Fire alarm, firefighting, emergency power and floor openings (Small Buildings)

Last updated October 22, 2026

Values this chapter turns on

aggregate area limit for the annunciator waiver: 2,000 m²; aggregate area limit for the annunciator waiver
alarm level in a residential sleeping room: 75 dBA; alarm level in a residential sleeping room
fire department connection to hydrant, maximum: 45 m; fire department connection to hydrant, maximum
minimum draft stop depth around each opening: 500 mm; minimum draft stop depth around each opening

This chapter covers the Part 3 fire protection items on the Small Buildings syllabus: how a fire alarm system behaves, when a standpipe is needed, the sprinkler rules written into the OBC itself, emergency power for the alarm, and openings between storeys. Part 9 sends you back to Part 3 for these design details.

Scope notes. The syllabus leaves out the article that decides whether an alarm is required (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.1.); for Part 9 buildings that trigger is in 9.10.18. The voice communication articles (3.2.4.22. and 3.2.4.23.) are not tested. Many sprinkler and alarm details sit in NFPA and ULC standards outside the open-book materials, so the exam tests the OBC text only.

Fire alarm and detection systems

Continuity. If a building has more than one major occupancy and needs an alarm, one system serves them all. If any portion needs an alarm, it goes throughout the building. The exception: a portion not more than 3 storeys in building height, cut off by a vertical fire separation of at least 1 h with no openings other than piping, tubing, wiring and enclosed noncombustible raceways, may be treated as a separate building. That relief does not extend to service rooms and storage rooms (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.2.).

Single-stage or 2-stage. A single-stage system sounds the alarm signal everywhere as soon as any manual station, waterflow device or detector operates. A 2-stage system first sounds an alert signal for staff, then goes to a full alarm if nobody acknowledges within 5 min (Group B, Division 2 is the exception) (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.4.). The type is set by occupancy (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.3.):

Occupancy	System type
Group F, Division 1	single-stage
Group B (general)	2-stage
Group B, Division 3, 3 storeys or less	single- or 2-stage
Elementary and secondary schools (not special needs)	single-stage
Everything else	either

Silencing. An alarm signal must not silence automatically for at least 5 min where no annunciator is required, and 20 min in other buildings (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.6.). Manual silencing switches belong inside the fire alarm control unit.

Annunciator. An annunciator goes near a building entrance facing a street or fire access route. In an unsprinklered building each zone covers no more than 2,000 m² of floor area. The annunciator requirement is waived where the building is not sprinklered, has an aggregate area for all storeys of not more than 2,000 m², and is not more than 3 storeys in building height. A control unit at that entrance with all the indicators can serve as the annunciator. If there is no annunciator, a visible and audible trouble signal device goes inside the main entrance (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.8.).

Detectors and stations. In an unsprinklered building with a required alarm, fire detectors go in storage and service rooms outside dwelling units, janitors' rooms, hazardous-substance rooms, hoistways and shared laundry rooms (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.10.). Smoke detectors are listed for exit stair shafts, elevator machine rooms, public corridors of Group C and other spaces (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.11.). Manual stations go in every floor area near every principal entrance and every exit (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.16.).

Audibility. Alarm signals must be clearly audible throughout the floor area. In a sleeping room of a residential building the level must reach at least 75 dBA with doors closed; elsewhere at least 65 dBA and 10 dBA above ambient. Devices in a dwelling unit may be silenced by hand for no more than 10 min (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.18.). Visible signals are added where ambient noise exceeds 87 dBA, in public corridors serving Groups A to E, in at least 10% of hotel suites, and in other listed places (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.19.).

Smoke alarms. These are separate from the alarm system. Each dwelling unit needs at least one on every storey, one in each sleeping room and one between the bedrooms and the rest of the storey. They are hard-wired with no disconnect switch, have battery backup for 7 days plus 4 minutes of alarm, and are interconnected within the unit (OBC Div. B 3.2.4.20.).

