building code of australia 2014 – key changes · building code of australia 2014 – key changes...

Building Code of Australia 2014 – Key Changes

Format of the Code Overview of the Building Code of Australia 2014 Changes to the Referenced Documents Key Amendments to the Building Code of Australia for 2014 Presenter Robert Marinelli Acknowledgements ABCB, Department of Planning, Steve Jobs Bill Gates WWW

Philip Chun do not imply any material used for example in this presentation as meeting the requirements of the BCA or Australian Standards.

Format of the Code

The format of the BCA component of the NCC remains unchanged with BCA 2014 – the two Volumes will continue to comprise three books, as follows: • Volume One – deals with Class 2 to 9 buildings (i.e. multi-unit residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings). • Volume One – Appendices – contains the State and Territory variations and additions. • Volume Two – deals with Class 1 and Class 10 buildings (i.e. Housing provisions). State and Territory variations and additions to the Volume Two provisions are contained within the document.

Overview of the Building Code of Australia 2014

The majority of the amendments to BCA 2014 relate to: • Quantifying the slip resistance of ramps stairways and landings; • New provisions which provide for the use of photoluminescent exit signs; • New provisions requiring smoke alarms in class 1, 2, and 3 buildings and Class 4 parts of a building to be interconnected; • An exemption from the requirement for fire hose reels to be provided in certain Class 2 and 3 buildings and Class 4 parts of a building, in lieu of additional portable fire extinguishers; • The transfer of the energy efficiency provisions for heated water systems from the BCA to the PCA; and • The deletion of Section I relating to maintenance. • Changes to Section J.

BCA 2014 also includes other amendments relating to minor technical changes and the update of referenced documents.

Changes to the Referenced Documents

•  New editions and new references adopted •  Amendments adopted •  Deletions

New editions and new references adopted - Vol 1 and 2

In Volumes One and Two: - AS 1657 – ‘Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders – Design, construction and installation’. The 2013 edition is referenced. - AS 4586 – ‘Slip resistance classification of new pedestrian surface materials’. The 2013 edition is referenced. Note: Test reports based on the 2004 edition of AS/NZS 4586 and issued prior to 1 May 2014 remain valid. The schedule of referenced documents for both volumes outlines the equivalent rating classifications used in the 2004 edition of the standard, when compared to the 2013 edition.

New editions and new references adopted - Vol 1

In Volume One only: - AS 1668.4 – ‘The use of ventilation and air conditioning in buildings’ – Part 4 ‘Natural ventilation in buildings’. The 2012 edition is referenced. - AS/NZS 3823.1.2 – ‘Performance of electrical appliances – Airconditioners and heat pumps’ – Part 1.2 – ‘Ducted airconditioners and air- to-air heat pumps – Testing and rating for performance’. The 2012 edition is referenced. - ASTM E2073-10 – ‘Standard Test Method for Photopic Luminance of Photoluminescent (Phosphorescent) Markings’. The 2010 edition is referenced.

New editions and new references adopted - Vol 2

In Volume Two only: - AS 1859.4 – ‘Reconstituted wood-based panels – Specifications’ – Part 4 ‘Wet- processed fibreboard’. The 2004 edition is referenced. - AS/NZS 2269.0 – ‘Plywood – Structural’ – Part 0 ‘Specifications’. The 2012 edition is referenced.

Amendments adopted

In Volumes One and Two: - AS/NZS 1170.2 ‘Structural design actions’ – Part 2 ‘Wind actions’. Amendment 3 to the 2011 edition is referenced. - AS 3600 – ‘Concrete structures’. Amendment 2 to the 2009 edition is referenced.

Deletions - From Volumes One and Two

From Volumes One and Two: - AS 1668.2 - ‘The use of mechanical ventilation and air-conditioning in buildings’ – Part 2 ‘Mechanical ventilation for acceptable indoor air quality’. Reference to the 1991 edition is deleted following the completion of the 12 month transition period. - AS 3500.4 – ‘Plumbing and Drainage’ – Part 4 – ‘Heated water services’. Reference to the 2003 edition has been deleted as a consequence of consolidating the heated water requirements into NCC Volume Three – The PCA.

Deletions - From Volume One

From Volume One only: - AS 2118 – ‘Automatic fire sprinkler systems’. References to the 1995 editions of the following parts are deleted following the completion of the 12 month transition period. ♣ Part 4 – ‘Residential’ ♣ Part 6 – ‘Combined sprinkler and hydrant’

Deletions - From Volume Two

From Volume Two only: - AS 1397 – ‘Steel sheet and strip – Hot-dipped zinc coated or aluminium/zinc coated’. Reference to the 2001 edition is deleted due to the completion of the 24 month transition period. -  AS 4055 – ‘Wind loads for housing’. Reference to the 2006 edition is deleted due to the completion of the 12 month transition period.

Amendments to the Building Code of Australia for 2014

Key Amendments to Volumes 1 and 2 of BCA 2014 Key Amendments to Volume 1 of BCA 2014 Key Amendments to Volume 2 of BCA 2014 Key Amendments to the Guide to Volume 1 of the BCA 2014 NSW variations – Amendments for BCA 2014

Key amendments to Volumes 1 and 2 of BCA 2014

•  Slip resistance •  Interconnection of smoke alarms •  Heated water provisions •  Laundry facilities •  Protection of openable windows •  Minor technical changes

Slip resistance (D2.10, D2.13, D2.14 and 3.9.1.3)

- Where the BCA previously required the surfaces of landings and ramps in Class 2 - 9 buildings and the stairway treads in all buildings to be “non-slip” or have a “non-skid nosing strip”, these surfaces are now required to meet a specified minimum slip resistance classification when tested in accordance with AS 4856.

