Division B
Acceptable Solutions

Part 3 — Fire Protection, Occupant Safety and Accessibility

Section 3.3. Safety within Floor Areas

(See Appendix A.)

3.3.1. All Floor Areas

3.3.1.1. Separation of Suites
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) change beginto Sentence (4)change end, a suite shall be separated from adjoining suites by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h. (See also Subsection 3.3.3. for care, treatment or detention occupancies, Article 3.3.4.2. for residential occupancies, and Article 3.1.8.7. for fire dampers.)

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2) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
3) Intent StatementOccupancies that are served by public corridors conforming to Clause 3.3.1.4.(4)(b) in a building that is sprinklered throughout, are not required to be separated from one another by fire separations provided the occupancies are
a) suites of business and personal services occupancy,
b) fast food vending operations that do not provide seating for customers,
c) suites of mercantile occupancy, or
d) any combination of these occupancies.
4) No fire separation is required between suites of business and personal services occupancy.
3.3.1.2. Hazardous Substances, Equipment and Processes
1) Except as provided in Subsections 3.3.5. change beginand 3.3.6.change end, the storage, handling and use of hazardous substances shall be in conformance with
a) provincial regulations or municipal bylaws, or
b) in the absence of the regulations or bylaws referred to in Clause (a), the British Columbia Fire Code.
(See Appendix A.)

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2) Intent StatementCooking equipment, not within a dwelling unit, used in processes producing grease-laden vapours shall be designed and installed in conformance with Part 6. (See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementA fuel-fired appliance shall not be installed in a corridor serving as an access to exit.
3.3.1.3. Means of Egress
1) Intent StatementAccess to exit within floor areas shall conform to Subsections 3.3.2. to 3.3.5., in addition to the requirements of this Subsection.
2) Intent StatementIf a podium, terrace, platform or contained open space is provided, egress requirements shall conform to the appropriate requirements of Sentence 3.3.1.5.(1) for rooms and suites.
3) Intent StatementMeans of egress shall be provided from every roof which is intended for occupancy, and from every podium, terrace, platform or contained open space.
4) Intent StatementAt least two separate means of egress shall be provided from a roof, used or intended for an occupant load more than 60, to stairs designed in conformance with the requirements regarding exit stairs stated in Section 3.4.
5) Intent StatementA rooftop enclosure shall be provided with an access to exit that leads to an exit
a) at the roof level, or
b) on the storey immediately below the roof.
6) Intent StatementA rooftop enclosure which is more than 200 m2 in area shall be provided with at least 2 means of egress.
7) Intent StatementTwo points of egress shall be provided for a service space referred to in Sentence 3.2.1.1.(8) if
a) the area is more than 200 m2, or
b) the travel distance measured from any point in the service space to a point of egress is more than 25 m.
8) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences 3.3.4.4.(5) and (6), each suite in a floor area that contains more than one suite shall have
a) an exterior exit doorway, or
b) a doorway
i) into a public corridor, or
ii) to an exterior passageway.
9) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by this Section and by Sentence 3.4.2.1.(2), at the point where a doorway referred to in Sentence (8) opens onto a public corridor or exterior passageway, it shall be possible to go in opposite directions to each of 2 separate exits.
3.3.1.4. Public Corridor Separations
1) Intent StatementExcept as otherwise required by this Part or as permitted by Sentence (4), a public corridor shall be separated from the remainder of the storey by a fire separation.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3) and Clauses (4)(a) and (b), the fire separation between a public corridor and the remainder of the storey shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
3) Intent StatementIf a storey is sprinklered throughout, no fire-resistance rating is required for a fire separation between a public corridor and the remainder of the storey, provided the corridor does not serve a change begincare, treatment or detention occupancychange end or a residential occupancy. (See A-3.1.8.1.(1)(b) in Appendix A.)
4) Intent StatementNo fire separation is required in a sprinklered floor area between a public corridor and
a) except as required by Sentences 3.3.3.5.(9) and 3.3.4.2.(1), and notwithstanding Sentence 3.4.2.4.(2), the remainder of a storey, provided the travel distance from any part of the floor area to an exit is not more than 45 m,
b) a room or a suite, provided the public corridor complies with Sentence 3.3.1.9.(6) and Clause 3.4.2.5.(1)(d), or
c) a space containing plumbing fixtures required by Subsection 3.7.2., provided the space and the public corridor are separated from the remainder of the storey by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than that required between the public corridor and the remainder of the storey.
3.3.1.5. Egress Doorways
1) Intent StatementExcept for dwelling units, a minimum of 2 egress doorways located so that one doorway could provide egress from the room or suite as required by Article 3.3.1.3. if the other doorway becomes inaccessible to the occupants due to a fire which originates in the room or suite, shall be provided for every room and every suite
a) that is used for a high-hazard industrial occupancy and whose area is more than 15 m2,
b) intended for an occupant load more than 60,
c) in a floor area that is not sprinklered throughout, and
i) the area of a room or suite is more than the value in Table 3.3.1.5.A, or
ii) the travel distance within the room or suite to the nearest egress doorway is more than the value in Table 3.3.1.5.A, or
d) in a floor area that is sprinklered throughout and does not contain a high-hazard industrial occupancy and
i) the travel distance to an egress doorway is more than 25 m, or
ii) the area of the room or suite is more than the value in Table 3.3.1.5.B.
2) Intent Statementchange beginWhere 2 egress doorways are required by Sentence (1), they shall be placed at a distance from one another equal to or greater than one third of the maximum overall diagonal dimension of the area to be served, measured as the shortest distance that smoke would have to travel between the nearest required egress doors.change end
Table 3.3.1.5.A
Egress in Floor Area not Sprinklered Throughout
Forming part of Sentence 3.3.1.5.(1)

