Fire Code Commission Decision Summary
DECISION NO.:91A006-076
DATE:December 5, 1991
SUBJECT MATTER:
Installation of an ULC listed interconnected smoke alarm system such that:
a) devices installed on or near ceiling in the hallway of each floor area and in the basement
b) activation of a smoke alarm will sound a similar signal in each of the interconnected devices
c) devices are audible within the suites
d) system to be on a separate circuit with no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarms
e) manual pull station located at each exterior exit door activates the interconnected smoke alarm system
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PREMISES:
The building has three storeys plus a basement. The building exterior is brick up to the third floor and wood siding from the third floor up to the roof. The floor and roof assemblies and most of the interior partitions are of wood construction. There are seven one-bedroom apartments and one bachelor apartment location on the first, second and third floor. The basement is unoccupied. Access to two apartments on the main floor and access to the second and third floor is provided by an entrance door on the south side of the building. This also serves as the primary means of egress for these areas. A stairway leading from the ground floor corridor is open to the second floor corridor which provides the only means for egress for the apartments on the second floor. The third floor corridor has access to the central stairway and a fire escape that leads down to grade level. A smoke alarm was observed at the top of the central stair on the third floor and fire extinguishers were observed in all public corridors, one per floor.
REASON FOR APPEAL:
Finds the order to be seriously flawed.
APPELLANT'S POSITION:
Appellant is appealing on the grounds that they feel the building is not accurately described in the order; that the order does not prove any of the occupants are in any immediate danger; that the existing early warning systems are adequate for the building and that prior inspections have never brought any orders against them.
RESPONDENT'S POSITION:
The provision of an automatic detection and early warning system to warn occupants of a fire emergency is a necessary life safety principle, particularly where the occupants may be asleep and where exit facilities are shared by multiple dwelling units.
COMMISSION RULING:
The Commission upheld the order.
REASONS:
The Commission is of the opinion that this work is required to enhance fire safety for the occupants and the property.
