*ARCHIVE* - No 4. E2/B2 review: release date for draft 2 May 2003

Update on B2 and E2 review process

The BIA's proposed changes to the B2 and E2 Approved Documents will now be released for consultation as early as possible in June.

The BIA had intended to publish proposed changes to B2 and E2 for consultation by late April. However, as it is still considering a number of matters, the timeline has been extended.

One of the matters under consideration in relation to B2 is the Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA) report into the health concerns surrounding CCA treated timber. The report was released this afternoon and the BIA is considering its findings.

The BIA will draw on the findings of the ERMA report in making any recommendations regarding CCA treated timber. The BIA has signalled a likely move toward a greater use of treated timber under the B2 Acceptable Solution.

Before finalising proposed changes to both B2 and E2, the BIA will complete a cost-benefit analysis of the impacts of the proposals, particularly with regard to consumers and industry.

An eight-week consultation period will follow the release of the BIA's proposals, allowing consumers, the timber and building industries and other interested parties to submit their views, which will be taken into account before a final decision is made.

Once released, the proposals will be available on the BIA website www.dbh.govt.nz. Alternatively, they may be obtained by contacting the BIA on: bia@bia.govt.nz, 0800 242 243 or 04 471 0794.