National Construction Code Needs Quantified Structural and Fire Performance Requirements

Quantified Structural Performance 

In 2016 and 2019, the National Construction Code (NCC) was modified to introduce a rational verification method for the structural assessment of performance solutions for building components. This was essential to assist the adoption of new and innovative building products and systems. But the task is not yet complete. 

To ensure equity, and to close a glaring loophole, the verification method must be supported by quantified structural performance requirements. These were scheduled for adoption in May 2022, then delayed to 2025, and now will not be considered until 2029. Even then, there is no guarantee that these essential quantified structural performance requirements will not be opposed by organisations who neither understand them, nor use them. 

Without these quantified structural performance requirements, suppliers of new and innovative building products will be subject to endless legal argument amongst a bevy of lawyers and so-called experts, arguing over what is meant by structural safety.

Quantified Fire Performance 

Similar to the structural situation, there is no rational regulated quantified definition of suitable fire performance. 

Instead, the building industry is saddled with a series of expensive test methods, without a coherent means of assessing the effects on real structures subject to fire. 

The result is an assortment of unrelated Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) solutions. For example, certain medium rise timber framed buildings have DTS status under the current NCC rather than requiring consideration under a more thorough Performance Solution pathway. 

Reform is required now

This situation is substantially due to the failure of the Australian Building Codes Board (under the influence of some industry groups) to continue a moderate program of quantification of structural and fire performance requirements. 

These reforms have already been delayed too long, and the current pause will only serve to INCREASE (not decrease) costs of introducing new products and technology.