Fire alarm, firefighting, emergency lighting and floor openings (Large Buildings)

Last updated October 22, 2026

Values this chapter turns on

minimum fire alarm sound level in a floor area: 65 dBA; minimum fire alarm sound level in a floor area
before an unacknowledged alert becomes an alarm: 5 min; before an unacknowledged alert becomes an alarm
max firefighter path from vehicle to building: 45 m; max firefighter path from vehicle to building
building height above which standpipes are required: 14 m; building height above which standpipes are required

This chapter covers the active fire protection systems of Section 3.2.: when a fire alarm system is needed and how it behaves (3.2.4.), what firefighters need to reach and fight a fire (3.2.5.), normal and emergency lighting and their power (3.2.7.), and how openings between storeys are handled (3.2.8.). The Large Buildings syllabus leaves out emergency power for building services (3.2.7.9.), protection of electrical conductors (3.2.7.10.) and integrated systems testing (3.2.9.1.), which belong to Complex Buildings. System design itself sits in NFPA and ULC standards that are not in the Compendium, so focus on the code's triggers and limits.

When a fire alarm system is required (3.2.4.1.)

A building with an automatic sprinkler system needs a fire alarm system, unless the sprinklers are an NFPA 13D residential system or there are fewer than 9 sprinklers fed from the domestic supply (3.2.4.1.). An unsprinklered building needs one if it has any of the listed triggers. Our summary of the main ones:

Trigger in an unsprinklered building	Threshold
Storeys, including those below the first storey	more than 3
Total occupant load	more than 300
Occupant load above or below the first storey	more than 150
School, college or child care facility	more than 40
Licensed beverage establishment or restaurant	more than 150
Low- or medium-hazard industrial, above or below the first storey	more than 75
High-hazard industrial	more than 25
Residential sleeping accommodation	more than 10 persons
Care, or care and treatment	more than 10 persons receiving care

A contained use area or an impeded egress zone also triggers it. Residential buildings escape where not more than 4 suites share a common means of egress or each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility.

Once required, one system serves the whole building and all its major occupancies. A portion of not more than 3 storeys cut off by a 1 h vertical fire separation with no openings may be treated separately, but never for service rooms or storage rooms (3.2.4.2.).

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How the system works

Single-stage or 2-stage (3.2.4.3., 3.2.4.4.). An alert signal is an audible signal to designated persons; an alarm signal goes to occupants (alert signal, alarm signal). Group F, Division 1 and elementary and secondary schools (other than special needs facilities) must be single-stage. Group B must be 2-stage, except Group B, Division 3 buildings of 3 storeys or less, which may use either. Everything else may use either. An unacknowledged alert in a 2-stage system turns into an alarm after 5 min, except in Group B, Division 2.

Silencing (3.2.4.6.). An alarm signal cannot silence automatically for 5 min where no annunciator is required, or 20 min otherwise.

Fire department notification (3.2.4.7.). Required for single-stage systems in Group A buildings over 300 occupants and retirement homes, any system with waterflow devices, and every 2-stage system (on the alert).

Annunciator and zones (3.2.4.8.). An annunciator goes near the entrance facing the street or fire access route. Zones are one per floor area, not more than 2,000 m² in an unsprinklered building, plus separate zones for shafts, air-handling smoke detectors, kitchen hood systems, contained use areas and impeded egress zones. It may be skipped in an unsprinklered building of not more than 3 storeys and 2,000 m² total.

Detectors and manual stations. Smoke detectors go in Group B sleeping rooms and their corridors, Group C public corridors, exit stair shafts and elevator machine rooms, among others (3.2.4.11.). Manual stations go near every principal entrance and every exit in each floor area (3.2.4.16.).

Audibility (3.2.4.18.) and visible signals (3.2.4.19.). Signals must be at least 10 dBA over ambient and at least 65 dBA, and at least 75 dBA in residential sleeping rooms with doors closed. Visible signals are added where noise exceeds 87 dBA, in public corridors of Groups A to E and in other listed places.

Voice communication (3.2.4.23.). A one-way voice system is required where a 2-stage system is installed and the occupant load exceeds 1,000, except in Group B, Division 1 and Group F, Division 1.

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Firefighting access and water (3.2.5.)

Item	Requirement	Source
Access openings, unsprinklered storeys under 25 m	1 per 15 m of street-facing wall; at least 1,100 mm high by 550 mm wide (750 mm with dangerous goods); sill 900 mm max	3.2.5.1.
Basement access, unsprinklered	where a basement is over 25 m in a horizontal dimension	3.2.5.2.
Roof access	buildings over 3 storeys with roofs flatter than 1 in 4	3.2.5.3.
Access route needed	over 3 storeys or over 600 m² building area	3.2.5.4.
Entrance or access opening to route	3 m to 15 m	3.2.5.5.
Firefighter path, vehicle to building	45 m max; with no connection, hydrant route plus path 90 m max	3.2.5.5.
Route design	6 m wide, 12 m centre line radius, 5 m overhead, turnaround if dead end over 90 m	3.2.5.6.
Fire department connection to hydrant	45 m max, unobstructed	3.2.5.15.

Standpipes (3.2.5.8.). Required in buildings over 3 storeys or over 14 m (grade to top storey ceiling). Lower buildings need one only if unsprinklered and larger than the area in Table 3.2.5.8. for their group and storeys. A dry standpipe not connected to water does not count, and every standpipe needs a fire department connection (3.2.5.9.). Hose connections go in exits (3.2.5.10.); 38 mm hose stations go in unsprinklered floor areas, within 5 m of exits (3.2.5.11.).

Sprinklers (3.2.5.12.). NFPA 13 is the default. NFPA 13R is allowed for residential buildings up to 4 storeys under the listed articles and some small care and retirement home cases, and NFPA 13D for houses and some row housing. Even where NFPA 13 or NFPA 13R would allow it, no room or closet in the storey directly below the roof may be left unsprinklered. Balconies and decks deeper than 610 mm need sprinklers in buildings under 3.2.2.48., 3.2.2.51., 3.2.2.57., 3.2.2.60. and 3.2.2.93.

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Lighting and emergency power (3.2.7.)

Space or system	Value	Source
Exits, public corridors and similar, normal lighting	50 lx average, 10 lx minimum	3.2.7.1.
Escalators, elevator machine rooms	100 lx	3.2.7.1.
Emergency lighting in exits and listed areas	10 lx average, 1 lx minimum	3.2.7.3.
Emergency lighting power, Group B or retirement home, or 3.2.2.51./3.2.2.60.	1 h	3.2.7.4.
Emergency lighting power, other buildings outside 3.2.6.	30 min	3.2.7.4.
Fire alarm power	24 h supervisory, then full load for 5 min, 30 min or 1 h by building type	3.2.7.8.

