𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐬:

→ Upgrading an existing building to meet the stringent requirements of BCA 2022 compliance.
→ Reviewing and assessing the suitability of the existing structural elements to determine if they could be retained or needed modification.
→ Addressing the stage and back-of-house areas, which exceeded the allowable limits under current regulations.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐒𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬:

→ Developing practical, buildable solutions to ensure the stage and back-of-house areas remain functional now and in the future, without compromising on safety.
→ Rationalising fire resistance levels (FRLs) to retain as many existing structural elements as possible, ensuring compliance without unnecessary costs.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐬:

→ A set of solutions that are practical, cost-effective, and forward-looking, enabling TAFE Queensland to modernise its facilities while maintaining safety and functionality.
→ The project ensures that TAFE Queensland’s A Block meets current safety standards and is well-positioned for the future, preserving an essential asset for the community.

A custom solution has been required to address the unique challenges presented by the building which involves multiple aircraft hangars, associated sleeping quarters, health care with supporting offices – all while working alongside the operational needs of a diverse range of key stakeholders.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀:

→ Special hazards, including multiple aircraft hangars, associated sleeping quarters and dangerous goods to name a few.
→ Numerous specialist fire safety systems, including overhead and wall wetting fire sprinklers, foam suppression systems, smoke detection systems and drainage.
→ Multiple uses, including healthcare, aircraft hangars (fixed wing and rotary), offices, holding areas, workshops, and overnight sleeping quarters.
→ Interconnected building parts requiring a performance based approach towards united building provisions.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗼𝗹𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀:

→ First principles fire engineering to support numerous special hazards via considering the specialist fire safety systems.
→ Rationalising construction from Fire Resistance Levels (FRLs) and compartmentation through to material selection flexibility.
→ Performance-based egress provisions.

𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗼𝗮𝗹𝘀:

→ A bespoke facility that supports:

1. Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS)
2. Retrieval Services Queensland (RSQ) and Queensland Health
3. Life Flight
4. Gov Air

→ A development that considers all of the special hazards not covered adequately by the Building Code of Australia (BCA) through a truly Performance-Based Fire Engineering Approach.