COMMENTARY ON CHANGES TO THE FIRE CODE (1997 edition)This document has been prepared to identify significant changes adopted
in the 1997 edition of the
Fire Code, Ontario Regulation 388/97
.
This commentary contains explanations relating to the application and intent of these changes. For the full text of any requirements, reference should be made to the Official Volumes.
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INTRODUCTION
Ontario Regulation 388/97, the Fire
Code, was filed on October 30, 1997. This regulation represents
the first extensive review of the Fire Code since 1987. Except
as specifically noted otherwise, the regulation came into force
on November 21, 1997. The package contains a number of technical
amendments as well as numerous editorial amendments.
Some of the more significant technical
amendments include:
(i) new qualifications and responsibilities for persons who carry out testing and servicing of fire alarm systems,
(ii) mandatory smoke alarm installation in previously unregulated residential units,
(iii) maintenance requirements for smoke alarms, and
(iv) the introduction of comprehensive
technical requirements under Part 4, "Flammable and Combustible
Liquids".
A separate commentary dealing specifically
with Part 4 of the Fire Code is available.
The editorial amendments have been made
to:
(i) clarify the intent of certain requirements,
(ii) reconcile differences with the Building Code,
(iii) update referenced standards, and
(iv) provide additional flexibility
for compliance.
Many of these changes clarify the owner's
responsibility for compliance and restore consistency, while improving
the enforcement capability of the fire service.
As well, the consolidated printing includes
Appendices A, B and C which provide relevant Building Code references
for use with Part 9, "Retrofit".
PART 1 - APPLICATION AND
DEFINITIONS
Article 1.1.1.3. Repair or Replacement
of Defective Components
Many Articles in the Fire Code deal
with the checking, inspecting or testing of components but the
requirement that these components be repaired if they do not operate
was not previously included in a consistent manner. Article 1.1.1.3.
has been added to require that corrective action be carried out
to repair or replace all defective components. To avoid duplication,
corresponding deletions have been made in the body of the Code.
Subsection 1.1.5. Qualification
and Responsibilities of Persons Performing Tests, Inspections
and Maintenance of Fire Protection Equipment
This new Subsection requires that every
person who carries out annual tests, annual inspections, repairs
or alterations to a fire alarm system must have successfully completed
a program or course acceptable to the Fire Marshal. These persons
are also responsible for carrying out the work in compliance with
the Code. Persons who are not qualified can work under the supervision
of a qualified person.
This Subsection comes into force on
November 21, 1999, to permit an adequate implementation period.
These requirements were introduced to improve operability of
fire alarm systems as a result of recommendations made by coroner's
juries. Also, please refer to the corresponding requirements
in Article 6.3.2.1.
Article 1.1.6.3. Other Exemptions
This Article identifies specific exemptions
to the Fire Code to deal with situations where an owner has complied
with previous editions of the Fire Code. It is not intended that
additional changes be made in a building to satisfy the revised
Fire Code in many cases. For example, where a theatre has been
retrofitted to satisfy the previous version of Section 9.2, further
upgrading is not necessary even though changes may have been made
to this Section.
Article 1.1.7.2. Referenced Standards,
Documents, Manuals or Handbooks
This Article has been amended to include
a new Table 1.1.7.A. which identifies the edition of each standard,
document, manual and handbook referenced in the Fire Code. The
new table does not replace the actual references in the body of
the Fire Code, but does eliminate the date of the particular edition
from these references and captures them in the new table.
The referenced standards, documents,
manuals and handbooks in Table 1.1.7.A. have been updated to correspond
to the date of the editions listed in the 1990 Building Code (as
amended to 1993), as much as practical.
Article 1.1.7.4. Chief Fire Official
Discretion on Use of Reference Documents
This Article has been added to give
authority to the Chief Fire Official to permit compliance with
earlier editions of documents referenced in the Fire Code. This
provides greater flexibility for compliance with the Code.
Article 1.1.7.5. Secondary References
in Documents
This Article has been added to specify
that where a document referenced in the Fire Code contains second
level references to another document, only those portions of the
second document that are specific to the subject matter are applicable.
This is intended to clarify that application and enforcement
of non-relevant material from the second document and additional
tertiary documents is not required.
Article 1.1.8.3. Chief Fire Official
This new Article permits the Chief Fire
Official to appoint persons who are assistants to the Fire Marshal
to be Chief Fire Officials. The Chief Fire Official will have
specific areas of responsibility or limitations as set out in
the appointment.
Article 1.2.1.2. Definitions
All defined terms in the Fire Code are
identified in bold print. Several types of amendments
have occurred in the defined terms. A number of definitions have
been amended to correspond with the definitions contained in the
Building Code. This includes, but is not limited to, definitions
for basement, building area, dwelling unit,
exit, grade, means of egress, public corridor,
etc.
As a result of amendments adopted elsewhere
in the Fire Code, there are new definitions including contained
use area, impeded egress zone and rapid transit
station. Also, new definitions have been added to clarify
the application and intent of various Articles in the Fire Code.
These definitions include farm building, service room
and service space. Other defined terms (e.g. "breeching"
and "chimney liner") have been deleted from the definitions
as they no longer appear in the Code.
The term "existing" has been
removed from the definitions and is now separately defined in
each Section of Part 9, "Retrofit". A date is included
with each of these defined terms corresponding to the date that
Section came into force. This permits easier identification of
existing systems or components within Part 9.
The term Building Code has been
amended to generically reference any edition of the Building Code.
This new definition is consistent with the original intent of
the Fire Code and applies to Parts 1 to 8. A separate definition
for "Building Code" appears in each Section of Part
9 to clearly identify the edition of the Building Code that is
utilized in the direct references. Please refer to the complementary
information contained in Appendices A, B and C.