Application to : - • D2.10 - for pedestrian ramps; • D2.13 - for stairway treads; and • D2.14 - for landings.

Slip-resistance classifications found in a new Table D2.14, which are to be determined by testing in accordance with the newly referenced Australian Standard – AS 4586.

As was the case before, treatments for slip-resistance on stairway treads can be provided to either –• the whole tread;• OR – the nosing only.

In both cases, the new provisions require a slip-resistance classification not less than that in the new Table D2.14.[CLICK SLIDE]

32

- In assessing the slip resistance classification, it is necessary to determine the likely conditions the tread will be subject to over the life of the building. This can be either wet, dry or both.

♣ A dry surface is one that is not normally wet or likely to be made wet other than by an accidental spill.

♣ A wet surface is one that is normally wet or likely to be made wet, including areas exposed to the weather.

- There are two test methods within AS 4586 that can be used to determine the slip resistance classification, being the wet pendulum test and the oil-wet ramp test. - There are various compliance options available including: the inherent slip resistance of the surface material, surface treatments or coatings and nosing strips.

To demonstrate compliance with these requirements, practitioners can either –• Use tested materials – which, as noted before, can be based on the old edition of AS

4586 if issued before May 1, 2014.• OR – practitioners can demonstrate compliance using in-situ testing.

Typical examples of potential products or systems that may be used – subject to compliance with AS 4586 – are included on the slide.

To provide manufacturers and suppliers with time to undertake testing of slip-resistance products, the ABCB has undertaken a significant awareness campaign to advise of these changes. For those who attended last years seminar, you will remember this being discussed.

34

Interconnection of smoke alarms (Specification E2.2a)

The provisions relating to smoke alarms have been amended. Smoke alarms in Class 1 buildings, and in the sole occupancy units of Class 2 and 3 buildings and Class 4 parts of a building, must now be interconnected where there is more than one alarm installed. In SOUs of Class 2 or 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of buildings, there is an option to install other alarms in accordance with AS 1670.1 for kitchens and bathrooms. These alarms must also be interconnected with all traditional smoke alarms. To effect this change, Specification E2.2 now refers generally to alarms rather than “smoke alarms”.

The next change for BCA 2014 I’ll discuss, are new provisions in both Volumes One and Two, which require alarms in –• Class 1 buildings; and• SOUs of Class 2 or 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of buildings,to be interconnected so that when one alarm is activated, it will activate all other alarms installed within that building or SOU. This feature will increase the likelihood of occupants being aware of the presence of a fire.

In SOUs of Class 2 or 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of buildings, there is an option to install other alarms in accordance with AS 1670.1 for kitchens and bathrooms. These alarms must also be interconnected with all traditional smoke alarms. To effect this change, Specification E2.2 now refers generally to alarms rather than “smoke alarms”.

15

For alarms in the SOU’s of a Class 2 or 3 building, or Class 4 part of a building –• All smoke alarms; • AND – any other alarm in accordance with AS 1670.1 – such as a heat detector,must be interconnected [CLICK SLIDE] so that if one alarm activates, all other alarms activate as well.

18

Interconnection of smoke alarms (3.7.2.2)

For smoke alarms in Class 1 buildings need to be interconnected where there is more than one alarm installed as per below.

To illustrate how this provision will work, consider a Class 1 building with multiple storeys. Each smoke alarm within the building is required to be interconnected [CLICKSLIDE] so that all alarms activate upon the activation of one of those alarms.

16

The next change for BCA 2014 I’ll discuss, are new provisions in both Volumes One and Two, which require alarms in –• Class 1 buildings; and• SOUs of Class 2 or 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of buildings,to be interconnected so that when one alarm is activated, it will activate all other alarms installed within that building or SOU. This feature will increase the likelihood of occupants being aware of the presence of a fire.

In SOUs of Class 2 or 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of buildings, there is an option to install other alarms in accordance with AS 1670.1 for kitchens and bathrooms. These alarms must also be interconnected with all traditional smoke alarms. To effect this change, Specification E2.2 now refers generally to alarms rather than “smoke alarms”.

15

Heated water provisions (various clauses)

As part of the consolidation of the heated water provisions, the technical requirements for heated water systems have been transferred to NCC Volume Three - the PCA. A cross reference to Volume Three has been included in both Volumes One and Two.

Laundry facilities (FP2.2 and P2.4.3)

The Performance Requirements for laundry facilities have been expanded to recognise the need for a building to be provided with facilities for the sanitary disposal of waste water, where the water has been used for things such as clothes washing, mopping floors and other domestic cleaning processes.

The next change I’ll discuss follows concerns about the deletion of laundry washtubs from residential buildings as part of Alternative Solutions – and the impacts their deletion has had on the disposal of soiled waste water resulting from domestic cleaning processes.

To recognise the various roles of laundry washtubs in residential buildings, a number of Functional Statements and Performance Requirements in –• Part F2 – of Volume One; and• Part 2.4 – of Volume Two,in BCA 2014 have been amended.

