building code

This paper shows the results of a survey conducted among 10 AIVC members countries about air quality in garages and current requirements and regulations in this regard. Large differences were found among countries, not only in terms of the scope of the regulations, but also in relation to the parameters that are considered.  

The aim of this 24 months' project is to create a European network in the area of indoor air pollution with the listing of priority substances to be regulated indoors, recommendations, legislation... at world scale.

In recent years, poor indoor climate has caused health problems for building occupants. Sometimes these problems have been so serious that these buildings have, quite rightly, been labelled sick buildings.Today, there is good evidence in some areas as to why such problems arise. Unhealthy substances given off by various building materials, the existence of mould and general air pollution are the main causes. Another important factor is the high level of humidity in buildings and indoor air.In general, the most important way to remedy the problem is to improve ventilation.

With the application of part L2 of the Building Regulations in the UK, new buildings with excessive air leakage have no longer been acceptable. All new commercial and public building over 1000 m2 must be tested for airtightness. An air permeability formula measures the envelope of walls, roof and ground floor area. This paper explains why bother about air leakage, and what desginers and constructors must do, and how the testing for airtightness should be carried out. The essential message is : build tight - ventilate right.

Current approach for design and installation of mechanical ventilation systems in houses is described in the framework of Canadian building codes and standards, which contain requirements about air change rates, air distribution, sound level, interference with other systems or building envelope.

The central subject of this Workshop was the challenge offered by energy performance regulations to find adequate solutions for the integration of innovative technologies in such regulations.

This study examines a broad range of implications associated with the adoption of the National Energy Code for Housing (NECH) in Ontario. It is based on Public Review Draft 1.0 of the NECH. This study compares the OBC and the NECH providing commentary on key differences between the documents. It examines the energy, environmental and industry implications of adopting the NECH in Ontario. It reviews the cost implications of adoption from a capital, energy and life cycle viewpoint while examining environmental costs by monetizing space heating equipment emissions.

The Centre for Building Performance Research at Victoria University School of Architecture has recently concluded R&D for the Energy Efficiency Clause of the New Zealand Building Code. This report, contributed to the BEPAC Newsletter, discusses some of the issues that arose in the course of the work.