2019 ABCB Code Review - Key Changes by Fairview Architectural

Fairview Architectural's Technical Manager, Ashley How, describes the five critical decisions based on the recently published key changes to the 2019 edition of the NCC, as reviewed by the Australian Building Codes Board, that every major industry specifier should be aware of:

1. Bonded laminates clause: The deemed-to-satisfy non-combustible clause C1.9(e)(vi) for bonded laminate materials will continue in the NCC 2019. What this means for products like Fairview's best-selling aluminium-core Vitracore G2, is that it maintains its non-combustible and multiple paths to compliance status.
2. Fire safety: Sprinklers are to be mandated for class 2 & 3 buildings (apartment/residential) four-storeys and over. Before, sprinklers were only required for buildings greater than 25m. Furthermore, issues of inconsistent fire engineering are aiming to be addressed through a new and slightly controversial verification method for fire engineering solutions. It is likely that the recommendations of the Shergold Weir report about system performance have been considered by the ABCB.
3. Condensation management: Having considered occupant comfort and to promote health, building systems, including cladding systems, should be mould-inhibiting. Mould and dampness due to condensation have been identified as a threat to resident welfare, which the new Code is taking steps to address. However, this should not be confused with existing water ingress requirements.
4. Energy efficiency: A package of measures around improving energy efficiency in commercial buildings has been included, with the potential to create a significant 35% reduction in energy consumption. In addition, new VMs will be introduced to demonstrate compliance by way of NABERS and Green Star accreditation to the relevant Performance Requirements.
5. Code clarity & readability: The new code's layout and structure have been commissioned to enhance its readability and interpretation, including quantifying 40% of the Codes performance requirements - either in the performance requirement or verification methods. The aim of the revised layout is to improve comprehension and applicability of all relevant Code clauses, conditions and compliance requirements, minimising misinterpretation.

We would like to extend our congratulations and respect to the ABCB and those who participated in this much-anticipated review.

Get in touch with Fairview Architectural to learn more about the new changes to the 2019 ABCR Code Review by visiting www.fv.com.au.