Sources: American Concrete Institute, Farmington Hills, Mich.; CP staff
An expanded ACI scope reflecting a proactive approach to global standards advocacy is embodied in a revised mission statement: “ACI develops, disseminates, and advances the adoption of consensus-based knowledge on concrete and its uses.”
An indispensible resource for individuals and organizations involved in concrete design and construction the world over, ACI has long focused on knowledge development and dissemination. Through the expanded mission, it will now dedicate additional resources and effort to advance adoption of its consensus-based knowledge—ultimately helping practitioners manage increasing requirements for concrete design and construction.
The new mission reflects what ACI Executive Vice President Ronald Burg, P.E. calls a transformational change. “While our member experts will continue to use our consensus-based process to develop standards based on new research, global best practices, and innovative technologies, we are building a new infrastructure that will increase global adoption of this state-of-the art information,” he affirms.
Recent efforts include partnering with the Saudi Arabia-based Gulf Cooperation Council Standardization Organization to develop a Gulf Building Code based on ACI 318, Building Code Requirements for Structural Concrete. Similarly, the Institute has been working with stakeholders to translate ACI 318 and other documents for use in Vietnam. It continues to work with the International Code Council to ensure that concrete design and repair provisions are adequately referenced in the International Building Code and International Existing Building Code. Domestically, staff and members continue to work with state and local jurisdictions to reference the Institute’s standards.