GIS 63: Performance-based design for consumer piping support systems

Introduction

This information sheet explains how to achieve compliance when designing a consumer piping support system that varies from the AS/NZS 5601.1:2022 ‘means of compliance’ requirements.

A consumer piping support system must comply with the ‘means of compliance’ requirements of AS/NZS 5601.1:2022 (Section 5.8).

Where a proposed support system varies from these requirements—for example, a support system that includes the support of multiple pipes on a trapeze or single pipes using undersized diameter rod hangers and/or non-compliant support spacing—then a performance-based design application (as per Section 2 of AS/NZS 5601.1:2022) must be submitted to Energy Safe Victoria for review and acceptance.

Submitting a performance-based design application

Create and submit a gas application in GasTrac, Energy Safe's online gas application system. In the 'basic details' section state that you are using a performance-based design for the pipe support system and attach a separate document outlining your design proposal.

Supporting documentation from both the applicant and a competent person must be submitted to verify that the design meets the required performance outcomes.

You must provide a detailed description of the performance outcomes the alternative solution is required to meet from Section 2 – AS/NZS 5601.1:2022, in particular clauses 2.1.4 and 2.2.3.5, or other clauses deemed relevant.

Clearly identify:

• which ‘means of compliance’ clause/s from Sections 3 to 6 of AS/NZS 5601.1:2022 the performance-based design relates to
• the specific section/location of the gas installation that the performance-based design relates to. (For example, ‘the piping in the basement car park from the gas meter room to the mechanical services plant room’)

Additional information from a competent person

Additional information from a competent person must include:

• Details of the relevant site address and location of the installed piping system
• Evidence from the competent person that the supplied piping support system is based on their assessment of the proposed installation’s support requirements
• A schematic of the piping route clearly showing how many pipes are supported, with pipe size and support spacing noted
• Details of the materials to be used in the piping support system, for example, the size and type of anchors, rod hangers, horizontal supports, clip heads, and component working load limits or specifications
• Information about whether the piping support system requires additional design or components to allow flexibility for expansion movement, and if so, how that will be managed.

Supporting documentation will only be accepted if it is supplied and signed off by a competent person.

A ‘competent person’ is defined by AS/NZS 5601 as

a person or body who through training, qualification or practical experience or a combination of these and understanding of the equipment and processes is able to verify compliance with this Standard.

In relation to a performance based design for consumer piping support systems; Energy Safe deem a ‘competent person’ to be:

• A suitably qualified engineer if it is a custom designed system with no supporting information from a piping support manufacturer
• An authorised representative from the piping support system manufacturer if it is a proprietary system with supporting information from the piping support manufacturer.

GasTrac applications

If the application is:

• a new application, then attach the performance-based design for the proposed gas piping support system as a separate document within your GasTrac gas application.
• in response to an identified non-compliance and if the installed system is to remain unmodified, submit a performance-based design application for review and approval.