SECTION 9.9 – HOTELS
SECTION 9.9 HOTELS
Subsection 9.9.1. Application and General
Application
9.9.1.1. (1) Except as provided in Sentences (2), (3) and (4), this Section applies to every hotel establishment.
(2) Except as required in Sentence (5), this Section does not apply to a hotel establishment where every building that contains a hotel
(a) is not more than 1 storey in building height, and
(b) has a building area of 300 m2 or less.
(3) Except as required in Sentences (5) and (6), this Section does not apply to a building or part of a building that was regulated under Section 9.2, 9.3, 9.5 or 9.6 on December 31, 2006 if the use of the building is unchanged since that date.
(4) Except as required in Sentence (6), if the building contains major occupancies that operate under independent control from the hotel establishment, this Section does not apply to fire safety systems, devices and structural elements of those major occupancies that do not affect the life safety of the hotel occupants.
(5) Article 9.9.4.13. applies to a building or part of a building described in Sentence (2) or (3).
(6) Articles 9.9.2.9. and 9.9.2.15. apply to a building or part of a building described in Sentence (3) or (4).
(7) Revoked: O. Reg. 256/14, s. 407 (2).
Building audit
9.9.1.2. (1) A building audit shall be prepared and retained by the owner.
(2) The building audit referred to in Sentence (1) shall identify and describe the existing building features in relation to the requirements of this Section, including
(a) containment and control of a fire, including
(i) fire separations,
(ii) firewalls,
(iii) construction assemblies,
(iv) occupancy separations,
(v) interior finishes,
(vi) smoke control,
(vii) heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, and
(viii) cooking operations,
(b) detection, including
(i) alarm and detection systems,
(ii) smoke alarms, and
(iii) voice communication systems,
(c) suppression, including
(i) fire department access,
(ii) standpipe and hose systems,
(iii) sprinkler or special fire suppression systems, and
(iv) firefighters’ elevators, and
(d) egress, including
(i) the number, type, access to, direction to, lighting for and identification of exits,
(ii) fire escapes,
(iii) occupant load, and
(iv) emergency lighting.
Definitions
9.9.1.3. For the purposes of this Section,
“1994 Building Code” means Regulation 61 of the Revised Regulations of Ontario, 1990, as it read on June 23, 1994;
“existing” means in existence on January 1, 2007.
Subsection 9.9.2. Containment
Construction
9.9.2.1. (1) Fire separations required by this Section to have a fire-resistance rating shall be in conformance with Subsection 3.1.7. and Articles 3.1.8.1., 3.1.8.2., 3.1.8.3. and 3.5.4.2. of the 1994 Building Code.
(2) If a fire-resistance rating of 2 h or less is required, existing wall assemblies, floor assemblies and their supporting assemblies are deemed to comply with Sentence (1) if they consist of
(a) reinforced concrete,
(b) masonry, or
(c) clay tile with plaster or gypsum board finish on both sides
(3) If a fire-resistance rating of 1 h or less is required, existing wall assemblies, floor assemblies, ceilings and their supporting assemblies that consist of membranes of lath and plaster or gypsum board are deemed to be comply with Sentence (1).
(4) Heavy timber construction conforming to Article 3.1.4.6. of the 1994 Building Code is deemed to have a 45 min fire-resistance rating.
(5) Buildings with limited combustible components may be approved as noncombustible construction.
(6) Except as permitted in Sentences (7) and (8), floor assemblies shall be fire separations.
(7) Sentence (6) does not apply to floor assemblies between different levels of the same multi-level guest suite.
(8) A floor assembly immediately above a crawl space is not required to be constructed as a fire separation and is not required to have a fire-resistance rating provided the crawl space is not considered as a basement in Sentence 3.2.2.5.(1) of the 1994 Building Code.
Buildings up to 3 storeys
9.9.2.2. (1) Buildings shall comply with the requirements of Sentence (2), where the building is
(a) not more than 1 storey in building height and not greater than 1200 m2 in building area,
(b) not more than 2 storeys in building height and not greater than 900 m2 in building area, or
(c) not more than 3 storeys in building height and not greater than 600 m2 in building area.
(2) Floor assemblies and walls, columns and arches supporting floor assemblies shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 30 min.
(3) Where sleeping accommodation or meeting rooms are not provided in the basement, an existing fire separation between the first storey and basement is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (2) where
(a) the basement is sprinklered,
(b) the building contains not more than four guest suites and provides sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons, and
(i) interconnected smoke alarms are installed in conformance with Clause 9.9.4.1.(3)(c),
(ii) doors connecting the basement and first storey have a fire-protection rating not less than 20 min and are equipped with self-closing and latching devices, and
(iii) fire stopping of the wall space at the basement level is in conformance with Article 9.10.15.3. of the 1994 Building Code, or
(c) the building is 1 storey in building height, not more than 600 m2 in building area, and
(i) each guest suite has direct access to the outdoors by a door near ground level,
(ii) doors connecting the basement and first storey have a fire-protection rating not less than 20 min and are equipped with self-closing and latching devices,
(iii) fire stopping of the wall space at the basement level is in accordance with Article 9.10.15.3. of the 1994 Building Code, and
(iv) an approved early warning system is installed consisting of fire detectors in the basement interconnected with alarm signalling devices that are audible in all guest suites.
