N.J. Admin. Code § 5:23-5.20

Current through Register Vol. 56, No. 17, September 3, 2024

Section 5:23-5.20 - Standards for educational programs

(a) To carry out their responsibilities, code enforcement officials must be fully knowledgeable about code standards and adequately prepared to administer and enforce them properly. Code enforcement officials have the necessary technical and administrative training to effectively enforce the Uniform Construction Code at the local level. This article adopts explicit guidelines and standards for code enforcement official educational programs. Procedures governing the approval of such educational programs set forth in 5:23-5.24.

(b) This subsection covers the organizational, administrative and operational functions that support the code enforcement educational programs.

1. Purposes and objectives: Programs for the effective education of code enforcement officials are expected to operate with appropriate purposes and objectives. An institution seeking initial and continuing approval of education programs should include in its category clearly defined statements of such purposes and objectives.

2. Organization: Sound educational programs can be operated effectively only when supported by adequate institutional arrangements. Accordingly, only programs offered by or under the auspices of institutions of higher education, licensed by the New Jersey Commission on Higher Education can be considered for approval.

i. The provisions of (b)2 above notwithstanding, the Commissioner may approve other training programs, such as those conducted by an evaluation or inspection agency authorized to enforce standards adopted pursuant to the Interstate Compact on Industrialized/Modular Buildings, where the students are solely code enforcement officials employed by the agency or by national model code organizations. The educational program proposal by any such evaluation or inspection agency must be submitted to the Department in the form specified in N.J.A.C. 5:23-5.24.

3. Admission, retention and evaluation policies and practices:

i. Admission to code enforcement official education programs: Provision should be made within the institution for orderly methods of obtaining and filing information relative to candidates applying for admission to code enforcement official education programs.

ii. Grading: An institution shall have evaluation procedures, including a mid-term and final examination, to assess the quality of its students when they complete programs and, at the very least, establish and apply pass/fail criteria.

iii. Retention: The nature of professional code enforcement studies calls for achievement and growth in technical competence. An institution should determine as objectively and systematically as possible specific strengths and weaknesses of the student as these effect the continuation of the student in code enforcement education programs.

iv. Evaluation: The institution should design and implement a well-defined plan for continuing evaluation of students enrolled in code enforcement programs. Measures of academic ability, observation by faculty (in courses, laboratories and field experiences) and other modes of appraisal should be utilized to assess specific strengths and weaknesses as they affect the student's retention within the education programs, readiness to assume a professional role in code enforcement.

4. Student personnel:

i. Supporting student services: Each student should know where to secure guidance and who is officially responsible for this program. Attention must be given to a plan for maintaining desirable student-faculty relationships.

ii. Student records: It is the responsibility of the institution to maintain an adequate system of student personnel accounting, including a permanent cumulative record of each student enrolled. To facilitate ready interpretation by licensing authorities, the graduate is entitled to an intelligible and adequate transcript of record, including a statement of course titles.

5. Faculty: Faculty members should be competent in their fields and have contacts with code enforcement environments and other sources so their teaching and research are current and relevant.

i. Faculty competence: The quality of the faculty is one of the more important factors in judging the effectiveness of an institution. Appraisal of the faculty should be made in terms of its competence to provide the program for which approval is being sought. Each faculty member, in subject matter and in professional fields, should have a high degree of competency in his area. The faculty consists of those instructors who teach in the curriculums and all personnel who direct students in all types of activities included as part of the curriculums. Those who teach courses should be familiar with practices in the code enforcement professional and/or building construction technology generally.

ii. Part-time faculty: The institution, recognizing that an appropriate faculty is one of the major determinants of the quality of its educational programs, should make provision for the use of part-time or adjunct faculty.

(1) No individual who has ever had a license suspended for a period of six months or more or has ever had a licensed revoked for any reason set forth in 5:23-5.25 shall be eligible to instruct code enforcement educational programs.

iii. Instruction: The institution will be expected to evaluate instruction systematically based on the performance of its students within the institution. Consideration will be given to such items as the performance of the student in class tests, the quality of their subsequent work, and the degree to which the institution as a whole attains its goals in the preparation of code enforcement personnel. The institution should show that it utilizes a variety of appropriate instructional procedures which contribute to the effectiveness of the student's preparation, such as class discussions, lectures, laboratory work, and newer media.

