Code structure, objectives and farm building services (Building Services)

Last updated October 22, 2026

Values this chapter turns on

min exterior alarm signal on a farm building: 110 dBA; min exterior alarm signal on a farm building
min time before farm alarms may auto-silence: 20 min; min time before farm alarms may auto-silence
average farm emergency lighting in exits: 10 lx; average farm emergency lighting in exits
min exhaust from a feed room linked to a silo: 3 ACH; min exhaust from a feed room linked to a silo

The Building Services exam opens with the same framework every BCIN exam uses: how the code applies, how you comply, what the defined terms mean and how objectives and functional statements hang together. It then adds a service-specific slice of Part 2, the farm building rules, covering fire alarm, firefighting, emergency lighting and ventilation in agricultural buildings. Expect a handful of quick lookups here. They are easy marks if you know where to look.

Application, compliance and definitions

The code applies to the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings, whether the building is built on site or in a factory OBC Div. A 1.1.1.1.. Part 1 of Division B simply restates that it applies to every building covered by the code.

Two routes to compliance. You comply either by meeting the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B, or by using an alternative solution that achieves at least the same level of performance, judged against the objectives and functional statements attributed to the acceptable solution in Supplementary Standard SA-1 OBC Div. A 1.2.1.1.. An acceptable solution is any requirement stated in Parts 2 to 12 of Division B definition.

Which Part applies. For a services inspector this decides whether a building goes to Part 3 and Part 6, or to Part 9.

Building	Parts that apply
Group A, Group B or Group F, Division 1, any size	Parts 3, 4, 5 and 6 OBC Div. A 1.3.3.2.
Post-disaster building, any size	Parts 3, 4, 5 and 6
Group C, D, E or F2/F3 over 600 m² building area or over 3 storeys	Parts 3, 4, 5 and 6
Group C (not a retirement home), D, E or F2/F3, 3 storeys or less and 600 m² or less	Part 9 OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3.

Note that a retirement home is excluded from Part 9 even when it is small, so it goes to Part 3.

Firewalls and building size. A firewall normally makes each side a separate building, but not for three purposes: the gross area used in Division C, the fire alarm and detection requirement in 3.2.4.2.(1) or 9.10.18.1., and a plumbing system interconnected through the firewall OBC Div. A 1.3.3.4.. This matters for services: two halves of a building split by a firewall are still counted together when you decide whether a fire alarm system is needed.

Undefined words take their ordinary meaning in the trade or profession that uses them OBC Div. A 1.4.1.1.. Defined words appear in italics and are listed in Article 1.4.1.2.

Climate data. Design climatic values come from Supplementary Standard SB-1, and the outside winter design temperature is the January 2.5% value OBC Div. B 1.1.3.1.. This is the number a heating designer uses for heat-loss calculations.

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Objectives and functional statements

Division A Part 2 lists the objectives, and Part 3 lists the functional statements. Each objective has a two-letter code; sub-objectives add numbers OBC Div. A 2.2.1.1..

Code	Objective
OS	Safety (OS1 fire safety, OS3 safety in use)
OH	Health (OH1 indoor conditions, OH5 hazardous substances)
OA	Accessibility
OP	Fire, structural, water and sewage protection of buildings
OR	Resource conservation (OR1 water and energy)
OE	Environmental integrity
OC	Conservation of buildings

Functional statements start with F OBC Div. A 3.2.1.1.. Service-related ones worth recognising: F11 (notify occupants of an emergency), F13 (notify emergency responders), F33 (limit the sound level of a fire alarm system), F50 (air suitable for breathing), F51 (air and surface temperatures), F131 (limit excessive energy consumption). Fire alarm sound is a good example of the link: sub-objective OS3.5 is about exposure to high sound levels from fire alarm systems, and F33 is the matching function.

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Farm buildings: fire alarm, firefighting and emergency lighting

Farm buildings use Group G occupancies: G1 high-hazard, G2 agricultural not elsewhere classified, G3 greenhouse and G4 with no human occupants.

When a fire alarm is required. Only in a farm building that is not sprinklered throughout, and then OBC Div. B 2.2.3.1.:

Occupancy	Trigger
G1	Occupant load more than 25
G2 or G3	Occupant load more than 150, or more than 1 storey, or a basement used for anything other than service equipment

The system must be single-stage in a G1 occupancy and may be single- or 2-stage in G2 or G3 OBC Div. B 2.2.3.2.. It needs a manual station near every exit, and an air-handling system serving more than one storey must stop circulating smoke on a duct-type smoke detector signal OBC Div. B 2.2.3.3..