43

Laundry facilities (FP2.2 and P2.4.3)

The changes for both Volumes are very similar and will have no impact when a laundry wash tub is installed in accordance with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions. However, if an Alternative Solution is proposing to delete laundry washtubs, consideration must now be given to “means to sanitary dispose of waste water”.

The changes for both Volumes are very similar and will have no impact when a laundry wash tub is installed in accordance with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions.

However, if an Alternative Solution is proposing to delete laundry washtubs, consideration must now be given to “means to sanitary dispose of waste water”.

44

Protection of openable windows (D2.24 and 3.9.2.5)

- The provisions have been amended to clarify that a window restricting device provided to protect a window in an early childhood centre or a window in a bedroom of a Class 1, 2 and 3 building or a Class 4 part of a building, need only be capable of restricting the window opening.

The second change relating to openable windows occurs at –• D2.24(b)(i)(A) – in Volume One;• AND – 3.9.2.5(b)(i)(A) – in Volume Two,and seeks to clarify that a device to protect an openable portion of a window must be capable of restricting the opening.

The final change for openable windows, relates to clarification of the term – child resistant release mechanism.

These changes are for guidance only, so have been included in the –• Guide to Volume One;• AND – the Explanatory Information of Volume Two.

And – Explain that child resistance can be achieved through the use of –• A tool;• A key• OR – The use of two hands.

This changes also includes further guidance on some of the hardware options available that could be used as the child resistant release mechanism.

42


- It has also been clarified that the height used to determine whether other openable windows need to be protected is measured from the floor of the room and not the sill of the window.

The next few changes relate to provisions for openable windows.

The first of these changes, provides clarification of the provisions at –• D2.24(c)(ii) – in Volume One;• AND - 3.9.2.5(c)(ii) – in Volume Two.

These change are intended to clarify that the 865 mm barrier requirements for an openable window is only applied when the floor below the openable window is 4 metres or more above the surface beneath.

41


- The Guide to Volume One and the explanatory information in Volume Two, has been expanded to include information on the term “child resistant” and how child resistance could be achieved.






42






42

Minor technical changes (various clauses)

- Minor improvements have been made to various provisions in each Volume to provide greater clarity, including those dealing with energy efficiency, as a result of feedback from BCA users.

Key amendments to Volumes 1 of BCA 2014

•  Fire resistance concessions for Class 3 buildings •  Fire Resistance Level of building elements •  Exemption for fire hose reels •  Photoluminescent exit signs •  Provision of floor wastes •  Ventilation of car parks •  Section J Changes •  Section I – Equipment and safety installations

Fire resistance concessions for Class 3 buildings (Specification C1.1) Fire resistance concessions for Class 3 buildings (Specification C1.1) - Specification C1.1 has been amended to extend the fire-resistance concession in Type A and B construction that is currently applied to certain Class 2 buildings, to include certain Class 3 buildings.

The first change to BCA 2014 that I’ll discuss, is the amendment to expand the current concession in Clauses 3.10 and 4.3 of Specification C1.1 – which permits timber framed construction for Class 2 buildings. Specifically, this concession has been expanded so that it also applies to Class 3 buildings (subject to limitations and other requirements).

The introduction of this concession follows extensive research into the fire loads associated with timber framed buildings, which confirmed overseas findings that the fire loads generated by timber framed buildings would not impede the safe and timely evacuation of occupants. Therefore, this amendment will not have any impact on risks to life.

7

For those not familiar with this concession, it allows low-rise Class 2 buildings – and now Class 3 buildings – which are required to be of Type A or Type B construction to be constructed with timber framing instead of concrete or masonry.

Whether this concession can be applied is dependent on a number of factors, which vary for the Type of Construction. These factors can include-• The rise in storeys of the building;• The fire resistance of certain elements, such as walls and floors; • Insulation non-combustibility in walls required to have an FRL;• AND – whether certain fire safety systems are installed, such as an automatic smoke

alarm system – or a sprinkler system.

8

Fire Resistance Level of building elements (Specification C1.1) Fire Resistance Level of building elements (Specification C1.1) - Table 4 (Type B construction) has been amended to clarify that a load-bearing external column not incorporated in an external wall, does not need a Fire Resistance Level (FRL) when located more than 18 metres from a fire source feature.

Those who attended last years Seminars may recall that a change was made in Tables 3 and 4 of Specification C1.1 – to remove an anomaly in the required FRL’s of –• loadbearing external columns incorporated in an external wall – shown as Column B;• AND – a loadbearing external column not incorporated in an external wall – Column A,when they are located more than 3 metres from a fire source feature.

These changes resolved issues for Type A Construction in Table 3; however the amendment for Type B Construction in Table 4 failed to introduce a requirement for–• Column A - a loadbearing external column not incorporated in an external wall when they are 18

metres or more from a fire source feature. This meant that these columns were required to have a 90/-/- FRL, while;

• Column B – a loadbearing external column incorporated in an external wall were permitted to have no FRL when they were 18 metres or more from a fire source feature.

The change to Table 4 brings consistency to FRL’s required for these two types of loadbearing columns.

40

Those who attended last years Seminars may recall that a change was made in Tables 3 and 4 of Specification C1.1 – to remove an anomaly in the required FRL’s of –• loadbearing external columns incorporated in an external wall – shown as Column B;• AND – a loadbearing external column not incorporated in an external wall – Column A,when they are located more than 3 metres from a fire source feature.