(4) The water supply for the sprinklers referred to in Clause (3)(a) may be taken from the domestic supply where the supply provides sufficient density for the largest fire compartment and where the supply is approved.
(5) A building that is sprinklered is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (2).
Buildings up to 4 storeys
9.9.2.3. (1) Buildings to which Sentence 9.9.2.2.(1) does not apply and that are not more than 4 storeys in building height shall comply with Sentences (2) and (3).
(2) Floor assemblies and walls, columns and arches supporting floor assemblies shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
(3) Smoke detectors shall be provided in corridors serving guest suites in buildings of combustible construction.
(4) A building that is sprinklered is deemed to be in compliance with Sentences (2) and (3).
Buildings over 4 storeys but not more than 6 storeys
9.9.2.4. (1) Buildings to which Articles 9.9.2.2. and 9.9.2.3. do not apply and that are not more than 6 storeys in building height shall
(a) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min for floor assemblies and walls, columns and arches supporting floor assemblies, and
(b) be sprinklered, where the building is of combustible construction.
(2) Where only the roof assembly is of combustible construction, the building is deemed to be in compliance with Clause (1)(b) where
(a) the ceiling membrane has a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min and the attic space is fire stopped in accordance with Article 3.1.11.5. of the 1994 Building Code,
(b) the roof assembly is of heavy timber construction in conformance with Article 3.1.4.6. of the 1994 Building Code, or
(c) the top storey and attic space are sprinklered.
(3) Where smoke detectors are provided in corridors serving guest suites, a building of heavy timber construction conforming to Article 3.1.4.6. of the 1994 Building Code is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).
Buildings over 6 storeys
9.9.2.5. (1) Buildings that are more than 6 storeys in building height shall
(a) have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h for floor assemblies and walls, columns and arches supporting floor assemblies, and
(b) be sprinklered, where the building is of combustible construction.
(2) Where only the roof assembly is of combustible construction, the building is deemed to be in compliance with Clause (1)(b) where
(a) the ceiling membrane has a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min and the attic space is fire stopped in accordance with Article 3.1.11.5. of the 1994 Building Code,
(b) the roof assembly is of heavy timber construction in conformance with Article 3.1.4.6. of the 1994 Building Code, or
(c) the top storey and attic space are sprinklered.
Adjacent buildings
9.9.2.6. (1) A building containing a hotel shall be separated from a directly connected adjacent building that does not contain a hotel by a noncombustible fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h.
(2) An existing wall having a fire-resistance rating not less than 2h and constructed as a fire separation is deemed to comply with Sentence (1).
(3) Where the connection consists of an aboveground or underground walkway in conformance with Articles 3.2.3.20. and 3.2.3.21. of the 1994 Building Code, the building is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).
Interconnected floor spaces
9.9.2.7. (1) Despite Sentence 9.9.2.1.(6), a floor assembly may be penetrated by an unprotected opening between 2 contiguous storeys up to the fifth storey where
(a) the building is of noncombustible construction,
(b) the interconnected floor space does not contain sleeping accommodation, and
(c) the required fire-resistance rating of the floor assembly is maintained.
(2) Despite Sentence 9.9.2.1.(6), in a building that is not more than 3 storeys in building height and not more than 600 m2 in building area, a floor assembly is not required to be constructed as a fire separation between 2 contiguous storeys where
(a) the interconnected floor space consists of the first storey and the storey next above or below, but not both,
(b) the interconnected floor space is sprinklered, and
(c) the sprinkler system is equipped with a water flow device and electrical supervision in conformance with Sentence 3.2.8.7.(2) of the 1994 Building Code.
(3) Despite Sentence 9.9.2.1.(6), a floor assembly in a storage garage does not need to be a fire separation.
(4) Interconnected floor spaces in conformance with Subsection 3.2.8. of the 1994 Building Code are deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).
Fire separation of guest suites
9.9.2.8. (1) Guest suites shall be separated from adjacent rooms and areas on the same floor area by
(a) a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 30 min in buildings that are not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
(b) a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min in buildings that are more than 6 storeys in building height.
Fire separation of corridors
(2) Corridors serving guest suites shall be separated from adjacent rooms and areas on the same floor area by
(a) a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 30 min in buildings that are not more than 6 storeys in building height, and
(b) a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min in buildings that are more than 6 storeys in building height.
(3) Existing fire separations are deemed to comply with Sentences (1) and (2) if the floor area is sprinklered.
Fire separations between major occupancies
9.9.2.9. (1) Fire separations having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min shall be provided between major occupancies.
(2) Existing fire separations having a fire-resistance rating not less than 30 min are deemed to comply with Sentence (1) if
(a) the floor area is sprinklered, or
(b) the part of the building containing the major occupancy is equipped with fire detectors and connecting corridors are equipped with smoke detectors as part of the fire alarm system of the building.
