1) The scope of this Part shall be as described in
Subsection 1.3.3. of Division A.
1) Words that appear in italics are defined in Article 1.4.1.2. of Division A.
1) Information to be submitted regarding major components
of fire protection shall conform to the requirements of Subsection 2.2.3. of Division C.
1) Except as permitted by Articles 3.1.2.3. to 3.1.2.5., every building or part thereof shall be classified according to its major occupancy as belonging to one of the Groups or Divisions
described in Table 3.1.2.1. (See Appendix A.)
2) A building intended for use by more than one major occupancy shall be classified according to all major occupancies for which it is used or intended to be
used.
| Table 3.1.2.1. Major Occupancy Classification Forming Part of Sentence 3.1.2.1.(1) |
||
| Group | Division | Description of Major Occupancies |
|---|---|---|
| A | 1 | Assembly occupancies intended for the production and viewing of the performing arts |
| A | 2 | Assembly occupancies not elsewhere classified in Group A |
| A | 3 | Assembly occupancies of the arena type |
| A | 4 | Assembly occupancies in which occupants are gathered in the open air |
| B | 1 | Care or detention occupancies in which persons are under restraint or are incapable of self-preservation because of security measures not under their control |
| B | 2 | Care or detention occupancies in which persons having cognitive or physical limitations require special care or treatment |
| C | — | Residential occupancies |
| D | — | Business and personal services occupancies |
| E | — | Mercantile occupancies |
| F | 1 | High-hazard industrial occupancies |
| F | 2 | Medium-hazard industrial occupancies |
| F | 3 | Low-hazard industrial occupancies |
1) Any building is deemed to be occupied by a single major occupancy, notwithstanding its use for more than one major occupancy, provided that all occupancies are classified as belonging to the same Group classification or, where the Group is divided into
Divisions, as belonging to the same Division classification
described in Table 3.1.2.1.
1) An arena-type building intended for occasional use for trade shows and similar exhibition
purposes shall be classified as a Group A, Division 3 occupancy. (See Appendix A.)
1) A police station with detention quarters is permitted
to be classified as a Group B, Division 2 major occupancy provided the station is not more than 1 storey in building height and 600 m2 in building area.
1) Convalescent homes and children's custodial homes are
permitted to be classified as residential occupancies provided that occupants are ambulatory and
live as a single housekeeping unit in a dwelling unit with sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons.
2) A care facility accepted for residential use pursuant
to provincial legislation is permitted to be
classified as a residential occupancy provided
a)the occupants live in a dwelling unit used as a single housekeeping unit with sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons,
b)interconnected smoke alarms are installed in each sleeping room in addition to the requirements of Article 3.2.4.20.,
c)emergency lighting is provided in conformance with Subsection 3.2.7., and
d)the building is sprinklered throughout.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), major occupancies shall be separated from adjoining major occupancies by fire separations having fire-resistance ratings conforming to Table 3.1.3.1.
2) In a building not more than 3 storeys in building height, if not more than 2 dwelling units are contained together with a Group E major occupancy, the fire-resistance rating of the fire separation between the 2 major occupancies need not be more than 1 h.
3) In a building conforming to the requirements of Articles 3.2.8.2. to 3.2.8.9., the requirements of Sentence (1) for fire separations between major occupancies do not apply at the vertical plane around the perimeter of an opening through
the horizontal fire separation.
| Table 3.1.3.1. Major Occupancy Fire Separations(1) Forming Part of Sentence 3.1.3.1.(1) |
||||||||||||
| Major Occupancy | Minimum Fire-Resistance Rating of Fire Separation, h | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adjoining Major Occupancy | ||||||||||||
| A-1 | A-2 | A-3 | A-4 | B-1 | B-2 | C | D | E | F-1 | F-2 | F-3 | |
| A-1 | — | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| A-2 | 1 | — | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| A-3 | 1 | 1 | — | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| A-4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | — | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| B-1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | — | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 2 |
| B-2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | — | 2 | 2 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 2 |
| C | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | — | 1 | 2(3) | (2) | 2(4) | 1 |
| D | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | — | — | 3 | — | — |
| E | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2(3) | — | — | 3 | — | — |
| F-1 | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | 3 | 3 | — | 2 | 2 |
| F-2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2(4) | — | — | 2 | — | — |
| F-3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 | — | — | 2 | — | — |
| Notes to Table 3.1.3.1. | |
|
|
|
| (1) | Section 3.3. contains requirements for the separation of occupancies and tenancies that are in addition to the requirements for the separation of major occupancies. |
| (2) | See Sentence 3.1.3.2.(1). |
| (3) | See Sentence 3.1.3.1.(2). |
| (4) | See Sentence 3.1.3.2.(2). |
1) No major occupancy of Group F, Division 1 shall be contained within a building with any occupancy classified as Group A, B or C.
2) Not more than one suite of residential occupancy shall be contained within a building classified as a Group F, Division 2 major occupancy.
1) A building permitted to be of combustible construction is permitted to be constructed of combustible materials, with or without noncombustible components.
2) The flame-spread rating on any exposed surface of foamed plastic insulation, and on
any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the
insulation in any direction, shall be not more than 500.
1) Foamed plastics that form part of a wall or ceiling
assembly in combustible construction shall be protected from adjacent spaces in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within
attic or roof spaces, crawl spaces, and wall assemblies,
a)by one of the interior finishes described in Subsections 9.29.4. to 9.29.9.,
b)provided the building does not contain a Group B or Group C major occupancy, by sheet metal
i)mechanically fastened to the supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
ii)not less than 0.38 mm thick, and
iii)with a melting point not below 650°C, or
c)by any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of Sentence 3.1.5.12.(2) (see Appendix A).
1) Optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables
installed in a building permitted to be of combustible construction shall
a)not convey flame or continue to burn for more than 1 min when tested in conformance with the Vertical Flame Test in Clause 4.11.1. of CSA C22.2 No. 0.3, “Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables”, or
b)be located in
i)totally enclosed noncombustible raceways (see Appendix A),
ii)masonry walls,
iii)concrete slabs, or
iv)totally enclosed nonmetallic raceways conforming to Article 3.1.5.20.
(See Appendix A.) (See also Sentence 3.6.4.3.(1).)1) If fire-retardant-treated wood is specified in this Part, the wood shall
a)be pressure impregnated with fire-retardant chemicals in conformance with CSA O80 Series, “Wood Preservation”, and
b)have a flame-spread rating not more than 25.
1) If combustible construction is permitted and is not required to have a fire-resistance rating more than 45 min, heavy timber construction is permitted to be used.
2) If heavy timber construction is permitted, it shall conform to Article 3.1.4.6.
1) Wood elements in heavy timber construction shall be arranged in heavy solid masses
and with essentially smooth flat surfaces to avoid thin sections
and sharp projections.
2) Except as permitted by Sentences (3) to (6) and (12), the minimum dimensions of wood elements in heavy timber construction shall conform to Table 3.1.4.6.
| Table 3.1.4.6. Heavy Timber Dimensions Forming Part of Sentence 3.1.4.6.(2) |
||||
| Supported Assembly | Structural Element | Solid Sawn (width x depth), mm x mm | Glued-Laminated (width x depth), mm x mm | Round (diam), mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roofs only | Columns | 140 x 191 | 130 x 190 | 180 |
| Arches supported on the tops of walls or abutments | 89 x 140 | 80 x 152 | — | |
| Beams, girders and trusses | 89 x 140 | 80 x 152 | — | |
| Arches supported at or near the floor line | 140 x 140 | 130 x 152 | — | |
| Floors, floors plus roofs | Columns | 191 x 191 | 175 x 190 | 200 |
| Beams, girders, trusses and arches | 140 x 241 or
191 x 191 |
130 x 228 or
175 x 190 |
— | |
3) Where splice plates are used at splices of roof
arches supported on the tops of walls or abutments, roof
trusses, roof beams and roof girders in heavy timber construction, they shall be not less than 64 mm thick.
4) Floors in heavy timber construction shall be of glued-laminated or solid sawn
plank not less than
a)64 mm thick, splined or tongued and grooved, or
b)38 mm wide and 89 mm deep set on edge and well spiked together.
5) Floors in heavy timber construction shall be laid
a)so that no continuous line of end joints will occur except at points of support, and covered with
i)tongued and grooved flooring not less than 19 mm thick laid crosswise or diagonally, or
ii)tongued and grooved phenolic-bonded plywood, strandboard or waferboard not less than 12.5 mm thick, and
b)not closer than 15 mm to the walls to provide for expansion, with the gap covered at the top or bottom.
