Building Business October 2025

Page 1


Building

Why

INDUSTRY

But wait, there’s more! Building rule changes ramp up 10 - 12

INDUSTRY NEWS

Why building a garage, sleep-out or granny flat might not be as easy as it appears 12

CODEWORDS

Understanding clause E2 of the New Zealand Building Code: A critical guide for LBPs 14 - 15

KNOWLEDGE The smart façade screw from SPAX. 16

Building inspection fails: The real truth behind the numbers

The rate of building inspection fails in Auckland made the news recently, but the person who knows most about it says the data paints a different picture from what some of the alarmist headlines might suggest.

Auckland Council’s Chief Building Inspector, Jeff Fahrensohn, wants to put things in perspective, saying there seems to be too much focus on the negative and not enough on the success rate. Most of the problems are not major issues, and your typical builder is doing a “bloody good job”.

“Around 75% are passing the first time. So, the failure rate is around 25%, and many of those things are not show-stopping issues, and in some cases, are due to not having the right up-to-date building code information.

“The majority of the ones that don’t pass in the first time can be put down to not being aware of building code changes or human error, which we know happens. We make mistakes ourselves, and it’s important to learn from them.”

Smoke detectors and deadlocks

There are several common oversights even the best builders inadvertently do, says Jeff, and forgetting to fit smoke alarms after the painters have finished is right up there, but with a twist.

“Regulations have changed. A lot of builders don’t realise that nowadays, smoke alarms must be interconnected, whereas before, they were not. So, it’s not an easy fix if you didn’t know that upfront.

“Deadlocks are another example. Updated regulations mean they cannot be used on any doors used to escape a house in the event of fire, something that was not an issue previously.

“We see a lot of fails due to simple things the builder didn’t know. When code changes are made, it’s often not picked up because they’re too busy on the tools.

“That’s one of the reasons why we attend so many builders forums and give presentations, because it’s another way of spreading the information about changes to the building code.”

Dodgy builders scarce as hen’s teeth

Jeff is concerned that some media stories focus too much on the negative, the cases of dodgy builders taking shortcuts to skirt building regulations and scam the system.

“In reality, it’s a very tiny percentage. We’re currently doing around 200,000 inspections a year and the estimated number of fails due to a deliberate attempt by a tradesperson to try it on is less than 0.5% and I see that decreasing.

“We could go for several weeks or even months without coming across a builder trying to cut corners that results in a major compliance breach. We currently have a very busy person employed fulltime to investigate Licensed Building Practitioners who have a track record of non-compliance or low quality. We have such good data, and with the licencing system, it’s very easy to investigate and report these as official LBP complaints.

“I really want to emphasise that there is good stuff happening out there, and it’s very easy to get stuck in the doom and gloom. The typical hardworking builder is doing a bloody good job.”

The most common building inspection fails

By category, these are the main reasons for individual inspection fails in Auckland (residential and commercial) last year.

Framing (32%)

1. Wall bracing connections not installed correctly or missing

2. Steel beams and fixings non-compliant

3. Timber beams and fixings non-compliant

4. Top and bottom plate sizes and fixings incorrect

5. Wall framing point load stud locations/fixings incorrect

Cladding (25%)

1. Cladding junction details not installed correctly

2. Cladding fixings incorrect

3. Cladding integrity or damage

4. Roof flashings incomplete

5. Non-compliance cladding clearances (to ground, roofs, other materials)

Cavity wrap (30%)

1. Flashings at junctions not installed correctly

2. Head, sill, jamb flashings or support bars not installed correctly

3. Building wrap and restraint too loose, inadequate laps or holes

4. Apron flashing support, size or end detail (e.g. kickout) non-compliant

5. Pipe penetrations not installed correctly (falls and tape flashings)

Foundations (17%)

1. Piles footing sizes incorrect

2. Piles sizes and heights incorrect

3. Set out on site, not as per plan

4. Drain bridging non-compliant

5. Strip foundation width, depth or layout not as per plan

6. Strip foundations reinforcing size, grade, laps or bends non-compliant

7. Surface water control non-compliant

8. Silt and erosion control not installed

9. Insufficient concrete cover to foundation reinforcing

10. Inadequate ground or soil conditions

Drainage (14%)

