Bushfire Attack Level Calculator to AS 3959-2018

About this calculator

The Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) Calculator to AS 3959-2018 allows users to quickly determine the Bushfire Attack Level for a specific location in Australia, following the guidelines of AS 3959-2018. The calculator streamlines the process, providing an easy way to assess the potential risk from bushfires, which is crucial for compliance with building codes and regulations in bushfire-prone areas.

This calculator is for:

• Architects and Building Designers: to assess the BAL rating during the design phase of projects.
• Builders and Developers: for feasibility checks and to ensure compliance with bushfire safety regulations.
• Homeowners and Property Buyers: to understand the bushfire risk for a property they own or intend to purchase.

The tool performs quick checks by allowing users to input their location and surrounding environment details. It gives immediate feedback on the likely BAL rating, helping users determine if more detailed assessment or mitigation strategies are required.

Textbook references: For those interested in a deeper dive, relevant textbooks include:

• "Planning for Bushfire Protection" by the NSW Rural Fire Service
• "Australian Standard AS 3959-2018: Construction of Buildings in Bushfire-Prone Areas" which offers comprehensive guidelines.

For alternative approaches to calculating the BAL, users can consult manual methods as outlined in AS 3959-2018, which involve measuring distances from fire-prone vegetation, slope assessments, and considering local wind conditions.

FAQs

What factors influence the Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) for a property?

Several factors determine the BAL, including the slope of the land, the type and proximity of vegetation surrounding the property, and the fire danger index for the area.

Why is it important to know the BAL for a property?

Knowing the BAL is crucial for designing and constructing buildings that can withstand potential bushfire attacks. It is a regulatory requirement in many areas to ensure the safety of structures and occupants in bushfire-prone regions.

Can the BAL change over time, and what causes this?

Yes, the BAL can change if the surrounding vegetation is altered (e.g., due to land clearing or reforestation) or if new bushfire risk data becomes available, prompting revisions to regulatory standards like AS 3959.

How to verify a calculation

Engineering calculations require clarity, precision, and professionalism. Here are some best practices we use at CalcTree:

• Technical Requirements: Start with boundary conditions, units, sign conventions, and design standards.
• Check the Math: Review the calculation step-by-step. Clarify unusual steps, compare results with hand calculations or tools, and test with multiple examples.
• Peer Review: Have an independent reviewer check for logic, accuracy, and compliance.

For more on verification, see CalcTree’s internal methods.