Signals. An exterior audible device of at least 110 dBA is required, plus visible signals where ambient noise is above 87 dBA, where workers wear ear protection, or where they work in sound-insulating enclosures. Audible devices may be left out where animals are present, provided visible signals cover the area OBC Div. B 2.2.3.4.. Alarms must not silence automatically for at least 20 min, and manual silencing switches are allowed only inside the control unit OBC Div. B 2.2.3.5.. Fire detectors are needed throughout, except in sprinklered floor areas OBC Div. B 2.2.3.7..

Firefighting. Fire department access by street, private roadway or yard is required. A sprinkler system, where provided, follows Article 3.2.5.12., and a fire pump follows 3.2.5.18. Waterflow devices connect to the fire alarm system, or to an audible device where there is no fire alarm OBC Div. B 2.2.4.2.. Portable extinguishers follow the Fire Code OBC Div. B 2.2.4.3..

Emergency lighting. Where lighting is provided, emergency lighting must average at least 10 lx at floor or tread level in exits and principal routes to exits in open floor areas and service rooms, with a minimum of 1 lx at any point, and the emergency supply must take over automatically for 30 min OBC Div. B 2.2.5.1..

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Farm buildings: HVAC and ventilation

Farm HVAC follows Part 6, except for four provisions listed as not applying: Articles 6.3.1.3. and 6.4.1.1. and Sentences 6.3.2.8.(3) and 6.3.2.10.(13) OBC Div. B 2.4.1.1.. Outdoor air rates follow good engineering practice under 6.2.1.1., but a G4 farm building is exempt OBC Div. B 2.4.2.1..

Situation	Rule
Fuel-fired appliance in a greenhouse (G3)	Separate combustion air and flue systems, unless it is a CO2 generator that conforms to CSA B149.1 OBC Div. B 2.4.2.2.
Controlled-atmosphere storage	Oxygen kept between 19.5% and 23% by volume before and during access, warning sign at each entrance OBC Div. B 2.4.2.3.
Feed room connected to a silo or grain bin	Mechanical exhaust from the lowest floor level at not less than 3 air changes per hour OBC Div. B 2.4.2.4.
Enclosed horizontal silo	Roof or eave openings and floor-level openings, each at least 1% of the silo floor area
Livestock over liquid manure	Flammable gases held to 25% of the lower explosive limit and at least 2 air changes per hour OBC Div. B 2.4.2.5.

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Common traps

The fire alarm triggers in Part 2 apply only when the farm building is not sprinklered throughout.
G1 triggers at an occupant load over 25; G2 and G3 at over 150. Do not swap them.
The farm emergency lighting duration is 30 min, and its supply must switch over automatically.
A firewall does not split a building for the fire alarm decision.
Feed rooms need 3 air changes per hour; liquid manure areas need at least 2.

Chapter review

Chapter at a glance

One line per section: the idea to carry into the exam. Then the answers that most often catch candidates out.

Chapter at a glance: the key idea in each section
Section	Key idea
Application, compliance and definitions	The code applies to the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings, whether the building is built on site or in a factory.
Objectives and functional statements	Division A Part 2 lists the objectives, and Part 3 lists the functional statements.
Farm buildings: fire alarm, firefighting and emergency lighting	Farm buildings use Group G occupancies: G1 high-hazard, G2 agricultural not elsewhere classified, G3 greenhouse and G4 with no human occupants.
Farm buildings: HVAC and ventilation	Farm HVAC follows Part 6, except for four provisions listed as not applying: Articles 6.3.1.3. and 6.4.1.1. and Sentences 6.3.2.8.(3) and 6.3.2.10.(13).

Application, compliance and definitions
The code applies to the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings, whether the building is built on site or in a factory.
Objectives and functional statements
Division A Part 2 lists the objectives, and Part 3 lists the functional statements.
Farm buildings: fire alarm, firefighting and emergency lighting
Farm buildings use Group G occupancies: G1 high-hazard, G2 agricultural not elsewhere classified, G3 greenhouse and G4 with no human occupants.
Farm buildings: HVAC and ventilation
Farm HVAC follows Part 6, except for four provisions listed as not applying: Articles 6.3.1.3. and 6.4.1.1. and Sentences 6.3.2.8.(3) and 6.3.2.10.(13).

