Division B
Part 3 - Fire Protection, Occupant Safety and Accessibility (See Note A-3)
Section 3.1. General Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.1. Scope and Definitions Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.1.1. Scope Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)The scope of this Part shall be as described in Subsection 1.3.3. of Division A.
3.1.1.2. Defined Words Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Words that appear in italics are defined in Article 1.4.1.2. of Division A.
3.1.1.3. Reserved Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.1.4. Reserved Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.1.5. Radon Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)In addition to all other requirements, a building in the following designated areas shall be designed and constructed so that the annual average concentration of radon 222 does not exceed 200 Bq/m3 of air and the annual average concentration of the short lived daughters of radon 222 does not exceed 0.02 working levels inside the building:
(a)the City of Elliot Lake in the Territorial District of Algoma,
(b)the Township of Faraday in the County of Hastings, and
(c)the geographic Township of Hyman in the Territorial District of Sudbury.
3.1.1.6. Building in Flood Plains Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Buildings constructed on flood plains shall
(a)be designed and constructed in accordance with good engineering practice to withstand anticipated vertical and horizontal hydrostatic pressures acting on the structure, and
(b)incorporate floodproofing measures that will preserve the integrity of exits and means of egress during times of flooding.
3.1.2. Classification of Buildings or Parts of Buildings by Major Occupancy (See Note A-3.1.2.) Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.2.1. Classification of Buildings Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as permitted by Articles 3.1.2.3. to 3.1.2.7., every building or part thereof shall be classified according to its major occupancy as belonging to one of the Groups or Divisions described in Table 3.1.2.1. (See Note A-3.1.2.1.(1))
(2)A building intended for use by more than one major occupancy shall be classified according to all major occupancies for which it is used or intended to be used.
| Group | Division | Description of Major Occupancies |
|---|---|---|
| A | 1 | Assembly occupancies intended for the production and viewing of the performing arts |
| A | 2 | Assembly occupancies not elsewhere classified in Group A |
| A | 3 | Assembly occupancies of the arena type |
| A | 4 | Assembly occupancies in which occupants are gathered in the open air |
| B | 1 | Detention occupancies |
| B | 2 | Care and treatment occupancies |
| B | 3 | Care occupancies |
| C | --- | Residential occupancies |
| D | --- | Business and personal services occupancies |
| E | --- | Mercantile occupancies |
| F | 1 | High-hazard industrial occupancies |
| F | 2 | Medium-hazard industrial occupancies |
| F | 3 | Low-hazard industrial occupancies |
3.1.2.2. Occupancies of the Same Classification Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Any building is deemed to be occupied by a single major occupancy, notwithstanding its use for more than one major occupancy, provided that all occupancies are classified as belonging to the same Group classification or, where the Group is divided into Divisions, as belonging to the same Division classification described in Table 3.1.2.1.
3.1.2.3. Arena-Type Buildings Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)An arena-type building intended for occasional use for trade shows and similar exhibition purposes shall be classified as Group A, Division 3 occupancy. (See Note A-3.1.2.3.(1))
3.1.2.4. Police Stations Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)A police station with detention quarters is permitted to be classified as a Group B, Division 2 major occupancy provided the station is not more than 1 storey in building height and 600 m2 in building area.
3.1.2.5. Group B, Division 3 Occupancies Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Group B, Division 3 occupancies are permitted to be classified as Group C major occupancies within the application of Part 3 provided
(a)the occupants live as a single housekeeping unit in a suite with sleeping accommodation for not more than 10 persons, and
(b)not more than two occupants require assistance in evacuation in case of an emergency.
3.1.2.6. Storage of Combustible Fibres Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Buildings or parts of thereof used for the storage of baled combustible fibres shall be classified as medium-hazard industrial occupancies.
3.1.2.7. Restaurants Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)A restaurant is permitted to be classified as a Group E major occupancy within the application of Part 3 provided the restaurant is designed to accommodate not more than 30 persons consuming food or drink.
3.1.3. Multiple Occupancy Requirements Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.3.1. Separation of Major Occupancies Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), major occupancies shall be separated from adjoining major occupancies by fire separations having fire-resistance ratings conforming to Table 3.1.3.1.
(2)In a building not more than 3 storeys in building height, if not more than two dwelling units are contained together with a Group E major occupancy, the fire-resistance rating of the fire separation between the two major occupancies need not be more than 1 h.
