Great presentation and refresher

what do you do if you dont get an email to create password?

In an OPT Out situation and self-build is the owner the builder also? Also, because its OPT Out there is no design certifier- does the owner take the role of designer also?

Thanks for sharing.

P r o m o s m 🌺

great stuff

dry risers

Very good presentation

Killer video 👐! Don't get left behind = Promo SM !!!

Sounds like boring job

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Question 20: How is ventilation compliance 5m3/m2/hr achieved in 3 story house with Fire doors specified to protect stairway. With an FD, a 3 mm gap required for fire safety? Answer 20: TGD L 2021 provides that air pressure testing should be carried out on all dwellings on all development sites including single dwelling developments to show attainment of backstop value of 5 m3/hr/m2. Air permeability can be measured by means of pressure testing of a building prior to completion. The procedure for testing is specified in I.S. EN ISO 9972:2015 Thermal performance of buildings - determination of air permeability of buildings - fan pressurization method.

Question 19: Before we have to retrofit the retrofits should air tightness test and ventilation validation not be made mandatory? Answer 19: S.R. 54:2014 Code of Practice for the energy efficient retrofit of dwellings chapter 10 provides guidance on ventilation when carrying energy efficiency retrofit works. The type of ventilation system/method chosen should be determined by both the level of retrofit proposed and the level of air permeability which may be achieved - Table 27 provides guidance on suitable ventilation strategies for dwelling retrofit. Where a high level energy efficiency whole house retrofit is proposed, airtightness testing is recommended to ensure that an advanced air permeability level has been achieved. Where an energy efficiency retrofit to an advanced level of air permeability (i.e. below 5m3/hr/m2) is intended, a centralised MEV or MVHR system may be considered. Where an airtightness test is not planned, the checklist, shown in Table 28, gives a list of measures that, if most or all are adopted, will likely lead to a refurbished dwelling achieving an air permeability below 5 m3/hr/m2.

Question 18: Do you think the existing regulations address IAQ issues like PM2.5 particles, formaldehyde & Volatile Organic Compounds, or are additional regulations required? Answer 18: Requirement F1 of Part F of the Building Regulations requires Adequate and effective means of ventilation shall be provided for people in buildings. This shall be achieved by: (a) limiting the moisture content of the air within the building so that it does not contribute to condensation and mould growth, and (b) limiting the concentration of harmful pollutants in the air within the building. TGD F 2019 paragraph 1.1.3 provides that the means of ventilation should be capable of providing a satisfactory indoor air quality for human respiration in occupied areas of a building by: - rapidly diluting pollutants, including odours, and water vapour to levels which do not pose a direct or indirect health risk; - removing excess water vapour from areas where it is produced in significant quantities, such as kitchens, utility rooms, bathrooms and shower rooms so as to reduce the likelihood of creating conditions that support the growth of mould, harmful bacteria, pathogens and allergens; - removing harmful pollutants from areas where they are produced in significant quantities; - providing an adequate supply of fresh air for persons using an area in a building; - dispersing residual pollutants and water vapour.

Question 17: Why input air window vents allowed with mech ventilation system? When the homeowner moves in they put curtains up blocking these vents, system does not work? Answer 17: A centralized continuous mechanical extract ventilation system should normally provide air supply to each habitable room with extract from wet rooms. The system should be capable of an extract rate from each wet room at least equal to that specified in Table 1 of TGD F 2019. Supply air inlets should be capable of meeting the designed air flow rate at all times. For any design air permeability, controllable background ventilators having a minimum equivalent area of 2,500 mm2 should be fitted in each room, except wet rooms, from which air is extracted. TGD F 2019 paragraph 1.2.4.4 provides guidance on the location and installation of background ventilators. Further guidance is provided in Installation and Commissioning of Ventilation Systems for Dwellings - Achieving Compliance with Part F 2019. The owner of the building should be provided with sufficient information about the centralized continuous mechanical extract ventilation system, its continuous operation and maintenance requirements so that it can be operated in an efficient and effective manner. A way of complying would be to provide a suitable set of operating and maintenance instructions on the centralized continuous mechanical extract ventilation system in a way the householder can understand. The instruction should be directly related to the system installed in the dwelling without prejudice to the need to comply with health and safety regulations. The instructions should explain the important function of the system to provide adequate ventilation, how the system is intended to work, why the system should not be turned off, how the controls should be used and how and when the system should be cleaned and maintained. The location of the continuous centralized mechanical ventilation unit in the dwelling and the location of filters on the unit should be identified in the document. Boost and normal operation of the unit should be explained and the effects of opening windows. Guidance on the operation of controls and how a fault is indicated, location of fault alarms and their meaning should also be included.

Question 16: Should every Commencement Notice application include a requirement to provide a Provisional DEAP Report as well as a Ventilation Design Sheet? Answer 16: Regulation 8(a) of the European Union (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2019 (S.I. No. 183 of 2019) states that, for new dwellings, the nearly zero energy performance requirements of this regulation shall be met by: (a) providing that the energy performance of the building is such as to limit the calculated primary energy consumption and related carbon dioxide (CO2) to that of a nearly zero energy building within the meaning of the Directive insofar as is reasonably practicable, when both energy consumption and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions are calculated using the Dwelling Energy Assessment Procedure (DEAP) published by Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. The DEAP software will calculate the EPC and CPC of the dwelling being assessed and clearly indicate whether compliance with the requirements of Regulation 8(a) has been achieved. TGD F 2019 provides that all ventilation systems should be designed by competent designers. Ventilation systems, when commissioned and balanced, should then be validated by a competent person to ensure that they achieve the design flow rates. The validation should be carried out by a person certified by an independent third party to carry out this work, e.g. Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB), National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) certified or equivalent. All certification should align and be in accordance with the Building Control Framework.

Question 15: Why is air tightness not required for a retrofit? Answer 15: S.R. 54:2014 Code of Practice for the energy efficient retrofit of dwellings chapter 10 provides guidance on ventilation when carrying energy efficiency retrofit works. The type of ventilation system/method chosen should be determined by both the level of retrofit proposed and the level of air permeability which may be achieved - Table 27 provides guidance on suitable ventilation strategies for dwelling retrofit. Where a high level energy efficiency whole house retrofit is proposed, airtightness testing is recommended to ensure that an advanced air permeability level has been achieved. Where an energy efficiency retrofit to an advanced level of air permeability (i.e. below 5m3/hr/m2) is intended, a centralised MEV or MVHR system may be considered. Where an airtightness test is not planned, the checklist, shown in Table 28, gives a list of measures that, if most or all are adopted, will likely lead to a refurbished dwelling achieving an air permeability below 5 m3/hr/m2. With regards to Major Renovation works, the energy performance of the whole dwelling should be improved to Cost Optimal level insofar as this is technically, functionally and economically feasible. The cost optimal level to be achieved is: (a) An energy performance of 125 kWh/m2/yr when calculated in DEAP as set out in Table 7 (Column 2) of TGD L Dwellings 2021 or (b) Implementing the energy performance improvements as set out in Table 7 (Column 3) of TGD L Dwellings 2021 insofar as they are technically, functionally and economically feasible.