6) Roofs in heavy timber construction shall be of tongued and grooved
phenolic-bonded plywood not less than 28 mm thick, or
glued-laminated or solid sawn plank that is
a)not less than 38 mm thick, splined or tongued and grooved, or
b)not less than 38 mm wide and 64 mm deep set on edge and laid so that no continuous line of end joints will occur except at the points of support.
7) Wood columns in heavy timber construction shall be continuous or superimposed
throughout all storeys.
8) Superimposed wood columns in heavy timber construction shall be connected by
a)reinforced concrete or metal caps with brackets,
b)steel or iron caps with pintles and base plates, or
c)timber splice plates fastened to the columns by metal connectors housed within the contact faces.
9) Where beams and girders in heavy timber construction enter masonry, wall plates, boxes
of the self-releasing type or hangers shall be used.
10) Wood girders and beams in heavy timber construction shall be closely fitted to
columns, and adjoining ends shall be connected by ties or caps
to transfer horizontal loads across the joints.
11) In heavy timber construction, intermediate wood beams used to support a
floor shall be supported on top of the girders or on metal
hangers into which the ends of the beams are closely fitted.
12) Roof arches supported on the top of walls or
abutments, roof trusses, roof beams and roof girders in heavy timber construction are permitted to be not less than 64 mm wide provided
a)where two or more spaced members are used, the intervening spaces are
i)blocked solidly throughout, or
ii)tightly closed by a continuous wood cover plate not less than 38 mm thick secured to the underside of the members, or
b)the underneath of the roof deck or sheathing is sprinklered.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) to (4) and Articles 3.1.5.2. to 3.1.5.21., 3.1.13.4. and 3.2.2.16., a building or part of a building required to be of noncombustible construction shall be constructed with noncombustible materials. (See also Subsection 3.1.13. for the requirements regarding the flame-spread rating of interior finishes.)
2) Notwithstanding the definition of noncombustible materials stated in Article 1.4.1.2. of Division A, a material is permitted to be
used in noncombustible construction provided that, when tested in accordance
with ULC-S135, “Test Method for the Determination of
Combustibility Parameters of Building Materials Using an
Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter (Cone Calorimeter),” at a
heat flux of 50 kW/m2,
a)its average total heat release is not more than 3 MJ/m2,
b)its average total smoke extinction area is not more than 1.0 m2, and
c)the test duration is extended beyond the time stipulated in the referenced standard until it is clear that there is no further release of heat or smoke.
3) If a material referred to in Sentence (2) consists of a number of discrete layers and testing reveals
that the surface layer or layers protect the underlying
layers such that complete combustion of the underlying
layers does not occur, the test shall be repeated by
removing the outer layers sequentially until all layers have
been exposed during testing, or until complete combustion
has occurred.
4) The acceptance criteria for a material tested in
accordance with Sentence (3) shall be based on the cumulative emissions from all layers, which must not exceed the
criteria stated in Clauses (2)(a) and (b).
1) The following minor combustible components are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction:
a)paint (See also Sentence 3.1.5.10.(1)),
b)mastics and caulking materials, including foamed plastic air sealants, applied to provide a seal between the major components of exterior wall construction, (See also Article 3.6.4.3. for limits on the use of combustible materials in plenum spaces),
c)fire stop materials conforming to Sentence 3.1.9.1.(1) and Article 3.1.11.7.,
d)tubing for pneumatic controls provided it has an outside diameter of not more than 10 mm,
e)adhesives, vapour barriers and sheathing papers,
f)electrical outlet and junction boxes,
g)wood blocking within wall assemblies intended for the attachment of handrails, fixtures, and similar items mounted on the surface of the wall, and
h)similar minor components.
1) Combustible roof covering that has an A, B, or C classification determined in conformance with Subsection 3.1.15. is permitted on a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
2) Combustible roof sheathing and roof sheathing supports installed above a concrete deck are permitted
on a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
a)the concrete deck is not less than 50 mm thick,
b)the height of the roof space above the deck is not more than 1 m,
c)the roof space is divided into compartments by fire stops in conformance with Article 3.1.11.5.,
d)openings through the concrete deck other than for noncombustible roof drains and plumbing piping are protected by masonry or concrete shafts
i)constructed as fire separations having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
ii)extending from the concrete deck to not less than 150 mm above the adjacent roof sheathing,
e)the perimeter of the roof is protected by a noncombustible parapet extending from the concrete deck to not less than 150 mm above the adjacent sheathing, and
f)except as permitted by Clause (d), the roof space does not contain any building services.
3) Combustible cant strips, roof curbs, nailing strips and similar components used in the installation
of roofing are permitted on a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
4) Wood nailer facings to parapets, not more than 600 mm
high, are permitted on a building required to be of noncombustible construction, if the facings and any roof membranes
covering the facings are protected by sheet metal.
1) Combustible skylight assemblies are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction if the assemblies have a flame-spread rating not more than
a)150 provided the assemblies
i)have an individual area not more than 9 m2,
ii)have an aggregate horizontal projected area of the openings through the ceiling not more than 25% of the area of the ceiling of the room or space in which they are located, and
iii)are spaced not less than 2.5 m from adjacent assemblies and from required fire separations, or
b)75 provided the assemblies
i)have an individual area not more than 27 m2,
ii)have an aggregate horizontal projected area of the openings through the ceiling not more than 33% of the area of the ceiling of the room or space in which they are located, and
iii)are spaced not less than 1.2 m from adjacent assemblies and from required fire separations.
(See Appendix A.)2) Combustible vertical glazing installed no higher than the second storey is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
3) Except as permitted by Sentence (4), the combustible vertical glazing permitted by Sentence (2) shall have a flame-spread rating not more than 75.
4) The flame-spread rating of combustible glazing is permitted to be not more than 150 if the aggregate area of glazing is not
more than 25% of the wall area of the storey in which it is located, and
a)the glazing is installed in a building not more than 1 storey in building height,
b)the glazing in the first storey is separated from the glazing in the second storey in accordance with the requirements of Article 3.2.3.17. for opening protection, or
c)the building is sprinklered throughout.
5) Combustible window sashes and frames are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
a)each window in an exterior wall face is an individual unit separated by noncombustible wall construction from every other opening in the wall,
b)windows in exterior walls in contiguous storeys are separated by not less than 1 m of noncombustible construction, and
c)the aggregate area of openings in an exterior wall face of a fire compartment is not more than 40% of the area of the wall face.
1) Except for an exposing building face required to conform to Sentence 3.2.3.7.(1) or Sentence 3.2.3.7.(4), an exterior non-loadbearing wall assembly that includes combustible components is permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
a)the building is
i)not more than 3 storeys in building height, or
ii) sprinklered throughout,
b)the interior surfaces of the wall assembly are protected by a thermal barrier conforming to Sentence 3.1.5.12.(3), and
c)the wall assembly satisfies the criteria of Sentences (2) and (3) when subjected to testing in conformance with CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies”.
(See Appendix A.)2) Flaming on or in the wall assembly shall not spread
more than 5 m above the opening during or following the test
procedure referenced in Sentence (1). (See Appendix A.)
3) The heat flux during the flame exposure on a wall
assembly shall be not more than 35 kW/m2 measured
3.5 m above the opening during the test procedure referenced in
Sentence (1). (See Appendix A.)
4) A wall assembly permitted by Sentence (1) that includes combustible cladding of fire-retardant-treated wood shall be tested for fire exposure after the cladding has been subjected
to an accelerated weathering test as specified in ASTM D 2898, “Accelerated
Weathering of Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire
Testing”.
1) Wood nailing elements attached directly to or set into
a continuous noncombustible backing for the attachment of interior finishes are permitted in
a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided the concealed space created by the wood elements is not more
than 50 mm thick.
1) Combustible millwork, including interior trim, doors and door frames, show windows together with their
frames, aprons and backing, handrails, shelves, cabinets and
counters, is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
1) Combustible stage flooring supported on noncombustible structural members is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
2) Wood members more than 50 mm but not more than 300 mm
high applied directly to or set into a noncombustible floor slab are permitted for the construction of a raised platform in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided the concealed spaces are fire stopped in conformance with Sentence 3.1.11.3.(2).
3) The floor system for the raised platform referred to
in Sentence (2) is permitted to include a combustible subfloor and combustible finished flooring.
4) Combustible finished flooring is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
1) Combustible stairs are permitted in a dwelling unit in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
1) Combustible interior finishes, including paint, wallpaper, and other interior finishes not more than
1 mm thick, are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
2) Combustible interior wall finishes, other than foamed plastics, are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided they
a)are not more than 25 mm thick, and
b)have a flame-spread rating not more than 150 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction.
