During a webinar this week hosted by the International Code Council, building officials from throughout the U.S. shared their experiences with remote inspections as the coronavirus outbreak forces them to do their jobs while abiding by social distancing requirements, according to www.constructiondive.com.
Building inspectors are using tools such as Facetime, Skype, Google Duo and Microsoft Teams to perform inspections. The consensus was that as long as the inspection would be visually based under normal circumstances, an inspection via video is acceptable. Some challenges inspectors have encountered include persuading older inspectors to use the technology and communicating effectively to contractors and the public the steps needed to schedule and carry out an inspection.
However, according to a recent ICC survey, 40% of building department respondents said they do not have the capability to do electronic plan review; 30% do not have the capability to do electronic permitting; and more than 60% do not have the capability to do remote inspections. Amid COVID-19 social distancing measures, the ICC found 93% of departments are still performing inspections and 65% have at least some staff transitioned to work remotely. Of the departments still performing in-person inspections, most are either practicing social distancing while their personnel is on the project or are limiting inspections to exteriors only. Most departments responded they are not performing in-person inspections in occupied spaces.
The ICC’s recommendations to building departments considering a video inspection program are to first get authorization from their governing authorities; engage in clear communication with contractors and other customers; implement online security measures; establish and adhere to recordkeeping requirements; determine whether existing software tools can be expanded to accommodate the new video program; and ensure remote staff members have access to current building codes and standards.
The video inspection process typically involves one contractor representative on-site and practicing social distancing. The on-site rep can show the inspector approved plans, take simple measurements and make on-site work visible and clear to the inspector on the other end of the connection.
Building officials participating in the ICC webinar that have either chosen to begin a video inspection program or were forced to do it because of the COVID-19 pandemic said they will continue using this efficient method of inspection after the health crisis is over.
