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Sec 1, Sec 2, Sec 3, Sec 4, Sec 5, Sec 6, Sec 7&8, Sec 9, Admin section

PART 2
OBJECTIVES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 2.1  APPLICATION

Subsection 2.1.1.  Application

2.1.1.1.  (1)  The objectives set out in Table 2.2.1.1. apply only to the extent that they relate to an alternative solution as provided in Article 1.2.2.1.

(2)  The objectives described in this Part apply only as they relate to fire safety.

SECTION 2.2  OBJECTIVES

Subsection 2.2.1.  Objectives

2.2.1.1.  The objectives of this Code are those listed in Table 2.2.1.1.

TABLE 2.2.1.1.

Objectives
Forming Part of Article 2.2.1.1.

O. Reg. 213/07, Division A, Part 2.

PART 3
FUNCTIONAL STATEMENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 3.1  APPLICATION

Subsection 3.1.1.  Application

3.1.1.1.  The functional statements set out in Table 3.2.1.1. apply only to the extent that they relate to an alternative solution as provided in Article 1.2.1.1.

SECTION 3.2  FUNCTIONAL STATEMENTS

Subsection 3.2.1.  Functional Statements

3.2.1.1.  The functional statements of this Code are those set out in Table 3.2.1.1.

TABLE 3.2.1.1.

Functional Statements
Forming Part of Article 3.2.1.1.

O. Reg. 213/07, Division A, Part 3.

DIVISION B
ACCEPTABLE SOLUTIONS

PART 1
GENERAL

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1.1  GENERAL

Subsection 1.1.1.  General

Notification

1.1.1.1.  Where tests, repairs or alterations are made to fire protection installations, including sprinkler and standpipe systems, a procedure of notification shall be established, and the procedure shall include notifying the fire department and the building occupants where necessary for safety in the event of a fire emergency.

Check, inspect and test

1.1.1.2.  (1)  The checking, inspection and testing of fire safety devices shall be conducted in accordance with this Code.

(2)  Where specific references to checking, inspection and testing of fire safety devices are not made in this Code, such devices shall be maintained to ensure they operate as per their design requirements.

(3)  Any appliance, device or component of a device that does not operate or appear to operate as intended when checked, inspected or tested as required by this Code shall be repaired or replaced if the failure or malfunctioning of the appliance, device or component would adversely affect fire or life safety.

Subsection 1.1.2.  Records of Tests and Inspections

Records

1.1.2.1.  (1)  If this Code requires tests and corrective measures or operational procedures to be carried out, records shall be made and the original or a copy shall be retained at the building premises for examination by the Chief Fire Official.

(2)  Records of tests and corrective measures or operational procedures shall be retained so that at least the current and the immediately preceding reports are available.

(3)  Despite Sentence (2), records shall be retained for a period of at least two years after being prepared.

(4)  In addition to the requirements of Sentences (1), (2) and (3), in facilities regulated by or under the Developmental Services Act, written records shall be kept of inspections for two years after they are made, and the records shall be available upon request to the Chief Fire Official.

Verification report

1.1.2.2.  (1)  The initial verification or test reports for fire protection systems installed after November 21, 2007 shall be retained throughout the life of the systems.

(2)  The requirements of Sentence (1) apply to systems installed in accordance with this Code or the Building Code.

SECTION 1.2  REFERENCED DOCUMENTS AND ORGANIZATIONS

Subsection 1.2.1.  Referenced Documents

Applicable editions

1.2.1.1.  (1)  A reference in this Code to a document set out in Table 1.2.1.A. is to the edition designated in the table.

(2)  The edition specified in Sentence (1) does not apply to,

(a) commercial cooking equipment in Sentence 2.6.1.12.(1),

(b) solid-fuel-burning appliances and equipment in Article 2.6.2.1.,

(c) outdoor incinerators in Sentence 2.6.3.1.(2),

(d) blower and exhaust systems in Article 3.2.1.2.,

(e) sprinkler systems in Sentences 3.3.3.6.(1), 4.12.8.4.(2) and 4.12.8.5.(3), Articles 5.4.2.3. and 5.4.5.1., Sentence 5.12.8.2.(1) and Article 5.13.6.1.,

(f) explosion venting in Subclause 5.6.2.4.(1)(d)(ii) and Sentence 5.18.3.3.(2),

(g) fire protection in Sentence 5.12.8.2.(2), and

(h) sprinkler systems and special fire suppression systems in Sentences 4.2.7.7.(1). 4.8.4.3.(4) and 4.9.3.2.(2) and (3)

for installations or construction that meet, on November 20, 2007, the requirements of Ontario Regulation 388/97 (Fire Code), as it read on that day.

Effective date

1.2.1.2.  A reference in this Code to a document set out in Table 1.2.1.A. includes all amendments up to and including June 1, 2007.

Previous editions

1.2.1.3.  Despite Articles 1.2.1.1. and 1.2.1.2., the Chief Fire Official may permit compliance with an edition of a document previous to that referred to in this Code if the Chief Fire Official is satisfied that compliance with the edition referred to in this Code is impractical.

TABLE 1.2.1.A.

Forming Part of Article 1.2.1.1.

Subsection 1.2.2.  Organizations

Abbreviations of proper names

1.2.2.1.  The abbreviations in this Code for the names of organizations shall have the meanings assigned to them as follows:

O. Reg. 213/07, Division B, Part 1.

PART 2
FIRE SAFETY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 2.1  GENERAL

Subsection 2.1.1.  Scope and Application

Scope

2.1.1.1.  This Part provides measures for the safety of persons, the elimination or control of fire hazards in and around buildings, the maintenance of certain life safety systems in buildings, the establishing of a fire safety plan in those buildings where required and the installation of smoke alarms in dwelling units.

Application

2.1.1.2.  Except as provided in Article 2.1.1.3., this Part applies to buildings, tents, air-supported structures and outdoor public amusement areas.

2.1.1.3.  (1)  This Part does not apply to individual dwelling units.