(3)In a building conforming to the requirements of Articles 3.2.8.2. to 3.2.8.8., the requirements of Sentence (1) for fire separations between major occupancies do not apply at the vertical plane around the perimeter of an opening through the horizontal fire separation.
| Major Occupancy | Minimum Fire-Resistance Rating of Fire Separation, h | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adjoining Major Occupancy | |||||||||||||
| A-1 | A-2 | A-3 | A-4 | B-1 | B-2 | B-3 | C | D | E | F-1 | F-2 | F-3 | |
| A-1 | — | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| A-2 | 1 | — | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1(3) | 1(4) | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| A-3 | 1 | 1 | — | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| A-4 | 1 | 1 | 1 | — | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 1 |
| B-1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | — | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 2 |
| B-2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | — | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 2 |
| B-3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | — | 2 | 2 | 2 | (2) | 2 | 2 |
| C | 1 | 1(3) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | — | 1 | 2(5) | (2) | 2(6) | 1(7) |
| D | 1 | 1(4) | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 | — | (8) | 3 | (8) | (8) |
| E | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2(5) | (8) | — | 3 | — | — |
| F-1 | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | (2) | 3 | 3 | — | 2 | 2 |
| F-2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2(6) | (8) | — | 2 | — | — |
| F-3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1(7) | (8) | — | 2 | — | — |
Notes to Table 3.1.3.1.:
3.1.3.2. Prohibition of Occupancy Combinations Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)No major occupancy of Group F, Division 1 shall be contained within a building with any occupancy classified as Group A, B or C.
(2)Except as provided in Sentence (4) and Sentence 3.10.2.4.(9), not more than one suite of residential occupancy shall be contained within a building classified as a Group F, Division 2 major occupancy.
(3)A sleeping room or sleeping area shall not open directly into a room or area where food is intended to be stored, prepared, processed, distributed, served, sold or offered for sale. (See Note A-3.1.3.2.(3))
(4)A Group F, Division 2 major occupancy is permitted in a building containing only live/work units if the occupancy is for the exclusive use of the occupants of the live/work units.
(5)A building within the scope of Article 3.2.2.51. or 3.2.2.60. shall not contain a retirement home.
3.1.4. Combustible Construction Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.4.1. Combustible Materials Permitted Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)A building permitted to be of combustible construction is permitted to be constructed of combustible materials, with or without noncombustible components. (See Note A-3.1.4.1.(1))
3.1.4.2. Protection of Foamed Plastics (See Note A-3.1.4.2.) Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as permitted in Sentence (2), foamed plastics that form part of a wall or ceiling assembly in combustible construction shall be protected from adjacent spaces in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within attic or roof spaces, crawl spaces, and wall and ceiling assemblies,
(a)by one of the interior finishes described in Subsections 9.29.4. to 9.29.9.,
(b)provided the building does not contain a Group A, Group B or Group C major occupancy, by sheet metal
(i)mechanically fastened to the supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
(ii)not less than 0.38 mm thick, and
(iii)with a melting point not below 650°C, or
(c)any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of Sentence 3.1.5.15.(2). (See Note A-3.1.4.2.(1)(c))
(See Note A-3.1.4.2.(1))
(1.1)The flame-spread rating on any exposed surface of combustible insulation, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through it in any direction, shall be not more than 500.
(2)A walk-in cooler or freezer consisting of factory-assembled wall, floor or ceiling panels containing foamed plastics is permitted to be used in a building permitted to be of combustible construction, provided the panels
(a)are protected on both sides by sheet metal not less than 0.38 mm thick having a melting point not less than 650°C,
(b)do not contain an air space, and
(c)when a sample panel with an assembled joint typical of field installation is subjected to the applicable test described n Subsection 3.1.12., have a flame-spread rating not more than that permitted for the space in which they are located, the space that they bound, as applicable.
(See Note A-3.1.4.2.(2) and 3.1.5.7.(3))
(3)The flame-spread rating of doors containing foamed plastics shall comply with Sentences 3.1.13.2.(1) to (3).
3.1.4.3. Wires and Cables Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as required by Sentence (2), optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables with combustible insulation, jackets or sheathes installed in a building permitted to be of combustible construction shall
(a)not convey flame or continue to burn for more than 1 min when tested in conformance with the Vertical Flame Test (FT1 rating) in CSA C22.2 No. 0.3, “Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables,” or
(b)be located in
(i)totally enclosed noncombustible raceways, (See Note A-3.1.4.3.(1)(b)(i))
(ii)masonry walls,
(iii)concrete slabs, or
(iv)totally enclosed non-metallic raceways conforming to Clause 3.1.5.23.(1)(b).