Practice this topic

Standpipes, sprinklers and fire department connections

A standpipe system is needed where a building is more than 3 storeys in building height, more than 14 m from grade to the ceiling of the top storey, or larger in building area than the limit in Table 3.2.5.8. for its occupancy and height, unless sprinklered throughout (OBC Div. B 3.2.5.8.). Read the table by group and storeys; for example a 2-storey Group D building is limited to 3,000 m² (OBC Div. B Table 3.2.5.8.). Every standpipe needs a fire department connection, and a dry standpipe with no water supply does not count (OBC Div. B 3.2.5.9.).

Sprinkler design defaults to NFPA 13. NFPA 13R or 13D may be used in the cases listed. A building with fewer than 9 sprinklers may feed them from the domestic water system if it supplies the flow. Sprinklers may not be omitted from any room or closet in the storey right below the roof (OBC Div. B 3.2.5.12.). Combustible sprinkler piping is limited to residential and other light-hazard occupancies and, unless tested otherwise, must be shielded by at least 9.5 mm gypsum board, 13 mm plywood, lath and plaster or a qualifying suspended ceiling (OBC Div. B 3.2.5.13.). A walk-in service space with flooring other than catwalks must be sprinklered (OBC Div. B 3.2.5.14.).

Fire department connections for standpipes and for sprinklers must be within 45 m of a hydrant, unobstructed (OBC Div. B 3.2.5.15.).

Practice this topic

Emergency power and protection of conductors

The fire alarm needs an emergency supply from a generator, batteries or both, with automatic transfer and no loss of information. It must carry supervisory load for 24 h and then full alarm load for (OBC Div. B 3.2.7.8.):

Building	Full-load period after 24 h
No annunciator required	5 min
Group B major occupancy (not high building)	1 h
Retirement home, or a building under 3.2.2.51. or 3.2.2.60. (not high building)	1 h
High building (3.2.6.)	2 h
Any other building	30 min

Conductor protection under OBC Div. B 3.2.7.10. applies mainly to high buildings, fire pumps, areas of refuge and contained use areas, so it rarely bites in a small building.

Practice this topic

Mezzanines and openings through floor assemblies

When part of a floor area or mezzanine does not end at an exterior wall, firewall or shaft, the opening must either be enclosed by a vertical fire separation rated as the floor, or be protected as an interconnected floor space under Articles 3.2.8.3. to 3.2.8.8. (OBC Div. B 3.2.8.1.). An interconnected floor space is superimposed floor areas whose required fire separation floors have openings without closures (OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.).

Exceptions (OBC Div. B 3.2.8.2.) that show up in small buildings:

A mezzanine of 500 m² or less serving Group A, C, D, E or F that meets the mezzanine area rules of 3.2.1.1.(3) or (4).
Vehicle ramps in a storage garage.
Escalator openings of no more than 10 m² each in a sprinklered building with only A1 to A3, D or E occupancies, where closely spaced sprinklers and draft stops surround the openings.
The first storey plus the storey above or below (not both), sprinklered throughout or, for a building at half the permitted area, with openings used only for stairs, escalators or walks, containing only A1 to A3, D, E, F2 or F3.

Where full protection applies: the building is sprinklered throughout, exits open to the space through vestibules with doors at least 1.8 m apart, draft stops at least 500 mm deep surround each opening, mechanical exhaust gives 4 air changes per hour, and contents where the ceiling is over 8 m are limited to 16 g/m³ (OBC Div. B 3.2.8.4., 3.2.8.6., 3.2.8.7., 3.2.8.8.).

Worked example

A 2-storey store (Group E), sprinklered throughout, has an open stair joining the first and second storeys. Is 3.2.8. protection needed? The space joins the first storey and the storey above only, it is sprinklered, and Group E is a listed occupancy. Sentence 3.2.8.2.(6) applies, so no vestibules, draft stops or exhaust are needed. Add a basement opening to the same stair and the exception fails, because it allows the storey above or below, not both.

Practice this topic

Testing of integrated systems

Where fire protection and life safety systems are integrated with each other, they are tested together as a whole to the integrated systems testing standard named in OBC Div. B 3.2.9.1..