Question 14: Is ventilation validation required for a retrofit? Answer 14: Where new mechanical extract ventilation systems are installed as part of a Major Renovation as defined in Part L 2019, then the system should be designed, installed, commissioned and validated by an independent competent person - e.g. NSAI certified or equivalent, - to ensure that they achieve the design flow rates.

Question 13: Should the Building Control Authority ask for ventilation certificate at ccc to show that the building complies with Part F? Answer 13: All ventilation systems, when commissioned and balanced, should then be validated by a competent person to ensure that they achieve the design flow rates. The validation should be carried out by a person certified by an independent third party to carry out this work, e.g. Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB), National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) certified or equivalent. Therefore the Building Control Authority should ask for the ventilation validation system at ccc. Certification should accord with the Building Control Framework.

Question 12: Is there an issue with MVHR (filter issues) and Part C Radon? New Radon Map issued today. Answer 12: TGD C provides guidance with regards to protection from high concentration levels of Radon. EPA is to update the new Radon map issued today.

Question 11: 3 bedroom house with calculations for 5 people, if have 3 in each bedroom is there an issue? Answer 11: TGD F states that ventilation systems should be designed by competent designers. TGD F provides guidance with regards to minimum ventilation rate per design occupancy.

Question 10: Emmanuel said self certification in Ireland doesn't work in his presentation. With this in mind is the Opt Out CN being looked at in the same way? Answer 10: This observation was specific to the validation of ventilation systems provision in TGD F 2019.

Question 9: Does the Part L retrofits address the Part F possible issues? Answer 9: S.R. 54:2014 Code of Practice for the energy efficient retrofit of dwellings chapter 10 provides guidance on ventilation when carrying energy efficiency retrofit works.

Question 8: Has the issue of generating power to the grid without payback to the owner being addressed? Answer 8: Microgeneration Support Scheme is the responsibility of Department of Environment, Climate and Communications.

Question 7: Is there equipment that can be used by occupants to check ventilation? Answer 7: Ventilation systems, when commissioned and balanced, should then be validated by a competent person to ensure that they achieve the design flow rates. The validation should be carried out by a person certified by an independent third party to carry out this work, e.g. Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB), National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) certified or equivalent. Detailed information on the installation and commissioning of ventilation systems is provided in Installation and Commissioning of Ventilation Systems for Dwellings-Achieving Compliance with Part F. The owner of the building should be provided with sufficient information about the ventilation system, its continuous operation and maintenance requirements so that it can be operated in an efficient and effective manner. A way of complying would be to provide a suitable set of operating and maintenance instructions on the ventilation system in a way the householder can understand. The instruction should be directly related to the system installed in the dwelling without prejudice to the need to comply with health and safety regulations. The instructions should explain the important function of the system to provide adequate ventilation, how the system is intended to work, why the system should not be turned off, how the controls should be used and how and when the system should be cleaned and maintained.

Question 6: How do you stop people from messing with heat pump controls. Is there enough education on how to operate these properly/efficiently? Answer 6: TGD L 2021 Conservation of Fuel and energy for dwellings paragraph 1.6 states that the owner of the building should be provided with sufficient information about the building, the fixed building services and their maintenance requirements so that the building can be operated in such a manner as to use no more fuel and energy than is reasonable in the circumstances. A way of complying would be to provide a suitable set of operating and maintenance instructions aimed at achieving economy in the use of fuel and energy in a way that householders can understand. The instructions should be directly related to the particular system(s) installed in the dwelling. Without prejudice to the need to comply with health and safety requirements, the instructions should explain to the occupier of the dwelling how to operate the system(s) efficiently. This should include: a) the making of adjustments to the timing and temperature control settings; (b) what routine maintenance is needed to enable operating efficiency to be maintained at a reasonable level through the service life(lives) of the system(s); and (c) the operation and maintenance of renewable energy systems.

Question 5: In areas of high exposure ie high driving rain index, is there a higher requirement or calculation for Part F or Part L? Answer 5: Guidance for Site Preparation and Resistance to Moisture is provided in TGD C. The DEAP methodology and software is used to demonstrate compliance with the EPBD (recast) in Ireland including elements of the Irish Building Regulations Part L 2005, 2008, 2011, 2019 and 2021 for new dwellings and for generating Building Energy Rating (BER) labels and BER advisory reports. DEAP is compliant with the methodology framework in the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). The national calculation methodology required by the EPBD is described in the annexes of the overarching standards namely I.S. EN ISO 52000-1:2017, I.S. EN ISO 52003-1:2017, I.S. EN ISO 52010-1:2017, I.S. EN ISO 52016-1:2017, and I.S. EN ISO 52018-1:2017 and are available from NSAI. DEAP calculations uses climate data for Dublin from Version 2.0 of ASHRAE’s International Files for Energy Calculations (IWEC2).

Question 4: With EVs and Heat pumps does the ESB have capacity? Answer 4: Electricity supply is a matter for the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications.

Question 3: Are open hearth chimneys still appropriate under New Part L and Part F? Answer 3: When a new dwelling achieves an MPEPC of 0.3, an MPCPC of 0.35 and an RER of 0.20, this will demonstrate compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations. Building Regulations are performance based and technology neutral. Compliance examples listed in Appendix E of TGD L 2021 Dwellings illustrates that compliance can be achieved with diverse building services strategies. Building Regulations Part J Heat Producing Appliances and Part B Fire Safety cover the regulatory requirements for solid fuel appliances and permanent air supplies.

Question 2: Do you expect that traditional ventilation (hole in wall) be phased under future SEAI Retrofits? Answer 2: S.R. 54:2014 Code of Practice for the energy efficient retrofit of dwellings chapter 10 provides guidance on ventilation when carrying energy efficiency retrofit works. The type of ventilation system/method chosen should be determined by both the level of retrofit proposed and the level of air permeability which may be achieved - Table 27 provides guidance on suitable ventilation strategies (including natural ventilation) for dwelling retrofit.