(See Note A-3.1.4.3.(1)) (See also Sentence 3.6.4.3.(1))
(2)Except as permitted in Sentences (3) and (4), optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables with combustible insulation, jackets or sheathes that are used for the transmission of voice, sound or data and are installed in a plenum in a building permitted to be of combustible construction shall exhibit the following characteristics when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S102.4, “Standard Method of Test for Fire and Smoke Characteristics of Electrical Wiring, Cables and Non-Metallic Raceways,” (FT6 rating):
(a)a horizontal flame distance of not more than 1.5 m,
(b)an average optical smoke density of not more than 0.15, and
(c)a peak optical smoke density of not more than 0.5.
(3)Except as permitted in Sentence (4), where totally enclosed noncombustible raceways are used in a plenum, exposed components of wiring systems with combustible insulation, jackets or sheathes, including optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables that are used for the transmission of voice, sound or data, that are installed in the plenum or that extend not more than 9 m from the plenum, including drop down to the floor level, are permitted, provided they exhibit a vertical char of not more than 1.5 m when tested in conformance with the Vertical Flame Test – Cables in Cable Trays (FT4 rating) in CSA C22.2 No. 0.3, “Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables.”
(4)Cables or wires within plenums that are used for the transmission of signals in fire alarm systems need not comply with the requirements of Sentence (2).
3.1.4.4. Non-metallic Raceways Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Totally enclosed non-metallic raceways used in a plenum in a building permitted to be of combustible construction shall meet the requirements of Clause 3.1.5.23.(1)(a).
3.1.4.5. Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)If fire-retardant-treated wood is specified in this Part, the wood shall
(a)be pressure impregnated with fire-retardant chemicals in conformance with CAN/CSA-O80 Series, “Wood preservation,” and
(b)have a flame-spread rating not more than 25.
3.1.4.6. Heavy Timber Construction Alternative Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)If combustible construction is permitted and is not required to have a fire-resistance rating more than 45 min, heavy timber construction is permitted to be used.
(2)If heavy timber construction is permitted, it shall conform to Article 3.1.4.7.
3.1.4.7. Heavy Timber Construction Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Wood elements in heavy timber construction shall be arranged in heavy solid masses and with essentially smooth flat surfaces to avoid thin sections and sharp projections.
(2)Except as permitted by Sentences (3) to (6) and (12), the minimum dimensions of wood elements in heavy timber construction shall conform to Table 3.1.4.7.
(3)Where splice plates are used at splices of roof arches supported on the tops of walls or abutments, roof trusses, roof beams and roof girders in heavy timber construction, they shall be not less than 64 mm thick.
(4)Floors in heavy timber construction shall be of glued-laminated or solid sawn plank not less than
(a)64 mm thick, splined or tongued and grooved, or
(b)38 mm wide and 89 mm deep set on edge and well-spiked together.
| Supported Assembly | Structural Element | Solid Sawn (width × depth), mm × mm | Glued-Laminated (width × depth), mm × mm | Round (diam), mm |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roofs only | Columns | 140 × 191 | 130 × 190 | 180 |
| Arches supported on the tops of walls or abutments | 89 × 140 | 80 × 152 | --- | |
| Beams, girders and trusses | 89 × 140 | 80 × 152 | --- | |
| Arches supported at or near the floor line | 140 × 140 | 130 × 152 | --- | |
| Floors, floors plus roofs | Columns | 191 × 191 | 175 × 190 | 200 |
| Beams, girders, trusses and arches | 140 × 241 or 191 × 191 | 130 × 228 or 175 × 190 | --- |
(5)Floors in heavy timber construction shall be laid
(a)so that no continuous line of end joints will occur except at points of support, and covered with
(i)tongued and grooved flooring not less than 19 mm thick laid crosswise or diagonally, or
(ii)tongued and grooved phenolic-bonded plywood, strandboard or waferboard not less than 12.5 mm thick, and
(b)not closer than 15 mm to the walls to provide for expansion, with the gap covered at the top or bottom.
(6)Roofs in heavy timber construction shall be of tongued and grooved phenolic-bonded plywood, strandboard or waferboard not less than 28 mm thick, or glued-laminated or solid sawn plank that is
(a)not less than 38 mm thick, splined or tongued and grooved, or
(b)not less than 38 mm wide and 64 mm deep set on edge and laid so that no continuous line of end joints will occur except at the points of support.