Practice this topic

Common traps

Using 3.2.4.1. to decide if an alarm is required for a Part 9 building. Use 9.10.18.
Mixing up the 5 min silencing delay with the 5 min emergency power period. Both apply only where no annunciator is required.
Forgetting that the 2,000 m² annunciator waiver needs all three conditions: unsprinklered, 2,000 m² aggregate, 3 storeys or less.
Treating a dry standpipe as meeting the standpipe rule.
Assuming a first-storey opening can link to both the basement and the second storey under 3.2.8.2.(6).

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
Standpipes, sprinklers and fire department connections	A standpipe system is needed where a building is more than 3 storeys in building height, more than 14 m from grade to the ceiling of the top storey, or larger in building area…
Emergency power and protection of conductors	The fire alarm needs an emergency supply from a generator, batteries or both, with automatic transfer and no loss of information.
Mezzanines and openings through floor assemblies	When part of a floor area or mezzanine does not end at an exterior wall, firewall or shaft, the opening must either be enclosed by a vertical fire separation rated as the floor…

Standpipes, sprinklers and fire department connections
A standpipe system is needed where a building is more than 3 storeys in building height, more than 14 m from grade to the ceiling of the top storey, or larger in building area…
Emergency power and protection of conductors
The fire alarm needs an emergency supply from a generator, batteries or both, with automatic transfer and no loss of information.
Mezzanines and openings through floor assemblies
When part of a floor area or mezzanine does not end at an exterior wall, firewall or shaft, the opening must either be enclosed by a vertical fire separation rated as the floor…

Usual exam traps

Using 3.2.4.1. to decide if an alarm is required for a Part 9 building. Use 9.10.18.
Mixing up the 5 min silencing delay with the 5 min emergency power period. Both apply only where no annunciator is required.
Forgetting that the 2,000 m² annunciator waiver needs all three conditions: unsprinklered, 2,000 m² aggregate, 3 storeys or less.
Treating a dry standpipe as meeting the standpipe rule.
Assuming a first-storey opening can link to both the basement and the second storey under 3.2.8.2.(6).

Practice this chapter

Questions on Fire alarm, firefighting, emergency power and floor openings, in the exam format, every answer explained and cited to its article. Sign in to start; a free account gets the free questions.

Practice this chapter Small Buildings calculations

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 3.2.4.4. 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. 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 3.2.4.6. 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 3.2.4.8. 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 3.2.4.10. Fire Detectors
(1)Fire detectors required by this Code shall be connected to the fire alarm system.
(2)Except as permitted by Sentence (3), if a fire alarm system is required in a building that is not sprinklered, fire detectors shall be installed in the following spaces:
(a)storage rooms not within dwelling units,
(b)service rooms not within dwelling units,
(c)janitors' rooms,
(d)rooms in which hazardous substances are to be used or stored, (See Note A-3.3.1.2.(1)),
(e)elevator hoistways or dumbwaiter shafts,
(f)laundry rooms in buildings of residential occupancy, but not those within dwelling units, and
(g)hazardous classrooms and change rooms in elementary or secondary schools.
(3)Fire detectors required by Sentence (2) need not be provided within floor areas that are sprinklered.
(4)Fire detectors required by Sentence (2) shall be installed in elevator hoistways and dumbwaiter shafts where a sprinkler system is not installed within the hoistway or shaft.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.10. 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

