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Glossaries

Term Definition
Abutment

An abutment is a structural component that supports the ends of a bridge or arch, transferring the loads from the bridge or arch to the ground. It serves as a critical element in ensuring the stability and integrity of the structure. In the context of dentistry, an abutment refers to a tooth or implant that supports a dental prosthesis, such as a crown, bridge, or denture. The term can also be used more generally to describe any point where two structures or elements meet and are supported.

Access

In the context of construction, "access" refers to the means, infrastructure, or provisions made to facilitate safe, efficient, and controlled entry, movement, and exit of people, materials, and equipment to and from a building site, structure, or specific area within a project. This includes the creation of temporary or permanent pathways, roads, ramps, stairways, scaffolding, and other necessary features that enable workers, contractors, and stakeholders to reach and perform their tasks, while also ensuring compliance with relevant safety regulations and standards.

Access Door
Door which allows access to concealed space or equipment.
Admixtures

In the context of construction in Australia, "admixtures" refers to a range of specialized additives or substances that are intentionally introduced into concrete, mortar, or other building materials to enhance their properties, performance, and workability. These admixtures can be in the form of liquids, powders, or other materials, and are designed to improve the mix's strength, durability, flowability, or other characteristics, allowing for more efficient and effective construction processes

Aggregate

The definition of aggregate in commercial construction in Australia is a broad category of coarse- to medium-grained particulate material used in construction, including sand, gravel, crushed stone, slag, recycled concrete, and geosynthetic aggregates . Aggregates are raw materials that are produced from natural sources and extracted from pits and quarries . In construction, an aggregate is a material used for mixing with cement, bitumen, lime, gypsum, or other adhesives to form concrete or mortar, providing volume, stability, resistance to wear or erosion, and other desired physical properties to the finished product .

Agreement
A contract between two or more parties, either written or verbal.
Air Brick

An air brick is a vent that allows air to pass through a wall to the underfloor space. It is typically made of terracotta or plastic and is installed in the external walls of a building to provide ventilation to the subfloor area.

In commercial construction in Australia, air bricks are commonly used to prevent dampness and moisture buildup in the subfloor area, which can lead to structural damage and mold growth. They are also used to allow for the circulation of air, which helps to regulate the temperature and humidity levels in the building.

Allotment

In the context of commercial construction in Australia, an allotment refers to a parcel of land that can be disposed of separately without being subdivided . This definition is in line with Section 8A of the Sale of Land Act 1962.

In commercial construction, an allotment is typically a designated area of land within a larger development or subdivision, assigned a unique number or identifier . This allotment number may later be replaced with a street number once the development is completed.

Aluminium Oxide

Aluminium oxide, also known as alumina, is a chemical compound of aluminium and oxygen with the chemical formula Al2O3 . In the context of commercial construction in Australia, aluminium oxide is defined as a material that, when further refined, produces aluminum .

Ant cap (ant capping or termite shield)

In the context of commercial construction in Australia, an ant cap, also known as ant capping or termite shield, is a physical barrier designed to detect and deter termites from gaining entry to a building via concealed routes .

Apex

In the context of commercial construction in Australia, the term "apex" has a specific meaning. The apex refers to the highest point or peak of a structure, such as a roof . In roofing, it is the point where the rafters join .

In the Australian construction industry, the term "apex" is used to describe the uppermost point of a building or structure. This term is widely used in the industry, including in the National Standard for Construction Work .

Arch

In the context of commercial construction in Australia, an arch is a structural element characterized by a curved shape that spans an opening, such as a door or window . It is typically constructed of various materials, including masonry, concrete, or steel, and is designed to provide structural support and stability to a building .

Arch Bar
A structural member or beam carrying loads over an opening.
Architect

In Australia, an architect is a licensed professional responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the construction of commercial buildings and outdoor spaces . They hold professional qualifications, have completed a period of practical experience in architecture, and have passed the Architectural registration exam .

Architecture

In Australia, the definition of architecture in commercial construction is broad and encompasses a wide range of building typologies . Architecture in this context involves planning and designing buildings and spaces that prioritize functionality while meeting safety standards and construction regulations .

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