BULLETIN
A U S T R A L I A N B U I L D I N G R E G U L AT I O N
2014
TECHNICAL SUPPORT FOR BUILDING CODE USERS
2014 NCC Seminars
NCC 2014 – an overview
Increased Use of Performance – JP3
Building Code of Australia awareness for plumbing practitioners
Construction of buildings in bushfire prone areas
All you need to know when pre-ordering your NCC
NCC Training – Online and in your own time
ABCB HANDBOOKS 10
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Condensation in Buildings
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Using On-site Renewable and Reclaimed Energy Sources
Applying energy efficiency provisions to new building work associated with existing Class 2 to 9 buildings
2011 2011
Landslide Hazards
Handbook
Handbook
NoN-MaNdatory docuMeNt
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
Digital Building Telecommunications Access
Sound Insulation
2010
Handbook NoN-MaNdatory docuMeNt
BCA Section J Assessment and Verification of an Alternative Solution
Energy Efficiency Provisions for Electricians and Plumbers
2006
Handbook Non-Mandatory Document
2010
2004
2006
2010
Handbook Handbook
Handbook
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
Handbook NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NoN-MaNdatory docuMeNt
Construction of Buildings in Flood Hazard Areas
Lifts Used During Evacuation
Digital DigitalTVTV Antenna Systems Antenna Systems for Homes 2013
Handbook
2012 2 0 10 39
Handbook
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
Handbook Handbook Non-Mandatory Document NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) and the participating Governments are committed to enhancing the availability and dissemination of information relating to the built environment. Where appropriate, the ABCB seeks to develop non-regulatory solutions to building related issues. These Handbooks are non-mandatory and are designed to assist in making information on these topics readily available.
The Handbooks are freely available from www.abcb.gov.au Coming soon...
Condensation in Buildings
Energy Efficiency Provisions for NCC Volume One
Energy Efficiency Provisions for NCC Volume Two
Maintenance of Essential Safety and Energy Efficiency Measures
Design and Construction of Community Bushfire Refuges
2014
2014
2014
2014
2014
SECOND EDITION
SECOND EDITION
SECOND EDITION
Handbook
Handbook
Handbook
Handbook
Handbook
Condensation in Buildings Second Edition
Energy Efficiency Provisions for NCC Volume One Second Edition
Energy Efficiency Provisions for NCC Volume Two Second Edition
Maintenance of Essential Safety and Energy Efficient Measures
Design and Construction of Community Bushfire Refuges
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
NON-MANDATORY DOCUMENT
CONTENTS
BULLETIN
NCC 2014 VOLUME THREE – Plumbing Code of Australia
BCA Class 2 to Class 9 Buildings
GUIDE TO VOLUME ONE
VOLUME TWO
BCA Class 1 and Class 10 Buildings
VOLUME ONE
BCA Class 2 to Class 9 Buildings
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NCC 2014 VOLUME ONE – APPENDICES VARIATIONS AND ADDITIONS
NCC 2014 NCC 2014 NCC 2014 FEATURE:
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Increased use of performance – JP3
REGULAR FEATURES:
16 REGULATORY DEVELOPMENT:
AWARENESS AND EDUCATION:
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Building Code of Australia awareness for plumbing practitioners
14
Have you pre-ordered your 2014 NCC yet?
21
NCC 2014 Seminars
16
Construction of buildings in bushfire prone areas
25
The ABCB Cadetship Program – looking forward, looking back
24
NCC training – online and in your own time
2
Chairman’s address
5
NCC 2014 – an overview
18
The new space race
Conference and events calendar for 2014
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Regulating external noise attenuation
26
Regulatory Impact Statements: your opportunity to consult
33
A STATE PERSPECTIVE: 28
12
BAF 2013 CONFERENCE SPONSORS: 10
Standards Australia: “new year, new developments”
30
Think Brick: research proves that brick performs best
32
Caroma: Caroma Toilet Suites with Unique Orbital Connector Technology
Melbourne’s water future
THE AUSTRALIAN BUILDING REGULATION BULLETIN (ABRB)
ARTWORK
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Disclaimer: The views in this magazine are not necessarily the views of the Australian Building Codes Board.
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CHAIRMAN’S ADDRESS
Mr John Thwaites
Welcome to the summer edition of the Australian Building Regulation Bulletin (ABRB). Looking back at the year that was it’s clear that much was achieved. The National Construction Code (NCC) continued to deliver on the Board’s life safety objective with amendments such as openable windows and building resistance to natural disasters (ie flooding). The ABCB also consulted widely with stakeholders on significant matters including the performance of the building control supply chain, and we saw three critical Regulation Impact Statements (RISs) receive the endorsement of the Office of Best Practice Regulation – continuing our 100% record of compliance. The Board envisages an exciting year ahead, with major national building regulatory reform being considered by Governments. The ABCB is proposing major transformation of its business model that will result in reductions in the cost of compliance, improved building outcomes and tangible economic benefits for Australia. If agreed by the nine governments, the building and construction industry in particular will benefit from improved NCC access, useability and awareness.
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Ultimately these reforms will allow the Board to more clearly focus on its mission of enhancing building health, safety, amenity and sustainability, while providing value added services to industry that will assist in reducing costs and improving housing affordability. This edition of the ABRB provides an overview of NCC 2014, including information on the new Building Code of Australia (BCA) requirements for the interconnection of smoke alarms in residential buildings, changes to the requirements for fire hose reels for Class 2 and 3 buildings and Class 4 parts of buildings and clarification on the meaning of slip resistance. Meanwhile, the Plumbing Code of Australia is being revised to realise further harmonisation with the BCA, through the removal of inconsistencies and the introduction of a new Part and new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions. Always a matter of interest to practitioners is the topic of Performance Requirements and the article Increased Use of Performance – JP3, provides an insight into developing an Alternative Solution that complies with Performance Requirement JP3. The Board supports the use of Alternative Solutions to provide cost savings and encourage the
use of innovative products in the design and construction of residential housing - and the article on page 8 demonstrates a method to do so. Ensuring our stakeholders are across changes to the NCC is always a priority and the upcoming 2014 Information Seminars are not to be missed. Held in all capital cities from mid-February to late March, the Seminars provide an opportunity for practitioners to hear about NCC 2014 direct from the experts. Those attending the morning Information Seminars are also encouraged to stay around for a free afternoon session looking at The Increased Use of NCC Performance Requirements. Find out more, including Seminar details for your capital city, within this edition. For those unable to attend I recommend our free seminar webcast that will be available from the ABCB website in late April. John Thwaites, ABCB Chairman n
NCC 2014
Using an old version of the NCC?
Don’t risk it… Order NCC 2014 online today! The National Construction Code (NCC) Series consists of the Building Code of Australia (Volumes One & Two, including Volume One Appendices), the Guide to Volume One and the Plumbing Code of Australia (Volume Three). This series is amended and published annually. Available for purchase in hard copy, digital download, online and occasional and monthly access.
NCC 2014 VOLUME THREE – Plumbing Code of Australia
BCA Class 2 to Class 9 Buildings
GUIDE TO VOLUME ONE
VOLUME TWO
BCA Class 1 and Class 10 Buildings
VOLUME ONE
BCA Class 2 to Class 9 Buildings
NCC 2014 VOLUME ONE – APPENDICES VARIATIONS AND ADDITIONS
NCC 2014 NCC 2014 NCC 2014
Purchase Online at www.abcb.gov.au Australian Building Codes Board
Building Australia’s Future
NCC 2014
Products & Pricing
National Construction Code (NCC) The NCC series consists of the BCA Volumes (One & Two, including Vol One Appendices) and the PCA (Volume Three). This package also includes access to the BCA Guide online. Hard Copy & Online $399 Digital Download & Online $399 Hard Copy, Digital Download & Online $449
National Construction Code Series 2014 VOLUME TWO Building Code of Australia Class 1 and Class 10 Buildings
2014
National Construction Code Series 2014 GUIDE TO VOLUME ONE Building Code of Australia Class 2 to Class 9 Buildings
2014
Housing Provisions The BCA Volume Two can be purchased as a stand alone product in the following formats. Hard Copy & Online $180 Digital Download & Online $180 Hard Copy, Digital Download & Online $199
Building Code of Australia (BCA) The BCA Includes both Volumes One & Two, including Vol One Appendices and access to the BCA Guide online. Hard Copy & Online $315 Digital Download & Online $315 Hard Copy, Digital Download & Online $365
National Construction Code Series 2014 VOLUME THREE Plumbing Code of Australia
2014
Guide to BCA Volume One The Guide is an annual edition designed to be used in conjunction with, and provides commentary on, Volume One of the BCA. Hard Copy only $180
Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) The PCA Volume Three is available as a stand alone product in the following formats. Hard Copy & Online $120 Digital Download & Online $120 Hard Copy, Digital Download & Online $135
NCC Online: Short-term Access Online access to the NCC Series for up to 30 consecutive days or up to 12 individual days on or before 30 April 2014. Monthly Access $70 Occasional Access $70
All prices are GST inclusive
Purchase Online at www.abcb.gov.au Australian Building Codes Board
Building Australia’s Future
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NCC 2014 – AN OVERVIEW This edition of the ABRB is published to coincide with the distribution of the 2014 National Construction Code (NCC) series. For readers who have not yet familiarised themselves with the changes in NCC 2014, this article contains a snapshot of some important changes.
a number of alarms may be distributed throughout the occupancy. In a Class 1 building, within sole-occupancy units of a Class 2 or 3 building and in a Class 4 part of a building, alarms must now be interconnected so that when one alarm is activated, it will activate all other alarms in the occupancy. This feature will increase the likelihood of occupants being aware of the presence of a fire.
Expanding the options available for exit signs
Internally illuminated “running man” exit signs are a common sight in many buildings where we live, work or play. In recent years, a number of other countries have permitted the use of photoluminescent (PL) exit signs under certain trucNtiaotinonal Construction circumstances as an National Cons s Code Series option to the more familiar Code Serie internally illuminated exit 2014 2014 signs. Photoluminescence VOLUME TWO is the ability of a material VOLUME ONE to absorb light and UV rays, of Australia Building Code of Australia and re-emit visible light for a Building Code Cl as gs s 1 and Class s 9 Buildin 10 Buildings Class 2 to Clas period after the source light has been removed. These signs have a unique ability to glow for long periods of time allowing for its potential use in the event of an emergency.
