Appendix A - Division B

A-1.1.2.1.(1)    Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to Acceptable Solutions. The objectives and functional statements attributed to each Code provision are shown in tables at the end of each Part in Division B.

Many provisions in Division B serve as modifiers of or pointers to other provisions or serve other clarification or explanatory purposes. In most cases, no objectives and functional statements have been attributed to such provisions, which therefore do not appear in the above-mentioned tables.

For provisions that serve as modifiers of or pointers to other referenced provisions and that do not have any objectives and functional statements attributed to them, the objectives and functional statements that should be used are those attributed to the provisions they reference.

A-1.3.1.2.(1)    Where documents are referenced in the Appendices of this Code, they shall be the editions designated in Table A-1.3.1.2.(1).

A-2.1.2.1.(1)    British Columbia Building Code introduced changes to the method of determining building height. Application of the current method to existing buildings for the purposes of this Code could result in certain buildings being reclassified as higher buildings. For this reason, the British Columbia Fire Code suggests that building height is that which was established by the building code that was applicable at the time of construction in the case of original construction, or at the time of alteration if additional storeys have been added to the building.

A-2.1.2.2.(1)    Arena-type buildings are often used for events such as community dances, rallies and trade shows. These events may increase the occupant and fuel loads beyond that for which the space was designed. To ensure safety during such events, additional egress facilities may be required to compensate for the additional occupant load and, in some cases, additional fire suppression measures may be required to compensate for the increased fuel load.

Large public corridors in mercantile occupancies are also used on a temporary basis for community activities, merchandising and for special displays. In these cases, additional egress facilities and fire suppression may be needed, depending on the increase in hazard.

A-2.1.3.1.(1)    The British Columbia Building Code is most often applied to existing buildings when an owner wishes to rehabilitate a building, change its use, or build an addition; or when an enforcement authority decrees that a building, or a class of buildings, be altered for reasons of public safety. It is not intended that either the British Columbia Building Code or the British Columbia Fire Code be used to enforce the retrospective application of new requirements in the British Columbia Building Code to existing buildings. Although the British Columbia Fire Code could be interpreted to require the installation of fire alarm, standpipe and hose and automatic sprinkler systems in an existing building for which there were no requirements before the British Columbia Building Code was issued, it is the intent that the British Columbia Fire Code not be applied in this manner to these buildings.

It is usually difficult to change structural features of an existing building when undertaking alterations or additions, but installation of "active" fire protection systems, such as alarms, sprinklers and standpipes, in existing buildings may be possible. These systems may be considered as contributing to an adequate degree of life safety in cases where the structural features of a building do not conform to the British Columbia Building Code.

Sentence 2.1.3.1.(1) is intended to address the installation of fire alarm, sprinkler and standpipe systems in existing buildings presently not so equipped, and in existing buildings that do not provide an acceptable level of safety to meet the current installation standards specified in the British Columbia Building Code. It is not intended that existing fire protection systems that provide an acceptable level of life safety be upgraded with each new edition of the British Columbia Building Code or in conjunction with the inclusion of new requirements not in force at the time that a building was constructed. The authority having jurisdiction is expected to use discretion in enforcing this requirement. The authority having jurisdiction may accept alternatives to strict compliance with the British Columbia Building Code as provided for in and as clarified in Clause 1.2.1.1.(1)(b) of Division A.

A-2.1.3.4.(1)    Editions of the BCBC prior to 2006 permitted the use of combustible sprinkler piping for wet pipe sprinkler systems in residential and light-hazard occupancies on condition that the piping was protected from exposure to a fire in the space beneath. Article 2.1.3.4. requires that the necessary protection of the piping be maintained so that the performance of the sprinkler system will not be compromised in the event of fire. Some of the conditions included restricting use of the piping to light-hazard occupancies, the piping must be a wet system, use of steel suspension grids and correct tile weight, and integrity of the fire protection covering.

A-2.1.3.5.(3)(c) and (d)    Concern over the impact of halons on the environment is resulting in changes to the regulations of various agencies that affect their use and release to the atmosphere and their reduction, recycling and eventual phase-out as fire extinguishment agents. Standards referenced in the BCFC may not reflect the current status of requirements developed by certain agencies regarding the installation, use and testing of fire suppression systems that employ halons.

A-2.1.3.6.(1)    This provision is intended to direct the Code user primarily to Subsection 3.2.5. of the BCBC, which specifies the appropriate standard for the design and installation of automatic sprinkler systems, i.e. NFPA 13, and provides several exceptions and supplementary requirements. On occasion, other provisions in the BCBC may also apply. However, where a specific hazard is not addressed by the BCBC, such as highly piled storage or the storage of flammable and combustible liquids or rubber tires, the BCFC directly references the applicable NFPA standards that contain design criteria for the sprinkler system required.

A-2.1.3.7.    This Code requires the installation of several fire safety devices for the control of fire hazards. The inspection, maintenance and testing requirements for many of these devices are referenced in the applicable Articles. However, several Sections of the Code do not include such references for certain fire safety devices, examples of which include, but are not limited to:

• ventilation system interlocks and associated audible alarms for rooms or enclosed spaces containing flammable and combustible liquids (e.g. Subsection 4.1.7.)
• vapour detection alarm systems for rooms or enclosed spaces containing flammable and combustible liquids (e.g. Subsection 4.1.7.)
• bonding and grounding systems for flammable and combustible liquid handling processes (e.g. Subsection 4.1.8.)
• fill pipe backflow prevention systems for aboveground storage tanks for flammable and combustible liquids (e.g. Subsection 4.3.6.)
• leak detection monitoring devices for aboveground storage tanks for flammable and combustible liquids (e.g. Section 4.4.).

A-2.1.5.1.(3)    Following are examples of measures deemed to minimize the risk of injury for portable extinguisher operators:

• affixing prominent cautionary labels on portable extinguishers and warning signs at entry points to confined spaces,
• enabling remote applications such as by providing special nozzles,
• installing special ventilation systems,
• providing breathing apparatus and other personal protective equipment, and
• adequately training personnel.

A-2.2.3.1.    Signs should have letters and background in contrasting colours. The individual letters should be a minimum height of 6 mm.

A-2.3.2.2.(1)    The small scale match flame test in NFPA 705 is a relatively simple test that can be used to assess the condition of flame retardant treatments on samples from fabrics that have been in use for a while. It is not intended that NFPA 705 be used as the primary standard for the application of fire retardant treatments.

A-2.4.1.1.(1)    The accumulation of a certain amount of combustible waste material in and around buildings may be necessary for the day-to-day operation of many industrial or commercial premises. If basic measures of good housekeeping are observed, the presence of these combustibles may not constitute an “undue fire hazard.”

A-2.4.1.1.(2)    The defined term “service rooms” includes boiler rooms, furnace rooms, incinerator rooms, garbage rooms, janitors' closets and rooms to accommodate air-conditioning or heating appliances, pumps, compressors and electrical services. The intent of Sentence 2.4.1.1.(2) is to discourage the use of these rooms for the storage of miscellaneous combustible materials. If storage space is needed in a building, a room that does not contain building service equipment should be provided. Even in garbage rooms, combustible materials should not be allowed to accumulate. When the garbage is periodically cleared from the room, the room should be empty, except for the garbage container itself.

A-2.4.1.1.(6)    Measures such as those described in NFPA 80A, “Protection of Buildings from Exterior Fire Exposures,” must be taken to ensure that buildings are protected from fires in outdoor receptacles containing combustible materials.

A-2.4.1.3.(1)    Generally, self-heating and self-ignition are most commonly encountered in organic materials, such as animal and vegetable solids and oils. A rag saturated with linseed oil, for example, is susceptible to self-heating and self-ignition when crumpled and put in a waste container.

Certain inorganic materials, such as metal powders, may also self-heat and self-ignite under isolated conditions. Materials such as motor or lubricating oils are not subject to self-heating and self-ignition.

Table A.10 of the NFPA “Fire Protection Handbook” provides a list of materials that are susceptible to spontaneous heating and ignition.

A-2.4.5.1.(1)    Measures that can be considered to limit fire spread include sufficient clear space between the fire and adjacent buildings, combustibles and woodlands, the size and height of the pile of combustibles to be burned, prevailing meteorological conditions, fire control measures such as hoses and water tanks and, if a receptacle is to be used, the design of the receptacle. In some cases, a permit or licence may be required for open-air fires.

A-2.4.6.1.(1)    Vacant buildings frequently become the target of vandalism and arson. They should be locked, and accessible windows and doors should be barricaded to prevent unauthorized entry. However, fire department access to the interior of the building in the event of a fire should not be made unduly difficult.

A-2.6.1.4.(1)    External inspection of enclosed chimneys and surrounding construction may require the installation of one or more access openings in the enclosure surrounding the chimney. The presence of scorched or charred adjacent combustible construction will indicate the need for further investigation of the cause of the overheating.

Internal inspection of chimneys can be accomplished by lowering a light from the top, insertion of a light at the bottom or at intermediate locations, together with the use of one or more mirrors.

During inspection of a chimney connected to an operating appliance, the presence of dense smoke at the outlet will indicate improper operation of the appliance, incorrect sizing of the chimney or that unsuitable fuels are being used. These factors must be promptly corrected to reduce the accumulation of combustible deposits on the chimney and flue pipe walls.