1. Drainage as-built plan not onsite

2. Stormwater not as per design

3. Drain test failed

4. Rainwater tank type, location and installation not as per design

5. Pipework trench width/ depth or bedding incorrect

Pre-line (36%)

1. Timber framing moisture content too high

2. Joinery not installed correctly (includes air seals)

3. Corner steel angles for tiles not installed

4. Balustrade or barrier framing not structurally adequate or too low

5. Insulation installation non-compliant

Slab (13%)

1. Raft Slab size, layout, thickness or shape incorrect

2. Inadequate reinforcing concrete cover

3. Insufficient mesh and reinforcing size or laps

4. Inadequate under-slab hardfill, blinding or DPM

5. Hardfill or blinding not run out past slab edge enough

Final inspection (37%)

1. Smoke alarms not installed or interconnected

2. Cladding penetrations and junctions not adequately weathertight

3. Inadequate clearances between cladding to the finished ground level

4. Non-compliant entry stairs, landing, handrail or barriers

5. Drainage: ORG / gully trap installed incorrectly

6. Flashings incomplete or not weathertight

7. Window/door joinery not weathertight

8. Hot water temperature too hot

9. Hot water cylinder installation non-compliant

10. Inadequate clearances between finished floor level and ground level

Source: Auckland City Council 2024 data

WHEN LOOKING TOUGH IS NOT ENOUGH CORE1400-5 (6m reach height)

$3,469 * Excl

*Toe Board not included LITTLE GIANT LEVELER

• Built-in leg levelers

• Tip & Glide wheels

• Rapid locks

• Welded rungs

LLV4 (4 -14 step )

$425 Excl LLV5 (5 -18 step )

$521 Excl LLV6 (6 -22 step )

$679 Excl

Why it’s crucial for LBPs to make sure a building consent is issued before starting work

Codewords article provided by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

Not having a building consent has been a key theme in complaints to the Building Practitioners Board recently. This is the first in a series of articles looking at recurring reasons for complaints about LBPs.

In New Zealand’s construction industry, Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) play a vital role in maintaining the integrity, safety, and compliance of building projects.

One of the most critical responsibilities of an LBP is to make sure that a building consent has been issued before any physical work begins, if a consent is necessary for that work. This is not just an administrative formality - it is a legal obligation that can seriously affect the practitioner, the client, and the wider community.

Legal compliance and accountability

Under the Building Act 2004, most building work requires a building consent issued by the local council. This includes structural work, plumbing, drainage, and any alterations that affect the building’s safety or functionality.

LBPs are held to a higher standard of accountability due to their professional status and are expected to understand and follow the legal requirements.

Starting work without a building consent goes against the Building Act and can lead to serious consequences, including fines, disciplinary action by the Building Practitioners Board, and even prosecution. For LBPs, this could mean losing their license, damaging their reputation, and facing financial penalties.

Making sure there is a consent protects the practitioner from these risks and reinforces their commitment to professional standards.

Protecting the client and the project

Clients rely on LBPs for expert guidance and assurance that their building project will be completed safely and legally.

If work begins without a building consent, the client may face delays, increased costs, and legal complications. For example, councils can issue a Notice to Fix, which means the work must stop until the client gets consent.

By making sure that a building consent has been issued, LBPs protect their clients from these disruptions. It also confirms that the project can obtain a Code Compliance Certificate (CCC) upon completion. This is essential for future property transactions, insurance, and financing.

Quality and safety

Building consents are not just about paperwork— they make sure that construction meets the New Zealand Building Code.

The consent process involves detailed checks by council officers, including structural integrity, fire safety, moisture control, and energy efficiency. These checks help keep people safe and make sure buildings meet proper standards.

LBPs who start work without a building consent skip an important safety check, which can compromise the strength and safety of the building. Waiting for consent shows that LBPs take quality and public safety seriously.

Professional integrity and reputation

The construction industry in New Zealand is built on trust, professionalism, and transparency. LBPs are expected to uphold these values in every aspect of their work.

Starting a project without a building consent breaks the trust placed in the LBP and can damage their reputation among peers, clients, and regulatory bodies.