20124014 CHANGES TO THE BCA Improving early response to residential fires through interconnection of alarms For a number of years now the BCA has required smoke alarms, or where appropriate, heat detection alarm systems throughout residential occupancies. The location of these alarms in strategic positions such as a hallway serving bedrooms is designed to allow an early response by occupants to a fire. The size or layout of some residential occupancies can create situations where
Careful consideration was given to the applications in which these signs are used overseas and it was considered there was scope for their use in Australia provided that certain minimum specifications are met. As part of the new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for PL signs a new specification has been included that sets out minimum illumination, luminance and duration for the performance of a PL sign. The specification also covers sign colour, borders, pictorial elements and viewing distances, and references ASTM E2073-10 Standard Test Method for Photopic Luminance of Photo luminescent (Phosphorescent) Markings.
Achieving deregulation and better fire safety outcomes at the same time Reducing regulatory burdens and at the same time achieving better fire safety outcomes sounds like an impossible task. For a number of years concern has been expressed about the potential dangers associated with fire hose reels in Class 2 and 3 buildings and Class 4 parts of buildings. It is highly unlikely that an occupant who uses the fire hose reel in the event of a fire will be trained in its safe use. Also, water as an extinguishing medium can be a very dangerous mix with electrical or fat and oil fires that typically occur in residential occupancies, particularly when combined with the potential for the fire hose to prop open doors that form part of the building’s fire separating construction. Following consideration of these concerns and the commissioning of an assessment of the relative risks associated with fire hose reels and portable fire extinguisher used in residential occupancies, the requirement to provide fire hose reels in Class 2 and 3 buildings and Class 4 parts of buildings has been removed. In their place, additional installation requirements for portable fire extinguishers, including a requirement to cover Class A fire risks, has been introduced.
Other fire safety measures applicable to residential buildings The BCA contains a concession to allow timber framed construction for certain Class 2 buildings where non-combustible construction would otherwise be required. The concession was a result of research conducted by the Fire Code Reform Centre (FCRC) that included an extensive investigative report into the fire loads associated with timber framed buildings that confirmed overseas findings that the
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fire loads generated would not impede the safe and timely evacuation of occupants in Class 2 buildings built to a height of three stories. This research resulted in an exemption to the brick or concrete construction usually applied to structures of this size. Timber construction was generally considered also appropriate for Class 3 buildings, however further research was recommended prior to the concession being expanded to Class 3 buildings. This additional research has now been completed by the National Association of Forest Industries and Forest Wood Products Australia. The research report built on the earlier FCRC work and confirmed the concession could be extended to certain Class 3 buildings.
What does slip-resistant, nonskid and non-slip really mean? For many years, the BCA has contained requirements for stairway treads, landings and ramps to have slip-resistant, non-skid or non-slip properties. However, the BCA did not identify what level of slip resistance was required or how it could be measured. This situation created uncertainty, risks and disputes about what was considered acceptable. An Australian Standard for measurement of slip resistance existed but was not considered appropriate for referencing in the BCA. A recent revision of this standard (AS 4586) resolved these issues and, as a consequence, we are now able to provide an answer to the question, “What does slip-resistant, non-skid and non-slip really mean?”. NCC 2014 includes minimum slip resistance classifications for different scenarios and references AS 4586 – 2013 as a means of determining slip resistance. It should be noted that the NCC will allow acceptance of test reports based on the 2004 edition of AS/NZS 4586 and issued prior to the 2013 edition of AS 4586 being referenced in the NCC. However, test reports prepared after the BCA reference date of the 2013 edition of AS 4586 must be based on that version. Regular readers of the ABRB or those that attended one of the NCC 2013 awareness seminars will recall that the intention to
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reference AS 4586 in the NCC was flagged last year in order to give manufacturers and suppliers time to undertake testing of slip resistant products if they had not already done so.
New Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for hardboard wall cladding In a response to industry concerns that hardboard wall cladding was not covered by the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions of Volume Two, despite being a commonly used material, new provisions have now been included that allow this material to be used without recourse to an Alternative Solution. These new Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions complement the current range of wall cladding options recognised in Volume Two. This has resulted in the referencing of a new standard, AS/NZS 1859.4 Reconstituted wood-based panels, Specifications, Wet-processed fibreboard.
National Construction Code Series 2014 VOLUME THREE Plumbing Code of Australia
2014 CHANGES TO THE PCA PCA 2014: stage 1 of the most significant revision of the Plumbing Code in 10 years It is 10 years now since the 2004 edition of the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA) was first published, and three years since its incorporation in 2011 into the NCC, as Volume Three. 2014 sees the introduction of some significant updates and improvements which have been under development for some time.
They are the first stage of the Board’s work program to harmonise building and plumbing requirements between NCC Volumes, and elevate plumbing and drainage related public policy matters from referenced documents to the PCA. One of the main drivers for the NCC reform in 2011 was the need for consistency between the BCA and technical plumbing requirements, which at the time were a combination of the PCA 2004 and AS/ NZS 3500. For 2014, two key changes have been made toward better harmonising the PCA within the NCC overall. Firstly, the heated water energy efficiency provisions have been consolidated into the PCA to enable all the relevant provisions to be accessed from the one place. Also, a new ‘Part A4’ will define, consistent with similar parts of the BCA, the building classifications already referred to in some parts of the PCA. These will help in removing two well-known inconsistencies, but there are more and work to address these is now underway. New Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions in Part B1 will improve coverage of important public policy by elevating issues once dealt with by technical referenced documents up into the PCA itself. The first tranche of new provisions will cover the current water efficiency requirements for dual flushing cisterns and maximum flushing volumes, along with cross connection prevention for drinking water services. This transfer of public policy from technical standards committees to the Australian, State and Territory Governments and industry bodies, as represented through the ABCB, will over time provide more opportunities for practitioners and the community to participate in the development of plumbing and drainage policy. Other Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions have undergone minor re-structuring to better reflect their application, either as general provisions, or for specific installations where fixtures and fittings accessible for persons with a disability are required. These and other projects are still underway. For example, during 2014 and 2015, work will begin on quantifying a number of the PCA’s Performance Requirements to improve the scope for developing Alternative Solutions.
As the next stage of the ABCB’s ongoing work to improve, update and harmonise the PCA progresses, practitioners will be kept up-to-date through the public comment process, industry publications, and our education and awareness activities. So please keep an eye on our website at www.abcb.gov.au, and join us on Facebook!
WaterMark: Updates to scheme documents referenced in PCA Two critical documents which underpin the WaterMark Certification Scheme have been updated in the PCA following the transfer in 2013 of the scheme’s administration from Standards Australia to the ABCB. Specifically, the former Australian Standard AS 5200.000 will no longer be referenced as it has been replaced by the Schedule of Specifications, along with the Exempt Materials and Products listing, both of which will be maintained as ‘living documents’ published online and updated regularly through the ABCB website. Therefore, it will be important to check them from time to time to stay up to date.
Also, references to the risk assessment document, MP 78: 1999 have been replaced in the PCA by the ABCB Manual for the Assessment of the Risk of Plumbing Products. Unlike the Schedule of Specifications, and the Exempt Materials and Products listing, the ABCB Manual will continue as a static document directly referenced in the PCA.
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It was also suggested at the Board’s recent Plumbing Code Planning Day that research into water efficiency and other plumbing related issues, is needed to ensure the PCA remains on track as a contemporary regulatory tool. Pending resource availability it is intended that some of this work will commence in the coming year.
Lastly, it is worth noting that these important scheme documents will be available for download from the ABCB website for free, thereby reducing compliance costs. With the review of the WaterMark Scheme well underway, further updates and improvements to the scheme are expected. n
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FEATURE
INCREASED USE OF PERFORMANCE – JP3 Regular readers of ABR On-line will be aware of the ABCB’s ongoing project to quantify all NCC Performance Requirements. The project is well underway and on schedule to be substantially completed in 2016. The last edition of ABR On-line contained an article on Performance Requirement EP4.1 and the use of Verification Method EV4.1. The aim of the article was to explain and demonstrate the use of Verification Method EV4.1, which contains quantified measures of illumination for safe evacuation. Alternative Solutions may be proposed for any number of reasons including— • cost savings; • design preferences; • implementation of innovative products or systems; or • constructability. In this article we explain and demonstrate a method of developing an Alternative Solution that complies with Performance Requirement JP3. The intent of JP3 is to limit the use of high greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity energy sources for heating a conditioned space. It does not prevent the use of electricity because the GHG intensity is related to the thermal load rather than the energy consumption (covered by Performance Requirement JP1). JP3 also contains the qualification that it is to be applied “to the degree necessary”, allowing electricity to be used, even by low efficiency plant when there are no reasonable alternatives.
JP3 Heating such as for a conditioned space must, to the degree necessary, obtain energy from— (a) a source that has a greenhouse gas intensity that does not exceed 100 g CO2-e/MJ of thermal energy load; or (b) an on-site renewable energy source; or (c) another process as reclaimed energy.
Quantification of JP3 Sub-clause (a) contains an acceptable quantified measure of GHG intensity and therefore quantification of performance is inherent. Sub-clause (b) enables the use of a renewable energy source, which by definition, would not generate GHG emissions and therefore it does not need to be quantified. Sub-clause (c) enables the use of reclaimed energy which is clearly understood and therefore it does not need to be quantified. Consequently, the measure of GHG intensity described in sub-clause (a) can be used to demonstrate that an Alternative Solution complies with that option for compliance with JP3.
Development of an Alternative Solution under JP3 sub-clause (a) Sub-clause (a) contains a requirement that an energy source has a greenhouse gas intensity that does not exceed 100 g CO2-e/MJ of thermal energy load. This limitation would allow the use of— • gas and heating oil as an energy source for heating of a conditioned space; or • a combination of electricity and low emission sources such as gas, solar and biomass.