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Mezzanines and floor openings (3.2.8.)

An interconnected floor space is a set of superimposed floor areas whose required fire separation floors are pierced by openings without closures (definition). Under 3.2.8.1., every floor area or mezzanine edge that does not end at an exterior wall, firewall or shaft must end at a vertical fire separation rated as for the floor, or the whole space must be protected under 3.2.8.3. to 3.2.8.8. (sprinklers, vestibules at exits, draft stops at least 500 mm deep, exhaust at 4 air changes per hour, combustible content limits). Group B, Division 2 sleeping floors may never be part of an interconnected floor space.

Article 3.2.8.2. gives the everyday exemptions:

mezzanines serving Group A, Division 1; Group A, Division 3 in a building of 2 storeys or less; or Groups A, C, D, E, F if not over 500 m² and meeting 3.2.1.1.(3) or (4);
two adjacent storeys in a Group B, Division 1 occupancy;
escalator and moving walk openings of not more than 10 m² each in sprinklered buildings with closely spaced sprinklers and draft stops, for Groups A, D and E only;
the first storey plus the storey directly above or below it (not both), if sprinklered (or, where the building area is not more than half the 3.2.2. limit, if the openings serve only stairways, escalators or moving walks), for Groups A (Divisions 1 to 3), D, E and F, Divisions 2 and 3.

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Common traps

Applying 3.2.4.1.(4) to a sprinklered building. Sprinklering alone triggers an alarm under Sentence (1).
Reading the 150 occupant trigger and missing the lower 75 (industrial) or 40 (schools) triggers.
Mixing emergency lighting (10 lx average) with normal lighting (50 lx average).
Assuming a mezzanine exemption works for Group B. It does not.

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
When a fire alarm system is required (3.2.4.1.)	A building with an automatic sprinkler system needs a fire alarm system, unless the sprinklers are an NFPA 13D residential system or there are fewer than 9 sprinklers fed from the…
How the system works	Detectors and manual stations.
Mezzanines and floor openings (3.2.8.)	An interconnected floor space is a set of superimposed floor areas whose required fire separation floors are pierced by openings without closures.

When a fire alarm system is required (3.2.4.1.)
A building with an automatic sprinkler system needs a fire alarm system, unless the sprinklers are an NFPA 13D residential system or there are fewer than 9 sprinklers fed from the…
How the system works
Detectors and manual stations.
Mezzanines and floor openings (3.2.8.)
An interconnected floor space is a set of superimposed floor areas whose required fire separation floors are pierced by openings without closures.

Usual exam traps

Applying 3.2.4.1.(4) to a sprinklered building. Sprinklering alone triggers an alarm under Sentence (1).
Reading the 150 occupant trigger and missing the lower 75 (industrial) or 40 (schools) triggers.
Mixing emergency lighting (10 lx average) with normal lighting (50 lx average).
Assuming a mezzanine exemption works for Group B. It does not.

