Report of the MCAA Technical Committee
Words: Jerry PainterAs Chairman of the MCAA Technical Committee, I would like to submit the following report to the Board. Since our 2008 Annual Meeting in Las Vegas, NV, we have been working hard on many issues that protect mason contractors throughout the nation.
Masonry Standards Joint Committee (MSJC) ACI 530
The Masonry Standards Joint Committee (MSJC) has been diligently working on the 2011 edition of the Masonry Code (ACI 530). Throughout 2008 and 2009, the International Building Code (IBC) is holding hearings that will result in the adoption of portions or all of the ACI 530 Code.
MSJC Chair, Diane Throop, P.E. has been working with the masonry industry to improve the Code for contractors and designers alike. We were able to spread the word to other contractors and contractor organizations to join this cycle of MSJC and we have some good representation by our contractors, association executives and our technical consultant on every subcommittee and the main committee to further protect our interests. While this cycle has not encountered many divisive issues, if any were to arise, MCAA is in the best position we have ever been in to help protect contractor interests.
The last MSJC meeting was held May 15-17, 2008 in Cancun, MX. The next MSJC meeting will be held October 19-21, 2008 in Salt Lake City, UT. Please visit www.masonrystandards.org or contact MCAA's technical consultant Rashod R. Johnson, P.E. at Rashod@theroderickgroup.com for additional information.
Masonry Alliance for Codes and Standards (MACS)
The Masonry Alliance for Codes and Standards met in August 20-21, 2008 in Chicago, IL. While MCAA is not an official member, we were represented by Rashod Johnson, P.E. Our Executive Director, Jeff Buczkiewicz also attended the last day to get additional information about the possibility of MCAA rejoining the MACS Committee. At this time, we are participating and observing the MACS committee until we make the decision to rejoin.
American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM)
The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) held its semi-annual spring meetings at the Sheraton Denver in Denver, CO on Jun 4-7th, 2008. Committees C12 on Masonry Mortars and C15 on Manufactured Masonry Units held task group, subcommittee and main committee meetings over these three days and debated a variety of topics.
Rashod continues to serve in various capacities as the Recording Secretary of C12 Main Committee and task group chair of C12.05.03 - Placement and Production of Masonry Grouts, C15.03.07 - Finish and Appearance and C15.05.07 - Masonry Workmanship. He also serves on many other subcommittees and task groups to protect contractors interests. His in depth involvement in these Committees allows MCAA to stay informed and ahead of the curve as it pertains to ASTM Standards development.
John Melander of PCA serves as Committee C12 Chairman, while Jim Tann of the Brick Institute - Mid east Region serves as Committee C15 Chairman.
Should you have any questions, feel free to contact our technical consultant, Rashod R. Johnson at Rashod@theroderickgroup.com.