3) Combustible interior ceiling finishes, other than foamed plastics, are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided they
a)are not more than 25 mm thick, except for exposed fire-retardant-treated wood battens, and
b)have a flame-spread rating not more than 25 on any exposed surface, or on any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, or are of fire-retardant-treated wood, except that not more than 10% of the ceiling area within each fire compartment is permitted to have a flame-spread rating not more than 150.
1) Gypsum board with a tightly adhering paper
covering not more than 1 mm thick is permitted in
a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided the flame-spread rating on the surface is not more than 25.
1) Combustible insulation, other than foamed plastics, is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided that it has a flame-spread rating not more than 25 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed
by cutting through the material in any direction, where the
insulation is not protected as described in Sentences (3) and (4).
2) Foamed plastic insulation having a flame-spread rating not more than 25 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through
the material in any direction, is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier consisting
of
a)not less than 12.7 mm thick gypsum board mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
b)lath and plaster, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
c)masonry,
d)concrete, or
e)any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of classification B when tested in conformance with ULC standard CAN4-S124-M, “Test for the Evaluation of Protective Coverings for Foamed Plastic” (see Appendix A).
3) Combustible insulation having a flame-spread rating more than 25 but not more than 500 on an exposed surface, or any surface that
would be exposed by cutting through the material in any
direction, is permitted in the exterior walls of
a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the
building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier as described
in Sentence (2), except that in a building that is not sprinklered throughout and is more than 18 m high, measured between grade and the floor level of the top storey, the insulation shall be protected by a thermal barrier consisting of
a)gypsum board not less than 12.7 mm thick, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation and with all joints either backed or taped and filled,
b)lath and plaster, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
c)masonry or concrete not less than 25 mm thick, or
d)any thermal barrier that, when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101-M, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials”, will not develop an average temperature rise more than 140°C or a maximum temperature rise more than 180°C at any point on its unexposed face within 10 min.
(see also Article 3.2.3.7.)4) Combustible insulation having a flame-spread rating more than 25 but not more than 500 on any exposed surface, or any surface that
would be exposed by cutting through the material in any
direction, is permitted in the interior walls, within ceilings
and within roof assemblies of a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided the insulation is protected
from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by
a thermal barrier as described in Sentence (2), except that in a building that is not sprinklered throughout and is more than 18 m high, measured between grade and the floor level of the top storey, the insulation shall be protected by a thermal barrier consisting of
a)Type X gypsum board not less than 15.9 mm thick, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation and with all joints either backed or taped and filled, conforming to
i)ASTM C 36/C 36M, “Gypsum Wallboard”,
ii)ASTM C 442/C 442M, “Gypsum Backing Board, Gypsum Coreboard, and Gypsum Shaftliner Board”,
iii)ASTM C 588/C 588M, “Gypsum Base for Veneer Plasters”,
iv)ASTM C 630/C 630M, “Water-Resistant Gypsum Backing Board”,
v)ASTM C 931/C 931M, “Exterior Gypsum Soffit Board”,
vi)ASTM C 960/C 960M, “Predecorated Gypsum Board,” or
vii) CAN/CSA-A82.27-M, “Gypsum Board”,
b)non-loadbearing masonry or concrete not less than 50 mm thick,
c) loadbearing masonry or concrete not less than 75 mm thick, or
d)any thermal barrier that, when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials”,
i)will not develop an average temperature rise more than 140°C or a maximum temperature rise more than 180°C at any point on its unexposed face within 20 min, and
ii)will remain in place for not less than 40 min.
5) Combustible insulation, including foamed plastics, installed above roof decks, outside of foundation walls below ground level and beneath concrete slabs-on-ground is permitted to be used in a
building required to be of noncombustible construction.
6) Thermosetting foamed plastic insulation having a flame-spread rating not more than 500 that forms part of a factory-assembled exterior wall panel that
does not incorporate an air space is permitted to be used in a
building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
a)the foamed plastic is protected on both sides by sheet steel not less than 0.38 mm thick that will remain in place for not less than 10 min when the wall panel is tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials”,
b)the flame-spread rating of the wall panel, determined by subjecting a sample including an assembled joint to the appropriate test described in Subsection 3.1.12., is not more than the flame-spread rating permitted for the room or space that it bounds,
c)the building does not contain a Group B or Group C major occupancy, and
d)the building is not more than 18 m high, measured between grade and the floor level of the top storey.
7) A factory-assembled non-loadbearing interior or exterior wall or ceiling panel containing foamed plastic insulation having a flame-spread rating of not more than 500 is permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
a)the building is sprinklered,
b)the building is not more than 18 m high, measured between grade and the floor level of the uppermost storey,
c)the building does not contain a Group A, Group B, or Group C major occupancy,
d)the panel does not contain an air space,
e)the panel, when tested in conformance with ULC/ORD-C376, “Fire Growth of Foamed Plastic Insulated Building Panels in a Full-Scale Room Configuration”, meets the criteria defined in the document, and
f)the flame-spread rating of the panel, determined by subjecting a sample that includes an assembled joint typical of field installation to the appropriate test described in Subsection 3.1.12., is not more than the flame-spread rating permitted for the room or space that it bounds.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2), solid lumber partitions not less than 38 mm thick and wood framing in partitions located in a fire compartment not more than 600 m2 in area are permitted to be used in a
building required to be of noncombustible construction in a floor area that is not sprinklered throughout provided the partitions
a)are not required fire separations, and
b)are not located in a care or detention occupancy.
2) Partitions installed in a building of noncombustible construction are permitted to contain wood framing provided
a)the building is not more than 3 storeys in building height,
b)the partitions are not located in a care or detention occupancy, and
c)the partitions are not installed as enclosures for exits or vertical service spaces.
3) Solid lumber partitions not less than 38 mm thick and partitions that contain wood framing are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
a)the building is sprinklered throughout, and
b)the partitions are not
i)located in a care or detention occupancy,
ii)installed as enclosures for exits or vertical service spaces, or
iii)used to satisfy the requirements of Clause 3.2.8.1.(1)(a).
1) Storage lockers in storage rooms are permitted to be
constructed of wood in a building of residential occupancy required to be of noncombustible construction.
1) Except as required by Sentence 3.6.4.3.(1), combustible ducts, including plenums and duct connectors, are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided these ducts and duct connectors
are used only in horizontal runs.
2) Combustible duct linings, duct coverings, duct insulation, vibration isolation connectors, duct
tape, pipe insulation and pipe coverings are permitted to be
used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided they conform to the appropriate requirements of Subsection 3.6.5.
3) In a building required to be of noncombustible construction, combustible ducts need not comply with the requirements of Sentences 3.6.5.1.(1) and (2) provided the ducts are
a)part of a duct system conveying only ventilation air, and
b)contained entirely within a dwelling unit.
1) Except as permitted by Clause 3.1.5.2.(1)(d) and Sentences (2) and (3), combustible piping and tubing and associated adhesives are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided that, except when concealed in a wall or concrete floor slab,
they
a)have a flame-spread rating not more than 25, and
b)if used in a building described in Subsection 3.2.6., have a smoke developed classification not more than 50.
2) Combustible sprinkler piping is permitted to be used within a sprinklered floor area in a building required to be of noncombustible construction. (See also Article 3.2.5.14.)
3) Polypropylene pipes and fittings are permitted to be
used for drain, waste and vent piping for the conveyance of
highly corrosive materials and for piping used to distribute
distilled or dialyzed water in laboratory and hospital
facilities in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided
a)the building is sprinklered throughout,
b)the piping is not located in a vertical shaft, and
c)piping that penetrates a fire separation is sealed at the penetration by a fire stop system that, when subjected to the fire test method in ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems”, has an FT rating not less than the fire-resistance rating of the fire separation.
1) Combustible plumbing fixtures, including wall and ceiling enclosures that form part of the plumbing
fixture, are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided they are constructed of material
having a flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification not more than that permitted for the
wall surface of the room or space in which they are installed.
1) Except as permitted by Article 3.1.5.19., optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables with combustible insulation, jackets or sheathes are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided
a)the wires and cables exhibit a vertical char of not more than 1.5 m when tested in conformance with the Vertical Flame Test–Cables in Cabletrough in Clause 4.11.4 of CSA C22.2 No. 0.3, “Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables”,
b)the wires and cables are located in
i)totally enclosed noncombustible raceways (see A-3.1.4.3.(1)(b)(i) in Appendix A ),
ii)masonry walls,
iii)concrete slabs,
iv)a service room separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, or
v)totally enclosed nonmetallic raceways conforming to Article 3.1.5.20., or
c)the wires and cables are communication cables used at the service entry to a building and are not more than 3 m long.
