The BCA: A performance document

The Building Code of Australia (BCA) is referred to as a ‘performance based’ document that provides flexibility when designing a building. But what does this degree of flexibility mean for those designing and constructing buildings and how can this be utilised in a practical sense?

The flexibility allowed under the BCA means that you are not ‘locked in’ to a specific construction method and can achieve compliance in several ways. The BCA allows for a number of methods to achieve a building solution providing the method adopted complies with the performance provisions set out for each aspect of the design.

The performance provisions state how a building must achieve minimum standards in relation to such things as the structure, damp and weatherproofing, fire safety, health and amenity, safe movement and access and energy efficiency.

The objectives of the BCA must also be considered; the primary objective being to safeguard people and occupants from injury and illness, and also consider damage to other property.

Option 1 – Deemed to satisfy

The most common method to achieve a building solution is to adopt the ‘deemed to satisfy’ provisions in the BCA. This gives you the option of adopting either the ‘acceptable construction practice’ which is the technical information contained in the BCA or using an ‘acceptable construction manual’ where provided, which are generally referenced Australian Standards.

Using either one of these ‘deemed to satisfy’ methods will guarantee compliance with building regulations but a building solution can also be achieved by other means, using the performance provisions.

If a method not consistent with either the acceptable construction practice or the acceptable construction manual then it can be devised and shown to comply with the relevant performance provisions. This method, known as an ‘alternative solution, is permitted to achieve compliance.

Option 2 – Alternative solutions

If you wish to use an ‘alternative solution’ then evidence must be supplied to support the design, which shows how the use of a material or form of construction will meet the BCA performance requirements.

To determine this, there are a variety of assessment methods which can be used. These include:

• providing evidence such as a report from a registered testing authority,
• a certificate from a registered engineer or
• a current certificate of conformity or accreditation that may be issued by the appropriate authority.

Verification can also be achieved by a test, calculation or inspection; this may be the case on site where the relevant building surveyor may pass a form of construction or method that does not strictly comply with the BCA but in his or her opinion will satisfy the intent of the regulations.

For further information HIA members can contact HIA’s Building Services staff on 1300 650 620 or hia_technical@hia.com.au.   

If you would like to become a HIA member, contact 1300 650 620 or enquiry@hia.com.au

Ref No. NAT BCA 08-16

The above is intended to provide general information in summary form. The contents do not constitute specific advice and should not be relied upon as such. Formal specific advice should be sought by members with respect to particular matters before taking action.  ABN 99 004 631 752