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While both Australia and New Zealand adhere to similar fall protection standards, their approaches to enforcement and certification differ significantly. In New Zealand, independent third-party certification is a standard requirement, ensuring systems are verified from design (PS1) to final inspection (PS4). In contrast, Australia often relies on manufacturers' guidelines without the same level of oversight. This article explores why New Zealand takes a more rigorous approach to fall arrest compliance, the risks of minimal certification, and why elevating Australian practices could reduce liability and improve safety outcomes across the industry.

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.

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.

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

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.

In the latest installment of Team Brevity's technical webinar series, we delved into the critical topic of seismic assessment for existing non-structural elements in commercial interiors. The webinar, held on March 7, 2024, featured insights from our professional engineer, Suryaraj Salunkhe, and was led by our new business lead, Gye Simkin.

In the event of an earthquake, the seismic design of racking aims to reduce the risk of collapse or damage to the system, with the aim of protecting people, property damage and business disruptions.

Brevity engineer Dan Bulbridge, has been working hard to ensure the safety and stability of the aluminium framed Christchurch Christmas tree.

Dive into the essential updates to the AS 4084:2023 standard, guiding steel storage racking systems, with our comprehensive webinar. Join industry experts Gye Simkin and SIA Senior Engineer as they unravel the latest changes and what they mean for the design, operation, and maintenance of racking structures. Discover the impact on load capacities, seismic load calculations, and the new operational guidelines set to enhance safety and efficiency. If you're a professional in the racking industry, this session is pivotal to ensuring your systems are compliant and up-to-date.

This webinar examines the growing need for C2 rated seismic anchors in New Zealand's commercial interiors due to new regulations. While these anchors enhance safety and compliance, they also pose challenges in terms of cost and installation.

During an earthquake, the weight of a suspended ceiling needs to be transferred back into the structure above. This is achieved through bracing systems which are designed to ensure the safety and stability of the ceiling, protecting it from potential collapse or damage caused by the shaking and movement of the ground.