A-2.6.1.4.(2)    The presence in a chimney of deposits of soot or creosote in excess of 3 mm thick will indicate the need for immediate cleaning, possible modification of burning procedures, and more frequent inspections.

A-2.6.1.4.(3)(a)    Structural deficiencies are deviations from required construction, such as the absence of a liner or inadequate design of supports or ties. Instances of decay are cracking, settling, crumbling mortar, distortion, advanced corrosion, separation of sections, or loose or broken supports.

A-2.6.1.9.(3)    Depending on the amount of cooking equipment usage, the entire exhaust system, including grease extractors, should be inspected at intervals not greater than 7 days to determine if grease or other residues have been deposited within. When grease or other residues are in evidence as deposits within the hood, grease removal devices, or ducts, the system should be cleaned. In general, exhaust systems should be cleaned at intervals not greater than 12 months, but in the case of deep fat cooking, char broiling or similar cooking operations, the systems should be cleaned at intervals not greater than 3 months.

A-2.7.1.3.(1)    The British Columbia Fire Code uses two criteria to determine the maximum permissible occupant load in existing buildings: the exit capacity, and the total clear space per person. Assuming that exit capacity is sufficient, the value of 0.4m² / person ensures that a crowd of people will be able to move steadily toward the exits.

Table 3.1.17.1. in the British Columbia Building Code should not be used to determine maximum permissible occupant load for rooms or spaces in existing buildings. Table 3.1.17.1. is intended to allow a building designer to calculate a minimum occupant load for the purpose of designing certain building features, such as means of egress and fire alarm systems. The designer may choose to design for more or fewer persons, in which case the actual design occupant load must be posted in a conspicuous location. In an existing building, the process must be calculated in reverse, from the measured exit capacity, or other building features, to a maximum permissible occupant load. The result of the calculation may not be, and is not intended to be, consistent with values obtained using Table 3.1.17.1.

Net floor space referred to in Clause (a) is the floor space in a room excluding areas occupied by structural features and fixtures, such as tables, furnishings or equipment. In certain assembly occupancies, where the number and type of furnishings may change according to the nature of the function taking place, it may be appropriate to calculate maximum occupant loads for each of the different functions anticipated.

It should also be noted that Article 2.1.3.1. of this Code requires fire alarm systems to be installed in conformance with the British Columbia Building Code. This means that if the occupant load determined by Sentence 2.7.1.3.(1) exceeds that for which a fire alarm system is required by the British Columbia Building Code, a fire alarm system must be provided in the building.

A-2.7.1.4.(2)    Sentence 3.1.17.1.(2) in the British Columbia Building Code requires that the occupant load used in the design of a floor area be posted if it differs from that determined by Table 3.1.17.1.

A-2.7.3.1.(1)    Subsections 3.2.7. and 3.4.5. in the British Columbia Building Code describe the requirements for placement of exit signs, and emergency and non-emergency lighting requirements.

A-2.8.1.2.(1)    Adequately trained supervisory staff can be of great value in directing people to move in an orderly fashion in the event of a fire and in carrying out appropriate fire control measures until the public fire department arrives. These measures are, as described in the fire safety plan, developed in cooperation with the fire department. The supervisory staff referred to in this Section are assigned their responsibilities by the building owner, unless the public fire department is prepared to take on these responsibilities. Except in hospitals and nursing homes, it is not intended that supervisory staff should be in the building on a continuous basis, but that they should be available to fulfill their obligations as described in the fire safety plan on notification of a fire emergency. In hospitals and nursing homes, however, staff must be in the building at all times to assist occupants who are not capable of caring for themselves in an emergency.

A-2.8.2.1.(1)    The fire safety plan may provide important information to the fire department for use in the preparation of plans for firefighting procedures in specific buildings. This is especially true for buildings where flammable or combustible liquids or other dangerous goods are stored.

The development of the fire safety plan for large retail occupancies, especially the bulk merchandising stores, should take into consideration various unique risk factors prevalent in these stores. A bulk merchandising store is characterized as a retail store in which the sales area includes the storage of material usually located in piles, on pallets or on racks up to 3.7 metres in storage height. These mercantile occupancies tend to store and display in the sales area, large quantities of products ranging from compressed gas cylinders, oxidizers, flammable liquids, combustible liquids, foamed plastics, and combustible materials.

Documented evidence of fires in these types of stores has shown that smoke obscuration occurs within 7.5 to 12 min from the inception of a fire. Prompt response by occupants in a fire emergency is therefore critical. Human behaviour studies have shown that occupants in a retail environment tend to delay evacuation for various reasons such as unfamiliarity with exits or a lack of visibility of exits, reluctance to leave check-out lines, and uncertainty about the events unfolding.

The training and education of staff are crucial elements in clearly notifying and instructing occupants during an emergency. A reliable public address system should be an integral part of this plan. The fire safety plan should be commensurate with the known risks and address the concerns identified above.

A-2.8.2.1.(1)(a)(i)    These procedures should also include training authorized personnel to silence fire alarm and alert signals under specified conditions. If special keys or devices are required to operate the alarm system, they should be readily available to supervisory staff on duty.

A-2.8.2.1.(1)(a)(iv)    Some occupants of a building may require special assistance during evacuation because cognitive or physical limitations make them unable to proceed independently to a place of safety. Fire safety for these persons will depend to a large extent on preplanning and on their awareness of the fire protection measures incorporated into the building. In some buildings, it may be appropriate to advise such occupants of these provisions by posted notices, handouts or other suitable means. In certain residential occupancies, such as hotels or motels, staff should be aware of rooms occupied by persons requiring special assistance during evacuation and should inform the responding fire department.

A-2.8.3.1.(1)    A fire safety plan is of little value if it is not reviewed periodically so that all supervisory staff remain familiar with their responsibilities. A fire drill, then, is at least a review of the fire safety plan by supervisory staff. The extent to which non-supervisory staff participate in a fire drill should be worked out in cooperation with the fire department. The decision as to whether all occupants should leave the building during a fire drill should be based on the nature of the occupancy.

It may be necessary to hold additional fire drills outside normal working hours for the benefit of employees on afternoon or night shifts, who should be as familiar with fire drill procedures as those who work during the day. If full scale fire drills are not possible during non-regular working hours, arrangements should be made so that night-shift supervisory staff can participate in fire drills conducted during the daytime.

A-2.9.3.5.(1)    The type of fire alarm and emergency communication system anticipated for tents and air-supported structures will vary according to the hazard and the number of occupants. If a tent or air-supported structure is to be permanent, a fire alarm and emergency communication system, as defined in the British Columbia Building Code, may be required. If such structures are to be temporary, however, a somewhat less sophisticated system is anticipated, depending on local conditions.

A-3.1.1.1.(1)    Part 3 applies to the short- or long-term storage of products, whether raw or waste materials, goods in process, or finished goods.

This Part does not deal with products or materials that are directly supplied to appliances, equipment or apparatus through piping, hose, ducts, etc. For example, the gas cylinders that are mounted on propane barbecues are not covered by Part 3: they are considered to be “in use” as opposed to “in storage” and are not intended to be regulated by the storage requirements stated in the BCFC.

A-3.1.1.4.    Part 3 deals mainly with the storage of cylinders of Class 2 gases. It is expected that gas installations that are not covered in the Code will conform to good engineering practice, examples of which include:

• NFPA 50, “Bulk Oxygen Systems at Consumer Sites,”
• NFPA 50A, “Gaseous Hydrogen Systems at Consumer Sites,”
• NFPA 50B, “Liquefied Hydrogen Systems at Consumer Sites.”

A-3.1.1.4.(1)(a)    For purposes of this exemption, a distributor is deemed to be a commercial enterprise regularly handling or storing more than 1 500 kg of Class 2 gases for purposes of resale. Such distributors are expected to follow the same good engineering practices as their suppliers. The document CGA P-1, “Safe Handling of Compressed Gases in Containers,” published by the Compressed Gas Association, represents good engineering practice for the handling of Class 2 gases.

A-3.1.2.3.(2)    The International Maritime Organization, the International Civil Aviation Organization, the United Nations and Transport Canada are examples of regulatory authorities that may establish standards for the design and construction of packages and containers for dangerous goods.

A-3.1.2.4.(2)(a)    Methods of preventing valve damage include the use of valve caps, storage in crates (for small cylinders) and the provision of steel rings or protective handles. Certain high pressure cylinders are required by other legislation to be equipped with valve caps.

A-3.1.2.5.(1)    Reactive substances may include various classes of unstable or reactive dangerous goods, such as Class 4 flammable solids, Class 5 oxidizing substances or unstable Class 2 gases.

When containers of highly reactive oxidizers become damaged or are exposed to excessive heat, moisture or contamination (e.g. sawdust, petroleum products, or other chemicals), a very violent fire or explosion can result. In some cases, depending on the quantity and nature of the oxidizing agent, normal firefighting measures (e.g. sprinklers, fire hose and extinguishers) are ineffective due to the self-yielding of oxygen by the oxidizing agent.

In general, it is unsafe to store highly reactive oxidizers close to liquids with low flash points, combustible products or chemically incompatible products. Quantities of oxidizers should therefore be limited and the storage area should be constructed of noncombustible materials, should be kept cool and ventilated, and should not impede egress.