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In order to estimate the GHG intensity used by a particular energy source a series of emissions factors and conversions are required in order to express emissions per thermal energy load appropriately. The emissions factors used in this article are sourced from the National Greenhouse Accounts Factors July 2012, a publication by the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency1, specifically for use to estimate GHG emissions for general applications. (http://www.climatechange.gov. au/sites/climatechange/files/ documents/03_2013/nga-factors.pdf). As per this publication, the emissions factors for gaseous and liquid fuels, such as gas and heating oil, reported in kg CO2-e/GJ – converted to g CO2-e/MJ are; • Gas (natural gas distributed in a pipeline) 51.2 g CO2-e/MJ • Heating oil 68.8 g CO2-e/MJ The emissions factors for electricity, based on the State, Territory or grid description are reported in kg CO2-e/ kWh and have been converted to g CO2-e/MJ in Table 1. In order to convert the emissions factors for gaseous fuels, liquid fuels and electricity into useful quantities it should be noted that: For gaseous and liquid fuels; 1 GJ = 1000 MJ 1 kg = 1000 g Therefore, 1 kg CO2-e/GJ = 1 g CO2-e/MJ For electricity; 1 kWh = 3.6 MJ 1 kg = 1000 g Therefore, 1 kg CO2-e/kWh = 277.8 g CO2-e/MJ
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Under the Machinery of Government changes the responsibilities of the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency have since moved to the Department of the Environment. An Alternative link to the emissions factors used in this article can be found in Schedule 1 of the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting (Measurement) Determination found here: http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Series/F2008L02309
50% of the energy for heating the conditioned space will be sourced from gas and 50% from electricity, the GHG intensity of this combination would be equal to: GHG intensity of the gas component + GHG intensity of the electricity component. = Percentage of gas component x GHG emissions factor for gas + Percentage of electricity component x GHG emissions factor for electricity = (0.5 x 51.2) + (0.5 x 244.5) (g CO2-e/MJ) = 25.6 + 122.3 (g CO2-e/MJ) = 147.9 g CO2-e/MJ This system would not comply as the GHG intensity of the system is greater than that outlined in JP3 of 100 g CO2-e/MJ. However, if the electricity component was reduced to 25% of the total heating energy source, the system would meet the Performance Requirement JP3 (a) = (0.75 x 51.2) + (0.25 x 244.5) (g CO2-e/MJ) = 38.4 + 61.1 (g CO2-e/MJ) = 99.5 g CO2-e/MJ
Development of an Alternative Solution under JP3 sub-clause (b), onsite renewable energy source The NCC defines renewable energy as “energy that is derived from sources that are regenerated, replenished, or for all practical purposes cannot be depleted and the energy sources include, but are not limited to solar, wind, hydroelectric, wave action and geothermal.” On-site renewable energy sources refer only to those renewable energy sources that are
on, or impact upon, the same allotment as the building. Unlike sub-clause (a), subclause (b) is clearly defined and allows a renewable energy source to offset the heating for a conditioned space. For example, installing a 10kW photovoltaic system on the roof could be used to offset a 10kW heater. In this approach the qualification “to the degree necessary” allows the appropriate renewable energy source not only for the size of the heating required, but the location and availability of the types of renewable energy available on-site.
Development of an Alternative Solution under JP3 sub-clause (c) another process as reclaimed energy Although reclaimed energy, referred to in sub-clause (c) is not defined in the NCC, its meaning is well understood. Reclaimed energy sources are those that use energy that would otherwise be rejected as waste, such as heat from co-generation, tri-generation or an industrial process. Heat reclaimed through co-generation and trigeneration systems could be used for the heating of conditioned spaces and can assist with reducing GHG emissions. Co-generation and tri-generation systems typically use natural gas or biogas as the fuel for an engine that drives an electric generator. Cogeneration systems reclaim waste heat from the engine driving the electric generator and use that energy for heating. Tri-generation systems can be thought of as a co-generation system with some of the heating energy diverted to drive an absorption-cycle chiller. While not yet as common as chillers
Table 1: State, Territory and Grid Electricity Emissions Factors taken from National Greenhouse Accounts Factors July 2012 State, Territory or grid description
Emissions factor kg CO2-e/kWh
NSW and ACT Victoria Queensland South Australia South West interconnected system in Western Australia Tasmania Northern Territory
0.88 1.19 0.86 0.65 0.82
GHG intensity per thermal energy load g CO2-e/MJ 244.5 330.6 238.9 180.6 227.8
0.26 0.71
72.2 197.2
based on the vapour-compression cycle, absorption-cycle chillers are very economical for supplying a base cooling load where a heat source is available. Like sub-clause (b), the qualification “to the degree necessary” allows the most appropriate reclaim energy process to be used based on the individual design of the building. Further information regarding on-site renewables and reclaimed energy sources can be found in the Using On-Site Renewable and Reclaimed Energy Sources Handbook available from the ABCB Website (http:// www.abcb.gov.au/en/education-eventsresources/publications/abcb-handbooks)
FEATURE
Example: alternative solution for combined gas and electricity in ACT
As the intent of JP3 is to limit the use of a high GHG intensity energy source for heating a conditioned space, JP3 allows various methods in order to achieve this intent. Alternative Solutions using subclauses (a), (b) or (c) would need to ensure the energy source selected adequately met the heating requirements for a particular design. It should be noted that this requirement only applies to heating, not cooling, lighting or other services requiring electricity.
Want to know more about the increased use and Quantification of NCC Performance Requirements Project? The ABCB webpage (www.abcb.gov.au) contains additional details on the increased use and Quantification of NCC Performance Requirements project. Under the Major Initiatives / Quantification of NCC Performance Requirements tab you can access a summary of a recent survey regarding the use of Alternative Solutions throughout Australia, along with details for upcoming education and training opportunities targeting use and understanding the NCC Performance Requirements. The education and training opportunities will be held during the BCA 2014 Information Seminars during February and March 2014. n
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BAF 2013 CONFERENCE SPONSOR
STANDARDS AUSTRALIA: “NEW YEAR, NEW DEVELOPMENTS” Written by Alison Scotland, National Sector Manager, Standards Australia We would like to extend a big welcome to 2014, and to all our building and construction stakeholders. Our technical committees at Standards Australia have hit the ground running, commencing work on a range of exciting projects approved through the recent round of Standards Australia project prioritisation.
NCC UPDATE Standards Australia is proud to support the Australian Building Codes Board on the release of the NCC for 2014. We look forward to joining the ABCB team for the NCC Information Seminars throughout February and March. Some of the recently amended Australian Standards that are referenced in this edition include: • AS 1668.4-2012 The use of ventilation and air conditioning in buildings, Part 4: Natural ventilation of buildings. This document sets out minimum design requirements for natural ventilation systems that ventilate enclosures and requirements for the ventilation of car parks; and
• AS 1657-2013: Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders – Design, construction and installation. This document sets out requirements for the design, selection, construction and installation of fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders that are intended to provide safe access to places used by operating, inspection, maintenance and servicing personnel. A couple of correction amendments for the following standards have also been referenced in this version of the NCC: • AS NZS 1170.2 Structural design actions - Wind actions (Amendment No. 3); and • AS 3600 Concrete structures (Amendment No. 2).
Australian Standards in Action linkedin.com/company/standards-australia facebook.com/StandardsAustralia twitter.com/standardsaus
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GET LINKED(IN)
The Drafts for Public Comment stage is an important part of the standards development process. Draft standards documents are circulated for public comment to ensure the wider community has the opportunity to contribute feedback to the development of a standard. All comments are considered in detail by the relevant committee and, if necessary, further drafting is undertaken.
Another way of keeping in touch with standards developments in the building and construction area is to join our Standards Australia Building and Construction LinkedIn group. We have just reached the 500 member count, and our membership is steadily rising.
Whilst not all are referenced in the NCC, keep your eye out for the following draft standards available for public comment in early 2014: • DR AS 2419.1 Fire Hydrants - System design and installations; • DR AS 2327.1 Composite structures Simply supported beams; • DR AS/NZS 3500.3 Plumbing and drainage - Part 3: Stormwater drainage; • DR AS 3850.1 Precast and tilt-up concrete elements in building construction - Part 1 General requirements; • DR AS 4428.16 Fire detection and alarm systems - Emergency warning control and indicating equipment; and • DR AS 5100 Bridge design - Part 2: Design loads. The full list of drafts for public comment across all sectors can also be found by visiting our website and clicking on the Drafts for Public Comment link.
The page provides a platform for Standards Australia to communicate directly with our members, keeping practitioners informed of the work being undertaken, proposed projects, standards publications and other matters relevant to the sector. Documents out for Public Comment will be listed on the group page, along with updates on conferences, forums and events. To join the Standards Australia LinkedIn Page, look for Standards Australia – Building and Construction via the LinkedIn search function.
FORUMS IN 2014 For us, one of the most critical factors of success in the standards process is being connected to the industries, governments, and consumer groups who rely on our documents. Seminars, webcasts and other interactive forums are on the agenda for 2014. Fire Sector and Timber Sector forums are already planned for March–April this year. If you would like to contribute to the forums or find out more, please contact us.
FORWARD FOCUS ON INNOVATION Are you exploring any new technologies in the building and construction industry? Standards Australia welcomes discussions with the building and construction community to develop standards that drive innovation, accelerate speed to market and improve industry performance.
BAF 2013 CONFERNCE SPONSOR
HAVE YOUR SAY
Standards Australia welcomes proposals to amend, revise, or develop new Australian Standards. The first round of submissions for 2014 opens on Monday 3 February and closes Wednesday 19 March. For details in relation to the proposal process, or to download a copy of the Proposal form, please visit our website at: www.standards.org.au
KEEPING STANDARDS UP TO DATE Australian Standards are living documents that reflect progress in science, technology and systems. To maintain their currency, all Standards are periodically reviewed, and new editions are published. Between editions, amendments may be issued. We welcome feedback across the board in relation to the standards and other documents which we publish and other matters which you think we may need to know about. If you would like to speak with someone from Standards Australia, the easiest way to start the conversation is to email us at mail@standards.org.au. We look forward to working with you this year. n
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REGULATORY DEVELOPMENT
BUILDING CODE OF AUSTRALIA AWARENESS FOR PLUMBING PRACTITIONERS There are various construction requirements that cross between building and plumbing disciplines and are captured by the National Construction Code (NCC). Each volume of the NCC should not be perceived as specific to a trade discipline, rather that there is a single code for construction that applies to building and plumbing practitioners. Awareness of the NCC in its entirety, specifically provisions which cross between NCC volumes, is of great importance. The NCC applies to the construction of a new building. It also usually applies when undertaking new work to an existing building, however, the application of the NCC on the entirety of an existing building is dependent upon the legislation within each jurisdiction. An example of this is the Queensland Building Act 1975, which states if alterations comprise more than 50% of building volume over 3 years, a building certifier can require the whole or part of the building to comply with the latest standards.