(See Appendix A.)1) Combustible travelling cables are permitted on elevating devices in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
1) Subject to the limits on the size of elements that
penetrate fire separations as stated in Sentence 3.1.9.3.(2), within a fire compartment of a building required to be of noncombustible construction, totally enclosed nonmetallic raceways
not more than 175 mm in outside diameter, or of
an equivalent rectangular area, are permitted to be used to
enclose optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables,
provided the raceways exhibit a vertical char not more than 1.5
m when tested in conformance with the Vertical Flame Test (FT -
4) – Conduit or Tubing on Cable Tray in Clause 6.16 of CSA C22.2 No. 211.0,
“General Requirements and Methods of Testing for Nonmetallic
Conduit”.
1) On buildings required to be of noncombustible construction, decorative wood cladding is permitted to be used on the
exterior marquee fascias of a storey having direct access to a street or access route, provided the cladding is fire-retardant-treated wood that has been conditioned in conformance with ASTM D 2898,
“Accelerated Weathering of Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood
for Fire Testing”, before being tested in
accordance with CAN/ULC-S102, “Test for Surface
Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and
Assemblies”.
1) Tents and air-supported structures shall conform to Sections 3.3. and 3.4.
1) An air-supported structure shall not be located above the first storey on any building.
2) An air-supported structure shall not be used for Groups B, C, or Group F,
Division 1 major occupancies or for classrooms.
3) An air-supported structure shall be designed as open floor space without interior walls,
mezzanines, intermediate floors or similar construction.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2), (3) and (4), every tent and air-supported structure shall conform to Subsection 3.2.3.
2) Tents and air-supported structures
a)shall not be erected closer than 3 m to other structures on the same property except as permitted by Sentences (3) and (4), and
b)shall be sufficiently distant from one another to provide an area to be used as a means of emergency egress.
3) Tents and air-supported structures not occupied by the public
a)need not be separated from one another, and
b)are permitted to be erected less than 3 m from other structures on the same property provided this spacing does not create a hazard to the public.
4) Tents not more than 120 m2 in ground area,
located on fair grounds or similar open spaces, need not be
separated from one another provided this does not create a
hazard to the public.
1) The ground enclosed by a tent or air-supported structure and not less than 3 m of ground outside the structure shall be cleared of all flammable
material or vegetation that will spread fire.
1) Every tent and air-supported structure and all tarpaulins and decorative materials
used in connection with these structures shall conform to CAN/ULC-S109, “Flame
Tests of
Flame-Resistant Fabrics and Films”.
1) An air-supported structure used as a place of assembly for more than 200 persons shall have
either
a)an automatic emergency engine-generator set capable of powering one blower continuously for 4 h, or
b)a supplementary blower powered by an automatic internal combustion engine.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and Article 3.1.7.2., the rating of a material, assembly of
materials or a structural member that is required to have a fire-resistance rating, shall be determined on the basis of the results of tests conducted in
conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building
Construction and Materials”.
2) A material, assembly of materials or a structural
member is permitted to be assigned a fire-resistance rating on the basis of Appendix D.
3) Assembly Number R1, M1 and M2 of Table A-9.10.3.1.B are permitted to be used to determine the fire resistance rating of a ceiling assembly or a ceiling membrane.
[Rev. 3, B.C. Reg. 334/2008.]
1) The limit on the rise of temperature on the unexposed
surface of an assembly as required by the tests referred to in
Sentence 3.1.7.1.(1) shall not apply to an exterior wall that has a limiting distance of 1.2 m or more, provided correction is made for radiation from the
unexposed surface in accordance with Sentence 3.2.3.1.(6).
1) Floor, roof and ceiling assemblies shall be rated for
exposure to fire on the underside.
2) Firewalls and interior vertical fire separations shall be rated for exposure to fire on each side.
3) Exterior walls shall be rated for exposure to fire
from inside the building.
1) The use of materials or assemblies having a greater
fire-resistance rating than required shall impose no obligation to exceed in whole or in
part the minimum fire-resistance ratings required by this Part.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2) and by Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.83. for mixed types of construction, all loadbearing walls, columns and arches in the storey immediately below a floor or roof assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the supported floor or roof assembly.
2) Loadbearing walls, columns and arches supporting a service room or service space need not conform to Sentence (1).
3) If an assembly is required to be of noncombustible construction and have a fire-resistance rating, it shall be supported by noncombustible construction.
1) Any wall, partition or floor assembly required to be a fire separation shall
a)except as permitted by Sentence (2), be constructed as a continuous element, and
b)as required in this Part, have a fire-resistance rating as specified (see Appendix A).
2) Openings in a fire separation shall be protected with closures, shafts or other means in conformance with Articles 3.1.8.4. to 3.1.8.17. and Subsections 3.1.9. and 3.2.8. (See Appendix A.)
1) Combustible construction that abuts on or is supported by a noncombustible fire separation shall be constructed so that its collapse under fire conditions will not cause the
collapse of the fire separation.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence 3.6.4.2.(2), a horizontal service space or other concealed space located above a
required vertical fire separation, including the walls of a vertical shaft, shall be divided at the
fire separation by an equivalent fire separation within the service space.
2) The fire separation required by Sentence (1) shall terminate so that smoke-tight joints are provided where it
abuts on or intersects
a)a floor,
b)a roof slab, or
c)a roof deck.
3) Except as required by Subsection 3.6.3. for a shaft penetrating a roof assembly, a
shaft, including an exit enclosure, that penetrates a fire separation, shall
a)extend through any horizontal service space or any other concealed space, and
b)terminate so that smoke-tight joints are provided where the shaft abuts on or intersects
i)a floor,
ii)a roof slab, or
iii)a roof deck.
4) The continuity of a fire separation shall be maintained where it abuts
another fire separation, a floor, a ceiling, a roof, or an exterior wall assembly. (See
Appendix A.)
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and 3.1.8.14.(1), the fire-protection rating of a closure shall be determined based on the results of tests conducted in conformance with the appropriate
provisions in
a)CAN4-S104-M, “Fire Tests of Door Assemblies”,
b)CAN4-S106-M, “Fire Tests of Window and Glass Block Assemblies”, or
c)CAN/ULC-S112-M, “Fire Test of Fire-Damper Assemblies”.
(See Articles 3.1.8.15. to 3.1.8.17. for additional requirements for closures.)2) Except as permitted by Sentence 3.1.8.10.(1), the fire-protection rating of a closure shall conform to Table 3.1.8.4. for the required fire-resistance rating of the fire separation.
| Table 3.1.8.4. Fire-Protection Rating of Closures Forming Part of Sentence 3.1.8.4.(2) |
|
| Fire-Resistance Rating of Fire Separation | Minimum Fire-Protection Rating of Closure |
|---|---|
| 45 min | 45 min |
| 1 h | 45 min |
| 1.5 h | 1 h |
| 2 h | 1.5 h |
| 3 h | 2 h |
| 4 h | 3 h |
1) Except where fire dampers, window assemblies and glass block are used as closures, closures of the same fire-protection rating installed on opposite sides of the same opening are deemed to have a fire-protection rating equal to the sum of the fire-protection ratings of the closures. (See A-3.1.8.1.(2) in Appendix A.)
2) Except as otherwise specified in this Part, every
door, window assembly or glass block used as a closure in a required fire separation shall be installed in conformance with
NFPA 80, “Fire Doors and
Fire Windows”.
(See A-3.1.8.1.(2) in Appendix A.)
3) If a door is installed such that it could damage the
integrity of a fire separation if its swing is unrestricted, door stops shall be installed to prevent
the damage.
1) The size of an opening in an interior fire separation required to be protected with a closure shall be not more than 11 m2, with no dimension more than 3.7 m, if a fire compartment on either side of the fire separation is not sprinklered.
2) The size of an opening in an interior fire separation required to be protected with a closure shall be not more than 22 m2, with no dimension more than 6 m, provided the
fire compartments on both sides of the fire separation are sprinklered.
1) Except as permitted by Article 3.1.8.8., a duct that penetrates an assembly
required to be a fire separation shall be equipped with a fire damper.
2) A fire damper required by Sentence (1) shall have a fire-protection rating conforming to Sentence 3.1.8.4.(2).
1) Fire dampers need not be provided in noncombustible branch ducts that have a melting point above 760°C and that penetrate a required
fire separation provided the ducts
a)serve only air-conditioning units or combined air-conditioning and heating units discharging air not more than 1.2 m above the floor and have a cross-sectional area not more than 0.013 m2, or
b)are connected to exhaust duct risers that are under negative pressure and in which the airflow is upward as required by Article 3.6.3.4. and the branch ducts are carried up inside the riser not less than 500 mm.
