Barrier And Balustrade Testing

The importance of testing balustrade barriers cannot be overstated. Balustrades serve as critical safety features, both inside and outside buildings, primarily designed to prevent people from falling from heights exceeding one metre. These safety standards are outlined in the National Construction Code (NCC), the Australian Standard AS 1170-1 (Structural Design Actions Parts 0, 1 and 2) and AS 1288 (Glass in Buildings) for glass barriers and balustrades. Testing plays a pivotal role as the fundamental engineering qualification that provides proof of compliance with regulatory requirements.

When a balustrade undergoes testing, it provides assurance that it is fit for its intended purpose. Testing ensures that the product meets the necessary Standards and performs as expected. This level of confidence is essential for balustrade installers as it guarantees that their installations will effectively prevent falls from heights. It is crucial to ensure that balustrades are fit for purpose, especially in scenarios where they protect common areas in building complexes. These areas often require higher levels of protection due to potential increased forces caused by crowding. The Australian Standard AS 1170-1 addresses these considerations by quantifying the performance level forces that balustrades must meet in all locations within a building.

To determine the fitness of a balustrade for its intended purpose, evidence must be provided. This evidence may include test reports or technical data, provided by the balustrade provider, obtained from a NATAaccredited testing facility. Having access to such documentation provides peace of mind to builders, certifiers, and residents, assuring them that they have a compliant product that effectively safeguards against falls. By relying on tested and verified balustrades, stakeholders can trust that they are providing a safe environment for occupants while complying with relevant Regulations.

Bespoke balustrade designs require specific attention when it comes to testing. It is imperative to conduct type testing on a project-by-project basis to demonstrate compliance and support engineering calculations. Azuma Design, a reputable provider, offers NATA-endorsed testing services to the highest standards. Clients often engage them to test bespoke balustrades beyond the minimum requirements stipulated by the NCC. For instance, Azuma Design has conducted specialised tests involving extreme heat on glass balustrades to ensure their ability to withstand local climate conditions. They have also tested balustrades under varying levels of destruction to ensure their effectiveness even in a broken state, particularly in heavily populated areas.

In conclusion, testing balustrade barriers is of utmost importance. By prioritising comprehensive testing, builders, certifiers, and residents can have confidence in the safety and compliance of the balustrades in their buildings. Testing ensures that balustrades are fit for purpose, providing robust protection against falls from heights. It is a proactive approach to prioritise safety, compliance, and peace of mind for all building occupants.