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NCC Volume Three, the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA), must be adhered to when undertaking plumbing installations in either an existing building or new construction. This raises some issues in regards to connections between NCC volumes when undertaking plumbing installations in existing buildings. However, these issues highlight the importance placed on awareness and education of the entire NCC. In NCC Volumes One and Two, the Building Code of Australia (BCA), there are provisions which plumbers, hydraulic consultants, regulators and the like will come across on a daily basis, but may not have a full understanding of the requirements and where to find them. Some of these provisions that cross between NCC volumes and the scenarios in which they may occur include: • Stormwater, roof cladding, gutter and downpipe installation. This is common installation work for both residential and commercial plumbers and although covered by the PCA, there are also Performance Requirements, acceptable construction practices and referencing of AS/NZS 3500 Plumbing and Drainage Parts 3 Stormwater drainage or 5 Housing installations in Part 3.1.2 Drainage and 3.5 Roof and wall cladding, of BCA Volume Two.
National Construction Code Series 2014 VOLUME THREE Plumbing Code of Australia
2014 • Service installation in timber and steel framed structures. The installation of cold and heated water services in steel and timber framed structures are another common task for plumbing practitioners. However, they may not be aware that there are requirements in BCA Volume Two that may affect how these installations are undertaken, for example, restrictions on ‘checking-out’ of timber framing to accommodate pipework, maintaining clearances in wall cavities, isolation of pipework from steel framing and pipework through slabs and footings. The relevant Volume Two provisions include the acceptable construction practice 3.4.2.6 for steel framing, AS 1684.2 Residential timber framed construction, and Part 3.2.5 for footing and slab construction. • Service penetrations through fireresisting or smoke proof walls. Penetrations through fire and smoke proof walls are commonly undertaken by commercial plumbing practitioners. Awareness of the requirements in BCA Volume One, such as C3.15 Openings for service installations, is important due to the potential impact if the fire resistance were to be compromised by the penetrations.
Part F2 in BCA Volume One covers requirements for the provision of sanitary facilities in multi-residential, commercial, industrial and public buildings, such as the number of closet pans, urinals and washbasins within specific building classes, requirements for accessible sanitary facilities, construction of sanitary compartments and microbial (legionella) control. • Sound insulation of pipework. In some cases, services such as ducts, water services and soil, waste and stormwater pipes that serve or pass through more than one occupancy are subject to sound insulation requirements in 3.8.6.4 of Volume Two and Part F5 of Volume One. • Waterproofing of wet areas. Table 3.8.1.1 of BCA Volume Two specifies which building elements in wet areas must be either ‘waterproof’ or ‘water resistant’ and that the building elements must comply with AS 3740 Waterproofing of domestic wet areas. These provisions require that
penetrations in wet areas such as tap bodies and showerheads be sealed using proprietary flange systems or a sealant and that allowance must be made for the servicing of tap washers or ceramic discs without damage to the seal. • Site preparation and grading for surface water runoff. After installing sanitary and stormwater drainage, plumbing practitioners are often required to reinstate the ground surface for construction. They may not be aware that it is a requirement that surface water be diverted away from the building in accordance with Part 3.1.2 of BCA Volume Two. • Termite management systems when installing external pipework and subsoil drainage. Plumbing practitioners need to be aware of different termite management systems installed in relation to service penetrations through slabs and that a gap to allow clear uninterrupted visual inspection is required for all attachments to buildings such as downpipes. These provisions are contained within Part 3.1.3 of BCA Volume Two.
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• Sanitary facilities design, including facilities for people with a disability.
• Plumbing in bushfire-prone areas. Part 3.7.4 of the BCA Volume Two requires that Class 1 buildings located within designated bushfireprone areas must be constructed in accordance with AS 3959 Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas. For compliance with this standard, plumbing practitioners may need to adhere to additional requirements for roofing, exposed water and gas supply pipes, and penetrations through roofs. • Heated water supply installations, insulation and energy efficiency. Plumbing practitioners from both residential and commercial sectors will most likely be involved in the installation or maintenance of heated water systems that are subject to the provisions for energy efficiency and insulation in Part 3.12.5 of Volume Two of the BCA. As well as referencing AS/NZS 3500 Plumbing and drainage Part 4 Heated water services and Part 5 Housing installations, these provisions also contain requirements for water heaters, central heating water piping, insulation of services and heating and pumping of a swimming or spa pool. Through its NCC harmonisation project the ABCB, in consultation with State and Territory regulators and industry, is progressively looking to improve the seamlessness of related building and plumbing issues. As part of this project, the provisions for heated water energy efficiency will be moved into the PCA in the 2014 edition. The matters outlined above are only a sample of the cross-code issues that are relevant to plumbing practitioners; however, there are also many provisions contained within the PCA that building practitioners should also be aware of. This demonstrates the importance of awareness of the provisions contained within the entirety of the NCC suite as the key to compliant on-site construction practices for all trades. n
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AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
HAVE YOU PRE-ORDERED YOUR NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODE (NCC) 2014 YET? If you haven’t pre-ordered your 2014 edition yet, below are some frequently asked questions to help you when renewing your subscription.
SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION When does my current subscription expire? All subscriptions to NCC 2013 expire on 30 April 2014. If you do not renew your subscription before the expiration date you will no longer have access to view the NCC online.
When does NCC 2014 come into effect? NCC 2014 takes effect from 1 May 2014 and remains in force for 12 months. Subscriptions to NCC 2014 will expire on 30 April 2015.
RENEWAL NOTICE My subscription doesn’t expire for five months; why am I already getting renewal notices? You are mailed an early reminder to inform you that your subscription to NCC 2013 will expire on 30 April 2014 and to ensure there’s no interruption in your service.
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Do I have to renew now? No, you are not obliged to purchase at this point in time or at any time; your renewal notice is not a tax invoice, it is simply a prompt to consider preordering NCC 2014. A reminder notice will be sent in early February 2014 should you wish to wait.
Do I have to purchase the products listed on my renewal notice? No, the products listed are based on your NCC 2013 order(s) only. You can select from a range of product packages when you visit the ABCB online shop.
Why do I continue to receive renewal notices after I have paid for my subscription? During the on-line renewal process you are asked to enter your Customer Number. If you fail to do so, you are considered a new customer and a new Customer Account is generated. The old Customer Number is therefore not renewed and our sales system continues to send out automatic renewal notices. In order to stop receiving renewal notices regarding your previous Customer Number, please contact our Customer Service Centre to correct your subscription?
This may also be a timing issue where there is a ‘crossover’ between renewal notices being sent and the processing of an order. If you’ve renewed already, disregard the extra notices and please accept our apology.
Why am I receiving renewal notices if I elected to cancel my subscription? It takes a few days for the cancellation to take effect. If you receive any renewal notices after you cancel your subscription, please disregard them.
RENEWAL PROCESS How can I renew my subscription? You can renew your subscription directly through our ABCB online Shop. You will need your customer number and password to proceed to the checkout. Australian Institute of Building Surveyors
When you have completed your order it will be processed by our automated sales system. You will receive a confirmation e-mail immediately with details of your purchase and a tax invoice.
Are there postage and handling charges?
When will I receive my NCC order?
Your customer number is located below your delivery address details, at the top of your renewal notice.
All hard copy items incur a postage and handling charge.
NCC 2014 will be available for subscribers as an online preview as of 1 February 2014.
If you have forgotten your shop password you can request a new one by selecting ‘Forgot Login’ on the customer login screen.
For delivery within Australia orders will attract a $15 GST inclusive freight charge.
How do I change my address?
For international delivery postage charges will be calculated according to the Australia Post delivery zone system.
You can update all your account information via your online shop profile.
What payment options are available?
How much does the NCC cost?
We accept payment by Visa and MasterCard via our secure online shop.
The amount payable depends on the product(s) and format(s) selected. We have varying product packages ranging from $70 to $449 GST inclusive. For a list of packages please visit our ABCB online shop.
AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
Where will I find my customer number and shop password?
Distribution of the hard copy and digital download will commence in March 2014. The digital download can be accessed from the ‘Downloads’ button in your online shop account.
Where can I find out more information on how to order my NCC? Further information regarding discounts, delivery, IT specifications and more is available if you go to the ‘Help’ button on the home page of the ABCB online shop. n
ABCB CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE
Is there a discount for students?
How do I contact the Customer Service Centre?
We offer a 10% discount to all full time students. Applications for a student discount are subject to approval and can be submitted from the ‘My Cart’ page after you add an eligible product to your cart.
By email: ncc@abcb.gov.au By phone: 1300 134 631
The International Fire Engineering Guidelines (IFEG) International Fire Engineering Guidelines
International Fire Engineering Guidelines
Edition 2005
have been developed by the ABCB and equivalent organisations in New Zealand, Canada and the United States of America. The following organisations endorse the Australian parts of this document as describing an appropriate process for design and approval of fire safety in buildings by competent practitioners: • The Australian members of the Australasian Fire and Emergency Service Authorities Council (AFAC); • Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS); and • The Institution of Engineers Australia (IEAust) Society of Fire Safety. The Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) supports the aims of this document.
Purchase via the ABCB’s online shop at www.abcb.gov.au Student Discount Available Australian Building Regulation Bulletin
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CONSTRUCTION OF BUILDINGS IN BUSHFIRE PRONE AREAS Historically, bushfire events in Australia have resulted in a normalised annual average of approximately 14 fatalities per annum, which is far less than the average number of fatalities caused by fires in buildings. However, the number of fatalities resulting from a specific bushfire event (e.g. the Black Saturday fires, Victoria 2009 with 173 fatalities) can far exceed that resulting from an individual building fire (e.g. the arson attack on a nursing home, Sydney 2011 with 21 fatalities; a national record). The increased risk to life safety arising from living in densely wooded areas has been a catalyst for reform of planning and building regulations over several decades. Contemporary planning schemes identify ‘bushfire prone areas’ and typically impose stringent conditions on an approval to build in these areas. Similarly, building regulations specifically require buildings in these areas to be designed and constructed to reduce the risk of ignition from a bushfire. Formal investigation and analysis of significant bushfire events, in most cases, will identify key characteristics that have contributed to the specific outcomes of that event. A leading example of such a process was that conducted by the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission (VBRC) into a series of bushfires that devastated large areas of bushland in 2009. The Final Report from this investigation contained over
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65 recommendations, many of which proposed reforms of existing planning and building codes. Findings and recommendations arising from formal investigations are the traditional drivers of an evolutionary process that aims to deliver more risk effective and cost effective regulatory codes than their predecessors. Since its inception, the ABCB has been at the forefront of this evolutionary process and has implemented significant reform of standards for the design and construction of buildings in bushfire prone areas. More recently, the ABCB has been responsible for implementing a number of recommendations arising from the VBRC, some of which were presented in an Interim Report issued in 2009, while others were presented in the Final Report issued in July 2010. An outline of ABCB actions on building related issues is presented below.
