Opinions & Applications for the Fire Code (1997 edition) (revoked November 21, 2007)

9.6.4.1. FIRE ALARM REQUIREMENTS

The intent of a fire alarm system under Article 9.6.4.1. is to alert all occupants of a building to a fire emergency so that evacuation procedures can be initiated. The audibility of the fire alarm should be such that it can be heard throughout the building.

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Application:

A1 There is a difference between upgrading an existing system and installing a new system. If someone completely removes the old system and installs a new one then it must meet the OBC. Where an existing fire alarm system needs to be upgraded, the new system need only comply with Sentence 9.6.4.1.(2), which does not require smoke detectors in corridors (unless used as an alternative measure for some other specific requirement of Retrofit) and requires fire detectors in exit stair shafts.

Q2 Is fire alarm audibility addressed in the Fire Code?

A2 The Ontario Fire Code does not specifically address the issue of fire alarm audibility for existing systems. This, however does not mean that existing systems are acceptable regardless of the sound pressure level produced. It is suggested that the issue be addressed from a performance perspective.

This matter could also be resolved under Section 2.8 of the Ontario Fire Code, which contains requirements for fire safety and evacuation planning. A cooperative effort involving the occupants, landlord and fire service to develop a workable fire safety and evacuation plan, taking into consideration any limitations by fire alarm signal devices and building construction features would satisfy the intent of the Fire Code with respect to audibility. Where such measures are not effective a Fire Marshals Order may be issued under Section 18, to resolve the audibility issue.

Q3 Is there a recommended decibel level for the alarm signal?

A3 The recommended decibel level is 15 dBA over ambient, but with a minimum volume not less than 65 dBA. There is, however, an increasing acceptance of 75 dBA as the sound pressure level which when measured at a person's head on the bed, will awaken most people (more than 80% of the population). Please refer to the Canadian Fire Alarm Association Journal, Feb. 1995 issue for more information. Rather than placing total reliance on a specific decibel level, it is prudent to ensure that the intended performance is satisfied, namely that the signal can be heard within the suites, that it is distinguishable as a fire alarm and its noise level is above ambient conditions. The term "ambient" relates to normal, continuous noise (e.g. heating, ventilation, air conditioning), not toilets flushing or other intermittent noises.

Q4 Does Retrofit legislation address the issue of special equipment for disabled persons (such as visual signal appliances for persons with hearing impairments)?

A4 Special requirements for disabled persons with respect to fire alarm audibility is not handled as a retrofit issue. However, this issue should be addressed in the Fire Safety Plan per Section 2.8 of the Fire Code.

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Application:

A1 The exit stairs need not be zoned separately. However, the zone which includes the stairs should be clearly identified on the annunciator panel. It may be acceptable to include the exit stair in an existing zone such as the top floor.

9.6.4.7. VOICE COMMUNCATION SYSTEM

The intent of a voice communication system under this Article is to provide an audible verbal signal clearly heard, in common areas of the building (except for elevator cars) and within the dwelling units. The occupants of the dwelling units should be aware of these locations (identified in the Fire Safety Plan).

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Application:

A1 No, the voice communication system may be installed in accordance with Sentence (2) of this Article.

Q2 Can an alternative measure of enhancing the fire alarm system by providing smoke detectors in the corridors be considered in lieu of installing a voice communication system?

A2 A voice communication system is intended to provide a means of communicating instructions to the occupants during a fire emergency. This may include instructions on what exit to use or to stay in place and not attempt to evacuate. The smoke detectors in the corridor may provide earlier warning of a fire condition but would do little to communicate instructions to the occupants. Emergency procedures requiring evacuation depend on immediate response by the occupants. Practical experience has shown that evacuation of a highrise building requires much more time and often occurs during suppression efforts by firefighters. The alternative provision proposed is not considered to provide an equivalent level of safety.

Q3 Is the audibility level of voice communication systems addressed in the Fire Code?

A3 The system should provide a verbal signal clearly heard in all occupied areas of the building and within the means of egress. The Ontario Fire Code does not specifically address the required sound level of a voice communication system. A voice communication system is not intended to alert the occupants to an emergency. It is used to transmit instructions to the occupants during a fire emergency after they have been alerted by the fire alarm system. The instructions may include the location of the fire and whether they should or should not evacuate the building, and which evacuation route to be taken. A secondary use would be by the firefighters, to coordinate suppression efforts.

Q4 What criteria should be used to determine if an existing intercom system is adequate for use as a voice communication system in a highrise residential building?

A4 Existing residential buildings are often provided with intercom systems to notify the occupants of visitors attempting to gain entry into the building. Some of these systems use the suite phone system and some use a wall speaker/microphone in each suite. The in-suite wall intercom systems are often used as a component of the building voice communication system but are usually separate from the fire alarm system.

Existing intercom systems may be approved by the Chief Fire Official for use as a voice communication system as long as they are compatible with the fire safety plan and are capable of communicating instructions to the building occupants. The following are some criteria that could be considered in determining the acceptability of an existing system.

1. The intercom system should provide sufficient clarity and volume for instructions to be easily heard in each suite, and in all public areas of the building (e.g. corridors, stairways, elevator lobby and recreational areas). Where the intercom system within each suite is only clearly audible within a few feet of the speaker then a pre-message tone should be provided to notify the suite occupants of an impending message. Telephone intercom systems may need additional speakers in the suites to provide satisfactory audibility.

2. The intercom system should be specified in the building fire safety plan as a voice communication system, with appropriate instructions on its proper use in a fire emergency. This should include instructions for suite occupants on how the in-suite intercom functions to provide information and instructions during a fire.

3. The intercom system shall automatically silence the fire alarm system when it is being used to deliver instructions/information.

4. Control of the intercom system should be from the main entrance/lobby area, and have the capability to override the normal intercom use of the system.

5. The intercom system should have an emergency power supply capable of operating the intercom system for a period of at least 2 hours.

It should be noted that the intercom system would not require electrical supervision for faults or grounds, and it would not be required to have zone controlled communication. As well, if the intercom system is deemed to be used in a continuous manner similar to paging systems, the frequency of testing waiver as provided in OFC Sentence 6.3.2.3.(3) pertains.