Give feedback on the proposed Rapid Building Assessment Methodology

About the consultation

Rapid building assessments (post-event building assessments) quickly establish the usability of buildings and associated infrastructure where functions may be compromised by an emergency event. If a post-event assessment operation is required, teams of Rapid Building Assessors (RBAs) will be sent to assess damaged buildings and existing or potential hazards.

Under the Building Act 2004, MBIE has several building emergency management roles and responsibilities, including the Chief Executive’s power to set a rapid building assessment methodology under section 133BQ(2)(a).

Why do we need a rapid building assessment methodology?

Issuing a methodology under section 133BQ(2)(a) of the Building Act provides:

• a regulatory document that bridges the gap between prescribed rapid building assessment requirements, such as approved assessment forms and placards, and guidance-based processes, such as guidance material, training and field guides
• minimum health and safety guidelines that must be implemented for rapid building assessment operations to mitigate risks posed in the field; and
• consistency by outlining a basic assessment approach that must be followed by assessors when conducting rapid building assessments under the Building Act.

What we are seeking feedback on

MBIE would like feedback on:

• Does the proposed methodology provide suitable flexibility to be applied for different hazard events?
• Does the format of the proposed guidance document provide users with sufficient information to understand and implement the methodology in rapid building assessments?
• Are there any other factors MBIE should consider before issuing the methodology?