Usual exam traps

The fire alarm triggers in Part 2 apply only when the farm building is not sprinklered throughout.
G1 triggers at an occupant load over 25; G2 and G3 at over 150. Do not swap them.
The farm emergency lighting duration is 30 min, and its supply must switch over automatically.
A firewall does not split a building for the fire alarm decision.
Feed rooms need 3 air changes per hour; liquid manure areas need at least 2.

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Questions on Code structure, objectives and farm building services, in the exam format, every answer explained and cited to its article. Sign in to start; a free account gets the free questions.

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Code cited in this chapter

Based on the official 2024 Building Code Compendium on ontario.ca.

OBC Div. A 1.1.1.1. Application of this Code
(1)This Code applies to the construction, demolition, change of use and occupancy of buildings.
(2)This Code applies to both site-built and factory-constructed buildings. (See Note A-1.1.1.1.(2))
Open OBC Div. A 1.1.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.2.1.1. Compliance with this Code
(1)Compliance with this Code shall be achieved by
(a)complying with the applicable acceptable solutions in Division B (See Note A-1.2.1.1.(1)(a)), or
(b)using alternative solutions that will achieve at least the minimum level of performance required by the applicable acceptable solutions in respect of the objectives and functional statements attributed to the applicable acceptable solutions in Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing (MMAH) Supplementary Standard SA-1, "Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions." (See Note A-1.2.1.1.(1)(b))
(2)For the purposes of Clause (1)(b), the level of performance in respect of a functional statement refers to the performance of the functional statement as it relates to the objective with which it is associated in MMAH Supplementary Standard SA-1, "Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions."
Open OBC Div. A 1.2.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Acceptable solution
Acceptable solution means a requirement stated in Parts 2 to 12 of Division B.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.2. Application of Parts 3, 4, 5 and 6
(1)Subject to Articles 1.3.3.1A., 1.3.3.3B., Parts 3, 4, 5, and 6 of Division B apply to all buildings described in Article 1.1.1.1. and
(a)classified as post-disaster buildings,
(b)used for major occupancies classified as
(i)Group A, assembly occupancies,
(ii)Group B, care, care and treatment or detention occupancies, or
(iii)Group F, Division 1, high-hazard industrial occupancies, or
(c)exceeding 600 m² in building area or exceeding 3 storeys in building height used for major occupancies classified as
(i)Group C, residential occupancies,
(ii)Group D, business and personal services occupancies,
(iii)Group E, mercantile occupancies, or
(iv)Group F, Divisions 2 and 3, medium- and low-hazard industrial occupancies.
(2)Subject to Articles 1.3.3.1A. and 1.3.3.3B., Part 4 of Division B applies to
(a)a retaining wall exceeding 1,000 mm in exposed height adjacent to
(i)public property,
(ii)access to a building, or
(iii)private property to which the public is admitted,
(b)a pedestrian bridge appurtenant to a building,
(c)a crane runway,
(d)an exterior storage tank and its supporting structure that is not regulated by the Technical Standards and Safety Act, 2000,
(e)signs regulated by Section 3.15. of Division B that are not structurally supported by a building,
(f)a structure that supports a wind turbine generator having a rated output of more than 3 kW,
(g)an outdoor pool that has a water depth greater than 3.5 m at any point, and
(h)a permanent solid nutrient storage facility with supporting walls exceeding 1,000 mm in exposed height.