2) A duct penetrating a vertical fire separation not required to have a fire-resistance rating need not be equipped with a fire damper at the fire separation.
3) A noncombustible duct that penetrates a horizontal fire separation not required to have a fire-resistance rating need not be equipped with a fire damper at the fire separation.
4) A noncombustible duct that penetrates a fire separation that separates a vertical service space from the remainder of the building need not be equipped with a fire damper at the fire separation provided
a)the duct has a melting point above 760°C, and
b)each individual duct exhausts directly to the outside at the top of the vertical service space.
5) A continuous noncombustible duct having a melting point above 760°C that penetrates a
vertical fire separation as required by Sentence 3.3.1.1.(1) between suites of other than residential or care or detention occupancy need not be equipped with a fire damper at the fire separation.
6) A duct that serves commercial cooking equipment and
penetrates a required fire separation need not be equipped with a fire damper at the fire separation. (See also Article 6.2.2.6.)
1) A fire damper shall be arranged so as to close automatically upon the operation of a
fusible link conforming to ULC-S505, “Fusible Links for Fire Protection
Service”, or other heat-actuated or smoke-actuated
device.
2) A heat-actuated device referred to in Sentence (1) shall
a)be located where it is readily affected by an abnormal rise in temperature in the duct, and
b)have a temperature rating approximately 30°C above the maximum temperature that would exist in the system, whether it is in operation or shut down.
3) A fire damper shall be installed in the plane of the fire separation so as to stay in place should the duct become
dislodged during a fire.
4) A fire damper tested in the vertical or horizontal position shall be installed in the
position in which it was tested.
5) A tightly fitted access door shall be installed for
each fire damper to provide access for the inspection of the damper and the resetting of the release
device. (See Appendix A.)
1) A door assembly having a fire-protection rating not less than 20 min is permitted to be used as a closure in
a)a fire separation not required to have a fire-resistance rating more than 1 h, located between
i)a public corridor and a suite,
ii)a corridor and adjacent sleeping rooms, or
iii)a corridor and adjacent classrooms, offices and libraries in Group A, Division 2 major occupancies, or
b)a fire separation not required to have a fire-resistance rating more than 45 min, located in a building not more than 3 storeys in building height.
2) The requirements for noncombustible sills and combustible floor coverings in NFPA 80, “Fire Doors and Fire Windows”, do not apply to a door described in
Sentence (1).
3) A door described in Sentence (1) shall have clearances of not more than 6 mm at the bottom and not more
than 3 mm at the sides and top.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2), every door in a fire separation, other than doors to freight elevators and dumbwaiters, shall be equipped
with a self-closing device designed to return the door to the
closed position after each use.
2) A self-closing device need not be provided on a door
that is located between
a)a classroom and a corridor providing access to exit from the classroom in a building that is not more than 3 storeys in building height,
b)a public corridor and an adjacent room of business and personal services occupancy in a building that is not more than 3 storeys in building height provided the door is not located in a dead-end portion of the corridor,
c)a patients' sleeping room and a corridor serving the patients' sleeping room, provided the room and corridor are within a fire compartment in a hospital or nursing home that complies with the requirements of Article 3.3.3.5., or
d)a patients' sleeping room and an adjacent room that serves the patients' sleeping room, provided these rooms are within a fire compartment in a hospital or nursing home that complies with the requirements of Article 3.3.3.5.
1) A hold-open device is permitted on a door in a required fire separation, other than an exit stair door in a building more than 3 storeys in building height, and on a door for a vestibule required by Article 3.3.5.7., provided the device is designed to release the door in conformance with Sentences (2), (3) and (4).
2) Except as required by Sentence (3), a hold-open device permitted by Sentence (1) shall be designed to release by a signal from
a)an automatic sprinkler system,
b)a heat-actuated device, or
c)a smoke detector located as described in Appendix B of NFPA 80, “Fire Doors and Fire Windows”.
3) A hold-open device permitted by Sentence (1) shall be designed to release upon a signal from a smoke detector located as described in Appendix B of NFPA 80, “Fire Doors and Fire Windows”, if used on
a)an exit door,
b)a door opening into a public corridor,
c)an egress door referred to in Sentence 3.4.2.4.(2),
d)a door serving
i)an assembly occupancy,
ii)a care or detention occupancy, or
iii)a residential occupancy, or
e)a door required to function as part of a smoke control system.
4) A hold-open device permitted by Sentence (1) shall be designed to release upon a signal from the building fire alarm system if a fire alarm system is provided, except that this requirement does not apply to
a)a hold-open device on a door located between a corridor used by the public and an adjacent sleeping room in a hospital or nursing home, or
b)a hold-open device that is designed to release by a heat-actuated device in conformance with Sentence (2).
[Rev. 4, B.C. Reg. 1/2009.]
1) Except as permitted by Article 3.3.3.5., a swing-type door in a fire separation shall be equipped with a positive latching mechanism designed to
hold the door in the closed position after each use.
1) Except as permitted by Articles 3.1.8.16. and 3.1.8.17. for the separation of exits, an opening in a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not more than 1 h is permitted to be protected with fixed wired glass assemblies
or glass blocks installed in conformance with NFPA 80, “Fire Doors and Fire
Windows”.
2) Wired glass assemblies permitted by Sentence (1) and described in Appendix D are permitted to be used as closures in vertical fire separations without being tested in accordance with Sentence 3.1.8.4.(1).
3) Glass blocks permitted by Sentence (1) shall be installed in accordance with Subsection 4.3.2. and reinforced with steel reinforcement in each
horizontal joint.
1) Except as permitted by Article 3.1.8.17., the maximum temperature rise on the opaque portion of the
unexposed side of a door used as a closure in a fire separation in a location shown in Table 3.1.8.15., shall conform to the Table when tested in
conformance with Sentence 3.1.8.4.(1).
| Table 3.1.8.15. Restrictions on Temperature Rise and Glazing for Closures Forming Part of Articles 3.1.8.15. and 3.1.8.16. |
||||
| Location | Minimum Required Fire-Protection Rating of Door | Maximum Temperature Rise on Opaque Portion of Unexposed Side of Door, °C | Maximum Area of Wired Glass in Door, m2 | Maximum Aggregate Area of Glass Block and Wired Glass Panels not in a Door, m2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Between a dead-end corridor and an adjacent occupancy where the corridor provides the only access to exit and is required to have a fire-resistance rating | Less than 45 min | No limit | No limit | No limit |
| 45 min | 250 after 30 min | 0.0645 | 0.0645 | |
| Between an exit enclosure and the adjacent floor area in a building not more than 3 storeys in building height | All ratings | No limit | 0.8 | 0.8 |
| Between an exit enclosure and the adjacent floor area (except as permitted above) | 45 min | 250 after 30 min | 0.0645 | 0.0645 |
| 1.5 h | 250 after 1 h | 0.0645 | 0.0645 | |
| 2 h | 250 after 1 h | 0.0645 | 0.0645 | |
| In a firewall | 1.5 h | 250 after 30 min | 0.0645 | 0 |
| 3 h | 250 after 1 h | 0 | 0 | |
1) Except as permitted by Article 3.1.8.17., the maximum area of wired glass in a door used in the locations
shown in Table 3.1.8.15. shall conform to the Table. (See
Appendix A.)
2) Except as permitted by Article 3.1.8.17., the maximum area of glass block and wired glass panels not in a
door, used in the locations shown in Table 3.1.8.15., shall conform to the Table.
1) The temperature rise limits and glass area limits
required by Articles 3.1.8.15. and 3.1.8.16. are waived for a closure between an exit enclosure and an enclosed vestibule or corridor, provided
a)the vestibule or corridor is separated from the remainder of the floor area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min,
b)the fire separation required by Clause (a) contains no wired glass or glass block within 3 m of the closure into the exit enclosure, and
c)the vestibule or corridor contains no occupancy.
(See Appendix A.)1) Except as required by Sentence (2), piping, tubing, ducts, chimneys, optical fibre cables, electrical wires and cables, totally enclosed noncombustible raceways, electrical outlet boxes and other similar building services that penetrate a fire separation or a membrane forming part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating shall be
a)sealed by a fire stop system that, when subjected to the fire test method in ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems”, has an F rating not less than the fire-protection rating required for closures in the fire separation in conformance with Table 3.1.8.4., or
b) cast in place (see Appendix A).