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Questions on Fire alarm, firefighting, emergency lighting and floor openings (3.2.4, 3.2.5, 3.2.7 to 3.2.9), 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. B 3.2.4.1. Determination of Requirement for a Fire Alarm System
(1)Except as permitted in Sentences (2) and (3), a fire alarm system shall be installed in buildings in which an automatic sprinkler system is installed.
(2)Buildings in which a sprinkler system is installed in accordance with NFPA 13D, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes," need not comply with Sentence (1).
(3)Buildings that contain fewer than 9 sprinklers conforming to Sentence 3.2.5.12.(4) need not comply with Sentence (1).
(4)Except as permitted by Sentences (5), (6) and 3.2.4.2.(4), a fire alarm system shall be installed in a building that is not sprinklered throughout and that contains
(a)a contained use area,
(b)an impeded egress zone,
(c)more than 3 storeys, including storeys below the first storey,
(d)a total occupant load more than 300, other than in open air seating areas,
(e)an occupant load more than 150 above or below the first storey, other than in open air seating areas,
(f)a school, college or child care facility, including a day care facility, with an occupant load more than 40,
(g)a licensed beverage establishment or a licenced restaurant, with an occupant load more than 150,
(h)a low-hazard industrial occupancy with an occupant load more than 75 above or below the first storey,
(i)a medium-hazard industrial occupancy with an occupant load more than 75 above or below the first storey,
(j)a residential occupancy with sleeping accommodation for more than 10 persons,
(k)a high-hazard industrial occupancy with an occupant load more than 25,
(l)an occupant load more than 300 below an open air seating area,
(m)a care and treatment occupancy for more than 10 persons receiving care or treatment, or
(n)a care occupancy for more than 10 persons receiving care.
(4.1)A fire alarm system is not required in a hotel 3 storeys or less in building height provided each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level.
(5)A fire alarm system is not required in a residential occupancy that is not sprinklered, where
(a)not more than 4 suites share a common means of egress, or
(b)each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level.
(6)A fire alarm system is not required in a storage garage conforming to Article 3.2.2.92. that is contained in a building that is not sprinklered provided there are no other occupancies in the building.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.1. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.2. Continuity of Fire Alarm System
(1)Except as permitted by Sentence (6), if there are openings through a firewall, other than those for piping, tubing, wiring and totally enclosed noncombustible raceways, the requirements in this Subsection shall apply to the floor areas on both sides of the firewall as if they were in the same building.
(2)Except as permitted by Sentence (4), if a building contains more than one major occupancy and a fire alarm system is required, a single system shall serve all occupancies.
(3)Except as permitted by Sentence (4), if a fire alarm system is required in any portion of a building, it shall be installed throughout the building.
(4)Except as required by Sentence (5), the requirements in this Subsection are permitted to be applied to each portion of a building not more than 3 storeys in building height, in which a vertical fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h separates the portion from the remainder of the building as if it were a separate building, provided there are no openings through the fire separation, other than those for piping, tubing, wiring and totally enclosed noncombustible raceways.
(5)The permission in Sentence (4) to consider separated portions of a building as separate buildings does not apply to service rooms and storage rooms.
(6)Buildings interconnected by walkways permitted in Articles 3.2.3.19. and 3.2.3.20. or by vestibules provided in conformance with Article 3.2.6.3. shall be treated as separate buildings for the purpose of fire alarm installation required by this Subsection.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.2. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.3. Types of Fire Alarm Systems
(1)A fire alarm system shall be
(a)a single-stage system in a Group F, Division 1 occupancy,
(b)except as permitted in Clause (c), a 2-stage system in a Group B occupancy,
(c)a single- or 2-stage system in a Group B, Division 3 occupancy where the building is 3 storeys or less in building height,
(d)a single-stage system in elementary and secondary schools, except for a special needs facility, and
(e)a single- or 2-stage system in all other cases.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.3. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.4. Description of Fire Alarm Systems
(1)A single-stage fire alarm system shall, upon the operation of any manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector, cause an alarm signal to sound on all audible signal devices in the system. (See Note A-3.2.4.4.(1))
(2)A 2-stage fire alarm system shall
(a)cause an alert signal to sound upon the operation of any manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector,
(b)except for a Group B, Division 2 occupancy, automatically cause an alarm signal to sound if the alert signal is not acknowledged within 5 min of its initiation,
(c)have manual stations, each of which is equipped so that the use of a key or other similar device causes an alarm signal to sound that continues to sound upon removal of the key or similar device from the manual station, and (See Note A-3.2.4.4.(2)(c))
(d)in a building containing a hotel,
(i)cause an alarm signal to sound in the initiating fire zone in the hotel, and
(ii)cause an alert signal to sound throughout the hotel and such parts of the building as is necessary to alert hotel staff. (See Note A-3.2.4.4.(2))
(3)A 2-stage fire alarm system is permitted to be zone coded so that, upon the operation of any manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector,
(a)a coded alert signal is sounded indicating the zone of alarm initiation,
(b)the coded alert signal is repeated in its entirety not less than 4 times, and
(c)a continuous alert signal is sounded upon completion of the coded signals referred to in Clause (b) and Sentence (4).
(4)If a second manual station, waterflow detecting device, or fire detector is operated in a fire alarm system with zone coding as permitted by Sentence (3), in a zone other than that for which the first alert signal was sounded, the coded alert signal for the first zone shall be completed before the coded alert signal for the second zone is repeated not less than 4 times.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Alert signal
Alert signal means an audible signal to advise designated persons of a fire emergency.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Alarm signal
Alarm signal means an audible signal transmitted throughout a zone or zones or throughout a building to advise occupants that a fire emergency exists.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.6. Silencing of Alarm Signals
(1)Except as permitted by Sentence (3), a fire alarm system shall 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
(a)5 min for a building not required to be equipped with an annunciator, and
(b)20 min for any other building.
(2)Except as permitted by Sentences 3.2.4.18.(8) and Sentences 3.2.4.22.(2) and (3), a fire alarm system shall not incorporate manual silencing switches other than those installed inside the fire alarm control unit. (See Note A-3.2.4.6.(2))
(3)Except as provided by Clause 3.2.4.22.(3)(a), in a care and treatment occupancy an alert signal is permitted to be silenced automatically after 1 min.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.6. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.7. Signals to Fire Department
(1)A single-stage fire alarm system shall be designed to notify the fire department in conformance with Sentence (4) that an alarm signal has been initiated in
(a)a building of a Group A occupancy having an occupant load more than 300, or
(b)a retirement home.
(2)A fire alarm system that includes waterflow indicating devices shall be designed to notify the fire department in conformance with Sentence (4), when an alarm is initiated.
(3)A 2-stage fire alarm system shall be designed to notify the fire department, in conformance with Sentence (4), that an alert signal has been initiated.
(4)Notification of the fire department, as required by Sentences (1) to (3), shall be provided in conformance with CAN/ULC-S561, "Standard for Installation and Services for Fire Signal Receiving Centres and Systems." (See Note A-3.2.4.7.(4))
(5)Where a single-stage fire alarm system is installed in a building that is not sprinklered throughout and Sentence (1) does not apply, a legible notice that is not easily removed shall be affixed to the wall near each manual station stating
(a)that the fire department is to be notified in the event of a fire emergency, and
(b)the emergency telephone number for the municipality or for the fire department. (See Note A-3.2.4.7.(5)(b))
(6)Helicopter landing areas on roofs shall be provided with telephone extensions or means to notify the fire department.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.7. in the code viewer

