Building Safety Month 2026
May marks Building Safety Month, a global campaign spearheaded by the International Code Council (ICC). In 2026, we’re embracing the theme “Built to Last,” focusing on the importance of strong construction practices, up-to-date codes, and the skilled professionals who help keep our communities safe.
Building on this theme, we also invite younger learners to explore how safety is built into the world around them through our Kids Corner, where they can enjoy fun downloadable activities and even earn a Junior Code Official Certificate.
Week 1: Safe Homes, Strong Communities
May 1-10
Focuses on how safe homes create safe communities by raising awareness of common household hazards and the simple steps to prevent them. It encourages regular maintenance like testing alarms, checking electrical and plumbing systems, and keeping safety features in working order, while also stressing the importance of following proper permits and building codes to ensure long-term safety and resilience.
Click HERE to view this week's resources.
Week 2: Voices of the Built Environment
May 11-17
Highlights the essential role of building safety professionals, such as inspectors, code officials, and fire marshals, who help ensure homes and buildings are safe. It recognizes their expertise in enforcing building codes, conducting inspections, and guiding construction and renovation projects, while celebrating their contributions to protecting communities and promoting careers in the building safety field.
Click HERE to view this week's resources.
Week 3: Prepared to Protect
May 18-24
Focuses on the importance of disaster preparedness and resilient construction in protecting lives and property. It highlights how strong building codes, smart design, and proactive planning, like creating emergency plans, assembling supply kits, and understanding local risks, help communities better withstand and recover from disasters such as floods, wildfires, and storms.
Click HERE to view this week's resources.
Week 4: Communities Without Limits
May 25-31
Highlights the importance of removing physical, sensory, and cognitive barriers in the built environment by promoting spaces that are intuitive and easy to navigate, with features like step-free entrances, clear signage, and accessible routes. It emphasizes that accessible design benefits everyone and supports safety in both everyday use and emergencies, helping create more inclusive communities.
Kids Corner
Ever wonder what makes schools, homes, and businesses safe? Kids Corner is where kids can explore how safety is built into the world around them. Here they’ll find a variety of fun downloadable activities, including an activity book, coloring pages, safety tips, and tools to help create an emergency plan or even make their own proclamation. Kids can also earn a Junior Code Official certificate as they learn more about building safety in an engaging and hands-on way.
Ready to build your safety skills? Click HERE to start exploring!