These changes resolved issues for Type A Construction in Table 3; however the amendment for Type B Construction in Table 4 failed to introduce a requirement for–• Column A - a loadbearing external column not incorporated in an external wall when they are 18

metres or more from a fire source feature. This meant that these columns were required to have a 90/-/- FRL, while;

• Column B – a loadbearing external column incorporated in an external wall were permitted to have no FRL when they were 18 metres or more from a fire source feature.

The change to Table 4 brings consistency to FRL’s required for these two types of loadbearing columns.

40

Exemption for fire hose reels (E1.4, E1.6 and G4.8)

Exemption for fire hose reels (E1.4) - The provisions for fire hose reels have been amended to remove the requirement to install fire hose reels in a Class 2 or 3 building or a Class 4 part of a building.

Other significant changes for BCA 2014, relate to the inclusion of an exemption for the installation of fire hose reels in certain Class 2 or 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of a building.As a result of this new exemption –• E1.4 has been amended;• New requirements have been included at E1.6 for portable fire extinguishers in Class 2 or 3

buildings or Class 4 parts of a building; • AND – G4.8 has been amended to relocate previous concessions for the installation of fire hose

reels in Class 2 or 3 buildings and Class 4 parts of a buildings – as fire hose reels are still required to be installed in these classes of building when located in an alpine area.

I’ll now discuss some of these amendments in more detail.

9

Firstly, a new sub-clause has been included at E1.4(a) to exempt a Class 2 or 3 building or Class 4 part of a building from installing fire hose reels.

This exemption has been included following recognition of the risks faced by occupants when using a fire hose reel for fight a fire in a Class 2 or 3 building or Class 4 part of a building. These risks are created because–• Fire hose reels assume a significant Class A fire risk – which is not reflective of the increased

likelihood of electrical fires and cooking oil fires being the ignition source in these types of buildings;

• AND - fire hose reels also compromise the bounding construction of a SOU by requiring the entrance doorway of the SOU to be open when fighting a fire within the SOU.

To ensure that an at least equivalent level of fire safety is provided, new requirements for portable fire extinguishers have been included at E1.6. These provisions have been inserted after a risk assessment conducted by ARUP found that portable fire extinguishers provide an equivalent or higher level of fire safety than fire hose reels in these classes of buildings. This risk assessment can be found on the ABCB website.

10


Exemption for fire hose reels (E1.6) - As a consequence of the changes to the fire hose reel provisions, the provisions for portable fire extinguishers have also been enhanced to provide specific installation requirements for portable fire extinguishers in Class 2 and 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of a building.

The new requirements at E1.6 require portable fire extinguishers to be provided –• To serve the whole Class 2 or 3 building or Class 4 part of a building, where one or

more internal fire hydrants are installed; OR• Where internal fire hydrants are NOT installed, to serve any fire compartment or SOU

with a floor area greater than 500 m2.

The triggers for the installation of portable fire extinguishers are consistent with what was previously required for fire hose reels in these Classes of buildings. This means that where fire hose reels were previously required, portable fire extinguishers are now proposed to be installed instead.

11


Exemption for fire hose reels (E1.6) Replacement of the fire hose reels with fire extinguishers – including requirements for extinguisher type, size and location.

E1.6 also includes a new sub-clause (b) which details specific type, size and location requirements for portable fire extinguishers in Class 2 or 3 buildings or Class 4 parts of a building. Requirements include –

Portable fire extinguishers must –• Be an ABE type extinguisher – which is to ensure that protection from Class A fire risks is

still provided whilst also providing additional protection from electrical fires.• Be a minimum size of 2.5 kg – a size which is considered appropriate for initial attack on a

fire by occupants.• Be distributed outside the SOU –

� So they serve only the storey at which they are located – similar to what was required for fire hose reels; and

� So the travel distance from the entrance doorway of the sole-occupancy unit is not more than 10 m.

The new provisions do not limit how these extinguishers are installed – therefore they may be installed in a cabinet should that be necessary.

The following few slides will illustrate the significance of the proposed change.

12


Exemption for fire hose reels (E1.4 and E1.6) What it looks like ? Don’t forget the signage!

Firstly, this slide represents a typical distribution of the previously required fire hose reels in a Class 2 or 3 building.

13

With the proposed changes, fire hose reels are no longer required to be installed. Instead, portable fire extinguishers must be installed, and – located so the maximum travel distance from the entry door of a SOU is not more than 10 metres.

14

Photoluminescent exit signs - E4.8

- New provisions have been inserted which allow the use of photoluminescent exit signs as an alternative to internally illuminated exit signs.

To permit the use of photoluminescent exit signs, E4.8 has been restructured to include a new sub-clause, which requires a photoluminescent exit sign to comply with a new Specification E4.8.

20

Photoluminescent exit signs (Specification E4.8)

- Where installed, photoluminescent exit signs must comply with specific provisions relating to illumination, size, pictorial elements and viewing distance.

Specification E4.8 requires photoluminescent exit signs to comply with Section 6 and Appendix D of AS 2293.1 – except where varied by Specification E4.8. The reference to AS 2293.1 has been retained for most aspects to ensure there is some consistency in the design and installation of exit signs – regardless of the material used.