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OBC Div. B 3.2.4.8. Annunciator and Zone Indication
(1)Except as permitted by Sentences (3) to (5), an annunciator shall be installed in close proximity to a building entrance that faces a street or an access route for fire department vehicles that complies with Sentence 3.2.5.5.(1).
(2)Except as permitted by Sentence (6), the annunciator required by Sentence (1) shall have separate zone indication of the actuation of the alarm initiating devices in each
(a)floor area so that the area of coverage for each zone in a building that is not sprinklered is not more than 2,000 m²,
(b)floor area so that the area of coverage for each zone is neither
(i)more than one storey, nor
(ii)more than the system area limits as specified in NFPA 13, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems,"
(c)shaft required to be equipped with fire detectors,
(d)air-handling system required to be equipped with smoke detectors,
(e)fire extinguishing system required by NFPA 96, "Standard for Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations,"
(f)contained use area,
(g)impeded egress zone, and
(h)fire compartment required by Sentence 3.3.3.5.(2) or Sentence 3.3.4.11.(2).(See Note A-3.2.4.8.(2))
(3)An annunciator need not be provided for a fire alarm system if not more than one zone indicator is required in Sentence (2).
(4)If an annunciator is not installed as part of a fire alarm system in conformance with Sentence (1), a visible and audible trouble signal device shall be provided inside the main entrance of the building.
(5)The requirements in Sentence (1) are waived in a building
(a)in which an automatic sprinkler system is not installed,
(b)that has an aggregate area for all storeys of not more than 2,000 m², and
(c)that is not more than 3 storeys in building height.
(6)The area limits of Clause (2)(a) are waived for an interior undivided open space used as an arena, a rink or a swimming pool provided that other spaces in the building that are separated from the open space are individually zoned in accordance with the requirements of Sentence (2).
(7)A fire alarm control unit installed in close proximity to a building entrance that faces a street or an access route for fire department vehicles that complies with Sentence 3.2.5.5.(1), is deemed to satisfy the requirement for an annunciator provided all indicators required for an annunciator or trouble signal device are included on the control unit. (See Note A-3.2.4.8.(7))
(8)In a building containing a hotel in which a trouble signal sounding device has a silencing switch, a trouble light shall be installed in
(a)the main reception area serving the hotel, or
(b)another continually-supervised location.
(9)In a long-term care home, a remote audiovisual fire alarm trouble signal shall be located at the main nursing station.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.8. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.11. Smoke and Heat Detectors
(1)If a fire alarm system is installed, smoke detectors shall be installed in
(a)each sleeping room and each corridor serving as part of a means of egress from sleeping rooms in portions of a building classified as Group B major occupancy,
(b)each room in a contained use area and corridors serving those rooms,
(c)each corridor in portions of a building classified as Group A, Division 1 major occupancy,
(d)each public corridor in portions of a building classified as Group C major occupancy,
(e)each exit stair shaft, other than those serving only a Group A, Division 4 major occupancy or an open storage garage.
(f)the vicinity of draft stops required by Article 3.2.8.6.,
(g)each elevator machine room, and
(h)each corridor serving classrooms in elementary and secondary schools.(See Note A-3.2.4.11.(1))
(2)In a floor area containing a hotel, where a fire alarm system is installed and the floor area is not sprinklered, heat detectors shall be installed in every room in a suite and in every room not located in a suite other than washrooms within a suite, saunas, refrigerated areas and swimming pools.
(3)Smoke detectors required in sleeping rooms of a care, care and treatment or detention occupancy shall, upon actuation, provide an audible and visible signal to staff serving those rooms so that the room or location containing the smoke detector can be easily identified. (See Note A-3.2.4.11.(3))
(4)Smoke detectors required in Clause (1)(g) shall, upon actuation, recall the elevators served by the elevator machine room in which the smoke detector is installed.
(5)Except as permitted in Sentences (6) and (7), smoke detectors installed in buildings required to be equipped with a fire alarm system shall be located near the entrance to walkways described in Articles 3.2.3.19. and 3.2.3.20. or vestibules provided in conformance with Article 3.2.6.3.
(6)Smoke detectors installed at the entrance to the walkways in conformance with Article 3.1.8.14. shall be deemed to meet the requirements of Sentence (5).
(7)Smoke detectors required by Sentence (5) may be replaced with fire detectors in Group F occupancies where the smoke detectors may be subjected to false alarms due to the activities within the building.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.11. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.16. Manual Stations
(1)Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), where a fire alarm system is installed, a manual station shall be installed in every floor area near
(a)every principal entrance to the building, and
(b)every exit. (See Note A-3.2.4.16.(1))
(2)In a building that is sprinklered throughout, a manual station is not required at an exterior egress doorway from a suite that does not lead to an interior shared means of egress in a hotel not more than 3 storeys in building height, provided each suite is served by an exterior exit facility leading directly to ground level.
(3)In a building that is sprinklered throughout, a manual station is not required at an exterior egress doorway from a dwelling unit that does not lead to an interior shared means of egress in a building not more than 3 storeys in building height containing only dwelling units, provided each dwelling unit is served by an exterior exit facility leading directly to ground level.
(4)In a building referred to in Sentence (2) or (3), manual stations shall be installed near doorways leading from shared interior corridors to the exterior.
(5)Where a fire alarm system is installed, a manually operated fire alarm station shall be installed on the roof at each exit from a helicopter landing area.
(6)In a building containing a hotel, a manual station shall be installed in the main reception area serving the hotel.
(7)Except as permitted by Sentence (3), in Group C apartment buildings other than retirement homes, if a manual station is not installed on a floor area in accordance with Sentence (1) or (4),
(a)a manual station shall be installed in every dwelling unit in the floor area near each egress door leading from the dwelling unit,
(b)smoke detectors shall be installed in the floor area in public corridors and stairwells, and
(c)fire detectors shall be installed in the floor area in all common public areas and in rooms not located within dwelling units.
(8)In floor areas where the manual stations are located in dwelling units, a legible sign stating fire alarm manual stations located in apartment units shall be posted near every exit in a public corridor.
(9)Key switch activated manual stations are permitted in an impeded egress zone and a contained use area in Group B, Division 1 and 2 occupancies.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.16. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.18. Audibility of Alarm Systems
(1)Except as permitted by Sentence 3.2.4.19.(2) and except as required by Clause 3.2.4.4.(2)(d), audible signal devices forming part of a fire alarm system shall be installed in a building so that
(a)alarm signals are clearly audible throughout the floor area, and
(b)alert signals are clearly audible in continuously staffed locations, and where there are no continuously staffed locations, throughout the floor area. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(1))
(2)The sound pattern of an alarm signal shall conform to the temporal pattern defined in Clause 4.2 of ISO 8201, "Acoustics Audible emergency evacuation signal." (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(2))