(7)Wood columns in heavy timber construction shall be continuous or superimposed throughout all storeys.
(8)Superimposed wood columns in heavy timber construction shall be connected by
(a)reinforced concrete or metal caps with brackets,
(b)steel or iron caps with pintles and base plates, or
(c)timber splice plates fastened to the columns by metal connectors housed within the contact faces.
(9)Where beams and girders in heavy timber construction enter masonry, wall plates, boxes of the self-releasing type or hangers shall be used.
(10)Wood girders and beams in heavy timber construction shall be closely fitted to columns, and adjoining ends shall be connected by ties or caps to transfer horizontal loads across the joints.
(11)In heavy timber construction, intermediate wood beams used to support a floor shall be supported on top of the girders or on metal hangers into which the ends of the beams are closely fitted.
(12)Roof arches supported on the tops of walls or abutments, roof trusses, roof beams and roof girders in heavy timber construction are permitted to be not less than 64 mm wide provided
(a)where two or more spaced members are used, the intervening spaces are
(i)blocked solidly throughout, or
(ii)tightly closed by a continuous wood cover plate not less than 38 mm thick secured to the underside of the members, or
(b)the underneath of the roof deck or sheathing is sprinklered.
3.1.4.8. Cladding Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), not less than 90% of the exterior cladding on each exterior wall of buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.51. or 3.2.2.60. shall consist of
(a)noncombustible cladding, or
(b)except as provided in Sentence (4), a wall assembly that satisfies the criteria of Clause 3.1.5.5.(1)(b).
(See Note A-3.1.4.8.(1)) (See also Notes A-3.1.5.5.(1)(b)(i) and A-3.1.5.5.(1)(b)(ii))
(2)Where a building is considered to face 1 street in accordance with Clause 3.2.2.10.(3)(b), the exterior cladding on each exterior wall of buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.51. or 3.2.2.60. shall consist of
(a)noncombustible cladding, or
(b)except as provided in Sentence (4), a wall assembly that satisfies the criteria of Clause 3.1.5.5.(1)(b).
(3)A wall assembly conforming to Clause (1)(b) or (2)(b) that includes combustible cladding made of fire-retardant-treated wood shall be tested for fire exposure after the cladding has been subjected to the accelerated weathering test specified in ASTM D2898, “Standard Practice for Accelerated Weathering of Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing.”
(4)An exterior wall assembly constructed in conformance with Section 6 of MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-2, “Fire Performance Ratings” is deemed to satisfy the criteria of Clause (1)(b) and (2)(b).
3.1.5. Noncombustible Construction Copy linkAdd bookmark
3.1.5.1. Noncombustible Materials (See Note A-3.1.4.1.(1)) Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as permitted by Sentences (2) to (4) and Articles 3.1.5.2. to 3.1.5.29., 3.1.13.4. and 3.2.2.16., a building or part of a building required to be of noncombustible construction, shall be constructed with noncombustible materials. (See also Subsection 3.1.13. for the requirements regarding the flame-spread rating of interior finishes.)
(2)Notwithstanding the definition of noncombustible materials stated in Article 1.4.1.2. of Division A, a material is permitted to be used in noncombustible construction provided that, when tested in accordance with ULC S135, “Standard Test Method for the Determination of Combustibility Parameters of Building Materials Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter (Cone Calorimeter)”, at a heat flux of 50 kW/m2,
(a)its average total heat release is not more than 3 MJ/m2,
(b)its average total smoke extinction area is not more than 1.0 m2, and
(c)the test duration is extended beyond the time stipulated in the referenced standard until it is clear that there is no further release of heat or smoke.
(3)If a material referred to in Sentence (2) consists of a number of discrete layers and testing reveals that the surface layer or layers protect the underlying layers such that complete combustion of the underlying layers does not occur, the test shall be repeated by removing the outer layers sequentially until all layers have been exposed during testing, or until complete combustion has occurred.
(4)The acceptance criteria for a material tested in accordance with Sentence (3) shall be based on the cumulative emissions from all layers, which must not exceed the criteria stated in Clauses (2)(a) and (b).