It is important to note that in addition to compliance with AS 2293.1, the new Specification E4.8 also requires a photoluminescent exit sign to have its performance verified in accordance with a new referenced document –• ASTM E2073-10

This document is a testing standard for determining the manufactured luminance levels of photoluminescent exit signs. Essentially, this new document details the method in which these signs must be tested.

21


Sub-clause (a) of Clause 3 requires a photoluminescent exit sign to be continuously charged by a dedicated light source. This light source must – •  Provide 100 lux at the face of the sign; and •  Have a colour temperature not less than 4000 Kelvins. •  These requirements ensure that the signs are adequately charged in the event of a

power failure. •  Details on the colour temperature can be found in manufacturer’s data.

Clause 3 of the new Specification deals with illumination requirements for these signs, and is the first instance where the requirements of AS 2293.1 are varied.

Sub-clause (a) of Clause 3 requires a photoluminescent exit sign to be continuously charged by a dedicated light source. This light source must –• Provide 100 lux at the face of the sign; and• Have a colour temperature not less than 4000 Kelvins.These requirements ensure that the signs are adequately charged in the event of a power failure. Details on the colour temperature can be found in manufacturer’s data.

[CLICK SLIDE]

Sub-clause (b) of Clause 3 requires a photoluminescent exit sign to provide a minimum luminance of 30 mcd/m2 for not less than 90 minutes. Verification of this performance is detailed in sub-clause (c), which refers practitioners to the new referenced document, ASTM E2073.10 –except that the activation illumination is varied to be 54 lux.This lux level is deliberately lower than the level of illumination required by sub-clause (a), and is intended to provide a factor of safety when using these signs.

This ASTM document can be purchased through the SAI Global website.

22


Sub-clause (b) of Clause 3 requires a photoluminescent exit sign to provide a minimum luminance of 30 mcd/m2 for not less than 90 minutes. Verification of this performance is detailed in sub-clause (c), which refers practitioners to the new referenced document, ASTM E2073.10 – except that the activation illumination is varied to be 54 lux. This lux level is deliberately lower than the level of illumination required by sub-clause (a), and is intended to provide a factor of safety when using these signs.

Clause 3 of the new Specification deals with illumination requirements for these signs, and is the first instance where the requirements of AS 2293.1 are varied.

Sub-clause (a) of Clause 3 requires a photoluminescent exit sign to be continuously charged by a dedicated light source. This light source must –• Provide 100 lux at the face of the sign; and• Have a colour temperature not less than 4000 Kelvins.These requirements ensure that the signs are adequately charged in the event of a power failure. Details on the colour temperature can be found in manufacturer’s data.

[CLICK SLIDE]

Sub-clause (b) of Clause 3 requires a photoluminescent exit sign to provide a minimum luminance of 30 mcd/m2 for not less than 90 minutes. Verification of this performance is detailed in sub-clause (c), which refers practitioners to the new referenced document, ASTM E2073.10 –except that the activation illumination is varied to be 54 lux.This lux level is deliberately lower than the level of illumination required by sub-clause (a), and is intended to provide a factor of safety when using these signs.

This ASTM document can be purchased through the SAI Global website.

22


Clause 4 of Specification E4.8 details specific requirements for the pictorial elements of photoluminescent exit signs, which have been informed by overseas codes. Essentially, these pictorial elements are the same as traditional exit signs, except the signs are required to–• have all white elements replaced with a photoluminescent material; and• be 1.3 times larger; and• have a border of photoluminescent material that extends not less than 15 mm beyond

the pictorial elements.

23

Clause 4 of Specification E4.8 details specific requirements for the pictorial elements of photoluminescent exit signs, which have been informed by overseas codes. Essentially, these pictorial elements are the same as traditional exit signs, except the signs are required to–• have all white elements replaced with a photoluminescent material; and• be 1.3 times larger; and• have a border of photoluminescent material that extends not less than 15 mm beyond

the pictorial elements.

23


In addition to the enhanced pictorial elements of the signs, Clause 5 limits the positioningof these signs so the viewing distance to a sign does not exceed 24 metres.

This varies the requirements of Clause 6.6 of AS 2293.1.

24

In addition to the enhanced pictorial elements of the signs, Clause 5 limits the positioningof these signs so the viewing distance to a sign does not exceed 24 metres.

This varies the requirements of Clause 6.6 of AS 2293.1.

24


Unlike traditional externally illuminated exit signs, photoluminescent exit signs are only reliant the external light for charge – and not brightness in an emergency. Clause 6 in the new Specification E4.8 states that Clause 6.3 of AS 2293.1 does not apply – which means photoluminescent exit signs may be installed in all circumstances.

Although AS 2293.1 does not contain any specific provisions for PL signs – it contains requirements at Clause 6.3 which state that externally illuminated exit signs can only be used in areas that are provided with means for exhausting or excluding smoke.

Some may consider a photoluminescent exit sign to be externally illuminated, due to the requirement for a dedicated light source to be provided to continuously charge the sign, and therefore that these signs must only be used in areas with means for exhausting or excluding smoke.

However, unlike traditional externally illuminated exit signs, photoluminescent exit signs are only reliant the external light for charge – and not brightness in an emergency. Additionally, in the event of a fire, Performance Requirement EP2.2 requires any evacuation route to remain tenable for the period of time it takes for occupants to evacuate.

Consequently, Clause 6 in the new Specification E4.8 states that Clause 6.3 of AS 2293.1 does not apply – which means photoluminescent exit signs may be installed in all circumstances.

