Australia’s leading fastener supplier is urging construction firms to bolt down on the latest raft of National Construction Code changes or risk being screwed by hefty fines.
Updates to the nation’s structural building standards and NCC have left businesses and tradies at risk, and many still need to be made aware of the new rules, according to Hobson Engineering.
Fasteners used in structural engineering must now comply with the latest AS/NZS 1252 Standards, including the most significant change — the creation of a new Part 2, titled ‘Verification testing for bolt assemblies’.
The new part of the legislation describes a form of third-party conformity assessment to formalise testing specifications and ensure that products comply with Australian standards.
Hobson Engineering says a lack of awareness surrounding the new rules and construction firms trying to save a few bucks by importing below-standard third-party fastening products were opening themselves up to significant legal risk.
“Many non-conforming structural bolts are still circulating in the Australian market,” A Hobson Engineering spokesperson said.
“It is critical to detect these before it is too late and ensure that all fasteners are up to code.”
“Don’t take the chance with non-conforming products.”
The fastener, bolt, nut and screw manufacturer, whose stock complies with NCC standards, warned that opting to use non-compliant products in any structural engineering construction not only invited the chance of legal consequences but also could result in significant health and safety concerns.
“These standards clearly explain the expectations for structural fasteners,” the spokesperson said.
“It is crucial that all structural fasteners fully uphold the specifications… failure to conform is unacceptable and puts lives in danger.”
AS/NZS 1252.2 defines:
- Correct type and range of testing samples
- Specific required tests
- Necessary credentials for testing laboratories
- Review of test outcomes
- Form and extent of reporting
- Attestation of conformity as a Supplier Declaration of Conformity (SDoC)
Heavy fines apply
As part of the new regulations, importers must separately specify bolts to AS/NZS 1252.1 and verification testing to AS/NZS 1252.2 with those that do not comply in violation of the National Construction Code (NCC), which can incur heavy penalties.
However, despite the consequences, some construction firms may still be tempted to use up remaining non-compliant stock or seek cheap alternatives overseas — some of which are incorrectly marked as NCC-approved.
“The risk is not worth it as any savings from using these products are overshadowed by the high costs incurred by not following the standard, including quality, safety and legal consequences,” Hobson Engineering says.
“As overseas manufacturers are not required to adhere to Australian standards, the responsibility lies with importers to ensure that products conform.”
“Don’t make the expensive mistake of using non-conforming products; instead, trust fasteners that observe structural standards.”