3.1.5.2. Minor Combustible Components Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)The following minor combustible components are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction:
(a)paint, (See also Clause 3.1.13.1.(2)(b))
(b)self-adhesive tapes, mastics and caulking materials including foamed plastic air sealants, applied to provide a seal between the major components of exterior wall construction, (See also Article 3.6.4.3. for limits on the use of combustible materials in plenum spaces),
(c)firestops and fire blocks conforming to Sentence 3.1.9.1.(1) Article 3.1.11.7.,
(d)tubing for pneumatic controls provided it has an outside diameter not more than 10 mm,
(e)adhesives, vapour barriers and sheathing papers,
(f)electrical outlet and junction boxes,
(g)wood blocking intended for the attachment of window elements within exterior wall assemblies,
(h)wood blocking within wall assemblies intended for the attachment of handrails, fixtures, and similar items mounted on the surface of the wall, and
(i)similar minor components.
3.1.5.3. Combustible Roofing Materials Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Combustible roof covering that has an A, B or C classification determined in conformance with Subsection 3.1.15. is permitted on a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
(2)Combustible roof sheathing and roof sheathing supports installed above a concrete deck are permitted on a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
(a)the concrete deck is not less than 50 mm thick,
(b)the height of the roof space above the deck is not more than 1 m,
(c)the roof space is divided into compartments by fire blocks in conformance with Article 3.1.11.5.,
(d)openings through the concrete deck, other than for noncombustible roof drains and plumbing piping, are protected by masonry or concrete shafts
(i)constructed as fire separations having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
(ii)extending from the concrete deck to not less than 150 mm above the adjacent roof sheathing,
(e)the perimeter of the roof is protected by a noncombustible parapet extending from the concrete deck to not less than 150 mm above the adjacent sheathing, and
(f)except as permitted by Clause (d), the roof space does not contain any building services.
(3)Combustible cant strips, roof curbs, nailing strips and similar components used in the installation of roofing are permitted on a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
(4)Wood nailer facings to parapets that are not more than 610 mm high are permitted on a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided the facings and any roof membranes covering the facings are protected by sheet metal.
3.1.5.4. Combustible Windows, Glazing and Skylights Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Combustible skylight assemblies are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction if the assemblies have a flame-spread rating not more than
(a)150 provided the assemblies
(i)have an individual area not more than 9 m2,
(ii)have an aggregate horizontal projected area of the openings through the ceiling not more than 25% of the area of the ceiling of the room or space in which they are located, and
(iii)are spaced not less than 2.5 m from adjacent assemblies and 1 200 mm from required fire separations, or
(b)75 provided the assemblies
(i)have an individual area not more than 27 m2,
(ii)have an aggregate horizontal projected area of the openings through the ceiling not more than 33% of the area of the ceiling of the room or space in which they are located, and
(iii)are spaced not less than 1.2 m from adjacent assemblies and from required fire separations.
(See Note A-3.1.5.4.(1))
(2)Combustible vertical glazing installed no higher than the second storey is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
(3)Except as permitted by Sentence (4), the combustible vertical glazing permitted by Sentence (2) shall have a flame-spread rating not more than 75.
(4)The flame-spread rating of combustible glazing is permitted to be not more than 150 if the aggregate area of glazing is not more than 25% of the wall area of the storey in which it is located, and
(a)the glazing is installed in a building not more than 1 storey in building height,
(b)the glazing in the first storey is separated from the glazing in the second storey in accordance with the requirements of Article 3.2.3.17. for opening protection, or
(c)the building is sprinklered throughout.
(5)Combustible window sashes and frames are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided they are vertically non-contiguous between storeys.
3.1.5.5. Combustible Cladding on Exterior Walls Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), combustible cladding is permitted to be used on an exterior wall assembly in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided
(a)the building is
(i)not more than 3 storeys in building height, or
(ii)sprinklered throughout, and
(b)except as provided in Sentence (4), when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-S134, “Standard Method of Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies,” the wall assembly satisfies the following criteria for testing and conditions of acceptance: (See Note A-3.1.5.5.(1)(b))
(i)flaming on or in the wall assembly does not spread more than 5 m above the opening, and (See Note A-3.1.5.5.(1)(b)(i))
(ii)the heat flux during the flame exposure on the wall assembly is not more than 35 kW/m2 measured at 3.5 m above the opening. (See Note A-3.1.5.5.(1)(b)(ii))
(2)Except as permitted by Articles 3.2.3.10. and 3.2.3.11., where the limiting distance in Tables 3.2.3.1.-B to 3.2.3.1.-E permits an area of unprotected openings of not more than 10% of the exposing building face, the construction requirements of Table 3.2.3.7. shall be met.
