We often get “Questions” from clients on defects related to services in a path of travel. Generally speaking these can be resolved with some Raven Smoke seals, and a sheet of cement sheet on the door (Or similar)
Generally, the cause for concern relates to AV distribution on the apartment floor in a small cupboard. The NCC (2019) states the following;
Clause D2.7 – Installations in exits and paths of travel in NCC 2019 Building Code of Australia – Volume One states that there are specific limitations on services permitted within an exit or the paths of travel to a required exit. The restrictions include;
- Access to service shafts and services other than to fire-fighting or detection equipment as permitted in the Deemed- to-Satisfy Provisions of Section E, must not be provided from a fire-isolated stairway, fire-isolated passageway or fire-isolated ramp.
- An opening to any chute or duct intended to convey hot products of combustion from a boiler, incinerator, fireplace or the like, must not be located in any part of a required exit or any corridor, hallway, lobby or the like leading to a required exit.
- Gas or other fuel services
- Services or equipment comprising—
- electricity meters, distribution boards or ducts; or
- central telecommunications distribution boards or equipment; or
- electrical motors or other motors serving equipment in the building, may be installed in—
- a required exit, except for fire-isolated exits specified in (a); or
- in any corridor, hallway, lobby or the like leading to a required exit, if the services or equipment are enclosed by non-combustible construction or a fire-protective covering with doorways or openings suitably sealed against smoke spreading from the enclosure.
- Electrical wiring may be installed in a fire-isolated exit if the wiring is associated with—
- a lighting, detection, or pressurisation system serving the exit; or
- a security, surveillance or management system serving the exit; or
- an intercommunication system or an audible or visual alarm system in accordance with D2.22; or
- the monitoring of hydrant or sprinkler isolating valves.
Now this means essentially you CAN NOT have equipment like TV disrubitions systems or network equipment in the floor cupboard, unless it is smoke seperated.
Depending on your consultants, you MAY BE able to have equipment not smoke separated associated with lighting, security intercoms, etc. But this will come down to the people involved in the project.
AS 3000 has the following in relation to the restricted locations.
AS3000-Clause-2.9.2.4-Main-SB-Location-Signage