(3)Section 3.11. of Division B applies to public pools.
(4)Section 3.12. of Division B applies to public spas.
(5)Section 3.15. of Division B applies to signs.
(6)Section 3.17. of Division B applies to demountable stages and demountable support structures.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3. Application of Part 9
(1)Subject to Article 1.3.3.3B., Part 9 of Division B applies to all buildings described in Article 1.1.1.1. of 3 storeys or less in building height, having a building area not exceeding 600 m², and used for major occupancies classified as
(a)reserved
(b)Group C, residential occupancies other than buildings used for retirement homes, (See Note A-9.1.1.1.(1) of Division B)
(c)Group D, business and personal services occupancies,
(d)Group E, mercantile occupancies, or
(e)Group F, Divisions 2 and 3, medium- and low-hazard industrial occupancies.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.3.3.4. Building Size Determination
(1)Where a firewall divides a building, each portion of the building that is divided shall be considered as a separate building, except for the purposes of
(a)a determination of gross area in Section 1.2. of Division C,
(b)a fire alarm and detection system in Sentence 3.2.4.2.(1) of Division B or Article 9.10.18.1. of Division B, and
(c)a plumbing system interconnected through a firewall.
(2)Except as permitted in Sentence (3), where portions of a building are completely separated by a vertical fire separation that has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 h and extends through all storeys and service spaces of the separated portions, each separated portion is permitted to be considered as a separate building for the purpose of determining building height, provided
(a)each separated portion is not more than 3 storeys in building height and is used only for residential occupancies other than a retirement home, and
(b)the unobstructed path of travel for a firefighter from the nearest street to one entrance of each separated portion is not more than 45 m.
(See Note A-1.3.3.4.(2))
(3)The vertical fire separation referred to in Sentence (2) may terminate at the floor assembly immediately above a basement provided the basement conforms to Article 3.2.1.2. of Division B.
Open OBC Div. A 1.3.3.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.1. Non-defined Terms
(1)Words and phrases used in this Code that are not included in the list of definitions in Articles 1.4.1.2., 1.4.1.3. and 1.4.1.4. and are not defined in another provision of this Code shall have the meanings that are commonly assigned to them in the context in which they are used, taking into account the specialized use of terms by the various trades and professions to which the terminology applies.
(2)Where objectives and functional statements are referred to in this Code, they shall be the objectives and functional statements described in Parts 2 and 3.
(3)Where acceptable solutions are referred to in this Code, they shall be the provisions stated in Parts 2 to 12 of Division B.
(4)Where alternative solutions are referred to in this Code, they shall be the alternative solutions mentioned in Clause 1.2.1.1.(1)(b).
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 1.1.3.1. Climatic and Seismic Values
(1)The climatic and seismic values required for the design of buildings under this Code shall be in conformance with the climatic and seismic values provided in MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-1, "Climatic and Seismic Data".
(2)The outside winter design temperatures determined from MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-1, "Climatic and Seismic Data", shall be those listed for the January 2.5% values. (See Note A-1.1.3.1.(2))
Open OBC Div. B 1.1.3.1. in the code viewer