The following classes of oxidizing substances are noted for their ability to supply oxygen (this list is not meant to be all inclusive): organic and inorganic peroxides; pool chemicals (e.g. calcium hypochlorite and sodium dichloroisocyanurate); oxides; permanganates; perrhenates; chlorates; perchlorates; persulfates; organic and inorganic nitrates; bromates; iodates; periodates; perselenates; chromates, dichromates; ozone; perborates.

A-3.2.1.1.(1)    Section 3.2. applies to all parts of buildings, including warehousing or storage areas, manufacturing areas, shipping and receiving areas, and sales areas. It does not apply to the storage of unpackaged grain or coal. Additional requirements in Part 5 of this Code address the dust hazard associated with bulk grain or coal storage.

A-3.2.1.1.(1)(a)    Chapter 2 of NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems,” gives an extensive description with numerous examples of commodities for classification purposes and should be consulted. The following is a brief overview of the NFPA 13 classification of commodities:

A Class I commodity is defined as essentially noncombustible products in ordinary corrugated cartons or in ordinary paper wrappings, with or without combustible pallets.

A Class II commodity is defined as Class I products in slatted wooden crates, solid wooden boxes, multiple thickness paperboard cartons or equivalent combustible packaging material, with or without combustible pallets.

A Class III commodity is defined as wood, paper, natural fiber, cloth, or Group C plastics, with or without combustible pallets. Products may contain a limited amount of Group A or B plastics.

A Class IV commodity is defined as Class I, II, or III products in corrugated cartons, containing an appreciable amount of Group A plastics or with Group A plastics packaging, with or without combustible pallets. Group B plastics and free-flowing Group A plastics are also included in this class.

Group A plastics include, but are not limited to, ABS, acrylic, butyl rubber, fiberglass reinforced polyester, natural rubber (if expanded), nitrile rubber, polycarbonate, polyester elastomer, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyurethane, highly plasticized PVC, and SBR.

Group B plastics include, but are not limited to, cellulosics, fluoroplastics, natural rubber (not expanded), nylon, and silicone rubber.

Group C plastics include, but are not limited to, fluoroplastics, melamine, phenolic resins, rigid PVC, and urea formaldehyde.

A-3.2.2.2.    The purpose of this Article is to provide adequate access to the interior of the storage area for firefighting and overhaul operations. Means of egress must also be provided in accordance with Section 2.7. of the BCFC. The use of dead-end aisles in storage areas should be minimized because of the potential hazard they create with respect to egress. Access aisles required in Sentence (2) include aisles to fire department access panels, or to fire protection equipment such as sprinkler control valves, fire hose stations, portable extinguishers and manual stations.

Sentences (4) to (8) prescribe requirements for main access aisles in the storage area. More than one main access aisle may be required depending on the storage configuration and alternate arrangements to a single main access aisle are permitted in Sentence (7). These requirements are in addition to the general requirement for 2.4 m aisles separating individual storage areas. The width of subsidiary aisles within individual storage areas is determined by material handling needs.

Fire department access to a storage area can be by means of doors or access panels on exterior walls, or through doors from another fire compartment in the building, provided that fire compartment in turn has adequate fire department access. The access points should be as remote from each other as possible. Where practicable, the preferred arrangement is for main aisles to terminate at exterior doors on opposite sides of the building.

Where stored products are liable to expand with the absorption of water, there exists a significant danger of collapse of the products into the aisles. It does not matter whether the products are in racks or not, nor whether the water comes from hose streams or sprinklers. Examples of such products include certain paper products and baled rags. Numerous firefighters have been killed through being crushed by falling products, or through being trapped after their escape routes have become blocked by fallen products. Special consideration should be given in these cases to rack design, aisle widths and layout to prevent such hazards or to minimize their effect.

A-3.2.2.3.(2)    In unsprinklered buildings, a clear space is required above the storage to permit hose streams to be directed onto the top of storage.

A-3.2.2.3.(5)    Clearance between stored products and heating equipment must also be maintained in conformance with Section 2.6. of the British Columbia Fire Code, which references Part 6 of the British Columbia Building Code for installation requirements for heating systems. All stored combustible materials should be kept away from hot elements of heating equipment.

A-3.2.2.4.(3)    Section 7-5 of NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems,” gives sprinkler system design criteria for areas where combustible pallets are stored, based on the height, area and type of pallets.

A-3.2.3.2.(2)    For self-contained, multi-tiered structural rack or shelf systems, the storage height should be determined as the height from the lowest floor level to the top of storage on the uppermost tier.

A-3.2.3.3.(2)    NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems,” does not provide sufficient information on the design of sprinkler systems in buildings used for the storage of closed containers of distilled beverage alcohol. Design criteria representing good engineering practice for such sprinkler systems are available in such documents as Data Sheet 8-8, “Distilled Spirits Storage,” published by FM Global.

A-3.2.4.2.(1)    The volume of tires in a storage area can be determined by measuring to the nearest 0.1 m the length, width and height of the piles or racks intended to contain the tires. In racks, the top shelf is assumed to be loaded to maximum possible height, while observing required clearances between structural elements and sprinklers.

A-3.2.5.1.(1)    Aerosol products that are displayed in mercantile occupancies represent a lower hazard and do not require specific storage limits or additional fire protection provided they have been removed from their combustible cartons or cartons have been display-cut so that only the bottom and the lowest 50 mm of the side panels is retained. The storage of packaged aerosols in mercantile occupancies shall nevertheless conform to this Subsection.

A-3.2.5.2.(1)    This Code has adopted the aerosol classification system developed by the National Fire Protection Association in NFPA 30B, “Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products.”

Examples of Level 1 aerosol products include shaving cream, spray starch, window cleaners, alkaline oven cleaners, rug shampoos, some air fresheners and some insecticides. These aerosols are less hazardous than Level 2 or Level 3 aerosols, and represent a storage hazard comparable to Class III commodities.

Examples of Level 2 water-miscible flammable base aerosol products include most personal care products such as deodorants (except for oil-based antiperspirants), and hair sprays. They may also include antiseptics and anesthetics, some furniture polishes and windshield de-icers. Level 2 aerosols are less hazardous than Level 3 aerosols.

Examples of Level 3 aerosol products include some automotive products such as engine and carburetor cleaners, undercoats and lubricants; some wood polishes, paints and lacquers; some insecticides; and oil based antiperspirants.

In Canada, some aerosol products are required by the “Controlled Products Regulations,” the “Consumer Chemicals and Containers Regulations,” and certain other legislation to bear flammability hazard symbols. The nature of the symbol on the can is determined on the basis of a flame projection test, which measures the susceptibility of the aerosol spray to ignite; this is most important for protecting consumers who, for example, might be smoking while using an aerosol product. A direct comparison between the flammability hazard symbols used in Canadian regulations and the NFPA Level 1, 2 or 3 classification system used in the BCFC is not reliable as the latter measures the overall contribution of flammable base product, combined with flammable gas propellant, to the rate of growth and severity of a fire involving a substantial number of aerosols.

A-3.2.7.3.(1)(b)    Part 4 of the BCFC specifies ventilation rates to prevent the buildup of dangerous concentrations of flammable vapours in rooms used for storing flammable and combustible liquids. The same principles should apply to dangerous goods capable of releasing toxic gases, or where the accidental mixing of incompatible substances could generate flammable vapours or toxic gases. Where no guidance is given, the design of the ventilation system should conform to good engineering practice. Recommendations in the National Fire Protection Association standards, or in the document “Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended Practice,” produced by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists, are considered examples of good engineering practice.

A-3.2.7.6.(1)    Where combinations of incompatible dangerous goods are marked with an X in Table 3.2.7.6., they shall be stored in separate fire compartments. The fire-resistance rating of the fire separations shall be determined by applicable requirements of the Code. For example, when oxidizing or reactive substances are involved, Sentences 3.2.7.5.(6) and (7) would require a 2 h rating. For flammable and combustible liquids, Subsection 4.2.9. may be used and would require a 1 h or 2 h rating depending on the quantities involved. For compressed gases, Subsection 3.2.8. may be used and would require a 1 h or 2 h rating depending on the type of gases. For aerosols, Subsection 3.2.5. could be used following the same reasoning.

A-3.2.7.6.(2)    It is assumed that Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) will in many cases be provided as part of the documentation for the “Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations,” or the “Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System.”

The following are examples of basic principles that should apply to any storage situation involving dangerous goods:

• Chemicals should not be stored using an alphabetical sequence system but should be grouped according to compatibility.
• Organic materials should not be stored with either strong acids or oxidizers.
• Alkalis should not be stored with strong acids or chlorinated hydrocarbons.
• Strong acids should not be stored with oxidizers.
• Sulphites, bisulphites and sulphides should not be stored with acids.

Poisonous chemicals should not be stored together on the basis that they are poisons, but rather on the basis of compatibility. As with the storage of all chemicals, the primary consideration is what might happen in the event of a mishap causing them to be mixed. For instance, the following are all classified as Class 6.1 poisonous substances but will cause serious problems when mixed in the presence of water (such as water used for fire fighting purposes):

• sodium azide + dimethyl sulphate = explosion;
• sodium cyanide + anhydrous chloral = highly toxic vapour cloud.