Question 1: How does the adoption on EU Regulations take account of the Irish Climate i.e. High Humidity and Low Temperature? Answer 1: The DEAP methodology and software is used to demonstrate compliance with the EPBD (recast) in Ireland including elements of the Irish Building Regulations Part L 2005, 2008, 2011, 2019 and 2021 for new dwellings and for generating Building Energy Rating (BER) labels and BER advisory reports. DEAP is compliant with the methodology framework in the EU Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD). The national calculation methodology required by the EPBD is described in the annexes of the overarching standards namely I.S. EN ISO 52000-1:2017, I.S. EN ISO 52003-1:2017, I.S. EN ISO 52010-1:2017, I.S. EN ISO 52016-1:2017, and I.S. EN ISO 52018-1:2017 and are available from NSAI. DEAP calculations uses climate data for Dublin from Version 2.0 of ASHRAE’s International Files for Energy Calculations (IWEC2).

Hi, great video. Would you know how much time does it takes for the validation of the commencement notice? Thanks

Hi, your videos are really helpful, thanks! One question, is it not possible to get a completion certificate if the commencement notice was submitted without an assigned certifier? Thanks.

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Q&A Part 3 Topic - Modern Methods of Construction Question 16 What do designers do when manufacturers only test a few scenarios? For example cavity barriers are only tested between 2 masonry leafs effectively ruling out rainscreens. Response 16 Designers should select products that have tests and calculations carried out by an accredited laboratory, showing that the material is capable of performing the function for which it is intended. Question 17 Do some Modern Methods (such as cross laminated timber - CLT) have certification achieved elseswhere, for example in Germany, Sweden etc. Could these be used as a guide for Irish Building Control Authorities? Response 17 All systems will have to demonstrate compliance with the Irish Building Regulations, and certification from other jurisdictions cannot be solely relied on. It would be up to the AC to confirm if a Certification from another Jurisdiction is appropriate/acceptable and this could be the queried under a Section 11 request. If the manufacturer has received an IAB Cert they have demonstrated compliance to the Irish Building Regulations. Alterations to the system may invalidate the IAB Cert so ad hoc changes should be avoided. Refer to Guidance in TGD D 0.1 to 0.10: www.gov.ie/en/publication/87e51-technical-guidance-document-d-materials-and-workmanship/ Question 18 What is done in areas such as Scandinavia or Shetland where there are wooden type dwelling houses exist? Response 18 Ireland has unique climate to must European counties, such as a different climate, driving rain index, humidity etc. Always check if a construction product is suitable for the location and conditions that it is to be used and this must last for 50-60 years. Section 3(5) and Section 16 of the Building Control Act along with Article 9 of the Building Regulations are probably the most fundamental provisions in the entire statutory building control legislative framework. Essentially, all buildings to which the Building Regulations apply must, on foot of these provisions, be designed and constructed in accordance with the appropriate requirements of the Building Regulations. It follows that the primary responsibility for observing these requirements falls on the persons who are involved in the design and construction of works or a building and on the owners of buildings, who normally start this process. Building Control Act: Section 3(5) requires that “Subject to subsection (11) and to-(a) any dispensation or relaxation granted under section 4 or 5, or (b) any appeal under section 7 which has been allowed, every building to which building regulations apply shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the provisions of such regulations.” Building Regulations: Article 9 Design and construction of works and buildings requires that: (1) Every works or building to which these Regulations apply shall be designed and constructed- (a) in accordance with the appropriate requirements set out in the Second Schedule, and (b) in such a manner as to avoid the breaching of any other requirement of that Schedule. (2) No works shall be carried out to a building which would cause a new or greater contravention in the building of any provision of these Regulations. Furthermore, Section 16 of the Act states that “Any person who contravenes (by act or omission) any requirement of this Act or of any order, regulation or notice under this Act shall be guilty of an offence.” Question 19 Should a National Market Surveillance Section be established to audit off-site construction of modular buildings? Response 19 Market Surveillance of Construction Products relates to the activities carried out and measures taken by the body specified in Regulation 10 of the Construction Products Regulations to ensure that construction products comply with the requirements set out in the relevant harmonised technical specifications hENs and do not endanger health, safety or any other aspect of public interest protection. ‘Construction Product’ means any product or kit which is produced and placed on the market for incorporation in a permanent manner in construction works or parts thereof and the performance of which has an effect on the performance of the construction works with respect to the basic requirements for construction works. Modular Buildings do not have a hEN, and compliance with the relevant requirements of Parts A-M of the Building Regulations must be demonstrated, by design, similar construction, certification and/or complying with the exact requirements of Parts A-M Technical Guidance Documents. Question 20 Does the absence of a Declaration of Performance (DoP) mean that a material (or system of construction) cannot be used? Does a DoP alone mean that the material or system can be used? Response 20 Fitness of Materials can be shown by section 1.1 of Technical Guidance Document D - 1.1 states that Requirement D3 defines what is meant by “proper materials” for use in works. In assessing the fitness for use and conditions of use of a material/product, consideration should be given to durability, safety, local climatic conditions (e.g. wind driven rain, humidity etc.) and other such issues. While the primary route for establishing the fitness of a material for its intended use is through the recognised standardisation procedures referred to in paragraphs (a), (b) or (c) of Requirement D3, other methods may also be considered in establishing fitness including: - (a) Independent certification schemes by approved bodies e.g. the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). Such certification schemes may provide information on the performance of a product or certify that the material complies with the requirements of a recognised document and indicates it is suitable for its intended purpose and use. Accreditation of the body, by a member of the European cooperation for Accreditation (EA) such as the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB), offers a way of ensuring that such certification can be relied on. All such certification schemes may be in addition to, but not conflict with, CE marking; (b) Tests and calculations carried out by an accredited laboratory, showing that the material is capable of performing the function for which it is intended. Accreditation by a member of the European cooperation for Accreditation (EA) such as the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB) offers a way of ensuring that tests are conducted in accordance with recognised criteria and can be relied on; (c) Performance in use, i.e. that the material can be shown by experience, such as its use in a substantially similar way in an existing building, to be capable of enabling the building to satisfy the relevant functional requirements of the Building Regulations. Refer to: www.gov.ie/en/publication/78e67-technical-guidance-document-m-access-and-use/ Question 21 How can an Assigned Certifier be expected to certify a modular building without carrying out factory inspections? Response 21 This is matter for the Assigned Certifier (AC) to address in their inspection plan and such inspections may be carried out by the AC or another Ancillary Certifier. Question 22 In relation to TGD A - Structures, IS EN 13914-1 requires textured rendered finish for severe and very severe exposure. Does this mean that smooth render should not be used? Response 22 All products, materials and finishes should be fit for purpose for the location that they situated in. For guidance on types of render to be used, refer to Table 14 of S.R 325:2013+A2:2018 which outlines the range of masonry condition situations. For example: Masonry Condition Situation C2 (unrendered external walls) - MX3.2 net density ≥ 1,500 kg/m3, mean compressive strength ≥ 13N/mm2 aggregate in accordance with I.S. EN 12620 and S.R. 16:2016 Topic - Site Inspections and Observations Question 23 Should blockwork be delivered covered and also covered once built given the Declaration of Performance says it should not be left exposed? Response 23 "A manufacturer of aggregate concrete blocks is responsible for compliance with the Construction Product Regulations (CPR) and in particular for the Declaration of Performance/CE marking of the construction product and providing clear information on safety in use of the product they are placing on the market, having full knowledge of the raw material and having regard to the end product’s suitability for use in construction works in accordance with the relevant SRs published by the NSAI. NOTE: Article 6.3 (e) of the CPR states: “The declaration of performance shall in addition contain: …(e) the performance of those essential characteristics of the construction product which are related to the intended use or uses, taking into consideration the provisions in relation to the intended use or uses where the manufacturer intends the product to be made available on the market;...” It should also be noted that a Guidance Note is being prepared by the DHLGH." Question 24 If the NBCO are inspecting sites do they insist blockwork be covered given its stated in all Declarations of Performance that the units should not be left exposed? Response 24 The NBCMSO support the local Building Control Officers. If during a joint inspection any issue with site storage of any material is noted a Section 11 (Building Control Act 1990) request (to demonstrate compliance with the relevant requirements of the Building Regulations) should/may be raised by the local Building Control Officer under Part D1 of the Building Regulations. Ref to: www.gov.ie/en/publication/78e67-technical-guidance-document-m-access-and-use/

