPS 320 – 325, 326 – Update to Uniform Dwelling (One and 2-family dwellings) Code and Manufactured Home Communities
DSPS has an open Scope Statement to update the Administrative Code to reflect changes made in recent legislation relating to the UDC. The Scope was provided to you in the packet for your December 20, 2019 meeting. The Scope has been approved by the Governor. It was also sent to the Joint Committee for Review of Administrative Rules (JCRAR) who directed DSPS to hold a Public Hearing on the Scope. The Notice of Hearing on Scope (click here to view) has been published in the Administrative Register and has been open for public comment. To date we have received no public comments on the Scope Statement.
You are welcome to attend, however, you are not required to attend. The purpose of the meeting is to solicit public comment on the Scope Statement. No discussion on the Scope Statement or any rule changes will take place at the hearing.
Following the public hearing, the Scope will be implemented and rule drafting can begin.
Please let me now if you have any questions.
Kevyn Radcliffe
Administrative Rules Coordinator
Division of Policy Development
4822 Madison Yards Way
PO Box 8366
Madison WI 53708-8366
(608)266-0797