The 2024 Ontario Building Code (OBC) introduces significant updates to Part 3: Fire Protection, Occupant Safety, and Accessibility, effective January 1, 2025. These changes reflect Ontario’s commitment to enhancing fire safety, aligning with the 2020 National Building Code of Canada (NBC), and addressing specific provincial needs.
This blog highlights the key updates every professional in the construction and engineering industry should know, focusing on their implications for fire safety.
1. Expanded Sprinkler System Requirements
Sprinkler systems now play a more critical role in ensuring comprehensive fire suppression throughout buildings:
Extended Coverage: Automatic sprinkler systems are now required in all storeys below any level where sprinklers are installed.
Design Guidance: New guidelines on the installation of closely spaced sprinklers and associated draft stops align with NFPA 13 standards, ensuring effective fire suppression in complex building layouts.
2. Fire Alarm and Detection System Enhancements
Updated requirements emphasize early detection and occupant safety:
Mandatory Installation: Fire alarm systems are now required in buildings with automatic sprinklers to enhance occupant notification during emergencies.
Improved Audibility: New sound pressure level standards ensure fire alarms are effective, including provisions for individuals with hearing impairments in sleeping areas.
3. Updated Construction Classifications and Occupancy Requirements
Changes to construction classifications aim to simplify compliance and improve safety:
Revised Articles: Updates to Articles 3.2.2.20 to 3.2.2.92. align Ontario’s classifications with the NBC.
Sprinkler Mandates: Buildings with certain occupancies, such as Group A, Division 1, now require sprinkler protection for enhanced fire safety.
4. Strengthened Fire Separations and Penetration Systems
Maintaining fire separation integrity is a top priority:
Fire Stops: New standards require fire stops tested to ULC S115, ensuring fire separations remain effective in containing fire spread.
Joint Sealing: Horizontal joints between floors and exterior walls must now use fire stops tested to ASTM E2307, improving perimeter fire resistance.
5. Overhauled Interconnected Floor Space Requirements
Modern design trends necessitate revised standards for interconnected spaces:
Eliminated Cylinder Fit Criterion: The previous design criterion is replaced with requirements for pressurized vestibules, cumulative exiting considerations, and mechanical exhaust systems capable of four air changes per hour.
6. Standpipe System Improvements
Standpipe systems see updated provisions for accessibility and usability:
Updated Locations: Standpipe hose connections are now permitted within exit stairwells, aligning with NBC standards and simplifying fire suppression efforts.
7. Mezzanine Egress and Exiting
Ensuring safe evacuation from mezzanines is now more precise:
Updated Standards: Mezzanine egress and exiting requirements have been revised to ensure compliance with updated fire safety measures.
8. Stricter Combustible Cladding Regulations
To minimize fire spread risks, the code restricts certain materials:
Material Restrictions: Combustible cladding is now heavily regulated, especially in buildings taller than six storeys, reducing the risk of vertical fire spread.
9. Specialized Requirements for Rapid Transit Stations
Rapid transit stations face unique fire safety challenges, now addressed in the updates:
Specialized Safety Standards: Enhanced smoke control measures and evacuation protocols are required for transit stations, ensuring safety in high-traffic environments.
10. Accessibility Enhancements for Fire Safety
Accessibility updates promote equitable safety for all occupants:
Inclusive Design: Updated fire safety measures accommodate individuals with disabilities, emphasizing universal safety standards.
Why These Updates Matter
The 2024 Ontario Building Code marks a step forward in creating safer, more inclusive buildings. These changes affect a wide range of building types, from high-rises to transit stations, ensuring fire safety measures are robust and effective. As these updates take effect, understanding and integrating them into your projects will be crucial for compliance and occupant safety.
How AI Integrated Systems Inc. Can Help
At AI Integrated Systems Inc., we specialize in fire protection and building code compliance. Our team is here to help you navigate these updates, ensuring your projects meet or exceed the latest standards. Whether you’re designing a new building, retrofitting an existing structure, or planning fire safety strategies, we provide the expertise you need.
Contact us today to learn how we can support your projects and keep your designs compliant and safe.
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