6. Facilities and instructional materials: The institution shall provide physical facilities, instructional materials and other resources essential for conducting education programs.

i. Building and grounds: An institution should have a physical plant designed to serve effectually its defined purposes for education.

ii. Library: The library, as the principal materials resource center of the institution, should be adequate for the instructional research and other services pertinent to the code enforcement educational programs.

iii. Laboratories: Each institution should be provided with laboratory equipment sufficient for instructional purposes for each program offered.

iv. Inspection experiences: Each institution should establish a field experience center or centers either as part of the institution or in cooperation with nearby code enforcement agencies. These may be organized for field inspection experiences.

(c) All courses for credit toward a code enforcement official license should be designed to meet the following general standards:

1. Standard I, Institutional responsibility: Each institution is responsible for developing its code enforcement courses within the general policies relating to education and licensure of code enforcement officials in the State.

2. Standard II, Statement of objectives: Each course should be built upon a clear-cut statement of its purpose and objectives. These statements should be prepared by the instructors concerned, should be based on analysis of current practices and recommendations of the professional organizations representing this field, and should be available in writing.

3. Standard III, Statement of competencies: Each code enforcement course should be built on a clearly formulated statement of the competencies needed in the area.

4. Standard IV, Evaluation and recommendation of the student: Each course should include provision for a systematic program of evaluation procedures to determine the degree of the student's attainment of competency. These evaluation procedures should serve as the basis for recommending the student for credit toward the appropriate license.

5. Standard V, Supporting facilities and schedule: Each course should be supported by plant, facilities, equipment, library, and media resources and should include opportunities for field or laboratory experiences. Meeting-time adequate to implement a schedule course, including appropriate field and laboratory experiences, should be provided.

6. Standard VI, Staff: Each course should be staffed by instructors well-qualified by training and experience in the subject matter of the particular course area.

(d) Building inspector R.C.S.: The program designed to satisfy the educational requirements for licensure as a building inspector R.C.S. shall consist of a minimum of 90 hours of instruction in the following subject areas. The program shall provide instruction in the following technical and administrative areas with the specified texts as they apply to the plan review of class 3 buildings and the inspection of all structures as established at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

1. Area 1 shall consist of the following:

i. Administration (N.J.A.C. 5:23-2);

ii. Subcodes (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3);

iii. An overview of the New Home Warranty Program (N.J.A.C. 5:25); and

iv. Legal and ethical aspects of code enforcement.

2. Area 2 shall consist of the building provisions of the one and two-family dwelling code adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Definitions;

ii. Building planning;

iii. Foundations;

iv. Floors;

v. Wall construction;

vi. Wall covering;

vii. Roof-ceiling construction;

viii. Roof coverings; and

ix. Chimneys and fireplaces.

3. Area 3 shall consist of the mechanical provisions of the one and two-family dwelling code adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Definitions;

ii. General mechanical system requirements;

iii. Vented floors and heaters;

iv. Exhaust systems;

v. Duct systems;

vi. Chimneys and vents; and

vii. Special fuel burning equipment.

4. Area 4 shall consist of the building subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Use groups;

ii. Construction types;

iii. General building limitations;

iv. Structural loads;

v. Foundation and retaining walls;

vi. Concrete;

vii. Masonry;

viii. Wood;

ix. Steel;

x. Roof and roof structures;

xi. Exterior wall coverings;

xii. Glass and glazing;

xiii. Fire resistant materials and construction;

xiv. Interior finishes;

xv. Gypsum board and plaster;

xvi. Interior environment;

xvii. Means of egress; and

xviii. Special use and occupancy.

5. Area 5 shall consist of the mechanical subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Air distribution;

ii. Chimneys and vents;

iii. Fireplaces; and

iv. Ventilation.

6. Area 6 shall consist of the Rehabilitation Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-6), including:

i. Scoping;

ii. Mixed uses;

iii. Special technical requirements, all uses;

iv. Change of use;

v. Additions; and

vi. Historic buildings.

7. Area 7 shall consist of the Barrier Free Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-7).

8. Area 8 shall consist of the Radon Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-10);

9. Area 9 shall be field and laboratory experience which shall include the following:

i. The review of plans for a class III building using a model checklist; and

ii. The inspection of a structure using a model checklist.

10. The texts to be used in the building inspector R.C.S. program shall include, but not be limited to, the model codes adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3 as the building subcode, the one-and two-family dwelling subcode, and the mechanical subcode, the Uniform Construction Code Act (52:27D-119 et seq.), and the Uniform Construction Code rules (N.J.A.C. 5:23).