Show all 29 articles

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))
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.18. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.19. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.4.20. Smoke Alarms
(1)Except as provided in Article 3.2.4.21., smoke alarms shall be installed in accordance with this Article.
(2)Except as permitted by Sentence (10), smoke alarms conforming to CAN/ULC-S531, "Standard for Smoke Alarms," shall be installed in each dwelling unit and, except for care, care and treatment or detention occupancies required to have a fire alarm system, in each sleeping room not within a dwelling unit.
(3)At least one smoke alarm shall be installed on each storey and mezzanine of a dwelling unit.
(4)On any storey of a dwelling unit containing sleeping rooms, a smoke alarm shall be installed
(a)in each sleeping room, and
(b)in a location between the sleeping rooms and the remainder of the storey, and if the sleeping rooms are served by a hallway, the smoke alarm shall be located in the hallway.
(5)Reserved.
(6)A smoke alarm shall be installed on or near the ceiling.
(7)Reserved.
(8)Reserved.
(9)Except as permitted by Sentence (10), smoke alarms referred in Sentence (2) shall
(a)be installed with permanent connections to an electrical circuit,
(b)have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarm, and
(c)in case the regular power supply to the smoke alarm is interrupted, be provided with a battery as an alternative power source that can continue to provide power to the smoke alarm for a period of not less than 7 days in the normal condition, followed by 4 minutes of alarm. (See Note A-3.2.4.20.(9))
(10)Suites of residential occupancy are permitted to be equipped with smoke detectors in lieu of smoke alarms, provided the smoke detectors
(a)are capable of independently sounding audible signals with a sound pressure level between 75 dBA and 110 dBA within the individual suites, (See also Note A-3.2.4.18.(4))
(b)except as permitted by Sentence (11), are installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, "Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems," and verified in conformance with CAN/ULC-S537, "Standard for the Verification of Fire Alarm Systems,"
(c)form part of the fire alarm system, and
(d)are equipped with visual signalling components that meet the requirements of Sentences (17) to (19). (See Note A-3.2.4.20.(10))
(11)Smoke detectors permitted to be installed in lieu of smoke alarms as stated in Sentence (10) are permitted to sound localized alarms within individual suites, and need not sound an alarm throughout the rest of the building.
(12)If more than one smoke alarm is required in a dwelling unit, the smoke alarms shall be interconnected so that the actuation of one smoke alarm will cause all smoke alarms within the dwelling unit to sound.
(13)A smoke alarm required by Sentence (2) shall be installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S553, "Standard for Installation of Smoke Alarms."
(14)Except as permitted in Sentence (15), a manually operated silencing device shall be incorporated within the circuitry of a smoke alarm installed in a dwelling unit so that it will silence the signal emitted by the smoke alarm for a period of not more than 10 min, after which the smoke alarm will reset and again sound the alarm if the level of smoke in the vicinity is sufficient to reactuate the smoke alarm.
(15)Suites of residential occupancy equipped with smoke detectors installed in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, "Standard for Installation of Fire Alarm Systems," as part of the fire alarm system in lieu of smoke alarms as permitted by Sentence (10), need not incorporate the manually operated silencing device required by Sentence (14). (See Note A-3.2.4.20.(10))
(16)The sound patterns of smoke alarms shall
(a)meet the temporal patterns of alarm signals, or (See Note A-3.2.4.18.(2))
(b)be a combination of temporal pattern and voice relay.
(17)Smoke alarms required by Sentence (2) shall have a visual signalling component conforming to the requirements in 18.5.3. (Light, Color and Pulse Characteristics) of NFPA 72, "National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code." (See Note A-3.2.4.20.(17))
(18)The visual signalling component required by Sentence (17) need not
(a)be integrated with the smoke alarm provided it is interconnected to it,
(b)be on battery backup, or
(c)have synchronized flash rates, when installed in a dwelling unit.
(19)The luminous intensity for visual signalling components required by Sentence (17) that are installed in sleeping rooms shall be a minimum of 175 cd.
(20)Smoke alarms required in suites in a retirement home or smoke detectors permitted to be installed in lieu of smoke alarms as provided in Sentence (10) shall upon actuation provide an audible and visual signal to staff serving those suites, so that the suite containing the actuated smoke alarm or smoke detector can be easily identified.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.4.20. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.5.8. in the code viewer
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
