November 21, 2007 brought about changes to the Ontario Fire Code. These are some highlights that will affect business and residential owners.
OPENING AIR BURNING
The open air burning restrictions are not applicable to gas or oil-fired outdoor appliances, if the appliance is designed for outdoor use, installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and conforms to TSSA, 2000. Look for CSA, ULC, CGA or Wernock Hersey symbol on the label.
FIRE SAFETY PLANS
The owner is required to review their fire safety plan as often as necessary but not exceeding 12 month intervals.
FLOOR FINISHING OPERATIONS
Floor finishing operations using flammable and combustible liquids now applies to all occupancies, including residential dwelling units
INTERCONNECTED SMOKE ALARM TESTING
There are additional testing requirements for interconnected smoke alarm systems in residential and care occupancies. It does not apply to individual dwelling units or two unit residential occupancies (apartment-in-house property).
FIRE ESCAPE EXPOSURE PROTECTION
Window openings that are exposed to fire escapes must be protected. This only applies if the fire escape serves a storey above the second floor. The owner must comply by November 21, 2008. Window openings can be protected with 20 minute closures, wired glass in fixed steel frames conforming to the Building Code or listed steel shutters with fusible link activation.
Inspectors will be contacting the owners of buildings with fire escapes that serve storeys above the second floor to schedule an inspection. |
