In the Australian construction industry, there’s a term that doesn’t get nearly enough airtime: seismic design.
Now, you might be thinking, “Earthquakes? In Australia?” You bet. Australia may not be notorious for earthquakes, but with over a hundred quakes each year hitting a magnitude of 3 or greater, seismic design is a conversation we need to start having.
Unpacking seismic design
Seismic design is an aspect of structural engineering focused on ensuring buildings can withstand the seismic forces of earthquakes and other loads like wind, snow, differential movement, and thermal effects.
The goal here is straightforward: to keep people safe and to prevent as much structural damage as possible. This becomes especially critical for buildings that are essential to post-disaster recovery, like hospitals and emergency services. It’s essential these structures not only survive seismic events but remain operational.
The National Construction Code for seismic design Australia
The National Construction Code (NCC) requires all buildings to comply with AS/NZS 11700 1170.4.
But the application of these standards isn’t a one-size-fits-all and how strictly a building needs to follow these guidelines is dependent on a range of factors, including:
- Location
- Soil the building is built upon
- Wind rating
- building height, and
- Importance Level of the building
Understanding the Importance Level of a building is key. This classification dictates the degree of resilience required based on the building’s function and the potential impact of its failure in the wake of an earthquake, e.g., a hospital building.
NCC compliant and industry-leading seismic designs
Here at Ceilings By Design, we stock and deliver the best in the seismic game —Armstrong and Studco.
Both are leaders in seismic design and manufacture designs that are fully NCC compliant with solutions such as:
- Studco framing
- Armstrong Berc 2 clips
- Seismic wall angles
- Seismic screw bolts
We not only supply seismic rated products, but also provide in house seismic design services for efficient, effective solutions.
Speak to our team for seismic solutions
The conversation about seismic safety might be a new one for many fit-out builders, but it’s time for this shift in focus. You need buildings to be built with materials that are engineered to ensure your projects are prepared for the unexpected.
Seismic design might not be the first thing you think of when you’re planning a new build in Australia, but it should be.
Ceilings By Design supplies a range of seismic solutions, so you can rest assured your fit out will be NCC compliant and withstand the unforeseen events of tomorrow. So, whether you’re fortifying against tremors or just playing it safe, we’ve got you covered.
Have a question about seismic design specs or looking for product advice? Our experts are ready to chat.