Poisonous substances should not be stored in the vicinity of chemicals that are designated as B.P., B.P.C., U.S.P., F.C.C. and N.F. grades. Many of these chemicals find their way into cosmetics, pharmaceutical drugs and foodstuffs. A spill of poisonous substance would not only cause contamination of the product itself, but also of the outside of the container and of the clean room in which they are processed.

A-3.2.7.9.(1)    So many types, quantities, and concentrations of dangerous goods could be present in a building that setting maximum quantities allowed in unprotected buildings is very difficult. The hazard presented by the dangerous goods is not necessarily a function of their inherent flammability, but rather a function of their potential for hampering fire fighting. If the area involved in dangerous goods storage is large enough, the owner must provide some degree of built-in automatic fire suppression for the building. Therefore, the point at which installation of an active fire suppression system becomes mandatory is based on the total area involved in dangerous goods storage, regardless of the product stored.

The active fire suppression system intended is a sprinkler system, installed throughout the building, not just in the area of dangerous goods storage. The objective is to control both a fire originating in a spot remote from the dangerous goods, so that it never threatens the dangerous goods, and a fire involving the dangerous goods themselves. Even if a fire originates in a dangerous good on which water should not be applied (stored pesticides for example), sprinklers may provide better control than alternative fire fighting measures. A sprinkler system should control the fire, limit its spread, and minimize the number of containers that fail. The sprinkler alarm will notify responsible persons who can take corrective action while the fire is small. The amount of water applied to the pesticide by the sprinklers will be small in comparison to what will have to be applied by hose streams once the fire is established.

Article 2.1.3.6. in the British Columbia Fire Code refers to the British Columbia Building Code, which sets the basic criteria for sprinkler systems. These criteria may not be appropriate for specific dangerous goods. For example, water may not be the best extinguishing agent to use on a particular product. In such cases, special arrangements may be required, such as isolating that product in an unsprinklered room protected by a fixed fire suppression system conforming to Article 6.6.1.1.

It is assumed that the fire suppression system will be designed by persons experienced in such design, using good engineering practice to establish design criteria, such as type of suppressant to use, and rate of application.

A-3.2.7.10.(1)    Venting of smoke and other products of combustion can be achieved by opening roof vents, breaking skylights, removing panels or opening windows. Smoke and hot gases should be vented directly to the outside.

A-3.2.7.12.(2)    Access to at least 2 sides of a building used for the storage of dangerous goods is required so that, if necessary, fire fighting operations can be set up on the upwind side of the building to minimize the adverse effects of toxic smoke.

A-3.2.7.12.(3)    Protective clothing worn by firefighters in a fire involving dangerous goods is bulkier than the usual fire fighting turn-out gear. Therefore, Sentence 3.2.7.12.(3) requires access openings into buildings used for the storage of dangerous goods to be wider than otherwise required by the British Columbia Building Code.

A-3.2.7.13.(1)    Firefighters need to identify the substances they may encounter in a building during a fire. Labelling of products to comply with the “Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System” (WHMIS) or other provincial or federal regulations is deemed to satisfy this requirement.

A-3.2.7.14.(1)    One or more placards at the door into a room used for the storage of dangerous goods are required to inform firefighters that dangerous goods are contained within. In larger storage areas containing a variety of dangerous goods in different individual storage areas, each individual storage area should have placards.

A-3.2.8.2.(1)(d)    When a flammable mixture of air and vapour/gas/dust is ignited and causes an explosion, the exothermic reaction results in the rapid expansion of heated gases and the corresponding pressure waves travel through the mixture at sonic or supersonic velocities. The pressures developed by an explosion very rapidly reach levels that most buildings and equipment cannot withstand unless specifically designed to do so. Explosion venting consists of devices designed to open at a predetermined pressure to relieve internal pressure buildup inside a room or enclosure, hence limiting the structural and mechanical damage.

The major parameters to be considered in designing an explosion venting system for a building are:

• the physical and chemical properties of the flammable air mixture, such as the particle size or the droplet diameter, the moisture content, the minimum ignition temperature and explosive concentration, the burning velocity or explosibility classification, the maximum explosion pressure and the rate of pressure rise,
• the concentration and dispersion of the flammable mixture in the room,
• the turbulence and physical obstructions in the room,
• the size and shape of the room, the type of construction and its ability to withstand internal pressures, and
• the type, size and location of relief panels, which should also be designed to reduce the possibility of injury to people in the immediate vicinity of the panels.

A-3.2.8.2.(2)    Table A-3.2.8.2(2) gives the specific volume (m³/kg) of some common gases at normal temperature and pressure. This information is available from the manufacturer's literature and can be used to convert gas weight (kg) into gas expanded volume (m³), and vice versa. Cylinder data for industrial gases can also be found in Data Sheet 7-50, “Compressed Gases in Cylinders,” published by FM Global.

A-3.2.9.1.(1)    The chemical composition of ammonium nitrate is [NH₄NO₃], which makes it an inorganic nitrate. It comes in granular, prilled, flaked, crystalline or solid forms. Ammonium nitrate is manufactured in two densities used for different purposes and is treated with a wax or clay protective coating to prevent moisture absorption, which causes caking of the product.

High-density ammonium nitrate is a fertilizer used in the agricultural sector. Subsection 3.2.9. applies only to ammonium nitrate mixtures designated as Class 5.1 dangerous goods, which may be composed of as little as 45% ammonium nitrate. Sentence 3.2.9.1.(1) increases the maximum exempt amount stated in Table 3.2.7.1. from 250 kg to 1 000 kg.

Low-density ammonium nitrate, when sensitized, is a blasting explosive used in the mining and construction sectors. When a carbonaceous or organic substance, such as fuel or diesel oil, nut hulls, or carbon black, is added and admixed with ammonium nitrate, the mixture may become a blasting explosive. This Code does not apply to ammonium-nitrate-based blasting explosives.

Blasting explosives are classified as Class 1 dangerous goods; their storage is regulated under the Explosives Act and its Regulations, published by Natural Resources Canada.

A-3.2.9.2.(6)    Copper and its alloys should not be used where they can come into contact with ammonium nitrate. The presence of copper represents the single biggest hazard with respect to the accidental detonation of ammonium nitrate during a fire.

Steel and wood can be protected with special coatings such as sodium silicate, epoxy, or polyvinyl chloride.

Asphalt and similar hydrocarbon-based roof coverings should not be used. Stored ammonium nitrate may become sensitized during a fire if such roof coverings melt and leak into the interior of the building, causing burning droplets to fall on the stored product.

A-3.2.9.2.(7)    The minimum spatial separation stated in Subsection 3.2.3. of the British Columbia Building Code may be increased by the authority having jurisdiction with respect to the nearness of assembly, institutional, residential and mercantile occupancies regarding the proximity of these exposures and congested commercial or industrial areas with due consideration to the exposure of toxic vapours from fires involving ammonium nitrate.

A-3.2.9.3.(1)    It is recommended that electric or LP-gas-powered industrial trucks be used rather than gasoline- or diesel-fuelled ones so as to reduce the potential for contamination of the ammonium nitrate.

A-3.2.9.4.(1)    Dry chemical extinguishers are not permitted to be used to fight fires involving ammonium nitrate, but may be used to extinguish fires involving industrial trucks, conveyors, etc.

A-3.3.1.1.(1)(d)    Hogged material can be described as mill waste consisting mainly of hogged bark but may include a mixture of bark, chips, dust, or other by-products from trees. This also includes material designated as hogged fuel.

A-3.3.1.1.(1)(e)    Factory-assembled combustible structures, such as mobile or modular homes and office trailers, that are transportable in one or more sections, are designated as manufactured buildings in this Section.

A-3.3.1.1.(2)(c)    An intermodal shipping container can be described as a standard sized reusable structure into which commodities are packed and designed to be used in more than one mode of transportation.

A-3.3.1.1.(2)(g)    Treated forest products are those that have been coated or impregnated with flammable or combustible liquids. Ranked piles are typically piles of logs evenly arranged by conveyor, crane or other means.

A-3.3.2.6.(2)    The width and location of gates in a fire department access route should take into account the connection with public thoroughfares, width of the roadway, radius of curves, and the type and size of fire department vehicles available in the municipality or area where the storage site is located. Padlocks that can be forced and replaced are preferred by fire departments for easy access to the storage site.

A-3.3.3.2.(1)    Where the adjoining property is land that may be built upon or used for storage, it is intended that the required clearance be maintained between the stored products and the property line. If the adjoining property does not present a fire exposure hazard, such as a street, right of way, watercourse, or park land, the required clearance could be beyond the property line. In all cases, care should be taken that the storage close to the property line does not defeat the purpose of other safety measures prescribed in this Code.

A-4.1.1.1.(1)    The all-inclusive phrase “buildings, structures and open areas” includes, but is not limited to, tank farms, bulk plants, fuel-dispensing stations, industrial plants, refineries, process plants, distilleries, and to piers, wharves and airports that are not subject to overriding federal control.

Part 4 of the BCFC applies wherever flammable or combustible liquids are used or stored, except as specifically exempted in Sentences 4.1.1.1.(2) and (3).

Part 4 contains both general and occupancy-specific provisions. While general provisions apply to all occupancies or operations identified within the scope of Subsection 4.1.1., occupancy-specific provisions apply only to the specific occupancy or operation stated.

