The Nation’s buildings have never been safer. Fire deaths have declined significantly and new buildings incorporate lessons learned from previous hazard events to better protect their occupants. These improvements are largely the result of strong building codes and a regulatory system focused at the state and local level. And the majority of these codes and standards for constructing safe, efficient buildings are developed by private-sector organizations. Read this letter from Institute President Henry L. Green, Hon. AIA, to understand the private sector’s role in U.S. standards development.