INTERIM REPORT 2 – PRIORITIES FOR BUILDING IN BUSHFIRE PRONE AREAS In November 2009 the VBRC issued the second Interim Report in which it presented recommendations specifically related to the design and construction of buildings proposed to be constructed in bushfire prone areas. The first three recommendations of this report were directed to the ABCB. Recommendation 1 supported the ABCB’s initiative to develop a performance-based Standard for the design and construction of structures now referred to as ‘private bushfire shelters’. This recommendation also proposed that the Standard be made available to the public no later than 30 April 2010. In response, the ABCB developed and published the ‘Performance Standard for Private Bushfire Shelters’ on schedule.
In 2012, the 2010 edition of the Standard was reformatted and updated to incorporate findings of ABCB commissioned research into minimum acceptable tenability criteria required to be maintained during occupation of a sealed shelter. The 2012 Standard remains freely available to the public via the ABCB website. Recommendation 2 of the Interim Report proposed that the Building Code of Australia be amended to include private bushfire shelters as a new class of building. The ABCB supported this recommendation and following publication of the performance-based standard, the Building Code of Australia was amended in 2011 to include private bushfire shelters as Class 10c buildings. Recommendation 3 proposed that the performance-based standard be referenced in the NCC as soon as possible. Subsequently, the ABCB Board determined that only the Performance Requirement presented in the Standard would be included in the NCC and the Standard itself would only be referred to as an available guide for achieving compliance with the mandatory Performance Requirement.
FINAL REPORT – JULY 2010 The Final Report of the VBRC contained 67 recommendations of which 19 related to planning or building issues, with one recommendation directed to the ABCB. Specifically, Recommendation 48 comprised five parts and an outline of the ABCB’s response is provided below. Recommendation 48.1 sought amendment of respective NCC Performance Requirements to highlight that the specific requirement to reduce the risk of ignition of building elements included the potential of ignition from ember attack. This proposal was supported and amendments were incorporated in NCC 2012.
Recommendation 48.2 related to continued ABCB collaboration with Standards Australia to expedite the review and ongoing development of AS 3959 ‘Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas’ and other bushfirerelated standards referred to in the NCC. The ABCB supported this recommendation and AS 3959 was subsequently revised in 2009 and adopted in BCA 2010. The ABCB continues to collaborate with Standards Australia on the development of this Standard. Recommendation 48.3 proposed that the ABCB negotiate an arrangement with Standards Australia and SAI Global Ltd for free online access to AS 3959, other Australian Standards referred to in AS 3959 and any other bushfire-related Standards referred to in the NCC. While robust discussions were conducted, an acceptable arrangement was unable to be reached. As an alternative action, the ABCB subsequently purchased a limited number of AS 3959 as well as Standards Australia handbook ‘HB 330-2009: Living in bushfire-prone areas’ and made these freely available to the public upon request. Recommendation 48.4 suggested that the NCC be amended to remove Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for the construction of buildings on land assessed under AS 3959 as being category ‘BAL-FZ’. However, due to a lack of supportive information and a deficiency of substantiating documentation, the ABCB was unable to action this recommendation. Recommendation 48.5 proposed that the NCC be amended to introduce bushfire protection requirements for certain non-residential buildings, specifically those buildings occupied by people that may be vulnerable to bushfire attack, such as schools, child care centres, hospitals and aged care facilities. Due to a lack of
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During the development process, an international literature survey revealed that the proposed document would be published as a ‘world first’ design and construction Standard for private bushfire shelters.
supportive information and deficiency of substantiating documentation to demonstrate the problem, the ABCB did not action this recommendation; however, the Board agreed to review the NCC if substantive evidence became available. While Recommendation 48 was specifically directed at the ABCB, another recommendation in the Final Report also became a catalyst for ABCB action. Recommendation 4.1 was directed at the Victorian Government and proposed that existing policy and practice documents relating to the provision of ‘fire refuges’ be replaced, as a matter of priority, by new standards for the design and construction of ‘community refuges’. Subsequent to the release of the Final Report, the Victorian Building Commission considered Recommendation 48 and, on the basis that other State and Territory governments may have an interest in the development of community bushfire refuges, requested that the ABCB develop national standards for this type of building. The ABCB accepted the Building Commission’s proposal and work on the production of a performance-based design and construction handbook for community bushfire refuges has recently been completed. The new handbook is scheduled for publication in early 2014.
WHERE TO FROM HERE? The ABCB will continue to monitor the efficacy of NCC requirements for the design and construction of buildings proposed within bushfire prone areas and, when necessary, initiate the evolutionary reform process. n
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THE NEW SPACE RACE Since 2010, NCC BCA Section J Deemed-to-Satisfy requirements for limiting the power used by HVAC fan and pump motors has resulted in an increase to system duct and pipe sizes. At the same time, Section J has also increased minimum insulation R values and has moved to a “Material R value” basis for insulation systems, leading to increased thicknesses for traditional materials. Although increasing the energy efficiency of building services systems is an essential action to control building-related energy use, the combined effect of these three changes has led to an increase in the spatial requirements of the services that need to fit into the plant rooms, shafts and ceiling spaces of BCA DeemedTo-Satisfy compliant buildings. In this “view from all sides” article, Vince Aherne, M.AIRAH, speaks to four experts about how the construction industry is dealing with these spatial issues. Ever since humans first started erecting buildings, there has been conflict around providing space for building services. In days past this might have involved allowing space for tall ceilings to facilitate ventilation and comfort, or inserting large, high windows for adequate day lighting. In many contemporary buildings the indoor environmental conditions are provided by building services systems, which all need to be accommodated within the often-hidden building spaces of plant rooms, shafts, false ceilings and raised floor spaces.
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SMASH THE MYTH: GREEN HVAC IS NOT LEAN HVAC “There is a myth pervading the industry that being green means being lean, and that energy-efficient HVAC systems are somehow smaller than standard systems,” says Scott Brown, M.AIRAH, sustainability director with Waterman Group.
“It is not the cost of larger ducts or plant that is the issue,” says Lee. “It is the cost of the additional space required that seems to be the limiting factor.” Space, in other words, is the crunch point.
THE RACE FOR SPACE Vince Aherne, M.AIRAH
The truth is that while a green building might reduce dependency on HVAC, all things being equal, Brown says that energy-efficient HVAC systems are more likely to lead to an increase in spatial requirements, not a decrease. He says bigger ducts with more insulation need bigger shafts and deeper ceiling spaces. More efficient chillers and boilers need bigger heat exchangers, with more plantroom access. “A greener system configuration with air-to-air energy recovery, for instance, means more ductwork and additional heat exchangers to fit in,” Brown says. Brown notes that plant rooms with energy-efficient HVAC plant and airto-air heat recovery can be 50 per cent or even 100 per cent bigger than they would have been had energy efficiency not been a concern. Mark Lee, Affil. AIRAH, is engineering manager with mechanical contractor James L Williams. He says that generally speaking, building designers allocate the same or smaller spaces for building services as they have in the past, making access tight and providing for future maintainability very difficult. So the same old battles are being fought by designers.
Jason Veale, Associate Director – Building Engineering with AECOM, agrees.
“Every project has a degree of tension between architects and engineers over spaces,” he says. “Section J is now increasing the need to coordinate and communicate about service space early.” According to Peter Cass, M.AIRAH, who is Associate, Services Cost Management with Rider Levett Bucknall, architects are pivotal to changing space allowances because they own the building spaces. But as Cass explains, extra space is not always a straightforward proposition. “Developers are measuring new projects against the space ratios of the existing buildings that will compete for the same tenants,” Cass says. Cass says that to some developers, any non-lettable space is viewed as wasted. Brown, Cass and Lee all agree the reality is that allocating additional space is very expensive. Construction costs will change, which affects the profitability of an entire project. “There may be occasions when bigger shafts might be accommodated,” says Veale. “But deeper ceiling spaces? No way.” So, all agree that there has been no apparent change in spatial allowances for services, and that building floor-tofloor heights have not changed.
WHAT ARE THE SOLUTIONS? Apart from providing additional space for services accommodation, there are a few alternative options available.
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“The reality is that, in most cases, larger services are being squeezed into the same or smaller spaces to the point that coordination is almost impossible,” Lee says.
So the same old split-incentive barriers apply. “Why should a developer or building owner pay additional construction costs to reduce operating costs for future tenants?” asks Cass. Green leases go some way to addressing this, as do building rating systems that can be used to market a building for sale or lease.