Occupancy of Room or Suite

Maximum Area of Room or Suite, m2

 Maximum Distance to Egress Doorway, m
Group A 150 15
Group C

100(1)

15(1)
Group D 200 25
Group E 150 15
Group F, Division 2 150 10
Group F, Division 3 200 15
Notes to Table 3.3.1.5.A:
(1) See Article 3.3.4.4. for dwelling units.
Table 3.3.1.5.B
Egress in Floor Area Sprinklered Throughout
Forming part of Sentence 3.3.1.5.(1)

Occupancy of Room or Suite

Maximum Area of Room or Suite, m2
Group A 200
Group B, Division 1 100
Group B, Division 2  
sleeping rooms 100
other than sleeping rooms 200

change beginGroup B, Division 3change end

  
change beginsleeping rooms not in suiteschange end

change begin100change end
change beginindividual suiteschange end

change begin150change end
change beginother than sleeping roomschange end

change begin200change end
Group C

150(1)
Group D 300
Group E 200
Group F, Division 2 200
Group F, Division 3 300
Notes to Table 3.3.1.5.B:
(1) See Article 3.3.4.4. for dwelling units.
3.3.1.6. Travel Distance
1) Intent StatementIf more than one egress doorway is required from a room or suite referred to in Article 3.3.1.5., the travel distance within the room or suite to the nearest egress doorway shall not exceed the maximum travel distances specified in Clauses 3.4.2.5.(1)(a), (b), (c) and (f) for exits.
3.3.1.7. [Reserved]