Q&A Part 2 Topic - Building Regulations: Part M Question 9 The "Bringing Back Homes" initiative excluded the requirement for a DAC in some cases. How should Part M issues be remediated if the client argues that Part M is not applicable? Response 9 "Bringing Back Homes" shows types of buildings that are required to have a Disability Access Certificate. The requirement to comply with Part M will still apply if the works effect the requirements of Part M. Ref: www.gov.ie/en/publication/78e67-technical-guidance-document-m-access-and-use/ Question 10 Should the NBCMSO provide DAC templates both in terms of drawings and compliance reports for consultants, as the quality of submissions can vary? Response 10 The NBCO are currently preparing a Guidance Note in relation to Disability Access Certificates. Please refer to "A Sample-based Approach to Applying for a Disability Access Certificate" on the NBCO website: www.nbco.localgov.ie/sites/default/files/content-page/attachments/2012_a_sample_based_approach_to_applying_for_a_disabiltiy_access_certificate_copy_v2.pdf Question 11 Does Part M need to be revised and updated? What might need to be added to provide for a more inclusive built environment? Response 11 Yes, Part M does need to be updated. The NBCO would recommend that the term "disability" be removed from the document, particularly the Disability Access Certificate. Through discussions on the CPD Day, it was suggested that renaming the DAC to “Access for All Certificates” would be more inclusive. Disability is too often thought of and designed for in the context of wheelchairs, whereas a range of access needs should be considered in all building projects. For example, needs for mobility, vision and colour, hearing, etc., should be considered in all commercial and public building designs. Question 12 Should DACs be in place prior to commencement to reinforce their importance and avoid delays during the construction and CCC stages? Response 12 To avoid potentially expensive remedial work, it would be considered good practice to apply for a DAC at the same time as a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) prior to submitting a commencement notice, therefore ensuring that the DAC and any conditions pertaining to it are set out prior to commencement of works. However, an application for a DAC may be made after the submission of a Commencement Notice, but in no case shall a building be opened, operated or occupied or permitted to do so unless a DAC has been granted or pending determination of an appeals process. Question 13 Is the requirement for public buildings to be upgraded to comply with any updates to Part M within 10 years still in place? Response 13 Yes. Disability Act 2005: (3) (a) Buildings, which are public buildings on the commencement of this section or which become public buildings after such commencement, shall be brought into compliance with Part M (unless the building is already required to be so compliant) not later than 31 December 2015. (b) Public buildings shall be brought into compliance with any amendment of Part M made after such commencement not later than 10 years after the commencement of the amendment. All existing Public Building should comply with Part M (S.I.. No. 513 of 2010) by the 1st January 2022. Question 14 Should the submission fee on the DAC application be increase? Response 14 Fees for all Notices and Certificates are set out and regulated by the Building Control Regulations, as such the NBCO cannot comment. Question 15 Do duplex dwellings have to comply with Part M where they can only be access by external stairs? Response 15 The guidance in Section 3 of TGD M 2010 applies to dwellings and their environs. This includes individual dwelling houses and individual apartments. It does not apply to the common areas of apartment blocks. Guidance on these areas is provided in Section 1. The guidance in Section 3 also applies to the common areas of duplex buildings.