Open OBC Div. B Table 3.2.5.8. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.5.9. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.5.12. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.5.13. Combustible Sprinkler Piping
(1)Combustible sprinkler piping shall be used only for sprinkler systems in residential occupancies and other light-hazard occupancies. (See Note A-3.2.5.13.(1))
(2)Combustible sprinkler piping shall meet the requirements of ULC/ORD-C199P, "Combustible Piping for Sprinkler Systems."
(3)Except as permitted by Sentence (5), combustible sprinkler piping shall be separated from the area served by the sprinkler system, and from any other fire compartment, by ceilings, walls, or soffits consisting of, as a minimum,
(a)lath and plaster,
(b)gypsum board not less than 9.5 mm thick,
(c)plywood not less than 13 mm thick, or
(d)a suspended membrane ceiling with
(i)steel suspension grids, and
(ii)lay-in panels or tiles having a mass not less than 1.7 kg/m².
(4)Except as permitted by Sentence (5), combustible sprinkler piping may be located above a ceiling, provided that the distance between the edge of any ceiling opening that is not protected in conformance with Sentence (3) and the nearest sprinkler is not more than 300 mm.
(5)Where combustible sprinkler piping has been tested in conformance with ULC/ORD-C199P, "Combustible Piping for Sprinkler Systems," and has been shown to meet the requirements therein without additional protection, conformance to Sentences (3) and (4) is not required.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.5.13. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.5.14. Sprinklered Service Space
(1)An automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in a service space referred to in Sentence 3.2.1.1.(8) if flooring for access within the service space is other than catwalks.
(2)The sprinkler system required by Sentence (1) shall be equipped with waterflow detecting devices, with each device serving not more than 1 storey.
(3)The waterflow detecting devices required by Sentence (2) shall be connected to the fire alarm system, to
(a)initiate an alert signal in a 2-stage system or an alarm signal in a single-stage system, and
(b)indicate separately on the fire alarm system annunciator the actuation of each device.
(4)If a building is sprinklered, sprinkler protection need not be provided in the space below a raised floor in a computer room
(a)if the optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables in this space conform to the test requirements in Article 3.1.5.25.,
(b)if the building is of noncombustible construction and other combustible components are limited to those permitted in Subsection 3.1.5..
(c)if this space is used to circulate conditioned air and the air handling system is designed to prevent the circulation of smoke upon a signal from a smoke detector,
(d)if all of this space is easily accessible by providing access sections or panels in the raised floor, and
(e)if the computer room is more than 2,000 m² and the annunciator has separate zone indicators of the actuation of smoke detectors located in this space so that the coverage for each zone is not more than 2,000 m².
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.5.14. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.5.15. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.7.8. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.7.10. Protection of Electrical Conductors
(1)The protection of electrical and emergency conductors referred to in Clauses (a) to (c) shall conform to the requirements stated in Sentences (2) to (11):
(a)electrical conductors located within buildings identified in Article 3.2.6.1. serving
(i)fire alarms,
(ii)emergency lighting, or
(iii)emergency equipment within the scope of Articles 3.2.6.2. to 3.2.6.8.,
(b)emergency conductors serving fire pumps required to be installed under Article 3.2.5.18., and
(c)emergency conductors serving mechanical systems serving
(i)areas of refuge identified in Clause 3.3.3.6.(1)(b), or
(ii)contained use areas referred to in Clauses 3.3.3.7.(4)(a) and (b).
(2)Except as otherwise required by Sentence (3) and permitted by this Article, electrical conductors that are used in conjunction with systems identified in Sentence (1) shall
(a)conform to CAN/ULC-S139, "Standard for Fire Test for Circuit Integrity of Fire-Resistive Power, Instrumentation, Control and Data Cables," including the hose stream application, to provide a circuit integrity rating of not less than 1 h, or (See Note A-3.2.7.10.(2)(a) and (3)(a)) (See also Clause 3.2.6.5.(6)(b))
(b)be located in a service space that is separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation that has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 h.
(3)Electrical conductors identified in Clause (1)(c) shall
(a)conform to CAN/ULC-S139, "Standard for Fire Test for Circuit Integrity of Fire-Resistive Power, Instrumentation, Control and Data Cables," including the hose stream application, to provide a circuit integrity rating of not less than 2 h, or (See Note A-3.2.7.10.(2)(a) and (3)(a))
(b)be located in a service space that is separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation that has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 h.
