Codemarks Certificates and the Performance Solution Process of the NCC 2022

In an era where building standards are evolving rapidly, keeping up with regulatory requirements is paramount for construction professionals. The National Construction Code (NCC) 2022 introduces provisions that emphasise the need for stringent documentation and validation of Performance Solutions. As building surveyors, understanding the intersection between CodeMark Australia Certificates of Conformity (CodeMark Certificates) and NCC provision A2G2(4) is essential for ensuring compliance and enhancing the credibility of building projects.

The Role of NCC Provision A2G2(4)

Effective from 1 July 2021, NCC provision A2G2(4) delineates the formal process and documentation requirements for developing Performance Solutions. Central to this process is the preparation of a Performance-Based Design Brief (PBDB). This brief serves as a cornerstone for outlining the objectives, compliance criteria, and methodologies employed in the design and assessment of Performance Solutions. It’s a critical step to ensure that Performance Solutions align with the Performance Requirements of the NCC.

The Performance Solution Process

To further understand the requirements of NCC 2022, let’s delve into the Performance Solution process as outlined in the “NCC 2022- Performance Solution Process Handbook.” The process is crucial for developing a Performance Solution that meets all relevant Performance Requirements and involves the following steps:

1. Prepare a Performance-Based Design Brief (PBDB): The PBDB is the first step and involves scoping the proposed solution, communicating with key stakeholders, documenting relevant data, and obtaining stakeholders’ agreement on the brief.
2. Carry Out Analysis: This step involves performing analysis as proposed in the PBDB. The analysis should be thorough and consider all relevant Performance Requirements.
3. Evaluate Results: Evaluate the analysis results against the acceptance criteria outlined in the PBDB. This ensures that the proposed solution meets the necessary Performance Requirements.
4. Prepare a Final Report: The final report documents the entire process, including all Performance Requirements, assessment methods used, analysis steps, evaluation results, and confirmation that the Performance Requirements have been met. It also includes any conditions or limitations regarding the Performance Solution.

Relationship Between A2G2(4) and A2G3 of the NCC 2022

Clause A2G3 of the NCC 2022 addresses the assessment of DTS Solutions and the approach when a combination of DTS and Performance Solutions are used. A Performance Solution must be shown to comply with the relevant Performance Requirements through one or a combination of Assessment Methods, such as Evidence of Suitability, Verification Methods, Expert Judgment, or Comparison with the DTS Provisions.

When using a CodeMark Certificate as part of a Performance Solution, it is essential to understand that the certificate provides a level of assurance but may not address all Performance Requirements. Therefore, the Performance Solution process, as outlined in A2G2(4), must be followed meticulously to ensure comprehensive compliance.

Steps for Construction Practitioners Using CodeMark Certificates

1. Validate the CodeMark Certificate: First and foremost, ensure the CodeMark Certificate for the proposed building product or system is valid. The JAS-ANZ website maintains a register of all valid CodeMark Certificates. This step is foundational to establishing the legitimacy of the certification. Refer to https://register.jasanz.org/certified-organisations
2. Verify Coverage of Relevant Performance Requirements: Examine the CodeMark Certificate to confirm it certifies the building product or system against all relevant Performance Requirements for the intended use within the specific project. Not all certificates may cover every aspect, so this verification is essential.
3. Address Uncovered Performance Requirements: If there are Performance Requirements that the CodeMark Certificate does not cover, undertake the process outlined in A2G2(4). This involves referencing the CodeMark Certificate and considering the holistic application of the product or system in the project. This step ensures that all bases are covered, and no compliance gaps remain.
4. Review Limitations and Exclusions: Scrutinise any limitations or exclusions specified in the CodeMark Certificate. Ensure these do not conflict with the proposed use of the building product or system in the project. This preemptive check can prevent compliance issues down the line.
5. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: Stay informed about updates to the CodeMark Australia Certification Scheme and NCC provisions. Regularly visit the scheme’s website and other authoritative sources for the latest information and updates. This ongoing education is vital for staying ahead in the ever-evolving field of building compliance.

Understanding the CodeMark Australia Certification Scheme

The CodeMark Australia Certification Scheme is a voluntary certification program aimed at verifying that building products or systems meet the requirements of the Building Code of Australia (BCA). A CodeMark Certificate can attest to compliance with relevant Performance Requirements, either through Deemed-to-Satisfy (DTS) Provisions, Performance Solutions, or a combination of both.

One of the pivotal aspects of the CodeMark Scheme is its alignment with the process set out in A2G2(4). The Conformity Body issuing the CodeMark Certificate undertakes an assessment process that mirrors the rigour of A2G2(4). Consequently, when a construction practitioner relies on a CodeMark Certificate to demonstrate that a Performance Solution complies with the NCC’s Performance Requirements, there is no need to redo the process in A2G2(4). This provides a streamlined path to compliance, saving both time and resources.

However, it’s crucial to recognise that a CodeMark Certificate may not cover all the Performance Requirements relevant to a particular project. In such cases, additional steps must be taken to ensure comprehensive compliance.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complex Landscape

The relationship between CodeMark Certificates and NCC provision A2G2(4) underscores the need for a thorough, informed approach to compliance in building projects. For building surveyors, this means not only relying on certifications but also engaging in a meticulous process of validation and documentation. As we continue to navigate the complex landscape of building codes and standards, the principles of due diligence, continuous learning, and proactive problem-solving remain our guiding stars.

By embracing these practices, we can ensure that our projects meet the highest standards of safety, performance, and compliance, ultimately contributing to the integrity and quality of the built environment.