AS 1926.1 is the primary standard for safety barriers across Australia. The National Construction Code (NCC) relies on this Standard as the DtS requirements for all safety barriers. However from time to time, a safety barrier may not be able to meet all of these requirements, meaning a performance solution must be provided to the building certifier.
While the NCC includes guidance on how to undertake a performance solution, it was considered appropriate to offer specific guidance in this standard. The NCC Performance Solution Process Handbook provides detailed guidance on how to prepare performance solutions for large scale, complex projects, however it is not always appropriate for smaller projects or for simple variations.
The new supplement is aimed at providing a simple and agreed framework for designers and certifiers to develop and assess a performance solution for a swimming pool barrier and show how the variation still meets the requirements of the NCC.
As part of the building approval application, a performance solution must be used where any part of a safety barrier does not meet the Deemed-to-Satisfy (DtS) requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC), being AS 1926.1.
A performance solution must show that the design is at least equivalent, if not better, than the safety that would be achieved using the DtS provisions. The safety barrier designer is generally responsible for the preparation of the performance solution, as part of the approval process. However it will depend on who is responsible for preparing the approval plans and application.
The builder surveyor/certifier is responsible for approving the performance solution and not for designing the barrier.
The Supplement supports disciplined, evidence-based analysis of a variation. It sets out a clear method to identify the non-conforming clauses, define their safety intent (including primary/secondary/tertiary safety measures), and assess whether the proposed non-conforming design can be demonstrated as providing an equivalent or greater level of safety.
The NCC remains the governing framework for Performance Solutions, including administrative and documentation requirements. The Supplement itself directs users back to the NCC for those requirements.
AS 1926.1 and the new Supplement 1 are available via the Standards Australia website (online store).
Members are encouraged to access the standard via SPASA’s exclusive Standards Subscription Service, offering discounted access to key industry standards and helping professionals stay current, compliant, and competitive.