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OBC Div. A 2.2.1.1. Objectives
(1)The objectives of this Code are as follows: (See Note A-2.2.1.1.(1))
OS Safety
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury.
OS1 Fire Safety
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to fire. The risks of injury due to fire addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS1.1 – fire or explosion occurring
OS1.2 – fire or explosion impacting areas beyond its point of origin
OS1.3 – collapse of physical elements due to a fire or explosion
OS1.4 – fire safety systems failing to function as expected
OS1.5 – persons being delayed in or impeded from moving to a safe place during a fire emergency
OS2 Structural Safety
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to structural failure. The risks of injury due to structural failure addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS2.1 – loads bearing on the building elements that exceed their loadbearing capacity
OS2.2 – loads bearing on the building that exceed the loadbearing properties of the supporting medium
OS2.3 – damage to or deterioration of building elements
OS2.4 – vibration or deflection of building elements
OS2.5 – instability of the building or part thereof
OS2.6 – collapse of the excavation
OS3 Safety in Use
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in or adjacent to the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to hazards. The risks of injury due to hazards addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS3.1 – tripping, slipping, falling, contact, drowning or collision
OS3.2 – contact with hot surfaces or substances
OS3.3 – contact with energized equipment
OS3.4 – exposure to hazardous substances
OS3.5 – exposure to high levels of sound from fire alarm systems
OS3.6 – persons becoming trapped in confined spaces
OS3.7 – persons being delayed in or impeded from moving to a safe place during an emergency (See Note A-2.2.1.1.(1))
OS4 Resistance to Unwanted Entry
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of injury due to the building's low level of resistance to unwanted entry. The risks of injury due to unwanted entry addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OS4.1 – intruders being able to force their way through locked doors or windows
OS4.2 – occupants being unable to identify potential intruders as such
OH Health
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness.
OH1 Indoor Conditions
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to indoor conditions. The risks of illness due to indoor conditions addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OH1.1 – inadequate indoor air quality
OH1.2 – inadequate thermal comfort
OH1.3 – contact with moisture
OH2 Sanitation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to unsanitary conditions. The risks of illness due to unsanitary conditions addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OH2.1 – exposure to human or domestic waste
OH2.2 – consumption of contaminated water
OH2.3 – inadequate facilities for personal hygiene
OH2.4 – contact with contaminated surfaces
OH2.5 – contact with vermin and insects
OH2.6 – unsanitary conditions caused by exposure to human or domestic waste
OH3 Noise Protection
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to high levels of sound originating in adjacent spaces in the building. The risks of illness due to high levels of sound addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OH3.1 – exposure to airborne sound transmitted through assemblies separating dwelling units from adjacent spaces in the building.
OH4 Vibration and Deflection Limitation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to high levels of vibration or deflection of building elements.
OH5 Hazardous Substances Containment
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, the public will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of illness due to the release of hazardous substances from the building.
OH6 Privacy
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a person in the building will be provided with an unacceptable level of privacy.
OH7 View to the Outdoors
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person in the building will be unable to experience a view to the outdoors.
OA Accessibility
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person with a physical or sensory limitation will be unacceptably impeded from accessing or using the building or its facilities.
OA1 Barrier-Free Path of Travel
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person with a physical or sensory limitation will be unacceptably impeded from accessing the building or circulating within it.
OA2 Barrier-Free Facilities
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, a person with a physical or sensory limitation will be unacceptably impeded from using the building's facilities.
OP Fire, Structural, Water and Sewage Protection of Buildings
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, the building or adjacent buildings will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage due to fire or structural insufficiency, or the building or part thereof will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of loss of use also due to structural insufficiency.
OP1 Fire Protection of the Building
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of its design or construction, the building will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage due to fire. The risks of damage due to fire addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP1.1 – fire or explosion occurring
OP1.2 – fire or explosion impacting areas beyond its point of origin
OP1.3 – collapse of physical elements due to a fire or explosion
OP1.4 – fire safety systems failing to function as expected
OP2 Structural Sufficiency of the Building
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of its design or construction, the building or part thereof will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage or loss of use due to structural failure or lack of structural serviceability. The risks of damage and of loss of use due to structural failure or lack of structural serviceability addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP2.1 – loads bearing on the building elements that exceed their loadbearing capacity
