codewords 35 - March 2009

what's inside

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Download Codewords 35 [PDF 351 KB, 8 pages]

Learning curve

BRANZ Seminar

'Compliance paths - getting alternative solutions consented'

BRANZ Research and helpdesk enquiries have revealed that designers and building consent authority staff need to clearly understand the range of options available to show Code compliance for consent documents that are outside the scope of an Acceptable Solution.

While the research was specific to renovation projects, a number of designers interviewed said obtaining approval for alternative solutions for all types of projects is one of their biggest causes of frustration. The reason is that the designer and the building control officials are often unsure of how to approach the submission and assessment of alternative solutions.

This seminar on compliance paths for consenting alternative solutions will address:

what constitutes an alternative solution; in effect, almost all consents are in part alternative solutions
how compliance can be demonstrated; what are the paths to follow, and options for presenting an alternative solution to the BCA
the level of detail and supporting information required
the use of testing, comparison with Acceptable Solutions, expert opinion, product certification and producer statements in support of compliance
options to follow when using past in-service history to show compliance with current Code requirements
options for assessing an alternative solution when received.

Having designers and BCA officers understand the same rationales for dealing with alternative solutions should significantly ease the concerns raised.

Audience: A must for builders, designers,architects, and building consent officials

Presenters: Greg Burn, NZCD (Arch) - Building Consultant, Structure Limited Des Molloy - Building Consultant (BRANZ Builder's Mate 'Old Geezer')

CPD Points: 3 points

Investment: Seminar ONLY $85.00

Location	Date
Dunedin Otago Museum	Monday 4 May
Queenstown Copthorne Hotel & Resort	Tuesday 5 May
Christchurch The Heritage Hotel	Wednesday 6 May
Wellington Wellington Town Hall	Thursday 7 May
Auckland The Heritage Hotel	Monday 11 May
Hamilton The Waikato Stadium	Tuesday 12 May
Palmerston North The Coachman Hotel	Wednesday 13 May

Registration: Register online at www.branz.co.nzand go to seminars; or email: SeminarRegistrations@branz.co.nz

Barrier Free NZ Trust

The Barrier Free NZ Trust aims to encourage and promote environments that are accessible and usable by everyone, including people with disabilities. Through training and education, providing technical advice, and overseeing the display of the International Symbol of Access (ISA), the Trust has established itself as a 'first port of call' for accessibility advice and information.

Our two-day seminar is divided into four Modules: Experience of the Accessible Journey, The Law, Design, and Assessment.

The Module 5 seminar is for people who would like to further their training to become a Barrier Free Advisor. Participants will learn in depth, how to give advice when they audit buildings or plans for access.
The Department of Building and Housing recognises the two-day seminar for the Licensed Building Practitioner Scheme (LBP). LBPs gain Skills Maintenance points for attending our training modules. The seminar is also recognised for Continued Professional Development Points by the NZ Institute of Architects (NZIA) and the Building Officials Institute NZ (BOINZ).

Upcoming Barrier Free NZ Trust Seminar Dates:

2-day Seminar (Module 1-4):

Location	Date
Invercargill	30-31 March 2009
Wellington	31 March–1 April 2009
Christchurch	5-6 May 2009
Rotorua	16-17 June 2009
Hamilton	11-12 August 2009
Auckland	15-16 September 2009
Wellington	14-15 October 2009
Christchurch	17-18 November 2009

Module 5

Location	Date
Auckland	29 April 2009
Wellington	20 August 2009
Location TBC	26 November 2009