Description

MBIE is amending Acceptable Solutions C/AS1, C/AS2, F7/AS1, and Verification Method C/VM2 to improve the safety of people from fire. The changes are a result of feedback received during the consultation process, and are intended to increase the protection of people in residential homes from fire, and bring the requirements for fire safety systems in line with the latest industry standards.

By aligning the requirements for fire safety systems with the latest industry standards, MBIE is ensuring that provisions in the compliance pathways for fire safety systems are up-to-date, consistent, and clear.

Scope

Amendments include:

Protection from fire for residential homes

Considering this feedback, MBIE has decided to proceed with the proposed changes to Acceptable Solution C/AS1 to increase the life safety of occupants through improvements to smoke alarm requirements and means of escape features. These changes will require interconnected smoke alarms as the minimum fire safety system required in each household unit.

Fire safety systems

Considering the feedback, MBIE will proceed with the proposed changes to Acceptable Solutions C/AS1, C/AS2, F7/AS1 and Verification Method C/VM2.

New versions of the standards are already available on Standards New Zealand’s website and can be used as part of an alternative solution to comply with the Building Code's protection from fire requirements. Free access to the fire alarm and interconnected smoke alarm standard is also sponsored by MBIE.