Although new tools such “The market is always as BIM software and keen to respond, and visualisation or clashsome HVAC solutions detection tools can predict “Engineers need to push harder and sell have different spatial Jason Veale, Associate Director, requirements than others,” and highlight clashes the merits of increased services space to Building Engineering – AECOM Cass says. between services, it is the designers and builders,” Cass says. practicalities around the “Green Star and NABERS do a great job Brown notes that chilled space needed for installation that is a of recognising buildings designed with beam systems tend to be more space key pressure point on site. improved energy efficiency,” says Cass, efficient, and can be left exposed if “The pressures exerted by architects, adding that this includes aesthetically desirable. designers and builders mean that on HVAC systems that have Cass agrees, and notes site, it becomes a race to install your larger ducts and pipes. that distributed systems services first so that the other trades Eventually end users will – for example, many have to work around you,” Lee says. drive this agenda when smaller systems rather Though 3D building models are useful they begin to favour (that than single, large central tools for laying out services, they do not is to say, pay more for) systems – and underfloor solve all the issues around access for energy-efficient building air distribution systems, installation. spaces. are also becoming popular, for a variety of In addition, as Lee points reasons, including space out, there are many other considerations. Scott Brown, M.AIRAH, Sustainability benefits of increased Director – Waterman Group or reasonable services Cass also says chilled Lack of services space has always been a space, including less and/or heated structures barrier to optimum performance. In the wastage and rework (floors, walls, ceilings) are another past, when a clash with existing services on site due to services clashes, faster option that is being adopted to keep or immovable structural component installation time, reduced installation ahead of the curve for building design. was encountered, distribution systems costs, and better access for maintenance However, as Brown points out, these could be made to work, by flattening and inspection for the life of a system. solutions themselves tend to have ductwork or installing aerodynamically These benefits also need to be a significant cost premium over the restrictive bends. recognised. more standard HVAC methods, and Some of these transitions are quite this all needs to be added into the mix. extreme, and these types of “solutions” Also, these solutions, if not correctly reduce system energy efficiency. In fact, and appropriately implemented, can they are exactly the type of thing that lead to issues with indoor air quality, the NCC Section J requirements are “It is becoming increasingly common condensation and mould. attempting to address. now for designers to use the alternative All our experts agree that new attitudes JV3 modelling approach to reduce As Veale says, duct routes are often regarding energy efficiency must be insulation requirements for pipes and chosen with little regard to the impact developed by architects, developers, ducts to avoid increases in ceiling on overall fan energy. Restrictions at and by the eventual building owners depths,” Veale says. the inlet and outlets of fans and airand tenants. handling units can significantly degrade JV3 modelling allows trade-offs “Building designers and developers are the expected system performance. The between system components because it well aware of the benefits of energymotor power and energy consumed is the overall performance of the system efficient services systems,” Lee says. rises as the resistance along the that is assessed. “Those benefits generally flow to the distribution route goes up. Now “Over-complying on performance for occupier, who is often not the building these make-it-work options are no chillers, pumps, fans and lighting can owner, nor the entity paying the longer available due to overall power allow for a relaxation of insulation construction costs”. restrictions, so what is an industry to do?
OLD SOLUTIONS CAN NO LONGER BE APPLIED
ALTERNATIVE SOLUTIONS; LIFE IS A TRADE-OFF
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REGULATORY DEVELOPMENT requirements and still produce an equivalent overall energy result,” Veale says. A bigger chiller in the plant room might allow a smaller duct on the occupied floors, for instance. “If spaces are going to be squeezed to the extent that it affects the profitability of the project then JV3 is used to avoid that situation,” Veale says. “JV3 modelling almost always improves the situation significantly, and the modelling and design work comes at a fraction of the cost of losing a floor off the top of a building.”
HOW CAN THE AWARENESS OF THESE ISSUES BE RAISED WITHIN THE INDUSTRY? One suggestion from Lee about how awareness can be raised is the introduction into the NCC of minimum aspect ratios for ducts, or a standard calculator, like that used for glazing. This would help consultants and contractors prove to builders that a system will not comply if it is forced into the restrictive spaces they propose.
A suggestion from Veale is for engineers to document the final insulated dimensions of the ductwork, and not the sheet metal dimensions. Design drawings often show sheet metal sizes for pricing; construction drawings often show sheet metal sizes for fabrication. Yet these metal sizes are generally not the final spatial size required if the duct is to be externally insulated. All agree that the design team needs to establish the spatial requirements very early in the process so it can be accommodated, and make sure all stakeholders know why it is occurring.
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The final answer is somewhere in between, after both engineer and architect have pushed to be as efficient in their spatial requirements as possible.
Communications around spatial requirements need to be ongoing as the project progresses.
IS BETTER INTEGRATION IN THE DESIGN PROCESS THE KEY?
Peter Cass, M.AIRAH, Associate Services Cost Management – Rider Levett Bucknall
“The balance of benefits and costs does not appear to have been addressed holistically within building regulations,” Brown says. “A lot of attention has been given to the final energy efficiency of HVAC plant, but little given to the additional space, materials and embodied energy required to implement such plant.”
Mark Lee, Affil.AIRAH, Engineering Manager – James L Williams
Says Brown: “Education and awareness-building is the key. The myth that green always means lean for HVAC systems needs to be broken.”
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“A good design team will have a project meeting to deal with it,” says Veale.
Given the imperative to reduce the energy consumption of buildings, it is surprising that building services – one of the major components of energy usage and cost – are rarely considered in the early stage of a design or as potential driving factors for form and spatial configuration.
It is the building orientation, form and fabric aspects that generally dominate the cooling and heating loads. In order for the form and geometry of buildings to be considered in response to energy efficiency and building services optimisation, multidisciplinary integration is required in the early stages of the design process, when the design proposal is still flexible. So, to sum up, energy-efficient HVAC tends to be bigger than standard HVAC. Energy-efficient and green buildings tend to provide the same or less space for services than standard buildings. Something has got to give. Engineers push for more space, and architects and developers push back or resist.
JV3 energy modelling offers an alternative compliance path for those buildings and systems that encounter significant problems with NCC-driven Deemed-to-Satisfy pipe and duct sizes.
The ABCB and AIRAH would like to thank the following individuals for sharing their views in this article with Vince Aherne, M.AIRAH: Scott Brown, M.AIRAH, Sustainability Director – Waterman Group Peter Cass, M.AIRAH, Associate Services Cost Management – Rider Levett Bucknall Mark Lee, Affil.AIRAH, Engineering Manager – James L Williams Jason Veale, Associate Director, Building Engineering – AECOM. The Australian Institute of Refrigeration Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) is the recognised voice of the Australian air conditioning, refrigeration and heating industry, and aims to minimise the environmental footprint of our vital sector through communication, education, and encouraging better practice. Visit www.airah.org.au for more information about AIRAH’s projects, conferences and events, publications, courses and professional development. n
Building Code of Australia 2014 INFORMATION SEMINARS
City
Date
Venue
Canberra
18 February
National Convention Centre
Adelaide
20 February
Adelaide Convention Centre
Brisbane
25 or 26 February
Brisbane Convention Centre
Darwin
28 February
Darwin Convention Centre
Perth
4 or 5 March
City West Function Centre
Sydney
18 or 19 March
Australian National Maritime Museum
Hobart
24 March
Hotel Grand Chancellor
Melbourne
26 or 27 March
Melbourne Convention Exhibition Centre
• BCA Seminars: 9:30am to 12:30pm (includes Standards Australia presentation) • Performance sessions: 1:30pm to 3:00pm on the first afternoon only where there are two seminars being held in a city
Hear about changes to the BCA from the experts The Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB) is finalising updates to the 2014 National Construction Code (NCC), and as members of the building and construction industry you need to know what changes are coming into effect. Presenters from the ABCB will inform you of these changes at a series of Information Seminars, commencing in February 2014, in all capital cities. The Information Seminars will play an important role in raising practitioner awareness of Building Code of Australia (BCA) amendments scheduled for 2014. The seminars are an opportunity not to be missed, and will also feature a presentation by Standards Australia on changes to Australian Standards.
There will also be a free afternoon session about the Increased Use of Performance, in all capital cities. A unique opportunity, practitioners will hear from the experts about how to improve the use of alternative solutions. Please note you must have registered for the BCA Information Seminar to attend. Book now – seats are limited.
For more information contact: By email: bafc8mp@bigpond.net.au By phone: 0400 275 388
Register online at: www.abcb.gov.au
REGULATORY DEVELOPMENT
REGULATING EXTERNAL NOISE ATTENUATION For those of you that reviewed the NCC 2014 public comment draft between June and August 2013, you may recall a proposal for noise attenuation in Class 2 residential buildings located in high noise exposure areas. It is understood that noise from roads and railways can cause harm to the health of building occupants when the noise level at the external façade of a building is 55dB or greater, the façade is inadequate in attenuating noise and the occupants are sensitive to noise. This proposition has been supported by the World Health Organisation in its 2011 report, Burden of Disease from Environmental Noise: quantification of healthy years of life lost in Europe. A compilation of noise exposure – response relationships were examined to determine the extent of harm to health that is possible from road and rail noise. These relationships were linked to noise exposure mapping in Europe to establish the harm that is currently occurring to European residents. In Australia, the residential developments subject to noise from major roads and railways are usually infill developments, comprising new apartments. The World Health Organisation burden of disease report provides an analytical framework for assessing the impact of external noise on building occupants in apartments. To gain an understanding of the extent of the problem in Australia further evidence was needed. This evidence was obtained from an ABCB commissioned survey of apartment dwellers in Australian capital cities by Di Marzio Research regarding their choice in purchasing an apartment and the influence of road traffic noise.
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The Di Marzio survey reached more than 500 apartment dwellers. While the survey indicated that a majority of apartment dwellers were not influenced by road traffic noise in their apartment choice, a significant minority (one-third) were. This one-third group sensitive to noise well understood the impact road traffic noise could have on their amenity, the comfort and enjoyment of living, and to a lesser degree on their health. Many residents sensitive to noise had taken action to reduce the intrusion of road traffic noise into their apartments through: choosing an apartment away from the noise source; buying an apartment with noise attenuation features such as double glazing or window shutters; or adding attenuation features after purchase. The survey contributed to the picture of how road traffic
noise is affecting apartment residents in Australia’s capital cities and facilitated use of the World Health Organisation framework to determine that harm to residents is occurring in Australia as a consequence of external noise. The External Noise project, which was established by the ABCB in late 2000, set out to investigate whether external noise provisions should be included in the NCC. Currently the NCC only regulates the sound transmission between dwellings.