(3)A wall assembly permitted by Sentence (1) that includes combustible cladding of fire-retardant-treated wood shall be tested for fire exposure after the cladding has been subjected to an accelerated weathering test as specified in ASTM D2898, “Standard Practice for Accelerated Weathering of Fire-Retardant-Treated Wood for Fire Testing.”
(4)Exterior wall assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 6 of MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-2, “Fire Performance Ratings” are deemed to comply with Clause (1)(b).
3.1.5.6. Combustible Components in Exterior Walls Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Combustible components, other than those permitted by Article 3.1.5.5. and Sentence 3.1.5.7.(2), are permitted to be used in an exterior wall assembly of a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided
(a)the building is
(i)not more than 3 storeys in building height, or
(ii)sprinklered throughout, and
(b)the wall assembly
(i)except as provided in Sentence (2), satisfies the criteria of Clause 3.1.5.5.(1)(b), or
(ii)is protected by masonry or concrete cladding not less than 25 mm thick.
(See Note A-3.1.5.5.(1)(b))
(2)Exterior wall assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 6 of MMAH Supplementary Standard SB-2, “Fire Performance Ratings” are deemed to comply with Subclause (1)(b)(i).
3.1.5.7. Factory-Assembled Panels Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as provided in Sentence (2), factory-assembled wall and ceiling panels containing foamed plastic insulation with a flame-spread rating not more than 500 are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided
(a)the building
(i)is sprinklered,
(ii)is not more than 18 m high, measured from grade to the underside of the roof, and
(iii)does not contain a Group A, Group B or Group C major occupancy, and
(b)the panels
(i)do not contain an air space,
(ii)when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-S138, “Standard Method of Test for Fire Growth of Insulated Building Panels in a Full-Scale Room Configuration,” meet the criteria defined therein, and
(iii)when a sample panel with an assembled joint typical of field installation is subjected to the applicable test described in Subsection 3.1.12., have a flame-spread rating not more than that permitted for the room or space that they bound.
(2)Factory-assembled exterior wall panels containing thermosetting foamed plastic insulation are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided
(a)the building
(i)is not more than 18 m high, measured from grade to the underside of the roof, and
(ii)does not contain a Group B or Group C major occupancy, and
(b)the wall panels
(i)do not contain an air space,
(ii)are protected on both sides by sheet steel not less than 0.38 mm thick,
(iii)remain in place for not less than 10 min when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Standard Method of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,” where the exposed surface includes typical vertical and horizontal joints, and
(iv)when a sample panel with an assembled joint typical of field installation is subjected to the applicable test described in Subsection 3.1.12., have a flame-spread rating not more than that permitted for the room or space that they bound.
(3)A walk-in cooler or freezer consisting of factory-assembled wall, floor or ceiling panels containing foamed plastic insulation with a flame-spread rating not more than 500 is permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided
(a)the building is sprinklered, and
(b)the panels
(i)are protected on both sides by sheet metal not less than 0.38 mm thick with a melting point not less than 650°C,
(ii)do not contain an air space,
(iii)when tested in accordance with CAN/ULC-S138, “Standard Method of Test for Fire Growth of Insulated Building Panels in a Full-Scale Room Configuration,” meet the criteria defined therein, and
(iv)when a sample panel with an assembled joint typical of field installation is subjected to the applicable test described in Subsection 3.1.12., have a flame-spread rating not more than that permitted for the space in which they are located or the space that they bound, as applicable.
(See Note A-3.1.4.2.(2) and 3.1.5.7.(3))
3.1.5.8. Nailing Elements Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Wood nailing elements attached directly to or set into a continuous noncombustible backing for the attachment of interior finishes are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided the concealed space created by the wood elements is not more than 50 mm thick.
3.1.5.9. Combustible Millwork Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Combustible millwork, including interior trim, doors and door frames, show windows together with their frames, aprons and backing, handrails, shelves, cabinets and counters, is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
3.1.5.10. Combustible Flooring Elements Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Combustible stage flooring supported on noncombustible structural members is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
(2)Wood members more than 50 mm but not more than 300 mm high applied directly to or set into a noncombustible floor slab are permitted for the construction of a raised platform in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided the concealed spaces created are divided into compartments by fire blocks in conformance with Sentence 3.1.11.3.(2).
(3)The floor system for the raised platform referred to in Sentence (2) is permitted to include combustible subfloor and combustible finished flooring.