(2)  Despite Sentence (1), Section 2.2 (Fire Separations), Subsection 2.4.7. (Vacant Buildings), Section 2.6 (Service Equipment), Section 2.11 (Insulation and Re-Insulation), Section 2.13 (Installation of Smoke Alarms) and Section 2.15 (Portable Oxygen Systems) apply to individual dwelling units.

(3)  Despite Sentence (1), this Part applies to facilities regulated by or under the Developmental Services Act.

Subsection 2.1.2.  Classification of Buildings or Parts of Buildings by Major Occupancy

Classification of buildings or parts thereof

2.1.2.1.  For the purpose of applying this Code, a building or part thereof shall be classified according to its major occupancy by the Chief Fire Official in conformance with the Building Code.

Hazardous activities

2.1.2.2.  Activities that create a hazard and that are not allowed for in the original design shall not be carried out in a building unless approved provisions are made to control the hazard.

Prohibited combinations of occupancies

2.1.2.3.  No major occupancy consisting of high hazard industrial occupancy shall be contained within a building with any occupancy classified as assembly occupancy, care or detention occupancy or residential occupancy.

SECTION 2.2  FIRE SEPARATIONS

Subsection 2.2.1.  Major Occupancies

Damaged fire separations

2.2.1.1.  Where fire separations between major occupancies are damaged in a manner so as to affect the integrity of their fire-resistance rating, such damaged fire separations shall be repaired so that the integrity of the fire separations is maintained.

Subsection 2.2.2.  Rooms and Spaces

Damaged fire separations

2.2.2.1.  Where fire separations between rooms, corridors, shafts and other spaces are damaged so as to affect the integrity of their fire-resistance rating, the damaged fire separations shall be repaired so that the integrity of the fire separations is maintained.

Subsection 2.2.3.  Closures

Damaged closures

2.2.3.1.  Where closures are damaged so as to affect the integrity of their fire-protection rating, the damaged closures shall be repaired so that the integrity of the closures is maintained.

Maintenance of closures

2.2.3.2.  (1)  Closures in fire separations shall be maintained to ensure that they are operable at all times by

(a) keeping fusible links and heat or smoke-actuated devices undamaged and free of paint and dirt,

(b) keeping guides, bearings and stay rolls clean and lubricated,

(c) making necessary adjustments and repairs to door hardware and accessories to ensure proper closing and latching, and

(d) repairing or replacing inoperative parts of hold-open devices and automatic releasing devices.

Operation of closures

2.2.3.3.  Closures in fire separations shall not be obstructed, blocked, wedged open, or altered in any way that would prevent the intended operation of the closure.

Inspection of doors in fire separations

2.2.3.4.  Doors in fire separations shall be inspected monthly.

2.2.3.5.  (1)  Doors in fire separations in occupied buildings shall be checked as frequently as necessary to ensure that they remain closed.

(2)  Sentence (1) does not apply to

(a) doors designed to close automatically in the event of a fire, or

(b) doors for which an approved fire safety plan contains provisions for closing in the event of a fire.

2.2.3.6.  RESERVED

Inspection of fire dampers and fire-stop flaps

2.2.3.7.  Fire dampers and fire-stop flaps shall be inspected annually, or on an approved time schedule.

2.2.3.8.  Door openings and the surrounding areas shall be kept clear of everything that would be likely to obstruct or interfere with the free operation of the door.

SECTION 2.3  INTERIOR FINISHING, FURNISHING AND DECORATIVE MATERIALS

Subsection 2.3.1.  General

2.3.1.1.  (1)  Where a building is refurbished or redecorated, interior finish materials used shall be in conformance with the Building Code.

(2)  Despite Sentence (1), other interior finish materials may be approved.

Moveable partitions and screens

2.3.1.2.  Moveable partitions or screens, including acoustical screens, shall have a flame-spread rating equal to that required for the interior finish of the area in which they are located as determined in the Building Code.

Subsection 2.3.2.  Textile Flammability

Flame resistance of textiles

2.3.2.1.  (1)  Drapes, curtains, netting, and other similar or decorative materials, including textiles and films used in buildings, shall meet the requirements of CAN/ULC-S109, "Flame Tests of Flame-Resistant Fabrics and Films", when these materials are used in any

(a) care and treatment occupancy and detention occupancy,

(b) lobby or exit,

(c) access to exit in assembly occupancies, and assembly occupancies with an occupant load of more than 100 persons, or

(d) open floor area in a business and personal services occupancy, mercantile occupancy or industrial occupancy exceeding 1500 m², except when the floor area is divided into fire compartments not exceeding 1500 m² in area and separated from the remainder of the floor area by a fire separation having a 1 h fire-resistance rating.

(2)  Existing drapes, curtains, netting, and other similar or decorative materials, including textiles and films used in buildings which meet the requirements for a high degree of flame resistance as described in NOTE 4 of Test Method 27.1 of CAN2-4.2, "Textile Test Methods" are deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).

(3)  For the purposes of Sentence (2),

"existing" means in place on November 21, 2007.

Flameproofing treatments

2.3.2.2.  Flame retardant treatments shall be renewed as often as required to ensure that the material will pass the match flame test in NFPA 705, "Recommended Practice for a Field Flame Test for Textiles and Films".

SECTION 2.4  FIRE HAZARDS

Subsection 2.4.1.  Combustible Materials

Accumulation of combustible materials

2.4.1.1.  (1)  Combustible waste materials in and around buildings shall not be permitted to accumulate in quantities or locations that will constitute a fire hazard.

(2)  Combustible materials, other than those for which the location, room or space is designed, shall not be permitted to accumulate in any part of an elevator shaft, ventilation shaft, means of egress, service room or service space.

(3)  Horizontal concealed spaces, such as crawl spaces and ceiling spaces, shall not be used for the storage of combustible materials.

(4)  Combustible materials shall not be stored on a roof or adjacent to any building so as to create a fire hazard to the building or its occupants.