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3.3.1.8. Headroom Clearance
1) Intent StatementExcept within the floor area of a storage garage, the minimum headroom clearance in every access to exit shall conform to the requirements of Article 3.4.3.4. for exits. (See also Sentence 3.3.5.4.(5).)
3.3.1.9. Corridors
1) Intent StatementThe minimum width of a public corridor shall be 1 100 mm.
2) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentence 3.3.3.3.(3), the minimum unobstructed width of a corridor used by the public or a corridor serving classrooms or patients’ sleeping rooms shall be 1 100 mm.
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (4), obstructions located within 1 980 mm of the floor shall not project more than 100 mm horizontally into an exit passageway, a public corridor, a corridor used by the public or a corridor serving classrooms or patients’ sleeping rooms in a manner that would create a hazard for a person with a visual disability traveling adjacent to the walls.
4) Intent StatementThe horizontal projection of an obstruction referred to in Sentence (3) is permitted to be more than 100 mm provided the clearance between the obstruction and the floor is less than 680 mm. (See Appendix A.)
5) Intent StatementIf a corridor contains an occupancy, the occupancy shall not reduce the unobstructed width of the corridor to less than its required width.
6) Intent StatementIf a public corridor conforming to Clause 3.4.2.5.(1)(d) contains an occupancy,
a) the occupancy shall be located so that for pedestrian travel there is an unobstructed width not less than 3 m at all times adjacent and parallel to all rooms and suites that front onto the public corridor, and
b) the combined area of all occupancies in the public corridor shall be not more than 15% of the area of the public corridor.
7) Intent StatementExcept for a dead end corridor that is entirely within a suite or as permitted by Sentences 3.3.3.3.(1) and 3.3.4.4.(6), a dead end corridor is permitted provided it is not more than 6 m long.
3.3.1.10. Aisles
1) Except as otherwise stated in this Section, aisles shall be provided in conformance with the British Columbia Fire Code.

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3.3.1.11. Door Swing
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.3.1.12., a door that opens into a corridor or other facility providing access to exit from a suite or room not located within a suite shall swing on a vertical axis.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Article 3.3.1.12., a door that opens into a corridor or other facility providing access to exit from a room or suite that is used or intended for an occupant load more than 60 or for a high-hazard industrial occupancy shall swing in the direction of travel to the exit.
3) Intent StatementEvery door that divides a corridor that is not wholly contained within a suite shall swing on a vertical axis in the direction of travel to the exit.
4) Intent StatementIf a pair of doors is installed in a corridor that provides access to exit in both directions, the doors shall swing in opposite directions, with the door on the right hand side swinging in the direction of travel to the exit.
3.3.1.12. Sliding Doors
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (2), a sliding door provided in the locations described in Article 3.3.1.11. shall
a) be designed and installed to swing on the vertical axis in the direction of travel to the exit when pressure is applied, and
b) be identified as a swinging door by means of a label or decal affixed to it.
2) Intent StatementIn a Group B, Division 1 occupancy, or in an impeded egress zone in other occupancies, sliding doors used in an access to exit need not conform to Sentence (1) and Article 3.3.1.11.
3) Intent StatementMovable partitions used to separate a public corridor from an adjacent business and personal services occupancy or a mercantile occupancy need not conform to Sentence (1) and Sentences 3.3.1.11.(1) and (2), provided the partitions are not located in the only means of egress. (See Appendix A.)
3.3.1.13. Doors and Door Hardware
1) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as required by Article 3.3.3.4.,change end a door that opens into or is located within a public corridor or other facility that provides access to exit from a suite shall
a) provide a clear opening of not less than 800 mm if there is only one door leaf,
b) in a doorway with multiple leaves, have the active leaf providing a clear opening of not less than 800 mm, and,
c) not open onto a step.
2) Intent StatementA door in an access to exit shall be readily openable in travelling to an exit without requiring keys, special devices or specialized knowledge of the door opening mechanism, except that this requirement does not apply to a door serving a contained use area, or an impeded egress zone, provided the locking devices conform to Sentence (6).
3) Except as permitted by Sentence (4), door release hardware shall be operable by one hand and the door shall be openable with not more than one releasing operation. (See also change beginClause (10)(c)change end.)