(e) Building inspector I.C.S.: The program designed to satisfy the educational requirements for licensure as a building inspector I.C.S. shall consist of a minimum of 75 hours of instruction in the following areas. The program shall provide instruction in the following technical areas with the specified texts as they apply to the plan review of class 2 buildings and the inspection of all structures as established at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

1. Completion of an educational program meeting the requirements for building inspector R.C.S. shall be a prerequisite for registration in the educational program for building inspector I.C.S.

2. Area 1 shall consist of the building subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Use groups;

ii. Construction types;

iii. Special use and occupancy;

iv. General building limitations;

v. Structural loads, including:

(1) Wind loading;

(2) Snow loads; and

(3) Seismic loads;

vi. Foundation and retaining walls;

vii. Concrete;

viii. Masonry;

ix. Wood;

x. Steel;

xi. Elevators and conveying systems;

xii. Special construction;

xiii. Roofs and roof structures;

xiv. Fire protection systems;

xv. Exterior wall coverings;

xvi. Glass and glazing;

xvii. Fire resistant materials and construction;

xviii. Interior finishes;

xix. Gypsum board and plaster;

xx. Interior environments; and

xxi. Means of egress.

3. Area 2 shall consist of the mechanical subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Air distribution;

ii. Chimneys and vents; and

iii. Ventilation.

4. Area 3 shall consist of the Uniform Construction Code, as follows:

i. Administration (at N.J.A.C. 5:23-2);

ii. Subcodes (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3);

iii. Rehabilitation Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-6), including:

(1) Scoping;

(2) Mixed uses;

(3) Special technical requirements, all uses;

(4) Change of use;

(5) Additions; and

(6) Historic buildings; and

iv. Barrier Free Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-7).

5. Area 4 shall consist of the following field and laboratory experience:

i. The review of plans for a Class 2 structure using a model checklist;

ii. The inspection of a Class 2 structure using a model checklist; and

iii. An overview of standard forms (5:23-4.5).

6. The texts to be used in the building inspector I.C.S. program shall include, but not be limited to, the model codes adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3 as the building subcode and mechanical subcode, the Uniform Construction Code Act (52:27D-119 et seq.), and the Uniform Construction Code rules (N.J.A.C. 5:23).

(f) Building inspector H.H.S.: The program designed to satisfy the educational requirements for licensure as a building inspector H.H.S. shall consist of a minimum of 60 hours of instruction in the following technical and administrative areas with the specified texts as they apply to the plan review of class 1 structures and the inspection of all structures as established at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

1. Completion of an educational program meeting the requirements for building inspector I.C.S. shall be a prerequisite for registration in the educational program for building inspector H.H.S.

2. Area 1 shall consist of the building subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Use groups;

ii. Construction types;

iii. Special use and occupancy, including:

(1) Covered malls;

(2) High rise buildings;

(3) Hazardous production materials (HPM) facilities;

(4) Hazardous materials; and

(5) Use Group H (Hazardous);

iv. General building maintenance;

v. Structural loads, including:

(1) Wind loading;

(2) Seismic loads; and

(3) Snow loads;

vi. Foundation and retaining walls;

vii. Concrete;

viii. Masonry;

ix. Wood;

x. Steel;

xi. Elevators and conveying systems;

xii. Special construction;

xiii. Roofs and roof structures;

xiv. Fire protection systems;

xv. Exterior wall coverings;

xvi. Glass and glazing;

xvii. Fire resistant materials and construction;

xviii. Interior finishes;

xix. Gypsum board and plaster;

xx. Interior environments; and

xxi. Means of egress.

3. Area 2 shall consist of the mechanical subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Air distribution; and

ii. Ventilation.

4. Area 3 shall consist of the following:

i. Administration (N.J.A.C. 5:23-2);

ii. Subcodes (N.J.A.C. 5:23-3);

iii. Rehabilitation Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-6), including:

(1) Scoping;

(2) Basic and supplemental requirements of Use Groups B, M, R, and S;

(3) Mixed uses;

(4) Special technical requirements, all uses;

(5) Additions; and

(6) Historic buildings; and

iv. Barrier Free Subcode (N.J.A.C. 5:23-7);

5. Area 4 shall consist of the following field and laboratory experience:

i. The review of plans for a Class 1 structure using a model checklist;

ii. The inspection of a Class 1 structure using a model checklist; and

iii. An overview of the standard forms (5:23-4.5).