(See also Article 3.1.9.4. for requirements regarding penetrations by combustible drain, waste and vent piping.)2) Piping, tubing, ducts, chimneys, optical fibre cables, electrical wires and cables, totally
enclosed noncombustible raceways, electrical outlet boxes and other similar building services that penetrate a firewall or a horizontal fire separation that is required to have a fire-resistance rating in conformance with Article 3.2.1.2., shall be sealed at the penetration by a fire
stop system that, when subjected to the fire test method in
ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems”, has an FT rating not less than
the fire-resistance rating for the fire separation.
1) Except as permitted by Articles 3.1.9.3. and 3.1.9.4., pipes, ducts, electrical outlet boxes, totally enclosed raceways or
other similar service equipment that penetrate an assembly
required to have a fire-resistance rating shall be noncombustible, unless the assembly was tested incorporating that service
equipment. (See Appendix A.)
1) Optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables
in totally enclosed noncombustible raceways are permitted to penetrate an assembly required to have
a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as
required by Article 3.1.9.2.
2) Except as permitted by Sentence (3), totally enclosed nonmetallic raceways conforming to Article 3.1.5.20., optical fibre cables, and electrical wires and cables, single or
grouped, with combustible insulation, jackets or sheathes that conform to the requirements of Clause 3.1.5.18.(1)(a) and that are not installed in totally
enclosed noncombustible raceways are permitted to penetrate an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required
by Article 3.1.9.2., provided the overall diameter of the single
or grouped wires or cables, or the raceways is not more than 25
mm.
3) Single conductor metal sheathed cables with combustible jacketting that are more than 25 mm in overall diameter are permitted to penetrate
a fire separation required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required
by Article 3.1.9.2., provided the cables are not grouped.
4) Combustible totally enclosed raceways that are embedded in a concrete floor slab are permitted in an
assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at
the time of testing as required by Article 3.1.9.2., provided the concrete cover between the raceway and the bottom
of the slab is not less than 50 mm.
5) Combustible outlet boxes are permitted in an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at the time of testing as required by Article 3.1.9.2., provided the opening through the membrane into the box is not
more than 0.016 m2.
6) Outlet boxes that penetrate opposite sides of a wall
assembly shall be offset where necessary to maintain the
integrity of the fire separation.
1) Combustible sprinkler piping is permitted to penetrate a fire separation provided the fire compartments on each side of the fire separation are sprinklered.
2) Combustible water distribution piping that has an outside diameter not more than 30 mm is permitted to
penetrate a vertical fire separation that is required to have a fire-resistance rating without being incorporated in the assembly at
the time of testing as required by Article 3.1.9.2., provided the piping is sealed in conformance with Clause 3.1.9.1.(1)(b).
3) Except as permitted by Sentences (4) to (6), combustible piping shall not be used in a drain, waste and vent piping system if any part of that system
penetrates
a)a fire separation required to have a fire-resistance rating, or
b)a membrane that forms part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating.
4) Combustible drain, waste and vent piping is permitted to penetrate a fire separation required to have a fire-resistance rating or a membrane that forms part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating, provided
a)the piping is sealed at the penetration by a fire stop system that has an F rating not less than the fire-resistance rating required for the fire separation when subjected to the fire test method in ULC-S115, “Fire Tests of Firestop Systems”, with a pressure differential of 50 Pa between the exposed and unexposed sides, with the higher pressure on the exposed side, and
b)the piping is not located in a vertical shaft.
5) Combustible drain piping is permitted to penetrate a horizontal fire separation provided it leads directly from a noncombustible water closet through a concrete floor slab.
6) Combustible drain, waste and vent piping is permitted on one side of a vertical fire separation provided it is not located in a vertical
shaft.
1) A membrane ceiling forming part of an assembly assigned a fire-resistance rating on the basis of Appendix D or Sentence 3.1.7.1.(3) is permitted to be penetrated by openings leading into ducts within the ceiling space, provided
a)the ducts are sheet steel, and
b)the number of openings and their protection conform to the requirements of Appendix D.
[Rev. 3, B.C. Reg. 334/2008.]
1) A ceiling assembly used as a plenum shall conform to Article 3.6.4.3.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2), the connections and supports for structural framing members that are
connected to or supported on a firewall and have a fire-resistance rating less than that required for the firewall, shall be designed so that the failure of the framing
systems during a fire will not affect the integrity of the
firewall during the fire.
2) Sentence (1) does not apply to a firewall consisting of two separate wall assemblies each tied to its respective building frame but not to each other, provided each wall assembly is
a)a fire separation having one half of the fire-resistance rating required for the firewall by Sentences 3.1.10.2.(1) and (2), and
b)designed so that the collapse of one wall assembly will not cause collapse of the other.
3) A firewall is permitted to be supported on the structural frame of a building of noncombustible construction provided the supporting frame has a fire-resistance rating not less than that required for the firewall.
4) Piping, ducts and totally enclosed noncombustible raceways shall be installed so that their collapse will not cause collapse of the firewall.
1) A firewall that separates a building or buildings with floor areas containing a Group E or a Group F, Division 1 or 2 major occupancy shall be constructed as a fire separation of noncombustible construction having a fire-resistance rating not less than 4 h, except that where the upper portion of a firewall separates floor areas containing other than Group E or Group F,
Division 1 or 2 major occupancies, the fire-resistance rating of the upper portion of the firewall is permitted to be not less than 2 h.
2) A firewall that separates a building or buildings with floor areas containing major occupancies other than Group E or Group F, Division 1 or 2 shall be constructed as
a fire separation of noncombustible construction having a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h.
3) Except as permitted by Sentence (4), the required fire-resistance rating of a firewall, except for closures, shall be provided by masonry or concrete.
4) A firewall permitted to have a fire-resistance rating not more than 2 h need not be constructed of masonry or
concrete, provided
a)the assembly providing the fire-resistance rating is protected against damage that would compromise the integrity of the assembly, and
b)the design conforms to Article 4.1.5.18.
(See Appendix A.)1) A firewall shall extend from the ground continuously through, or adjacent to, all storeys of a building or buildings so separated, except that a firewall located above a basement storage garage conforming to Article 3.2.1.2. is permitted to commence at the floor assembly immediately above
the storage garage. (See also Sentence 3.1.10.1.(3).)
2) A firewall is permitted to terminate on the underside of a reinforced concrete roof slab,
provided
a)the roof slab on both sides of the firewall has a fire-resistance rating not less than
i)1 h if the firewall is required to have a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h, or
ii)2 h if the firewall is required to have a fire-resistance rating not less than 4 h, and
b)there are no concealed spaces within the roof slab in that portion immediately above the firewall.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and 3.1.10.3.(2), a firewall shall extend above the roof surface to form a parapet not less than
a)150 mm high for a firewall required to have a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h, and
b)900 mm high for a firewall required to have a fire-resistance rating not less than 4 h.
2) A firewall that separates 2 buildings with roofs at different elevations need not extend above the upper roof surface to form
a parapet, provided the difference in elevation between the
roofs is more than 3 m.
1) Openings in a firewall shall conform to the size limits described in Article 3.1.8.6. and the aggregate width of openings shall be not more than 25%
of the entire length of the firewall.
1) The requirements of Article 3.2.3.14. shall apply to the external walls of 2 buildings that meet at a firewall at an angle less than 135°.
1) Combustible material shall not extend across the end of a firewall but is permitted to extend across a roof above a firewall that is terminated in conformance with Sentence 3.1.10.3.(2).
2) If buildings are separated by a firewall, combustible projections on the exterior of one building, including balconies, platforms, canopies, eave projections and stairs, that extend outward
beyond the end of the firewall, shall not be permitted within 2.4 m of combustible projections and window or door openings of the adjacent building. (See also Article 3.2.3.6.)
1) Concealed spaces in interior wall, ceiling and crawl
spaces shall be separated from concealed spaces in exterior
walls and attic or roof spaces by fire stops conforming to Article 3.1.11.7.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2), fire stops conforming to Article 3.1.11.7. shall be provided to block off
concealed spaces within a wall assembly
a)at every floor level,
b)at every ceiling level where the ceiling forms part of an assembly required to have a fire-resistance rating, and
c)so that the maximum horizontal dimension is not more than 20 m and the maximum vertical dimension is not more than 3 m.
2) Fire stops conforming to Sentence (1) are not required, provided
a)the wall space is filled with insulation,
b)the exposed construction materials and any insulation within the wall space are noncombustible,
c)the exposed construction materials and any insulation within the wall space have a flame-spread rating not more than 25 on any exposed surface, or on any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, and fire stops are installed so that the vertical distance between them is not more than 10 m, or
d)the insulated wall assembly contains not more than one concealed air space, and the horizontal thickness of that air space is not more than 25 mm.