Protection of openings in fire separations
9.9.2.10. (1) Closures in fire separations shall be in conformance with
(a) Sentences 3.1.8.4.(2) and 3.1.8.10.(1) of the 1994 Building Code, and
(b) Articles 3.1.8.11. and 3.1.8.13. of the 1994 Building Code.
(2) Despite Sentence (1), openings in fire separations to which Article 9.9.2.8. or 9.9.2.11. applies may be protected with closures having a fire-protection rating not less than 20 min.
(3) If a fire-protection rating of 1 h or less is required, existing closures are deemed to comply with Sentence (1) if they consist of
(a) hollow metal or kalamein doors in hollow metal frames, with openings, if any, protected by wired glass and equipped with self-closing and latching devices, or
(b) wired glass screens set in fixed steel frames.
(4) Where a 20 min fire-protection rating is required, existing closures consisting of door assemblies of 45 mm solid core wood doors installed in solid wood or hollow metal frames and equipped with self-closing and latching devices are deemed to be in compliance with Sentences (1) and (2).
(5) Despite Sentence (1), existing closures in fire separations to which Articles 9.9.2.8. and 9.9.3.6. apply need not be equipped with latching devices in buildings that are not more than 6 storeys in building height.
(6) Where the floor area is sprinklered, existing closures in fire separations to which Article 9.9.2.8. applies are deemed to be in compliance with Clause (1)(a) and Sentence (2).
(7) Fire dampers shall be installed in fire separations in conformance with Article 3.1.8.7. of the 1994 Building Code.
(8) Despite Sentence (7), fire dampers are not required in existing noncombustible ducts at penetrations of fire separations.
Laundry rooms, storage rooms and maintenance shops
9.9.2.11. Laundry rooms, storage rooms exceeding 0.6 m2 in area and maintenance shops shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
Fuel-fired appliances
9.9.2.12. (1) Fuel-fired appliances, except for cooking appliances, shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
(2) Sentence (1) does not apply to a gas or oil-fired appliance installed on the roof of a building of noncombustible construction.
(3) Sentence (1) does not apply to fireplaces and space heaters provided the appliance is not located in an exit or in a corridor serving as an access to exit for guest suites.
(4) Despite Sentence (1), the fire-resistance rating of the fire separation above the room is not required where
(a) the required vertical fire separation to the room is provided, and
(b) the room area is fully sprinklered, with a spacing not exceeding 9.5 m2 per sprinkler head, or providing a minimum average density of 6.5 L/min/m2 over the room area.
(5) Where an appliance is separated in conformance with this Article, sufficient combustion air shall be brought directly from the outside for the safe operation of the appliance.
(6) If it is not practical to provide combustion air directly from the outside as required in Sentence (5), alternative means for the safe operation of the appliance may be approved.
(7) Despite Sentence (1), a fire separation is not required for a fuel-fired appliance located within a guest suite and serving only that guest suite.
Vertical service spaces
9.9.2.13. (1) Vertical service spaces shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
(2) Where the existing vertical service space, including the top and bottom, is sealed with gypsum board, lath and plaster or other similar noncombustible material, the vertical service space is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).
Refuse and linen chutes
9.9.2.14. (1) Unless otherwise approved, linen and refuse chutes shall be located in a shaft separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
(2) Linen and refuse chutes shall terminate or discharge directly into rooms that are separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
(3) In buildings more than 2 storeys in building height, automatic sprinklers shall be installed in each linen or refuse chute
(a) at the top,
(b) at alternate floor levels, and
(c) in the room or bin into which the chute discharges.
(4) An existing chute installation is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (3) where
(a) the chute outlet in the discharge room is protected by an automatic, self-latching closure held open by a fusible link in buildings greater than 6 storeys in building height,
(b) the room into which the chute discharges is sprinklered, and
(c) at least one sprinkler head with a minimum discharge rate of 66 L/min is located at the top of the chute.
Smoke control
9.9.2.15. (1) Buildings containing a hotel where the vertical distance between the floor of the top storey and grade exceeds 18 m shall have smoke control measures in conformance with Sentences (2) and (3).
(2) Buildings containing a hotel shall
(a) have smoke control measures that prevent smoke spread from floor areas containing other occupancies to upper floor areas that contain guest suites, or
(b) be sprinklered on all floor areas containing other occupancies that are located below floors that contain guest suites.
(3) Buildings containing a hotel shall have smoke control measures in conformance with Article 3.2.6.2. of the 1994 Building Code.
(4) A building is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (3) where
(a) all guest suites have access to an exterior balcony,
(b) the length of corridors serving guest suites does not exceed 30 m between exits,
(c) corridors serving guest suites are equipped with smoke detectors connected to the fire alarm system,
(d) corridors serving guest suites are subdivided in conformance with Sentence (5), or
(e) the building is sprinklered.
(5) The corridor subdivision referred to in Clause (4)(d) shall
(a) separate the corridor into at least two compartments by a fire separation that does not require a fire-resistance rating,
(b) be located so that not more than one of the required exit stairs is located in any one compartment and the distance of travel from any guest suite entrance door to an exit or adjacent compartment does not exceed 25 m, and
(c) include smoke-tight doors equipped with self-closing devices that act as closures in the fire separation.
