In the context of commercial construction in Australia, a "chase" refers to a groove or channel cut into a wall, floor, or ceiling to accommodate services such as electrical conduits, plumbing pipes, or other utilities. Chases are essential for concealing and protecting these services within the structure of a building.

Relevant Australian Standards and BCA Requirements

1. Australian Standards (AS)
   - AS 3000 – Electrical Installations (known as the Australian/New Zealand Wiring Rules): This standard provides guidelines for the installation of electrical wiring and equipment, including the requirements for chases used to conceal electrical conduits.
   - AS 3500 – Plumbing and Drainage: This series of standards outlines the requirements for the installation of plumbing and drainage systems, including the use of chases to conceal pipes.
   - AS 1684 – Residential Timber-Framed Construction: While primarily focused on residential construction, this standard also provides guidance on the structural implications of cutting chases in timber-framed buildings.

2. National Construction Code (NCC) / Building Code of Australia (BCA)
   - Volume 1 – Commercial Buildings: The BCA provides comprehensive requirements for the design and construction of commercial buildings, including structural integrity, fire safety, and accessibility. Specific sections relevant to chases include:
   - Part B – Structure: This part addresses the structural requirements for buildings, ensuring that any chases cut into load-bearing elements do not compromise the building's structural integrity.
   - Part C – Fire Resistance: This part includes requirements for maintaining the fire resistance of walls and floors, which can be affected by the installation of chases.
   - Part D – Access and Egress: This part ensures that chases do not obstruct or compromise safe access and egress routes within the building.

Key Considerations for Chases in Commercial Construction

1. Structural Integrity: When creating chases, it is crucial to ensure that the structural integrity of the building is not compromised. This involves careful planning and adherence to engineering guidelines to avoid weakening load-bearing elements.

2. Fire Safety: Chases must be designed and installed in a way that does not compromise the fire resistance of walls and floors. This may involve using fire-rated materials or incorporating fire-stopping measures around the chase.

3. Accessibility: Chases should be planned to ensure they do not obstruct access routes or create hazards within the building.

4. Compliance: All chases must comply with the relevant Australian Standards and the BCA requirements to ensure safety, functionality, and legal compliance.

5. Coordination: Proper coordination between different trades (e.g., electrical, plumbing, HVAC) is essential to ensure that chases are appropriately sized and located to accommodate all required services without conflicts.

By adhering to these standards and requirements, commercial construction projects in Australia can ensure that chases are safely and effectively integrated into building designs.