In Masterspec NOTES June 2024, we provided commentary around the changes to the NZ Building Code relating to domestic smoke alarms.
From November 2023 the Building Code Acceptable Solutions for Protection from Fire (C/AS1 and C/AS2) have been amended to make Type 1 interconnected smoke alarms the minimum fire safety system for new built homes and substantial renovations, citing NZS 4514:2021 – Interconnected smoke alarms for Houses.
The changes are subject to a 12-month transition period ending on 01 November 2024. Until then designers and builders can choose to use either the new documents or the previous version to demonstrate compliance with the Building Code and where building consent applications will be submitted prior to the end of the transition period.
New Masterspec Generic Section
June 2024 NOTES were supported by the publishing of a new generic work section to assist designers with the specification of these new systems.
7352 Type 1 Domestic Smoke Alarm System
The section details requirements for installation, maintenance, and commissioning of interconnected domestic smoke alarm systems, and includes information on power supply (batteries, wiring etc.) and any heat alarms or sensory stimulation devices that may need to be incorporated into the system.
Since June, designers have used the new template section 80 times. We have also had significant interest from alarm manufacturers/ suppliers in providing specific product sections to deliver comprehensive project specific solutions to our specifiers.
Suggested Next Moves for Designers
Understand the new requirements detailed in the amended NZBC Clause C Protection from Fire in relation to Type 1 Interconnected Smoke Alarms for new built homes and substantial renovations.
Have a detailed look at the cited standard NZS 4514:2021 – Interconnected smoke alarms for Houses. The standard is sponsored by MBIE and free to access. The standard is very prescriptive on what is required and where!
Determine the type of interconnecting system that best suits your project- new built homes and substantial renovations. Understand the likely cost of the system selected and incorporate it as early as possible into the cost plan and to inform your Client.
Remember the changes are subject to a 12-month transition period ending on 01 November 2024. Until then designers and builders can choose to use either the new documents or the previous version to demonstrate compliance with the Building Code and where building consent applications will be submitted prior to the end of the transition period.
For further details, click here to refer to the previous article in NOTES.