(3)The sound patterns of alert signals shall be significantly different from the temporal patterns of alarm signals. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(3))
(4)In all normally occupied spaces, the fire alarm signal sound pressure level
(a)shall be not more than 110 dBA when measured at a distance of 3 m from the device, or
(b)is permitted to be more than 100 dBA provided the sound pressure level measured 2,000 mm above floor level is not more than 100 dBA. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(4))
(5)The sound pressure level in a sleeping room from a fire alarm audible signal device shall be not less than 75 dBA in a building of residential occupancy when any intervening doors between the device and the sleeping room are closed. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(5))
(6)Audible signal devices in sleeping rooms in a building of residential or care occupancy shall emit a low frequency signal. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(6))
(7)Except as required by Sentence (5), the sound pressure level from a fire alarm system's audible signal device within a floor area shall be not less than 10 dBA above the ambient noise level and not less than 65 dBA, when any intervening doors between the device and the rest of the floor area are closed.
(8)Except as permitted by Sentence (12), audible signal devices located within a dwelling unit shall include a means for them to be manually silenced for a period of not more than 10 min, after which time the devices shall restore themselves to normal operation. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(8))
(9)Audible signal devices within a dwelling unit or a suite of residential occupancy shall be connected to the fire alarm system
(a)in a manner such that a single open circuit at one device will not impair the operation of other audible signal devices on that same circuit that serve the other dwelling units or suites of residential occupancy, or
(b)on separate signal circuits that are not connected to the devices in any other dwelling unit, public corridor or suite of residential occupancy. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(9) and (10))
(10)In a building or part thereof classified as a residential occupancy,
(a)separate circuits shall be provided for audible signal devices on each floor area, and
(b)audible signal devices within dwelling units or suites of residential occupancy shall be wired on separate signal circuits from those not within suites of residential occupancy or dwelling units. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(9) and (10))
(11)Audible signal devices shall be installed in a service space referred to in Sentence 3.2.1.1.(8) and shall be connected to the fire alarm system.
(12)Audible signal devices within dwelling units that are wired on separate signal circuits in accordance with Clause (10)(b) need not include a means for manual signal silencing as required by Sentence (8), provided the fire alarm system includes a provision for the automatic signal silence within dwelling units, where
(a)the automatic signal silence cannot occur within the first 60 s of operation or within the zone of initiation,
(b)a subsequent alarm elsewhere in the building will reactuate the silenced audible signal devices within dwelling units,
(c)after a period of not more than 10 min, the silenced audible signal devices will be restored to continuous audible signal if the alarm is not acknowledged, and
(d)the voice communication systems referred to in Article 3.2.4.22. and 3.2.4.23. has a provision to override the automatic signal silence to allow the transmission of voice messages through silenced audible signal device circuits that serve the dwelling units. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(12))
(13)If a 2-stage fire alarm system has been installed with an automatic signal silence as described in Sentence (12), the system shall be designed so that any silenced audible signal devices serving dwelling units are reactuated whenever an alarm signal is required to be transmitted as part of the second stage. (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(8))
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OBC Div. B 3.2.4.19. Visible Signals
(1)Except as permitted by Sentence (4), where a fire alarm system is installed, visible signal devices shall be installed in addition to alarm signal devices
(a)in a building or portions thereof intended for use primarily by persons with a hearing impairment,
(b)in assembly occupancies in which music and other sounds associated with performances could exceed 100 dBA,
(c)in any floor area in which the ambient noise level is more than 87 dBA,
(d)in any floor area in which the occupants
(i)use ear protection devices,
(ii)are located in an audiometric booth, or
(iii)are located in sound-insulating enclosures,
(e)in public corridors serving a Group A, B, C, D or E major occupancy,
(f)in a corridor used by the public and in a floor area or part of a floor area where the public may congregate in a Group A occupancy,
(g)in not less than 10% of the suites of a hotel or motel, (See Note A-3.2.4.19.(1)(g))
(h)in washrooms for public use described in Sentence 3.8.2.3.(2), (3), (4) or (6), and
(i)in living spaces in a suite of residential occupancy in a Group C major occupancy apartment building.
(2)Visible signal devices are permitted to be installed in lieu of audible signal devices in the compartments referred to in Article 3.3.3.6. (See Note A-3.2.4.19.(2))
(3)Visible signal devices required by Sentence (1) 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))
(4)Visible signal devices required by Clauses (1)(e) and (f) are not required in
(a)a classroom, and
(b)a Group B, Division 3 occupancy that contains sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons and not more than six occupants require assistance in evacuation in case of an emergency.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.4.23. One-Way Voice Communication Systems
(1)Except for Group B, Division 1 and Group F, Division 1 major occupancies, where a fire alarm system is required under Subsection 3.2.4., a one-way voice communication system shall be installed in buildings where a 2-stage fire alarm system is installed and whose occupant load exceeds 1,000.
(2)The one-way voice communication system required by Sentence (1) shall consist of loudspeakers that are
(a)operated from the central alarm and control facility or, in the absence of a central alarm and control facility, from a designated area, and
(b)except in elevator cars, designed and located so that transmitted messages are audible and intelligible in all parts of the building. (See Note A-3.2.4.22.(1)(b))
(3)Where the facility is not equipped with staff trained to provide instructions over the loudspeakers, a pre-recorded message shall be provided.
(4)The voice communication system required by Sentence (1) shall meet the silencing and transmission requirements of Sentences 3.2.4.22.(2) to (4) and (6).
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.1. Access to Above Grade Storeys
(1)Except for storeys below the first storey, direct access for firefighting shall be provided from the outdoors to every storey that is not sprinklered throughout and whose floor level is less than 25 m above grade, by at least one unobstructed window or access panel for each 15 m of wall in each wall required to face a street by Subsection 3.2.2.
(2)An opening for access required by Sentence (1) shall
(a)have a sill no higher than 900 mm above the inside floor, and
(b)be not less than 1,100 mm high by not less than
(i)550 mm wide for a building not designed for the storage or use of dangerous goods, or
(ii)750 mm wide for a building designed for the storage or use of dangerous goods.
(3)Access panels above the first storey shall be readily openable from both inside and outside, or the opening shall be glazed with plain glass.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.2. Access to Basements
(1)Direct access from at least one street shall be provided from the outdoors in a building that is not sprinklered to each basement having a horizontal dimension more than 25 m.
(2)The access required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be provided by
(a)doors, windows or other means that provide an opening not less than 1,100 mm high and 550 mm wide, with a sill no higher than 900 mm above the inside floor, or
(b)an interior stairway immediately accessible from the outdoors.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.3. Roof Access
