From offices and hospitals to schools and airports, building owners are increasingly relying on electrified locks, sensors, and automated door systems to improve both convenience and security. As buildings become more connected and security expectations evolve, smart and electrified door hardware is rapidly transforming how facilities manage access, safety, and efficiency. Behind these innovations, industry standards developed by organizations like BHMA play a vital role in ensuring system integration, safety, and performance. 

Following the second round of committee hearings in ICC’s code development process, BHMA is pleased to share that all 15 of its proposals are now set to be approved for inclusion in the 2027 International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC). These proposals are not subject to further debate and will receive final action during the April 2026 Public Comment Hearings via the Consent Agenda. 

Following the second round of committee hearings in ICC’s code development process, BHMA is pleased to share that all 15 of its proposals are now set to be approved for inclusion in the 2027 International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC). These proposals are not subject to further debate and will receive final action during the April 2026 Public Comment Hearings via the Consent Agenda. 

BHMA plays a critical role in shaping the building codes that affect commercial doors and hardware—especially for locksmiths, code officials, and security professionals. Behind the scenes, the association works to ensure that codes governing locking mechanisms, exit devices, and door operations reflect current safety standards and industry realities. As the only organization accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop and maintain builders hardware performance standards, BHMA brings deep technical insight to every phase of the code-making journey.

The International Code Council (ICC) publishes model building codes that are widely adopted by states, counties, and cities as the minimum requirements for construction of commercial and residential buildings. The next editions of the International Building Code (IBC) and 2024 International Fire Code (IFC) are under development. BHMA is actively engaged in ICC’s code development process through developing and advocating for revisions and improvements of the provisions of the IBC and IFC.