NZ Building Code Compliance

D1 Access routes

Safety of entry/exit to the building and the safety of any internal or external stairs.

This clause ensures people can move safely into, within and out of buildings. Access routes include the approach to the main entrance of a building, corridors, doors, stairs, ramps and lifts.

It sets out requirements for:

• slip resistance, stair treads, handrails and cross falls
• people with disabilities to carry out normal functions within buildings
• the movement, loading and parking of vehicles.

https://www.building.govt.nz/building-code-complia...

F4 Safety from falling

Safe design of all barriers inside and outside the building.

F4 confirms buildings are constructed to reduce the likelihood of accidental fall. It requires barriers where people could fall 1 metre or more. The provisions include barriers for roofs with permanent access. It sets the characteristics required of barriers, for example, being continuous for the full extent of hazard, and having appropriate rigidity, strength and height.

From 1 January 2017, the Building (Pools) Amendment Act 2016 deleted clauses F4.3.3, F4.3.4(f), and F4.3.5 relating to swimming pool barriers.

Restricting access to residential pools has further information for pool owners and territorial authorities.

Record of amendments is a record of changes to the Acceptable Solutions, Verification Methods and handbooks.

https://www.building.govt.nz/building-code-complia...

F9 Restricting access to residential pools

Restricting access by young children to residential pools.

On 1 January 2017 the Building (Pools) Amendment Act repealed the Fencing of Swimming Pools Act and inserted new provisions into the Building Act 2004.

The Amendment Act created Building Code clause F9.

Building Code clause F9 – Means of restricting access to residential pools on the Legislation website sets out requirements for restricting access to residential pools.

This clause has the requirements to prevent unsupervised access by children under five years of age to residential pools. It requires barriers around pools to restrict unsupervised access by children. Barriers can include gates and suitably constructed doors. Some small heated pools may have a removable cover rather than a surrounding barrier.

F9/AS1 provides the Acceptable Solution for swimming pool barriers in general. F9/AS2 provides the Acceptable Solution for covers which may be used on above ground small heated pools.

The Building Act now requires residential pools to be inspected every three years by territorial authorities or independently qualified pool inspectors (IQPIs).

Independently qualified pool inspectors on Trading Standards’ pool inspector website has more information.

Manufacturer and retailer notices has information about notices that manufacturers and retailers must supply with pools.

Prior to 1 January 2017, determinations about pool safety were issued relating to Building Code clause F4. These determinations provide some useful guidance for Building Code clause F9.

If you have questions or need guidance about your pool fencing compliance please contact your local council.