6. The texts to be used in the building inspector H.H.S. program shall include, but not be limited to, the model codes adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3 as the building subcode and mechanical subcode, the Uniform Construction Code Act (52:27D-119 et seq.), and the Uniform Construction Code rules (N.J.A.C. 5:23).

(g) Electrical inspector I.C.S.: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for licensure as an electrical inspector I.C.S.

1. Subject requirements:

i. The program shall consist of two major subjects as specified below and shall provide at least 30 hours of instruction in each subject.

ii. It shall ensure technical competencies in the following as they apply to class 2 and class 3 structures as established at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

2. Subject 1, Systems design:

i. Electrical service sizing and design to ensure adequate electrical service.

ii. Branch circuit and feeder design including conductor sizing and over-current protection requirements for the various types of circuits, including general lighting and power, appliance and motor circuits, switchboard and panelboard systems.

iii. Requirements for special fixtures, methods and devices required by the code in particular circumstances.

3. Subject 2, Plan review and field inspection:

i. Area 1, Uniform Construction Code:

(1) Organization and content of the Uniform Construction Code regulations and organization and content of the electrical subcode.

(2) Fundamental knowledge of electrical subcode's background, purpose, history, place in local government structure and relation to construction code enforcement programs at other levels of government.

(3) Basic classification of structures into class categories.

ii. Area 2, Plan review:

(1) Methods of systematic plans analysis. Identification of information that must be shown on the plans to insure compliance with the requirements of the code.

(2) Material requirements found in the code, including the ability to recognize approved material and standards and test methods which lead to such approval.

iii. Area 3, Field inspection:

(1) Proper installation methods for all approved materials leading to an ability to ensure that all materials are installed in accordance with proper methods.

(2) Basic inspection report writing including the preparation of violation notices and required inspection record keeping.

4. The texts used in teaching this course shall include, but not be limited to, the National Electrical Code (NEC).

(h) Electrical inspector H.H.S.: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for licensure as an electrical inspector H.H.S.

1. Prerequisites: Completion of an educational program meeting the requirements for electrical inspector I.C.S.

2. Subject requirements: The program shall consist of one major subject as specified below and shall provide at least 45 hours of instruction in this subject. It shall ensure technical competencies in the following as it applies and class 1 and all other structures as established in N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

i. Subject 1, Advanced electrical systems design: The procedures, methods and calculations necessary to check the design, material, and installation practices for the more complex systems which characterize class 1 buildings, with particular attention being paid to the hazardous uses identified in chapter 3 of the building subcode and the hazardous (classified) locations identified in the electrical subcode.

3. The texts used in this course shall include, but not be limited to, the National Electrical Code (NEC).

(i) Fire protection inspector I.C.S.: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for licensure as a fire protection inspector I.C.S.

1. Subject requirements: The program shall consist of two major subjects as specified below and shall provide at least 60 contact hours of instruction in each subject. It shall ensure technical competencies in the following subjects as they apply to class 2 and class 3 as established in N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

2. Subject 1, Plan review and field inspection:

i. Area 1, Uniform Construction Code:

(1) Organization and content of the Uniform Construction Code, N.J.A.C. 5:23; organization and content of the fire protection subcode.

(2) Fundamental knowledge of the fire protection subcode's background purpose, history, place in local government structure and relation to construction code enforcement programs at other levels of government.

(3) Basic classification of structures into class categories.

ii. Area 2, Systems design: Systems design and installation practices required by the Uniform Construction Code and/or its referenced standards for active and passive fire suppression; understanding of fire detection and fire alarm systems sufficient to permit the review of plans to determine the adequacy of the systems.

iii. Area 3, Plan Review:

(1) Basic fire protection requirements; height and area limitations; fire resistance ratings of structural components; arrangement, sizing and protection of means of egress; flame spread and smoke generated requirements; combustibility of materials; and requirements for installation of fire detection; alarm and suppression systems; chimneys, flues and vents; and heating equipment and appliances.

(2) Methods of systematic plans analysis: The information pertaining to structural, architectural, mechanical, fire protection and electrical features of a building that must be shown on the plans to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Uniform Construction Code.