Pipes, ducts and plenums
9.9.2.16. (1) Pipes, ducts, plenums and other equipment in heating and air handling systems shall be constructed of steel, approved noncombustible material or other approved material.
(2) Insulating materials and adhesives for pipes, ducts, plenums and other components of heating and air handling systems shall be noncombustible or shall have a flame-spread rating of 25 or less or shall be of some other approved composition.
(3) Where an attic space, a crawl space, a corridor ceiling space or any other concealed space is used as a plenum, the concealed space shall be lined with noncombustible material, material having a flame-spread rating of 25 or less or other approved material.
9.9.2.17. (1) A fire separation that separates an exit stairway from the remainder of the building shall not be breached by a duct or other part of an air handling system.
(2) Despite Sentence (1), an exit through a lobby or other entrance area that is within a stairway separation may be breached if the stairway is separated from the entrance area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
9.9.2.18. No stairway enclosure or corridor shall be used as a plenum to exhaust air from other areas.
Cooking operations
9.9.2.19. (1) An existing cooking operation that complies with Sentences (2) to (6) is deemed to comply with Sentence 2.6.1.12.(1).
(2) Cooking operations shall have an existing exhaust system which, unless otherwise approved, shall be provided with
(a) a hood or other primary collection device to collect and confine all cooking vapours and residues emanating from the cooking equipment,
(b) a grease filter or other means of grease extraction,
(c) a duct from the hood or other primary collection device which
(i) leads as directly as possible to the outside,
(ii) is independent and not connected to any other ventilation system, and
(iii) has adequate openings for inspection and cleaning purposes that are equipped with tight fitting doors,
(d) a residue trap with provisions for cleanout at the base of each vertical riser, and
(e) mechanically induced air flow of sufficient velocity to confine cooking vapours and residues to the hood or other primary collection means installed at the cooking equipment.
(3) Pipes, ducts, plenums and other components of the exhaust system shall be constructed of steel, approved noncombustible material or other approved material.
(4) Insulating material and adhesive used in the exhaust system shall be noncombustible or shall have a flame-spread rating of 25 or less or shall have some other approved composition.
(5) The cooking operation shall be
(a) located in a kitchen that is separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, or
(b) protected by a fixed fire protection system.
(6) The fire separation referred to in Sentence (5) may contain an unprotected pass-through opening into the adjoining dining area if approved measures are provided to limit fire spread.
Subsection 9.9.3. Means of Egress
Occupant load
9.9.3.1. (1) The occupant load for calculation of the number and width of access to exits and exits referred to in this Section shall be determined in accordance with Subsection 3.1.16. of the 1994 Building Code.
(2) The occupant load of a floor area may vary if it is used for different occupancies at different times, but the exits from the floor area shall provide the aggregate exit width prescribed in Article 9.9.3.2. for the greatest occupant load.
Access to exit
9.9.3.2. (1) Each room, guest suite, podium, terrace, platform, contained open space or other area intended for occupancy shall have egress facilities leading directly to
(a) a public thoroughfare,
(b) an approved open space that has access to a public thoroughfare, or
(c) a corridor where it is possible to go in opposite directions to separate exits, except as otherwise permitted by this Article or Article 9.9.3.3.
Dead end corridors
(2) Dead end corridors shall not be longer than 6 m plus the width of the corridor, unless otherwise approved.
(3) Unless otherwise approved, no area may be served by a dead end corridor where
(a) the area contains an assembly occupancy and its occupant load is greater than 20 persons,
(b) the area is intended for storage and exceeds 200 m2, or
(c) the area is intended for a use other than that described in Clauses (a) and (b) and exceeds 100 m2 in area or has an occupant load greater than 24 persons.
(4) If a guest suite has access to a second exit or if a guest suite is in a building that is permitted to be served by a single exit in compliance with Article 9.9.3.3., a doorway from the guest suite may open onto
(a) an exit stairway,
(b) a fire escape,
(c) a corridor served by a single exit, or
(d) an exterior passageway served by a single exit stairway.
Egress facilities
(5) Each room, guest suite, podium, terrace, platform, contained open space or other area intended for occupancy shall have two egress doorways placed in such a manner that one doorway could provide egress from the room or area if the other doorway becomes inaccessible to the occupants due to a fire which might originate in the room or area where
(a) the space is intended for assembly occupancy, and
(i) the distance of travel to an egress door from any point in the space exceeds 15 m, or
(ii) the occupant load exceeds 60 persons,
(b) the space is intended for storage, and
(i) exceeds 200 m2 in area, or
(ii) the distance of travel to an egress door from any point in the space exceeds 23 m, or
(c) the space is intended for a use other than that described in Clauses (a) and (b), and
(i) exceeds 100 m2 in area, or
(ii) the occupant load exceeds 60 persons.
(6) Despite Sentence (5), every room containing an assembly occupancy shall be provided with at least
(a) three independent well-separated egress doorways, where its occupant load is 600 persons or more, and
(b) four independent well-separated egress doorways where its occupant load is 1000 persons or more.