Chief Fire Official
has been amended to ensure that the individual has been designated
as an assistant to the Fire Marshal.
The term combustible dust has
been revised to include any dust and is now consistent with the
original intent of the Fire Code.
PART 2 - BUILDING AND OCCUPANT
FIRE SAFETY
Article 2.2.3.5. Checking Doors
This Article has been amended to exclude
the need to check doors that are designed to close automatically
in the event of fire or where the fire safety plan contains provisions
for closing these doors in the event of a fire.
Examples of doors to which this exclusion would apply include:
(i) doors equipped with acceptable magnetic hold-open devices,
(ii) bedroom doors in health care facilities, which are normally open and would be closed under provisions in the fire safety plan, and
(iii) doors to classrooms in elementary
and secondary schools, which are often open during classroom use
and would also be closed under provisions in the fire safety plan.
Article 2.4.1.1. Accumulation of
Combustible Materials
The term "waste" has been
deleted from this Article to ensure that any combustible materials
are properly stored. An exemption is provided for locations specifically
designed for the storage of combustible materials.
Articles 2.4.1.2. to 2.4.1.10. Storage
and Disposal of Combustible Materials
These Articles have been amended to
better describe inappropriate combustible material storage locations.
The phrase "except for building components" has been
added to Article 2.4.1.2. to exclude combustible components such
as wooden handrails, door trim, etc. Proper methods of handling
flammable or combustible liquid spills are now addressed in Article
2.4.1.5.
Article 2.4.7.1. Vacant Buildings
This new Article requires that all vacant
buildings be secured to help prevent acts of vandalism and arson.
Previously, the only means to get a vacant building secured was
by issuing a Fire Marshal's Order. Including this Article in
the Fire Code makes enforcement more expedient.
What constitutes a vacant building can
vary depending on the circumstances. According to the Insurance
Bureau of Canada, the Canadian insurance industry uses two definitions
for vacant. One requires that the premises be unoccupied for
a period of four consecutive days and the other that they be unoccupied
for a period of 30 consecutive days. Black's Law Dictionary does
not use a specified number of days but states that vacant implies
entire abandonment and nonoccupancy for any purpose.
The Fire Code has not adopted a specific
definition. For the purpose of this Article, it is the concept
of being abandoned or of having the appearance of having been
abandoned which is important, rather than any specific time period.
Numerous methods are available to secure
a building. The level of security which is required will vary
depending on the specific circumstances.
It should be noted that when a building
is being secured, it is still necessary to provide sufficient
access for fire fighting and to comply with all applicable requirements
in the Fire Code, including the provision of adequate means of
egress.
Sentence 2.5.1.1.(1) Fire Department
Access
Sentence 2.5.1.1.(1) has been amended
to include fire access routes required by the Fire Code within
the scope of Section 2.5. For example, fire access routes required
by Part 9 must now be identified by signs and maintained under
this Section.
Articles 2.6.1.2. to 2.6.1.8. Heating,
Ventilating and Air-Conditioning
These Articles have been revised and
renumbered to clarify the hazards associated with certain components
of service equipment and the maintenance that is required. In
particular, a requirement to repair or replace chimneys, flues
or flue pipes due to damage or deterioration is stated.
Article 2.6.3.2. Incinerator Maintenance
This Article has been revised to identify
the need to properly maintain both indoor and outdoor incinerators
to NFPA 82, not just outdoor incinerators.
Subsection 2.6.4. Electrical Equipment
Vaults
The application of the requirements
is clarified by replacing the term "transformer vaults"
with "electrical equipment vaults".
Article 2.7.1.4. Occupant Load in
Assembly Occupancies
This Article has been amended to reflect
the requirements in the Building Code for obtaining the occupant
load of an assembly occupancy. It also establishes occupant load
limits. Table 2.7.1.A. has been added to assist in determining
the occupant load for an assembly area based upon the anticipated
uses.
A new requirement places an upper limit
on the occupant load, based on 0.60 m2 per person in
"dining, alcoholic beverage and cafeteria space", and
0.40 m2 per person for all other uses. This ensures
that occupants are not jammed into a space which has adequate
means of egress but which cannot be accessed properly because
of overcrowding.
This Article is also referenced in Article
9.2.3.1. for calculating occupant loads in floor areas of assembly
occupancies for purposes of determining retrofit requirements.
Article 2.7.1.5. Posting Occupant
Load
This Article now refers to Article 2.7.1.4.,
rather than the Building Code, for occupant load determination.
When the occupant load exceeds 60 persons it must be posted in
a conspicuous location.
In addition, this amended Article requires
posting of the occupant load when it is based on a design other
than Table 2.7.1.A. or on the number of fixed seats. This posting
requirement is consistent with the Building Code. For instance,
where the floor area of a room would allow an occupant load of
more than 60 persons but only one egress door from the room exists,
a design consideration could be to limit the occupant load to
60 persons. This occupant load would have to be posted.
Article 2.7.2.1. Exit and Access
to Exit Door Release Hardware
This Article has been restructured to
clarify where panic type or fire exit hardware is required on
exit doors and has been expanded to also include access to exit
doors. It now specifies which access to exit doors and exit doors
must swing on a vertical axis in the direction of exit travel.
A new Sentence states that the door
release hardware requirements do not apply in rapid transit stations
which comply with the Building Code (Section 3.12 of the Building
Code contains substantially different egress requirements from
those stated elsewhere in the Building Code). The Fire Code requires
existing rapid transit stations that do not comply with Section
3.12 of the Building Code to comply with this Article.
Article 2.7.2.2. Exit and Access
to Exit Door Operation
This Article has been revised to include
doors in an access to exit to ensure that occupants can exit from
any point in the building without having to rely on keys, special
devices or special knowledge to open doors.