[Before going on to discuss the next change – I’m going to take a moment to demonstrate these photoluminescent exit signs – to do this, I’ll be switching off the lights for a moment – SO PLEASE DON’T PANIC! – and I’d advise against moving around]

DO demonstration and point out –

• Same look as traditional signs – except –• Larger size;• Border of PL material, etc.

[Advise that signs will be available for inspection at morning tea]

25

Provision of floor wastes (F1.11)

Provision of floor wastes (F1.11) - The clause has been amended to clarify that a floor waste must be provided in certain circumstances and the floor of the room where the floor waste is required must be graded to permit the drainage of water to that floor waste.

A change to F1.11 has also been made in BCA 2014 to clarify that –• in a Class 2 or 3 building;• OR – Class 4 part of a building,a floor waste is required to be installed when any bathroom or laundry is located above a sole-occupancy unit or public space.

This change retains the existing requirement in F1.11 for the floor of a bathroom or laundry to be graded to permit drainage of water to a floor waste.

45

Ventilation of car parks (F4.11)

The clause has been amended to require that where ventilation to a car park is provided by way of a system of natural ventilation, this must comply with the relevant sections of Part 4 of AS 1668.

This change occurs at F4.11 of Volume One – and results from mechanical and natural ventilation requirements being located in separate Parts of the 2012 edition of AS 1668. This differs from the 1991 edition of AS 1668.2, which included natural ventilation requirements for carparks.

This means that sole references are now made to the 2012 editions of AS 1668 –• Part 2 – for mechanical ventilation; AND• Part 4 – for natural ventilation.

F4.11 also previously required some background ventilation to always be provided in the circumstances that a car park exhaust system was deactivated by an atmospheric contaminant monitoring system. This safeguard now resides in the 2012 edition of AS 1668.2 – so it has been deleted from the BCA.

The requirement for certain car parks of more than 40 cars to be controlled by an atmospheric contaminant monitoring system in accordance with AS 1668.2 remains in J5.2.

That completes the changes to BCA 2014.

70

Section I – Equipment and safety installations

This Section has been removed in recognition that maintenance is primarily a State and Territory regulatory function. Changes to J8 have been made to accommodate the deletion of Section I. - Refer also to comments relating to ‘Maintenance’ under ‘NSW Variations – Amendments for BCA 2014’.

As a result of the deletion of Section I, some provisions relevant to energy efficiency have had to be relocated to Section J. These provisions relate to plant, equipment and components of services, such as –• Motorised shading devices;• Time switches;• AND - Thermostats,That are still required to be provided with access to allow for maintenance to occur, despite the deletion of Section I.

This change has seen J8.2 being restructured to include examples of the plant, equipment and components which must be provided with access for maintenance.

This list was previously included at I2.2.

36

Section J Changes

J2.4 Glazing in the Internal Fabric For a while now there’s also been some confusion on how to apply shading multipliers in Table J2.4c and Table J2.4d to glazing located in internal walls that separate a conditioned space from a non-conditioned space. This confusion was caused by a need to identify a – P/H value; and A ‘G’ value. How did it apply to internal glazing?

For a while now there’s also been some confusion on how to apply shading multipliers in Table J2.4c and Table J2.4d to glazing located in internal walls that separate a conditioned space from a non-conditioned space. This confusion was caused by a need to identify a –• P/H value; and • A ‘G’ value.

For external glazing, this is a relatively easy task – As shown on the SLIDE;HOWEVER – For internal glazing that separates a conditioned space from a non-conditioned space, this is far more problematic – SEE SLIDE

To simplify the application of the provisions for internal glazing, J2.4 has been amended.

49

J2.4 Glazing

The energy constants A, B and C for the south orientation sector in Table J2.4b must be used; AND – That the shading multipliers from a new Table J2.4e must be used. Ensures appropriate constants and multipliers are provided to windows which are likely to be significantly, if not completely, shaded. Revised downloadable glazing calculator will be made available on the ABCB website, and will include a new option for internal glazing in the façade area table.

The amendments to J2.4 include new requirements at J2.4(d)(ii), which detail how the aggregate air-conditioning energy value for glazing in the internal fabric must be calculated – [CLICK SLIDE]

Specifically, these new sub-clauses state that–• The energy constants A, B and C for the south orientation sector in Table J2.4b must

be used;• AND – That the shading multipliers from a new Table J2.4e must be used.This is to ensure that appropriate constants and multipliers are provided to windows which are likely to be significantly, if not completely, shaded.

A revised downloadable glazing calculator will be made available on the ABCB website, and will include a new option for internal glazing in the façade area table. Inserting the relevant size and energy performance criteria for an internal window will automatically apply the appropriate shading multipliers of Table J2.4e.

50

J2.4 Glazing

Revised downloadable glazing calculator will be as follows

The revised Glazing Calculator is due for release on the ABCB website on May 1 2014.The new column to select if you are entering values for glazing in the internal fabric is circled here in red.

51

J2.4 Glazing – Class 9c

Amendments to the energy index values in Table J2.4a for Class 9c aged care buildings. This will allow larger glazing to be installed, which is anticipated to assist compliance and lead to improved amenity for building occupants. Also reflected in the new calculator.

Another change to J2.4 in BCA 2014, sees amendments to the energy index values in Table J2.4a for Class 9c aged care buildings .

[CLICK SLIDE].