(7) Where a room or floor area is divided into individual spaces for assembly occupancy, egress through an adjacent assembly occupancy is permitted provided each space has at least one independent egress doorway in accordance with Sentence (1) and dividing walls or partitions are not more than 1.35 m in height.
(8) Dividing walls or partitions in Sentence (7) may exceed 1.35 m in height if alternative provisions are approved to provide safe egress.
Egress widths
(9) The aggregate width of required means of egress from a floor area or portion of a floor area shall be determined by multiplying the occupant load of the area served by
(a) 6.1 mm per person, for ramps with a gradient of not more than 1 in 8, doorways, corridors and passageways, or
(b) 9.2 mm per person, for ramps with a gradient of more than 1 in 8 and stairs.
(10) Where two or more egress doorways are required from a floor area or portion of a floor area, a sufficient aggregate width shall be provided so that the egress capacity is not reduced by more than half if any one doorway or opening is inaccessible in an emergency.
(11) Despite Sentences (9) and (10), the minimum clear width of a means of egress shall be not less than
(a) 1100 mm for corridors,
(b) 900 mm for stairs, and
(c) 750 mm for doorways, ramps and all other areas.
Number of exits
9.9.3.3. (1) Each floor area shall be served by a minimum of two exits where
(a) the floor area is intended for assembly occupancy, and
(i) the distance of travel to an exit from any point in the space exceeds 15 m, or
(ii) the occupant load exceeds 60 persons,
(b) the floor area is intended for storage, and
(i) exceeds 200 m2 in area, or
(ii) the distance of travel to an exit from any point in the space exceeds 23 m,
(c) the floor area is a basement, and
(i) exceeds 200 m2 in area, or
(ii) contains areas that are accessible to the public, or
(d) the floor area is intended for a use other than that described in Clauses (a), (b) and (c), and
(i) exceeds 100 m2 in area, or
(ii) the occupant load exceeds 60 persons.
(2) Despite Sentence (1), each floor area shall be served by at least two exits in buildings that are more than 3 storeys in building height.
(3) Despite Sentence (1), where a building is 3 storeys in building height, the third storey shall be served by at least two exits unless approved alternative measures are used.
(4) Despite Sentence (3), there may be a single exit from the third storey used solely as the residence of the hotel owner or manager.
(5) The minimum distance between exits referred to in Sentences (1), (2) and (3) shall be 9 m or half the maximum diagonal dimension of the floor area, whichever is less.
(6) Exits are deemed to comply with Sentence (5) if the floor area is divided by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min so that it is necessary to pass through the fire separation to travel from one exit to another exit.
Exit widths
9.9.3.4. Except as provided in Sentence 9.9.3.7.(2), the width of exits shall be in conformance with Article 9.9.3.2.
Travel distance
9.9.3.5. (1) The travel distance to at least one exit shall not exceed
(a) 30 m in a floor area that is not sprinklered,
(b) 45 m in a sprinklered floor area, or
(c) 45 m in a basement that is not accessible to the public.
Stairway separations
9.9.3.6. (1) Each exit stairway shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
(2) Each exit stairway shall lead directly to a public thoroughfare or to an approved open space from inside the fire separation described in Sentence (1).
(3) Despite Sentence (2), one exit from a floor area may lead through a lobby if
(a) the path of travel through the lobby to the outdoors at ground level is not more than 15 m,
(b) a fire separation, constructed in accordance with Sentence (1), is provided between the lobby and any exit permitted by this Sentence to lead through a lobby,
(c) the lobby is not located within an interconnected floor space described in Article 9.9.2.7.,
(d) from the interior of the exit stair that leads through the lobby, there is an unobstructed path of travel not leading through the lobby to an alternate exit such that
(i) it is not necessary to travel up or down more than 1 storey to reach the alternate exit by means of a protected access to exit, or
(ii) the path of travel is entirely within the same storey as the lobby and is separated from the lobby by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
(e) approved provisions are made to direct occupants to the alternate exit described in Clause (d) in the event of a fire condition in the lobby.
(4) The lobby described in Sentence (3) may contain an occupancy if the required egress width is maintained and clearly delineated.
(5) Despite Sentence 9.9.2.12.(3), the lobby described in Sentence (3) may contain a fireplace or a space heater.
(6) Despite Sentence (2), an exit through a lobby is permitted in conformance with Article 3.4.4.2. or 9.9.8.5. of the 1994 Building Code, as applicable for the size and height of the building.
Exterior stairways and fire escapes
9.9.3.7. (1) Exterior exit stairways and fire escapes shall not serve floor areas above the sixth storey.
(2) Unless otherwise approved, each fire escape used as an exit and each exterior exit stairway shall comply with Articles 3.4.7.2., 3.4.7.3., 3.4.7.5. and 3.4.7.6. of the 1994 Building Code.
(3) Unless otherwise approved, exterior exit stairways, fire escapes and exterior exit passageways serving any storey above the second storey or any basement below the first basement shall be protected against fire exposure from the building in accordance with Sentences (4) and (5).
(4) For the purposes of Sentence (3), window openings, except first storey display windows, shall be protected by wired glass in fixed steel frames if located within 3 storeys below, within 10 m below, within 1.8 m above or within 3 m horizontally of an exterior exit stairway, fire escape or exterior exit passageway.
