Standards New Zealand has just published a revised Standard for Seismic performance of engineering systems for buildings, NZS 4219:2009.

This Standard sets out the criteria for the seismic performance of building services or engineering systems in buildings, and the requirements for the design, construction, and installation of seismic restraints for engineering systems in buildings.

NZS 4219:2009 will help to prevent loss of life and provide protection of property for all New Zealanders by ensuring engineering systems in buildings are securely restrained for an earthquake. Where the engineering system supports critical lifesaving functions, the use of the Standard will help ensure the system continues to function during and after an earthquake.

The Standard has been written to assist users carrying out non-specific engineering design (sections 1, 2, 3, and 5), and users carrying out specific structural engineering design (sections 1, 2, 4, and 5).

The development committee for the revision included representatives from Association of Consulting Engineers (ACENZ), BRANZ Ltd, Business New Zealand, Department of Building and Housing, GNS Science, INGENIUM, Institution of Professional Engineers New Zealand (IPENZ), Master Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers New Zealand Inc, New Zealand Society for Earthquake Engineering (NZSEE), and University of Canterbury.

Appendix D of the Standard provides useful examples for calculating and selecting the appropriate anchors and bracing design for common engineering services.

Once referenced by the Department of Building and Housing, NZS 4219:2009 is intended to provide a means of compliance with the New Zealand Building Code, Clause B1 Structure; Clause G10 Piped services; and Clause G14 Industrial liquid waste.