t e c h n i c a l
technical committee report
russell harris Technical Manager, AWA
It has been a busy start to the year for the AWA Technical Committee with a number of standards under review and several going to public comment recently.
The Technical Committee has a renewed focus this year on publishing regular updates and developing key messages in an effort to better communicate changes and issues which affect our industry.
If you have any items of interest or issues you would like the committee to discuss, please contact technical @ awa. org. au and submit your request.
Draft Standards released for public comment
The following draft standards have been released for public comment. The AWA will be submitting a response to Standards
Australia on behalf of all members, and comments are requested by 16 June for inclusion. Copies of the draft standards can be downloaded free from the SAI Global website: http:// infostore. saiglobal. com / store / default. aspx? SearchType = draft
• AS / NZS 4420.1 Windows- Methods of Test Part 1: Test Sequence, Sampling and Test Methods replaces the current standard parts 0-6 which have been incorporated into one standard named Part 1 and designated as an AS / NZS standard.
• AS 4420.2 Windows- Methods of Test Part 2: Openable Windows- Window Full Barrier Test and Force 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.
• AS 2688 Timber and Composite Doors is a new standard covering selection, identification, installation, finishing and maintenance of timber and composite doors and doorsets for internal and external applications.
Amendments to Standards
AS 1288 Glass in Buildings- Selection and Installation Amendment 3 has been published. Changes include all references to BCA being replaced with NCC, and
Appendix A- Simplified Method For Determining Ultimate and Serviceability Limit State Wind Pressures has been updated. A copy of this latest amendment can be downloaded free from the SAI Global website: http:// infostore. saiglobal. com / store / default. aspx? SearchType = amendment
Standards under Review
AS 3959 Construction of Building in Bushfire Prone Areas is currently being re-written in table format for easier use. Whilst there will be some minor changes to the technical content and current BALs, they are not considered to adversely impact our industry. The drafting of this revision is nearing completion and it is expected to be released for public comment in the second half of this year.
Key Messages
In response to changes to Australian Standards and the National Construction Code, the AWA Technical Committee has recently published four new Key Messages:
• Corner Windows
• Guide to Housing
• Fall Prevention
• Exposed Sites
AWA Key Messages are available for free download from our website, www. awa. org. au
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32 Australian Window Association