(5) For the purposes of Sentence (3), doorways and other openings shall be protected with closures having a fire-protection rating not less than 45 min if located within 3 storeys below, within 10 m below, within 1.8 m above or within 3 m horizontally of an exterior exit stairway, fire escape or exterior exit passageway.
(6) Exterior exit stairways leading across roofs shall be provided with handrails on both sides of the walkway leading to the stairway at the edge of the roof, unless otherwise approved.
(7) Exterior exit stairways and fire escapes below grade shall be
(a) enclosed by side walls and a roof, with a door to ground level at the upper landing,
(b) provided with a roof projecting horizontally for a distance of at least 1.8 m beyond any step or landing, or
(c) provided with some other approved construction or device to prevent snow from accumulating in the stairway or fire escape.
(8) Sentence (3) does not apply to an exterior passageway if
(a) 50% or more of the exterior side of the passageway is open to the outdoors,
(b) the exterior passageway floor assembly has a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min or is of noncombustible construction, and
(c) an exit stairway is provided at each end of the passageway.
Door swing and hardware
9.9.3.8. Each exit door and door providing an access to exit shall be in conformance with Subsection 2.7.2.
Emergency access to floor areas
9.9.3.9. Doors providing access between floor areas and exit stairs shall comply with Article 3.4.6.16. of the 1994 Building Code.
Signs
9.9.3.10. (1) Exit signs shall be installed in accordance with Subsection 3.4.5. of the 1994 Building Code.
(2) Each door opening into an exit stairway shall be identified with the number assigned to that floor in accordance with Article 3.4.6.17. of the 1994 Building Code.
(3) Existing doors that have the floor level identified in plain legible block letters or numbers at least 114 mm high with a 19 mm stroke on both sides of the door are deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (2).
Interior finishes
9.9.3.11. (1) Interior finish materials on the walls and ceilings of exits and access to exits shall be in accordance with Subsection 3.1.13. of the 1994 Building Code, except as provided in Sentence (2) or otherwise approved.
(2) Sentence (1) does not apply to
(a) wood or other approved materials, treated with an approved fire retardant, used on the walls of lobbies, foyers, vestibules, entrance halls and other major entrance areas,
(b) combustible interior finishes, including paint, wallpaper and other interior finishes not more than 1.5 mm thick used on the walls of corridors, and
(c) combustible materials that have a flame-spread rating of 150 or less used on the walls and ceilings of access to exits if the access to exits are sprinklered.
9.9.3.12. The flame-spread rating of interior wall and ceiling finishes in rooms containing an assembly occupancy shall be not more than 150.
Lighting
9.9.3.13. Every exit and access to exit shall be equipped to provide illumination to an average level of at least 50 lx at floor level and at all points such as angles and intersections at changes of level where there are stairs and ramps.
Emergency lighting
9.9.3.14. (1) Emergency lighting shall be provided in
(a) exits and access to exits in buildings required to have a fire alarm system, and
(b) rooms containing an assembly occupancy with an occupant load of more than 60 persons.
(2) Emergency lighting required in Sentence (1) shall be
(a) designed to provide illumination for a duration of at least
(i) 2 h in buildings where the vertical distance between the floor of the top storey and grade exceeds 18 m, and
(ii) 30 min in buildings where the vertical distance between the floor of the top storey and grade is not more than 18 m,
(b) supplied by a source of energy separate from the primary electrical supply for the building, and
(c) designed to be automatically actuated when the power to the building is interrupted.
(3) Illumination from emergency lighting referred to in Sentence (2) shall be an average of at least 10 lx at floor or tread level, or 1 watt/m2 of floor space.
Subsection 9.9.4. Fire Alarm and Detection
Fire alarm requirements
9.9.4.1. (1) A fire alarm system with listed components shall be installed in each building in accordance with Articles 9.9.4.2. to 9.9.4.12. where
(a) the building area is more than 600 m2,
(b) the building is more than 1 storey in building height, or
(c) each guest suite is not served by an exterior exit facility leading to ground level.
(2) A building is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1) where
(a) the building is not more than 3 storeys in building height,
(b) each guest suite is served by an exterior exit facility leading to ground level,
(c) each guest suite is separated from adjacent rooms by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min, and
(d) each guest suite is equipped with a smoke alarm.
(3) A building is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1) where
(a) the building is not more than 3 storeys in building height,
(b) sleeping accommodation is provided for not more than 10 persons, and
(c) the building is equipped with
(i) smoke alarms on or near the ceiling in corridors serving guest suites on each floor area, adjacent to each stairway serving the corridors, and on or near the ceiling in the basement, adjacent to each stairway, and
(ii) one manual pull station in each floor area in an approved location, installed and interconnected so that the actuation of any manual pull station or smoke alarm will cause all smoke alarms to operate and be audible throughout the building.
Automatic detection
9.9.4.2. (1) Automatic detection devices referred to in Sentences (2), (3) and (4) shall be installed and connected to the fire alarm system required in Sentence 9.9.4.1.(1).