(3) Analysis methods needed to ensure that fire protection elements of buildings depicted on plans do in fact conform to code requirements.

iv. Area 4, Materials: Testing methods, agencies and test verification procedures incorporated in the code for combustibility, flame spread, and smoke generation requirements and fire resistance ratings.

3. Subject 2, Fire protection systems:

i. Area 1, Fire protection:

(1) Systems design and installation practices required by the code and/or its referenced standards for active and passive fire suppression; fire detection and fire alarm systems sufficient to permit the adequacy of systems designed to be checked through plan reviews and field inspections.

ii. Area 2, Electrical installations:

(1) An understanding of the material requirements found in the electrical code, including the ability to recognize approved material and an understanding of the standards and test methods which lead to such approval.

(2) An understanding of the proper installation methods of all approved materials, leading to an ability to ensure that all materials are installed in accordance with proper methods.

iii. Area 3, Fire prevention:

(1) The relationship of fire prevention codes that regulate the use and occupancy of buildings and fire protection codes that regulate their construction; the fire prevention code provisions; enforcement procedures and objectives including the protection of places of assembly; the fire prevention code and its enforcement that will ensure an understanding of the manner in which those fire hazards not regulated by the construction code can be regulated in the interest of public safety and fire protection generally.

iv. Area 4, Field inspection:

(1) The use of basic inspection tools and test methods.

(2) The construction process and the points at which inspections must be made.

(3) Field inspection and controlled inspection techniques necessary to ensure that the materials installed at the construction site are of the same strength and quality as assumed by the design calculations and that they are installed in the manner required to achieve and preserve that strength.

(4) Basic inspection report writing, including the preparation of violation notices and required inspection record keeping.

4. The texts used in teaching this course shall include, but are not limited to, the BOCA National Building Code, the BOCA National Mechanical Code, the CABO One & Two Family Dwelling Code, National Electrical Code (NEC) and the National Standard Plumbing Code.

(j) Fire protection inspector H.H.S.: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for a license as a fire protection inspector H.H.S.

1. Prerequisites: Completion of an educational program meeting the requirements for fire protection inspector I.C.S.

2. Subject requirements: The program shall consist of one major subject as specified below and shall provide at least 60 contact hours of instruction. It shall ensure technical competencies in the following areas as they apply to class 1 and all other structures as established in N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

3. Subject 1, Advanced fire protection requirements and plan review techniques:

i. Area 1, Fire protection requirements: Material requirements established by the code including testing and listing procedures, an understanding of test methods, an ability to read, understand and interpret test reports for both active and passive fire protection requirements of systems of the type required to be incorporated in class 1 buildings.

ii. Area 2, Plan review:

(1) Code requirements related to fire divisions in buildings exceeding the height and area limitations established in the code for certain combinations of use and construction types such as regional shopping malls and high-rise construction.

(2) Code requirements related to unlimited area buildings design analysis methods needed to ensure that fire protection elements of buildings depicted on plans do in fact conform to code requirements.

4. The texts used in teaching this course shall include, but not be limited to, the BOCA National Building Code, the BOCA National Mechanical Code, the National Electrical Code (NEC) and the National Standard Plumbing Code.

(k) Plumbing inspector I.C.S.: The program designed to satisfy the educational requirements for licensure as a plumbing inspector I.C.S. shall consist of a minimum of 120 hours of instruction in the following subject areas. The program shall provide instruction in the following technical administrative areas with the specified texts as they apply to the plan review of class 2 and class 3 structures and the inspection of all structures as established at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

1. Area 1 shall consist of the plumbing subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. General regulations;

ii. Materials;

iii. Joints and connections;

iv. Traps, cleanouts and backwater valves;

v. Interceptors;

vi. Plumbing fixtures, fixture fittings, and plumbing appliances;

vii. Hangers and supports;

viii. Indirect waste piping and special wastes;

ix. Water supply and distribution;

x. Sanitary drainage systems;

xi. Vents and venting;

xii. Storm water drainage;

xiii. Tests and maintenance;

xiv. Mobile home and travel trailer park plumbing standards; and

xv. Abandonment of septic tanks.

2. Area 2 shall consist of the mechanical subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Definitions;

ii. General regulations;

iii. Ventilation;

iv. Exhaust systems;

v. Duct systems;

vi. Combustion air;

vii. Chimneys and vents.

viii. Specific appliances, fireplaces, and solid fuel-burning equipment;

ix. Boilers, water heaters, and pressure vessels;

x. Refrigeration;

xi. Hydronic piping;

xii. Fuel oil piping and storage;

xiii. Solar systems;

xiv. Referenced standards; and

xv. Combustion air openings and chimney connector pass-throughs.