1) In a building required to be of noncombustible construction, a concealed space in which there is an exposed ceiling finish with
a flame-spread rating more than 25, shall be provided with fire stops conforming to Article 3.1.11.7. between wood nailing elements, so that the maximum area of the
concealed space is not more than 2 m2.
2) In a building required to be of noncombustible construction, fire stops conforming to Article 3.1.11.7. shall be provided in the
concealed spaces created by the wood members permitted by
Sentence 3.1.5.8.(2) so that the maximum area of a concealed
space is not more than 10 m 2.
1) Fire stops conforming to Article 3.1.11.7. shall be provided
a)at all interconnections between concealed vertical and horizontal spaces in interior coved ceilings, drop ceilings and soffits in which the exposed construction materials within the space have a flame-spread rating more than 25, and
b)at the end of each run and at each floor level in concealed spaces between stair stringers in which the exposed construction materials within the space have a flame-spread rating more than 25.
1) Except for crawl spaces conforming to Sentence 3.1.11.6.(1), horizontal concealed spaces within a
floor assembly or roof assembly of combustible construction, in which sprinklers are not installed, shall be separated by construction
conforming to Article 3.1.11.7. into compartments not more than
a)600 m2 in area with no dimension more than 60 m if the exposed construction materials within the space have a flame-spread rating not more than 25, and
b)300 m2 in area with no dimension more than 20 m if the exposed construction materials within the space have a flame-spread rating more than 25.
(See Appendix A.)2) A concealed space in an exterior cornice, a
mansard-style roof, a balcony or a canopy in which exposed
construction materials within the space have a flame-spread rating more than 25, shall be separated by construction conforming to Article 3.1.11.7.
a)at locations where the concealed space extends across the ends of required vertical fire separations, and
b)so that the maximum dimension in the concealed space is not more than 20 m.
1) A crawl space that is not considered as a basement by Article 3.2.2.9. and in which sprinklers are not installed, shall be separated by
construction conforming to Article 3.1.11.7. into compartments not more than 600 m2 in area with
no dimension more than 30 m.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) to (4) and (7), materials used to separate concealed spaces into compartments shall remain in place and prevent the
passage of flames for not less than 15 min when subjected to the
standard fire exposure in CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building
Construction and Materials”.
2) Gypsum board not less than 12.7 mm thick and sheet
steel not less than 0.38 mm thick need not be tested in
conformance with Sentence (1), provided all joints have continuous support.
3) In a building required to be of noncombustible construction, wood nailing elements described in Article 3.1.5.6. need not be tested in conformance with Sentence (1).
4) In a building permitted to be of combustible construction, in a combustible roof system permitted by Sentence 3.1.5.3.(2), and in a raised platform permitted by
Sentence 3.1.5.8.(2), materials used to separate concealed
spaces into compartments are permitted to be
a)solid lumber not less than 38 mm thick,
b)phenolic bonded plywood, waferboard, or strandboard not less than 12.5 mm thick with joints supported, or
c)two thicknesses of lumber, each not less than 19 mm thick with joints staggered, where the width or height of the concealed space requires more than one piece of lumber not less than 38 mm thick to block off the space.
5) Openings through materials referred to in
Sentences (1) to (4) shall be protected to maintain the integrity of the construction.
6) Where materials referred to in Sentences (1) to (4) are penetrated by construction elements or by service equipment, fire stop
materials shall be used to seal the penetration.
7) In buildings permitted to be of combustible construction, semi-rigid fibre insulation board produced from glass, rock
or slag is permitted to be used to block the vertical space
in a double stud wall assembly formed at the intersection of
the floor assembly and the walls, provided the width of the
vertical space does not exceed 25 mm and the insulation
board
a)has a density not less than 45 kg/m3,
b)is securely fastened to one set of studs,
c)extends from below the bottom of the top plates in the lower storey to above the top of the bottom plate in the upper storey, and
d)completely fills the portion of the vertical space between the headers and between the wall plates.
(See Appendix A.)1) Except as required by Sentence (2) and as permitted by Sentence (3), the flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification of a material, assembly, or
structural member shall be determined on the basis of not less
than three tests conducted in conformance with CAN/ULC-S102, “Test for
Surface Burning Characteristics of Building Materials and
Assemblies”.
2) The flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification of a material or assembly shall
be determined on the basis of not less than three tests
conducted in conformance with CAN/ULC-S102.2, “Test for
Surface Burning Characteristics of Flooring, Floor
Coverings, and Miscellaneous Materials and
Assemblies”, if the material or assembly
a)is designed for use in a relatively horizontal position with only its top surface exposed to air,
b)cannot be tested in conformance with Sentence (1) without the use of supporting material that is not representative of the intended installation, or
c)is thermoplastic.
3) A material, assembly, or structural member is
permitted to be assigned a flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification on the basis
of Appendix D.
1) Except as otherwise provided by this Subsection,
interior finishes, furnishings and decorative materials shall
conform to Section 2.3. of the BCFC.
2) Interior finish material shall include any material
that forms part of the interior surface of a floor, wall, partition or ceiling, including
a)interior cladding of plaster, wood or tile,
b)surfacing of fabric, paint, plastic, veneer or wallpaper,
c)doors, windows and trim,
d)lighting elements such as light diffusers and lenses forming part of the finished surface of the ceiling, and
e)carpet material that overlies a floor that is not intended as the finished floor.
1) Except as otherwise required or permitted by this
Subsection, the flame-spread rating of interior wall and ceiling finishes, including glazing and
skylights, shall be not more than 150 and shall conform to
Table 3.1.13.2.
| Table 3.1.13.2. Flame-Spread Ratings Forming Part of Sentence 3.1.13.2.(1) |
||
| Occupancy, Location or Element | Maximum Flame-Spread Rating for Walls and Ceilings | |
|---|---|---|
| Sprinklered | Not Sprinklered | |
| Group A, Division 1 occupancies, including doors, skylights, glazing and light diffusers and lenses | 150 | 75 |
| Group B occupancies | 150 | 75 |
| Exits (1) | 25 | 25 |
| Lobbies described in Sentence 3.4.4.2.(2) | 25 | 25 |
| Covered vehicular passageways, except for roof assemblies of heavy timber construction in the passageways | 25 | 25 |
| Vertical service spaces | 25 | 25 |
| Notes to Table 3.1.13.2. | |
|
|
|
| (1) | See Articles 3.1.13.8. and 3.1.13.10. |
2) Except as permitted by Sentence (3), doors, other than those in Group A, Division 1 occupancies, need not conform to Sentence (1) provided they have a flame-spread rating not more than 200. (See Appendix A.)
3) Doors within a dwelling unit need not conform to Sentences (1) and (2).
4) Up to 10% of the total wall area and 10% of the total
ceiling area of a wall or ceiling finish that is required by
Sentence (1) to have a flame-spread rating less than 150 is permitted to have a flame-spread rating not more than 150, except that up
to 25% of the total wall area of lobbies described in Sentence 3.4.4.2.(2) is permitted to have a flame-spread rating not more than 150.
5) Except in the case of Group A, Division 1 occupancies, combustible doors, skylights, glazing and light diffusers and lenses shall not be considered in the calculation of wall
and ceiling areas described in Sentence (4).
1) The flame-spread rating of interior wall and ceiling finishes for a bathroom within
a suite of residential occupancy shall be not more than 200.
1) The flame-spread rating of combustible light diffusers and lenses in all occupancies other than Group A, Division 1 is permitted to be more than the flame-spread rating limits required elsewhere in this Subsection, provided the light diffusers and
lenses
a)have a flame-spread rating not more than 250 and a smoke developed classification not more than 600 when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S102.2, “Test for Surface Burning Characteristics of Flooring, Floor Coverings, and Miscellaneous Materials and Assemblies”,
b)fall to the bottom of the test apparatus before igniting when tested in conformance with ULC S102.3-M, “Fire Test of Light Diffusers and Lenses”,
c)are not prevented from falling from the ceiling by construction located beneath the elements, and
d)are not used in a corridor that is required to be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation or in an exit shaft unless individual diffusers or lenses are not more than 1 m2 in area and are not less than 1.2 m apart.
1) Individual combustible skylights in a corridor that is required to be separated from
the remainder of the building by a fire separation shall be not more than 1 m2 in area and not less than 1.2 m apart.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), the flame-spread rating shall be not more than 75 for the interior wall finish of
a)a public corridor,
b)a corridor used by the public in
i)an assembly occupancy, or
ii)a care or detention occupancy,
c)a corridor serving classrooms, or
d)a corridor serving sleeping rooms in a care or detention occupancy.