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New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia (via a Minister’s specification) currently have construction requirements, which sit outside of the NCC, to address external noise intrusion into buildings in high noise exposure areas. They all have a similar objective focusing on habitable rooms, but differences in requirements including • the number and ranges of noise categories; • varying Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions for each building element; • the treatment of ventilation for health; and • buildings to which noise limits apply (NSW includes churches, hospitals etc. while the others are only applied to residences). The provisions developed for inclusion in the NCC 2014 public comment draft took into consideration the requirements from NSW, Qld and SA, and the different approaches used. The Board, while acknowledging the potential effect on occupant health, has decided that the external noise provisions presented in the NCC 2014 public comment draft will not be included in NCC 2014. Part of the reason for this decision was the limited availability of noise zones mapping across Australia and the time needed for those states with requirements to convert to the NCC noise zone categories. Without noise zone mapping the external noise provisions cannot be easily applied to the construction of new apartment buildings. The Board intends on revisiting the external noise matter in 2015. n
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AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
NATIONAL CONSTRUCTION CODE TRAINING – ONLINE AND IN YOUR OWN TIME The ABCB is pleased to announce that the online training courses which will support the National Construction Code (NCC) are close to finalisation. Once available, the courses will provide a new avenue for practitioners to fulfil educational requirements and potentially earn Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points – all from the comfort of your personal computer. Specialist online training provider Pointsbuild Pty Ltd. have developed an initial set of 6 online courses covering the Australian Building Regulatory System, the Structure and Use of the NCC and Understanding and Complying with Performance Requirements. Work is already underway on more courses to support the Plumbing Code of Australia and Working with the Disability Access Provisions. Keeping in mind the needs of all building practitioners, the online courses will have wide appeal; Certificate III level students just commencing their building studies or professionals with extensive experience will find a course of interest. In addition, completion of an online course could translate into CPD points (depending on the administrator of relevant CPD Schemes and which courses are completed).
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The ABCB anticipates that this new initiative will help NCC users with their education and training needs, while assisting the building industry to be better informed. All of the online courses will be available for purchase from the Pointsbuild website in early 2014.
For more information visit the Pointsbuild website at www.pointsbuild.com.au For more information about this and other ABCB education and awareness initiatives, visit the ABCB website at www.abcb.gov.au n
AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
THE ABCB CADETSHIP PROGRAM – LOOKING FORWARD, LOOKING BACK At the beginning of February, the ABCB Cadetship Program entered its 12th year and welcomed two new cadets into the office. ABRB talked to 2012 cadet Sophie Clarke and 2013 cadet Angela Wu, to find out how the Program benefitted their careers…
If you are looking at a career in the construction industry, building regulation is likely to be something that you deal with on a daily basis - and the Cadetship can help. Whether the program is the platform to develop professional skills that you take into the field or the start of a career at the ABCB, I highly recommend the Cadetship”.
Sophie says -
“As I approached the end of my studies in a Bachelor of Design in Architecture, like many others in my cohort, I began pondering the future. Eager to develop my understanding of the building and construction industry, but craving a change in learning environment, I applied for ABCB’s Cadetship Program.
“I applied for the Cadetship in 2011, initially viewing the program as a ‘gap year’ from completing my undergraduate in architecture. But fastforward two years and I’ve permanently moved to Canberra from Tasmania, have a permanent job with the ABCB and haven’t looked back. The program involves working in the ABCB’s technical teams - Strategic Policy and NCC Development. I obtained a broad, yet in-depth understanding of the NCC as a whole and soon found my niche in the energy efficiency team. In terms of a new workplace the ABCB made for an easy transition, and professional strengths are quickly realised by fantastic management. Being given the opportunity to work with ABCB staff, which have diverse technical backgrounds and professional knowledge they are willing to share, is invaluable to any career in the construction industry. The Cadetship also provides opportunities to interact with the peak technical bodies in Australia. This, combined with enhanced capabilities in applying and interpreting the NCC, definitely puts Cadets ahead of other graduates, and possibly other building industry professionals.
Angela says -
Though moving to a new city was daunting at first, the feeling was brief. I was welcomed by a friendly team of carpenters, plumbers, engineers, building surveyors and architects. In fact, many were former cadets! Having little experience with both the NCC and working within an office environment, the learning curve was steep for the first few months, but the challenge was rewarding. With a supportive team and supervisor, it wasn’t long before I began contributing to major projects. As a cadet, learning is both nurtured and encouraged; working in the technical teams exposed me to the process of building regulatory reform, while personal interests were matched to available projects where possible. From research to considering proposals for change, it’s good to know that your work could contribute to the built environment on a national scale. It often goes unnoticed, but we experience building codes every day - everything in the built environment,
from the height of the stair in your own home to the provision of accessible toilets in a shopping centre - is part of the NCC. Although I have chosen to return to postgraduate study this year, my experience at the ABCB has equipped me with skills and technical knowledge which I am confident are an asset. The in-depth understanding of Australian building codes that I now have will be the foundation of my career as a new practitioner in the building and construction industry”. The ABCB is currently seeking applicants for the 2015 Cadetship Program. Are you ready to take your career to the next level like Sophie and Angela? If you are studying towards, or have qualifications in the following areas, we’d like to hear from you – • Building Certification / Building Surveying • Building / Built Environment • Architecture • Construction Management • Construction Engineering • Plumbing / Hydraulic Design or associated field. Combine your qualifications with the practical experience of an ABCB Cadetship and get ahead with your career. For more information about the Program visit the ABCB website and follow the prompts, or contact Rebecca Hanrahan at Rebecca.Hanrahan@abcb.gov.au or on 02 6276 1854. n
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REGULATORY DEVELOPMENT
REGULATORY IMPACT STATEMENTS: YOUR OPPORTUNITY TO CONSULT The ABCB is committed to developing regulation for the National Construction Code (NCC) in a way that is transparent, accountable and in consultation with industry, the States and Territories and the community. This approach satisfies the ABCB’s obligations under its Inter-Government Agreement to ensure that proposed regulation has a rigorously tested rationale, is effective and proportional to the issues being addressed, and generates the highest net benefits for society. Where a Regulation Impact Statement (RIS) is required, it shall follow the Principles of Best Practice Regulation of the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) and be assessed for its compliance with these principles by the Commonwealth Government’s Office of Best Practice Regulation.
All proposals to amend the NCC are assessed with reference to the COAG Principles of Best Practice Regulation. For minor proposals the required evidence and analysis is at a broad, summary level while a RIS, which assesses substantial impacts, must be thorough. The COAG Principles are: 1. A case for action must be established before addressing the problem. 2. A range of feasible options must be considered. 3. The option that is adopted must generate the greatest net benefit for the community. 4. The adopted option should not restrict competition. 5. Effective guidance should be provided to ensure the policy intent and the expected compliance requirements are clear. 6. Ensure that regulation remains relevant and effective over time. 7. Stakeholders should be consulted effectively during the regulatory process. 8. Government action should be effective and proportional to the issue being addressed.
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The ABCB follows a three-stage approach to assess proposals to amend the NCC: 1) Proposal for Change (PFC); 2) Preliminary Impact Assessment (PIA); and 3) Regulation Impact Statement (RIS). The PFC allows proposals to be suggested by industry, governments or the community. It consists of a template with guidelines that explain a proponent’s impact assessment obligations when proposing a change to the NCC. The proponent is required to provide an explanation of how the proposal is expected to solve an established problem and demonstrate consideration of the potential impacts. The PIA also comprises a template with guidelines but provides for a more detailed early-stage analysis of the costs and benefits associated with a proposal. PIAs are commonly undertaken when a PFC has been accepted. The ABCB works closely with standards-writing bodies such as Standards Australia,
A RIS examines the likely impacts of a proposed regulation, compared with a range of alternative options that could meet government policy objectives. The purpose is to identify an option that can deliver the highest net benefits to the community while still addressing an identified problem. A RIS occurs after the PIA finds a proposal will have substantial impacts. However in cases where it is clear from project initiation that a proposal will have significant impacts, the PIA process will be bypassed and a full RIS undertaken in the first instance. A RIS is undertaken in two stages, consultation and finalisation. The Consultation RIS is used to canvas the regulatory options being considered in order to determine the relative costs and benefits of those options. The Consultation RIS aims to elicit the views from affected parties prior to the
development of the Final RIS for Board consideration. Submissions on the Consultation RIS are encouraged and are able to be submitted through the ABCB website. The Final RIS is then prepared incorporating submissions from stakeholders on the Consultation RIS and updated based on any new information becoming available. Once cleared by the OBPR the Final RIS is sent to the Board for decision. There are several opportunities for stakeholders to comment on a proposal to amend the NCC: • At the PFC stage, where the proponent wishes to demonstrate support and will canvass views of stakeholders known to the proponent. • At the PIA stage, where the proponent and the ABCB will seek to be informed by an appropriately representative and broad group of stakeholders.
• When the proposal is considered by the Building Codes Committee or the Plumbing Code Committee, which comprise representatives from industry and governments, and which provide advice to the ABCB. • At the Public Comment Draft stage of the NCC amendment process, where all members from the community may comment on the proposal.
REGULARTORY DEVELOPMENT
to assist them in meeting the ABCB’s requirements for NCC-referenced documents. If a preliminary analysis finds substantial impacts, the ABCB will consult with the Office of Best Practice Regulation (OBPR) to determine whether a full RIS is necessary.
• For a major proposal, when a Consultation RIS is released for comment from all members of the community. The ABCB believes meaningful consultation can promote trust between industry, the community and government. Transparency allows stakeholders to see and judge the quality of government actions and regulatory decisions. Consultation also provides an opportunity for stakeholders to participate in the development of regulation. The consultation process can lead to the revision and modification of proposed regulation before final decisions are made, delivering better outcomes for all. n
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A STATE PERSPECTIVE
MELBOURNE’S WATER FUTURE Written by Simon Want, Head of Office, Office of Living Victoria Melbourne is at a cross-road in how we plan and manage our water. Melbourne’s water system faces a number of pressures that will increase as a growing population consumes more water and discharges more wastewater. Victoria’s variable climate means that droughts and floods are inevitable – we just don’t know when they will next occur, or how severe they will be. We need to make smart and informed decisions that will ensure a resilient high-quality water supply as well as improved outcomes for our environment, our waterways and our liveability. To do this efficiently and at least cost, we need to continue to build on the innovative whole-of-water-cycle approaches already evident in Victoria’s water sector. We need to value and use the rain that falls on Victoria and the stormwater runoff generated by that rainfall. More water falls on Melbourne than we actually use, even in drought years. Using this water for purposes such as watering our gardens and flushing our toilets will help minimise price rises and avert the need for the construction of additional dams and desalination plants. It will reduce the volume of run-off that pollutes and damages our rivers and improve the health of our waterways and bays. Making greater use of alternative water will reduce urban flooding, enhance our liveability and amenity, and help cement Victoria as a centre of expertise in whole-of-watercycle management – a key capability for the twenty first century.