An exception to this requirement relates
to contained use areas and impeded egress zones. Three conditions
where locking devices may be provided in contained use areas and
impeded egress zones are provided in this amended Article, consistent
with the Building Code.
Electromagnetic locking devices are
now allowed on all exit and access to exit doors, except in elementary
and secondary schools and Group 'F' Division 1 occupancies. These
electromagnetic locking devices must either be approved or installed
in conformance with the Building Code.
A new exception in this Article allows
doors in exits and access to exits in existing rapid transit stations
to have the locking devices, provided these rapid transit stations
have all the features required by Section 3.12 of the Building
Code.
Article 2.7.3.2. Exit Signs
Wording change to this Article clarifies that both
internally and externally illuminated exit signs must be illuminated
when the building is occupied. The Building Code permits both
types of signs.
Article 2.8.1.1. Emergency Planning
- Application
Sentence (2) of this Article has been
expanded to list additional occupancies that are identified elsewhere
in the Fire Code and which require a fire safety plan (e.g. subject
to provisions for outdoor tire storage, for flammable and combustible
liquids, laboratories etc.).
Subsection 2.8.2. Fire Safety Plans
This Subsection has been reorganized
for clarity and includes a new requirement for fire safety plans
to be kept on site and available at all times.
Article 2.8.3.2. Fire Drills
This Article has been amended to require
that fire drill records be kept for a period of one year after
the drill. Without such a record, it is not possible to tell
whether the fire drill frequency has been met.
Article 2.9.2.1. Flameproofing Treatments
for Tents and Air-Supported Structures
This Article has been amended to identify
that it is the owner's responsibility to have flameproofing treatments
renewed as necessary.
Article 2.9.3.3. Fire Alarm or Firewatch
in Tents and Air-Supported Structures
This Article has been amended to clarify
the need for a fire alarm system or firewatch. Discretionary
authority has been added, to allow the Chief Fire Official to
approve a fire alarm system that does not meet the Building Code.
Factors to be considered would be based on the system's ability
to provide adequate early warning to the occupants.
Article 2.11.1.3. Insulation and
Re-Insulation in Roof and Floor Assemblies
A wording change clarifies the intent
to prevent insulation from being added to a roof or floor assembly
where it would reduce the fire-resistance rating of the assembly.
Section 2.13 Installation of Smoke
Alarms
This new Section has been developed
to ensure that every dwelling unit is equipped with at least one
smoke alarm. Specifically, this Section requires owners to install
smoke alarms in homes that were not constructed under the Ontario
Building Code, which was first introduced in December, 1975.
Homes constructed to meet the Building Code should already have
at least one smoke alarm.
For the purposes of this Section, smoke
alarms conforming to CAN/ULC S531, "Smoke Alarms", must
be installed between the sleeping area and the remainder of the
dwelling unit, or in a hallway that serves sleeping areas.
Smoke alarms are required to be hard-wired,
although battery operated units would also be acceptable.
This requirement takes effect when the
Chief Judge (Provincial Division) establishes the fines for not
having a smoke alarm, associated with ticketable offences under
Part I of the Provincial Offences Act.
Complementary maintenance requirements
for all smoke alarms are included in Subsection 6.3.3., which
comes into force at the same time as this Section.
PART 3 - PROPERTY PROTECTION FOR INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL OCCUPANCIES
Articles 3.2.3.8. and 3.2.3.9. Fire
Department Access to Wood Chip Piles
These revised Articles now require access
walkways of a permanent nature, constructed of noncombustible
materials. The Chief Fire Official has the authority to approve
other means of ensuring adequate fire department access to wood
chip piles. For instance, provision of portable turrets, deluge
sets or monitor towers might allow complete hose stream coverage,
minimizing the need for a walkway.
Article 3.3.2.6. Fire Access Aisles
for Indoor General Storage
This Article has been revised to require
a main access aisle extending the full length of the building
with an increased minimum aisle width that is related to the storage
height.
The revision also eliminates the requirement
to have aisles "to the sides" of the building, although
access aisles are still required to exits, fire department access
panels and fire protection equipment.
Article 3.4.1.1. Industrial Trucks
This Article has been amended to require
industrial trucks to conform with NFPA 505, "Powered Industrial
Trucks Including Type Designations, Areas of Use, Maintenance,
and Operation". This is a recognized standard that specifies
proper designation, use, maintenance and operation of these vehicles.
Article 3.4.2.5. Propane Cylinders
for Industrial Trucks
This Article has been amended to reference
the Propane Storage Handling and Utilization Code made under the
Energy Act, which is the proper legislation dealing with
propane cylinder storage. This will ensure consistency with other
pieces of legislation.
Article 3.5.3.10. Security Around
Tire Storage Yards
This Article clarifies the security
requirements around tire storage yards. It also specifies that
overhead portions of gateways must be high enough to allow fire
department vehicle entry.
Section 3.6 Cleaning and Dyeing
Plants
In Article 3.6.1.1., the application
of this Section has been amended to require dry cleaning plants
to conform with specified portions of NFPA 32, "Drycleaning
Plants". As well, specific reference is made to the Ontario
Electrical Safety Code made under the Power Corporation Act
in lieu of NFPA 70, which is referenced by NFPA 32.
An exception has been provided where
existing dry cleaning and dyeing plants may be approved where
the Chief Fire Official believes that an acceptable level of fire
safety is provided.
The remainder of the Section continues
to apply to dry cleaning and dyeing plants, and deals with the
use of combustible liquids, ventilation and control of fire hazards.
PART 4 - FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE
LIQUIDS
The new Part 4 of the Fire Code applies
to the storage, handling, processing and use of flammable and
combustible liquids in all occupancies. Compliance with Part
4 is phased in over a four year period beginning on August 21,
1998.