2) The flame-spread rating limit specified in Sentence (1) does not apply to corridors referred to in Sentence (1) provided the flame-spread rating is not more than
a)25 on the upper half of the wall, and
b)150 on the lower half of the wall.
3) The flame-spread rating limits specified in Sentences (1) and (2) for corridors referred to in Sentence (1) does not apply to a corridor in which the flame-spread rating is not more than 150 provided the building is sprinklered throughout.
4) The flame-spread rating limits specified in Sentences (1), (2) and (3) apply to occupancies in the corridor as well as to the corridor itself.
5) Except in a building that is sprinklered throughout, the interior ceiling finish of corridors and occupancies referred to in Sentences (1) and (4) shall have a flame-spread rating not more than 25.
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) to (4), the interior wall, ceiling and floor finishes in a building regulated by the provisions of Subsection 3.2.6. shall conform to the flame-spread rating requirements in Article 3.1.13.2. and to the flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification values in Table 3.1.13.7.
| Table 3.1.13.7. Flame-Spread Rating and Smoke Developed Classification in a High Building Forming Part of Sentence 3.1.13.7.(1) |
||||||
| Location or Element | Maximum Flame-Spread Rating | Maximum Smoke Developed Classification | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wall Surface | Ceiling Surface(1) | Floor Surface | Wall Surface | Ceiling Surface(1) | Floor Surface | |
| Exit stairways, vestibules to exit stairs and lobbies described in Sentence 3.4.4.2.(2) | 25 | 25 | 25 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| Corridors not within suites | (2) | (2) | 300 | 100 | 50 | 500 |
| Elevator cars and vestibules | 25 | 25 | 300 | 100 | 100 | 300 |
| Service spaces and service rooms | 25 | 25 | 25 | 50 | 50 | 50 |
| Other locations and elements | (2) | (2) | No Limit | 300 | 50 | No Limit |
| Notes to Table 3.1.13.7. | |
|
|
|
| (1) | See Article 3.1.13.4. for lighting elements. |
| (2) | Other requirements of this Part apply. |
2) Except for a building of Group B major occupancy and elevator cars, the flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification of interior wall, floor and ceiling
finishes need not conform to the values in Table 3.1.13.7., provided the building is sprinklered throughout.
3) Trim and millwork in an exit stairway, a vestibule to an exit stairway, a lobby described in Sentence 3.4.4.2.(2), or a corridor not within a suite need not conform to the flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification requirements of Sentence (1) provided they have
a)a flame-spread rating not more than 150,
b)a smoke developed classification not more than 300, and
c)an aggregate area not more than 10% of the area of the wall or ceiling on which they occur.
4) A door serving an exit stairway, a vestibule to an exit stairway, a lobby described in Sentence 3.4.4.2.(2), or a corridor not within a suite need not conform to the flame-spread rating and smoke developed classification requirements of Sentence (1) provided
a)it has a flame-spread rating not more than 200,
b)it has a smoke developed classification not more than 300, and
c)the aggregate area of all doors is not more than 10% of the area of the wall in which they are located.
1) In a building required to be of noncombustible construction,
a)the flame-spread ratings required by Subsection 3.1.5. shall apply in addition to the requirements in this Subsection, and
b)the flame-spread ratings for exits in this Subsection shall also apply to any surface in the exit that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, except that this requirement does not apply to doors, heavy timber construction in a sprinklered building and fire-retardant-treated wood.
1) Except for paint, the interior wall and ceiling
finishes of an underground walkway shall be of noncombustible materials.
1) The wall and ceiling finishes of an exterior exit passageway that provides the only means of egress from the rooms or suites it serves, including the soffit beneath and the guard on the passageway, shall have a flame-spread rating not more than 25, except that a flame-spread rating not more than 150 is permitted for up to 10% of the
total wall area and for up to 10% of the total ceiling area.
1) If a fire-retardant-treated wood roof system is used to comply with the requirements
of Subsection 3.2.2., the roof deck assembly shall meet the
conditions of acceptance of CAN/ULC-S126-M, “Test for Fire Spread Under Roof-Deck
Assemblies”.
2) Supports for the roof deck assembly referred to in
Sentence (1) shall consist of
a) fire-retardant-treated wood,
c) noncombustible construction, or
d)a combination thereof.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2), a metal roof deck assembly shall meet the conditions of acceptance
of CAN/ULC-S126-M, “Test
for Fire Spread Under Roof-Deck Assemblies”, if
a)it supports a combustible material above the deck that could propagate a fire beneath the roof deck assembly, and
b)the deck is used to comply with the requirements of Sentences 3.2.2.25.(2), 3.2.2.32.(2), 3.2.2.53.(2), 3.2.2.59.(2), 3.2.2.69.(2) and 3.2.2.76.(2) for noncombustible construction.
2) The requirements of Sentence (1) are waived provided
a)the combustible material above the roof deck is protected by not less than 12.7 mm thick gypsum board, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly if located beneath the roof deck, or by a thermal barrier conforming to one of Clauses 3.1.5.12.(2)(c) to (e) that is located
i)on the underside of the combustible material, or
ii)beneath the roof deck,
b)the building is sprinklered throughout, or
c)the roof assembly has a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
1) A roof covering classification shall be determined in
conformance with CAN/ULC-S107, “Fire Tests of Roof Coverings”.
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2), every roof covering shall have a Class A, B or C classification as
determined in accordance with Article 3.1.15.1.
2) A roof covering is not required to have a Class A, B
or C classification for
a)a tent,
b)an air-supported structure, or
c)a building of Group A, Division 2 occupancy not more than 2 storeys in building height and not more than 1 000 m2 in building area provided the roof covering is underlaid with noncombustible material.
1) Fabrics used as part of an awning, canopy or marquee
that is located within or attached to a building of any type of construction shall conform to CAN/ULC-S109, “Flame Tests of Flame-Resistant Fabrics
and Films”.
1) The occupant load of a floor area or part of a floor area shall be based on
a)the number of seats in an assembly occupancy having fixed seats,
b)2 persons per sleeping room in a dwelling unit, or
c)the number of persons for which the area is designed, but not less than that determined from Table 3.1.17.1. for occupancies other than those described in Clauses (a) and (b), unless it can be shown that the area will be occupied by fewer persons.
2) If a floor area or part thereof has been designed for an occupant load other than that determined from Table 3.1.17.1., a permanent sign indicating that occupant load shall be posted in a conspicuous location.
| Table 3.1.17.1. Occupant Load Forming Part of Article 3.1.17.1. |
|
| Type of Use of Floor Area or Part Thereof | Area per person, m2 |
|---|---|
| Assembly uses | |
| space with fixed seats | (1) |
| space with non-fixed seats | 0.75 |
| stages for theatrical performances | 0.75 |
| space with non-fixed seats and tables | 0.95 |
| standing space | 0.40 |
| stadia and grandstands | 0.60 |
| bowling alleys, pool and billiard rooms | 9.30 |
| classrooms | 1.85 |
| school shops and vocational rooms | 9.30 |
| reading or writing rooms or lounges | 1.85 |
| dining, beverage and cafeteria space | 1.20 |
| laboratories in schools | 4.60 |
| Care or detention uses | |
| treatment and sleeping room areas | 10.00 |
| detention quarters | 11.60 |
| Residential uses | |
| dwelling units | (2) |
| dormitories | 4.60 |
| Business and personal services uses | |
| personal services shops | 4.60 |
| offices | 9.30 |
| Mercantile uses | |
| basements and first storeys | 3.70 |
| second storeys having a principal entrance from a pedestrian thoroughfare or a parking area | 3.70 |
| other storeys | 5.60 |
| Industrial uses | |
| manufacturing or process rooms | 4.60 |
| storage garages | 46.00 |
| storage spaces (warehouse) | 28.00 |
| aircraft hangars | 46.00 |
| Other uses | |
| cleaning and repair goods | 4.60 |
| kitchens | 9.30 |
| storage | 46.00 |
| public corridors intended for occupancies in addition to pedestrian travel | 3.70(3) |
| Notes to Table 3.1.17.1. | |
|
|
|
| (1) | See Clause 3.1.17.1.(1)(a). |
| (2) | See Clause 3.1.17.1.(1)(b). |
| (3) | See A-3.3. in Appendix A. |
3) For the purposes of this Article, mezzanines, tiers and balconies shall be regarded as part of the floor area.
4) If a room or group of rooms is intended for different
occupancies at different times, the value to be used from Table 3.1.17.1. shall be the value which gives the
greatest number of persons for the occupancies concerned.