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Melbourne’s Water Future, the Victorian Government’s urban water reform strategy, is the beginning of a new era in whole-of-water-cycle planning and management. It provides a detailed analysis of all parts of Melbourne’s water cycle and sets the principles for wholeof-water-cycle management in Victoria’s urban centres. This new approach looks at how the different parts of the water cycle work together. All parts of the water cycle – drinking water, rainwater, stormwater (which runs off our hard surfaces), wastewater, groundwater, natural waterways and green open spaces – are connected. It is only by taking a holistic view of water cycle planning and management that the benefits of whole-of-watercycle management can be achieved. Using a whole-of-water-cycle approach will enable different considerations to be applied at household, suburban, and metropolitan scales, better reflecting local conditions and needs. Elements of this approach are already in place. Our communities, businesses and water corporations are already innovating in how they plan and manage the water cycle. Melbourne’s water corporations have a track record in innovation and many of our local councils and planning authorities already design new developments and urban renewal sites from a whole-of-water-cycle management perspective. These efforts are the basis for Melbourne’s reputation as a pioneer in whole-of-water-cycle management. Melbourne’s Water Future seeks to enhance that reputation and provide support and a cohesive approach to continuing this innovation into the future.
One of the key initiatives in Melbourne’s Water Future is to review current regulatory support for local water use. As Melbourne’s households and businesses move towards more diversified local water use, it is critical that our regulatory arrangements keep pace. For this reason, a permanent water saving regime for drinking water has been implemented. This regime outlines a range of measures and restrictions that apply to the use of drinking water at all times, including the requirement for hoses to have trigger nozzles, and limitations on hard surface cleaning. Similarly, the installation of recycled water infrastructure or ‘purple pipes’ in some new residential estates and industrial developments near wastewater treatment plants is already a routine practice in local water planning requirements. Currently, new Class 1 6-star dwellings require the installation of either a solar hot water or rainwater tank. This requirement is an example of where a regulatory adjustment warrants consideration. As this requirement currently stands, there is no way for a developer to know what proportion of houses will opt for rainwater tanks as compared with solar panels. Consequently, developers’ and water corporations’ costs are increased because they need to provide sufficient infrastructure for a full water and energy load, even though this may not ultimately be required. In addition to this uncertainty, local governments are amending their planning schemes with regards to the water cycle creating a more confusing environment for developers.
A STATE PERSPECTIVE
Image courtesy of Office of Living Victoria
The Victorian Government is preparing a cost-benefit analysis to inform future regulatory options and a regulatory impact statement that considers the net community costs and benefits of implementing new controls to improve the water performance of new buildings. Feedback from industry and local councils showed strong support for regulatory change, particularly streamlining of regulation, so long as there was not an overall increase in the number or the complexity of regulation. In line with normal practice, the Victorian Government will only
pursue new regulation if there are significant net social and economic benefits, and the medium-term cost impact on individual water users is neutral or modest. This would be achieved if industry has time to adjust to new efficiency requirements or if the changes result primarily in shortterm adjustment costs. Flexibility in compliance and offsetting any increase in up-front costs for consumers by expected savings will also help to achieve this. These principles and parameters will be applied in any regulatory impact statement process.
Melbourne’s Water Future provides a vision of a smart, resilient water system for a liveable, sustainable and productive Victoria. Its objectives are an integrated and resilient water system, which is planned and managed to support liveable and sustainable communities, protect the environmental health of urban waterways and bays, provide secure water supplies efficiently, protect public health and deliver affordable essential water services. n
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BAF 2013 CONFERENCE SPONSOR
RESEARCH PROVES THAT BRICK PERFORMS BEST Extensive research has proven that brick homes are best in terms of energy efficiency for heating and cooling. Think Brick Australia in collaboration with The University of Newcastle have confirmed that clay bricks produce superior energy efficient sustainable environments for people to live, work and play. The ten year thermal research program that began in 2002 has concluded that cavity brick is Australia’s best building material to achieve optimum energy efficient results. Designers and builders are now assured that their brick developments have the huge advantage of providing occupants with energy efficient buildings and comfortable temperature environments which in turn drastically reduces their utility bills. The key findings of Think Brick’s thermal research are*: • Lightweight buildings perform the worst in all seasons; • Brick veneer performs better than lightweight; • The insulated cavity brick performs the best; • Thermal mass in floors alone is not sufficient to reduce extremes in temperature; and • R-Value is not the sole predictor of thermal performance.
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The research demonstrates the importance of thermal mass in building design. Clay brickwork has high thermal mass. This thermal mass refers to the ability of a material to retain heat energy when exposed to a temperature differential. During winter months, the thermal mass of the brick walls and concrete slabs store heat from the sun and gradually release it later in the day. In summer, a high thermal mass structure reduces the transfer of heat energy as it absorbs the heat from the room. This process is slow and results in a delay called thermal lag. Results confirm that insulated lightweight constructions exhibited greater variations in internal temperature and little thermal lag. This was evident during a heatwave in January 2006 where temperatures soared above 46° Celsius. It demonstrated that the lightweight module spent approximately 8 hours above 30° Celsius while the insulated brick module did not reach 30°Celsius. These results show that although insulated lightweight walls reduce the heat entering the building they do not provide any thermal lag. On the other hand the cavity brick walls delay the maximum temperature to later in the evening validating a better performance.
These findings prove what a lot of us already know; that brick is a natural insulator decreasing the use of artificial heating and cooling. This ultimately reduces the household energy bills and therefore should be highly regarded for its energy efficient results. The full report and summary document, entitled “Energy Efficiency - A Study of the Thermal Performance of Australian Housing,” and the “Sustainability and Energy Efficiency” manual can be downloaded from our website. * Compared to tested lightweight construction. For further information on Think Brick Australia and the full report ‘A Study of the Thermal Performance of Australian Housing’, please go to our website at www.thinkbrick.com.au. n
photo: Think Brick horbury hunt award Winner, McBride Charles Ryan, The Infinity Centre
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DESIGN IN IT
* Compared to tested lightweight construction. See full report ‘A Study of the Thermal Performance of Australian Housing’ at www.thinkbrick.com.au.
BAF 2013 CONFERENCE SPONSOR
CAROMA TOILET SUITES WITH UNIQUE ORBITAL CONNECTOR TECHNOLOGY Caroma has launched the Cameo and Caravelle Easy Height Close Coupled S-trap toilet suites, equipped with the patented Orbital Connector. Ideally when renovating or retrofitting an existing bathroom, the Cameo toilet suite overcomes a common issue with set out compatibility which can limit the range of options available to the renovator or builder when choosing a replacement toilet suite for the bathroom. The unique adjustable Orbital Connector is able to extend a toilet set-out to any position within a 50mm radius, allowing for greater installation flexibility. The addition of the Orbital Connector assists builders and plumbers when installing a toilet suite to existing pipework, by giving them greater flexibility By design, the throughway in the connector is maximised throughout its adjustment range, in order to avoid blockages and siphonage which can occur with other types of connectors. The Cameo toilet suite also incorporates Smartflush water saving technology which achieves a 4-star WELS rating by using only 4.5 litres for a full flush and 3 litres for half flush. With a classic, uncomplicated design, the Cameo toilet suite boasts easy to clean rounded contours and integrates seamlessly into any bathroom. To find out more about the Caroma Cameo Close Coupled Toilet Suite or the Caroma Caravelle Easy Height, please visit www.caroma.com.au n
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UP TO 100 mm ADJUSTMENT
Waste outlet
50mm radius Centreline of Pan and Floor outlet Pan Seal
Orbital™ Connector can be positioned anywhere in a 50mm radius providing a total adjustment of 100mm
REGULAR FEATURES
CONFERENCE AND EVENTS CALENDAR FOR 2014 FEBRUARY 2014 18 February 20 February 25–26 February 28 February
National Construction Code Information Seminar, Canberra ACT Visit: www.abcb.gov.au National Construction Code Information Seminar, Adelaide SA Visit: www.abcb.gov.au National Construction Code Information Seminars, Brisbane QLD Visit: www.abcb.gov.au National Construction Code Information Seminar, Darwin NT Visit: www.abcb.gov.au
MARCH 2014 4-5 March 11 March 18–19 March 18-19 March 24 March 26-27 March
National Construction Code Information Seminars, Perth WA Visit: www.abcb.gov.au World Plumbing Day Visit: www.worldplumbingday.org National Construction Code Information Seminars, Sydney NSW Visit: www.abcb.gov.au Green Cities 2014 - Beyond the baseline, Melbourne VIC Visit: www.greencities.org.au National Construction Code Information Seminar, Hobart TAS Visit: www.abcb.gov.au National Construction Code Information Seminars, Melbourne VIC Visit: www.abcb.gov.au
APRIL 2014 2-4 April 8-10 May 29 April - 1 May
Melbourne Design Build, Melbourne VIC Visit: www.designbuildexpo.com.au National Architecture Conference, Perth WA Visit: www.architecture.com.au/events/national/events Ozwater 14, Brisbane Qld Visit: www.ozwater.org
MAY 2014 1 May 5-7 May 27 May
NCC 2014 Adoption Date Australia & NZ Disaster and Emergency Management Conference - Earth: Rain and Fire, Brisbane QLD Visit: www.anzdmc.com.au Plumbing Supply Forum, Sydney NSW Visit: www.plumbingsupplyforum.com.au
SEPTEMBER 2014 3-6 September Sept/Oct
Construction Materials Industry Conference Building Productivity, Brisbane QLD Visit: www.iceaustralia.com/cmic14 Joint Industry Plumbing Conference, Gold Coast Qld Visit: plumbingconference.com.au
NOVEMBER 2014 12-14 November
Performance Based Codes and Fire Safety Design Methods Conference – Pushing the Boundaries, Brisbane QLD Visit: www.sfs.com.au n
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Main Changes For The 2012 naTional ConsTruCTion Code BULLETIN
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early Childhood eduCaTion & Care
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2013 NCC Seminars
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Main changes for the 2013 National Construction Code
A new Flood Standard for the National Construction Code
A national project to redevelop the building surveying qualifications framework
Transfer of the WaterMark Certification Scheme
Window Barriers – A child safety initiative
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2013
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Slip resistance in the National Construction Code
Weather or not condensation is a risk
11/02/13 9:20 AM