To assist owners in complying with these
requirements, a separate "Commentary on Part 4 of the Ontario
Fire Code" and audit guides have been developed. Please
refer to those documents for complete details.
PART 5 - HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, PROCESSES AND OPERATIONS
Subsection 5.2.2. Fireworks and
Pyrotechnics
The scope of this Subsection has been
expanded to include pyrotechnics. This was always the intent
but was not specifically stated. In addition, reference to the
appropriate manuals has been updated.
Article 5.3.1.1. Matches
This Article has been amended to be
consistent with current federal legislation which addresses all
classification, packaging and labeling requirements for matches.
Sentences 5.6.1.1.(2) and (3) Compressed
Gas Cylinders
These new Sentences have been added
to narrow the scope to which Section 5.6 applies.
Sentence (2) exempts manufacturers of
compressed gas, or facilities where cylinders are filled or distributed
when storage and handling meets certain criteria. This exemption
recognizes the unique nature of these operations and the impracticality
of applying the storage conditions due to the large number of
cylinders located in these facilities. It also recognizes that
the employees will be trained about proper handling and hazards.
Sentence (3) has been added to exempt
users of small quantities of compressed gases, such as doctors,
dentists and jewellers, since the application of the stringent
requirements is not warranted in the circumstances and creates
unnecessary hardship.
Sentence 5.6.1.1.(4) Poisonous and
Corrosive Compressed Gas Cylinders
This Sentence has been added to clarify
that requirements of Articles 5.6.2.1. to 5.6.2.4. apply to the
storage of any amount of poisonous or corrosive compressed gases,
such as chlorine or anhydrous ammonia gas.
Article 5.6.1.2. Protection and
Storage of Compressed Gas Cylinders
This Article has been amended to clarify
the methods of storing cylinders to minimize the chance of accidental
damage. Where the storage arrangements are not as specified,
the other methods must be approved.
Article 5.6.1.4. Compressed Gas
Cylinder Valve Protection
This Article has been amended to permit
alternative ways to protect cylinder valves from damage besides
the use of valve caps. For example, use of collars that are welded
to the cylinder or placing cylinders in a box or metal cage would
now meet the intent of this requirement.
Article 5.6.1.6. Ventilation for
Compressed Gas Cylinder Storage
This Article now requires that ventilation
satisfy the criteria in Sentence 5.6.2.4.(4). The continued intent
is to ensure there is no buildup of the gases in an enclosed space.
Sentence 5.6.2.3.(1) Clearances
of Compressed Gases from Building Openings
This Sentence has been amended to state
that the volumes specified are for expanded gases at room temperature.
The aggregate volume of a gas at standard temperature and pressure
is a function of the container's liquid capacity, the liquid density
and it's molecular weight.
Clauses 5.6.2.4.(1)(d) and (f) Indoor
Storage of Flammable Compressed Gases
Clause (1)(d) has been amended to permit
an interior door from a flammable gas storage room into a building
if the door is appropriately rated and constructed to be gas tight.
Previously such a storage room could only be accessed from the
outside.
Clause (1)(f) has been amended to reference
specific ventilation criteria. Natural or mechanical ventilation
requirements for rooms storing flammable compressed gases are
detailed in new Sentence 5.6.2.4.(4).
Sentence 5.6.2.4.(3) Storage of
Heavier than Air Flammable Compressed Gases
This Sentence provides an exception
to the storage room requirements in Sentence (1), and applies
to heavier than air flammable compressed gases such as propane.
Containment, quantity, location and ventilation requirements
are specified. This Sentence does not apply to cylinders in use;
rather it is intended for cylinder storage.
Sentence 5.6.2.4.(4) Ventilation
in Storage Rooms for Flammable Compressed Gases
This Sentence has been added to provide
further guidance on acceptable ventilation requirements for compressed
gases storage rooms by providing both performance requirements
and a specification on how to achieve similar ventilation rates
through natural means. It is important to note that this requirement
applies to compressed gas storage, as opposed to compressed gas
that is in use.
Article 5.6.2.7. Storage Restrictions
of Compressed Gases that May React With Each Other
This Article has been amended to fully
describe ways and means of storing and separating compressed gases
that have differing characteristics and may react with each other.
Lighter than air gases have a tendency to rise and dilute on
discharge. Gases which are heavier than air accumulate and migrate
along the floor. This revision accommodates both these physical
characteristics.
Sentence 5.12.2.1.(3) Spray Booth
Floors
Reference to non-sparking material has
been deleted from this Sentence. It was intended to guard against
the possibility of static sparks being generated by the use of
ferrous tools or equipment but continuation of the requirement
is not warranted, nor required by other Codes.
Article 5.12.2.4. Spray Booth Fan
Blades and Casings
This Article has been amended to allow
ferrous material for exhaust fan blades and casings as long as
there is no contact between ferrous parts. The intent is to ensure
that the fan does not become a source of ignition by causing sparks
from contact between the fan blade and casing which could ignite
flammable vapours or residue in the exhaust duct and spray booth.
Article 5.12.3.1. Spray Booth Mechanical
Ventilation
This Article has been amended to specify
that mechanical ventilation must be provided so that concentration
of flammable vapours or combustible dust does not exceed 25 per
cent of the lower explosive limit (LEL).
Article 5.12.3.6. Maintenance of
Air Velocity in Spray Booths
This Article has been amended to ensure
that corrective action will be taken when the required gauges
or alarms indicate low air velocities at the face of the spray
booth. This is intended to prevent dangerous concentrations of
flammable vapours or combustible dust from building up in the
area immediately surrounding open-face spray booths.
Article 5.12.7.2. Spray Booth Cleaning
and Residue Disposal
This Article has been amended to address
the fire risk from the accumulation of combustible residue in
spray booths. The owner must keep the inner surfaces of the spray
booth from accumulations of combustible residue that may present
a fire hazard. Proper disposal of the residue on the same day
as the cleaning operation is now required.
