Even though they are extremely important for ensuring that the buildings people occupy are safe, the individuals responsible for maintaining code and building standards receive little to no respect. Few people consider the importance of the job they perform, and when they do, it is often because they are in a position where they complain about adhering to the standards these professionals enforce. Fortunately, someone has invented a holiday to address the oversight of these professionals not receiving the recognition they deserve.

This holiday is observed every September 1st, and it is known as Building and Code Staff Appreciation Day. This is a day when these professionals finally get the respect they deserve.

The History of Building and Code Staff Appreciation Day

Building codes have been around for a long time. To prove this point, let’s look at one of the first-known building codes ever developed. It was written on a wooden slab or a stone called a stele and was erected in the city center of Babylon.

These codes covered a wide range of construction practices, including the materials used in construction, the legal size and height of structures, and the required space between buildings.

These codes also established penalties for builders who disregarded the regulations. The penalties for not abiding by building codes in ancient Babylon were severe. These codes were enforced by steep fines, and in some instances, punishment by death.

Unfortunately, while we can trace building codes and the code staff that have enforced them throughout history, we cannot trace the origins of this holiday. We do not know who invented this holiday or when it was invented.

We are sure it was probably started by someone who either worked as building code staff or managed a department dedicated to enforcing building codes. We will continue to try to research the origins of this holiday, and if we find out anything new, we will update this section.

Observing Building and Code Staff Appreciation Day

This holiday can be observed simply by thanking building and code staff for what they do. This can be a “thank you” in person, or it can be an appreciative note or a gift. People can also take the time on this holiday to learn more about building safety and the infractions that can violate current building codes.

And if a person works as building and code staff, then this might just be the day to have a department lunch. No matter how a person celebrates this holiday, however, they should take the time to spread the word about it online using the hashtag #BuildingAndCodeStaffAppreciationDay.