(1)On a building more than 3 storeys in building height where the slope of the roof is less than 1 in 4, all main roof areas shall be provided with direct access from the floor areas immediately below, either by
(a)a stairway, or
(b)a hatch not less than 550 mm by 900 mm with a fixed ladder.
(2)Clearance and access around roof signs or other obstructions shall provide
(a)a passage not less than 900 mm wide by 1,800 mm high, clear of all obstructions except for necessary horizontal supports not more than 600 mm above the roof surface,
(i)around every roof sign, and
(ii)through every roof sign at locations not more than 15 m apart, and
(b)a clearance of not less than 1,200 mm between any portion of a roof sign and any opening in the exterior wall face or roof of the building in which it is erected.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.4. Access Routes
(1)A building which is more than 3 storeys in building height or more than 600 m² in building area shall be provided with access routes for fire department vehicles
(a)to the building face having a principal entrance, and
(b)to each building face having access openings for firefighting as required by Articles 3.2.5.1. and 3.2.5.2. (See Note A-3.2.5.4.(1))
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.5. Location of Access Routes
(1)Access routes required by Article 3.2.5.4. shall be located so that the principal entrance and every access opening required by Articles 3.2.5.1. and 3.2.5.2. are located not less than 3 m and not more than 15 m from the closest portion of the access route required for fire department use, measured horizontally from the face of the building.
(2)Access routes shall be provided to a building so that
(a)for a building provided with a fire department connection, a fire department pumper vehicle can be located adjacent to the hydrants referred to in Article 3.2.5.15.,
(b)for a building not provided with a fire department connection, a fire department pumper vehicle can be located so that the length of the access route from a hydrant to the vehicle plus the unobstructed path of travel for the firefighter from the vehicle to the building is not more than 90 m, and
(c)the unobstructed path of travel for the firefighter from the vehicle to the building is not more than 45 m.
(3)The unobstructed path of travel for the firefighter required by Sentence (2) from the vehicle to the building shall be measured from the vehicle to the fire department connection provided for the building, except that if no fire department connection is provided, the path of travel shall be measured to the principal entrance of the building.
(4)If a portion of a building is completely cut off from the remainder of the building so that there is no access to the remainder of the building, the access routes required by Sentence (2) shall be located so that the unobstructed path of travel from the vehicle to one entrance of each portion of the building is not more than 45 m.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.6. Access Route Design
(1)A portion of a roadway or yard provided as a required access route for fire department use shall
(a)have a clear width not less than 6 m, unless it can be shown that lesser widths are satisfactory,
(b)have a centre line radius not less than 12 m,
(c)have an overhead clearance not less than 5 m,
(d)have a change of gradient not more than 1 in 12.5 over a minimum distance of 15 m,
(e)be designed to support the expected loads imposed by firefighting equipment and be surfaced with concrete, asphalt or other material designed to permit accessibility under all climatic conditions,
(f)have turnaround facilities for any dead-end portion of the access route more than 90 m long, and
(g)be connected with a public thoroughfare. (See Note A-3.2.5.6.(1))
(2)For buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.51. or 3.2.2.60., no portion of the access route described in Sentence 3.2.2.10.(3) shall be more than 20 m below the uppermost floor level.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.15. Fire Department Connections
(1)The fire department connection for a standpipe system shall be located so that the distance from the fire department connection to a hydrant is not more than 45 m and is unobstructed.
(2)The fire department connection for an automatic sprinkler system shall be located so that the distance from the fire department connection to a hydrant is not more than 45 m and is unobstructed.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.8. Standpipe Systems
(1)Except as permitted by Sentence (2), a standpipe system shall be installed in a building that is
(a)more than 3 storeys in building height,
(b)more than 14 m high measured between grade and the ceiling of the top storey, or
(c)not more than 14 m high measured between grade and the ceiling of the top storey but has a building area exceeding the area shown in Table 3.2.5.8. for the applicable building height unless the building is sprinklered throughout.
(2)A standpipe system need not be installed in a storage garage conforming to Article 3.2.2.92., provided the building is not more than 15 m high.
(3)A standpipe system is not required to be installed in a building classified as Group C major occupancy,
(a)that is not more than 4 storeys above grade,
(b)that does not contain a public corridor or other common areas,
(c)where each dwelling unit,
(i)is completely cut off from the remainder of the building so that there is no access to the remainder of the building.
(ii)has direct access to its interior by means of an exterior doorway located not more than 1,500 mm above or below adjacent finished ground level, and
(d)that conforms to the requirements of Article 3.2.2.50. or Article 3.2.2.52.
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OBC Div. B Table 3.2.5.8. Building Limits without Standpipe Systems
Table 3.2.5.8 — Building Limits without Standpipe Systems Forming Part of Sentence 3.2.5.8.(1) Occupancy Classification | Building Area, m² — 1 storey | Building Area, m² — 2 storeys | Building Area, m² — 3 storeys Group A | 2,500 | 2,000 | 1,500 Group C | 2,000 | 1,500 | 1,000 Group D | 4,000 | 3,000 | 2,000 Group F, Division 2 | 1,500 | 1,500 | 1,000 Group F, Division 3 | 3,000 | 2,000 | 1,000
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.9. Standpipe System Design
(1)Except as provided in Sentences (2) to (5), Articles 3.2.5.10. and 3.2.5.11., and Sentence 3.2.4.9.(2), the design, construction, installation and testing of a standpipe system shall conform to NFPA 14, "Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems."
(2)A dry standpipe that is not connected to a water supply shall not be considered as fulfilling the requirements of this Article.
(3)If more than one standpipe is provided, the total water supply need not be more than 30 L/s.
(4)The residual water pressure at the design flow rate at the topmost hose connection of a standpipe system that is required to be installed in a building is permitted to be less than 690 kPa provided
(a)the building is sprinklered throughout,
(b)the water supply at the base of the sprinkler riser is capable of meeting, without a fire pump, the design flow rate and pressure demand of the sprinkler system, including the inside and outside hose allowance, and
(c)fire protection equipment is available to deliver, by means of the fire department connection, the full demand flow rate at a residual water pressure of 690 kPa at the topmost hose connection of the standpipe system. (See Note A-3.2.5.9.(4)(c))
(5)A fire department connection shall be provided for every standpipe system.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.10. Hose Connections
(1)Hose connections shall be located in exits, in accordance with NFPA 14, "Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems."
(2)Hose connections are not required within a floor area.
(3)Hose connections shall be provided with sufficient clearance to permit the use of a standard fire department hose key.
(4)Except as permitted by Sentence (5), 64 mm diam hose connections shall be installed in a standpipe system.
(5)Hose connections for 64 mm diam hose are not required in a building that is not more than 25 m high, measured between grade and the ceiling level of the top storey and in which an automatic sprinkler system is not installed.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.11. Hose Stations
(1)Hose stations for 38 mm diam hose shall be installed for a standpipe system in a building that is not sprinklered throughout.