(4)The service spaces referred to in Clause (2)(b) and (3)(b) shall not contain any combustible materials other than the electrical conductors being protected.
(5)Except as permitted by Sentences (7) and (9), the electrical conductors referred to in Sentence (1) are those that extend from the source of emergency power to
(a)the equipment served, or
(b)the distribution equipment supplying power to the equipment served, if both are in the same room. (See Note A-3.2.7.10.(5)(b))
(6)If a fire alarm transponder or annunciator located in one fire compartment is connected to a central processing unit or another transponder or annunciator located in a different fire compartment, the electrical conductors connecting them shall be protected in accordance with Sentence (2).
(7)Fire alarm system branch circuits within a storey that connect transponders and individual devices need not conform to Sentence (2). (See Note A-3.2.7.10.(7))
(8)Except as permitted in Sentence (9), if a distribution panel supplies power to emergency lighting, the power supply conductors leading up to the distribution panel shall be protected in accordance with Sentence (2).
(9)Conductors leading from a distribution panel referred to in Sentence (8) to emergency lighting units in the same storey need not conform to Sentence (2).
(10)Distribution panels serving emergency lighting units located on other storeys shall be installed in a service room separated from the floor area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of at least 1 h.
(11)Conductors leading from a distribution panel to emergency lighting units located on other storeys shall be protected in accordance with Sentence (2) between the distribution panel and the floor area where the emergency lighting units are located.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.7.10. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.8.1. in the code viewer
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.
Open OBC Div. A 1.4.1.2.(1) in the code viewer
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
OBC Div. B 3.2.8.4. Vestibules
(1)An exit opening into an interconnected floor space shall be protected at each opening into the interconnected floor space by a vestibule
(a)with doorways that are not less than 1.8 m apart,
(b)that is separated from the remainder of the floor area by a fire separation that is not required to have a fire-resistance rating, and (See Note A-3.1.8.1.(1)(b))
(c)that is designed to limit the passage of smoke so that the exit stair shaft does not contain more than 1% by volume of contaminated air from the fire floor, assuming an outdoor temperature equal to the January design temperature on a 2.5% basis determined in accordance with MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-1, "Climatic and Seismic Data." (See Note A-3.2.8.4.(1)(c))
(2)An exit opening into an interconnected floor space shall conform to Sentence 3.4.3.2.(6).
(3)If an elevator hoistway opens into an interconnected floor space and into storeys above the interconnected floor space, either the elevator doors opening into the interconnected floor space or the elevator doors opening into the storeys above the interconnected floor space shall be protected by vestibules conforming to Sentence (1).
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.8.4. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.8.6. Draft Stops
(1)A draft stop shall be provided at each floor level within an interconnected floor space, immediately adjacent to and surrounding the opening, and shall be not less than 500 mm deep measured from ceiling level down to the underside of the draft stop.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.8.6. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.8.7. Mechanical Exhaust System
(1)A mechanical exhaust system shall be provided to remove air from an interconnected floor space at a rate of 4 air changes per hour. (See Note A-3.2.8.7.(1))
(2)The mechanical exhaust system required by Sentence (1) shall be actuated by a switch located on the storey containing the entrance for firefighter access referred to in Articles 3.2.5.4. and 3.2.5.5. near the annunciator for the fire alarm system.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.8.7. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.8.8. Combustible Content Limits
(1)An interconnected floor space shall be designed so that the combustible contents, excluding interior finishes, in those parts of a floor area in which the ceiling is more than 8 m above the floor, are limited to not more than 16 g of combustible material for each cubic metre of volume of the interconnected floor space.
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.8.8. in the code viewer
OBC Div. B 3.2.9.1. Testing
(1)Where fire protection and life safety systems, and systems with fire protection and life safety functions, are integrated with each other, the systems shall be tested as a whole in accordance with CAN/ULC-S1001, "Standard for Integrated Systems Testing of Fire Protection and Life Safety Systems", to verify that they have been properly integrated. (See Note A-3.2.9.1.(1))
Open OBC Div. B 3.2.9.1. in the code viewer