A strong professional reputation is key to long-term success. LBPs who consistently follow best practices - including checking consents - are more likely to receive repeat business, positive referrals, and industry recognition.

Avoiding future liability

Doing building work without a consent can lead to serious legal and financial problems later on. Even if the work is done well, the Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) could still be held responsible if something goes wrong, such as structural issues or failing to meet the Building Code. Insurance companies may not cover any damage, and future owners may take legal action or seek compensation for the damage.

By getting a building consent before starting work, LBPs protect themselves. It shows they’ve followed the rules and provides a clear record of compliance. This can be particularly helpful in the event of any disputes or inspections in the future.

Conclusion

For LBPs in New Zealand, getting building consent before starting work isn’t optional—it’s a key responsibility. It protects the builder, the client, and the building itself. It also shows the work meets legal standards and supports safety, quality, and professionalism.

In an industry built on trust and expertise, LBPs need to set the standard. Checking that a consent is in place is a simple yet powerful way to demonstrate leadership and ensure every project starts on the right foot.

Look out for more key themes in complaints to the Board in upcoming Codewords articles.

Codewords

Quiz

1. What is the primary legal document that governs building consent requirements in New Zealand?

a) Resource Management Act 1991

b) Building Act 2004

c) Health and Safety at Work Act 2015

2. What could happen if an LBP begins building work without a valid building consent?

a) The project may be eligible for fasttrack approval

b) The LBP could receive a commendation for efficiency

c) The LBP may face fines, disciplinary action, or prosecution

d) The building will automatically be deemed compliant

3. What does obtaining a building consent help verify about the proposed building work?

a) That it meets the New Zealand Building Code

b) That it will be completed within budget

c) That it uses only locally sourced materials

d) That a registered architect designs it

ADD TO YOUR LBP ACTIVITY LOG

This article is from Codewords Issue 126.

Log in to the LBP portal lbp.govt.nz (or scan the QR code) and update your Skills Maintenance activities.

• Remains

But wait, there’s more! Building rule changes ramp up

The Government’s relentless quest to cut red tape and overhaul building regulations continues apace, with a spate of new initiatives recently announced. Here’s a roundup of what’s coming down the pipeline and what it means for builders.

Sheds, garages, sleepouts and offices

Boundary regulations are about to be eased for secondary buildings on residential sites, including sheds, garages, sleepouts and small offices.

After the new law changes are put in place, singlestorey structures with a floor plan up to 10m² can be built right up to the boundary of a property, and buildings from 10-30m² can be sited 1 metre from a boundary.

The current rules require these types of structures to be the same distance from the boundary as they are high.

The announcement was made with a sense of theatre by David Seymour at a small suburban property in Auckland with a garden shed wrapped in red tape.

“We’ve heard the frustration about this regulation through the Red Tape Tipline. Section sizes are shrinking, and the cost of living is rising. Forcing people to put sheds in the middle of their lawn or pay for a consent to store tools doesn’t make sense.”

Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk said the legislative changes should be in force by the end of the year.

He said that the rule did not apply to granny flats due to the fire risks associated with kitchen facilities.

Building code changes on hold for three years

Another change the Government is pursuing is a no-change policy for the Building Code for three years, claiming the pause will provide more certainty for designers and builders.

Until now, the Building Code has been subject to rolling reviews, which are conducted on an ad hoc basis. Changes are often made with little notice. The new proposal is to introduce a 3-year cycle for building code reviews to avoid the disruption caused by the current system.

Announcing the change, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk commented that the building sector has faced significant disruption over the past few years, with the pandemic, supply chain challenges and a boom-bust cycle making things unpredictable.

“Builders, designers and developers need a clear runway to plan ahead and invest with confidence, and ad hoc changes to Building Code requirements make that difficult.”

The first regular cycle of Building Code system updates is scheduled to take place in 2028.

BRANZ approval waived for some imported building products

The Government is clearing the way to allow a broader range of imported building products to be used in New Zealand, without the requirement for BRANZ appraisal or certification.

The Overseas Building Products, Standards, and Certification Schemes Amendment Bill recognises certain international specifications and certifications that are consistent with New Zealand Building Code standards.