1 Part Q&A Topic - General Question 1 How are the valid and interesting learning points from the CPD day on 23rd February going to be actioned? Response 1 All questions will be collated, answered, circulated and actioned as required. Question 2 Could the Building Control Management (BCMS) online system be developed to allow for uploading of a project BIM models for automated checking of compliance with Standards, Technical Guidance Documents & Regulations? Response 2 BCMS is not designed for a file management system for us rs. With considerable resources, a pilot to develop the BCMS online system to allow for uploading of a project BIM models for automated checking of compliance with Standards, TGD & Regulations could be develo ed. A suitable BIM project would first have to be available and checked for compliance to specificati ns. The office would welcome partners for such a project and then would have to acquire the fund ng. Only Building Regulations Compliance Documentation could be accepted as the BCMS is not a file management system. Topic - Market Surveillance of Construction Products and Building Control Question 3 Is there, or should there be surveillance of construction product building provid rs? Many builders will presume these are ok, and providers are none the wiser? Response 3 Article 2 of the Construction Product Regulations (CPR) 305/defines' nes ‘economic ope'ator’ as meaning the manufacturer, importer, distributor or authorised representa ive. Therefore, hardware suppliers are considered to be distributors under the PR. As such they must have available with any Construction Product placed on the market the CE marking, Declaration of Performances and Safety Informa on. Construction Products are listed in Annex IV, Table -1 Product Areas of CPR Regulation 305/2011. Question 4 Is self-declaration much protection to the consumer? Response 4 Regulation CPR 305/2011 requires"that "all economic operators intervening in the supply and distribution chain should take appropriate measures to ensure that they place or make available on the market only construction products which are in compliance with the requirements of this Regulation, which aim to ensure the performance of construction products and fulfil basic requirements for construction orks. In particular, importers and distributors of construction products should be aware of the essential characteristics for which there are provisions on the Union market, and of the specific requirements in Member States in relation to the basic requirements for construction works, and should use this knowledge in their commercial transac" ns." Ref: See CPR - Information Note (June 2013) for responsibil ties. www.gov.ie/en/publication/5def4-construction-products-regulation-information-note-june-2013/ Question 5 Are British Board Agrement Certificates acceptable in Ireland where no EU Harmonised Standard exists? Respo"se 5 "The British Board Agrément Certificate (BBA), or other certificates, need to comply with 0.10 of Technical Guidance Document (TGD) Part D of the Building Regulation which st"tes: "0.10 The process of Agrément Certification applies to those products and processes which do not fall within the scope of existing construction standards, either because they are innovative or because they deviate from established orms. NSAI Agrément assesses, specifies testing, and where appropriate, issues Agrément Certificates confirming that new building products, materials, techniques and equipment are safe and fit for purpose in accordance with the Irish Building Regulations and with the terms of the certif cate. Such certificates may be in addition to, but not conflict with, CE ma"king." The primary responsibility for compliance with the requirements of the Building Regulations rests with the designers, builders and owners of buil ings. Interpretation of the legislation is, ultimately, a matter for the Courts and implementation of the Building Control System is a matter for the local Building Control Auth rity. The NBCO has no function in assessing whether any particular proposal complies with the Building Regula ions. Enforcement of the Building Regulations is a matter for the local Building Control Authority. Question 6 If there is no harmonised EN Standard for a product and it is tested to a BS Standard within an EU Notified Body, can it be specified on Irish projects? Response 6 Technical Guidance Document (TGD) Part D - Fitness of Materials"1.1: "Requirement D3 defines what is mea't by 'pmaterials'rials' for use in orks. In assessing the fitness for use and conditions of use of a material/product, consideration should be given to durability, safety, local climatic conditions (e.g. wind driven rain, humidity etc.) and other such i sues. While the primary route for establishing the fitness of a material for its intended use is through the recognised standardisation procedures referred to in paragraphs (a), (b) or (c) of Requirement D3, other methods may also be considered in establishing fitness including: - (a) Independent certification schemes by approved bodies e.g. the National Standards Authority of Ireland ( SAI). Such certification schemes may provide information on the performance of a product or certify that the material complies with the requirements of a recognised document and indicates it is suitable for its intended purpose an use. Accreditation of the body, by a member of the European cooperation for Accreditation (EA) such as the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB), offers a way of ensuring that such certification can be reli d on. All such certification schemes may be in addition to, but not conflict with, CE marking; (b) Tests and calculations carried out by an accredited laboratory, showing that the material is capable of performing the function for which it is int nded. Accreditation by a member of the European cooperation for Accreditation (EA) such as the Irish National Accreditation Board (INAB) offers a way of ensuring that tests are conducted in accordance with recognised criteria and can be relied on; (c) Performance in use, i.e. that the material can be shown by experience, such as its use in a substantially similar way in an existing building, to be capable of enabling the building to satisfy the relevant functional requirements of the Building Regula ions. Note: Schemes which comply with the relevant recommendations of I.S. EN ISO 9001: 2008 Quality Management Systems are intended to ensure that materials can be expected to be of consistent qu lity. They are not intended to show that the materials conform to an appropriate technical specific"tion." Question 7 Does the NSAI have a role in Market Surveillance of Products they have issued the DOP and CE Markings? What follow up process is carried out? Response "The legal acts based on the Construction Products Directive (CPD) (Commission Decisions) and, later on the CPR foresee the kind and level of intervention of the 3rd party. As a result, both harmonised technical specifications (harmonised European standards, or the European Assessment Documents), contain the necessary detailed tasks for the Notified Bodies in order to ensure the Assessment and Verification of Constancy of Performance (the so called “AVCP tasks”). These are the tasks which the Notified Bodies are expected to fulfil in the framework of the CPR. Notified Bodies are expected to completely refrain from activities belonging to the area of market surveillance (as these are to be undertaken by the national market surveillance authorities), or from verifying the compliance of the manufacturer with his obligations under the CPR. As an example, it is not for Notified Bodies to check if the manufacturer has correctly drawn up the Declaration of Performance (DoP), or if the manufacturer has correctly affixed the CE marking. Refer to: ec.europa.eu/growth/sectors/construction/construction-products-regulation-cpr/frequently-asked-questions_en " Question 8 Following Brexit are Construction Products with UK Certification only allowed to be used in Ireland? Response 8 Harmonised products or those subject to a European Assessment Document must comply with the Construction Products Regulations (CPR). For the purpose of use of Construction Products in construction works or a building, these construction products must be assessed and specified by the designers of such works or building in the context of fitness and use under relevant Irish Building Regulations and must comply also with Part D - Materials and Workmanship. Note: UK is considered an EU member state for construction products until 31st December 2022.

