BRANZ fire research and experimental capabilities have evolved alongside the emergence of new materials and the evolution of New Zealand building practices. A fire research roadmap illustrates the wide range of ongoing themes in fire research. A particular construction trend at present that challenges building fire safety in New Zealand is increasingly densified residential construction. Launched in 2020, the BRANZ fire research programme, Building fire-safe densified housing, addresses specific fire safety issues associated with this shift. It aims to support updates to building code fire safety clauses and related compliance documents such as Acceptable Solutions and Verification Methods, and track and inform fire safety-related industry practices.
Working with system players
The fire research team collaborates on research activities with domestic and international stakeholders throughout the building system. Stakeholders include:
- Industry players
- Professional bodies
- Practitioners (Engineers, Designers and Architects)
- Government agencies
- Tertiary institutions
- Standards development bodies
- Crown research institutes.
Research programme overview
Objective 1: Fire resistance
By 2030, densified housing fire separations and structure provide a known level of performance and safety in the event of a structurally significant fire.
Objective 2: Fire spread
By 2025, the building industry and occupants are confident that densified housing combustible materials are being used effectively while maintaining societally acceptable fire spread risk.
Objective 3: Better emergency egress
By 2025, the building industry and occupants are confident that densified housing combustible materials are being used effectively while maintaining societally acceptable fire spread risk.