(2) Fire detectors shall be installed
(a) in every part of a building that requires a fire alarm system in Article 9.9.4.1., other than corridors, washrooms, closets in guest suites, saunas, refrigerated areas and swimming pools,
(b) at the tops of elevator shafts, and
(c) at the tops of exit stairs.
(3) Despite Sentence (2), fire detectors are not required in existing guest suites where smoke detectors are installed in every corridor serving the guest suites.
(4) Rooms or areas that are sprinklered in accordance with Article 3.2.4.16. of the 1994 Building Code are deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (2).
Manual pull stations
9.9.4.3. (1) Unless otherwise approved, manual pull stations shall be installed at
(a) the main reception area, and
(b) near every exit.
(2) Despite Sentence (1), a manual pull station may serve two exits where
(a) the exits are not more than 9 m apart,
(b) the exits are located on the same storey, and
(c) the manual pull station is readily accessible and visible from each exit.
(3) A manual pull station shall be
(a) red in colour,
(b) readily accessible and unobstructed,
(c) readily visible, and
(d) unless otherwise approved, installed at a height not less than 1.2 m and not more than 1.5 m, measured vertically from the finished floor surface.
Alarm signalling devices
9.9.4.4. (1) Alarm signalling devices shall be
(a) installed on all storeys, unless otherwise approved,
(b) located so that the alarm signal and alert signal when sounded, may be heard throughout the building over all normal sounds at any time, and
(c) be distinctive in sound.
Annunciator panels
9.9.4.5. (1) In a building that is 4 or more storeys in building height or has a total area of 4000 m2 or more, an annunciator panel shall
(a) be installed near the main entrance, in the main reception area or other approved location that is readily accessible to the fire department, and
(b) indicate all floors with not more than one floor per zone indicated.
(2) Fire detectors required in Clauses 9.9.4.2.(2)(b) and (c) may be considered as part of the adjoining floor for the purposes of Clause (1)(b) of this Article.
Shutdown of air handling systems
9.9.4.6. Recirculating air handling systems that serve more than one guest suite or storey shall be arranged to shut down upon actuation of the fire alarm system, except where continued operation of the air handling system serves as part of a smoke control system.
Trouble signals
9.9.4.7. (1) A trouble signal sounding device and, where the trouble signal sounding device has a silencing switch, a trouble light shall be installed in
(a) the main reception area, or
(b) a continuously supervised area.
Operation
9.9.4.8. Fire alarm systems shall operate in conformance with Article 3.2.4.4. of the 1994 Building Code, unless otherwise approved.
Continuity
9.9.4.9. Each building shall not have more than one fire alarm system, unless otherwise approved.
Electrical supervision
9.9.4.10. Fire alarm systems shall be electrically supervised.
Emergency power
9.9.4.11. (1) Fire alarm systems shall be provided with an emergency power supply in conformance with Article 3.2.7.8. of the 1994 Building Code.
(2) An existing emergency power supply that is capable of providing supervisory power for not less than 24 h and emergency power under full load for not less than 5 min at the end of the 24 h period is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).
Primary power
(3) Fire alarm system connections to the primary source of power shall be on a separate circuit equipped with separate circuit breakers or fuse switches that are located in a secure area.
(4) When a building is not supplied with primary power from a public utility, two approved independent sources of power shall be provided to the fire alarm system.
Installation
9.9.4.12. (1) Where a fire alarm system is required to be installed, extended or modified by this Section, the installation, extension or modification shall be in conformance with CAN/ULC-S524, “Standard for the Installation of Fire Alarm Systems”.
(2) Where a fire alarm system has been installed, extended or modified as required by this Section, the system or portion of the system shall be tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S537, “Verification of Fire Alarm Systems”.
(3) Sentences (1) and (2) do not apply to existing fire alarm system components.
Smoke alarms
9.9.4.13. (1) Smoke alarms shall be installed in each guest suite.
(2) Smoke alarms shall meet the requirements of
(a) CAN/ULC-S531, “Standard for Smoke Alarms”, and
(b) CAN/ULC-S553, “Standard for the Installation of Smoke-Alarms”.
(3) Smoke alarms shall be installed with permanent connections to an electrical circuit and shall have no disconnect switches between the overcurrent device and the smoke alarm.
(4) Despite Sentence (3), battery-operated smoke alarms may be used.
(5) Unless otherwise approved, at least one smoke alarm shall be installed on each floor of a multi-level guest suite and the smoke alarms shall be interconnected so that the actuation of one smoke alarm will cause all smoke alarms within the guest suite to sound.
Voice communication systems
9.9.4.14. (1) A voice communication system shall be provided in each building where the vertical distance between the floor of the top storey and grade exceeds 36 m.
(2) The voice communication system required by Sentence (1) shall
(a) consist of loudspeakers operated from the central alarm and control facility or other location that is accessible to the fire department and supervisory staff appointed under Section 2.8 and that is approved,
(b) provide a clear verbal signal throughout the building, except for elevator cars, and
(c) provide for automatic silencing of the fire alarm signals or alert signals when the loudspeakers are in use.