(5)  Abandoned optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables, with combustible insulation, jackets, or sheaths, and nonmetallic raceways shall be removed from a plenum unless

(a) they are permanently closed by the structure or finish of the building,

(b) their removal would disturb the structure or finish of the building, or

(c) their removal could affect the performance of cables in use.

(6)  Outdoor storage receptacles, such as dumpsters, used for combustible materials shall be located so that they do not create a fire hazard to buildings.

Furniture in corridors serving guest suites

2.4.1.2.  Despite Sentence 2.4.1.1.(2), corridors serving as access to exits for guest suites may contain solid wood or other approved furniture, provided the furniture does not create an obstruction to the egress route.

Waste receptacles

2.4.1.3.  (1)  Materials subject to spontaneous ignition, such as greasy or oily rags, shall be deposited in a receptacle conforming to Sentence (3) or be removed from the premises.

(2)  Ashes shall be stored in receptacles that conform to Sentence (3) and combustible materials shall not be stored with ashes in the same receptacle.

(3)  A receptacle required in Sentences (1) and (2) shall

(a) be constructed of noncombustible materials,

(b) have a close-fitting, self-closing metal cover,

(c) if the flooring material upon which it is placed is combustible, have a flanged bottom or legs not less than 50 mm high, and

(d) not be placed closer than 1 m to combustible materials, except as permitted in Clause (c).

Waste containers in hotels

2.4.1.4.  (1)  Waste containers in public washrooms and in other public areas in a hotel establishment shall be

(a) approved, or

(b) constructed of noncombustible material and have self-closing covers.

Lint traps for laundry equipment

2.4.1.5.  Lint traps in laundry equipment shall be cleaned to prevent the accumulation of lint that creates an undue fire hazard.

Flammable or combustible liquid spills

2.4.1.6.  Flammable liquid or combustible liquid spills in a building shall be removed immediately with an absorbent material that will not increase the hazard and shall be disposed of in a safe manner.

Subsection 2.4.2.  RESERVED

Subsection 2.4.3.  Smoking

Smoking prohibited

2.4.3.1.  (1)  Where conditions are such as to make smoking a fire or explosion hazard, smoking shall be permitted only in specifically approved smoking areas.

(2)  In facilities regulated by or under the Developmental Services Act, suitable noncombustible ashtrays shall be provided where smoking is permitted.

Signs

2.4.3.2.  The areas where smoking is not permitted shall be identified by signs having black lettering 50 mm high with a 12.5 mm stroke on a yellow background, except that symbols of 150 mm by 150 mm may be used in lieu of lettering, or covered by instructions established under a fire safety plan and available to all persons.

Subsection 2.4.4.  Open Flames

Open flames prohibited

2.4.4.1.  (1)  Open flames shall not be permitted in buildings used for public assemblies in such quantities and in such a manner as to create a fire hazard unless approved.

(2)  Open flames shall not be permitted in dining areas in care and treatment occupancies and care occupancies.

(3)  Despite Sentence (1), decorative and lighting devices with open flames shall not be used unless they are

(a) securely supported in noncombustible holders and located and protected so that combustible materials will not come into contact with or be ignited by the flame, or

(b) approved.

2.4.4.2.  (1)  Flaming meals or drinks shall not be served in care and treatment occupancies and care occupancies.

(2)  In assembly occupancies, flaming meals or drinks shall be ignited only at the location of serving.

(3)  In assembly occupancies, the refuelling of equipment used to flame meals or drinks, or to warm food, shall be carried out

(a) outside the serving area, and

(b) away from ignition sources.

(4)  A portable extinguisher with a minimum rating of 5B:C shall be located on the serving cart or table at locations referred to in Sentences (2) and (3).

Devices having open flames

2.4.4.3.  Devices having open flames shall be securely supported in noncombustible holders and located or protected so as to prevent accidental contact of the flame with combustible materials.

Subsection 2.4.5.  Use of Hazardous Materials

2.4.5.1.  Flammable liquids shall not be used for cleaning purposes except where the cleaning is an essential part of a process.

2.4.5.2.  Flammable gases shall not be used to inflate balloons.

Subsection 2.4.6.  Electrical Hazards

Electrical wiring

2.4.6.1.  Temporary electrical wiring shall not be used where it presents a fire hazard.

Subsection 2.4.7.  Vacant Buildings

2.4.7.1.  Vacant buildings shall be secured against unauthorized entry.

SECTION 2.5  FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS TO BUILDINGS

Subsection 2.5.1.  General

Application

2.5.1.1.  (1)  This Section applies to fire access routes

(a) required to be constructed under the Building Code,

(b) required by municipal by-law, or

(c) required by this Code.

Maintaining access free of obstructions

2.5.1.2.  (1)  Fire access routes and access panels or windows provided to facilitate access for fire fighting operations shall not be obstructed by vehicles, gates, fences, building materials, vegetation, signs or any other form of obstruction.

(2)  Fire department sprinkler and standpipe connections shall be clearly identified and maintained free of obstructions for use at all times.

Maintenance

2.5.1.3.  Fire access routes shall be maintained so as to be immediately ready for use at all times by fire department vehicles.

Signs

2.5.1.4.  Approved signs shall be displayed to indicate fire access routes.

SECTION 2.6  SERVICE EQUIPMENT

Subsection 2.6.1.  Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning

Defective equipment

2.6.1.1.  Defective appliances in a building shall be removed, repaired or replaced when the defective appliances create a hazardous condition.

Solid fuel bins

2.6.1.2.  Bins containing solid fuel shall be located at least 1.2 m from any appliance.

Hoods, filters and ducts

2.6.1.3.  Hoods, ducts and filters subject to accumulations of combustible deposits shall be checked at intervals not greater than seven days, and shall be cleaned if the accumulation of such deposits creates a fire hazard.

Chimneys, flues and flue pipes

2.6.1.4.  (1)  Every chimney, flue and flue pipe shall be inspected to identify any dangerous condition

(a) at intervals not greater than 12 months,

(b) at the time of addition of any appliance, and

(c) after any chimney fire.