The amendment also refers to specific
Articles that provide criteria for acceptable containers used
for disposal of the combustible residue and removes the onus on
the Chief Fire Official to approve them.
Article 5.12.9.2. Drying Operations
This Article has been revised to restrict
the use of any drying or curing equipment in or near a spraying
area where the equipment is capable of causing ignition of flammable
vapours, such as by a spark, open flame or hot surface. Previously,
this Article only restricted equipment that utilized open flames
or produced sparks.
Article 5.12.9.3. Drying Operations
Adjacent to Spraying Areas
This Article has been amended to include
specific ventilation criteria to limit flammable vapour or combustible
dust concentrations at no more than 25 per cent of the lower explosive
limit (LEL) for drying areas that are set up adjacent to spraying
areas.
Article 5.12.9.4. Automobile Spray
Booths Used for Drying
This Article has been amended to reference
Section 5.18 for proper design of an automobile spray booth where
drying also takes place. It also restricts portable heating devices
to infrared types, if used in these spray booths.
Specific criteria has been included
in the amendments for ventilation to limit flammable vapour or
combustible dust concentrations to a maximum 25 per cent of the
lower explosive limit (LEL).
Article 5.13.1.1. Dip Tanks for
Flammable or Combustible Liquids
This Article has been amended to clarify
that a properly designed and separated room is required when the
dip tank volume exceeds 45 litres or the dip tank liquid surface
area is greater 0.40 m2. Other requirements in this
Subsection continue to apply to all dip tanks.
Article 5.14.2.5. Flow-Coating Operations
This Article has been amended to limit
the scope of the requirements to flammable and combustible liquids
only.
Shut down of a pumping supply system
has also been amended to allow alternative listed devices for
automatically shutting down the liquid pumping operation in the
event of a fire. In addition to heat-actuated devices which were
previously permitted, other methods might include products-of-combustion,
infrared or UV detectors.
PART 6 - FIRE PROTECTION
EQUIPMENT
Article 6.2.1.1. Portable Extinguishers
This Article now accepts the use of
any "listed" extinguisher, not just ULC labeled extinguishers.
Sentences 6.2.4.1.(1) and 6.2.6.1.(1)
Portable Extinguisher Location
These Sentences have been amended so
that location and use of portable extinguishers relate to occupancies
located both inside and outside buildings. This has always been
the intent, but was not specifically stated previously.
Table 6.2.6.A. Extinguishers for
Class A Fires
This table no longer contains references
to 1A rated extinguishers because they are considered inadequate
for all occupancies within the scope of Section 6.2.
Article 6.2.6.9. Extinguishers for
Flammable and Combustible Liquids in Open Containers
This Article now identifies that minimum
extinguisher requirements shall not be less than that required
in Table 6.2.6.B. As well, a maximum travel distance of 15 m
to a portable extinguisher is now specified for this application.
Article 6.2.6.12. Extinguishers
for Commercial Cooking Equipment
This Article has been amended to permit
wet chemical extinguishers for the protection of commercial cooking
equipment in addition to alkali based dry chemical extinguishers.
Wet chemical extinguishers are commonly
potassium acetate-based, potassium carbonate-based or potassium
citrate-based.
Article 6.2.6.16. Portable Extinguisher
Distribution for Combustible Metal Fires
This Article has been added to include
the portable extinguisher requirements for Class D fires. This
requirement was not previously provided in the Fire Code.
Article 6.2.7.1. Inspection, Testing
and Maintenance of Extinguishers
Amendments to this Article effectively
ban the use of extinguishers of copper/brass solder shell construction,
through reference to NFPA 10, "Portable Fire Extinguishers".
Given the potential hazard for these extinguishers to rupture
due to normal internal operating pressures, such a ban is appropriate.
Article 6.2.7.4. Record of Inspection
of Extinguishers
Sentence (2) has been added to this
Article to allow other means of keeping records of extinguisher
maintenance and recharge dates if approved by the Chief Fire Official.
Computerized check sheets constitute one means of record keeping
that could be approved.
Article 6.3.1.6. Security of Fire
Alarm Power Supply
This new Article requires that disconnect
switches for the power supply for fire alarms and interconnected
smoke alarms must be maintained in a secure area or be otherwise
approved by the Chief Fire Official.
Unrestricted access to the power supply
resulted in the alarm system impairment that was a contributing
factor in the fatal fire at the Rupert Hotel in Toronto.
Article 6.3.1.7. Relocating Manual
Pull Stations
This Article has been added to address
the high incidence of false alarms due to malicious acts. It
allows relocation of manual pull stations to locations less susceptible
to abuse. Before considering relocation, there is merit in investigating
the nature of the false alarms, and considering possible deterrents
such as increased security, permanent inks, pull station covers
etc. Relocation of manual pull stations may simply involve shifting
devices to locations that are more visible, or by setting the
devices further back from doors.
The Chief Fire Official must be satisfied
that alternate life safety measures are provided before granting
approval.
Changes to the activation of the fire
alarm system are also required be identified in the fire safety
plan.
Article 6.3.1.8. Repairs to Fire
Alarm Systems
This new Article specifies that any
repair or alteration work on fire alarm systems must be carried
out in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, "Installation of Fire
Alarm Systems". Previously, there was no specific standard
for remedial work and this led to concerns over the reliability
of systems or components that had been serviced.
Article 6.3.2.1. Tests and Repairs
for Fire Alarm Systems
This Article has been added to clarify
the building owner's responsibility for ensuring that only qualified
persons carry out the annual inspections and tests or work on
fire alarm systems.
The owner need not comply with this
requirement until November 21, 1999, which corresponds with the
requirement in Subsection 1.1.5. for the qualification of persons
performing work on fire alarm systems.
Articles 6.3.2.4. and 6.3.2.5. Voice
Communication Systems
These Articles have been amended to
specify different test requirements for voice communication systems,
depending on whether or not they are integrated with the fire
alarm system. For integrated voice systems, testing must be in
compliance with CAN/ULC-S536, "Inspection and Testing of
Fire Alarm Systems".
Voice systems that are not integrated
with the fire alarm system must be tested in compliance with Article
6.3.2.5.
Subsection 6.3.3. Smoke Alarms -
Testing and Maintenance
This new Subsection requires smoke alarms
to be maintained in operating condition by the owner.
The Subsection also requires that where
smoke alarms are being replaced, the level of detection required
by the Building Code or municipal by-law at the time of construction
be maintained. For example, battery operated smoke alarms cannot
be used to replace hard-wired smoke alarms required by the Building
Code at the time of construction.
In rental dwelling units, the landlord
is considered as the owner and is responsible for maintaining
the smoke alarms in operable condition. The landlord must also
provide a copy of the maintenance requirements (manufacturer's
instructions or approved alternative) to the tenant.
A new Article also prohibits anyone
from intentionally tampering with a smoke alarm so as to render
it inoperable.
As with Section 2.13, these requirements
come into effect when the Chief Judge (Provincial Division) establishes
the fines for not maintaining a smoke alarm, associated with ticketable
offences under the Provincial Offences Act.
Article 6.4.1.3. Standpipe and Hose
System Fire Department Connections
This Article has been amended to ensure
that where fire department connections are damaged, corrective
action is taken. In addition, if it is found that the caps or
plugs are missing, back flushing of the line may be necessary
prior to replacing the caps of plugs.
A similar change for sprinkler fire
department connections has been made in Article 6.5.4.4.
Sentence 6.4.2.7.(1) Fire Hose Cabinets
This new Sentence permits fire hose
stations to be located in approved lockable hose cabinets to reduce
the incidence of theft and vandalism. Sentence 6.2.1.3.(2) also
permits lockable hose cabinets that contain portable extinguishers.
Sentence 6.4.2.7.(2) Fire Hose Cabinets
in Group 'B' Division 1 Occupancies
This new Sentence allows security measures
to be taken for hose cabinets in facilities where persons are
under restraint for correctional purposes.
Sentence 6.5.1.6.(5) Sprinkler Testing
This Sentence now clarifies that the
objective of the main drain flow test is to ensure that there
are no obstructions to the sprinkler water supply. It is the
flowing water pressure that is observed to determine if there
are obstructions.
Table 6.5.1.A. Flushing of Underground
Mains for Sprinkler Systems
This table has been amended to bring
the flow rates for flushing underground feed mains for sprinkler
systems in line with the recognized standard, NFPA 24, "Installation
of Private Service Mains and Their Appurtenances". The required
flushing flow rates are generally significantly increased. The
flow rate has been changed from L/s to L/min, which is a more
widely accepted unit of measurement, and 100 mm pipe size has
been added because it is common in small sprinkler systems.
Article 6.5.3.3. Pressure Maintenance
in Sprinkler Systems
This Article has been amended to include
weekly checking of water and/or air pressures on both the upstream
side and downstream side of alarm-check valves or dry-valves of
both wet and dry sprinkler systems. This weekly check is intended
to monitor leaks in these sprinkler systems and helps confirm
that the systems are operational.
Article 6.5.4.3. Dry-Pipe Sprinkler
Valve Priming Water Level
This Article has been amended to increase
the inspection frequency for confirming proper priming water levels
in dry-pipe sprinkler systems to every 3 months. This period
is consistent with NFPA 25, "Inspection, Testing and Maintenance
of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems". If the priming
water is not maintained at the proper level, false tripping of
the alarm valve or total system failure can result.
Article 6.5.4.4. Sprinkler System
Fire Department Connections
This Article has been amended to ensure
that where fire department connections are damaged, corrective
action is taken. In addition, if it is found that the caps or
plugs are missing, back flushing of the line may be necessary
prior to replacing the caps of plugs.
A similar change for standpipe fire
department connections has been made in Article 6.4.1.3.
Article 6.5.5.2. Sprinkler Alarm
Testing
This Article has been amended to clarify
that testing of sprinkler alarms is to be carried out by flowing
water through the test connection at the sprinkler control valve.
The amendments also relax the alarm testing frequency of electrically
supervised sprinkler systems where the system operates in conformance
with Article 6.5.5.7.
This Article now has an additional requirement
to clear the alarm line so as to prevent freezing after the test.
Article 6.5.5.4. Trip Testing of
Dry-Pipe Valves
This Article has been amended to include
details on the proper method and frequency for trip testing dry-pipe
valves on dry sprinkler systems. This includes a minimum annual
frequency with the main control valve partially open and a minimum
3 year frequency with the control valve fully open.
The dry-pipe valve trip time (the time
that it takes for the valve to open and permit water to enter
into the sprinkler system) is also required to be maintained within
10 per cent of its original design. This allowance recognizes
that long term deterioration of the sprinkler system may result
in a variance in the trip time, and is acceptable within certain
limitations.
If the trip time exceeds this allowance,
the system must be checked to determine the cause and corrective
action taken.
Sentence 6.5.5.7.(1) Electrical
Supervision Signal Testing
This Sentence has been amended to clarify
that the signal device on the sprinkler system must be operated
to ensure that it functions reliably. For example, where a sprinkler
control valve has a supervisory switch, the control valve should
be operated to ensure that the switch will transmit a signal to
the control panel.
Article 6.5.6.6. Protection for
Combustible Sprinkler Piping
This Article has been added to clarify
that protection for combustible sprinkler piping which is installed
to meet the Building Code must also be maintained. For instance,
the required thermal barrier which separates the plastic piping
from the floor area protected by the sprinklers must be maintained
in good condition.
Article 6.6.5.2. Inspection of Hydrants
This Article has been amended to clarify
actions that are required to ensure that a hydrant is operable.
This includes checking that hydrant caps are in place and the
need for an examination of the hydrant barrel for obstructions
if the hydrant caps are missing. The word "threads"
has been replaced by "connections" to accommodate quick
connect couplings.
Article 6.6.5.5. Hydrant Leakage
This Article has been amended to permit
alternative methods to keep hydrants from freezing if they do
not drain properly. This is subject to approval by the Chief
Fire Official and is intended for hydrants that are impractical
to repair.
For example, a hydrant located in an
area with a high water table may impede the ability of the hydrant
barrel to drain properly, but the problem could be addressed by
injecting antifreeze into the barrel of the hydrant for the winter
months.
Article 6.7.1.4. Fuel Supply for
Emergency Power Systems
This Article has been amended to reduce
the fuel supply that is required for emergency electrical power
systems from 8 hours to 2 hours. This is consistent with the
current Ontario Building Code and National Fire Code.
PART 7 - INSPECTION, TESTING
AND MAINTENANCE OF FIRE EMERGENCY SYSTEMS IN HIGH BUILDINGS
Article 7.2.1.2. Maintenance of
Firefighters' Elevators
This Article has been expanded to include
firefighters' elevators required in buildings under Part 9 of
the Fire Code.
Sentence 7.2.2.1.(1) Elevator Door-Opening
Devices
This Sentence has been amended to increase
the door open time limit for photo-electric operated elevators
to a maximum of 20 seconds from 10 seconds. This is now consistent
with the Building Code.
Sentence 7.2.3.1.(4) Maintenance
of Smoke Venting Systems
This Sentence has been amended to identify
the proper Building Code reference.
PART 8 - DEMOLITION
Sentences 8.1.2.2.(4) and (5) Fire
Safety Planning for Demolition
These Sentences have been added to provide
a greater degree of fire safety at demolition sites by requiring
the establishment of practices and procedures to control fire
hazards and maintain fire protection equipment. As well, demolition
site personnel must be instructed on fire emergency procedures
to be taken in the event of a fire. This is consistent with the
National Fire Code.
Sentence 8.1.2.3.(2) Combustible
Salvage
This Sentence has been added to specify
design and installation criteria for temporary refuse chutes at
demolition sites. This is intended to enhance the fire safety
at demolition sites by ensuring that temporary refuse chutes do
not facilitate fire spread.
Sentence 8.1.2.6.(5) Maintenance
of Standpipe Systems in High-Rise Buildings Under Demolition
This Sentence has been amended to clarify
that in buildings under demolition, existing standpipes must be
connected to an operational fire pump and water supply. This
is to ensure that there will be a reliable water supply for fire
department use.
This requirement only applies to buildings
that exceed 84 metres in building height.
PART 9 - RETROFIT
Although not stated explicitly in Part
9, work carried out to comply with Part 9 does not relieve the
owner of the building from obtaining a building permit where required
under the Building Code Act.
Definitions for the terms "Building
Code" and "existing" are identified at the beginning
of each Section of Retrofit in order to eliminate confusion over
which edition of the Building Code is referenced in the requirements.
The definition for "existing" stated in each Section
allows certain features in a building to receive credit as a compliance
alternative.
Section 9.2 Assembly Buildings
Sentence 9.2.1.1.(2) Definitions
This Sentence provides specific definitions
for the terms "1986 Building Code" as meaning O. Reg.
419/86, and "existing" as it refers to building components
being in place in the building on February 11, 1987. The definitions
of these terms are for purposes of this Section only.
For ease of use, the appropriate Building
Code references are contained in Appendix A.
Article 9.2.3.1. Occupant Load Determination
in Assembly Occupancies
This Article now refers to revised Article
2.7.1.4. for occupant load calculations, rather than a Building
Code table. This updates and clarifies occupant load calculations
and eliminates confusion that existed due to differing calculation
methods.
Articles 9.2.3.7. to 9.2.3.9. Widths
of Exits in Assembly Occupancies
The term "units of exit width"
as a means of specifying required exit widths from assembly areas
has been deleted from the Articles. Instead, the current practice
of calculating exit widths based on the full net width of the
egress path is identified. This is consistent with the Building
Code. Minimum stair and corridor widths are still specified in
paths of egress travel.
Section 9.3 Boarding, Lodging and
Rooming Houses
Sentence 9.3.1.1.(3) Definitions
This Sentence provides specific definitions
for the terms "1986 Building Code" as meaning O. Reg.
419/86, and "existing" as it refers to building components
being in place in the building on February 11, 1987. The definitions
of these terms are for purposes of this Section only.
For ease of use, the appropriate Building
Code references are contained in Appendix A.
Articles 9.3.2.1. to 9.3.2.4. Required
Fire Separations
These Articles have been amended to
clarify the intent and to be consistent with fire separation requirements
as described in other Sections of Retrofit. Fire separation requirements
for floor assemblies and guest rooms are now clearly stated.
Also, Subsection 9.10.3. of the Building
Code is now specifically referenced for construction of fire separations.
Sentence 9.3.2.5.(2) Fire Separations
for Furnace Rooms
This Sentence has been added to permit
existing walls consisting of lath and plaster or gypsum board
to be acceptable in lieu of a 45-min fire separation. This is
consistent with other Retrofit Sections of the Fire Code.
Article 9.3.3.13. Emergency Lighting
This Article has been amended to reference
Article 9.9.11.5. of the Building Code (in addition to Article
9.9.11.4.). These references relate to emergency lighting.
Articles 9.3.4.1. and 9.3.4.2. Alarm
and Detection Requirements
These Articles have been amended to
more clearly identify the application of the fire alarm requirements
for buildings covered under this Section. The requirements are
dependent upon the type and rating of fire separations and the
occupant load.
Generally, a fire alarm system is not
required where the occupant load is 10 persons or less, each sleeping
room is served by a properly separated and rated corridor and
the floors are also properly separated and rated. In most other
cases, a fire alarm system would be required.
Section 9.4 Health Care Facilities
Sentence 9.4.1.1.(2) Definitions
This Sentence provides specific definitions
for the terms "1986 Building Code" as meaning O. Reg.
419/86, and "existing" as it refers to building components
being in place in the building on February 11, 1987. The definitions
of these terms are for purposes of this Section only.
For ease of use, the appropriate Building
Code references are contained in Appendix A.
Article 9.4.2.13. Vertical Service
Spaces in Health Care Facilities
This Article has been reworded to be
consistent with other Sections in the Fire Code.
Section 9.5 Buildings Up to and
Including Six Storeys in Building Height with Residential Occupancies
Sentence 9.5.1.1.(4) Definitions
This Sentence provides specific definitions
for the terms "1990 Building Code" as meaning O. Reg.
413/90, and "existing" as it refers to building components
being in place in the building on October 9, 1992. The definitions
of these terms are for purposes of this Section only.
For ease of use, the appropriate Building
Code references are contained in Appendix B.
Sentence 9.5.2.8.(6) Closures in
Fire Separations
This editorial amendment clarifies that
the waiver of a self-closing device only pertains to suite doors
that do not open into a dead end corridor or exit.
Sentence 9.5.3.1.(3) Access to Exits
This new Sentence provides another option
for egress and containment for boarding and lodging facilities
with up to 10 residents where not more than 2 residents require
assistance to evacuate in a fire emergency. This option will
serve to maintain the family living environment of these types
of facilities, while still providing an appropriate level of fire
safety.
Sentence 9.5.3.7.(2) Fire Escapes
This Sentence has been revised to apply
only where a fire escape serves any storey above the second floor.
This change is consistent with the Building Code.
Sentence 9.5.4.1.(3) Fire Alarm
Requirements
This Sentence now clarifies the conditions
under which a fire alarm is not required in the building, dependent
upon either the number of dwelling units that have access to an
exit or, in a boarding and lodging facility, the number of persons
that have access to an exit.
Section 9.6 Buildings Higher Than
Six Storeys in Building Height with Residential Occupancies
Sentence 9.6.1.1.(4) Definitions
This Sentence provides specific definitions
for the terms "1990 Building Code" as meaning O. Reg.
413/90, and "existing" as it refers to building components
being in place in the building on October 9, 1992. The definitions
of these terms are for purposes of this Section only.
For ease of use, the appropriate Building
Code references are contained in Appendix B.
Sentence 9.6.5.2.(3) Standpipe Systems
This Sentence continues to permit existing
standpipe systems with specified water flows, but the amendment
clarifies that proper floor coverage for the standpipe outlets
must still be provided.
Sentence 9.6.5.2.(4) Emergency Power
for Standpipe Systems
This Sentence has been clarified as
to the conditions under which emergency power is required for
standpipe systems. It applies to standpipe systems that require
more than one pump in series to provide a multi-staged boost of
the water supply to feed the hose stations in the upper portions
of high buildings.
These standpipe systems require an emergency
power supply in the event of an electrical power failure, as the
fire department would not likely have the equipment to boost water
to the upper portions of the building using the fire department
pumper connection.
Sentence 9.6.5.4.(3) Hydrants
This Sentence has been added to permit
existing hydrant locations that have sufficient fire suppression
capability and are approved by the Chief Fire Official. Aspects
that could influence the acceptability of the arrangement include,
but are not limited to, the presence of a booster pump equipped
with emergency power, enhanced fire suppression within the building
(e.g. being fully sprinklered), and availability of manpower and
apparatus to respond.
Section 9.8 Two Unit Residential
Occupancies
Sentence 9.8.1.1.(2) Definitions
This Sentence provides specific definitions
for the terms "1994 Building Code" as meaning R.R.O.
1990, Regulation 61, as amended, and "existing" as it
refers to building components being in place in the building on
July 14, 1994. The definitions of these terms are for purposes
of this Section only.
For ease of use, the appropriate Building
Code references are contained in Appendix C.
Article 9.8.4.3. Maintenance of
Smoke Alarms
This Article has been amended so that
it will be revoked when the general maintenance requirements for
all smoke alarms in Subsection 6.3.3. come into force. This will
eliminate duplication and specify more precise requirements for
maintenance of smoke alarms.
APPENDICES
Three new Appendices have been printed
with the consolidated Fire Code as follows:
Appendix A, 1986 Building Code References,
which contains extracts from
O. Reg. 419/86, as referenced in Sections 9.2, 9.3 and 9.4 of
the Fire Code;
Appendix B, 1990 Building Code References,
which contains extracts from
O. Reg. 413/90, as referenced in Sections 9.5 and 9.6 of the Fire
Code; and
Appendix C, 1994 Building Code References,
which contains extracts from
R.R.O. 1990, Regulation 61, as amended by O. Reg. 400/91, 158/93,
160/93 and 383/94. These provisions are referenced in Section
9.8 of the Fire Code.
The intent of the new Appendices is
to provide the user of the Fire Code with convenient access to
Building Code references made in Part 9 of the Fire Code. Wherever
possible, the Appendices provide exact wording from the original
documents. In some cases this is not possible due to the extent
of the reference. In those instances, an explanatory note has
been provided in place of the original text of the regulation.
The appendix material is provided for convenience only. For accurate reference, code users are cautioned to use the Official Ontario Regulations.
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