With the shift towards creating energy efficient buildings, few builders, architects or government authorities have considered the adverse impact this may have on the health of the occupants. Using the building biology rating criteria, this course provides the knowledge and the skills to assess a building material’s effect on human health and its impact on indoor air quality, electroclimate, emissions of toxic vapours, radioactivity and life cycle analysis. The building biology principles that underpin good building design are described with a focus on suitable designs for temperate, hot humid and arid climates commonly found in Australia. Site selection, evaluation of its microclimate and the importance of establishing a relationship between the building and the local environment is highlighted. The building site footprint will look at foundations, framing, water flow management and the use of non-chemical forms of pest management. The various ways in which passive solar design and energy efficiency can be incorporated into the building design will be evaluated. Alternative building designs including mud brick and strawbale will be introduced. This course does not teach you how to draw architectural plans.

This course is ideal for those who are looking to build their own home or for builders and architects
who want to learn the principles that underpin a healthy home.

There are two subjects in the course: Building Materials and Building Design. Successful completion of these subjects can be credited towards the Certificate IV in Building Biology. Each subject is 14 weeks in duration from the date of enrolment and are only available via correspondence. Expect around one day per week over 14 weeks of homework time. Total cost is $1,390 which includes comprehensive manuals, DVDs of the lectures and access to a tutor.