(4)Combustible finished flooring is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
3.1.5.11. Combustible Stairs in Dwelling Units Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Combustible stairs are permitted in a dwelling unit in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
3.1.5.12. Combustible Interior Finishes Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except permitted in Sentences (2) and (3), combustible interior wall and ceiling finishes referred to in Clause 3.1.13.1.(2)(b) that are not more than 1 mm thick are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
(2)Combustible interior wall finishes, other than foamed plastics, that are not more than 25 mm thick are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided they have a flame-spread rating not more than 150 on any exposed surface or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction.
(3)Except as provided in Sentence (4), combustible interior ceiling finishes, other than foamed plastics, that are not more than 25 mm thick are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided they have a flame-spread rating not more than 25 on any exposed surface or on any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, except that not more than 10% of the ceiling area within each fire compartment is permitted to have a flame-spread rating not more than 150.
(4)Combustible interior ceiling finishes made of fire-retardant-treated wood are permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided they are not more than 25 mm thick or are exposed fire-retardant-treated wood battens.
3.1.5.13. Gypsum Board Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Gypsum board with a tightly adhering paper covering not more than 1 mm thick is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided the flame-spread rating of the surface is not more than 25.
3.1.5.14. Combustible Insulation (See Notes A-3.1.4.2. and A-3.1.4.2.(1)) Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Foamed plastic insulation shall conform to Article 3.1.5.15.
(2)Combustible insulation with a flame-spread rating not more than 25 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
(3)Combustible insulation is permitted to be installed above roof decks, outside of foundation walls below ground level and beneath concrete slabs-on-ground of buildings required to be of noncombustible construction.
(4)Except as provided in Sentences (5) and (6), combustible insulation with a flame-spread rating more than 25 but not more than 500 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier consisting of
(a)not less than 12.7 mm thick gypsum board mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
(b)lath and plaster, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
(c)masonry, or
(d)concrete.
(5)Combustible insulation with a flame-spread rating more than 25 but not more than 500 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, is permitted in the exterior walls of a building required to be of noncombustible construction that is not sprinklered and is more than 18 m high, measured from grade to the underside of the roof, provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier consisting of
(a)gypsum board not less than 12.7 mm thick, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation and with all joints either backed or taped and filled,
(b)lath and plaster, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
(c)masonry or concrete not less than 25 mm thick, or
(d)any thermal barrier that, when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Standard Method of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,” will not develop an average temperature rise more than 140°C or a maximum temperature rise more than 180°C at any point on its unexposed face within 10 min. (See Note A-3.1.5.14.(5)(d)) (See also Article 3.2.3.7.)
(6)Combustible insulation with a flame-spread rating more than 25 but not more than 500 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, is permitted in the interior walls, within ceilings and within roof assemblies of a building required to be of noncombustible construction that is not sprinklered and is more than 18 m high, measured from grade to the underside of the roof, provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier consisting of
(a)Type X gypsum board not less than 15.9 mm thick, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation and with all joints either backed or taped and filled, conforming to
(i)ASTM C1177 / C1177M, “Standard Specification for Glass Mat Gypsum Substrate for Use as Sheathing,”
(ii)ASTM C1178 / C1178M, “Standard Specification for Coated Glass Mat Water-Resistant Gypsum Backing Panel,”
(iii)ASTM C1396 / C1396M, “Standard Specification for Gypsum Board,”
(iv)ASTM C1658 / C1658M, “Standard Specification for Glass Mat Gypsum Panels,” or
(v)CAN/CSA-A82.27-M, “Gypsum Board,”
(b)of non-loadbearing masonry or concrete not less than 50 mm thick,
(c)loadbearing masonry or concrete not less than 75 mm thick, or
(d)any thermal barrier that, when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Standard Method of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,”
(i)does not develop an average temperature rise more than 140°C or a maximum temperature rise more than 180°C at any point on its unexposed face within 20 min, and
(ii)remains in place for not less than 40 min.
3.1.5.15. Foamed Plastic Insulation (See Notes A-3.1.4.2. and A-3.1.4.2.(1)) Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Foamed plastic insulation is permitted to be installed above roof decks, outside of foundation walls below ground level and beneath concrete slabs-on-ground of a building required to be of noncombustible construction.
(2)Except as provided in Sentences (3), (4) and 3.1.5.7.(1), foamed plastic insulation with a flame-spread rating not more than 500 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, is permitted in a building required to be of noncombustible construction, provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier consisting of
(a)not less than 12.7 mm thick gypsum board mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
(b)lath and plaster, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
(c)masonry,
(d)concrete, or
(e)any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of classification B when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S124, “Standard Method of Test for the Evaluation of Protective Coverings for Foamed Plastic”.
