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Explore how Brevity is leading a smarter approach to seismic anchors in interiors engineering—balancing compliance, cost-efficiency, and resilience through ER95 and targeted design.

Designing interiors for educational facilities in New Zealand requires a precise balance between safety, functionality, and compliance with Ministry of Education (MoE) regulations. From seismic resilience and fire safety to acoustic performance and durability, each element must be meticulously planned to create learning environments that are both adaptable and resilient. Missteps in detailing seismic gaps, ceiling systems, or service coordination can lead to costly rework and non-compliance. At Brevity, we simplify this complexity, guiding clients through a structured approach that ensures educational spaces are safe, efficient, and future-proof.

Mastering AI-assisted development unlocks the potential to rapidly create complex tools, like a custom SketchUp extension, while redefining the boundaries of software development for technical professionals.

Two key documents, the AWCI Code of Practice for Suspended Ceilings and the BIP Code of Practice for the Seismic Performance of Non-Structural Elements, have set a new benchmark for seismic resilience in building design. The AWCI CoP focuses on practical, updated guidance for suspended ceilings, integrating innovations like hybrid "fixed and floating" systems and expanded suspension options, while the BIP NSE CoP takes a holistic approach, addressing all non-structural elements and introducing concepts like Damage Control Limit State (DCLS). Together, these codes provide the clarity and tools needed to enhance safety, reduce costs, and build a more resilient industry.

Managing seismic safety in building projects can be complex, especially when dealing with both new and existing fit-outs. Project managers need to understand the distinction between seismic ratings for existing buildings and seismic design requirements under the New Zealand Building Code (NZBC) for new works. This guide helps navigate these complexities, ensuring compliance while balancing client expectations and maintaining seismic integrity.

What are the key updates to the 2024 AWCI Code of Practice for suspended ceilings? As discussed by Matt Bishop and Gye Simkin in a recent webinar, learn about the new design process flowchart, fixed sheet materials, and how project importance levels affect ceiling design. These updates aim to streamline contractor and engineer collaboration, improving safety and efficiency in commercial interiors.

When outsourcing steel production overseas, ensuring material quality can be a challenge, and relying on mill certificates alone might not be enough. Hardness testing offers a simple, cost-effective way to verify steel strength. Using tools like the Leeb hardness tester allows suppliers to perform quick checks and flag potential issues before moving forward. While hardness is a strong indicator of tensile strength, it's best viewed as a "gateway" test. If results don't align with the supplier's claims, it's a signal that more thorough testing is needed to ensure safety and quality.

Brevity has been a key partner to STACKIT for many years, united by a shared passion for engineering, ingenuity, and innovation for racking and shelving.

Brevity was engaged by TSA Management to provide a wide array of non-structural seismic design throughout the Airport Transport Hub structure.

The following webinars cover topics from seismic restraint compliance, updates to industry standards and new ways of working.

Starting at Brevity in a Business Development Coordinator role, Rebecca’s skills have quickly enabled her to grow her role and contribute to the team in a range of ways. Now responsible for ‘inbound sales’ her daily work encompasses the preparation of client briefs as well as contributing to project coordination.

Siamak Mosaferi grew up along the Persian Gulf of Iran and as a result, loves anything to do with the ocean. Arriving in New Zealand with his wife just over a decade ago, he had limited English and almost no contacts. He found himself as a lifeguard at many of Auckland’s most well known pools - Parnell Baths being his favourite.

Waikeria prison redevelopment is a pivotal project for New Zealand and Brevity is proud to have played a key role in this significant national effort, contributing our expertise to ensure the highest standards of safety and design.

Bernadine’s enthusiasm for her work and the loyalty and trust she has developed amongst those she works with have made her a rock within the Brevity team.

In our latest webinar, we discussed the newly drafted Technical Specification TS 1170.5, which brings significant updates to earthquake design actions for commercial interiors. This innovative standard aims to incorporate recent seismic findings and offers a flexible approach for testing its commercial viability before formal integration into the building code. Key insights were shared by Matt Bishop, highlighting the impact on interiors engineering and seismic restraint design, particularly in high-risk areas like Wellington.