Q & A Part 2 Question 6: Provision for future EV charging points appears to suggest just ducting / cable infrastructure needs to be provided however it is not clear whether the new building needs to future proof the power allowance i.e., if additional sub stations need to be allowed for. If for example there is a scheme with 100 apartments, then one substation would be sufficient for with 10% EV charging. However, if 100% EV was added in future then an additional substation would be required which is difficult to do. Response 6: Regulation 5(e) and Regulation 5(f) of the European Union (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulation 2021 (S.I. 393 of 2021) provide as follows: Regulation 5(e): ‘A building (other than a dwelling) which has more than 10 car parking spaces, that is: (i) new, or (ii) subject to subparagraph (g), undergoing major renovation, shall have installed at least one recharging point and ducting infrastructure (consisting of conduits for electric cables) for at least one in every 5 car parking spaces to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles.’ Regulation 5(f): ‘A building (containing one, or more than one, dwelling), which has more than 10 car parking spaces, that is: (i) new, or (ii) subject to subparagraph (g), undergoing major renovation, shall have installed ducting infrastructure (consisting of conduits for electric cables) for each car parking space to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles.’ TGD L 2021 Buildings other than Dwellings Paragraph 1.4.7.4 and TGD L 2021 Dwellings Paragraph 1.4.6.2 provide that: ‘(d) ducting infrastructure should be routed back to a suitable location with electrical supply access and adequate space provided to accommodate all recharging point ducting connections and electrical supply equipment;’ Question 7: EV charging infrastructure for existing externally located (not directly associated with residential or non-residential buildings like halting areas at motorways), the associated infrastructure sometimes includes a technical electrical infrastructure area and local additional battery systems. Are these elements also covered by existing regulations? Response 7: The EU (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 393 of 2021) provides for electrical vehicle recharging infrastructure where the car park is located inside the building, or where the car park is physically adjacent to the building. TGD L 2021 Dwellings Paragraph 1.4.6.1 provides as follows for new buildings: ‘For a new building (containing one, or more than one, dwelling), where there are more than 10 car parking spaces, ducting infrastructure, consisting of conduits for electric cables, should be provided for every parking space, to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles where: · the car park is located inside the building, e.g. a basement car park; or · the car park is physically adjacent to the building, i.e. the car park is within the curtilage of the site.’ TGD L 2021 Dwellings Paragraph 2.3.9.1 provides as follows for existing buildings: ‘When major renovation upgrades are being carried out to a building (containing one, or more than one, dwelling), where there are more than 10 car parking spaces, ducting infrastructure, consisting of conduits for electric cables, should be provided for every car parking space, to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles where: · the car park is located inside the building, e.g. a basement car park, and the renovation measures include the car park or the electrical infrastructure of the building; or · the car park is physically adjacent to the building, i.e. the car park is within the curtilage of the site, and the renovation measures include the car park or the electrical infrastructure of the car park.’ TGD L 2021 Buildings Other than Dwellings Paragraph 1.4.7.1 provides as follows for new buildings: ‘For new buildings, where there are more than 10 car parking spaces and where the car park is located inside the building, e.g. a basement car park; or the car park is physically adjacent to the building, i.e. the car park is within the curtilage of the site, the following minimum electric vehicle recharging installation should be provided: (a) at least 1 recharging point within the meaning of Directive 2014/94/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union; (b) ducting infrastructure, consisting of conduits for electric cables, for at least 1 in every 5 car parking spaces, or part thereof, to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles; (c) at least 1 accessible recharging point; or 5% of the total recharging point provision, whichever is the greater, in accordance with similar provision for accessible car parking spaces as outlined in TGD M 2010 Sub-section 1.1.5.’ TGD L 2021 Buildings Other than Dwellings Paragraph 2.3.6.1 provides as follows for existing buildings: ‘Electric vehicle recharging infrastructure should be provided when major renovation upgrades are being carried out to a building, where there are more than 10 car parking spaces and: · where the car park is located inside the building, e.g. a basement car park and the renovation measures include the car park or the electrical infrastructure of the building; or · where the car park is physically adjacent to the building, i.e. the car park is within the curtilage of the site and the renovation measures include the car park or the electrical infrastructure of the car park.’ Question 8: When is the 2025 existing building Automation and control systems going to be transposed, will it be triggered by alteration, by transaction (acquisition and disposal) or will it be a flat application to all existing non dwellings over 290 kW from 2025? (With the technical and economic feasibility evaluation caveats considered) Response 8: The EU (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 393 of 2021) transpose Article 14(4) and Article 15(4) of the Energy Performance of Buildings Amending Directive 2018/844 requiring that: ‘An existing building (other than a dwelling) shall, before 31 December 2025, where technically and economically feasible, be equipped with a building automation and control system if: (i) the effective rated output for heating systems or systems for combined space heating and ventilation in the building is over 290kW, or (ii) the effective rated output for systems for air-conditioning or systems for combined air-conditioning and ventilation in the building is over 290kW.’ Question 9: Housing estates - am I right in saying that you DONT have to make provision for EV charging? Response 9: The EU (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 393 of 2021) require installation of electric vehicle recharging infrastructure in car parks within the curtilage as follows: Regulation 5(d) requires installation of a minimum number of recharging points in non-residential buildings with more than 20 car parking spaces as follows: ‘In respect of an existing building (other than a dwelling) with more than 20 car parking spaces, there shall be installed, before 1 January 2025, one, or more, recharging points.’ Regulation 5(e) requires in non-residential buildings with more than 10 car parking spaces installation of at least 1 recharging point and ducting infrastructure for 1 in every 5 car parking spaces as follows: ‘A building (other than a dwelling) which has more than 10 car parking spaces, that is: (i) new, or (ii) subject to subparagraph (g), undergoing major renovation, shall have installed at least one recharging point and ducting infrastructure (consisting of conduits for electric cables) for at least one in every 5 car parking spaces to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles.’ Regulation 5(f) requires in residential buildings with more than 10 car parking spaces installation of ducting infrastructure for every car parking space as follows: ‘A building (containing one, or more than one, dwelling), which has more than 10 car parking spaces, that is: (i) new, or (ii) subject to subparagraph (g), undergoing major renovation, shall have installed ducting infrastructure (consisting of conduits for electric cables) for each car parking space to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles.’ Question 10: Are the required provisions enough to provide for users of electrical cars? Response 10: The Regulations have been transposed in accordance with the Energy Performance of Buildings Amending Directive 2018/844 via the EU (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 393 of 2021). Climate Action Plan 2021 provides further actions for the role out of EV recharging infrastructure.

