S t e c h n i c a l
TECHNICAL COMMITTEE REPORT
RUSSELL HARRIS Technical Manager, AWA
The AWA Technical Committee recently held its third meeting for the year, coinciding with AusFenEx16 on the Gold Coast. The committee is busy with a range of standards currently under review as well as several exciting initiatives going forward. If you have any items of interest or issues you would like the committee to discuss, contact technical @ awa. org. au
AUSTRALIAN STANDARDS UNDER REVIEW
There are a number of standards currently under review, with several recently progressing through the public comment phase.
• AS / NZS 4420.1 Windows, External Glazed, Timber and Composite Doors- Methods of Test replaces the current standard Parts 0-6. The new standard named Part 1 will be designated as an AS / NZS joint standard. The public comment period has closed and the standard will go to ballot this year.
• AS 4420.2 Protection of Openable Windows / Fall Prevention – Methods of Test is a new standard being introduced to address testing methods for windows fitted with fall prevention devices or screens, based largely on the current ICP. 005 developed by the AWA. The public comment period has closed and the standard is likely to go to ballot this year.
• AS 4420.3 Window and Door Acoustics – Methods of Test is nearing completion as a draft standard and is likely to be opened for public comment this year.
• AS 2688 Timber and Composite Doors is being revised to incorporate a number of older standards covering selection, identification, installation, finishing, maintenance and performance of timber and composite doors and door-sets in both internal and external applications.
• AS 3959 Construction of Building in Bushfire Prone Areas is currently being re-written. There is no intent to increase the performance levels of the existing BALs. The objective of the revision is to reformat the standard into tables for easier use. Drafting is nearing completion and it is expected to be released for public comment later this year.
ACOUSTIC TESTING
The AWA Technical Committee, in conjunction with the CSIRO, have put together a proposal for joint industry acoustic testing to be undertaken in October / November this year. The AWA is currently seeking expressions of interest from members who may wish to participate. The proposal was recently circulated to all members, but if you missed a copy, or would like more information, please email technical @ awa. org. au
INSTALLATION PROJECT
Filming has been completed and the videos are now in the final stages of editing. The Technical Committee is undertaking a review of the installation manual and will commence shortly with a major re-write of this important document. Several improvements are planned, including three-dimensional drawings to assist with understanding the flashing and weatherproofing requirements, methodologies to assist builders in determining what measures are appropriate for various building types and locations, and specific information on a wide range of issues affecting window installation.
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34 Australian Window Association