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4) Intent StatementAn egress door from an individual dwelling unit or from a suite of residential occupancy is permitted to be provided with additional devices that require a releasing operation additional to the main door release hardware, provided the devices are readily operable from the inside without the use of keys, special devices or specialized knowledge. (See Appendix A.)
5) Intent StatementDoor release hardware shall be installed not more than 1 200 mm above the finished floor.
6) Intent StatementAn egress door in an access to exit serving a contained use area or an impeded egress zone is permitted to be equipped with locking devices that can be released either locally or remotely in conformance with Sentence (7) or (8). (See Appendix A.)
7) Intent StatementLocal locking devices permitted by Sentence (6) shall be operable by a key from both sides of the door.
8) Intent StatementControls for the remote release of door locking devices permitted by Sentence (6) shall be located in an area readily available to security personnel.
9) Intent StatementLocking devices permitted by Sentence (6) that are electrically operated shall be
a) designed to operate on emergency power, and
b) capable of manual release by security personnel.
10) Door assemblies providing access shall
a) conform to Clauses (1)(a) and (1)(b),
b) have a clear and level area
i) change beginfor manual doors swinging into this area,change end not less than 1 500 mm long by a width equal to the door assembly width plus not less than 600 mm clear space beside the latching jamb of the door,
ii) change beginfor manual doors swinging away from this area,change end not less than 1 200 mm long by a width equal to the door assembly width plus not less than 300 mm clear space beside the latching jamb of the door,
iii) for power operated sliding doors or power operated doors swinging away from change beginthischange end area, not less than 1 100 mm long by the width of the door assembly, and
iv) for power operated doors swinging into change beginthischange end area, not less than 1 100 mm long plus the arc of the door swing by the width of the door assembly,
c) be operable by devices which do not require tight grasping, or twisting of the wrist, as the only means of operation,
d) operate when a force of not more than 38 N for exterior doors and not more than 22 N for interior doors is applied at the handle, push plate or latch-releasing device, except for locations where greater pressures are required to ensure proper building function, and
e) if equipped with a closer, have a closing period of not less than 3 seconds measured from the door in an open position of 70° to the doorway to a point 75 mm from the closed position measured from the leading edge of the latch side of the door.
(See Appendix Note A-3.8.)

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11) In doorways, where thresholds are not flush with the floor, the difference in level shall be not more than 13 mm and shall be beveled.
12) Doors which are installed in series shall be separated by a space not less than 1 200 mm plus the width of any door swinging into the separating space. (See also Clause 3.2.8.5.(1)(a) and 3.3.5.7.(4)(a).)
3.3.1.14. Ramps and Stairways
1) Except as permitted by Sentence (2), change beginArticle 3.3.1.16., andchange end Article 3.3.4.7. ramps and stairways that do not serve as exits shall conform to the dimensional, guard, handrail and slip-resistance requirements for exit ramps and stairways stated in Sentence 3.4.3.2.(8) and Articles 3.4.3.4., and 3.4.6.1. change beginto 3.4.6.8.change end

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2) Intent StatementRamps and stairways that do not conform to the requirements of Sentence (1) are permitted to serve service rooms and service spaces and in industrial occupancies, provided the ramps and stairways are intended only for occasional use for servicing equipment and machinery.
3.3.1.15. Exterior Passageways
1) Intent StatementAn exterior passageway leading to a required exit shall conform to the requirements of Section 3.4. for exterior exit passageways.
3.3.1.16. Curved or Spiral Stairs
1) A curved or spiral stair is permitted in a stairway not required as an exit, provided the stair has
a) treads with
i) a minimum run not less than 150 mm, and
ii) an average run not less than 200 mm,
b) risers in conformance with Sentence 3.4.6.8.(2)change begin, andchange end
c) a handrail on each side.