OP2.2 – loads bearing on the building that exceed the loadbearing properties of the supporting medium
OP2.3 – damage to or deterioration of building elements
OP2.4 – vibration or deflection of building elements
OP2.5 – instability of the building or part thereof
OP2.6 – instability or movement of the supporting medium
OP3 Protection of Adjacent Buildings from Fire
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, adjacent buildings will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of damage due to fire. The risks of damage to adjacent buildings due to fire addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP3.1 – fire or explosion impacting areas beyond the building of origin
OP4 Protection of Adjacent Buildings from Structural Damage
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of the building, adjacent buildings will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of structural damage. The risks of structural damage to adjacent buildings addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OP4.1 – settlement of the medium supporting adjacent buildings
OP4.2 – collapse of the building or portion thereof onto adjacent buildings
OP4.3 – impact of the building on adjacent buildings
OP4.4 – collapse of the excavation
OP5 Water and Sewage Protection of Buildings and Facilities
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a building will be exposed to unacceptable risk of damage due to leakage of service water or sewage.
OR Resource Conservation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of depletion or the capacity of the infrastructure supporting the use, treatment or disposal of the resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of being exceeded.
OR1 Water and Energy Conservation
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, a resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of depletion. The risks of resource depletion addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OR1.1 – the consumption of water
OR1.2 – the consumption of energy
OR2 Infrastructure Capacity
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, the capacity of the infrastructure supporting the use, treatment or disposal of a resource will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of being exceeded. The risks of exceeding capacity addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OR2.1 – excessive demand on the infrastructure
OE Environmental Integrity
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction or operation of the building, the natural environment will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of degradation.
OE1 Air Quality
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, the natural environment will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of degradation due to emissions of greenhouse gases into the air. The risks of degradation addressed in this Code are those caused by—
OE1.1 – emissions of greenhouse gases into the air
OE1.2 – the release of contaminants, other than greenhouse gases, into the air
OE2 Water and Soil Quality
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the design or construction of a building, the natural environment will be exposed to an unacceptable risk of degradation due to excessive release of contaminants into water or soil.
OC Conservation of Buildings
An objective of this Code is to limit the probability that, as a result of the extension, material alteration or repair of an existing building or a change in use of an existing building, the existing building cannot be acceptably conserved.
Open OBC Div. A 2.2.1.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 3.2.1.1. Functional Statements
(1)The objectives of this Code are achieved by measures, such as those described in the acceptable solutions in Division B, that are intended to allow the building or its elements to perform the following functions: (See Note A-3.2.1.1.(1))
F01 To minimize the risk of accidental ignition.
F02 To limit the severity and effects of fire or explosions.
F03 To retard the effects of fire on areas beyond its point of origin.
F04 To retard failure or collapse due to the effects of fire.
F05 To retard the effects of fire on emergency egress facilities.
F06 To retard the effects of fire on facilities for notification, suppression and emergency response.
F10 To facilitate the timely movement of persons to a safe place in an emergency.
F11 To notify persons, in a timely manner, of the need to take action in an emergency.
F12 To facilitate emergency response.
F13 To notify emergency responders, in a timely manner, of the need to take action in an emergency.
F20 To support and withstand expected loads and forces.
F21 To limit or accommodate dimensional change.
F22 To limit movement under expected loads and forces.
F23 To maintain equipment in place during structural movement.
F30 To minimize the risk of injury to persons as a result of tripping, slipping, falling, contact, drowning or collision.
F31 To minimize the risk of injury to persons as a result of contact with hot surfaces or substances.
F32 To minimize the risk of injury to persons as a result of contact with energized equipment.
F33 To limit the level of sound of a fire alarm system.
F34 To resist or discourage unwanted access or entry.
F35 To facilitate the identification of potential intruders.
F36 To minimize the risk that persons will be trapped in confined spaces.
F40 To limit the level of contaminants.
F41 To minimize the risk of generation of contaminants.
F42 To resist the entry of vermin and insects.
F43 To minimize the risk of release of hazardous substances.
F44 To limit the spread of hazardous substances beyond their point of release.
F45 To minimize the risk of the spread of diseases through communal shower facilities.
F46 To minimize the risk of contamination of potable water.
F50 To provide air suitable for breathing.
F51 To maintain appropriate air and surface temperatures.
F52 To maintain appropriate relative humidity.
