Navigating 9B Compliance in School Fitouts

Designing and delivering learning environments goes beyond aesthetics. For education projects in Australia, Class 9B building regulations set the framework for how spaces must be designed, constructed, and maintained to ensure safety, accessibility, and functionality for students and staff.
At Sensa, we see compliance as the foundation, not the end point. When managed well, 9B regulations do not limit design. They create safer, smarter, and more future ready spaces.
What is Class 9B?
Class 9B under the National Construction Code applies to assembly buildings where groups of people gather for learning or recreation. For schools, this means every classroom, lab, library, and hall must meet clear requirements in areas such as:
- Fire safety and egress
Spaces must provide clear exit paths, compliant door widths and emergency lighting. - Accessibility
Layouts must allow equitable access for all students, including circulation spaces, ramps and DDA compliant amenities. - Ventilation and natural light
Indoor environments must provide healthy air quality and daylight that supports wellbeing. - Acoustic and spatial design
Teaching and learning areas must support clear communication and minimise disruption.
These are not just regulatory requirements. They directly shape how well a school environment performs for students and teachers.

Why it Matters for Schools
A non compliant fitout can lead to costly rework, project delays or risks to safety. Beyond compliance, the way these regulations are interpreted and integrated into design influences how engaging and supportive a learning space becomes.
For example, a DDA compliant circulation layout does more than satisfy accessibility standards. It creates inclusivity and ensures every student can move freely and participate fully. In the same way, well planned fire egress can also provide clear and intuitive wayfinding throughout a campus.
How Sensa Interiors Supports 9B Fitouts
With decades of experience in education design and construction, we understand the detail behind 9B and how to bring it into practice without compromising creativity. Our approach combines:
Discovery workshops with stakeholders
We ensure safety and compliance are aligned with the school’s vision for learning.
In house design expertise
We integrate regulatory requirements into layouts, furniture, and finishes.
Design and construct delivery model
We manage compliance throughout construction, certification, and handover.
Future proofing
We create spaces that continue to meet Class 9B standards as codes evolve and student needs change.
We have delivered compliant and inspiring environments for schools and tertiary institutions across Melbourne. These are spaces that not only meet regulatory requirements but also support collaboration, focus, and wellbeing.

Building Safer, Smarter Learning Environments
Regulation and creativity work best together. At Sensa Interiors, we see 9B compliance as an essential part of creating learning spaces that are safe, inclusive, and designed to last.
In education, the measure of a space is not just whether it complies with the code. The true measure is whether it helps students thrive.