These changes provide a 20% increase in the allowance of energy index Option A and B for Class 9c aged care buildings in all climate zones. This will allow larger glazing to be installed, which is anticipated to assist compliance and lead to improved amenity for building occupants.

As a result of this change, Table J2.4a has been amended to separate energy index values for Class 3 buildings and Class 9c aged care buildings.

These changes have also been reflected in the ABCB’s new glazing calculator –[CLICK SLIDE]

52

Spec J1.5 Glazed Construction

A common external cladding on larger buildings are metal framed units, which consist of– Transparent glass (or vision glass); AND Opaque glazed section (or spandrel glass). An example of this is demonstrated on the slide.

A common external cladding on larger buildings are metal framed units, which consist of–• Transparent glass (or vision glass);• AND – an opaque glazed section (or spandrel glass).

An example of this is demonstrated on the slide.

Following concerns about how to apply the requirements of Section J to such panels, BCA 2014 has been amended to clarify their classification.

If we consider the definition of glazing, glazing must be “transparent” or “translucent”. This means that only the transparent glass – highlighted by the blue arrow – can be covered by the provisions at Part J2. The opaque section of these panel – due to their construction – are considered to be external walls and therefore are required to comply with the provisions of Part J1. To reflect this understanding, a new external wall construction type has been included in Specification J1.5.

54

Spec J1.5 Glazed Construction

Changes include the definition of glazing, where glazing must be “transparent” or “translucent”. Transparent glass (blue arrow) – can be covered by Part J2. Opaque section panels (red) are considered to be external walls and hence Part J1. A new external wall construction type has been included in Specification J1.5.

The ABCB has developed this new external wall type of construction in consultation with industry, and it provides a typical R-Value for this increasingly more common form of cladding.

Significantly, this construction includes a steel sheet and plasterboard, which distinguishes it from a window or glazing – which are covered by the provisions of Part J2.

55

A common external cladding on larger buildings are metal framed units, which consist of–• Transparent glass (or vision glass);• AND – an opaque glazed section (or spandrel glass).

An example of this is demonstrated on the slide.

Following concerns about how to apply the requirements of Section J to such panels, BCA 2014 has been amended to clarify their classification.

If we consider the definition of glazing, glazing must be “transparent” or “translucent”. This means that only the transparent glass – highlighted by the blue arrow – can be covered by the provisions at Part J2. The opaque section of these panel – due to their construction – are considered to be external walls and therefore are required to comply with the provisions of Part J1. To reflect this understanding, a new external wall construction type has been included in Specification J1.5.

54

Spec JV – Internal Heat Gains

Specification JV contains requirements for calculating the annual energy consumption of services in a building. To determine the annual energy consumption for air-conditioning, consideration must be given to internal heat gains within the building, including – Heat gains from occupants; AND – Heat gains from hot meals in a dining room, restaurant or cafe. This previously allowed for double counting.

Specification JV contains requirements for calculating the annual energy consumption of services in a building. To determine the annual energy consumption for air-conditioning, consideration must be given to internal heat gains within the building, including –• Heat gains from occupants;• AND – Heat gains from hot meals in a dining room, restaurant or cafe.

The previous structure of Clause 2(a)(iii) in Specification JV allowed for double counting of the heat gain allocations for hot meals in dining rooms, restaurants and cafes. To rectify this, Clause 2(a)(iii) has be amended and…[CLICK SLIDE]

56

Spec JV – Internal Heat Gains

Changes to the BCA include Table 2j for internal heat gains

A new Table 2j has been inserted. This Table replaces the previous sub-clauses in Specification JV for internal heat loads from occupants and hot meals.

57

Key Amendments to Volume 2 of BCA

Definitions Wall Cladding

Definitions (Part 1.1.1) - ‘Design wind speed’ - The definition has been amended to clarify that non-cyclonic (N) and cyclonic (C) region wind classes are not equivalent, because of inherent differing wind pressure coefficients.

In Volume Two, Table 1.1.1 for the defined term “design wind speed” has been amended to prevent misinterpretation – following instances where practitioners interpreted that non-cyclonic wind categories were equivalent to the cyclonic wind categories.

This often occurred with wind classes N4 and C2 due to both wind classes having equivalent design gust wind speeds. However, this is far from the case.In order to calculate a wind force onto a structure or building element – a series of factors need to be applied to this design gust wind speed. Once these factors have been applied, the cyclonic class – C2 –can have an ultimate state wind pressure up to 40% higher than the non-cyclonic class – N4 -----Therefore, they are far from equivalent.

To remove the potential for misinterpretation, Table 1.1.1 has been restructured and amended to –• Rename it as “Wind Classes”;• AND – to remove any reference to equivalency.

Like previous editions, Table 1.1.1 still shades areas that are considered as being “high wind areas” – for the purpose of Part 3.10.1.

60

Definitions (Part 1.1.1) - ‘Sanitary compartments’ - Additional guidance within the explanatory information has been provided in terms of what constitutes a “sanitary compartment”.

The change relates to clarification of the defined term “sanitary compartment”.

In both Volume One and Volume Two, a “sanitary compartment” is defined as “a room or space containing a closet pan or urinal”.

This definition has caused some to interpret that a room, such as an open bathroom, is not a sanitary compartment – While others have also interpreted a room containing a bank of toilets to be considered as one sanitary compartment.