(2)  A chimney, flue, or flue pipe shall be replaced or repaired to eliminate

(a) any structural deficiency or decay, and

(b) all abandoned or unused openings which are not effectively sealed in a manner that would prevent the passage of fire or smoke.

(3)  Chimneys, flues and flue pipes that constitute a fire hazard shall be repaired or replaced in accordance with the Building Code.

2.6.1.5.  Chimneys, flues and flue pipes shall be cleaned as often as necessary to keep them free from accumulations of combustible deposits.

2.6.1.6.  RESERVED

Operation of systems

2.6.1.7.  Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, including appliances, chimneys and flue pipes, shall be operated and maintained so as not to create a hazardous condition.

Disconnect switches

2.6.1.8.  Except for self-contained systems within guest suites and dwelling units, disconnect switches for mechanical air-conditioning and ventilating systems shall be operated at intervals not greater than 12 months to establish that the system can be shut down in an emergency.

Ventilation shafts

2.6.1.9.  Ventilation shafts shall be used only for ventilating purposes.

Precautions during repairs or renovations

2.6.1.10.  (1)  Work on ducts involving the use of heat-producing devices for cutting, welding or soldering shall not be undertaken before

(a) the system has been shut down,

(b) the duct has been cleaned of any accumulations of combustible deposits, and

(c) any combustible lining and covering material that could be ignited by such work has been removed.

2.6.1.11.  Precautions shall be taken, where necessary, to ensure that there is no damage to fuel supply piping or equipment that would result in fuel leakage or a fire hazard during renovations or excavations.

Commercial cooking equipment

2.6.1.12.  (1)  Commercial cooking equipment shall be provided with exhaust and fire protection systems in conformance with NFPA 96, "Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations".

(2)  Despite Sentence (1), existing exhaust or fire protection systems may be approved.

(3)  In a hotel establishment regulated by Section 9.9, commercial cooking equipment that complies with Article 9.9.2.19. is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).

2.6.1.13.  Commercial cooking equipment exhaust and fire protection systems shall be maintained in conformance with NFPA 96, "Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations".

2.6.1.14.  (1)  Instructions for manually operating the fire protection systems required under Article 2.6.1.12. shall be posted conspicuously in the kitchen.

(2)  The instructions required in Sentence (1) shall be included in the fire safety plan where such a plan is required.

Subsection 2.6.2  Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances

Solid-fuel-burning appliances

2.6.2.1.  The installation of solid-fuel-burning appliances and equipment shall be in accordance with CAN/CSA-B365, "Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment".

2.6.2.2.  Solid-fuel-burning appliances and equipment shall be maintained in accordance with CAN/CSA-B365, "Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment".

Subsection 2.6.3.  Incinerators

Design, construction, installation and alteration

2.6.3.1.  (1)  The design, construction, installation and alteration of indoor incinerators shall conform to the requirements of the Building Code.

(2)  The design, construction, installation, alteration and maintenance of outdoor incinerators shall conform to NFPA 82, "Standard on Incinerators and Waste and Linen Handling Systems and Equipment", except that the flue venting an incinerator shall not serve as the chute conveying waste material to the incinerator.

Maintenance

2.6.3.2.  All indoor and outdoor incinerators shall be maintained in accordance with NFPA 82, "Standard on Incinerators and Waste and Linen Handling Systems and Equipment".

Spark arresters

2.6.3.3.  (1)  Spark arresters installed in conformance with Article 2.6.3.1. shall be inspected and cleaned at intervals not greater than 12 months or more frequently where accumulations of debris will adversely affect operations.

(2)  Burnt-out spark arresters shall be repaired or replaced.

Open-air burning

2.6.3.4.  (1)  Open-air burning shall not be permitted unless approved, or unless such burning consists of a small, confined fire, supervised at all times, and used to cook food on a grill or a barbecue.

(2)  Sentence (1) does not apply to an appliance that is in conformance with the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000, is for outdoor use and is installed in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.

Subsection 2.6.4.  Electrical Equipment Vaults

2.6.4.1.  Electrical equipment vaults shall not be used for storage purposes.

2.6.4.2.  Electrical equipment vaults shall be kept locked so that unauthorized persons will not have access to them.

SECTION 2.7  SAFETY TO LIFE

Subsection 2.7.1.  Means of Egress

Mercantile, business and personal services occupancies

2.7.1.1.  Individual work areas in business and personal services occupancies and mercantile occupancies shall be located adjacent to aisles described in Articles 2.7.1.2. and 2.7.1.3.

2.7.1.2.  Where two exits are required from floor areas in buildings of business and personal services occupancy and mercantile occupancy that are not subdivided into rooms or suites of rooms served by corridors giving access to exits, at least one aisle with access to the two exits and having a minimum clear width of 1100 mm shall be provided to serve the individual work areas where necessary.

2.7.1.3.  Subsidiary aisles with a minimum clear width of 900 mm may branch off for a distance not exceeding 7.5 m from the aisles described in Article 2.7.1.2.

Occupant load

2.7.1.4.  (1)  The number of persons occupying a room or floor space in an assembly occupancy shall not exceed the occupant load for the intended use as determined in Sentence (2).

(2)  The occupant load for any room or floor space shall be the lower of

(a) the occupant load as calculated in accordance with Sentences (3) to (7), or

(b) the occupant load for which means of egress are provided as determined by the Building Code.

(3)  The occupant load of a floor area or part of a floor area in an assembly occupancy shall be based on

(a) the number of fixed seats, or

(b) the number of persons

(i) for which the area is designed, or

(ii) determined from Table 2.7.1.A. for occupancies other than those described in Clause (a).

(4)  For the purposes of this Article, mezzanines, tiers and balconies shall be regarded as part of the floor area.

(5)  Where fixed bench-type seats without arms are provided, the occupant load shall be based on a seat width of 450 mm per person.

(6)  The occupant load of a room in which a dance floor is situated shall be based on that portion of the room that is not occupied by the dance floor except where the occupant load is determined using Subclause (3)(b)(i).