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3.3.1.17. Capacity of Access to Exits
(See Article 3.3.1.9. for minimum widths of corridors.)
1) Intent StatementThe capacity of an access to exit shall be based on the occupant load of the portion of the floor area served.
2) Intent StatementIn an access to exit the required width of ramps with a slope not more than 1 in 8, doorways, and corridors shall be based on not less than 6.1 mm per person.
3) Intent StatementIn an access to exit the required width of a ramp with a slope more than 1 in 8 shall be based on not less than 9.2 mm per person.
4) Intent StatementIn an access to exit from a floor area used or intended to be used for patients in a Group B, Division 2 occupancy change beginor residents in a Group B, Division 3 occupancy,change end the required width of corridors, doorways, and ramps shall be based on not less than 18.4 mm per person.
5) Intent StatementThe capacity of stairs in an access to exit shall conform to the requirements for stairs in Sentences 3.4.3.2.(1) to (3).
3.3.1.18. Guards
1) Intent StatementExcept as provided in Sentence (4) and Article 3.3.2.9., a guard not less than 1 070 mm high shall be provided
a) around any roof to which access is provided for purposes other than maintenance,
b) at openings into smoke shafts referred to in Subsection 3.2.6. that are less than 1 070 mm above the floor, and
c) at each raised floor, mezzanine, balcony, gallery, interior or exterior vehicular ramp, and at other locations where the difference in level is more than 600 mm.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence 3.3.2.9.(4) and unless it can be shown that the size of openings that exceed this limit does not present a hazard, there shall be no opening that permits the passage of a sphere whose diameter is more than 100 mm through a guard serving
a) an exterior balcony, or
b) a room, stairway, or space not within a suite of residential occupancy.
3) Intent StatementUnless it can be shown that the location and size of openings do not present a hazard, guards shall be designed so that no member, attachment or opening located between 140 mm and 900 mm above the level protected by the guard facilitates climbing.
4) Intent StatementSentence (1) does not apply to the front edges of stages or to loading docks.
3.3.1.19. Transparent Doors and Panels
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (4), a glass or transparent door shall be designed and constructed so that the existence and position of the door is readily apparent, by attaching non-transparent hardware, bars or other permanent fixtures to it.
2) Intent StatementA glass door shall be constructed of
a) laminated or tempered safety glass conforming to CAN/CGSB-12.1-M, “Tempered or Laminated Safety Glass,” or
b) wired glass conforming to CAN/CGSB-12.11-M, “Wired Safety Glass.”
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (4), transparent panels used in an access to exit that, because of their physical configuration or design, could be mistaken as a means of egress shall be made inaccessible by barriers or railings.
4) Intent StatementSliding glass partitions that separate a public corridor from an adjacent occupancy and that are open during normal working hours need not conform to Sentences (1) and (3), provided the partitions are suitably marked to indicate their existence and position.
5) Intent StatementGlass in doors and in sidelights that could be mistaken for doors, within or at the entrances to dwelling units and in public areas, shall conform to the requirements of Article 9.6.1.4.
6) Intent StatementA window in a public area that extends to less than 1 000 mm above the floor and is located above the second storey in a building of residential occupancy, shall be protected by a barrier or railing to not less than 1 070 mm above the floor, or the window shall be non-openable and designed to withstand the lateral design loads for balcony guards required by Article 4.1.5.14.
3.3.1.20. Exhaust Ventilation and Explosion Venting
1) Intent StatementAn exhaust ventilation system designed in conformance with the appropriate requirements of Part 6 shall be provided in a building or part of a building in which dust, fumes, gases, vapour or other impurities or contaminants have the potential to create a fire or explosion hazard. (See also Article 4.2.4.13.)
2) Intent StatementExplosion relief devices, vents or other protective measures conforming to Subsection 6.2.2. shall be provided for a space in which substances or conditions that have the potential to create an explosion hazard are present as a result of the principal use of a building.
3.3.1.21. Janitors’ Rooms
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), a room or space within a floor area for the storage of janitorial supplies shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
2) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
3) Intent StatementThe fire separation required by Sentence (1) is not required to have a fire-resistance rating if the floor area in which the room or space is located is sprinklered throughout.
3.3.1.22. Common Laundry Rooms
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) and (3), in a building of residential occupancy, a laundry room in a floor area that is not within a dwelling unit shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
2) Intent Statement The fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
3) Intent StatementThe fire separation required by Sentence (1) is not required to have a fire-resistance rating if the floor area in which the laundry room is located is sprinklered throughout.
3.3.1.23. Obstructions
1) Intent StatementNo obstruction shall be permitted in any occupancy that would restrict the width of a normal means of egress from any part of a floor area to less than 750 mm unless an alternative means of egress is provided adjacent to, accessible from, and plainly visible from the obstructed means of egress. (See Appendix A.)
3.3.1.24. Signs in Service Spaces
1) Intent StatementIlluminated signs conforming to Sentences 3.4.5.1.(2) and (6) shall be provided to indicate the direction to egress points in a service space referred to in Sentence 3.2.1.1.(8).
3.3.1.25. Welding and Cutting
1) Intent StatementExcept as provided in Sentence (2), welding and cutting operations shall be carried out in a room
a) separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, or
b) protected by an automatic fire extinguishing system.
2) Intent StatementSentence (1) shall not apply to industrial occupancies where the welding and cutting operations do not present a fire or explosion hazard to adjacent areas.