Q & A Part 1 ‘The primary responsibility for compliance with the requirements of the Building Regulations rests with the designers, builders and owners of buildings. Interpretation of the legislation is, ultimately, a matter for the Courts and implementation of the Building Control system is a matter for the local Building Control Authority. This Department has no function in assessing whether any particular proposal complies with the Building Regulations. Enforcement of the Building Regulations is a matter for the local Building Control Authority.’ Question 1: What “actually” is a self-regulating device? What if any is the difference for standards heating controls? Response 1: Technical Guidance Document (TGD) L 2021 Dwellings/ Buildings other than Dwellings defines a self-regulating device as follows: ‘self-regulating devices provide for the separate regulation of the temperature in each room or in a designated heated zone of the dwelling/ building.’ Question 2: Is there any guidance on the likely capacity needed for EV charging, is it 7kW, 22kW, 56kW, 126KW? and does it link back to the Landlord board or the tenant board and is it managed by an external company. Response 2: TGD L 2021 provides guidance for Electric Vehicle recharging infrastructure; guidance for dwellings is included under Paragraphs 1.4.6 and 2.3.9 of TGD L 2021 Dwellings, and guidance for buildings other than dwellings is included under Paragraphs 1.4.7 and 2.3.6 of TGD L 2021 Buildings other than Dwellings. The technical guidance provides that: ‘all recharging points should be installed in accordance with the general wiring rules and safety requirements as outlined in the National Rules for Electrical Installations I.S. 10101:2020’ TGD L 2021 Dwellings Paragraph 1.4.6.2 and TGD L 2021 Buildings other than Dwellings Paragraph 1.4.7.4 provide that: ‘(a) ducting infrastructure should be adequately designed to meet the full capacity of all recharging points when installed; (b) ducting infrastructure should be appropriately sized for electric vehicle recharging point capacity; (c) ducting infrastructure should be fit for purpose, capped as appropriate and clearly identified; (d) ducting infrastructure should be routed back to a suitable location with electrical supply access and adequate space provided to accommodate all recharging point ducting connections and electrical supply equipment; (e) ducting infrastructure and associated electrical equipment, etc. should be adequately designed for maintenance access; and (f) ducting infrastructure, including associated electrical equipment, etc. should be installed in accordance with the general wiring rules and safety requirements as outlined in the National Rules for Electrical Installations I.S. 10101:2020.’ The NSAI National Rules for Electrical Installations I.S. 10101:2020, Chapter 722.311 ‘Maximum demand and diversity’ provides further guidance. Question 3: Clearly the additional space and ducting requirements will add capital cost to new developments. Is there any funding, e.g., SEAI, for these additional costs? Response 3: There is no funding available for provision of the minimum requirements of the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulations 2021. However, funding may be available for other aspects of Electric Vehicle recharging infrastructure, which go beyond the requirements of the Regulations. Queries in relation to funding should be directed to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications (DECC) and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Question 4: Are you saying the EV charging can “hijack” or take over the part M parking? If a car is charging where do the wheelchair users park? Response 4: TGD L 2021 Paragraph 1.4.7.1 provides that: ‘For new buildings, where there are more than 10 car parking spaces and where the car park is located inside the building, e.g. a basement car park; or the car park is physically adjacent to the building, i.e. the car park is within the curtilage of the site, the following minimum electric vehicle recharging installation should be provided: (a) at least 1 recharging point within the meaning of Directive 2014/94/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union; (b) ducting infrastructure, consisting of conduits for electric cables, for at least 1 in every 5 car parking spaces, or part thereof, to enable the subsequent installation of recharging points for electric vehicles; (c) at least 1 accessible recharging point; or 5% of the total recharging point provision, whichever is the greater, in accordance with similar provision for accessible car parking spaces as outlined in TGD M 2010 Sub-section 1.1.5. Where only 1 recharging point is provided this should be located so that it can be used either from a standard car parking bay or from an accessible car parking bay, and where this is not possible then 2 recharging points should be provided.’ The provision in Part M for accessible car parking spaces is 5% of the total number of spaces. The provisions for EV Recharging parking bays for new buildings in Part L are separate to the requirements of Part M. Part L has specific requirements with regard to how standard recharging parking bays and accessible recharging parking bays are identified as provided for under Paragraph 1.4.7.3(c) of TGD L 2021 Buildings other than Dwellings as follows: ‘where recharging points are provided the associated parking bay should be clearly marked and consist of the words ‘Electric Vehicle Charging’ or ‘EV Charging’ written on the roadway in letters at least 350mm in height and in accordance with the visual contrast guidance provided in Section 1.6.4 of TGD M 2010. Where this is an accessible parking bay the access symbol as outlined in Diagram 8 and Diagram 9 of TGD M 2010 should also be marked on the parking bay’ Provisions for accessible EV Recharging parking pays are outlined under Paragraph 1.4.7.3(d), (e) and (g) as follows: ‘(d) where accessible recharging points are provided the guidance outlined in Section 1.1.5(k) of TGD M 2010 should be followed to allow similar space provisions for accessible recharging points; (e) where accessible recharging parking bays are provided refer to the guidance for accessible on-site car parking as outlined in Paragraph 1.1.5 of TGD M 2010. The following additional space should be provided where electric vehicle recharging infrastructure is installed: · provision of an additional 1200mm access zone to the front of the perpendicular parking bay illustrated in Diagram 8 of TGD M 2010; and · provision of an additional 1200mm access zone to the kerbside of the parallel parking bay illustrated in Diagram 9 of TGD M 2010; (g) where ducting infrastructure is provided for future installation of recharging points, consideration should be given to the accessible space requirements needed if recharging points were installed at these locations.’ Similar space provisions are included under Paragraph 1.4.6.1 of TGD L 2021 Dwellings. In existing buildings Paragraph 2.3.6.4 of TGD L 2021 Buildings other than Dwellings and Paragraph 2.1.3 of the Energy Performance of Buildings Regulation 2021 Technical Guidance provide that: ‘Where only 1 recharging point is provided in a car park with accessible spaces this should be located so that it can be used either from a standard car parking bay or from an accessible car parking bay. Where this is not possible then 2 recharging points should be provided, one of which should serve the existing accessible car parking bay.’ Question 5: How big is a small to medium enterprise? 500 employees? Response 5: The European Union (Energy Performance of Buildings) Regulations 2021, S.I 393 of 2021, defines a small or medium-sized enterprise as having: ‘the meaning it has in Title I of the Annex to Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC of 6 May 2003 concerning the definition of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises.’ As defined in Title I of the Annex to Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC of 6 May 2003 a small or medium-sized enterprise is: ‘made up of enterprises which employ fewer than 250 persons and which have an annual turnover not exceeding €50 million, and/ or an annual balance sheet total not exceeding €43 million.’

Q&A

• Question 1 Would a detached single-storey building in the rear garden of a dwelling, used as a home office, be considered ancillary to the dwelling? • Answer 1 No, as part of the requirement for an exemption in this regard, the ancillary building should not be used for any trade, business or human habitation. “(d) a single storey building (other than one described in (c)) ancillary to a dwelling (such as a summer house, poultry-house, aviary, conservatory, coal shed, garden tool shed or bicycle shed) which is used exclusively for recreational or storage purposes or the keeping of plants, birds or animals for domestic purposes and is not used for the purposes of any trade or business or for human habitation……...” A home office should theoretically require a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) application in the eyes of the legislation. Best to talk with the Building Control Authority (BCA) in question for further information. • Question 2 Hello. Does a Part 8 (council built) Social Housing development require a Fire Certificate if duplexes are included? Cheers. • Answer 2 Suggest reaching out to the Building Control Authority in the area - a Duplex flat or maisonette would require a Fire Safety Certificate (FSC) application (building containing a flat). • Question 3 What Dispensations and Relaxations are commonly requested/granted under B1 - B5? • Answer 3 From my perspective, it is rare to get a dispensation or relaxation request under Part B given the life safety risk. Remember the dispensation or relaxation is from the Regulation, not the guidance documents. The regulations are performance-based not prescriptive like the guidance documents… “Regulation B1 - a building shall be so designed and constructed that there are adequate means of escape…...” So, a relaxation/dispensation under this Regulation would mean that the building would not be designed and constructed so that there are adequate means of escape??? The Building Control Authority (BCA) will determine whether the application complies with the Regulations - no matter what guidance is used, or compensatory measures are applied. • Question 4 What happens if there is a disagreement between the FO and DC/AC? • Answer 4 Any decisions made by the Building Control Authority (BCA) can be appealed to An Bord Pleanála if there is a disagreement. • Question 5 Should all deviations from BS 9999 or applicable standard be justified in a FSCR? • Answer 5 Need more clarification on this one - what are the deviations? Management practices or design? At the end of the day, the Building Control Authority (BCA) is assessing the application against Parts B1 - B5 regardless of the guidance document used to demonstrate compliance. If there are deviations from the relevant standards, then they need to be clearly communicated and clarified as to why there are deviations and what compensatory measures are being applied as a result.