(7)  At no time shall the maximum occupant load determined in Sentences (2) to (6) exceed the occupant load calculated on the basis of

(a) 0.60 m² of floor space per person in dining, alcoholic beverage and cafeteria space, and

(b) 0.40 m² of floor space per person for all other uses.

TABLE 2.7.1.A.

Forming Part of Article 2.7.1.4.

Posting occupant load

2.7.1.5.  (1)  When the occupant load as determined in Article 2.7.1.4. is more than 60 persons, the occupant load shall be posted in a conspicuous location.

(2)  When the occupant load has been determined using Subclause 2.7.1.4.(3)(b)(i), a permanent sign indicating the occupant load shall be posted in a conspicuous location.

Nonfixed seating

2.7.1.6.  (1)  Nonfixed row seating in an assembly occupancy shall be arranged as described in Sentences (2) to (8).

(2)  Aisles leading to exits shall be provided so that there are not more than seven seats between any seat and the nearest aisle.

(3)  The minimum clear width of aisles shall be at least 1100 mm, except as permitted by Sentence (4).

(4)  Aisles required in Sentence (3) may be reduced in width to 750 mm when serving 60 seats or less, or 900 mm when serving seats on one side only.

(5)  Aisles shall terminate in a cross aisle, foyer or exit and the width of such cross aisle, foyer or exit shall be at least the required width of the widest aisle plus 50% of the total required width of the remaining aisles that it serves.

(6)  The distance of travel to an exit door by an aisle shall not be greater than 30 m, except in a sprinklered floor area where the distance of travel shall not be greater than 45 m.

(7)  Where the occupant load exceeds 200 persons in an assembly occupancy containing nonfixed seating, the seats shall be fastened in units of not less than 4 nor more than 12 seats, or each end seat abutting an aisle shall be securely fastened to the floor.

(8)  Seats may be arranged in a manner that does not meet the requirements of Sentence (7) where the aisle widths are increased by 50% above the requirements set out in Sentences (2) to (6), and where the maximum occupant load of the space is based on not less than 1.2 m² of floor space per person.

Maintenance and lighting for exits

2.7.1.7.  (1)  Means of egress shall be maintained in good repair and free of obstructions.

(2)  Lighting provided for illumination in exits and access to exits, including corridors used by the public, shall be maintained.

Fire escapes

2.7.1.8.  (1)  Exterior passageways, exterior stairways and fire escapes in occupied buildings shall be maintained in good repair and operational and kept free of snow and ice accumulations.

(2)  Where equipment is provided to melt snow or ice on exterior passageways, exterior stairways and fire escapes in an occupied building, the equipment shall be maintained in working order or alternative measures shall be taken as specified in Sentence (1).

Turnstiles and checkout counters

2.7.1.9.  (1)  Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), turnstiles, checkout counters, railings or barriers shall not obstruct the exits or access to exits from any room, floor area or storey.

(2)  Checkout counters or control posts in retail outlets may be used within access to exits if there is a clear width of at least 450 mm up to a height of 914 mm.

(3)  If the checkout counters or control posts exceed 914 mm in height, there shall be a clear width of at least 550 mm.

(4)  The clear width may be less than that required by Sentences (2) and (3) if an alternative means of egress is adjacent to and plainly visible from the restricted egress.

(5)  Wheeled carts shall be stored after use so as not to obstruct access to exits in retail outlets where wheeled carts are used by customers.

(6)  Despite Sentences (1) to (5), the aggregate width of exits and access to exits shall be provided.

Subsection 2.7.2.  Door Hardware

Door release hardware

2.7.2.1.  (1)  Every exit door shall be designed and installed so that, when the latch is released, the door will open in the direction of exit travel under a force of not more than 90 N, applied at the knob or other latch releasing device.

(2)  Approved hardware designed to release the latch and allow the door to open in the direction of exit travel when a force of not more than 90 N is applied to the hardware is required on

(a) every door in an access to exit from a room or suite of assembly occupancy having an occupant load of more than 100 persons,

(b) every exit door from a floor area containing an assembly occupancy having an occupant load of more than 100 persons,

(c) every door leading to an exit lobby from an exit stair shaft in buildings having an occupant load of more than 100 persons,

(d) every exterior door leading from an exit stair shaft in buildings having an occupant load of more than 100 persons, and

(e) every exit door from a floor area containing a high hazard industrial occupancy.

(3)  Every door that opens into a corridor or other facility providing access to exit from a suite or room not located within a suite shall swing

(a) on its vertical axis, and

(b) in the direction of exit travel where the room or suite is used or intended to be used for an occupant load of more than 60 persons or is designed for a high hazard industrial occupancy.

(4)  Sentences (1) and (3) do not apply if the existing door is approved and either does not endanger life safety or is modified to provide life safety.

(5)  Sentences (1), (2) and (3) do not apply in rapid transit stations which comply with the Building Code.

2.7.2.2.  (1)  Except as permitted in Sentences (2) and (3), locking, latching and other fastening devices on

(a) every required exit door, and

(b) every door that opens into or is located within

(i) a public corridor,

(ii) a facility that provides access to exit from a suite, or

(iii) a facility that provides access to exit from a room serving patients or residents in a care or detention occupancy

shall be such that the door can be readily opened to permit egress without requiring keys, special devices or specialized knowledge of the door opening mechanism.

(2)  Except for a door in an elementary or secondary school or a door leading directly from a high hazard industrial occupancy, a door in an access to exit or an exit door may be equipped with an electromagnetic locking device that is approved or complies with the Building Code.

(3)  An egress door that serves a contained use area or impeded egress zone may be equipped with a locking device that can be released either locally or remotely provided

(a) local locking devices are operable by a key from both sides of the door,

(b) controls for the remote release of the door locking devices are located in an area readily available to security personnel, and

(c) electrical release devices are designed to operate on emergency power and are also manually operated by security personnel.

(4)  Sentence (1) does not apply in rapid transit stations that comply with the Building Code.