(2)Hose stations for a 38 mm diam hose shall be installed for a standpipe system within every floor area that is not sprinklered throughout. (See Note A-3.2.5.11.(2))
(3)Hose stations shall be located in the floor area within 5 m of exits and at other locations to provide coverage of the entire floor area.
(4)A hose station located on one side of a horizontal exit shall be considered to serve only the floor area on that side of the horizontal exit.
(5)A hose cabinet shall be located so that its door, when fully opened, will not obstruct the required width of a means of egress.
(6)Where a building or part thereof is used as a distillery and the building is sprinklered in conformance with Article 3.2.5.12., small hose (38 mm) stations are permitted to be supplied from interior sprinkler piping.
(7)Where a hose station is provided in grain handling and storage facilities in which combustible dusts are produced in quantities or concentrations that create an explosion or fire hazard, fog and fine spray nozzles shall be used instead of nozzles that discharge a solid stream of water to prevent combustible dusts from being raised into suspension.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.5.12. Automatic Sprinkler Systems
(1)Except as provided by Sentences (2) to (4) and (9), an automatic sprinkler system shall be designed, constructed, installed and tested in conformance with NFPA 13, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems." (See Note A-3.2.5.12.(1))
(2)Instead of the requirements of Sentence (1), NFPA 13R, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Low-Rise Residential Occupancies," is permitted to be used for the design, construction, installation and testing of an automatic sprinkler system installed
(a)in a building of residential occupancy throughout that is not more than 4 storeys in building height and conforms to Article 3.2.2.47., 3.2.2.49., 3.2.2.51., 3.2.2.52. or 3.2.2.55.,
(b)in a building of Group B, Division 3 occupancy that contains sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons and not more than six occupants require assistance in evacuation in case of an emergency,
(c)in a building that contains a retirement home constructed in accordance with Article 3.2.2.55D., or
(d)in a building that contains a retirement home constructed in accordance with Article 3.2.2.55E., where the fire separation required by Sentence 3.3.4.11.(2) on the storey immediately below the roof assembly is continuous to the underside of the roof deck. (See Note A-3.2.5.12.(2))
(3)Instead of the requirements of Sentence (1), NFPA 13D, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in Oneand Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes," is permitted to be used for the design, construction and installation of an automatic sprinkler system installed
(a)in a building of residential occupancy throughout that contains not more than two dwelling units,
(b)reserved,
(c)in a building of residential occupancy throughout that contains more than two dwelling units, provided
(i)except for a secondary suite, no dwelling unit is located above another dwelling unit,
(ii)all suites are separated by a vertical fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 h that provides continuous protection from the top of the footing to the underside of the roof deck, with any space between the top of the wall and the roof deck tightly filled with mineral wool or noncombustible material,
(iii)each dwelling unit has its own sprinkler water supply provided in accordance with NFPA 13D, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes,"
(iv)a passive purge sprinkler system design is used as described in NFPA 13D, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes," and
(v)where the sprinkler system is taken into consideration for the reduction of limiting distance, all rooms, including closets, bathrooms and attached garages, that adjoin an exposing building face are sprinklered, notwithstanding any exemption stated in NFPA 13D, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes." (See Note A-3.2.5.12.(2))
(4)If a building contains fewer than 9 sprinklers, the water supply for these sprinklers is permitted to be supplied from the domestic water system for the building provided the required flow for the sprinklers can be met by the domestic system.
(5)If a water supply serves both an automatic sprinkler system and a system serving other equipment, control valves shall be provided so that either system can be shut off independently.
(6)Notwithstanding the requirements of the standards referenced in Sentences (1) and (2) for the installation of automatic sprinkler systems, sprinklers shall not be omitted in any room or closet in the storey immediately below a roof assembly. (See Note A-3.2.5.12.(6))
(7)Notwithstanding the requirements of the standards referenced in Sentences (1) and (2) regarding the installation of automatic sprinkler systems, in buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.48., 3.2.2.51., 3.2.2.57., 3.2.2.60. or 3.2.2.93., sprinklers shall be provided for all balconies and decks, other than,
(a)balconies or decks that are not more than 610 mm in depth measured perpendicular to the exterior wall of the building, or
(b)decks on the uppermost roof of the building. (See Note A-3.2.5.12.(7))
(8)Sprinklers in elevator machine rooms shall have a temperature rating not less than that required for an intermediate temperature classification and shall be protected against physical damage. (See Note A-3.2.5.12.(8))
(9)Except as provided in Subsection 3.2.8., closely spaced sprinklers and associated draft stops need not be installed around floor openings in conformance with NFPA 13, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems."
(10)The sprinkler system described in Sentence (3) shall be provided with a minimum 20 min water supply when installed in a retirement home.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.7.1. Minimum Lighting Requirements
(1)An exit, a public corridor, a corridor providing access to exit for the public, a corridor serving patients or residents in a Group B, Division 2 or 3 occupancy, a corridor serving classrooms, an electrical equipment room, a transformer vault and a hoistway pit shall be equipped to provide illumination to an average level not less than 50 lx at floor or tread level and at all points such as angles and intersections at changes of level where there are stairs or ramps.
(2)The minimum level of the illumination required by Sentence (1) shall be 10 lx.
(3)Rooms and spaces used by the public shall be equipped to provide illumination as described in Sentences (4) to (7) and Article 9.34.2.7.
(4)The minimum level of illumination over the entire length of escalators and moving walks shall be not less than 100 lx at the level of the treads and walking surfaces.
(5)Except as provided in Sentence (6) and except for light switches and internally illuminated controls, the minimum level of illumination at controls required by Article 3.8.1.5. shall be not less than 100 lx.
(6)Where visual information is provided at controls referred to in Sentence (5), the minimum level of illumination at the controls shall be not less than 200 lx, except where the visual information is internally illuminated.
(7)Except for internally illuminated signs, the minimum level of illumination at signs displaying visual information required by Clauses 3.4.6.10.(5)(b) and 3.4.6.16.(5)(g), Sentence 3.4.6.18.(3), Clause 3.4.6.18.(4)(a) and Articles 3.4.6.19. and 3.8.3.1. shall be not less than 200 lx.
(8)Lighting outlets in a building of residential occupancy shall be provided in conformance with Subsection 9.34.2.
(9)Elevator machine rooms shall be equipped to provide illumination to an average level of not less than 100 lx at floor level.
(10)Every place of assembly intended for the viewing of motion pictures or the performing arts, shall be equipped to provide an average level of illumination at floor level in the aisles of not less than 2 lx during the viewing.
(11)Every area where food is intended to be processed, prepared or manufactured and where equipment or utensils are intended to be cleaned shall be equipped to provide illumination to a level of not less than 500 lx measured at the floor level.
(12)Every storage room, dressing room, sanitary facility, service area and corridor serving the areas in Sentence (11) shall be equipped to provide illumination to a level of not less than 300 lx measured at the floor level.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.7.3. Emergency Lighting
