Publications update
Consultation on proposed amendments to building code clause F6 lighting for emergency
The Department of Building and Housing is seeking feedback on proposed amendments to New Zealand Building Code Clause F6 Lighting for Emergency and its Compliance Document.
The proposed changes are designed to make the performance requirements in the Building Code clearer and provide more scope for alternative solutions to be developed, while continuing to provide adequate lighting within the escape routes of buildings in the event of an emergency.
The Department is now seeking public comment before finalising amendments. We invite all interested parties to review the consultation document and to make submissions.
Interested stakeholders have been sent a hard copy of the document. The closing date for submitting comments on the proposed changes is 22 September 2005.
If you want to make a submission and have not received a copy of the consultation document, you can download a PDF from the Department's website www.dbh.govt.nz or 0800 242 243 for a hard copy.
Grade 500E steel releases
As part of the joint Australian/New Zealand Standards initiative the joint Standard for reinforcing steel, AS/NZS 4671, was adopted in 2001. This Standard introduced a new high tensile steel, Grade 500E, to replace Grade 430E.
Concerns were raised in 2003 that Grade 500E reinforcing steel might not be fit for its purpose as reinforcing when subject to design earthquake loading in ductile reinforced concrete structures.
The Department responded by investigating the concerns and the detailed issues behind them. The following is now available
If you would like a hard copy, please call the Department on 0800 242 243 to obtain one.
- A Wall Chart is also available as a quick site guide to use of Grade 500E and other reinforcing available in New Zealand.
Bendometers, which are a set of plastic discs to enable site checking of bar bending diameters, will also be available soon.
For more information on all these releases, contact the Department on 0800 242 243, or visit our website at www.dbh.govt.nz
Where to get compliance documents
Victoria University Bookcentre is pleased to be associated with the Department of Building and Housing. We supply the Department's Compliance Documents in hard copy, CD-ROM or PDF (internet) format, as well as the Building Act and Building Regulations which include the Building Code. We can also source technical and general books on your behalf.
Victoria University Bookcentre
Gate 1, Student Union Building
1 Kelburn Parade
PO Box 12337
Wellington
Website: www.vicbooks.co.nz
Email: sam.stanley@vicbooks.co.nz
Freephone 0800 370 370