F53 To maintain appropriate indoor/outdoor air pressure differences.
F54 To limit drafts.
F55 To resist the transfer of air through environmental separators.
F56 To limit the transmission of airborne sound into a dwelling unit from spaces elsewhere in the building.
F60 To control the accumulation and pressure of water on and in the ground.
F61 To resist the ingress of precipitation, water or moisture from the exterior or from the ground.
F62 To facilitate the dissipation of water and moisture from the building.
F63 To limit moisture condensation.
F70 To provide potable water.
F71 To provide facilities for personal hygiene.
F72 To provide facilities for the sanitary disposal of human and domestic wastes.
F73 To facilitate access to and circulation in the building and its facilities by persons with physical or sensory limitations.
F74 To facilitate the use of the building's facilities by persons with physical or sensory limitations.
F80 To resist deterioration resulting from expected service conditions.
F81 To minimize the risk of malfunction, interference, damage, tampering, lack of use or misuse.
F82 To minimize the risk of inadequate performance due to improper maintenance or lack of maintenance.
F101 To limit unwanted visual exposure.
F102 To provide a view to the outdoors in buildings.
F110 To control the release of contaminants into soil, groundwater, surface water, and air.
F111 To minimize the risk of malfunction, damage or failure of a sewage system.
F112 To provide adequate treatment of sanitary sewage and effluent.
F113 To minimize the risk of injury as a result of contact with sanitary sewage or partially treated effluent.
F120 To minimize the risk of injury to persons entering or exiting the pool, as a result of unfamiliarity with the pool.
F121 To minimize the risk of injury to persons using the pool, as a result of unfamiliarity with the pool.
F122 To minimize the risk of contamination of pool water.
F123 To facilitate timely response to incapacitated pool users.
F124 To minimize the risk of entrapment or injury to a person within the pool, as a result of water, air or vacuum action.
F130 To limit excessive water consumption.
F131 To limit excessive energy consumption.
F132 To limit excessive demand on the infrastructure.
F133 To limit excessive peak demand on the infrastructure.
F140 To facilitate the reuse and material alteration and repair of existing buildings.
F150 To limit excessive emissions of greenhouse gases into the air.
F151 To limit the excessive release of contaminants, other than greenhouse gases, into the air.
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OBC Div. B 2.2.3.1. Determination of Requirement for a Fire Alarm System
(1)A fire alarm system complying with Sentence (2) shall be installed in a building that is not sprinklered throughout and that
(a)contains a Group G, Division 1 major occupancy with an occupant load more than 25, or
(b)contains a Group G, Division 2 or 3 major occupancy
(i)with an occupant load more than 150,
(ii)in a building more than 1 storey in building height, or
(iii)in a building with a basement used for a purpose other than the housing of service equipment.
(2)Except as otherwise provided in this Section, the fire alarm system required by Sentence (1) shall comply with Articles 3.2.4.2., 3.2.4.4., 3.2.4.5. and 3.2.4.17. and Sentences 3.2.4.9.(1) and (4).
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OBC Div. B 2.2.3.2. Types of Fire Alarm Systems
(1)The fire alarm system required by Sentence 2.2.3.1.(1) shall be
(a)a single-stage system in a Group G, Division 1 major occupancy, and
(b)a single- or 2-stage system in a Group G, Division 2 or 3 major occupancy.
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OBC Div. B 2.2.3.3. Design of Fire Alarm Systems
(1)Where a fire alarm system is required by Sentence 2.2.3.1.(1),
(a)the air-handling system, where provided, shall be designed to prevent the circulation of smoke upon a signal from a duct-type smoke detector if the air-handling system serves more than 1 storey, and
(b)a manual station shall be installed in every floor area near every exit.
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OBC Div. B 2.2.3.4. Fire Alarm Signals
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (3), the fire alarm system required by Sentence 2.2.3.1.(1) shall include
(a)audible signal devices conforming to Sentences 3.2.4.18.(1) to (4), (7) and (11),
(b)an audible alarm signal device with a sound pressure level not less than 110 dBA installed on the exterior of the farm building, and
(c)visible signal devices installed in any floor area in which
(i)the ambient noise level is more than 87 dBA,
(ii)the occupants use ear protection devices, or
(iii)the occupants are located in sound-insulating enclosures.
(2)The visible signal devices required by Clause (1)(c) shall be installed so that the signal from at least one device is visible throughout the floor area or portion thereof in which they are installed. (See Note A-3.2.4.19.(3))
(3)The audible alarm signal devices referred to in Clauses (1)(a) and (b) need not be provided in areas where animals are present, provided that visible signal devices are installed in accordance with Sentence (2).
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OBC Div. B 2.2.3.5. Silencing of Alarm Signals
(1)The fire alarm system required by Sentence 2.2.3.1.(1) shall
(a)be designed so that when an alarm signal is actuated, it cannot be silenced automatically before a period of time has elapsed that is not less than 20 min, and
(b)not incorporate manual silencing switches other than those installed inside the fire alarm control unit.
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OBC Div. B 2.2.3.7. Fire Detectors
(1)Where a fire alarm system is required in a farm building in accordance with Sentence 2.2.3.1.(1), fire detectors shall be
(a)except as provided in Sentence (2), installed throughout the farm building, and
(b)connected to the fire alarm system.
(2)The fire detectors referred to in Sentence (1) need not be provided within floor areas that are sprinklered.
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OBC Div. B 2.2.4.2. Automatic Sprinkler Systems