To determine the provisions that apply to a given situation, the first step is to confirm which Section or Subsection corresponds to the operation or occupancy: this will help identify the occupancy-specific provisions that apply. The next step is to ensure that all general requirements that apply to the operation or occupancy are also identified.

A-4.1.1.1.(2)    Certain areas in refineries, chemical plants and distilleries will not meet all Code requirements because of extraordinary conditions. Design should be based on good engineering practice and on such factors as manual fire suppression equipment, daily inspections, automated transfer systems, location of processing units, and special containment systems, piping, controls and materials used. NFPA 30, “Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code,” and NFPA 36, “Solvent Extraction Plants,” are examples of good engineering practice and can be referred to by the designer and the authority having jurisdiction.

A-4.1.1.1.(3)(b)    Ancillary equipment covered in CAN/CSA-B139, “Installation Code for Oil-Burning Equipment,” includes storage tanks and piping that supply oil-burning equipment and diesel-engine-driven emergency generators. Part 4 of the BCBC does not apply to such tanks and piping systems.

A-4.1.2.1.    The classification system for flammable liquids used by the “Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations” (TDGR) differs from the NFPA classification system used in the BCFC. In the BCFC, only liquids with a flash point below 37.8°C are referred to as “flammable liquids,” whereas liquids having a flash point at or above 37.8°C are “combustible liquids.” In contrast, the TDGR, which regulate “flammable liquids” as Class 3 dangerous goods, define “flammable liquids” as liquids having a flash point below 60.5°C. Therefore, the TDGR term “flammable liquids” includes Class II liquids (with a maximum flash point of 60°C), which are referred to as “combustible liquids” in the BCFC terminology. The TDGR do not include Class IIIA liquids, which have a flash point above 60°C.

For the purpose of comparing the TDGR classification system with the BCFC system, the difference between 60.5°C (TDGR) and 60°C (BCFC) may be ignored. The results of closed-cup flash point tests may vary by as much as 1°C, so nothing is gained by unnecessary precision.

A-4.1.2.1.(3)(b)    The NFPA classification system for flammable and combustible liquids includes Class IIIB liquids, which have flash points at or above 93.3°C. These liquids are not regulated by Part 4 of the BCFC because they are deemed to represent no greater fire hazard than other combustibles, such as wood or paper products. However, Article 4.1.2.2. clarifies that such liquids are effectively Class I liquids when heated to their flash point temperature.

A-4.1.2.3.    Used automotive lubricating oil may contain both oil and more volatile Class I liquids, such as gasoline. Tests of representative samples have demonstrated that the flash point of such used oil consistently exceeds 60°C, with an average above 93.3°C. When Class I or II liquids are added to such used oil, the flash point of the resulting mixture will vary with the percentage and flammability of the contaminating liquid and shall be determined by tests.

A-4.1.3.1.    The kinematic viscosity of a liquid influences the choice of test most appropriate for measuring its flash point. For measurement of kinematic viscosity, the ASTM standards referenced use units of centistokes, or stokes. In Canada, the unit used for kinematic viscosity is mm²/s (cgs), not stokes or centistokes. One centistoke has units of 1 millimetre squared per second (1 mm²/s).

For purposes of comparison, the kinematic viscosity of water is 1.0038 mm²/s at 20°C; of glycerine, approximately 1 185 mm²/s; and of some common motor oils, near 1 000 mm²/s. Some paints, lacquers and glues have much higher kinematic viscosities, as indicated by the upper limit of 15 000 mm²/s in ASTM D 3278, “Flash Point of Liquids by Small Scale Closed-Cup Apparatus.”

The viscosity at which a liquid should no longer be treated as a liquid is addressed in NFPA 30, “Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code.” The definition of “liquid” in that document states that “any material that has a fluidity greater than that of 300 penetration asphalt, when tested in accordance with ASTM D 5, “Penetration of Bituminous Materials,” is considered to be a liquid.

A-4.1.4.1.(1)    Additional information on determining the extent of Division 1 or 2 zones in Class I locations can be found in CSA PLUS 2203 HAZLOC, “Hazardous Locations: A Guide for the Design, Testing, Construction, and Installation of Equipment in Explosive Atmospheres,” in NFPA 30, “Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code,” and in NFPA 497, “Classification of Flammable Liquids, Gases or Vapors and of Hazardous (Classified) Locations for Electrical Installations in Chemical Process Areas.”

A-4.1.5.2.(1)    Sources of ignition include, but are not limited to, open flames, smoking, cutting and welding, hot surfaces, frictional heat, static, electrical and mechanical sparks, spontaneous ignition, heat-producing chemical reactions, and radiant heat.

A-4.1.5.8.    Limited quantities of Class I liquids are permitted to be stored or used in basements where it is clear they will not create a fire hazard. Such factors as the size of the basement, ventilation, wiring, and proximity to sources of ignition should be taken into account in determining whether an unsafe condition exists.

A-4.1.6.1.(1)    A spill containment system is intended to capture the maximum credible spill of a flammable or combustible liquid. This can be achieved by safely containing the liquid or having it drain to a safe location. Water used for firefighting need not be taken into consideration when determining the capacity of the primary spill containment or drainage system required by Sentence 4.1.6.1.(1).

Once a fire is associated with a spill, water from hose streams, suppression systems, etc. used for fire fighting becomes a concern. The quantity of water involved is highly variable as it will depend on the fire conditions and the duration of the fire. As a result, the fire safety plan must address spill management associated with the application of water during fire fighting operations.

Estimating credible spill capacity

The capacity of a credible spill must be based on the maximum quantity that can be released from containers located in the storage area.

• Where the storage—inside and/or outside—is in drums or small containers (not large vessels, Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC), tote bins or tanks), the capacity of a credible spill should be at least 1 000 L. This will accommodate a spill in the event that lift truck forks spear a single pallet load containing four drums or drop the load. Where drums are not handled on pallets and hand trucks or clamp-type lift trucks are used, the capacity of credible spill may be reduced, but not to less than the capacity of the largest container used.
• For storage in IBC, tote bins or other bulk containers inside or outside buildings, and in tanks inside buildings, the credible spill capacity must be at least equal to the capacity of the largest container in the storage area.
• Outside storage tanks must comply with the provisions of Subsection 4.3.7.

Consideration for the fire safety plan

The fire safety plan must ensure that all critical areas, such as buildings, means of egress, fire department access, control valves, fire alarm panels, etc., in the path of a potential overflow remain accessible during the fire emergency and that the flow of liquid is directed away from such areas. The plan must allow for reliable and immediate notification of an emergency, such as by providing an automatic notification system, which will facilitate early intervention by the fire department. The plan must incorporate measures, including design features, that will minimize the impact of effluent on adjoining property and the environment.

The owner of the building is responsible for developing the fire safety plan. The owner may require assistance from the fire department, which can provide some of the relevant information necessary to develop a workable plan. The owner is also responsible for having the plan approved by the chief fire official and for ensuring the approved plan is implemented. Periodic (e.g. annual) testing of the plan would help identify any limitations of the plan and familiarize staff who have been assigned duties in the plan. The fire safety plan must be modified when original assumptions and conditions change.

Where small quantities are present

• Where only small quantities (up to 5 000 L) of flammable or combustible liquids are present, acceptable measures to control a spill of the liquids and the water used for fire fighting include the provision of manhole or catch-basin covers, sorbent materials and portable dikes. Such measures can prevent contaminated effluents from entering sewers or flowing to other areas.
• For additional information on controlling a spill, reference should be made to NFPA 30, NFPA 15, FM Global Data Sheet 7-83, the SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering and other industry-specific publications on the subject.

Where large quantities are present

• Where a facility stores, handles or processes significant quantities (exceeding 5 000 L) of flammable or combustible liquids, a high level of expertise may be required to develop an appropriate fire safety plan. In such cases, the owner must ensure that professionals who have expertise in this area play a lead role in developing and implementing the fire safety plan.
• Where the application of a fire suppression medium, either manual or automatic, may result in significant adverse impact on the community and/or the environment, a controlled burn is an option to consider. Evaluating this option should involve key stakeholders such as the owner, fire department, provincial and/or federal department responsible for the environment, and insurers.

A-4.1.6.2.(2)    The British Columbia Plumbing Code defines a trap as a fitting or device that is designed to hold a liquid seal that will prevent the passage of gas but will not materially affect the flow of a liquid.

A-4.1.6.3.(3)(b)    Information on the compatibility and reactivity of liquids can be found in the Material Safety Data Sheets for each liquid.

An absorbent material conforming to ULC/ORD-C410A, “Absorbents for Flammable and Combustible Liquids,” is acceptable.

A-4.1.7.1.(1)    Article 3.3.1.19. of the British Columbia Building Code specifies that ventilation must be provided in conformance with Part 6 of that Code if flammable vapour, gas, or dust could create a fire or explosion hazard. However, Part 6 of the British Columbia Building Code does not provide specific information on the design of ventilation systems to prevent an accumulation of dangerous concentrations of flammable vapours. It refers instead to "good engineering practice" and directs the user to a number of NFPA standards for examples of good practice, depending on the nature of the vapours or dusts. Subsection 4.1.7. of the British Columbia Fire Code represents a minimum level of "good practice" for preventing an accumulation of explosive concentrations of vapours from flammable or combustible liquids.