It means that thousands of imported building products, including plasterboard, cladding, insulation, doors and windows, will be widely accepted by building consent authorities.

It enables the recognition of overseas standards and standards certification schemes, thereby removing the need for designers, builders or BCAs to verify standards.

A new Building Code document called ‘Building Product Specifications’ is being created that lists all assessed building product specifications considered equivalent to those currently used, allowing builders and designers to easily identify those that comply with the Building Code. Regulations are expected to be developed this month.

Liability reforms and a more consistent building consent system

Heralded as the Biggest Building Consent System Reform in Decades, the Government announced in August that it would change the rules around who pays for remedial work when buildings are faulty, and would

allow councils around the country to combine their consenting work.

Both measures are designed to improve the efficiency of delivering new homes and infrastructure, reduce costs for builders and ratepayers, and boost productivity in the construction sector.

“We must remove blockages to speed up the delivery of new homes and infrastructure,” said Minister of Building and Construction Chris Penk, adding that “New Zealand’s slow consenting system is delaying projects and driving up costs, making the average standalone house here 50% more expensive to build than in Australia”.

Everyone to pay their fair share for faulty buildings

When it comes to paying for remedial work when buildings are faulty, it’s often the local council that ends up carrying the can because developers, builders, designers and subtrades don’t have the financial resources to chip in, or their companies are no longer operating or are insolvent.

Under the current system – known as joint and several liability – councils can be held liable for defects once they sign off on building consents or inspections, which means ratepayers are left footing the bill if other parties involved can’t pay.

Minister Penk says this approach will be replaced with a new one, called proportionate liability.

“Under this new model, each party will only be responsible for the share of work they carried out. Building owners will be protected if things go wrong, and we’re exploring options such as requiring professional indemnity insurance and home warranties, similar to arrangements in Australia.”

Commenting on the announcement, Nathan Speir, a legal specialist at law firm Meredith Connell, said the move would be welcomed by councils, noting that similar schemes in place in Australia had, by and large, been successful.

“With proportionate liability across the Tasman, you are not seeing a scenario we are seeing here, which is that one party is carrying a disproportionate level of the remediation cost. It’s certainly a shift worth making because the results are clear.

“Ratepayers have funded a lot of remediation projects around the country. With some of the bigger apartment claims in Auckland and other areas, you are talking about hundreds of millions of dollars to settle these claims.”

A step towards a national building consenting system?

The second major reform will allow councils to voluntarily consolidate their Building Consent Authority functions.

“It’s inefficient that builders, designers, and homeowners must navigate 66 different interpretations of the Building Code. Builders can be rejected by one council for paperwork accepted by a neighbour simply because each BCA applies the rules differently,” Minister Penk said.

The Government plans to introduce a Bill to Parliament in early 2026 to implement these reforms. Regulatory changes will support proportionate liability and BCA consolidation, including:

▶ Optional home warranties for certain projects

▶ Professional indemnity insurance requirements

▶ Allowing Territorial Authorities to transfer BCA functions to another accredited BCA

▶ Removing duplication and standardising regulations to incentivise collaboration

Why building a garage, sleep-out or granny flat might not be as easy as it appears

While proposed changes to regulations for granny flats and secondary buildings on a residential property are touted as redtape-slashing breakthroughs, other regulations can severely limit what’s possible.

The big one is site coverage. According to Medium Density Residential Standards, the maximum area of a property that buildings can cover is 50%. In some residential zones, it may be even less – 30% or 40% of the total site area.

The site coverage rules apply to most residential zones. They are designed to strike a balance between the need for housing and the provision of open space, sunlight, and effective stormwater management. Building coverage includes:

▶ The main building footprint.

▶ Accessory buildings (sheds, garages, sleepouts).

▶ Overhanging or cantilevered parts of the building that extend beyond the main structure.

▶ Eaves and spouting that project from exterior walls.

While adding additional buildings on a traditional kiwi quarter-acre residential section might be feasible, doing so on smaller sites is likely impractical.