(1)Where an automatic sprinkler system is provided, it shall conform to Article 3.2.5.12.
(2)Where a fire pump is installed as part of the automatic sprinkler system referred to in Sentence (1), it shall conform to Article 3.2.5.18.
(3)The automatic sprinkler system referred to in Sentence (1) shall be equipped with waterflow-detecting devices that are
(a)installed in accordance with Sentence 3.2.4.15.(1), and
(b)connected to
(i)the fire alarm system, where provided, so that, upon its actuation, an alert signal or an alarm signal is initiated, or
(ii)an audible signal device, where a fire alarm system is not provided.
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OBC Div. B 2.2.4.3. Portable Fire Extinguishers
(1)Portable extinguishers shall be provided and installed in accordance with the provisions of Part 6 of Division B of the Fire Code made under the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997.
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OBC Div. B 2.2.5.1. Minimum Lighting Requirements
(1)Where lighting is provided in a farm building, emergency lighting shall be provided to an average level of illumination not less than 10 lx at floor or tread level in
(a)exits, and
(b)principal routes providing access to exit in open floor areas and in service rooms.
(2)The minimum value of the illumination required by Sentence (1) shall be 1 lx.
(3)An emergency power supply shall be
(a)provided to maintain the emergency lighting required by Sentence (1) from a power source such as batteries or generators that will continue to supply power in the event that the regular power supply to the farm building is interrupted, and
(b)designed and installed such that, upon failure of the regular power, it will assume the electrical load automatically for a period of 30 min.
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OBC Div. B 2.4.1.1. Application
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), and except as otherwise provided in this Section, systems and equipment for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning services in farm buildings shall conform to Part 6.
(2)farm buildings need not comply with Articles 6.3.1.3. and 6.4.1.1. and Sentences 6.3.2.8.(3) and 6.3.2.10.(13).
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OBC Div. B 2.4.2.1. Required Ventilation
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), the rates at which outdoor air is supplied in farm buildings by ventilation systems shall be in accordance with good engineering practice as described in Article 6.2.1.1. (See Note A-2.4.2.1.(1))
(2)Except as otherwise provided in this Subsection, farm buildings containing a Group G, Division 4 major occupancy need not comply with Sentence (1).
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OBC Div. B 2.4.2.2. Greenhouses
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), where a fuel-fired appliance is installed in a farm building containing a Group G, Division 3 major occupancy, separate combustion air and flue systems shall be provided.
(2)Sentence (1) need not apply where the fuel-fired appliance
(a)is specifically designed as a generator of carbon dioxide for enrichment of the atmosphere in the farm building, and
(b)conforms to CSA B149.1, "Natural gas and propane installation code."
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OBC Div. B 2.4.2.3. Controlled-Atmosphere Storage Areas
(1)This Article applies to controlled-atmosphere storage areas that, during storage periods, contain an atmosphere with an oxygen content less than 19.5% or more than 23% by volume.
(2)During storage periods, controlled-atmosphere storage areas need not comply with Sentence 2.4.2.1.(1).
(3)Prior to a controlled-atmosphere storage area being accessed after a storage period and while the storage area is accessible between storage periods, the ventilation system of the storage area shall
(a)supply outdoor air to the storage area at a rate in accordance with Sentence 2.4.2.1.(1), and
(b)ensure that the atmosphere in the storage area has an oxygen content not less than 19.5% and not more than 23% by volume.
(4)A warning sign shall be provided at each entrance to a controlled-atmosphere storage area in accordance with Sentence 2.14.2.1.(5) of Division B of the NRCC-CONST-56437E 2020, National Fire Code of Canada.
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OBC Div. B 2.4.2.4. Silos and Grain Storage Bins
(1)Where an enclosed tower silo, horizontal silo, or grain storage bin is connected to an adjacent feed room, mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided to remove air from the lowest floor level of the feed room to the outdoors at a rate not less than 3 air changes per hour.
(2)The ventilation system of the farm building in which the feed room referred to in Sentence (1) is located shall be designed to prevent airflow from the feed room to any other part of the floor area of the farm building.
(3)Enclosed horizontal silos shall be ventilated by
(a)openings at roof or eave level with an area not less than 1% of the floor area of the silo that consist of
(i)a continuous ridge opening,
(ii)openings in both gable ends, or
(iii)openings in the eaves on each side of the roof, and
(b)openings at floor level with an area not less than 1% of the floor area of the silo. (See Note A-2.4.2.4.(3)(b)) (See Note A-2.4.2.4.(3))
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OBC Div. B 2.4.2.5. Below-Floor Storage of Liquid Manure (See also Note A-2.2.8.3.)
(1)farm buildings housing livestock with below-floor storage of liquid Manure shall be provided with a ventilation system that supplies outdoor air at a rate that is
(a)sufficient to limit the concentrations of dangerous goods classified as flammable gases to not more than 25% of their lower explosive limit,
(b)sufficient to limit the concentrations of dangerous goods classified as toxic gases to those permitted in the ACGIH's "Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended Practice for Design," and
(c)not less than 2 air changes per hour. (See Note A-2.4.2.5.(1))
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