In the phrase “rooms or enclosed spaces”, the word “rooms” is not meant to be limited to small and confined areas of a building. It shall include large open areas of a building as well as smaller rooms.

A-4.1.7.2.(3)    Natural ventilation is normally adequate for the storage of flammable liquids and combustible liquids, or the dispensing of Class II and IIIA liquids. Such ventilation should consist of permanent openings at ceiling and floor levels leading to the outside. At least 0.1 m² each of free inlet and outlet openings per 50 m² of floor area should be provided. A mechanical ventilation rate of at least 18 m³/h per square metre of floor area, but not less than 250 m³/h, is normally adequate for rooms with low floor to ceiling height or small enclosed spaces where Class I liquids are dispensed. Ventilation for process areas must be designed to suit the nature of the hazard in accordance with good engineering practice.

A-4.1.8.2.(1)(b)    Build-up of static electric charges near the surface of liquids being poured into non-conducting containers can be controlled or eliminated by: limiting the filling rate to velocities less than 1 m/s, using a grounded lance or nozzle extension to the bottom of the container, limiting free fall, or using antistatic additives.

A-4.1.8.2.(3)(b)    It is generally considered that liquids with a conductivity greater than 50 pS/m (pico Siemens per metre) will dissipate static charges so that they will not accumulate to a hazardous potential. Experience indicates that most water-miscible liquids, crude oils, residual oils and asphalts do not accumulate static charges.

A-4.1.8.3.(1)    Products tested and listed by recognized agencies are considered to be designed in conformance with good engineering practice. Underwriters Laboratories Inc. and FM Global are currently listing these products.

A-4.2.2.3.(2)    Flammable and combustible liquids are classified as Class 3 dangerous goods in accordance with the “Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations.” Class 3 dangerous goods include liquids with flash points up to 60.5°C using the closed-cup test method, or 65.6°C using the open-cup test method. This means that Class IIIA liquids with a flash point above 61°C are not treated as dangerous goods. However, for the purposes of this Article, Class IIIA liquids should be treated as Class 3 dangerous goods as described in Table 3.2.7.6.

A-4.2.5.3.(1)    Article 4.2.5.3. addresses the potential hazard where flammable vapours are released during transfer operations in an improperly ventilated area, and where sources of ignition may not be adequately controlled. It is not intended to prohibit the opening of small containers in retail areas of paint stores for the purpose of tinting paints.

A-4.2.7.5.(2)    Sentence 4.2.7.5.(2) sets no limit to the total quantity of flammable and combustible liquids in a separate or detached storage building. Although total quantity limits of Tables 4.2.7.5.A and 4.2.7.5.B do not apply, the quantity and height limitations specified for the individual storage areas must be complied with in order to take advantage of the exemption for total quantity limits. Requirements pertaining to spatial separation of buildings are found in Subsection 3.2.3. of the British Columbia Building Code. The requirements in this Code for the storage of flammable and combustible liquids must be read in conjunction with applicable provisions in the British Columbia Building Code that impose restrictions on the design of a storage building. For example, the size and height of a building, type of construction, automatic fire suppression and street access are governed in part by Subsection 3.2.2. of the British Columbia Building Code. Environmental protection regulations may contain additional requirements that should be considered in the design of a storage building for flammable and combustible liquids.

A-4.2.7.6.(1)    Options for fixed fire suppression systems for protection of flammable or combustible liquid storage areas include: automatic sprinkler, foam sprinkler, water spray, carbon dioxide, dry chemical or halon systems. Section 6.8 and Annex D of NFPA 30, “Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code,” represent good engineering practice for design of sprinkler or foam water systems for flammable and combustible liquid storage areas.

A-4.2.7.7.(3)    Containers of flammable or combustible liquids could be punctured or deformed if pushed up against a protrusion from a wall. The required wall clearance is intended to prevent such damage, and to permit visual inspection of the sides of the individual storage area. The clearance need not be provided for narrow shelves along a wall, where the backs of the shelves can be inspected from the aisle.

A-4.2.8.1.(1)    Subsection 4.2.8. applies to those portions of an industrial occupancy where the use, storage and handling of flammable and combustible liquids is only incidental, or secondary to the principal activity. The word “incidental” does not imply “small quantity” or “insignificant amount.” Manufacturers of electronic equipment, furniture and reinforced plastic boats, and automobile assembly plants are typical examples of locations where the use of flammable and combustible liquids is secondary to the principal activity of manufacturing consumer products. In storage areas otherwise governed by Part 3 applies to the “incidental” storage of flammable and combustible liquids that is deemed to be secondary to the principal activity of storing commodities covered in Subsection 4.2.8. This includes the storage of used lubricating oil in the warehouse portion (industrial occupancy) of a retail outlet. Part 3 also applies to the storage of used lubricating oil at motor vehicle repair and service garages because such storage is secondary to the principal activity of repairing and servicing motor vehicles.

A-4.2.8.3.(1)    The fire separation required by this Sentence should also prevent the passage of vapours.

A-4.3.1.8.(1)(b)    Examples of devices to prevent overfill include automatic sensing devices for interconnection with shut-off equipment at the supply vehicle, automatic overfill shut-off devices of a float valve or other mechanical type, vent restriction devices, and overfill alarm devices of the audible or visual type.

A-4.3.2.1.(4)    Boil-over is an event in the burning of certain oils in an open top tank when, after a long period of quiescent burning, there is a sudden increase in fire intensity associated with expulsion of burning oil from the tank. Boil-over occurs when the residues from surface burning become more dense than the unburned oil and sink below the surface to form a hot layer, which progresses downward much faster than the regression of the liquid surface. When this hot layer, called a “heat wave,” reaches water or water-in-oil emulsion in the bottom of the tank, the water is first superheated and subsequently boils almost explosively, overflowing the tank. Oils subject to boil-over consist of both light ends and viscous residues. These characteristics are present in most crude oils and can be produced in synthetic mixtures.

Note: A boil-over is an entirely different phenomenon from a slop-over or a froth-over. Slop-over involves a minor frothing that occurs when water is sprayed onto the hot surface of a burning oil. Froth-over is not associated with a fire but results when water is present or enters a tank containing hot viscous oil. Upon mixing, the sudden conversion of water to steam causes a portion of the tank contents to overflow.

A-4.3.2.5.    Guidelines for the protection of storage tanks can also be found in standards published by the National Fire Protection Association, Insurers' Advisory Organization (1989) Inc., GE Insurance Solutions and FM Global. Such guidelines are considered as good engineering practice in assessing the protection necessary for tanks.

A-4.3.7.5.(1)    When the height of a secondary containment wall exceeds 1.8 m, there is an increased potential for heavier-than-air vapour to accumulate at ground level within the contained area. Depending on the nature of such a vapour accumulation, it may be explosive or sufficiently toxic to seriously endanger personnel. Entry into such a contained area should always be preceded by testing for such a vapour accumulation.

A-4.3.7.5.(2)    Vapours from Class I liquids may reach unsafe concentrations when confined in the small space between the tank and the secondary containment wall. Remotely operated valves or elevated walkways eliminate the need for personnel to enter the bottom of the contained area to operate a valve.

A-4.3.8.8.(1)    The purpose of anchoring or providing overburden on top of underground storage tanks is to prevent them from lifting out of the ground in the event of a rise in the water table or a flood. Any proposed means of anchorage or overburden must be sufficient to resist the uplift forces on tanks when they are empty and completely submerged.

Means that have been successfully employed to protect tanks against uplift are

(a)  anchor straps to concrete supports beneath them,

(b)  ground anchors, and

(c)  reinforced concrete slabs or planks on top of them.

A-4.3.12.7.(1)(b)    The area that should be considered for ventilation is the space occupied by the tanks and extending to a distance that is classified electrically as Class I, Zone 2, when no ventilation is provided.

A-4.3.12.8.(1)    For the design of normal and emergency venting of indoor storage tanks, Sentence 4.3.12.8.(1) refers to Subsection 4.3.4., which in turn refers to API 2000, “Venting Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage Tanks: Nonrefrigerated and Refrigerated.” However, API 2000 is intended for outdoor tanks rather than indoor tanks. The venting rate reduction factors for water spray on the tank surface, or drainage rates for spilled liquids, should not be used to calculate the emergency venting rate of a storage tank installed inside a building. The effects of water spray cooling, and room drainage on the calculated emergency venting rate must be worked out according to good engineering practice. Increased emergency venting capacity may be required.

A-4.3.12.9.(2)    Good engineering practice for the design of supports for suspended storage tanks should meet the intent of Subsection 4.3.3. as much as possible. Such factors as the provision of adequate fire resistance for supports, the need to prevent over-stressing of the tank shell or its supports, and resistance to earthquake forces in areas subject to such forces, should be taken into consideration.

A-4.3.13.4.(1)    Small diameter hose stations are not intended for fighting a flammable or combustible liquid fire. Such fires should be fought using fog nozzles rather than solid water streams, because solid streams may spread the liquid fuel and worsen the situation. The small diameter hoses permitted in lieu of extinguishers are intended to be used for prompt suppression of a small fire in ordinary combustibles, and for prompt wash-down of spilled flammable or combustible liquids, before any fire occurs.