(3)Foamed plastic insulation with a flame-spread rating more than 25 but not more than 500 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, is permitted in the exterior walls of a building required to be of noncombustible construction that is not sprinklered and is more than 18 m high, measured from grade to the underside of the roof, provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier consisting of
(a)gypsum board not less than 12.7 mm thick, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation and with all joints either backed or taped and filled,
(b)lath and plaster, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation,
(c)masonry or concrete not less than 25 mm thick, or
(d)any thermal barrier that, when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Standard Method of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,” does not develop an average temperature rise more than 140°C or a maximum temperature rise more than 180°C at any point on its unexposed face within 10 min. (See Note A-3.1.5.14.(5)(d)) (See also Article 3.2.3.7.)
(4)Foamed plastic insulation with a flame-spread rating more than 25 but not more than 500 on any exposed surface, or any surface that would be exposed by cutting through the material in any direction, is permitted in the interior walls, within ceilings and within roof assemblies of a building required to be of noncombustible construction that is not sprinklered and is more than 18 m high, measured from grade to the underside of the roof, provided the insulation is protected from adjacent space in the building, other than adjacent concealed spaces within wall assemblies, by a thermal barrier consisting of
(a)Type X gypsum board not less than 15.9 mm thick, mechanically fastened to a supporting assembly independent of the insulation and with all joints either backed or taped and filled, conforming to
(i)ASTM C1177 / C1177M, “Standard Specification for Glass Mat Gypsum Substrate for Use as Sheathing,”
(ii)ASTM C1178 / C1178M, “Standard Specification for Coated Glass Mat Water-Resistant Gypsum Backing Panel,”
(iii)ASTM C1396 / C1396M, “Standard Specification for Gypsum Board,” or
(iv)CAN/CSA-A82.27-M, “Gypsum Board,”
(b)non-loadbearing masonry or concrete not less than 50 mm thick,
(c)loadbearing masonry or concrete not less than 75 mm thick, or
(d)any thermal barrier that, when tested in conformance with CAN/ULC-S101, “Standard Method of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials,”
(i)does not develop an average temperature rise more than 140°C or a maximum temperature rise more than 180°C at any point on its unexposed face within 20 min, and
(ii)remains in place for not less than 40 min.
3.1.5.16. Combustible Elements in Partitions Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as permitted by Sentence (2), solid lumber partitions not less than 38 mm thick and wood framing in partitions located in a fire compartment not more than 600 m2 in area are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction in a floor area that is not sprinklered provided the partitions
(a)are not required fire separations, and
(b)are not located in a care, care and treatment or detention occupancy or in a retirement home.
(2)Partitions installed in a building of noncombustible construction are permitted to contain wood framing provided
(a)the building is not more than 3 storeys in building height,
(b)the partitions are not located in a care, care and treatment or detention occupancy or in a retirement home, and
(c)the partitions are not installed as enclosures for exits or vertical service spaces.
(3)Solid lumber partitions not less than 38 mm thick and partitions that contain wood framing are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided
(a)the floor area containing the partitions is sprinklered throughout, and
(b)the partitions are not
(i)located in a care, care and treatment or detention occupancy or in a retirement home,
(ii)installed as enclosures for exits or vertical service spaces, or
(iii)used to satisfy the requirements of Clause 3.2.8.1.(1)(a).
3.1.5.17. Storage Lockers in Residential Buildings Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except in a retirement home, storage lockers in storage rooms are permitted to be constructed of wood in a building of residential occupancy required to be of noncombustible construction.
3.1.5.18. Combustible Ducts Copy linkAdd bookmark
(1)Except as required by Sentence 3.6.4.3.(1), combustible ducts, including plenums and duct connectors, are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided these ducts and duct connectors are used only in horizontal runs.
(2)Combustible duct linings, duct coverings, duct insulation, vibration isolation connectors, duct tape, pipe insulation and pipe coverings are permitted to be used in a building required to be of noncombustible construction provided they conform to the appropriate requirements of Subsection 3.6.5.
(3)In a building required to be of noncombustible construction, combustible ducts need not comply with the requirements of Sentences 3.6.5.1.(1) and (2) provided the ducts are
(a)part of a duct system conveying only ventilation air, and
(b)contained entirely within a dwelling unit.