Building Code of Australia Assessment Methods
Performance Solutions are assessed using structured, evidence-based methods to demonstrate compliance with NCC/BCA Performance Requirements. This is done in accordance with the NCC/BCA. This ensures compliance with the relevant Performance Requirements.
These methods provide an evidence-based framework to demonstrate compliance, supporting approval by building surveyors, certifiers and relevant authorities.
Our methodology is structured to support approval by certifiers and relevant authorities, with less change of delays and RFIs.
The Assessment Method for a Performance Solution may include any of the following, or a combination of each:
Evidence of Suitability
Evidence of Suitability may include:
- A report from a Registered Testing Authority.
- A current Certificate of Conformity or Certificate of Accreditation.
- A certificate from a professional engineer or another appropriately qualified person which:
- certifies that a material, design, or form of construction complies with the requirements of the BCA; and
- It sets out the basis on which it is given. It also details the extent to which relevant specifications, rules, codes of practice, or other publications have been relied upon.
- A current certificate comes from a product certification body. The body must be accredited by the Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand (JAS-ANZ).
- Any other form of documentary evidence that adequately demonstrates suitability for use.
Verification Methods
Verification Methods typically include:
- Calculations – using analytical methods or mathematical models; and/or
- Tests involve using a technical operation either on-site or in a laboratory. This is done to directly measure one or more performance criteria for a given solution.
Comparison with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions
This method allows a comparison to be made between a ‘Deemed-to-Satisfy’ provision and a proposed Building Solution.
The performance assessment must find that the proposed building solution matches an ‘equivalent’. Then, it can be deemed to meet the relevant Performance Requirement. If it exceeds a ‘Deemed-to-Satisfy’ provision, then it can also be deemed to meet the requirement.
Expert Judgement
When you can’t test or model physical criteria by calculation, the opinion of a technical expert may be accepted. This is referred to as the use of Expert Judgement. It involves the judgement of a person who has the necessary qualifications and experience. This expert determines whether a Building Solution complies with the Performance Requirements.
Confidence in Access Central
Access Central applies appropriate Assessment Methods. These methods are based on the specific project conditions. This ensures Performance Solutions are structured, defensible and aligned with certification requirements.
Access Central generally use a combination of Expert Judgement and Comparisons to the Deemed-to-Satisfy provisions to prepare Performance Solution Reports. We have prepared complex reports for various types of buildings. These include hospitality, healthcare, and transport buildings. We also cover accommodation, office fitouts, retail centres, warehousing, and factories.
The appropriate selection and application of Assessment Methods is critical to achieving a compliant and defensible Performance Solution. Access Central will ensure that the assessment is completed thoroughly. It will be compliant, protecting project stakeholders. If challenged, a Performance Solution Report will hold up to scrutiny by authorities.