Solutions When Standard Approaches Do Not Work
Engineering and Design
Some buildings cannot follow deemed-to-satisfy provisions. Heritage constraints, unusual configurations, or specific operational requirements may mean standard solutions are impractical or excessively costly.
Adsero develops performance solutions for fire protection that satisfy certifiers, fire authorities, and building approval processes. Our solutions are technically sound, practically implementable, and properly documented.
When Performance Solutions Are Needed
Building Configuration Challenges
- Large open-plan spaces exceeding sprinkler coverage limits
- Atria and void spaces requiring smoke management consideration
- Unusual ceiling configurations affecting sprinkler performance
- Limited access for fire brigade intervention
- Buildings with multiple classifications and complex boundaries
Heritage and Conservation Constraints
- Restrictions on concealed services installation
- Visual impact limitations on visible equipment
- Structural limitations preventing standard equipment support
- Conservation requirements limiting system modifications
Operational Requirements
- Security requirements limiting access to fire brigade
- Process requirements preventing standard suppression approaches
- Operational continuity requirements during system maintenance
- Specialised storage or process hazards not addressed by standard provisions
Existing Building Upgrades
- Existing construction limiting new system installation
- Inadequate water supplies for full deemed-to-satisfy systems
- Cost-prohibitive full compliance upgrades
- Staged upgrade programs requiring interim compliance pathways
What We Deliver
Performance solutions documented alternative solutions demonstrating Building Code compliance
Compliance Analysis
Detailed assessment of relevant performance requirements and how the proposed solution addresses each requirement.
Engineering Justification
Technical analysis supporting the proposed approach, including calculations, modelling results, and reference to published research or precedent.
Comparative Assessment
Comparison of the proposed solution against deemed-to-satisfy provisions, demonstrating equivalent or better outcomes.
Risk Assessment
Identification of residual risks and proposed management measures where performance solution outcomes differ from deemed-to-satisfy approaches.
Conditions and Limitations
Clear documentation of any conditions, limitations, or ongoing requirements associated with the performance solution.
Hydraulic Calculations
- Sprinkler system hydraulic analysis
- Hydrant system flow and pressure calculations
- Combined system analysis for complex installations
- Water supply adequacy assessment
- Pump and tank sizing calculations
BCA Compliance Documentation
- Fire protection compliance assessment
- Compliance certificates and statements
- Supporting calculations and analysis
- Responses to certifier and authority queries
Our Process
Understand the Challenge
Every performance solution starts with understanding what you are trying to achieve and why standard approaches do not work. We review your project documentation and constraints.
Develop the Approach
We develop a technical approach that addresses Building Code performance requirements while working within your constraints.
Consult Stakeholders
Performance solutions require acceptance by building certifiers and, often, fire authorities. We engage with these stakeholders early.
Document the Solution
We prepare comprehensive documentation that clearly explains the proposed solution and provides technical justification.
Support Approval
We respond to queries from certifiers and authorities, provide additional information where required, and support your project through the approval process.
Ongoing Compliance
Some performance solutions include ongoing conditions or requirements. We can assist with documenting these and establishing compliance monitoring processes.
Who This Is For
Property Developers
With projects that cannot achieve compliance through standard approaches and need engineered solutions.
Architects
Designing buildings where fire protection constraints are shaping building form and who need engineering input to resolve conflicts.
Heritage Consultants
Working on heritage buildings where fire protection upgrades must respect conservation requirements.
Building Certifiers
Seeking independent engineering assessment and documentation for complex fire protection compliance matters.
Building Owners
Facing fire authority requirements that seem impossible to satisfy within building constraints.
Project Managers
Coordinating complex projects where fire protection is a critical path issue requiring engineering resolution.
Engineering Rigour
Performance solutions are assessed critically by certifiers and fire authorities. Solutions that lack technical rigour or clear documentation will be rejected, delaying your project and potentially requiring costly redesign.
Adsero brings engineering discipline to performance solution development:
- Qualified Engineers
Our team includes registered Professional Mechanical Engineers. Engineering analysis and documentation reflect these qualifications.
- RPEQ Registered
Registration with the Board of Professional Engineers of Queensland demonstrates competency to practise professional engineering in Queensland.
- Construction Experience
Practical experience in construction means our solutions are buildable, not just theoretical.
- Clear Documentation
Our reports are structured, logical, and written to be understood by all stakeholders.
Complex Problems Require Engineering Solutions
When your project faces constraints that standard approaches cannot accommodate, you need engineering analysis to find a path forward. Contact Adsero to discuss your situation.