3.3.2. Assembly Occupancy

3.3.2.1. Scope
1) Intent StatementThis Subsection applies to assembly occupancies and to outdoor places of assembly.
2) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as required in Sentence (3), provisions 12.2.3.2, 12.2.3.3, 12.2.5.4, 12.2.5.5, 12.2.5.6, 12.2.11.1, 12.4.1 and 12.4.2 of Chapter 12 of NFPA 101, “Life Safety Code,” are permitted to be used in lieu of Articles 3.3.2.4., 3.3.2.5., 3.3.2.9., 3.3.2.10. and 3.3.2.11. (See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementThe minimum clear width of aisle accessways between rows of seats shall be calculated according to provisions 12.2.5.5.2, 12.2.5.5.4.1 and 12.2.5.5.5.1 of Chapter 12 of NFPA 101, “Life Safety Code,” except that in no case shall the width be less than 400 mm.change end
3.3.2.2. Fire Separations
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (2), the seating area of a Group A, Division 1 occupancy shall be separated from adjacent occupancies in the floor area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h if the occupant load in the seating area exceeds 200.
2) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
3) Intent StatementIf usable space exists under tiers of seats in arena-type buildings, a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min shall be provided between the space and the seats or the space shall be sprinklered.
3.3.2.3. Non-fixed Seating
1) Non-fixed seating shall conform to the British Columbia Fire Code.