Council oversight

Other factors that may hinder plans for adding a granny flat or secondary building include local council regulations and guidelines. For instance, many councils have expressed concerns that increased site coverage may exacerbate stormwater and flooding issues, especially in smaller areas.

While building consent may not be required for certain granny flats and some other secondary buildings under the proposed changes, the council will, in many cases, need to be notified before and after construction.

For a granny flat, you will need to apply to the council for a Project Information Memorandum (PIM) before work starts. A PIM application must have detailed information on the site and the proposed building work, including site plans, floor plans, scaled drawings, building dimensions, and information on potential hazards, storm and waste water disposal provisions, vehicle access and parking.

Understanding clause E2 of the New Zealand Building Code: A critical guide for LBPs

Codewords article provided by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.

Clause E2 of the New Zealand Building Code, called ‘External Moisture,’ helps make sure buildings stay dry, safe, and healthy. It’s especially important for restricted building work (RBW) where following moisture rules is legally required.

Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) need to fully understand Clause E2 so they can meet the rules and build weathertight homes that meet the Code.

What is Clause E2?

Clause E2 explains how buildings should be built to keep rain and moisture out. Its main goal is to stop water from getting into parts of the building like the roof, walls, windows, and doors, so it doesn’t cause damage or dampness.

The clause requires that:

▶ External moisture does not cause undue dampness or damage to building elements.

▶ Water cannot enter the building through the roof, wall claddings, or external openings.

▶ Any moisture that does get through is able to drain or evaporate without causing harm.

E2/AS1 is the ‘Acceptable Solution’ for meeting Clause E2. It’s a commonly used set of instructions that explains which materials, building methods, and design details will keep water out and meet the rules.”

What is E2/AS1?

The Acceptable Solution E2/AS1 is a practical guide that shows how to comply with the rules in Clause E2 of the Building Code. It explains how to choose and install things like roofs, walls, flashings, windows, and doors to stop water getting in. It also helps builders work out the risk of leaks based on

things like wind zone, roof overhangs, and how complex the building is.

The guide includes details on drainage systems, weathertight barriers, and sealing around openings to make sure moisture is managed properly. It’s an important tool for LBPs, especially when doing restricted building work.

Why clause E2 matters for restricted building work

Restricted building work is construction or design work that is critical to the structural integrity or weathertightness of a house or a small-to-medium sized apartment building. This includes work on the primary structure, external moisture management systems, and fire safety systems.

Clause E2 is closely linked to RBW because weathertightness is a major part of a building’s performance. If moisture isn’t managed correctly, it can lead to serious problems like:

▶ Structural degradation (for example, timber rot, corrosion of metal components)

▶ Health issues (for example, mould growth, poor indoor air quality)

▶ Costly remediation and legal disputes

Any RBW involving the building envelope must comply with Clause E2. LBPs who do this kind of work are legally responsible for making sure that their designs and construction methods meet or exceed the requirements of this clause.

The role of LBPs in making sure building work follows the rules

LBPs are trusted to do or oversee RBW. This includes:

▶ Understanding and applying the principles of Clause E2.

▶ Selecting appropriate materials and systems that comply with E2/AS1 or an alternative solution.

▶ Making sure that construction details (for example, flashings, junctions, penetrations) are done properly to stop water getting in.

LBPs also need to spot and manage risks. For example, buildings in areas with strong winds or heavy rainfall need better systems to keep water out. LBPs must adjust their building methods to match the environmental and design conditions of each project.

Training and competency

To keep their license, LBPs must regularly participate in professional development and stay up to date with changes to the Building Code. This means knowing about any updates to Clause E2 and its guidance documents like E2/AS1. These updates might include new materials, building methods, or tools for assessing risk, and LBPs need to understand and use them in their work.”

MBIE (Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment) has resources, training modules, and technical guidance to support LBPs in this area. However, in the end, it’s up to each LBP to ensure they understand how to use Clause E2 properly and feel confident doing so.

Conclusion

Clause E2 isn’t just a regulatory requirement - it helps make sure buildings in New Zealand stay safe and last a long time. For LBPs, knowing how to use Clause E2 is a key part of doing their job well. Whether they’re building a new home or fixing an old one, following E2 is important for creating strong, healthy, and high-quality buildings.