3. Area 3 shall consist of the fuel gas code as adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Definitions;

ii. General regulations;

iii. Gas piping installations;

iv. Chimneys and vents;

v. Specific appliances;

vi. Referenced standards;

vii. Sizing and capacities of gas piping;

viii. Sizing of venting systems serving appliances equipped with draft hoods, Category 1 appliances, and appliances listed for use and type B vents;

ix. Exit terminals of mechanical draft and direct-vent venting systems; and

x. Recommended procedure for safety inspection of an existing appliance installation.

4. Area 4 shall consist of the residential code, mechanical section adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

5. Area 5 shall consist of the energy codes adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Energy Conservation Code;

(1) Chapter 5; and

(2) Chapter 11; and

ii. ASHRAE 90.1.

6. Area 6 shall consist of the Uniform Construction Code, as follows:

i. General provisions;

ii. Administration;

iii. Subcodes;

iv. Rehabilitation Subcode, including:

(1) Fixture counts; and

(2) Scoping; and

v. Barrier Free Subcode, including:

(1) Coordination with other subcodes;

(2) Accessibility and clearances; and

(3) Fixtures and fittings.

7. Area 7 shall consist of the provisions at N.J.A.C. 5:23A, the Construction Board of Appeals.

8. Area 8 shall consist of the following field and lab experience:

i. Review of plans for class 2 or class 3 structures using a model checklist;

ii. Inspection of a structure using a model checklist; and

iii. Use and application of Uniform Construction Code forms and formats.

9. Area 9 shall consist of public health requirements, as follows:

i. Knowledge of New Jersey Health Law and Code, including prior approval requirement regarding septic systems, wells, and retail food establishments.

10. Area 10 shall consist of liquefied petroleum gas installations.

11. The texts to be used in the plumbing inspector I.C.S. program shall include, but not to be limited to, the National Standard Plumbing Code, the International Mechanical Code, the BOCA National Energy Conservation Code, the International Residential Code, the International Fuel Gas Code, the Uniform Construction Code Act (52:27D-119 et seq.), and the Uniform Construction Code rules (N.J.A.C. 5:23).

(l) Plumbing inspector H.H.S.: The program designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for licensure as a plumbing inspector H.H.S. shall consist of a minimum of 60 hours of instruction in the following technical and administrative subject areas with the specified texts as they apply to the plan review of class 1 structures and the inspection of all other structures as established at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3.

1. Completion of an educational program meeting the requirements of plumbing inspector I.C.S. shall be a prerequisite for registration in the educational program for plumbing inspectors H.H.S.

2. Area 1 shall consist of the plumbing subcode adopted at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3, as follows:

i. Installation of medical gas and vacuum piping systems;

ii. Special requirements for health care facilities; and

iii. Oil/sand separators.

3. Area 2 shall consist of the Uniform Construction Code, as follows:

i. Rehabilitation Subcode; and

ii. Barrier Free Subcode.

4. Area 3 shall consist of special hazardous concerns, as follows:

i. LP Gas installations;

ii. Sizing tables;

iii. Materials standards;

iv. Gas station floor drains; and

v. Chemical waste.

5. Area 4 shall consist of Code Administration, as follows:

i. Non-conforming materials;

ii. Prior approvals;

iii. Coordination with other subcode areas;

iv. Coordination with municipal utility authorities; and

v. Coordination with utility companies.

6. Area 5 shall consist of the following field and laboratory experience:

i. Review of plans for a Class 1 building using a model checklist;

ii. Inspection of a structure using a model checklist; and

iii. Use and application of Uniform Construction Code forms and formats.

7. The texts to be used in teaching this course shall include, but not be limited to, the National Standard Plumbing Code, the International Mechanical Code, the BOCA National Energy Conservation Code and the International Fuel Gas Code.

(m) Subcode official program: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for a license as a subcode official.

1. Prerequisites: Possession of a license as an inspector of the same type and specialty as the subcode official being applied for.

