Description

The purpose of this report is to:

- Describe and critique current methods used in New Zealand for demonstrating compliance with the Building Code for calculating and prescribing the levels of fire resistance provided to elements of construction, for the purpose of either preventing fire spread or maintaining structural stability during and after fire;

- Highlight alternative approaches that could be considered for further development; and

- Identify a general programme of further research that, if carried out, would provide a more robust basis for the levels of fire resistance currently specified by engineers and included within regulatory supporting documents.