Building and Construction Standards

Construction Standards for Safe, Compliant and High-Quality Projects

From structural design to site safety, construction projects depend on up-to-date Standards. Intertek Inform gives your team fast access to international, regional and national Standards, so you can meet regulatory requirements, reduce risk and deliver work that performs.

Why Standards matter in building and construction

Construction is one of the most regulated sectors, and requirements change often. Standards define how buildings, materials and systems should be designed, built and tested. Many are referenced in the National Construction Code (NCC), which makes them essential for compliance.

Working to current Standards helps your organisation:

• Meet regulatory and NCC requirements with confidence
• Reduce safety risks for workers and the community
• Improve quality and consistency across projects
• Avoid costly rework, delays and disputes caused by outdated requirements

Building and construction Standards not only protect employees on the worksite but also set the benchmark for the quality and performance of projects. The need for immediate access to essential and current Standards is crucial to remain compliant and safe.

Intertek Inform: Your source for Building and Construction Standards

Intertek Inform makes it easy for businesses to access building and construction Standards from our website. Whether you need a single Standard or a tailored subscription, we provide flexible option to suit your needs.

You can purchase individual Standards in digital PDF or printed (hardcopy) formats through our user-friendly website. For more extensive needs, consider subscribing to i2i, our secure, cloud-based, configurable platform that allows for efficient management of Standards throughout your organisation. 

Australian Building Standards for Stairs, Steps, and Deck Construction

Adhering to Australian building Standards is crucial for constructing safe and compliant stairs, steps, and decks. These Standards ensure the proper dimensions, structural integrity, and safety features are in place to prevent accidents and ensure durability. For decks, specific regulations address factors such as load-bearing capacities, balustrade heights, and handrails to maintain safety. Ensuring compliance with Australian Standards for stairs and steps helps create accessible and safe passageways in both residential and commercial buildings. Popular Standards include: 

• AS 1657:2018 - Fixed platforms, walkways, stairways and ladders - Design, construction and installation.
• AS/NZS ISO 7176.28:2013 - Wheelchairs Requirements and test methods for stair-climbing devices
• AS 1735.15:2021 - Lifts, escalators and moving walks Safety rules for the construction and installation of lifts
• AS/NZS 1577:2018 - Scaffold decking components

Building Standards for Roofing, Bathrooms, and Temperature Control

Australian building standards for roofing and bathrooms are designed to ensure quality, durability, and safety in various environments. Roofing standards address materials, load requirements, and installation techniques, ensuring resistance to weather conditions. For bathrooms, the focus is on waterproofing, drainage, and accessibility, ensuring that all installations meet the highest safety and usability requirements. Additionally, building temperature standards play a significant role in maintaining a comfortable and energy-efficient environment, dictating guidelines for insulation, ventilation, and heating systems to optimise indoor climate control. Popular Standards include:

• AS 4200.2:2017 - Pliable building membranes and underlays Installation
• AS 2050:2018 - Installation of Roof Tiles
• AS 3688:2016 - Water supply and gas systems - Metallic fittings and end connectors
• AS 1562.1:2018 - Design and installation of metal roof and wall cladding Metal
  
  

Construction Standards for Aged Care, Residential, and Bushfire Protection

In aged care and residential settings, construction standards are tailored to meet the specific needs of residents, ensuring safety, accessibility, and comfort. These standards cover aspects such as ramps, handrails, and fire safety to accommodate the elderly and those with mobility issues. Additionally, Australian bushfire construction standards provide crucial guidelines for building in fire-prone areas, focusing on materials and design techniques to reduce the risk of damage during a bushfire. These standards are essential for protecting property and ensuring the safety of occupants in high-risk regions. Popular Standards include: 

• AS 3789.7-1996 - Textiles for health care facilities and institutions General apparel
• AS 3959:2018 - Construction of buildings in bushfire-prone areas
• AS 4299-1995 - Adaptable housing
• AS 1684.2:2021 - Residential timber-framed construction Non-cyclonic areas

Swimming Pool and Bridge Construction Standards

Swimming pool construction standards in Australia focus on safety, structural integrity, and compliance with local regulations, including fencing and water safety measures. These standards ensure that pools are built to withstand usage while providing a safe environment for users. Bridge construction standards, on the other hand, address the design, load-bearing capacities, and materials used in building sturdy and long-lasting bridges. Compliance with these standards is critical to ensure the durability and safety of infrastructure that supports transportation and community connectivity. Popular Standards include:

• AS 5100.7:2017 - Bridge design Bridge assessment
• AS 5100.5:2017 - Bridge design Concrete
• AS 1926.1:2024 - Swimming pool safety Safety barriers for swimming pools
• AS 2783-1992 - Use of reinforced concrete for small swimming pools

Noise, Materials, and Concrete Standards in Construction

Construction noise standards are in place to minimise the impact of construction activities on nearby communities, dictating acceptable noise levels and times for certain activities. Standards for construction materials ensure that the materials used meet rigorous quality and safety requirements, whether they are for structural support or aesthetic purposes. Concrete construction standards, including those specific to masonry in small buildings, ensure that concrete structures are durable, safe, and fit for purpose, detailing mix specifications, curing processes, and reinforcement requirements. Popular Standards include:

• AS 3600:2018 - Concrete structures
• AS 3610.1:2018 - Formwork for concrete Specifications
• AS 2436-2010 - Guide to noise and vibration control on construction, demolition and maintenance sites (Reconfirmed 2016)
• AS 2021:2015 - Acoustics - Aircraft noise intrusion - Building siting and construction