Subsection 2.7.3.  Exit Lighting and Emergency Lighting

Exit signs

2.7.3.1.  Required exit signs shall be clearly visible and maintained in a clean and legible condition.

2.7.3.2.  Exit signs shall be illuminated, externally or internally, as appropriate for each sign's design, while the building is occupied.

Emergency lighting

2.7.3.3.  (1)  Pilot lights on emergency lighting unit equipment shall be checked monthly for operation.

(2)  Emergency lighting unit equipment shall be inspected monthly to ensure that

(a) the terminal connections are clean, free of corrosion and lubricated when necessary,

(b) the terminal clamps are clean and tight as per manufacturer's specifications,

(c) the electrolyte level and specific gravity are maintained as per manufacturer's specifications, and

(d) the battery surface is kept clean and dry.

(3)  Emergency lighting unit equipment shall be tested

(a) monthly to ensure that the emergency lights will function upon failure of the primary power supply, and

(b) annually to ensure that the unit will provide emergency lighting for a duration equal to the design criteria under simulated power failure conditions.

(4)  After completion of the test required in Clause (3)(b), the charging conditions for voltage and current and the recovery period shall be tested to ensure that the charging system is in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.

(5)  Except as provided in Sentences (1) to (4), emergency lights shall be inspected at intervals not greater than 12 months to ensure that they are functional.

(6)  Where emergency power for the lights referred to in Sentence (5) is provided from a system of batteries, the batteries shall be inspected and tested in accordance with the procedures set out in Sentences (2) to (4).

Subsection 2.7.4.  Indoor Public Amusement Areas

Fire hazards

2.7.4.1.  (1)  Public amusement areas located in buildings shall be designed so that they do not create a fire hazard to the public using the facility.

(2)  Hay, straw, shavings, textiles, films or similar combustible materials shall not be used in the design and construction or as decorative features in public amusement areas located in buildings unless approved provisions are made to control the hazard.

Emergency egress

2.7.4.2.  (1)  Indoor public amusement areas that involve enclosed, confined or otherwise confusing configurations shall be provided with emergency egress points that

(a) have appropriate width, height and capacity for the anticipated occupant load,

(b) are not more than 15 m travel from any point within the public amusement area except as approved,

(c) are clearly identified with signs, and

(d) are equipped with emergency lighting providing a minimum lighting level of 10 lx at floor or pathway level for a duration of at least 30 min, where natural lighting is not sufficient in the circumstances.

SECTION 2.8  EMERGENCY PLANNING

Subsection 2.8.1.  General

Application

2.8.1.1.  (1)  The requirements of this Section shall apply to buildings containing

(a) assembly occupancy or care or detention occupancy,

(b) residential occupancy where the occupant load exceeds 10,

(c) business and personal services occupancy where the occupant load exceeds 300,

(d) mercantile occupancy where the occupant load exceeds 300,

(e) high hazard industrial occupancy where the occupant load exceeds 25,

(f) medium hazard industrial occupancy where the occupant load exceeds 100, or

(g) low hazard industrial occupancy where the occupant load exceeds 300.

(2)  Despite Sentence (1), the requirements of this Section shall apply to buildings or premises

(a) containing 4 storeys or more, including storeys below grade,

(b) subject to the provisions of Subsection 3.5.3.,

(c) subject to the provisions of Article 4.1.5.6.,

(d) subject to the provisions of Article 4.12.4.1.,

(e) regulated by Section 9.3,

(f) subject to the provisions of Sentence 9.5.3.1.(3), or

(g) used as a convalescent home or children's custodial home providing sleeping accommodation for more than three persons.

(3)  Despite Sentence (1), the requirements of this Section apply to recreational camps regulated by or under the Health Protection and Promotion Act.

(4)  Despite Sentence (1), the requirements of this Section apply to facilities regulated by or under the Developmental Services Act.

Instructions in emergency procedures

2.8.1.2.  (1)  Supervisory staff shall be instructed in the fire emergency procedures as described in the fire safety plan before they are given any responsibility for fire safety.

(2)  Supervisory staff shall be available on notification of a fire emergency to fulfil their obligation as described in the fire safety plan.

(3)  It is not necessary that supervisory staff be in the building on a continual basis.

2.8.1.3.  (1)  Employees in a hotel establishment shall be instructed on

(a) the procedures outlined in Article 2.8.2.1., and

(b) the use of fire fighting equipment, including portable extinguishers and, where applicable, standpipe and hose systems.

Subsection 2.8.2.  Fire Safety Plan

Measures in a fire safety plan

2.8.2.1.  (1)  A fire safety plan shall include

(a) the emergency procedures to be used in case of fire, including

(i) sounding the fire alarm,

(ii) notifying the fire department,

(iii) instructing occupants on procedures to be followed when the fire alarm sounds,

(iv) evacuating occupants, including special provisions for persons requiring assistance,

(v) the procedures for use of elevators, and

(vi) confining, controlling and extinguishing the fire,

(b) the appointment and organization of designated supervisory staff to carry out fire safety duties,

(c) the training of supervisory staff and instruction of other occupants in their responsibilities for fire safety,

(d) documents, including diagrams, showing the type, location and operation of the building fire emergency systems.

(e) the holding of fire drills,

(f) the control of fire hazards in the building,

(g) the maintenance of building facilities provided for the safety of occupants, and

(h) the provision of alternative measures for the safety of occupants during any shutdown of fire protection equipment and systems or part thereof.

(2)  The fire safety plan shall be prepared, approved and implemented in buildings regulated by Article 2.8.1.1.

(3)  The fire safety plan shall be kept in the building in an approved location.

(4)  The fire safety plan shall be reviewed as often as necessary, but at intervals not greater than 12 months, to ensure that it takes account of changes in the use and other characteristics of the building.

(5)  The approval specified in Sentence (2) does not apply to a hotel establishment with respect to which approval, as defined in Sentence 1.1.6.2.(5) of Ontario Regulation 388/97 (Fire Code) as it read on December 31, 2006, was granted for so long as such approval is valid.

