AS 2156.2 specifies design methods and loads for non-habitable outdoor structures where the environment is the focus of recreation, such as national parks and nature reserves. It focuses on structures that protect natural and cultural assets while allowing safe public access.
Key points covered in the video include:

• Relationship to other standards

  • AS 2156.2 requires designers to use the AS 1170 series for structural actions, including live load combinations and limit state design, unless the walking track standard gives different values.

  • Serviceability limit states are essential, especially for track classes 4 and 5, to ensure deflections are acceptable to users and the structure can absorb movement without damage.

• Track classes and live loads
  • For track classes 1 and 2, public assembly areas are typically designed to a 4 or 5 kPa uniformly distributed load (UDL) plus a 4.5 kN concentrated load, with no live load reduction. The designer must check UDL and concentrated load separately and adopt whichever is more adverse.
  • For track classes 3 and 4, typical values are:
    • 4 kPa for viewing platforms
    • 3 kPa for access ways or boardwalk spans
    • A 1.4 kN concentrated load over a small area for critical spots such as individual planks or deck panels.
  • Class 5 tracks use lower live loads but still require checks for both distributed and concentrated loading on platforms and access ways.
• Lateral loads and environmental actions

  • Lateral effects, such as wind and earthquake actions, are assessed in accordance with AS 1170.2 and AS 1170.4, where relevant.

  • The standard also requires designers to consider lateral crowd effects caused by pedestrian movement. A typical guide value is 250 N/m² of plan area for the lateral live load from occupants.

  • In alpine areas, snow and ice actions must follow AS 1170.3, including the build-up of snow between barrier elements and on horizontal components such as rails.

• Foundations and supports
  • Foundation design follows a limit-state approach with short-term multipliers in accordance with AS 1170 and uses the nominal loads specified in the loading clauses for decks, platforms, and barriers.
• Barrier loads and fall protection

  • AS 2156.2 provides a framework for barrier loads on walking track structures based on track class and effective fall height, complementing but sometimes exceeding the National Construction Code for similar fall heights.

  • Loadings include horizontal and vertical forces on the top rail, infill loads and point loads applied in any direction to simulate real-world crowd and impact effects.

• Barrier types A, B, C, D and E.
  • Type A barrier

    • Minimum height typically 1000 mm

    • No opening below the top rail that will pass a 125 mm sphere

    • No climbable toe holds between 150 mm and 760 mm above deck level, similar in concept to non-climbable balustrades in building codes.

  • Type B barrier
    • Also 1000 mm high, but allows horizontal rails or infill, provided the 125 mm sphere rule is maintained.
  • Type C barrier

    • Minimum height 900 mm

    • Larger openings are allowed, subject to maximum vertical and bottom-gap limits.

  • Type D and E barriers

    • Used on lower-risk or remote Class 4 and 5 tracks.

    • Type D is a single handrail at a minimum height of 900 mm, with no infill.

    • Type E is a series of handholds or ropes anchored to rock faces or walls for balance assistance rather than complete fall protection.

• Fall height and risk categories

  • The standard uses effective fall height and an assessment of landing conditions to determine barrier requirements.

  • Landing categories range from benign surfaces, such as deep moss or soft vegetation, to hazardous conditions, such as extended falls over steep slopes or into swiftly flowing water.

• Preferred slopes and access types

  • AS 2156.2 recommends preferred slope ranges for walkways, stairways, step ladders, and ladders to ensure comfortable, safe access.

  • A mid-range stair slope of 30-38 degrees is preferred for most track classes, with shallower slopes for walkways and steeper slopes reserved for ladders and step ladders.

• Status of the standard
  • AS 2156.2 was formally withdrawn by Standards Australia in 2020, meaning it is no longer maintained, yet it is still referenced by several parks agencies and guidance documents as a helpful framework when no direct replacement exists.

Throughout the video, Edward emphasises that AS 2156.2 is a guide rather than a standalone or statutory code and should be used alongside AS 1170, the National Construction Code and project-specific risk assessments.