Training courses
Short Course in Building Thermal Performance Assessment (Residential)
This course has been designed to develop the skills and knowledge that enable:
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development of practical, cost-effective building and design solutions that provide
more comfortable homes that cost less to run and minimise impact on our environment;
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sophisticated analysis of residential building thermal performance using new 2 nd
generation assessment software;
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delivery of professional assessment services that provide valuable, specialist advice
and certification of regulatory compliance.
It has been developed with support from the Australian Greenhouse Office in consultation
with national industry and government organisations. It has been accredited within
the Australian Qualifications Framework and provides a Statement of Attainment for
successful completion.
This qualification is required to be able to practice as an ABSA Accredited Assessor,
using new 2nd generation assessment software, and meet the requirements of the Nationwide
House Energy Rating Scheme National Register of Accredited Assessors.
Course Information:
The 32 hour training program is delivered in three modules:
Module 1: Design and Construction Theory (12 hours)
Module 2: 2nd Generation Software Operation (16hours)
Module 3: Professional Practice (4 hours)
The Design and Construction Theory module provides valuable skills
and knowledge for all construction and design professionals who want to develop their
ability to deliver better building solutions.
The 2nd Generation Software Operation module develops essentials
skills required to be able to analyse and rate building thermal performance using
new assessment software. Computers with 2nd Generation software are provided
for use during the training. A demonstration version of the software is supplied
for use outside the training. Assessors will be required to purchase the software
separately from the relevant software supplier company in order to sit the ABSA Accreditation
exam and practice as an Assessor.
The Professional Practice module develops understanding of requirements
for the delivery of professional assessment services and certification of regulatory
compliance of residential buildings in each state and territory.
Each module can be undertaken independently. However, if you wish to attend more than
one module, it is recommended that they be completed concurrently as each module is
designed to compliment the others.
To achieve the Statement of Attainment you will need to complete all modules.
To become an ABSA Accredited Assessor you will need to achieve the Statement of Attainment
as well as complete an ABSA Accreditation Examination. For more information on ABSA
Accreditation please refer to Becoming
an ABSA Accredited Assessor.
Assessors that are currently Accredited with ABSA are required to complete this course
before being able to use 2nd generation assessment software.
> For a detailed description
of the content and learning outcomes of each module please click here.
Assessment Software
The 2nd Generation Software Operation module is based on your choice of one of three
new assessment software programs: Accurate, BERS Pro and FirstRate v5. They all utilises
the same calculation engine and deliver the same ratings of residential buildings.
Each program provides a different user interface for entering building data. Accurate
requires building dimensions to be entered numerically in tables. FirstRate and BERS
define building dimensions by drawing a simple plan which can be traced over an imported
image of the assessed house plans.
Accurate provides most flexibility in assessing complex designs and materials. FirstRate
and BERS offer simpler, faster assessment.
The programs vary in cost and provide differing levels of user support.
ABSA is an independent training and accreditation organisation and is not involved
in the development, sale or support of the assessment software. We can not recommend
any one program. Your selection of which program to utilise should be based upon functionality,
cost and quality of support. For further information on each of these programs please
click on the links below.
Pre-requisites
Before undertaking this course, participants must:
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have knowledge of residential building design and construction;
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be able to interpret plans and specifications;
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be competent in the operation of computers.
This can be demonstrated through either:
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having a qualification relating to the construction, design or certification of residential
buildings;
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evidence of experience in the residential building industry;
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successful completion a competency test that examines pre-requisite knowledge;
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evidence of competence in the units of competency
Read and interpret plans and specifications (BCGCM2001B)
Use computer technology (ICTCC129A).
The course registration form includes an opportunity for you to identify how you meet
these prerequisites.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
You may be able to achieve the Statement of Attainment in Residential Building Thermal
Performance Assessment, without undertaking all or parts of the training program,
if you can demonstrate appropriate prior learning and experience. ABSA will still
require you to successfully complete practical exercises and examination to demonstrate
that you have achieved the skills and knowledge developed by this course.
If you want to apply for Recognition of Prior Learning, please email admin@absa.net.au
Registration
ABSA provides training throughout Australia by highly respected, experienced and skilled
trainers.
> For information on training dates,
locations and pricing please click here.
Registration and payment prior to commencement of the training program is essential.
In-House Training
ABSA trainers are also available to deliver courses within your workplace. All we
need is a dedicated room suitable for training delivery. Please contact us to arrange
an individual quotation for this service. Contact; training@absa.net.au or
02 9280 0617/1300 760 012