0:31 vox.fyi

Thank you to the National Building Control Office for organising this event. It was a pleasure working with you.

Excellent presentation from NBCO/Svetlana. Very comprehensive overview of Fire Doors in Dwelling.

Questions & Answers Question 1 Hi, in a timber-frame house, party wall in the attic, that is double boarded (pink/red fire board) with the joints staggered, do these boards need to be taped and jointed and screw/staple holes filled? Answer 1 Where the plasterboards provide contribution to the fire resistance requirements, based on any of Gyproc’s test evidence the outer layer boards on both sides of the framing would be required to be taped and jointed and screw heads spotted. Question 2 What is a green board suitable for? Answer 2 Within the Gyproc range of plasterboards there are two green faced plasterboards. The more commonly used Gyproc Moisture Resistant Wallboard (12.5mm or 15mm) is suitable for end user environments of intermittently high humidity e.g., a bathroom. It can be substituted and benchmarked against the equivalent thickness of Gyproc WallBoard in respect to fire resistance and airborne sound insulation contribution to a system specification. Note that Gyproc also have another green faced plasterboard, 19mm CoreBoard supplied 3000mm x 598mm. The CoreBoard product combines moisture resistance with enhanced fire characteristics and is used as an integral component of the Gyproc ShaftWall system. The shaft side of a ShaftWall is often facing an unheated space where relative humidity could be higher. Question 3 Can you clarify if all trussed roofs require fire protection or just when a 3rd storey is introduced? Answer 3 The Supplementary Guidance document to TGD B Vol.2 sets out three scenarios where a trussed rafter may need to offer fire resistance 1. In dwellings where the trussed rafter is above a protected corridor/stairwell. This would typically be the case where the dwelling moves into the 3rd storey with a more traditional trussed rafter is creating a space for a cold attic space above. 2. It also includes reference to where the trussed rafter is the ceiling above a designated fire escape route from an upper storey. This could be the case in a community dwelling falling within the remit of purpose group 1d where there needs to be 30 minutes fire resistance to corridors and stairwells regardless of number of storeys. 3. The 3rd scenario relates to building with ‘dormer’ style trusses where there is a habitable zone within the truss. With the truss structurally linked to the 30-minute floor of this habitable area it needs to maintain 30 minutes around all other knee wall and ceiling boundaries of the habitable zone. Such situations could occur in 1.5 storey dwellings. Question 4 How do insulated slabs differ from uninsulated slabs from a fixing and fire resistance perspective bearing in mind the supplementary guidance and that fire resistance is based on the overall system build-up? Answer 4 There are no wall, floor or trussed rafter ceilings within the supplementary guidance that include for the use of laminated/insulated plasterboards. Where a maximum 50mm thick PIR insulation is included as a secondary insulation to the external wall, knee wall or pitched roof it is a separate insulation counter-battened over before the application of the required layers/type/thickness of plasterboard. Gyproc do not manufacture PIR insulated plasterboards so cannot offer any specific comment, but we are not aware of any such products that can currently be substantiated as part of the fire-resistant solution. If a product cannot be substantiated as part of the fire-resistant construction, it should be applied over the primary construction. However, Isover have an insulated plasterboard with a high-density mineral wool on the back of the plasterboard called InLiner F that can be substantiated by appropriate test evidence to achieve 30 minutes fire resistance as part of an overall roof construction. Question 5 Not a question, but a comment. Excellent presentation. Regarding encasement of structural steel e.g., beam or column. If using a plasterboard for encasement, then a 10mm gap between the plasterboard and steel should be maintained to reduce heat transfer directly from the plasterboard to the steel. The plasterboard will also require a frame system. Only Glasroc boards can be fixed directly against the steel section and the Glasroc boards may not need a frame and can be fixed directly to each other. May be worth discussing if it is not included in the excellent presentation? Answer 5 Thank you for your positive feedback. Yes, the presentation did not allow the time to go into lots of detail, but did highlight that even structural steel encasements, which would appear to be a board only specification must be installed as part of a substantiated system. Where Gyproc FireLine is used as part of the GypLyner Encase system, the required framing creates a minimum 10mm air gap between back of the lining plasterboards and the face of the structural steel. As such any associated detailing using Gyproc FireLine (or any other suitably recommended Gyproc plasterboard) for the purposes of fire protecting structural steel must maintain this minimum air cavity. The only exception to this is where Glasroc F FIRECASE (a specialist plasterboard) is used as part of the frameless FireCase encasement system. Question 6 Another comment, if not brought up in the presentation is the use of letter box detail for passage of services through fire rated partition/floor systems? Answer 6 In the same way that plasterboards need to be fixed around the perimeter of the plasterboards, with the exception of relatively small cable, pipe or socket box penetrations, most apertures created in drylining systems need to be suitably framed with ‘letterbox’ style detailing to support the plasterboard edges around the aperture perimeter. Unless suitably fire stopped by materials supplied and substantiated by others, it would also be best practice to continue the plasterboard face linings to fully cover the reveals of such apertures.

Nice and clear instructions.. but stuck on payment.. payment screen not showing the option to enter card details to complete payment

S.I. No. 365 of 2015 provide for Commencement Notice with Opt-Out of Statutory Certification Declaration. See, Commencement Notice Que. 5. Building designer details: required to be completed. This is the name of the person who is responsible for the design of the works or a building and the design must be in compliance with the relevant requirements of the 2nd schedule of the Building Regulations. For a Commencement Notice with an Opt-Out Declaration there is no requirement for an Assigned Certifier and the designer does not need to be a "registered professional" but must be competent. Note: section 3 of Declaration "3. I understand my statutory obligation as owner to ensure that the dwelling or extension is designed and constructed in accordance with the relevant requirements of the Second Schedule to the Building Regulations 1997 (as amended)". If you are paying for Certification it is worth going the Assigned Certifier route i.e. Commencement Notice with supporting compliance documentation route -to have a properly certified building. See also www.housing.gov.ie/sites/default/files/migrated-files/en/Legislation/DevelopmentandHousing/BuildingStandards/FileDownLoad%2C42563%2Cen.pdf

Hi, I followed your video. In the "Nominate Roles" page, in case of Commencement Notice with Opt Out Declaration, is the Designer meant to be the Assigned Certifier (in our case the engineer)? In this option there shouldn't be a Designer but rather a Certifier since this is the opt out from certifier option. Can you clarify please? Thanks for the useful video.