As building materials, weather conditions, and design styles keep changing, Clause E2 is becoming even more important. LBPs play a key role in making sure buildings stay dry and safe. Understanding this clause isn’t just about following rules—it’s about earning trust, protecting clients, and helping build strong, long-lasting homes and buildings.

Codewords

Quiz

1. What do the performance requirements of Clause E2 aim to protect a building from?

a) Surface water

b) External moisture

c) Internal moisture

d) All the above

2. What does Clause E2 require?

a) External moisture does not cause undue dampness or damage to building elements.

b) Water is prevented from entering the building through the roof, wall claddings, and external openings.

c) Any moisture that does penetrate is able to drain or evaporate without causing harm.

d) All the above

3. Why is Clause E2 important to LBPs?

a) Any RBW involving the building envelope must comply with Clause E2

b) Clause E2 will prevent internal moisture from damaging the building’s envelope

c) Clause E2 is directly tied to RBW because weathertightness is a core component of a building’s performance

d) Answers a and c only

e) All the above

ADD TO YOUR LBP ACTIVITY LOG

This article is from Codewords Issue 126.

Log in to the LBP portal lbp.govt.nz (or scan the QR code) and update your Skills Maintenance activities.

Don‘t get caught out by rain!

The Smart Facade Screw from SPAX

for a certain amount of time! It's important that we design and build façades appropriately for the environmental conditions and use suitable materials.

Timber cladding has natural movement

Why do we put facades on our buildings? A facade protects the building structure and insulation from the elements. An unprotected building structure is like standing in the rain with no clothes on. You’ll get cold, wet and will only survive for a certain amount of time! This fact is often overlooked when designing and building new structures - especially in the past with all the leaky homes we have all seen and heard about. It is important that we design and build facades appropriately for the environmental conditions and use suitable materials.

Timber has become a popular cladding material for domestic, commercial and industrial buildings. It is an attractive, natural and environmentally-friendly solution. However, fastening the timber cladding boards to the substructure can be problematic.

Timber has become a popular cladding material for domestic, commercial and industrial buildings. It is an attractive, natural and environmentally-friendly solution. However, fastening the timber cladding boards to the substructure can be problematic.

When using traditional fastening methods like nails and standard countersunk screws, problems can often occur, such as nail and screw heads protruding, splitting and loosening of the timber boards due to natural movement of the timber. Many buildings have their lifespan considerably reduced due to penetrating moisture.

When using traditional fastening methods like nails and standard countersunk screws, problems can often occur, such as nail and screw heads protruding, splitting and loosening of the timber boards due to natural movement of the timber. Many buildings have their lifespan considerably reduced due to penetrating moisture.

expand naturally in wet weather and shrink in hot, dry weather. The SPAX fixing thread under the head clamps the façade to the sub-structure, locking the boards firmly in place, while working with the timber during expansion and contraction, so loose boards, protruding screw heads and premature failures are a thing of the past.

SPAX has developed another smart solution with the SPAX double-thread facade screw. This SPAX screw is designed to work with the timber rather than against it, allowing the timber boards to expand naturally in wet weather and shrink in hot, dry weather. The SPAX fixing thread under the head clamps the facade to the sub-structure, locking the boards firmly in place, while working with the timber during expansion and contraction, so loose boards, protruding screw heads and premature failures are a thing of the past.

SPAX has a smart fastening solution for all different cladding profiles and materials with this new range of specially designed screws. SPAX facade screws are made of quality stainless steel and come in standard and antique colours. All SPAX screws are manufactured in Germany to the highest standards.

SPAX has a smart fastening solution for all different cladding profiles and materials with this new range of specially designed screws. SPAX façade screws are made of quality stainless steel and come in standard and antique colours. All SPAX screws are manufactured in Germany to the highest standards.

SPAX recommends timber cladding be sealed with an appropriate, good-quality timber sealer before attaching it.

We recommend timber cladding to be sealed before attaching with an appropriate, good quality timber sealer. If you really want to protect your investment and live in a healthy home environment, then make sure you don’t overlook the importance of a well designed facade and the materials it is made from.