To clarify the correct intent of the definition, new Figures have been inserted into –• Part A1.1 of the Guide to Volume One; • AND – Part 1.1 of Volume Two.

[CLICK SLIDE]

46

These Figures provide examples of what is and what is not a sanitary compartment.

The key being the location of a closet pan or urinal.

[CLICK SLIDE]

47

Wall cladding (3.5.3.3 and 3.5.3.4) - The clauses have been amended to provide for the use of hardboard wall cladding boards and sheet wall cladding. - Hardboard wall cladding material must comply with AS 1859.4 which is a new referenced Standard.

The format of these new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions are essentially the same as the current requirements for fibre cement and plywood in that they –• Refer to an Australian Standard for the products manufacturing requirements;• AND – they contain fixing requirements for their installation.

As part of the new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for hardboard cladding –• AS/NZS 1859 – Re-constituted wood based panels –

Part 4 – Wet processed fibreboard,has been referenced for the first time. This Standard includes manufacturing design requirements for hardboard which is permissible for use in exterior applications.

63

To again reflect changes in industry, Part 3.5.3 of BCA Volume Two has been amended in BCA 2014 to include new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for hardboard wall cladding,such as –• Hardboard wall cladding boards – shown on the left;• AND – Hardboard sheet wall cladding – shown on the right.

Whilst a commonly used material, the introduction of these new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions will negate the need for an Alternative Solution to be developed to allow hardboard wall cladding to be used.

As part of incorporating the changes to Part 3.5.3, some improvements were made to the format of the Part to improve the useability of the provisions.

62

To again reflect changes in industry, Part 3.5.3 of BCA Volume Two has been amended in BCA 2014 to include new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for hardboard wall cladding,such as –• Hardboard wall cladding boards – shown on the left;• AND – Hardboard sheet wall cladding – shown on the right.

Whilst a commonly used material, the introduction of these new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions will negate the need for an Alternative Solution to be developed to allow hardboard wall cladding to be used.

As part of incorporating the changes to Part 3.5.3, some improvements were made to the format of the Part to improve the useability of the provisions.

62

For hardboard sheet wall cladding – they too are required to be manufactured in accordance with AS/NZS 1859.4.

A new Table 3.5.3.3 specifies the fixing requirements, such as–• The type of fixing to be used, i.e. flat head nails or galvanised clouts;• The maximum stud spacing;• AND – the maximum spacing of nails.

65

Wall cladding (3.5.3.3 and 3.5.3.4) - New tables have been included within each clause which specifies the fixing requirements for both sheet and hardboard wall cladding.

As with the current requirements for fibre cement wall cladding boards, the new DTS Provisions detail the specific fixing requirements for hardboard wall boards. This includes –• the type of fastening to be used;

• maximum stud spacing's;• AND – minimum lapping requirements.

64

Key Amendments to the Guide to Volume 1 of the BCA

•  Dimensions of exits and paths of travel to exits •  Ceiling heights

Dimensions of exits and paths of travel to exits

(D1.6) - The Guide has been amended to clarify that projections below a ceiling must be considered when calculating the ceiling height in exits and paths of travel to any exits. In addition, it is also noted that exits and any path of travel to an exit must also comply with the minimum ceiling heights in F3.1.

Finally, I’ll discuss a change that has been made to the Guide at D1.6(a) to clarify that a path of travel to an exit needs to provide a minimum unobstructed height of 2 metres – as well as comply with the minimum ceiling heights in Part F3.1.

This means, a path of travel to an exit must not have any projections – such as cable trays or service pipes – below 2 metres from the floor –AND – it must also comply with Part F3.1 and have a minimum ceiling height of 2.1 metres.

66

Ceiling heights

(F3.1) - It has been clarified within the Guide that when measuring the height of a room, allowance should be made for floor finishes such as carpet and tiles to ensure the minimum ceiling height is achieved.

NSW variations – Amendments for BCA 2014

NSW - Volumes One and Two: Swimming pool barriers (NSW G1.1 and NSW 3.9.3) - The wording of the NSW Variation has been amended to align with the terminology used in the referenced Australian Standard relating to ‘out-of-ground’ pool walls. This change does not result in a change to the intent or application of the NSW Variation. Updating references to other legislation - In both Volumes the references in the ‘Footnote: Other legislation affecting buildings’, have been updated to reflect new names of departments and agencies and reflect changes to the names of legislation. A reference to the Boarding Houses Regulation 2013 has also been included.


NSW - Volume One: Section I - Maintenance - As the national provisions relating to maintenance have been deleted, the corresponding NSW Variations within NSW Section I have also been deleted. - It should be noted that this change does not have any effect on the relevant requirements relating to this matter within the EP&A Regulation 2000 and the Public Health Regulation 2012. Energy efficiency (NSW J(A)5.2, J(A)5.3, J(B)1 and J8.2) - These variations have been amended so as to now apply the national provisions of J8.2 relating to access for the maintenance of energy efficiency measures in NSW.


NSW - Volume Two: Building services (NSW P2.6.2) - The wording of this Performance Requirement has been amended to be consistent with the change in terminology within the national provisions. Thermal breaks (NSW 3.12.1.1) - Subclause (b)(ii) has been amended to correct the cross reference to the national provisions. Spa pool heating (NSW 3.12.5.1) - The explanatory information has been amended to reflect the new clause within the national provisions, which does not apply in NSW, as spa pool heating is regulated under BASIX.