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3.3.2.4. Fixed Seats
1) Intent StatementExcept for the requirements of Article 3.3.2.8. for bench-type seats and except as required or permitted by Sentence (2) and Articles 3.3.2.10. and 3.3.2.11., fixed seats in places of assembly shall be
a) attached or secured to the floor, platform or platform riser,
b) provided with arms and back, and
c) arranged in rows having an unobstructed passage not less than 400 mm wide measured horizontally between plumb lines from the backs of the seats in one row and the edges of the furthest forward projection of the seats in the next row in the unoccupied position.
2) Intent StatementFor fixed seats with backs and with folding tablet arms, the value of 400 mm required by Clause (1)(c) shall be measured when the tablet arms are in the use position, but is permitted to be measured in the stored position provided
a) there are not more than 7 seats between any seat and the nearest aisle,
b) the seats are located in a lecture hall or an auditorium used for instructional purposes, and
c) the tablet arm, when raised manually to a vertical position, falls by the force of gravity to the stored position.
(See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (4), aisles shall be located so that there are not more than 7 seats with backs or 20 seats without backs between any seat and the nearest aisle.
4) Intent StatementThe requirements of Sentence (3) do not apply if
a) egress doorways are provided to serve both ends of rows of seats,
b) each doorway referred to in Clause (a) serves not more than 3 rows of seats, and
c) each row contains not more than 100 seats.
3.3.2.5. Aisles
1) Intent StatementExcept as required by Articles 3.3.2.10. and 3.3.2.11., aisles leading to exits shall be provided in conformance with Sentences (2) to (17) in places of assembly which contain fixed seats.
2) Intent StatementThe minimum clear width of aisles shall be not less than 1 100 mm, except that the width is permitted to be reduced to not less than
a) 750 mm if serving not more than 60 seats, and
b) 900 mm if serving seats on one side only.
3) Intent StatementExcept in the case of bleacher seats, the minimum clear width of aisles referred to in Sentence (2) shall be measured at the point farthest from an exit, cross aisle or foyer and shall be increased by 25 mm for each metre of distance toward the exit, cross aisle or foyer.
4) Intent StatementAisles shall terminate in a cross aisle, foyer or exit, and the width of the cross aisle, foyer or exit shall be not less than the required width of the widest aisle plus 50% of the total required width of the remaining aisles that it serves.
5) Intent StatementDead-end aisles shall be not more than 6 m long.
6) Intent StatementThe length of travel to an exit door by any aisle shall be not more than 45 m.
7) Intent StatementSide aisles shall be not less than 1 100 mm wide if seating is provided in conformance with Sentence 3.3.2.4.(4).
8) Intent StatementAn aisle that has a slope not more than 1 in 8 shall not be stepped.
9) Intent StatementAn aisle that slopes more than 1 in 8 shall be stepped.
10) Intent StatementThe passageway between rows of seats served by a stepped aisle shall be level at right angles to the line of travel.
11) Intent StatementThe riser of a step in an aisle shall be
a) not less than 110 mm high, and
b) not more than 200 mm high.
12) Intent StatementVariations are permitted in riser height provided
a) the height of adjacent risers does not vary by more than 6 mm, and
b) the width of a tread or a platform in the direction of travel is not less than 430 mm.
13) Intent StatementSteps in an aisle shall
a) have a run not less than 230 mm exclusive of nosings,
b) have a tread width not less than 250 mm,
c) extend to the adjacent rows of seats in a manner that will not create a hazard from tripping, and
d) have a finish on the treads conforming to Sentence 3.4.6.1.(1).
14) Intent StatementThe location of every riser in an aisle shall be made apparent from both directions of travel by strategically placed lighting or contrasting marking stripes.
15) Intent StatementA platform in an aisle shall be level, except that a slope not more than 1 in 50 is permitted for a platform that is not less than 430 mm wide in the direction of exit travel.
16) Intent StatementIf a step is used at the entry to a row of seats from a stepped aisle, an unobstructed platform not less than 800 mm square shall be provided adjacent to the aisle.
17) Intent StatementThe finish of the surface of a platform in or adjacent to a stepped aisle shall conform to Sentence 3.4.6.1.(1).
3.3.2.6. Corridors
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) to (4), a corridor used by the public in an assembly occupancy as an access to exit shall be separated from the remainder of the floor area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
2) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
3) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be waived if the floor area in which the corridor is located is sprinklered throughout.
4) Intent StatementThe requirement for a fire separation stated in Sentence (1) is permitted to be waived if the distance from any point in the floor area to an exit measured along the path of travel to the exit does not exceed the travel distance permitted by Article 3.4.2.5.
3.3.2.7. Doors
1) A door equipped with a latching mechanism in an access to exit from a room or suite of assembly occupancy containing an occupant load more than 100 shall be equipped with a device that will release the latch and allow the door to swing wide open when a force not more than that specified in change beginClause 3.3.1.13.(10)(d)change end is applied to the device in the direction of travel to the exit.