SPAX Facade Screw with fixing thread

plus Raised countersunk head with milled ribs Fixing thread
Serration 4CUT point

Asbestos – the silent harm

Key facts

▶ Around 220 people die every year from asbestos-related illness. It’s our country’s number one work-related killer.

▶ Builders are at a higher risk of coming across asbestos when doing renovations, repairs or demolitions, especially on older buildings.

▶ Site Safe and WorkSafe New Zealand have joined forces on new training to give tradies the knowledge they need to stay well at work.

Materials containing asbestos that are in a good condition and left untouched, aren’t a risk. But once disturbed, asbestos can release fibres into the air. The fibres, which are so small they can’t be seen by the human eye, can get stuck in the lungs, causing significant illness like cancer.

That’s why it’s important to know about asbestos. Businesses and workers must do everything possible to keep themselves and their coworkers safe.

Rob Birse, a technical specialist at WorkSafe, says that just because asbestos is no longer imported into New Zealand, does not mean the problem has gone away.

“Asbestos is a hazardous material widely used in construction before the late 1980s. You’ll still find it in old homes, workplaces and public buildings. When left alone, it’s not a threat – but as we know, tradies, especially builders, often come across it in their dayto-day work,” he explains.

“Spotting it, understanding the risks, and knowing how to deal with it is the best thing you can do. Prevention is the best protection.”

Brett Murray, Site Safe Chief Executive, agrees.

“Health and safety isn’t a tick box exercise. We’re not trying to scare people, but the risk is real, and people need to be switched on. We want people to get home safely at the end of the day.”

The new training course includes real, practical steps and procedures, all in line with current health and safety law.

“Whether you’re a business owner, a sole trader, or working in a crew, it’s relevant. Asbestos fibres may be a silent harm, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing we can do,” adds Rob.

“Keep safe for yourself, your workmates, and your family.”

Site Safe asbestos awareness training

Locations: Auckland, Christchurch and Wellington. Topics

▶ The different forms of asbestos, and what it looks like

▶ Where it can be found

▶ The dangers and health hazards

▶ What to do once you find it.

You’ll get

▶ A Site Safety Card, valid for 2 years. Most major New Zealand contractors require workers to have a valid Site Safety Card before entering a construction site.

▶ 4 Licensed Building Practitioner points.

▶ Unit Standard 2138 Demonstrate knowledge of asbestos and safety procedures v6 – Level 2, 1 credit.

Scan below to register for the training:

Scan below for more info on working with asbestos:

NORTHLAND

■ Bay of Islands ITM Kaikohe 09 407 7600

■ Bay of Islands ITM Paihia 09 402 7703

■ Bay of Islands ITM Waipapa 09 407 8002

■ Dargaville ITM 09 439 8730

■ Far North ITM Kaitaia 09 408 3927

■ Far North ITM Mangonui 09 406 0048

■ Mangawhai ITM 09 431 4963

■ Waipu ITM 09 432 0203

■ Whangarei ITM 09 437 9420

AUCKLAND

■ Albany ITM 09 415 6889

■ Barrier ITM Tryphena 09 429 0466

■ Dayle ITM Avondale 09 828 9791

■ Dayle ITM East Tamaki 09 274 4942

■ Dysart ITM Glen Innes 09 521 3609

■ Hillside ITM Glenfield 09 443 8101

■ MacClure's ITM Henderson 09 836 0088

■ Mahia ITM Takanini 09 267 0234

■ Matakana ITM 09 422 7525

■ Thomsons ITM Papakura 09 294 9410

■ Tuakau ITM 09 236 8226

■ Waiuku ITM 09 235 7289

■ Warkworth ITM 09 425 1021

■ Weck’s ITM Patumahoe 09 236 3684

■ Weck’s ITM Pukekohe 09 238 3678

■ Western ITM Kumeu 09 412 8148

■ Western ITM Swanson 09 832 0209

■ Western ITM Whenuapai 09 416 8164

WELLINGTON

■ Crighton ITM Greytown 06 304 7193

■ Crighton ITM Seaview 04 568 3896

■ Toa ITM Heretaunga 04 527 6800

■ Toa ITM Porirua 04 232 5999

WAIKATO/BAY OF PLENTY

■ Acorn ITM Hamilton 07 856 6789

■ Cambridge ITM 07 827 0953

■ Coromandel ITM 07 866 8848

■ Dayle ITM Kopu 07 868 9829

■ KKBS ITM Katikati 07 549 0689

■ Matamata Post & Rails ITM 07 888 8189

■ Mount ITM Mt Maunganui 07 575 3126

■ Omokoroa ITM 07 552 5770

■ Opotiki ITM 07 315 5984

■ Otorohanga ITM 07 873 4841

■ Pauanui ITM 07 864 8579

■ Rotorua ITM 07 347 9423

■ Taupo ITM 07 378 9899

■ Tauranga ITM 07 541 1232

■ Te Puke ITM 07 573 9993

■ Thomsons ITM Hamilton 07 849 3674

■ Thomsons ITM Whatawhata 07 829 8518

■ Timmo’s ITM Te Awamutu 07 871 7545

■ Tokoroa ITM 07 886 6611

■ Turangi ITM 07 386 5736

■ Whakatane ITM 07 307 0031

HAWKES BAY

■ Napier ITM 06 842 0531

MANAWATU/TARANAKI

■ Central ITM Carterton 06 929 7598

■ Central ITM Feilding 06 323 3400

■ Central ITM Marton 06 327 5458

■ Crighton ITM Levin 06 368 4057

■ Hometown ITM Foxton 06 363 8049

■ Manawatu ITM 06 356 9490

■ New Plymouth ITM 06 758 8939

■ North Taranaki ITM Inglewood 06 756 7535

■ North Taranaki ITM Waitara 06 754 8822

■ North Taranaki ITM Waiwhakaiho 06 759 7435

■ Stratford ITM 06 765 7800

TASMAN/NELSON/MARLBOROUGH

■ Blenheim ITM 03 578 3049

■ Havelock ITM 03 574 1018

■ Motueka ITM 03 528 7254

■ Nelson ITM 03 548 5487

■ Picton ITM 03 573 6888

■ Takaka ITM 03 525 0005

CANTERBURY/WEST COAST

■ Ashburton ITM 03 307 0412

■ Basher’s ITM Amberley 03 314 8311

■ Darfield ITM 03 318 7474

■ Geraldine ITM 03 693 9397

■ Greymouth ITM 03 768 0441

■ Hamptons ITM Waltham 03 374 3333

■ Hillside ITM Hornby 03 349 9739

■ Kaiapoi ITM 03 327 8829

■ Kaikoura ITM 03 319 5447

■ McMullan ITM Hokitika 03 755 8519

■ McVicar ITM Harewood 0800 191 674

■ ProBuild ITM Rolleston 0800 445 520

■ Rangiora ITM 03 313 4862

■ Timaru ITM 03 688 8074

■ Waimate ITM 03 689 7427

OTAGO/SOUTHLAND

■ Dunedin ITM 03 262 1008

■ E H Ball ITM Invercargill 03 218 3787

■ Fraser Hardware ITM Balclutha 03 418 0170

■ Gore ITM 03 208 0649

■ Mosgiel ITM 03 489 8885

■ Southbuild ITM Winton 03 236 6055

■ Southern Lakes ITM Alexandra 03 427 2221

■ Southern Lakes ITM Cromwell 03 445 0081

■ Southern Lakes ITM Queenstown 03 451 1567

■ Southern Lakes ITM Wanaka 03 443 2545

CORE CLAD

DON’T BE AFRaID OF THE DARK

Until now there was some trepidation from builders to envelop a sophisticated building in plywood and paint it black. That was before IBuiltTM introduced CoreClad TM Primed, our high strength pre-primed plywood engineered to perform reliably under all conditions. Unlike other plywood, each separate veneer layer of CoreCladTM plantation pine is ACQ treated and then structurally bonded - our core difference - it’s treated to the core.

Available pre-primed, with or without grooves. When painting CoreCladTM Primed with dark colours, it is critical our ‘Painting Dark Colours criteria’ are followed to ensure a stunning, long-lasting fashionable finish.

You’ll find it online. Visit www.ibuilt.co.nz/coreclad for more information.

Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.