2. Subject requirements: The program shall provide at least 45 contact hours of instruction. It shall ensure competence in subcode administration and enforcement and include instruction in the following subject:

i. Subject, Subcode administration:

(1) Area 1, Administration: Subcode administration's background, purpose, place in local government structure and relation to construction code administration programs at other levels of government. Office procedures for inspectors, including forms and records used and purpose of each Method of establishing and maintaining proper review and approval of permit applications for compliance with the construction code and applicable laws and ordinances under the jurisdiction of related public agencies, including application contents, use of procedure and information sheets for applications, use of check lists for compliance with applicable ordinances, and processing of applications.

(2) Area 2, Legal aspects of Code enforcement: Purpose and fundamentals of stop orders, notices of penalty, and court action; powers and procedures available to deal with hazardous conditions and emergency situations including emergency work orders and bids and quotations process. Procedures for processing cases involving condemnations and other violations of the subcode from initiation through final compliance. Preparation of case records. Situations requiring a warrant and process of obtaining and issuing the warrant. The administrative hearing process under the State Construction Code Act. Legal aspects of the operations of the enforcing agencies, including legal processes and rules of evidence. Legal responsibilities of inspection personnel. Method of appealing hearing decisions to court and legal basis of doing so.

(3) Area 3, Related legislation: Legal rights of landlords and tenants under Federal, State and local laws. Relocation laws and their relationship to code enforcement. Relationship of housing maintenance provisions, State and local.

(n) Elevator Inspector H.H.S.: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for licensure as elevator inspector H.H.S. Each such program shall consist of three major subjects and shall provide at least 90 contact hours with a minimum of at least 30 contact hours of instructions in each subject as specified below and shall ensure technical competence in the following subject areas as they apply to all structures:

1. Subject 1: Inspection and testing rules and regulations for elevators, escalators, lifts and other miscellaneous hoisting and elevating equipment; hoistways and related constructions:

i. Minimum requirements, acceptance tests; periodic and routine tests and inspections; alterations, repairs, replacements and maintenance; certificate of compliance;

ii. Construction of hoistways, enclosures and machine room; vents and opening protective requirements; pits; clearances and runbys for cars and counterweights; hoistway doors, hardware and operations; chair platforms; special requirements for escalators and other elevating equipment.

2. Subject 2: Machinery and equipment for elevators, escalators and lifts:

i. Guide rails; buffers and bumpers; counterweights; car frame and platforms; safeties and speed governors; suspension ropes; capacities; driving machines; valves, pipings and tanks for hydraulic elevators; terminal stopping devices; operating devices and control equipment; emergency operation and signalling devices; power wiring and controls.

3. Subject 3: Plan review and inspection techniques:

i. Performance standards for machinery, equipment and systems, materials standards; engineering and type tests; design data; special requirements for escalators, chairlifts and other elevating equipment; barrier-free subcode requirements for elevators and lifts; plan review techniques for electrical and mechanical systems; inspection techniques and checklists for inspection--inside the car, outside hoistway, top of car, machine room and pit and testing of various systems.

(o) Construction official: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for a construction official license.

1. Prerequisites:

i. Possession of a license as an inspector of the same type and specialty as the construction official license for which application is being made.

ii. Completion of the educational program required for subcode official.

2. Subject requirements: The program shall provide at least 45 contact hours of instruction. It shall ensure competence in construction code administration and enforcement and shall include instruction in the following subject.

i. Subject, Construction code administration:

(1) Area I, Administration: Construction code administration's background, purpose, place in local government structure and relation to construction code administration programs at other levels of government. Personnel management including required personnel, records, budgeting. Basic principles of supervision and management. Local enforcement agency administration including records, reports, equipment, personnel procedures and regulations of the Federal, State and local government. Preparation of agency's budget, record keeping requirements under the State Uniform Construction Code including permit and certificate of occupancy records, variation application records and violation files and records. Major forms of manual and electronic methods of data processing. Method of establishing and maintaining proper review and approval procedures for permit applications to ensure compliance with the construction code and applicable laws and ordinances.

(2) Area 2, Legal methods of code enforcement: Purpose and fundamentals of stop orders, notices of penalties and court action. Powers and procedures available to deal with hazardous conditions and emergency situations including emergency work orders and bids and quotations process. Procedures for processing cases involving condemnations and other violations of the subcode from initiation through final compliance. Preparation of case records. Situations requiring a search warrant and the process of obtaining and issuing the warrant. The administrative hearing process under the State Construction Code Act. Legal aspects of the operations of the building and housing inspection agencies, including legal processes and rules of evidence. Legal responsibilities of inspection personnel. Appeals and process before boards of appeal.