A-4.3.15.1.(1)    The following documents are examples of good engineering practice for the activities listed in Sentence 4.3.15.(1):

• Annex C of NFPA 30, “Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code,”
• API RP 1604, “Closure of Underground Storage Tanks,”
• Part 9 of the “Environmental Code of Practice for Aboveground and Underground Storage Tank Systems Containing Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products,” published by the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment.

A-4.4.1.2.(6)    Owners and operators of systems can use a number of methodologies to meet or exceed the leak detection requirements in Section 4.4. A list of leak detection technologies is available from the National Work Group on Leak Detection Evaluations (NWGLDE). The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has delegated authority to the NWGLDE to determine which test methodologies meet the testing protocol of the EPA.

A-4.4.2.1.(3)    Other referenced documents also deal with vapour monitoring, such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) document, “Evaluating Leak Detection Methods: Vapor-Phase Out-of-Tank Product Detectors.” Other referenced documents also deal with groundwater monitoring, such as the EPA protocol, “Evaluating Leak Detection Methods: Liquid-Phase Out-of-Tank Product Detectors.”

A-4.4.2.1.(6)    A continuous in-tank leak detection system involves a combination of statistical inventory reconciliation (SIR) techniques and good quality liquid level and temperature data, which can be obtained from tank gauging systems or probes. It may involve monitoring only a storage tank, but when the piping system is part of the delivery system, it should include the entire system.

This system provides increased sensitivity and accuracy for the following reasons:

• it incorporates the temperature characteristic and an increased frequency of readings into the data, and
• inventory reconciliation may be conducted after each dispensing operation.

The system is designed to meet the monitoring performance standard of detecting a leak rate of 0.76 L/h with a 95% probability of detection and a maximum false positive of 5%.

A-4.4.2.1.(7)    Low-tech secondary containment monitoring involves a visual examination of the containment area, including conventional open dyke areas or a contiguous interstitial space. Some designs may use visual examination of the liquid gauges, sumps and collection pits.

A-4.4.2.1.(8)(b)(ii)    The presence or location of leaks in aboveground tanks can be determined through various testing methods, including ultrasonic, magnetic particle and video graphic testing. The location of leaks in the bottom of a tank shell can also be determined by vacuum testing. All testing should be conducted by individuals or companies trained in the proper care and use of the testing equipment. The choice of test methodology should be appropriate for the application.

A-4.4.2.1.(10)(b)(ii)    The location of leaks in underground storage tanks can be determined through non-volumetric testing, which includes acoustical, tracer and external product detection methods. The location of leaks in the bottom of a tank shell can also be determined by vacuum testing. All testing should be conducted by individuals or companies trained in the proper care and use of the testing equipment. The choice of test methodology shall be appropriate for the application.

A-4.4.2.1.(12)    Locating the single vertical check valve anywhere other than immediately under the pump will require an alternate method of line leak detection for the piping system.

A-4.4.4.1.    Inventory reconciliation and liquid level measurements can only be conducted on storage tanks that have a metered pump, dispenser or some other type of measuring device that can determine the amount of product withdrawn over a specific period of time. Other leak detection methods must be used for piping systems and storage tanks without meters or measuring devices.

Inventory reconciliation leak detection methods used for a storage tank should follow an established procedure in order to minimize errors and determine any trend that indicates a loss of product from the tank.

The recording of pump meter readings, shipments, internal transfers, product delivery receipts or measurements of the level of contents of a storage tank shall not in and of itself constitute a record as required by Article 4.4.4.1. In addition, suppliers of flammable and combustible liquids should provide their customers with sufficient data to conduct proper inventory reconciliation. Inventories, which have been adjusted for volume through temperature compensation, must also be available to operators by volume according to meter measurements.

Inventory reconciliation is not to be confused with statistical inventory reconciliation (SIR), which is a third-party computerized analysis of tank operator inventory data.

Indications of a potential leak from inventory reconciliation practice include:

(a)  any unexplained loss or gain of 0.5 percent or more of the throughput from an underground storage tank or a loss of 2.0 percent or more of the throughput from an aboveground storage tank noted for each stored product in a calendar month, as indicated by the recording and reconciliation of inventory records,

(b)  inventory reconciliations showing five consecutive days of unexplained product losses,

(c)  inventory reconciliations showing 18 days of unexplained losses in one calendar month,

(d)  the level of water at the bottom of an underground storage tank exceeding 50 mm,

(e)  a precision leak detection test that indicates a loss or gain of product,

(f)  a pipe leak detection test that indicates a loss of product,

(g)  analysis or other method that provides evidence of product in a monitoring well or drinking water well,

(h)  the presence of free or dissolved product—whether on-site or offsite—in the soil, groundwater, surface water, sewer lines, utility lines, water supply lines, basements, crawl space or on the ground surface, or

(i)  the triggering of any warning systems associated with monitoring devices.

A-4.5.6.11.(1)    It is good practice to space hangers for pipe having a nominal diameter of 50 mm or less not more than 3.5 m apart.

A-4.5.9.2.(1)    Sentence 4.5.9.2.(1) is not intended to apply to small-capacity pumps that operate at low pressures, such as those normally associated with waste oil tanks. Safety measures should nevertheless be taken to protect the pump from mechanical and collision damage, and to control any spillage of liquid resulting from pump damage or failure.

A-4.6.1.1.    Section 4.6 applies only to the portion of a property where fuel-dispensing operations are conducted. When a facility combines fuel-dispensing operations with other types of business (motor vehicle repair garage, convenience store, restaurant, etc.), Section 4.6. is intended to apply only to the fuel-dispensing operations and the adjacent business shall conform to other Sections of this Code based on its occupancy classification (assembly occupancy for a restaurant, mercantile occupancy for a convenience store, industrial occupancy for a repair garage, etc.).

A-4.6.8.4.(1)    The authorized holder of a card or key, having received adequate training in the safe and responsible operation of the equipment, is not considered a member of the “general public.” Such is not the case for coin-operated or preset dispensers, which can be operated by anyone.

A-4.6.8.6.(2)    When gasoline vapour is allowed to enter into a diesel-fuelled engine through the air intake, there is a potential for the diesel engine to run away. In a runaway condition, a diesel engine would accelerate in an uncontrolled manner even if the ignition were switched off, resulting in damage to the engine and potentially causing a fire.

A-4.6.8.8.(2)    Examples of signs to indicate that smoking is not permitted and that the engine ignition must be turned off while the vehicle is being refuelled:

Figure A-4.6.8.8.(2)

Fuel-dispensing station signs

A-4.7.4.    When used in this Subsection, the terms “loading” and “unloading” shall mean the loading and unloading of tank vehicles or tank cars.

A-4.7.4.4.(2)    Loading racks using bottom loading often load at high flow rates. The thermal expansion capacity at the top of the compartment is often insufficient to prevent an overfill if the requested volume does not fit the compartment (operator error or retain in the compartment). Overfill sensors must be designed to allow adequate time for the control valves to close before the compartment overfills. Retain sensors and/or a well established operator training program could achieve the same result.

A-4.7.4.5.    The standard API RP 2003, “Protection Against Ignitions Arising out of Static, Lightning and Stray Currents,” is an example of good engineering practice for the activities described in Article 4.7.4.5.

A-4.8.8.1.(1)(a)    Section 38 of the “Oil Pollution Prevention Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act,” published by Transport Canada, may apply to flexible cargo hoses described in this Code. The following documents are considered good engineering practice for this application:

“Guide to Purchasing, Manufacturing and Testing of Loading and Discharge Hoses for Offshore Moorings” prepared by the Oil Companies International Marine Forum. It can be obtained from: New York Nautical Instrument and Service Corporation, 158 Duane Street, New York, New York 10013 U.S.A.

“Hose Handbook” prepared by the Rubber Manufacturers Association, Inc. It can be obtained from: The Mail Room, P.O. Box 3147, Medina, Ohio 44258 U.S.A.

A-4.9.3.4.(1)    Examples of such equipment are dispensing stations, open centrifuges, plate and frame filters, open vacuum filters and surfaces of open equipment.

A-4.10.1.1.(1)    Beer, wine, and spirits that contain less than 20% by volume alcohol are not considered to be flammable liquids and are not regulated by this Section. Section 4.10 does not apply to wineries where distilled beverage alcohol is used to fortify wine.

A-4.10.3.2.    Exposed steel supports do not have a 2 h fire-resistance rating, and need protection as much as timber supports for tanks. Due to the water miscibility of beverage alcohols, automatic sprinklers provide an effective means of achieving the necessary protection, provided there is sufficient space under the tank to permit their installation.

A-4.10.3.3.(1)    The use of "good engineering practice" in the design of normal and emergency venting is intended to prevent an accumulation of flammable vapours inside the building that may present an explosion hazard. For new tank installations, this can be achieved by directing breather vents and emergency vents, equipped with flame arrestors or pressure/vacuum valves, to the outside of the building. However, on existing tank installations, installation of such vents may be impractical. Venting into the interior space may not constitute an undue hazard where certain measures are taken to ensure an adequate degree of fire safety. Such measures include, but are not limited to: installation of automatic sprinklers throughout the tank room and under any raised tanks greater than 1.2 m in diameter; classification of electrical equipment and wiring according to the zone classifications of the British Columbia Safety Standards Act and pursuant regulations; provision of adequate natural or mechanical ventilation meeting the objectives of Article 4.10.6.1.; and training of personnel in safe operating procedures.

