Module 1 – BC Energy Code Overview and Requirements
2.5 CPD
This module sets the groundwork for the overall design and compliance process and shares the motivation behind this evolution towards performance-based code. It is not intended to cover design principles for the BCESC since it is covered in Module 2.
- Recognize the importance of building housing in BC that responds to climate change through energy efficiency, durability, and comfort, for a diverse range of occupants.
- Formulate an appropriate explanation for team members and clients from diverse backgrounds on how the BC Energy Step Code works, its benefits, its origin, and its primary goals.
- Assess quantitatively a building’s BC Energy Step Code compliance based on energy modelling results using thermal and mechanical energy use metrics.
- Coordinate the completion of modelling, testing, submissions, and inspections needed in the BC Energy Step Code compliance process for a diverse range of Part 9 construction projects.
Module 2 – Meeting the BC Energy Code by Design
2.5 CPD
This module provides an overview of how architectural and mechanical design choices can have a significant impact on certain building performance parameters, which can either help or hinder compliance as well as impact overall cost.
- Explain to team members and clients the basic considerations for designing and building to the BCESC both for Step 3 and beyond, including considerations for future climate readiness, market expectations, potential cost implications, diverse building types, and future code readiness.
- Assess qualitatively a building’s likelihood of meeting various performance requirements of the BC Energy Step Code based on its design elements.
Module 3 – Building Science for the BC Energy Code
2.5 CPD
This module builds on basic building science principles and applies them to the evolving/emerging enclosure design and construction practices required to meet the “envelope first” approach. This is not intended as a building science fundamentals course, but must still set the groundwork for the training completed in Module 4.
- Apply building science principles to help in the selection of durable building components, assemblies, and construction approaches in the diverse British Columbia climate and market.
- Use industry resources to determine appropriate enclosure components and assemblies, mechanical components, and construction approaches that can be used to meet the current and future requirements of the BCESC and achieve best practices.
Module 4 – Building Envelop Options for the BC Energy Step Code
2.5 CPD
This module introduces builders to the different options they have to achieve higher performance levels when it comes to the building assemblies and their interfaces.
- Compare and contrast the performance, cost, constructability, compatibility, and future-readiness parameters at play in the design and construction of modern enclosure assemblies that are used in buildings meeting the BC Energy Step Code.
- Plan the construction of enclosure assemblies, including aligning a diverse range of trades/ subcontractors, managing supply chains, sequencing site work, and ensuring correct installation
Module 5 – Air Barriers for the BC Energy Step Code
This module introduces builders to the different options they have to achieve higher performance levels when it comes to the building assemblies and their interfaces.
- This module discusses the different options that builders have when selecting an air barrier approach, and the important planning steps associated with a successful air barrier.
- Apply knowledge of the correct design and installation practices for a given air barrier approach to properly manage the planning, installation, and testing of the building’s complete air barrier.
Module 6 – Mechanical Systems for the BC Energy Code
SC3-6
This module discusses correct design and construction steps for heating, cooling and ventilation systems used in BCESC homes.
- Use knowledge of the basic characteristics of correctly designed and installed code compliant mechanical systems used in BCESC homes when communicating with mechanical designers and mechanical trades.
Module 7 – Building Envelope Quality Assurance and Quality Control
SC3-7
This module focuses firstly on building envelope details that are more commonly associated with performance issues, and secondly on the quality assurance and control of the air barrier, and on diagnosis and repair of the air barrier with the assistance of air tightness testing.
- Use basic quality assurance and quality control tools like mockups and airtightness testing to achieve airtight durable enclosures.
- Coordinate QA/QC measures for enclosure detailing and airtightness control, including enlisting the correct parties responsible and tracking items from design through to completion.
Module 8 – BC Energy Step Code Project Management
Step 8
This module presents ways in which the builder can manage the project, in cooperation with the rest of the project team and the trades, to achieve the expected performance levels.
- Recognize the design and construction factors contributing to the success or failure of a building project in meeting its goals such as meeting BCESC requirements, staying on budget and on schedule, and maintaining working relationships with team members and clients
- Integrate broad project management and QA/QC tools that help lower the risk of failing to meet project goals.