Supervisory staff

2.8.2.2.  (1)  There shall be sufficient supervisory staff available in care or detention occupancies to carry out the duties as required in the fire safety plan.

(2)  In hotel establishments

(a) there shall be sufficient supervisory staff available to carry out the duties as required in the fire safety plan, and

(b) in buildings greater than 3 storeys in building height or having a total area greater than 4000 m², supervisory staff shall be on duty whenever the building is occupied.

High buildings

2.8.2.3.  (1)  The fire safety plan in buildings within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6. of Division B of the Building Code shall, in addition to the requirements of Sentence 2.8.2.1.(1), include

(a) the instruction of supervisory staff on the use of the voice communication system,

(b) the action to be taken by supervisory staff in initiating any smoke control or other fire emergency systems installed in a building in the event of fire until the fire department arrives,

(c) the procedures established to facilitate fire department access to the building and fire location within the building, and

(d) the instructions for the supervisory staff and fire department for the operation of the fire emergency systems.

2.8.2.4.  A copy of the fire emergency procedures and other duties for supervisory staff as laid down in the fire safety plan shall be given to all supervisory staff.

Posting fire emergency procedures

2.8.2.5.  (1)  At least one copy of the fire emergency procedures shall be prominently posted and maintained on each floor area.

(2)  In addition to Sentence (1), in a hotel establishment

(a) one copy of the approved fire safety plan shall be posted in the main reception area, and

(b) a copy of the emergency procedures, location of exits and the fire safety rules shall be posted on the inside of the egress doors of each guest suite.

(3)  Where a fire alarm system has been installed with no provisions to transmit a signal to the fire department, a legible notice, that is not easily removed, shall be affixed to the wall near each manual pull station with wording that the fire department is to be notified in the event of a fire emergency and including the emergency telephone number for the municipality or the telephone number of the fire department.

Subsection 2.8.3.  Fire Drills

Procedures

2.8.3.1.  (1)  The procedure for conducting fire drills described in Clause 2.8.2.1.(1)(e) shall be included in the fire safety plan, taking into consideration

(a) the building occupancy and its fire hazards,

(b) the safety features provided in the building,

(c) the desirable degree of participation of occupants other than supervisory staff,

(d) the number and degree of experience of participating supervisory staff, and

(e) the testing and operation of the emergency systems installed in buildings within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6. of Division B of the Building Code.

(2)  The fire drill procedures required in Sentence (1) shall be prepared in consultation with the Chief Fire Official.

Frequency

2.8.3.2.  (1)  Fire drills as described in Sentence 2.8.3.1.(1) shall be held at least once during each 12-month period for the supervisory staff, except that

(a) in day care centres, facilities regulated by or under the Developmental Services Act and care or detention occupancies, fire drills shall be held at least monthly,

(b) in schools attended by children, total evacuation fire drills shall be held three times in each of the fall and spring school terms, and

(c) in buildings within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6. of Division B of the Building Code, fire drills shall be held every three months.

(2)  In addition to the requirements of Sentence (1), every employee in a hotel establishment shall take part in at least one fire drill during each 12-month period.

(3)  Records of a fire drill required by this Article shall be kept for 12 months after the fire drill.

SECTION 2.9  TENTS AND AIR-SUPPORTED STRUCTURES

Subsection 2.9.1.  General

2.9.1.1.  Tents and air-supported structures shall be in conformance with the Building Code.

2.9.1.2.  This Section does not apply to tents that have an area of 30 m² or less and that are used for camping, personal or other non-commercial uses.

Subsection 2.9.2.  Materials

Flameproofing treatments

2.9.2.1.  Flameproofing treatments shall be renewed as often as necessary to ensure that the material will pass the match flame test in NFPA 705, "Recommended Practice for a Field Flame Test for Textiles and Films".

Subsection 2.9.3.  Fire Hazards and Control

Combustible materials

2.9.3.1.  Hay, straw, shavings or similar combustible materials other than that necessary for the daily feeding and care of animals shall not be permitted within a tent or air-supported structure used for an assembly occupancy, except that sawdust and shavings are permitted to be used if kept damp.

Smoking and open flames

2.9.3.2.  Smoking and open flame devices shall not be permitted in a tent or air-supported structure unless provisions have been made for such activities under the fire safety plan.

Fire alarm system or firewatch

2.9.3.3.  (1)  Despite Article 2.9.1.1., if a tent or air-supported structure does not have a fire alarm system that conforms to the Building Code,

(a) it may have an approved fire alarm system that does not conform to the Building Code where the reliability and performance of the system will provide an adequate early warning level, or

(b) a person shall be employed for firewatch duty.

2.9.3.4.  (1)  A person employed for firewatch duty in accordance with Article 2.9.3.3. shall

(a) be familiarized with all fire safety features, including the fire safety plan as provided in conformance with Section 2.8 and the condition of exits, and

(b) patrol the area to ensure that the means of egress are kept clear and that regulations are enforced.

Communications systems

2.9.3.5.  When the conditions of Article 2.9.3.3. apply, an approved communications system shall be provided.

SECTION 2.10  DAY CARE CENTRES

Subsection 2.10.1.  Application

Application

2.10.1.1.  (1)  This Section applies to day care centres for children.

(2)  Notwithstanding Sentence (1), this Section does not apply to "private-home day care" as described in the Day Nurseries Act.

Subsection 2.10.2.  Combustible Materials

Artwork and teaching materials on walls

2.10.2.1.  Combustible artwork and teaching materials that are attached to walls shall not exceed 20% of the area of the walls.

Waste receptacles

2.10.2.2.  Waste receptacles shall be made of noncombustible materials.

Flammable and combustible liquids

2.10.2.3.  Flammable liquids and combustible liquids shall be stored in conformance with Part 4 and in areas inaccessible to children.

Subsection 2.10.3.  Staffing

2.10.3.1.  Where children with disabilities are cared for, sufficient staff shall be present at all times during the period the children are in the centre to escort them to safety in the event of a fire emergency.