A-4.10.5.1.(1)    Piping and pumping systems should be designed to recognized engineering standards and accepted industry practice.

A-5.1.2.1.(1)    In addition to the general requirements of the British Columbia Safety Standards Act and pursuant regulations, special attention must be given to Sections 18, 20 and 22. Section 18 specifies wiring requirements for Class I, II and III hazardous locations. Section 20 provides specific requirements for areas where flammable or combustible liquids are stored or dispensed. Section 22 specifies wiring requirements for areas where corrosive liquids or vapours or excessive moisture are present.

A-5.2.3.4.(1)(b)    The following documents are examples of good engineering practice as regards safety measures for the activities described in Clause 5.2.3.4.1.(b):

• API 2009, “Safe Welding and Cutting Practices in Refineries, Gasoline Plants and Petrochemical Plants,”
• API 2015, “Safe Entry and Cleaning of Petroleum Storage Tanks,”
• API 2201, “Welding or Hot Tapping on Equipment in Service,” and
• API 2207, “Preparing Tank Bottoms for Hot Work.”

A-5.3.1.3.(2)    NFPA standards on dust explosions include:

NFPA 61 “Prevention of Fires and Dust Explosions in Agricultural and Food Products Facilities,”

NFPA 91 “Exhaust Systems for Air Conveying of Vapors, Gases, Mists, and Noncombustible Particulate Solids,”

NFPA 120 “Coal Preparation Plants,”

NFPA 484 “Combustible Metals, Metal Powders, and Metal Dusts,”

NFPA 654 “Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible Particulate Solids,”

NFPA 655 “Prevention of Sulfur Fires and Explosions,”

NFPA 664 “Prevention of Fires and Explosions in Wood Processing and Woodworking Facilities.”

A-5.3.3.2.(2)    A conveyor belt having a surface resistivity of less than 300 megaohms is considered to provide protection against electrostatic charge accumulation in a grain handling facility.

A-5.5.1.1.(1)    The provisions in this Section apply only to laboratory operations involving the use of dangerous goods, including flammable or combustible liquids. They shall not apply to the incidental use of such substances or to their use for maintenance or cleaning purposes only, in which case, requirements in other sections of the Code would apply.

A-5.5.5.1.(1)    The intent of Sentence 5.5.5.1.(1) is to limit the quantities of dangerous goods that are

(a)  stored outside of storage areas and cabinets referred to in Sentences (2) and (3), and

(b)  kept in the laboratory on a permanent or semi-permanent basis, e.g. dangerous goods that are normally kept out overnight because they are frequently needed.

The intent is not to limit the quantities that are actually “in use” during normal operations, it being understood that experiments or processes may necessitate that greater quantities be brought into the laboratory for the duration of these operations.

Also, the phrase “kept in a laboratory” does not include dangerous goods that supply and are directly connected to appliances, equipment or apparatus as these dangerous goods are considered to be “in use” rather than “in storage.”

A-5.5.5.5.    Unstable substances are capable of a rapid release of energy by themselves. They are susceptible to reactions when exposed to air, water, pressure, heat, shock, vibration, light or sound waves. These reactions include vigorous polymerization or self-accelerating decomposition.

These substances must be stored, handled, used and processed in a location and manner that will prevent an undesired reaction. Material Safety Data Sheets provide guidance based on the properties of the unstable substance.

Perchloric acid is the most commonly used unstable substance in laboratories. Examples of other unstable substances are hydrazine, peracetic acid, picric acid and sodium hydride. Article 5.5.5.5. has been written specifically for perchloric acid and is not intended to be applied to other unstable substances unless they have properties similar to perchloric acid.

A-5.5.5.5.(2)    Water can only be used if the unstable substance is compatible. (Perchloric acid is an example of a substance that is compatible with water.) Material Safety Data Sheets indicate whether an unstable substance is compatible with water and provide guidance on the properties and other incompatibilities of the unstable substance.

A-5.6.1.1.(2)    In demolition operations in buildings that do not pose an exposure hazard to other buildings, or in which there is little fire hazard to occupants, as is the case with small buildings, the degree of application of Section 5.6. may be minimal. The degree of application should be determined in advance in conjunction with the authority having jurisdiction.

Construction projects can range from large multi-storey buildings to small single-storey residences and may include additions or renovations to existing buildings. The degree to which Section 5.6. should apply to each project should be determined in advance, as part of the fire safety plan for the construction project, taking into consideration such issues as the size of the project and the site conditions.

A-5.6.1.2.(2)(c)    The control of fire hazards in and around buildings being constructed, renovated or demolished includes fire protection for combustible construction materials and combustible refuse on the site. The sizes of piles of materials and refuse and the location of such piles in relation to adjacent buildings are factors that should be taken into consideration in determining which fire protection measures to implement. The selection of fire protection measures for demolition operations will also depend on the demolition procedure being used, the specific conditions existing on the site and the firefighting capabilities of the responding fire department.

It is the intent of this Code that requirements regarding the outdoor storage of materials stated in Section 3.3. be referred to and applied at construction and demolition sites.

A-5.6.1.2.(2)(d)    When demolition operations are in progress in a building of combustible construction, efforts should be made to keep any sprinkler systems in operation as long as possible in order to ensure added protection for the structure and the surrounding buildings.

A-5.6.1.4.(2)    Fire fighting in storeys above the first storey requires prompt vertical movement by fire department personnel. Provision shall be made for the use of elevators, hoists or lifts to assist such personnel in reaching the upper storeys of the building.

A-5.6.1.6.(2)    When the temperature causes freezing conditions, the standpipe should be drained to prevent damage to the equipment. It is not expected that hoses be made available in the building being demolished: they will be brought to the relevant floor by the responding fire department.

A-5.6.1.13.(3)    Guidance on methods of rendering inert tanks, piping and machinery reservoirs is available in NFPA 326, “Safeguarding of Tanks and Containers for Entry, Cleaning, or Repair.”

A-6.1.1.2.(1)    Both the British Columbia Building Code and the British Columbia Fire Code assume that all fire protection features of a building, whether required by Code or voluntarily installed, will be designed in conformance with good fire protection engineering practice and will meet the appropriate installation requirements in relevant standards. Such good design is necessary to ensure that the level of public safety established by the Code requirements is not reduced by a voluntary installation. Thus, a voluntarily installed system should be maintained in operating condition, at least to the extent that it was originally intended to function, in conformance with the applicable installation standards.

A-6.1.1.3.(1)    Notification of planned or emergency interruption or curtailment of service of fire protection installations is preferably given in advance when possible. The parties to be notified who could be affected may include, but are not necessarily limited to, the fire department, supervisory staff in the building and the occupants of the building.

A-6.1.1.4.(1)    Interruption of normal operation of a fire protection system for any purpose constitutes a “temporary shutdown.” Types of interruptions include, but are not limited to, periodic inspection or testing, maintenance, and repairs. During a shutdown, alternative measures are necessary to ensure that the level of safety intended by the Code is maintained.

In the shutdown of a fire alarm system, alternative measures should be worked out in cooperation with the fire department to ensure that all persons in the building can be promptly informed, and the fire department notified, should a fire occur while the alarm system is out of service.

When a sprinkler system is shut down, measures that can be taken include the provision of: emergency hose lines and portable extinguishers, extra fire watch service and, where practicable, temporary water connections to the sprinkler system.

A-6.3.1.3.(1)    The referenced document provides for regular testing and review of the central station facilities and of the connections to the premises containing the fire alarm system. The Code does not mandate a particular series of events from initiation of the fire alarm signal circuits in the building to notification of the fire department. In some cases, the signals to the central station are automatically forwarded to the fire department, whereas in others, the central station initiates the notification of the fire department.

A-6.3.1.4.(2)    Sentence 6.3.1.4.(2) is intended to ensure that a voice communication system that is not tested as part of an associated fire alarm system, but that will be relied upon during a fire emergency, will be tested periodically.

A-6.4.1.1.(1)    Water-based fire protection systems include sprinkler systems, standpipes, private hydrants, hose systems, water spray fixed systems, foam-water sprinkler systems, foam-water spray systems, and fire pumps.

A-6.5.1.1.(2)    CAN/CSA-Z32, “Electrical Safety and Essential Electrical Systems in Health Care Facilities,” contains requirements over and above those relating specifically to the inspection, testing and maintenance of emergency equipment: compliance with these other requirements is not intended by the reference in Sentence 6.5.1.1.(2). The standard defines three classes of health care facilities—Class A, Class B, and Class C—but applies only to Class A and Class C facilities. Class B facilities, which accommodate people who, as a result of physical or mental disabilities, are unable to function independently and need daily care by health care professionals, are covered by CAN/CSA-C282, “Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings.”

A-6.5.1.5.(1)    This can be achieved by replenishment as the result of the routine test program required by Article 6.5.1.1.

A-7.2.1.1.(1)    It is not intended that all equipment be tested on each test occasion. A representative number of devices may be tested on each occasion provided all equipment is tested within the time period agreed to in the fire safety plan.

A-7.3.1.1.(1)    The testing required in Section 7.3. is not intended to be a complete assessment of the design of the smoke control system, but only a test of the individual pieces of equipment specified.