(3) Approved existing public address systems compatible with the fire safety plan required under Section 2.8 and capable of communicating instructions to the building occupants are deemed to be in compliance with Sentences (1) and (2).
Subsection 9.9.5. Suppression
Access for fire fighting
9.9.5.1. (1) Access routes for fire fighting shall be provided in conformance with the requirements of Articles 3.2.5.5. to 3.2.5.7. of the 1994 Building Code.
(2) Sentence (1) does not apply where the building is sprinklered.
(3) In buildings not greater than 6 storeys in building height, existing access routes are deemed to comply with Sentence (1) if they
(a) have a clear width of at least 6 m,
(b) are capable of supporting the expected loads imposed by fire fighting equipment and surfaced with concrete, asphalt or other material that provides accessibility under all climatic conditions,
(c) are located not less than 3 m and not more than 15 m from the principal entrance, and
(d) are connected with a public thoroughfare.
(4) Despite Sentence (1), alternative methods may be approved where, in the opinion of the Chief Fire Official, they provide protection for life safety similar to the protection provided by compliance with Sentence (1).
Standpipe systems
9.9.5.2. (1) In buildings that are greater than 3 storeys in building height, a standpipe and hose system shall be installed in conformance with Subsection 3.2.9. of the 1994 Building Code.
(2) A standpipe and hose system installed in conformance with Sentences (3) to (6) is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1).
(3) Hose stations shall
(a) be located so that all areas
(i) are protected by a hose station on the same storey, and
(ii) can be reached by a hose stream and are within 6 m of a hose nozzle when the hose is extended,
(b) be provided with a 38 mm hose valve, unless otherwise approved,
(c) be equipped with not more than 30 m of 38 mm hose on a hose rack, unless otherwise approved,
(d) have the hose attached, ready for use at all times and equipped with a shut-off combination fog and straight stream nozzle,
(e) be within easy reach of a person standing on the floor, with the hose valve connection located no more than 1.5 m from the floor, and
(f) be located
(i) in corridors where possible, and
(ii) in hose cabinets.
(4) Despite Subclause (3)(a)(i), a penthouse may be protected by a hose station located in the storey below.
(5) A standpipe and hose system shall
(a) have an adequate water supply capable of producing a hose stream of at least 6 m from the hose nozzle at the highest fire hose outlet, and
(b) be served by at least one fire department connection located on the outside of the building adjacent to a street, readily accessible to the fire department.
(6) Hose cabinets shall be
(a) of sufficient size to accommodate a hose, hose rack, hose valve and portable extinguisher,
(b) conspicuously identified, by lettering at least 50 mm high or by the provision of a sufficiently large glass panel in the door to ensure that the equipment in the cabinet is readily visible,
(c) equipped with a door without locks, constructed to open easily, unless otherwise approved, and
(d) so located that the door, when open, will not obstruct any doorway.
Firefighters’ elevators
9.9.5.3. (1) At least one elevator shall be provided for use by firefighters in conformance with Articles 3.2.6.8. and 3.2.6.9. of the 1994 Building Code in buildings where the vertical distance between the floor of the top storey and grade exceeds 18 m.
(2) An elevator is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1) where
(a) the elevator is capable of providing transportation from the street floor to every floor served by the elevator system,
(b) the elevator is identified on the street floor as an elevator provided for use by firefighters,
(c) the elevator satisfies the requirements of Sentences 3.2.6.8.(1) to (4) of the 1994 Building Code, and
(d) other elevator cabs in the same shaft as the elevator for use by firefighters satisfy the requirements of Sentences 3.2.6.8.(1) and (2) of the 1994 Building Code.
(3) An elevator system that requires transfer from one elevator to another to reach all floors above grade is deemed to be in compliance with Sentence (1) where
(a) the elevators are identified on the street floor and the transfer floor as elevators provided for firefighters’ use,
(b) the elevators satisfy the requirements of Sentences 3.2.6.8.(1) to (4) of the 1994 Building Code,
(c) emergency power is provided that is capable of operating one elevator car at a time, in buildings where the vertical distance between the floor of the top storey and grade exceeds 36 m, and
(d) other elevator cabs in the same shaft as the elevator for use by firefighters satisfy the requirements of Sentences 3.2.6.8.(1) and (2) of the 1994 Building Code.
Sprinkler systems
9.9.5.4. Unless otherwise approved, where a building or portion thereof is required to be sprinklered, the sprinkler system shall be designed and constructed in conformance with Articles 3.2.5.13. to 3.2.5.16. of the 1994 Building Code.
Emergency power supply
9.9.5.5. (1) Unless otherwise approved, emergency electric power provided by generators for fire alarm systems referred to in Sentence 9.9.4.1.(1) and for elevator cars referred to in Clause 9.9.5.3.(3)(c) shall be provided in accordance with CSA-C282, “Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings”.
(2) Unless otherwise approved, emergency electric power required for emergency lighting systems required in Sentence 9.9.3.14.(1) shall be installed in conformance with CSA-C282, “Emergency Electrical Power Supply for Buildings” or CSA-C22.2 No. 141, “Emergency Lighting Equipment”, as applicable.