Access Performance Solution and Performance-Based Design Brief (PBDB).

Why do we need a Performance Solution?
The National Construction Code (NCC) is Australia’s performance-based building code. 

It sets the minimum technical requirements for the construction of new buildings (and new building work in existing buildings).

Compliance with the NCC can be achieved by complying with the Deemed- to -Satisfy provision. The prescriptive Deemed-to-Satisfy provisions are commonly referenced documents such as Australian standards. E.g. 1428.1: 2009.
If the Deemed-to-Satisfy compliance provisions cannot be met e.g. ‘The corridor width of an existing building is not wide enough to allow for wheelchair circulation at a doorway due to structural constraints’

Then a Performance Solution and a Performance-based design brief (PBDB) must be provided.

What is a Performance-based design brief (PBDB)?
Performance-based design brief (PBDB) 
​The performance-based design brief (PBDB) is a document provided by the access consultant prior to the issue of the Performance Solution Report which is developed in collaboration with key stakeholders E.g Client, Builder, Architect, the principal certifying authority (PCA) as part of a proposed performance-based design and approval process. The completed PBDB will become the platform upon which the proposed design is constructed.

​What is a Performance Solution?
A Performance Solution (formally known as an Alternative Solution) is defined as a building solution that complies with the performance requirements of the (NCC) other than by satisfying the referenced Deemed-to-Satisfy provisions. 

The Performance Solution is a tailored solution to equal or improve the intended objective of the performance requirements.

This allows for innovative design and flexibility to achieve compliance in a cost-effective way. 

This is especially important when the design of an existing building does not allow for the ‘Cookie Cutter’ prescriptive approach of building regulation.
When presenting a Performance Solution document, the performance requirements must be structured and verified using one or a combination of the following assessment methods:

• Evidence of suitability.
• A Verification Method.
• Expert Judgement.
• Comparison with the Deemed-to-Satisfy Provisions.

When designing a building, both Performance Solutions and Deemed-to-Satisfy Solutions can be used to achieve compliance with performance requirements.

​A Performance Solution with an accompanying Management Plan to enhance performance requirements is often provided to supplement physical barriers created by elements of a building.
This is to ensure dignified; equitable access is provided to meet the intent of the Discrimination Act Disability 1992 (DDA.
​The risks are also reduced for stake holders such as building certifiers, building developers and building managers who have a responsibility to act in accordance with the Disability (Access to Premises-Buildings) Standards 2010. The Management Plan/Policy must then be provided and kept on file and officially implemented in staff training and staff inductions for all new staff.

Obvius Access can provide you with a comprehensive Access performance-based design brief (PBDB) and Access Performance Solution Report that meets the performance compliance Requirements of the NCC tailored to meet your needs. We are an Accredited Access Consultant based in Sydney NSW and the Gold Coast South East Queensland. 
Contact us at [email protected] or phone on 1800 952311.