Codes Committee

Membership on the Codes Committee is determined by the DES Deputy Director for Architecture and Engineering. The Committee consists of AE Branch registered architects and engineers with expertise in architecture, life safety, civil, structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering. All members have training and experience implementing and interpreting applicable codes. The roles of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson rotate each year. Current membership is as follows:

• Nick Lu, SE (Chairperson)
• Hung Nguyen, PE (Vice Chairperson)
• James Aberle, AIA
• Alex Gamble, AIA, LEED AP® BD+C
• CDR Tom Armitage, PE

When faced with interpretation questions relating to IHS facilities and projects, IHS Staff and Tribal representatives may request a formal interpretation by the AHJ. Requests should be routed through the Area Facilities Manager and/or Safety Officer to the DES Director (AHJ). The standard protocol for responding to interpretation requests is for the Committee Chair to confirm receipt of the request within 14 days. The confirmation will provide an estimated timeframe for issuance of the interpretation and may ask for additional information necessary to complete the interpretation. Interpretations should be rendered within 28 days after receipt of all necessary information, and can be expedited when timing is critical.

More detailed information regarding Committee organization may be found in OEHE Technical Handbook Chapter 4-3 Codes Committee Organization. [PDF - 218 KB].

The following interpretations have been previously issued by the AHJ: