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Office of the Fire Marshal

OFM-TG-01-2007

 
 
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Hotel Retrofit Building Audit (Comprehensive)

O

F

M

GUIDELINE

 

 

 


January 2007
 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION

Abstract

1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Instructions For Using The Audit Guideline
1.2 Definitions Of Words And Phrases
1.3 Cross Reference To Section 9.9 Requirements

2.0 BUILDING IDENTIFICATION AND INFORMATION

3.0 DETERMINE WHICH SECTIONS OF THE GUIDE APPLY TO THE BUILDING BEING AUDITED

3.1 Building Regulated By Other Retrofit Sections
3.2 Building One Storey In Building Height With Limited Building Area
3.3 All Other Buildings

4.0 DETERMINE THE BUILDING HEIGHT AND BUILDING AREA

4.1 Determine The Building Height
4.2 Determine The Building Area
4.3 Calculating Building Area

5.0 DETERMINE THE TYPE OF BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

6.0 FIRE SEPARATING THE BUILDING FROM AN ADJOINING BUILDING NOT CONTAINING A HOTEL

6.1 Attached Buildings Fire Separated By A Noncombustible Fire Separation Having A 2-Hr Fire Resistance Rating
6.2 Attached Buildings Fire Separated By A Combustible Fire Separation Having A 2 Hr Fire Resistance Rating
6.3 Buildings Connected By An Above Ground Walkway
6.4 Buildings Connected By An Underground Walkway

7.0 SMOKE ALARMS IN GUEST SUITES

8.0 FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION

8.1 Exemption For Small Buildings
8.2 Interconnected Smoke Alarms Permitted In Lieu Of A Fire Alarm System
8.3 Buildings Requiring A Fire Alarm System
8.4 Automatic Detection
8.5 Manual Pull Stations
8.6 Alarm Signalling Devices
8.7 Annunciator Panels
8.8 Fire Alarm Shutdown Of Recirculating Air Handling Systems
8.9 Trouble Signals
8.10 Fire Alarm System Operation
8.11 Continuity Of Fire Alarm System
8.12 Electrical Supervision Of The Fire Alarm System
8.13 Emergency Power For The Fire Alarm System
8.14 Primary Power For The Fire Alarm System
8.15 Installation, Extension, Modifications To The Existing System

9.0 VOICE COMMUNICATION SYSTEM

10.0 ACCESS ROUTE FOR FIRE FIGHTING

10.1 Access Route For Buildings 6 Storeys Or Less In Building Height
10.2 Access Route For Buildings 7 Storeys Or More In Building Height

11.0 STANDPIPE SYSTEM

12.0 ELEVATORS FOR FIREFIGHTERS’ USE

13.0 IDENTIFY AND ASSESS THE QUALITY OF STRUCTURAL FLOOR ASSEMBLIES AND SUPPORTING ASSEMBLIES

13.1 Building 1 To 3 Storeys In Building Height With Limited Building Area
13.2 Building 1 To 4 Storeys In Building Height With Unlimited Building Area
13.3 Building 5 Or 6 Storeys In Building Height
13.4 Buildings 7 Or More Storeys In Building Height

14.0 IDENTIFY AND ASSESS THE QUALITY OF REQUIRED FIRE SEPARATIONS WITHIN FLOOR AREAS

14.1 Between Guest Suites And Adjacent Rooms Or Areas
14.2 Between Corridors Serving Guest Suites And Adjacent Rooms
14.3 Between Major Occupancies
14.4 Between Laundry Rooms, Storage Rooms, Maintenance Shops And The Remainder Of The Building
14.5 Between Kitchens And The Remainder Of The Building
14.6 Between Rooms Containing Fuel-Fired Appliance And The Remainder Of The Building
14.7 Vertical Service Spaces And The Remainder Of The Building (Excluding Shafts Containing Refuse And Linen Chutes)
14.8 Refuse And Linen Chute Facilities And The Remainder Of The Building

15.0 PROTECTION OF OPENINGS IN REQUIRED FIRE SEPARATIONS

15.1 Determine The Adequacy Of Closures In Required Fire Separations

16.0 PIPES, DUCTS AND PLENUMS SERVING HEATING AND AIR HANDLING SYSTEMS

16.1 Exits, Corridors And Air Handling Systems
16.2 Combustibility Of Pipes, Ducts And Plenums
16.3 Fire Dampers In Ducts

17.0 MEANS OF EGRESS

18.0 DETERMINING OCCUPANT LOADS

18.1 Calculating Occupant Load Based Upon Floor Area

19.0 DETERMINE THE NUMBER OF EXITS REQUIRED

19.1 Building 4 Or More Storeys In Building Height
19.2 Building 3 Storeys Or Less In Building Height
19.3 Minimum Distance Between Exits

20.0 MINIMUM WIDTH REQUIRED FOR EACH MEANS OF EGRESS AND EXIT

20.1 Rooms And Other Spaces Requiring Two Or More Egress Doorways

21.0 DETERMINE THE SUITABILITY OF DEAD END CORRIDORS

21.1 A Dead End Corridor(s) Not Permitted
21.2 Dead End Corridors Permitted

22.0 REQUIREMENTS FOR ACCESS TO EXITS

22.1 Access To Exits Through An Adjacent Assembly Occupancy
22.2 Guest Suite Egress Arrangements

23.0 OCCUPANT LOAD RESTRICTIONS RESULTING FROM LIMITED MEANS OF EGRESS WIDTHS AVAILABLE

23.1 Determine The Aggregate Widths Of The Means Of Egress Available
23.2 Determine The Maximum Occupant Load Based Upon The Most Restrictive Aggregate Means Of Egress Available

24.0 ADDITIONAL OCCUPANT LOAD RESTRICTIONS IN FLOOR AREAS AND ROOMS OF ASSEMBLY OCCUPANCY REQUIRING TWO OR MORE EGRESS DOORWAYS

25.0 REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAVEL DISTANCE TO AN EXIT

26.0 DETERMINE THE ADEQUACY OF EXIT STAIRWAY FIRE SEPARATIONS

26.1 Adequacy Of Closures In Exit Stairway Fire Separations
26.2 Exit Through A Lobby
26.3 Alternative Provisions Permitting An Exit To Lead Through A Lobby

27.0 EXTERIOR STAIRWAYS AND FIRE ESCAPES

27.1 General Requirements For Exterior Stairways And Fire Escapes
27.2 Protection Against Fire Exposure From The Building
27.3 Exterior Exit Stairways With Walkways Leading Across A Roof
27.4 Exterior Exit Stairways Or Fire Escapes Below Grade

28.0 DOORS IN ACCESS TO EXITS AND EXIT DOORS

28.1 Electromagnetic Locking Devices

29.0 EMERGENCY ACCESS TO FLOOR AREAS FROM EXIT STAIRS

29.1 Emergency Access To Floor Areas From Exit Stairs In Buildings 6 Storeys Or Less In Building Height
29.2 Emergency Access To Floor Areas From Exit Stairs In Buildings More Than 6 Storeys In Building Height

30.0 EXIT SIGNS

31.0 FLOOR NUMBER SIGNS

32.0 INTERIOR FINISH

32.1 Analysis Of Interior Finishes

33.0 LIGHTING

34.0 EMERGENCY LIGHTING

35.0 EMERGENCY POWER SUPPLY (GENERATOR)

36.0 UNIT EQUIPMENT FOR EMERGENCY LIGHTING

37.0 COMMERCIAL COOKING EQUIPMENT

38.0 REQUIREMENTS FOR INTERCONNECTED FLOOR SPACES

38.1 Interconnected Floor Space In A Building Of Noncombustible Construction [9.9.2.7.(1)]
38.2 Interconnected Floor Space In A Building Of 3 Storeys Or Less In Building Height And Not More Than 600 M² In Building Area [9.9.2.7.(2)]
38.3 Interconnected Floor Space Conforms To Building Code Standards [9.9.2.7.(3)] 97

39.0 SMOKE CONTROL MEASURES

40.0 SPRINKLER SYSTEMS

Appendix A – Audit Guideline Glossary

Appendix B – Determining The Building Area

Appendix C – Determine Type Of Building Construction

Appendix D – Containment And Control of Fire

Appendix E – Table 18.1

Appendix F – Retrofit 9.2, 9.3, 9.5 And 9.6 Application Sections

Appendix G – Regulation Compliance Schedule 125

Appendix H – Cross Reference Table To Section 9.9 Requirements 129

Appendix I – Flame-Spread Rating 131
 

January 2007
OFM Section: Fire Safety Standards at (416) 325-3100

The reproduction of this guideline for non-commercial purposes is permitted and encouraged. Permission to reproduce the guideline for commercial purposes must be obtained from the Office of the Fire Marshal, Ontario.


Abstract

This guideline is intended to assist hotel operators and owners, including their agents, to conduct an audit of a hotel establishment building that is regulated under Retrofit, Section 9.9 of the Fire Code. The purpose of conducting an audit is to identify and describe the existing building features in relation to Section 9.9 requirements. Completing an audit will help to determine the degree of compliance or non-compliance. The guideline is subdivided into sections. Each section is designed for use as a template suitable for documenting the degree of compliance or non compliance with applicable requirements based upon review and analysis of the subject matter. Many of the sections also contain explanatory information (commentary) relating to the requirement under consideration. The guideline is intended for guidance only and is not to be considered a statement of law in this area.

A separate audit guideline is available at www.ofm.gov.on.ca for use involving a one storey residential building that:
is a hotel establishment or is part of a hotel establishment, and
contains guest suites, other residential accommodations and/or building services, and
does not contain any other major occupancies, and
does not have a basement.

 

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Retrofit Section 9.9 Hotels, was introduced in May 2006 as an amendment to the Ontario Fire Code under Ontario Regulation 144/06 made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997. The regulation’s effective date is January 1, 2007. A number of the requirements become effective on that date. However there are different intervals of up to 5 years in some instances to comply with various provisions.

Other portions of Parts 1, 2, 6, 7 and 8 of the Fire Code also apply to the subject building where applicable. However, unless referred to specifically in the guideline, these provisions are not part of this building audit process. It is the responsibility of the owner to comply with the Fire Code. The Fire Code may be accessed and downloaded from the Ontario Government e-Laws web site at http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/.

Owners of buildings falling within the scope of the Section 9.9 Hotels are responsible for bringing their building(s) into compliance within the time frames as specified. These time frames are outlined in Article 9.1.3.1. A compliance schedule is provided in Appendix G – Regulation Compliance Schedule.

In some instances the work required may result in material alterations to the building structure or to its systems, and may affect temporarily the use of spaces in instances where installations or alterations must be made within these areas. Building construction, including additions, renovations and/or demolition are always subject to the Building Code Act and its regulations. For this reason, should construction be necessary, a building permit may be required prior to undertaking remedial measures to comply.

Article 9.9.1.2. requires the owner to prepare and retain a separate Building Audit for each building that is part of a
hotel establishment. The Building Audit must identify and describe the existing building features in relation to the requirements in Section 9.9. The Building Audit must be completed by January 1, 2008. Completing a Building Audit will help an owner identify those areas of the building audited that comply while also identifying those areas that may be deficient and require upgrading. Once the Building Audit is completed; it must be retained and be made available to an Assistant to the Fire Marshal upon request.

1.1 Instructions For Using The Audit Guideline

There are 40 sections in this Building Audit guideline. Each section reflects certain elements of the regulation’s requirements. It is intended that this guideline be followed sequentially. Using the audit guideline sequentially will ensure that the fire safety elements regulated under Section 9.9 will be appropriately assessed and the results where applicable will be suitably documented.

Following the guideline instructions as intended will help the user to determine those portions of the regulation that apply to the building so that appropriate analysis and documentation can be achieved. Every effort has been made to ensure that this guideline incorporates all the provisions of Retrofit, Section 9.9.

Some portions of the regulation and guideline will not apply to the hotel establishment building being audited. In these instances, by following the directions in the guideline you will be directed to proceed to the next section or specified portion in the guideline. This will allow you to disregard those portions of the guideline that are not applicable to the building being audited.

The Building Audit can be prepared using a computer and Microsoft Word in a manner similar to working on any Microsoft Word document. To complete the guideline on a computer, download the Microsoft Word file to your computer. Identify and save the file so that you can access it easily to work on. After working on the Building Audit save the changes you have made before closing the file. When you return to work on it, simply open the file and carry on from where you last left off.

To conduct the Building Audit, carefully review each statement and examine the corresponding feature(s) in the building. After completing the analysis, document the appropriate response by checking (Yes or No ) and where necessary describe or list additional information as directed in the text form field provided following the asterisk (*
███). When inserting text immediately after the asterisk (*) the form field will expand as necessary to accommodate all text. Inserted text will be printed in the colour red. Form fields located in the tables are not identified by an asterisk.

To check a box using your computer, simply double left click your mouse while the cursor is on the box. Then select ‘Checked’ under the default value, then OK. The box is checked.


 

The Building Audit can also be prepared using a printed copy of this document/file. When using this format, print the Building Audit guideline on single-sided, 3-hole punched paper. Place the printed pages in a 3 ring binder. Also obtain a notebook containing more than 50 pages. It would be preferable for the notebook to be bound in some manner and also be 3-hole punched for inserting into the 3-ring binder. When documenting your analysis if you encounter insufficient space after an asterisk (*) to insert the necessary details, the information can be written in the notebook. It is suggested that a separate page in the notebook be used for documenting each applicable section as you work your way through the audit process and guideline.

The guideline provides qualifying statements intended to determine if the section or subsection applies to the building being audited. By completing these qualifying statements, in some instances you will be directed to proceed to the next section or specified portion in the guideline. When you encounter this using the computer, a hyperlink is provided that you can click on with the left mouse button. Using this hyperlink will take you to the next section or area in the Building Audit. To return to your original place in the audit guideline, click on the forward key (Þ) or return key (Ü) located on the computer screen tool bar.

Once all applicable sections of the guideline have been completed, it is necessary to retain only those portions of the guideline that were applicable to the building in order to satisfy the provisions of Article 9.9.1.2. pertaining to the building audit.

1.2 Definitions Of Words And Phrases

To assist in becoming familiar with the words and phrases that have special meanings in the context of this Building Audit guideline and the Fire Code, defined words and phrases have been provided with a hyperlink to their corresponding definition. To use the hyperlink, scroll over the hyperlink and left click on the mouse button. To return to your original place in the guideline, use the return key feature on your tool bar. Please note the meaning of the word building. The word building in the guideline is synonymous with the building that is subject of the Audit. Due to prevalence of this word in the guideline, it is not provided with a hyperlink for the remainder of the document.

Persons conducting the Building Audit must be fluent with the meanings of the words and phrases that are assigned special definitions. For those using a paper version of the Building Audit guideline, the definition of each word or phrase that is underlined can be found in Appendix A – Audit Guideline Glossary.

1.3 Cross Reference To Section 9.9 Requirements

Many of the regulatory requirements have been editorially modified into simplified statements. These statements facilitate comparing the regulatory requirements with the applicable building feature(s) under consideration. Once the comparison and analysis is completed, the results can be documented.

For cross reference purposes, many of the simplified statements contain the numerical reference to the Fire Code in brackets [9.9.2.3.(1)], and similarly, where applicable, to the Building Code. For example, [3.2.3.20.(1)OBC].

To cross-reference between individual requirements in the regulation and the corresponding portion(s) of this guideline refer to Appendix H – Section 9.9 Cross Reference Requirements to Guideline.


2.0 BUILDING IDENTIFICATION AND INFORMATION

Hotel Municipal Address
 

███

Hotel Name and/or name of the building within a hotel establishment
 

███

Owner
 

███

Phone # ███
Owner’s Municipal Address
 

███

Owner’s Agent (Where applicable)
 

███

Phone # ███
Agent’s Municipal Address
 

███

Fire Department Name
 

███

Fire Department Municipal Address
 

███

Fire Department Contact
 

███

 
Phone # ███

Complete the table above to provide basic information about the hotel building that is the subject of the audit.


 

3.0 DETERMINE WHICH SECTIONS OF THE GUIDELINE APPLY TO THE BUILDING BEING AUDITED

The purpose of Section 3 is to determine which sections of this guideline will apply to the building that is going to be audited.

3.1 Building Regulated By Other Retrofit Sections

[9.9.1.1.(3)] The building containing a hotel, or a portion of the building, is regulated by Section 9.2, 9.3, 9.5 or 9.6 of the Fire Code on December 31, 2006 and the use of the building is unchanged since that date.  (To determine if the circumstances in your situation apply, refer to the Application Subsections found in Appendix F – Retrofit 9.2, 9.3, 9.5 and 9.6 Application Sections.

Agree:  Yes  No  

Where ‘No’ was the response to the statement above, proceed to Subsection 3.2.

NOTE:  For example, many bed and breakfast establishments have been/are regulated under the provisions of Section 9.3 or 9.5 of the Fire Code.  Where the use of the building has remained the same since December 31, 2006, the buildings continue to be regulated by these sections of Retrofit.

Where ‘Yes’ was the response to the statement above (Retrofit 9.2, 9.3, 9.5 or 9.6 applies to the building), the only portions of this audit guideline that will apply to the building or portion of the building include Section 7.0, Subsection 14.3 and Section 39.0, where applicable. Complete these portions of the Building Audit guideline. Refer to Appendix G – Regulation Compliance Schedule to determine the time lines for compliance where deficiencies have been noted.  Take steps to correct the deficiencies within the timeline allotted.

3.2 Building One Storey In Building Height With Limited Building Area

The building containing a hotel

Agree:  Yes  No  

Where the response is ‘No’ proceed to Subsection 3.3

Where ‘Yes’ was the response to the statement above, the only portion of this audit guideline that applies to this building is Section 7.0.  Complete this Section of the Building Audit guideline.  Refer to Appendix G – Regulation Compliance Schedule to determine the time line for compliance where deficiencies have been noted.  Take steps to correct the deficiencies within the timeline allotted.

3.3     All Other Buildings 

For all other buildings, use the following table to identify those sections in the audit guideline that apply to the building under consideration.  Review the qualifying factors in each segment of the table to determine if that particular section will apply to the building under consideration.  Column 1 in the table identifies the section number.  Column 2 is used to identify whether the section is applicable or not.  Column 2 is also to be used to keep track of those portions of the guideline that have been completed.  Simply check or click on the appropriate box as applicable.  Column 3 describes the qualifying factors that must be considered to determine applicability of the section. 

Once the information in the table has been completed, the table can be used for future reference as a Table of Contents and guide you through the audit process.  As each applicable section of the audit guideline is completed, check the ‘Completed ’ form field box in Column 2.

NOTE:  Where applicable, each section or subsection in the guideline also provides one or more qualifying statements to ensure that only applicable portions of the guideline are to be completed.  Where those portions of the guideline do not apply to the building being audited, you will be directed to proceed to the next appropriate section or subsection.

Col. 1 Column 2 Column 3
SECTION APPLICABLE& STATUS FACTORS TO DETERMINE APPLICABILITY OF SECTION TEMPLATE

1

All

Introduction and instructions for using the guideline

2

All

Building identification and information

3

All
Completed

Determine which sections of the guideline apply to the building being audited

4

All
Completed

Determine building height and building area
     

5

All
Completed

Determine type of building construction – ( combustible construction or noncombustible construction)

6

All
Completed

Fire separating the building from an adjoining building not containing a hotel
The building being audited does not contain a hotel.
Agree:
Yes No If ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

7

All
Completed

Smoke alarms in guest suites

8

Yes No Completed

Fire alarm and detection
The building is 3 storeys or less in building height, and each guest suite
  • is served by an exterior exit facility leading to ground level, and
  • is fire separated from adjacent rooms by walls that consist of reinforced concrete or masonry or have wall surfaces consisting of lath and plaster or gypsum board.

Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

9

Yes No Completed

Voice communication system
The height of the building measured vertically between the floor of the top storey and grade is ███m. The height of the building as determined above is less than 36 m.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

10

Yes No Completed

Access routes for fire fighting
The building is 3 storeys or less in building height and the building area is less than 600 m².
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

11

Yes No Completed

Standpipe system
The building is 3 storeys or less in building height:
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

12

Yes No Completed

Elevators for firefighters’ use
The height of the building measured vertically between the floor of the top storey and grade is ███. The height of the building as determined above is less than 18 m.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

13

Yes No Completed

Identify and assess the quality of structural floor assemblies and supporting assemblies
The building is only one storey in building height and does not contain a basement.
Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

14

All as applicable Completed

Identify and assess the quality of required fire separations within floor areas

15

All
Completed

Protection of openings in required fire separations (closures)

16

Yes No Completed

Pipes, ducts and plenums serving heating and air handling systems
The building contains
  • a hot water or steam radiant heating system utilizing piping
  • or a heating, ventilating or air conditioning system utilizing ducts, plenums or piping to move air.

Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ this section is not applicable.

17

All as applicable Completed

Means of egress

18

Yes No Completed

Determining occupant loads
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

19

All as applicable Completed

Determine the number of exits required

20

All as applicable Completed

Rooms and other spaces requiring two or more egress doorways

21

Yes No Completed

Determine the suitability of dead end corridors
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

22

Yes No Completed

Requirements for access to exits
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

23

Yes No Completed

Occupant load restrictions resulting from limited means of egress widths available
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

24

Yes No Completed

Additional occupant load restrictions in floor areas and rooms of assembly occupancy requiring two or more means of egress doorways
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

25

Yes No Completed

Requirements for travel distance to an exit
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

26

Yes No Completed

Determine the adequacy of exit stairway fire separations
The building is only one storey in building height and does not have a basement.
Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

27

Yes No Completed

Exterior stairways and fire escapes
The building is only one storey in building height and does not have a basement.
Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

The building has an exterior
  • exit stairway(s) Agree: Yes No
  • fire escape(s) Agree: Yes No
  • passageway(s) Agree: Yes No

Where ‘No’ applies in all instances above this section does not apply.

28

All as applicable Completed

Doors in an access to exit and exit doors

29

Yes No Completed

Emergency access to floor areas from exit stairs
The building is only one storey in building height.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

30

All
Completed

Exit signs

31

Yes No Completed

Floor number signs
The building is only one storey in building height and does not contain a basement.
Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

32

Yes No Completed
 

Interior finishes
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

33

Yes No Completed
 

Lighting
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

34

Yes No Completed
 

Emergency Lighting
The building is 3 storeys or less in building height, and each guest suite
  • is served by an exterior exit facility leading to ground level
  • is fire separated from adjacent rooms by walls that consist of reinforced concrete or masonry or have wall surfaces consisting of lath and plaster or gypsum board.

Agree: Yes No
The building contains a room(s) of an assembly occupancy having an occupant load of more than 60 people.
Agree: Yes No
Where ‘No’ is the response to both statements above this section does not apply.

35

Yes No Completed
 

Emergency power supply (Generator)
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

36

Yes No Completed
 

Unit equipment for emergency lighting
The building is

Agree: Yes No . Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

37

Yes No Completed
 

Commercial cooking equipment
Commercial cooking equipment such as that used in a restaurant(s) or used for other commercial food preparation purposes (banquet facility, etc.) is present in the building.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ this section does not apply.

38

Yes No Completed

Requirements for interconnected floor spaces
This building contains an interconnected floor space as defined in Section 39.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ this section does not apply.

39

Yes No Completed

Smoke control measures
The height of the building measured vertically between the floor of the top storey and grade is ███. The height of the building as determined above is less than 18 m.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply.

40

As applicable Completed

Sprinkler system requirements

 

4.0 DETERMINE THE BUILDING HEIGHT AND BUILDING AREA

Many of the requirements in Retrofit are determined by the building size and the nature of its construction. The requirements are based upon building height and building area and whether the building is of combustible construction or noncombustible construction.

4.1 Determine The Building Height

This subsection involves determining the building height of the building being audited. It is important to note that the words, storey, first storey and grade all have assigned meanings and are used in their defined sense in the context of the definition.

Examine the building from the outside and inside. Identify the first storey of the building. Next, determine the building height in storeys. Storeys below grade are not included when determining building height.

The building is *███   storeys in building height.

4.2 Determine The Building Area

In this subsection it will be necessary to determine the building area of the building being audited.

For the purpose of determining the building area, Retrofit Section 9.9 permits a building containing a hotel to be separated from another connected building not containing a hotel, provided the buildings are separated from each other by

Where the building is separated from another connected building using one of these methods then the building area includes the building containing the hotel only.

4.3 Calculating Building Area

The building is

For guidance on how to determine building area proceed to Appendix B – Determining The Building Area.

CONCLUSION: The building area of the building is *███ m².


5.0 DETERMINE THE TYPE OF BUILDING CONSTRUCTION

Refer to Appendix C – Determine Type of Building Construction for guidance in determining whether the building is considered to be of combustible construction, noncombustible construction or of heavy timber construction.

NOTE: A building of heavy timber construction is also considered to be a building of combustible construction.

The building is of:

COMPILED CONCLUSIONS OF SECTIONS 4 AND 5.

The building is *███   storeys in building height.

The building is *███   m² in building area.

The building is of heavy timber construction and combustible construction.
Agree: Yes No

The building is of combustible construction.
Agree: Yes No

The building is of noncombustible construction.
Agree: Yes No


6.0 FIRE SEPARATING THE BUILDING FROM AN ADJOINING BUILDING NOT CONTAINING A HOTEL

In this section it is necessary to determine the adequacy of features that fire separate a building containing a hotel from an adjoining building that does not contain a hotel.

The building being audited does not contain a hotel. Agree: Yes No If ‘Yes’ this section does not apply, therefore proceed to Section 7.

The subject building is not attached, or connected by a covered walkway or underground walkway, to another building. Agree: Yes No If ‘Yes’ this section does not apply, therefore proceed to Section 7.

The building containing the hotel is connected to a building that does not contain a hotel by (NOTE: More than one of the following points may apply.)

6.1 Attached Buildings Fire Separated By A Noncombustible Fire Separation Having A 2-Hr Fire Resistance Rating

[9.9.2.6.(1)] The building containing a hotel is required to be fire separated from an attached building that does not contain a hotel, by a fire separation of noncombustible construction having a 2-hr fire-resistance rating.

The existing wall assemblies (fire separation referred to above) consist of

Where the wall assembly does not correspond with one of the wall assemblies described above, proceed to Subsection 6.2.

All existing openings in the fire separation are protected with closures having 1.5-hr fire protection rating. The door and frame has a permanent label affixed to it indicating that the door has the required 1.5-hr fire protection rating.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ list the openings. *███

6.2 Attached Buildings Fire Separated By A Combustible Fire Separation Having A 2 Hr Fire Resistance Rating

[9.9.2.6. (2)] As an alternative, the building containing a hotel is required to be fire separated from an attached building that does not contain a hotel, by a fire separation having a 2-hr fire resistance rating constructed as a fire separation.

In this instance the existing fire separation has been purposefully designed and constructed as a fire separation having a 2-hr fire resistance rating.
Agree:
Yes No Provide relevant information to support this conclusion. (i.e. Building permit information, original construction details, assessment by a structural engineer, etc.) *███

All existing openings in the fire separation are protected with closures having 1.5-hr fire-protection rating. The door and frame has a permanent label affixed to it indicating that the door has the required 1.5-hr fire-protection rating.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ list the openings. *███

6.3 Buildings Connected By An Above Ground Walkway

For the purpose of the following statement a walkway means a covered or roofed pedestrian thoroughfare used to connect 2 or more buildings.

The building containing a hotel is connected to another building not containing a hotel by an aboveground walkway.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ proceed to Section 6.4. Where ‘Yes’ continue.

[9.9.2.6.(3)] The building containing a hotel is connected to an adjacent building not containing a hotel by an above ground walkway that is fire separated from each building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 minutes. [3.2.3.20.(1)OBC]
Agree: Yes No

Both buildings connected to the walkway are each of combustible construction.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ proceed to Section 6.4. Where ‘No’ continue.

[3.2.3.20.(3)OBC] One or both buildings are constructed of noncombustible construction and the walkway is of noncombustible construction.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ proceed to Section 6.4. Where ‘No’ continue.

[3.2.3.20.(1)OBC] The walkway connected to the buildings is of heavy timber construction
(Agree: Yes No ) and:

6.4 Buildings Connected By An Underground Walkway

For the purpose of the following statement a walkway means a covered or roofed pedestrian thoroughfare used to connect 2 or more buildings.

The building containing a hotel is connected to another building not containing a hotel by an underground walkway.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ proceed to Section 7. Where ‘Yes’ continue.

[9.9.2.6.(3)] The building containing a hotel is subdivided from a directly connected adjacent building that does not contain a hotel by an underground walkway that complies with the Building Code.

and

and

(and if applicable, i.e. walkway exceeds 100 m in length)

Applicable: Yes No Agree: Yes No (NOTE: Where the travel distance provisions of the second point above apply, it will be necessary to review and examine the provisions of OBC Sentence 3.4.2.5. prior to determining if you agree or not agree.)


7.0 SMOKE ALARMS IN GUEST SUITES

Smoke alarms are required to be installed in each guest suite in every hotel.

The smoke alarm requirements include references to three different ULC standards. The following table contains a synopsis of the regulatory requirements outlined in Section 9.9 and those requirements contained in the referenced standards. For accurate reference, refer to the applicable standards. For correct placement of smoke alarm, refer to the illustration below.

In the table, Column 1 describes the requirements. Column 2 is used to document compliance or non-compliance. Column 3 is used to describe details of non-compliance when applicable.

 

Column 1

Col. 2

Column 3

[9.9.4.13.] Requirements for smoke alarms: Complies
(Agree)
Describe nature of non-compliance
  Yes No

███

Installed in each guest suite

███

Each is ULC labelled.

███

Battery operated, or
Have permanent connections to an electrical circuit and have no disconnect switches between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarm

███

Installed on each floor in multi-level guest suites, and The smoke alarms are interconnected so that the actuation of one smoke alarm will cause all smoke alarms within the guest suite to sound (if applicable).

███

Not installed near an air outlet from a heating or air conditioning system.

███

Permanently installed on the ceiling not less than 100 mm from any wall measured to the nearest edge of the smoke alarm, or on the wall with the top edge of the smoke alarm 100 to 300 mm from the ceiling.

███

Located at least 1 m or more from the centre of a laundry room or bathroom entrance door to avoid exposure to water vapour.

███

Located on the high side of the room where the ceiling slope is greater than 1 in 8.

███

Installed on the bottom of the joists or beams where the ceiling consists of exposed joists or beams.

███

Picture of where smoke alarms are to be installed


 

8.0 FIRE ALARM AND DETECTION

This section addresses requirements for early fire warning and detection, which include the following provisions:

The building is 4 storeys or more in building height.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ a fire alarm system is required, therefore proceed to Section 8.3.

8.1 Exemption For Small Buildings

[9.9.4.1.(1)] The building is:

Agree: Yes No
Where ‘Yes’ this section does not apply therefore proceed to Section 10. Where ‘No’ continue.

8.2 Interconnected Smoke Alarms Permitted In Lieu Of A Fire Alarm System

The building is not more than 3 storeys in building height and has sleeping accommodation for 10 or less people.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ proceed to Section 8.3. Where ‘Yes’ continue. Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ proceed to Section 10.
Where ‘No’ describe the degree of non-compliance: *███Once completed, proceed to Section 10.

8.3 Buildings Requiring A Fire Alarm System

[9.9.4.1.(1)] Excluding those buildings identified in Subsection 8.1 and Subsection 8.2, a fire alarm system is required in all other buildings. The building is required to be provided with a fire alarm system.
Agree: Yes No

The building is equipped with an existing fire alarm system.
Agree: Yes No Where ‘Yes’ the existing fire alarm system must conform to the provisions outlined in Subsections 8.4 through 8.15.

Where ‘No’ the building is required to be provided with a fire alarm system that conforms with the provisions outlined in Subsection 8.4 through 8.15. Due to the lack of an existing system you may proceed directly to Section 9.

8.4 Automatic Detection

Automatic fire detection is required to be provided in certain rooms and areas. The automatic detection requirements can be satisfied by having fire detectors installed in a manner outlined in Option #1 or by having the areas sprinklered in a manner consistent with Option #2.

Option #1

NOTE: Detectors are not required in corridors, washrooms and closets in guest suites, saunas, refrigerated areas and swimming pools. Guest suites can also be excluded from areas needing detectors, but only where smoke detectors are instead installed in the corridor serving the guest suites.

Agree: Yes No Not applicable Where ‘No’ list areas of the building lacking fire detectors. *███

Option #2

[9.9.4.2.(4) and OBC 3.2.4.16.(1) to (5)] Fire detectors are not required in rooms and areas provided these areas are sprinklered and the sprinkler system activates the fire alarm system upon sprinkler system activation. Agree: Yes No

The sprinkler system is electrically supervised to indicate a trouble signal on the building fire alarm system annunciator for each of the following (where applicable):

Agree: Yes No Where ‘No’ list those areas that apply and do not conform. *███
NOTE: An annunciator with zoning is not required until the building is 4 or more storeys in building height or has a minimum total area of 4000 m². See Section 8.7 for more details. Existing zoning arrangements can also be assessed for approval by the Chief Fire Official.

8.5 Manual Pull Stations

[9.9.4.3.] Requirements for manual pull stations Complies Describe location(s) of non-compliance
Yes No
Installed at the main reception area

███

Installed near every exit [see NOTE (1)]

███

Red in colour