(1)Emergency lighting shall be provided to an average level of illumination not less than 10 lx at floor or tread level in
(a)exits,
(b)principal routes providing access to exit in open floor areas and in service rooms,
(c)corridors used by the public,
(d)corridors serving patients' or residents' sleeping rooms in a Group B, Division 2 or 3 occupancy,
(e)reserved
(f)corridors serving classrooms,
(g)underground walkways,
(h)public corridors,
(i)floor areas or parts of thereof where the public may congregate
(i)in Group A, Division 1 occupancies, or
(ii)in Group A, Divisions 2 and 3 occupancies having an occupant load of 60 or more,
(j)floor areas or parts of thereof in day care centres where persons are cared for,
(k)food preparation areas in commercial kitchens,
(l)washrooms with fixtures for public use,
(m)locations where doors are equipped with an electromagnetic lock as described in Clauses 3.4.6.16.(5)(k),
(n)universal washrooms required by Article 3.8.3.12. and universal shower rooms required by Article 3.8.3.13.,
(o)principal routes providing access to exit in a floor area that is not subdivided into rooms or suites of rooms served by corridors in a business and personal services occupancy, a mercantile occupancy or an industrial occupancy, and
(p)internal corridors or aisles serving as principal routes to exits in a business and personal services occupancy, a mercantile occupancy or an industrial occupancy that is subdivided into rooms or suites of rooms, and is not served by a public corridor.
(2)Emergency lighting to provide an average level of illumination of not less than 10 lx at floor or catwalk level shall be included
(a)in a service space referred to in Sentence 3.2.1.1.(8), and
(b)on a shelf and rack storage system, in locations described in Sentence 3.16.1.5.(2).
(3)The minimum value of the illumination required by Sentences (1) and (2) shall not be less than 1 lx.
(4)In addition to the requirements of Sentences (1) to (3), the installation of battery-operated emergency lighting in health care facilities shall conform to the appropriate requirements of CSA Z32, "Electrical safety and essential electrical systems in health care facilities."
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OBC Div. B 3.2.7.4. Emergency Power for Lighting
(1)An emergency power supply shall be
(a)provided to maintain the emergency lighting required by this Subsection 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 building is interrupted, and
(b)so designed and installed that upon failure of the regular power it will assume the electrical load automatically for a period of
(i)2 h for a building within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6.,
(ii)1 h for a building of Group B major occupancy classification that is not within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6.,
(iii)(ii.1) 1 h for a building that contains a Group C major occupancy retirement home and that is not within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6.,
(iv)1 h for a building within the scope of Article 3.2.2.51. or 3.2.2.60, and
(v)30 min for a building of any other occupancy. (See Note A-3.2.7.4.(1))
(2)If self-contained emergency lighting units are used, they shall conform to CSA C22.2 No. 141, "Emergency lighting equipment."
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OBC Div. B 3.2.7.8. Emergency Power for Fire Alarm Systems
(1)Fire alarm systems, including those incorporating a voice communication system, shall be provided with an emergency power supply conforming to Sentences (2) to (4).
(2)The emergency power supply required by Sentence (1) shall be supplied from
(a)a generator,
(b)batteries, or
(c)a combination thereof.
(3)The emergency power supply required by Sentence (1) shall be capable of providing
(a)supervisory power for not less than 24 h, and
(b)immediately following that period, emergency power under full load for not less than
(i)2 h for a building within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6.,
(ii)1 h for a building classified as Group B major occupancy that is not within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6.,
(iii)(ii.1) 1 h for a building that contains a Group C major occupancy retirement home and that is not within the scope of Subsection 3.2.6.,
(iv)1 h for a building within the scope of Article 3.2.2.51. or 3.2.2.60.,
(v)5 min for a building not required to be equipped with an annunciator, and
(vi)30 min for any other building. (See Note A-3.2.7.8.(3))
(4)The emergency power supply required by Sentence (1) shall be designed so that, in the event of a failure of the normal power source, there is an immediate automatic transfer to emergency power with no loss of information.
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OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) Interconnected floor space
Interconnected floor space means superimposed floor areas or parts of floor areas in which floor assemblies that are required to be fire separations are penetrated by openings that are not provided with closures.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.8.1. Application
(1)Except as permitted by Article 3.2.8.2. and Sentence 3.3.4.2.(3), the portions of a floor area or a mezzanine that do not terminate at an exterior wall, a firewall or a vertical shaft shall
(a)terminate at a vertical fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the floor assembly and extending from the floor assembly to the underside of the floor or roof assembly above, or
(b)be protected in conformance with the requirements of Articles 3.2.8.3. to 3.2.8.8.
(2)The penetration of a floor assembly by an exit or a vertical service space shall conform to the requirements of Sections 3.4., 3.5. and 3.6.
(3)A floor area containing sleeping rooms in a building of Group B, Division 2 major occupancy shall not be constructed as part of an interconnected floor space.
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OBC Div. B 3.2.8.2. Exceptions to Special Protection
(1)A mezzanine need not terminate at a vertical fire separation nor be protected in conformance with the requirements of Articles 3.2.8.3. to 3.2.8.8. provided the mezzanine
(a)serves a Group A, Division 1 major occupancy,
(b)serves a Group A, Division 3 major occupancy in a building not more than 2 storeys in building height, or
(c)serves a Group A, C, D, E or F major occupancy and
(i)is 500 m² or less in area, and
(ii)conforms to Sentence 3.2.1.1.(3) or (4).
(2)Except for floors referred to in Sentence 3.1.10.3.(1) and Article 3.2.1.2., openings through a horizontal fire separation for vehicular ramps in a storage garage are not required to be protected with closures and need not conform to this Subsection.
(3)If a closure in an opening in a fire separation would disrupt the nature of a manufacturing process, such as a continuous flow of material from storey to storey, the closure for the opening is permitted to be omitted provided precautions are taken to offset the resulting hazard. (See Note A-3.2.8.2.(3))
(4)An interconnected floor space in a Group B, Division 1 occupancy need not conform to the requirements of Articles 3.2.8.3. to 3.2.8.8. provided the interconnected floor space does not interconnect more than 2 adjacent storeys.
(5)Except as permitted by Sentence (6), openings for escalators and inclined moving walks need not conform to the requirements in Articles 3.2.8.3. to 3.2.8.8. provided
(a)the opening for each escalator or walk does not exceed 10 m²,
(b)the building is sprinklered throughout,
(c)closely spaced sprinklers and associated draft stops are installed around the openings in conformance with NFPA 13, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems," and
(d)the interconnected floor space contains only Group A, Division 1, 2 or 3, Group D or Group E occupancies. (See Note A-3.2.8.2.(6)(c))
(6)An interconnected floor space need not conform to the requirements of Articles 3.2.8.3. to 3.2.8.8. provided
(a)it consists of the first storey and the storey next above or below it, but not both,
(b)it is sprinklered throughout or, where the building area is not more than one-half of the area permitted by Subsection 3.2.2., the openings through the floor are used only for stairways, escalators or moving walks, and (See Note A-3.2.8.2.(6)(b))
(c)it contains only Group A, Division 1, 2 or 3, Group D, Group E, or Group F, Division 2 or 3 major occupancies. (See Note A-3.2.8.2.(6)(c))
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.8.2. in the code viewer