SECTION 2.11  INSULATION AND RE-INSULATION

Subsection 2.11.1.  General

2.11.1.1.  The installation of insulation, including the replacement of insulation, shall be carried out in accordance with the Building Code.

2.11.1.2.  Unless otherwise approved, combustible insulation shall be protected as prescribed in the Building Code.

2.11.1.3.  Insulation shall not be placed in building roof-ceiling or floor-ceiling assemblies, as described in Parts 3 and 9 of Division B of the Building Code, where the assemblies are required to have a fire-resistance rating unless the insulation does not reduce the fire-resistance rating of the assemblies.

SECTION 2.12  COVERED MALLS

Subsection 2.12.1.  General

2.12.1.1.  (1)  Covered malls designed for ornamental and pedestrian uses only shall not be used for merchandising or public activities, except that such activities may be permitted on a temporary basis where they do not create a fire hazard.

(2)  Where a covered mall described in Sentence (1) is used for merchandising or public activities, the fire safety plan described in Section 2.8 shall include additional provisions to offset any hazard that may be created by such activities.

2.12.1.2.  Merchandising or public activities in a sprinklered covered mall described in Article 2.12.1.1. shall not be permitted where such activity will create a hazard exceeding the design criteria for which the sprinkler system was designed.

2.12.1.3.  (1)  When a covered mall having a width of 9 m or more has been provided for the purpose of considering each portion of the building separated by the mall as a separate building, no merchandising or public activities shall be carried on within the 9 m width.

(2)  Despite Sentence (1), merchandising or public activities or both may be carried on within the 9 m width where they are approved and they do not endanger life safety or alternative measures are taken to provide life safety.

2.12.1.4.  Access to exits within a covered mall shall be provided and maintained in conformance with Subsection 2.7.1.

2.12.1.5.  Where a covered mall is used for merchandising or public activities, the activities shall be arranged so that access to fire protection equipment, including sprinkler control valves, fire hose stations, portable extinguishers and fire alarm stations, is not restricted.

2.12.1.6.  Decorative materials used for merchandising or public activities in a covered mall shall conform to Subsection 2.3.2.

2.12.1.7.  Where a covered mall is used for the display of fueled equipment, batteries shall be disconnected and caps for fuel tanks shall be locked or secured against tampering.

SECTION 2.13  INSTALLATION OF SMOKE ALARMS

Subsection 2.13.1.  Scope

2.13.1.1.  (1)  Except as provided in Sentence (2), this Section applies to all dwelling units.

(2)  This Section does not apply to dwelling units in buildings that are regulated under the scope of Part 9, including dwelling units regulated under Section 9.8.

(3)  In Sentence (2), "dwelling unit", in light face, means "dwelling unit" as defined in Sentence 9.8.1.1.(2).

Subsection 2.13.2.  Installation

2.13.2.1.  (1)  Smoke alarms conforming to CAN/ULC-S531, "Standard for Smoke Alarms", shall be installed in accordance with this Article.

(2)  Except as provided in Sentence (7), smoke alarms shall be installed between each sleeping area and the remainder of the dwelling unit, and where the sleeping areas are served by hallways, the smoke alarms shall be installed in the hallways.

(3)  In addition to the requirements in Sentence (2), at least one smoke alarm shall be installed on each storey that does not contain a sleeping area in a dwelling unit.

(4)  Smoke alarms shall be installed by permanent connections to an electrical circuit and shall have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarm.

(5)  Battery-operated smoke alarms are deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (3).

(6)  Existing smoke alarms meeting the requirements of ULC-S531-1978, "Standard for Smoke Alarms", are deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).

(7)  Sentence (2) does not apply where smoke alarms are installed in each bedroom in accordance with Subsection 9.10.18. of Division B of the Building Code.

SECTION 2.14  OUTDOOR PUBLIC AMUSEMENT AREAS

Subsection 2.14.1.  General

Application

2.14.1.1.  This Section applies to public amusement areas located outdoors.

Fire hazards

2.14.1.2.  (1)  Outdoor public amusement areas shall be designed so that they do not create a fire hazard to the public using them.

(2)  Hay, straw, shavings, textiles, films or similar combustible materials shall not be used in the design and construction or as decorative features in outdoor public amusement areas unless approved provisions are made to control the hazard.

Ignition sources

2.14.1.3.  Smoking, open flames, temporary wiring, heat-producing equipment and similar ignition sources shall not be permitted where they constitute a fire hazard to the public except in specifically approved areas.

Emergency egress

2.14.1.4.  (1)  Outdoor public amusement areas that involve enclosed, confined or otherwise confusing configurations shall be provided with emergency egress points that

(a) have appropriate width, height and capacity for the anticipated number of occupants,

(b) are not more than 15 m travel from any point within the public amusement area except as approved,

(c) are clearly identified with signs, and

(d) are equipped with lighting providing a minimum lighting level of 10 lx at floor or pathway level for a duration of at least 30 min, where natural lighting is not sufficient in the circumstances.

Fire safety procedures

2.14.1.5.  (1)  The operator of the outdoor public amusement area shall develop and implement written fire safety procedures that include

(a) a means of alerting the persons in the public amusement area of a fire emergency and notifying the fire department,

(b) evacuation of endangered persons,

(c) appointment and instruction of supervisory staff to carry out fire safety duties, and

(d) fire prevention and control of fire hazards.

(2)  The procedures described in Sentence (1) shall be made available to the Chief Fire Official upon request.

SECTION 2.15  PORTABLE OXYGEN SYSTEMS

Subsection 2.15.1.  General

2.15.1.1.  This Section applies to portable oxygen systems used for medical purposes in residential occupancies and health care facilities.

2.15.1.2.  Storage, handling and use of portable oxygen systems shall be in conformance with CSA-Z305.12, "Safe Storage, Handling, and Use of Portable Oxygen Systems in Residential Buildings and Health Care Facilities".

O. Reg. 213/07, Division B, Part 2.

Sec 1, Sec 2, Sec 3, Sec 4, Sec 5, Sec 6, Sec 7&8, Sec 9, Admin section