(3) Area 3, Related legislation: Legal rights of landlords and tenants under Federal, State and local laws. Relocation laws and their relationship to code enforcement. Relationship of housing maintenance provisions State and local.

(4) Area 4, Subcodes: Housing code provisions including occupancy loads, minimum utilities and facilities. Building subcode provisions including structural requirements, durability and weatherability requirements, and light, air and ventilation requirements. Electrical subcode provisions including minimum service and appliances and basic circuits. Fire prevention code provisions including special permits required, storage and handling of goods and materials, maintenance of exit facilities and maintenance of fire protection equipment. Fire Protection subcode provisions including height and area requirements, fire resistance, flame spread and combustibility requirements; and fire alarm, detection and suppression systems. Plumbing subcode provisions including sanitary waste disposal, water supply, venting and required facilities.

(p) Technical assistant to the construction official: The following standards apply to programs designed to satisfy the educational program requirements for a technical assistant to the construction official certification:

1. Subject requirements: The program shall provide at least 45 contact hours of instruction. It shall ensure competence in construction code administration and proper procedures to be used in an enforcing agency.

i. Area 1, Administration: Uniform Construction Code administration's background, purpose, place in local government structure, and relation to other code enforcement administration programs at other levels and divisions of government.

ii. Area 2, Office Procedure and Record Keeping: Records management requirements pursuant to the Uniform Construction Code, including permit and certificate of occupancy records; variation application records, and violation files and records; major forms of manual and electronic methods of data processing and management; inspection scheduling and other personnel management fundamentals; and fee calculation and assessment.

iii. Area 3, Standard forms required pursuant to the Uniform Construction Code: Comprehensive review and familiarization of the standard forms used in the administration of the State Uniform Construction Code and practical application of the construction code enforcement process using the "Municipal Procedures Manual" issued by the Department.

2. The texts to be used in the technical assistant to the construction official program shall include, but not be limited to, the Uniform Construction Code Act (N.J.S.A. 52:27D-119 et seq.), the Uniform Construction Code rules (N.J.A.C. 5:23), and the "Municipal Procedures Manual" issued by the Department.

N.J. Admin. Code § 5:23-5.20

Amended by R.1985 d.612, effective 1/6/1986.
See: 17 N.J.R. 1821(a), 18 N.J.R. 80(a).
Was 5:23-5.6.
Amended by R.1987 d.509, effective 12/7/1987.
See: 19 N.J.R. 1264(a), 19 N.J.R. 2270(a).
This section was "Facility fire protection supervisor requirements" which was repealed and 5.21 was recodified.
Administrative Correction to (a), (b)2 and (b)5.
See: 22 N.J.R. 2503(b).
Amended by R.1991 d.308, effective 6/17/1991.
See: 23 N.J.R. 1085(a), 23 N.J.R. 1923(a).
Midterm and final exams required at (b); RCS program increased to 60 contact hours; BOCA Building, Mechanical, Plumbing, Energy Conservation, Barrier-Free and CABO codes required in all courses, fire protection inspector subject requirements specified in greater detail.
Amended by R.1991 d.325, effective 7/1/1991.
See: 23 N.J.R. 805(a), 23 N.J.R. 2046(a).
Added elevator inspector standards at (d)11.
Amended by R.1997 d.409, effective 10/6/1997.
See: 29 N.J.R. 2736(a), 29 N.J.R. 4281(a).
Subdivided (b)2 and substantially amended (b)2i.
Amended by R.2002 d.240, effective 8/5/2002.
See: 33 N.J.R. 4178(a), 34 N.J.R. 2784(a).
Rewrote the section.
Amended by R.2009 d.48, effective 2/2/2009.
See: 40 N.J.R. 5319(a), 41 N.J.R. 733(b).
In (h)2i, substituted "chapter 3" for "article 4".
Amended by R.2013 d.081, effective 6/3/2013.
See: 44 N.J.R. 1303(a), 45 N.J.R. 1393(a).
Substituted "1" for "I", "2" for "II", and "3" for "III" throughout; in the introductory paragraph of (e), substituted "all structures" for "class I and II buildings"; and in (g)1ii, substituted "at N.J.A.C. 5:23-3" for "in subchapter 3 of these regulations".

Amended by 55 N.J.R. 826(b), effective 5/1/2023