The OBOA was established in 1956 and for over 50 years has played a leading role in the education, training and professional development of Ontario’s municipal building officials. On behalf of municipalities our 2000 members administer provincial laws and municipal by-laws relating to the construction of all types of buildings and structures. The Ontario Building Code Act states that the Code exists "to establish standards for public health and safety, fire protection, structural sufficiency [i.e., safety], conservation, including, without limitation, energy and water conservation, and environmental integrity, [i.e., sustainability] and to establish barrier-free requirements, [i.e., accessibility] with respect to buildings." Along with training delivery, the OBOA has maintained a partnership with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing which has allowed us to be in a position to advise and provide comment to the Ministry on pending legislation and the resulting potential impacts on our members and municipalities. As well, we work with other Ministries such as Environment, and Community and Social Services by participating in working groups relating to such issues as protection of our drinking water resources and ensuring the safe remediation of buildings. The Ontario Building Officials Association (OBOA) and the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing (MMAH) share a unique relationship in the education, training and professional development of Ontario’s building officials and public members of the Building Industry. The Association has assisted MMAH with the facilitation of over 30,000 students since the year 2000. This is reflective of the building industry, the public, as well as OBOA Members.