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3.3.2.8. Fixed Bench-Type Seats without Arms
1) Intent StatementIf fixed bench-type seats without arms are provided, the seat width per person shall be assumed to be 450 mm.
2) Intent StatementThe centre-to-centre spacing between rows of bench-type seats shall be not less than 760 mm if back rests are provided, and not less than 550 mm if back rests are not provided.
3) Intent StatementA clear space of not less than 300 mm shall be provided between the back of each seat and the front of the seat immediately behind it.
3.3.2.9. Guards
1) Intent StatementExcept as required by Sentences (2) to (4) for bleacher seats, guards shall be installed in outdoor and indoor places of assembly with fixed seats so that
a) at the fascia of every box, balcony or gallery where the seats extend to the edge, the height of guards is not less than
i) 760 mm in front of the seats, and
ii) 920 mm if located at the end of aisles or at the foot of steps,
b) the height of guards along every cross aisle other than those adjacent to the fascia of every box, balcony or gallery is not less than 660 mm, except that guards need not be provided if the backs of the seats along the front side of the aisle are not less than 600 mm above the floor of the aisle, and
c) where the seating is arranged in successive tiers and the height of rise between platforms is more than 450 mm, the height of guards is not less than 660 mm along the entire row of seats at the edge of the platform.
2) Intent StatementThe backs and ends of bleacher seats more than 1 200 mm above the ground or floor that are not adjacent to a wall shall be protected with a guard
a) not less than 1 070 mm high above an adjacent aisle surface or foot rest, and
b) not less than 920 mm high above the centre of an adjacent seat board.
3) Intent StatementIf the front of a bleacher is more than 600 mm above the ground or floor, it shall be protected with a guard not less than 840 mm high above the front foot rest.
4) Intent StatementThe size of any opening in a guard required by Sentences (2) and (3) shall not allow the passage of a sphere whose diameter is more than 300 mm.
3.3.2.10. Outdoor Places of Assembly
1) Intent StatementA Group A, Division 4 occupancy and each tier or balcony that has a capacity of more than
a) 1 000 persons shall have not less than  3 separate exits, or
b) 4 000 persons shall have not less than  4 separate exits.
2) Intent StatementIn a Group A, Division 4 occupancy, every seat shall be located so that the travel distance is not more than 45 m measured along the path of travel from the seat to
a) the ground,
b) an exit,
c) an opening to a passageway leading from the seating area, or
d) a portal, a vomitory or any other opening through the seating deck structure.
3) Intent StatementExits from outdoor stadia or grandstands shall be located not more than 25 m apart.
4) Intent StatementThe capacity of a means of egress for a Group A, Division 4 occupancy shall conform to the requirements of Sentence 3.4.3.2.(3).
5) Intent StatementAisles in a Group A, Division 4 occupancy shall
a) be located so that there are not more than 20 seats between any seat and the nearest aisle, and
b) be not less than 1 200 mm wide, except that an aisle serving less than 60 persons is permitted to be 750 mm wide.
3.3.2.11. Bleachers
1) Intent StatementSteps provided in aisles of bleachers of the telescopic type shall
a) have risers not more than 250 mm high, and
b) have treads with a run not less than 280 mm.
2) Intent StatementIf the vertical distance between seating platforms in bleachers is more than 280 mm, an intermediate step shall be provided the full width of the aisle and proportioned to provide 2 equal risers between platforms.
3) Intent StatementIf the vertical distance between seating platforms in bleachers is more than 450 mm, 2 intermediate steps shall be provided the full width of the aisle so that there are 3 equal risers between platforms.
4) Intent StatementIf the passageway between rows of seats is not a closed deck, footboards shall be provided so that
a) the total width of the footboards shall be not less than three quarters of the centre-to-centre spacing between rows of seats, and
b) the spacing between footboard members shall be not more than 25 mm.
5) Intent StatementOpenings above footboards and below the seats in rows of bleacher seats shall be provided with intermediate construction so that there is no opening that would permit the passage of a sphere of more than 100 mm in diameter.
3.3.2.12. Libraries
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (2), a library book storage room that is not normally accessible to the public shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h if it
a) is more than 250 m2 in area, or
b) contains book stacks that
i) are more than 10 m high, or
ii) penetrate more than one floor assembly.
2) Intent StatementThe fire separation required by Sentence (1) is not required if the book storage room is sprinklered.
3) Intent StatementOpen book shelves are permitted above and below a mezzanine floor in a library building provided the height of the shelves is not more than 2.1 m but not more than 75% of the floor-to-ceiling height of the space above or below the mezzanine floor assembly.
3.3.2.13. Stages for Theatrical Performances
1) Intent StatementA stage for theatrical performances and ancillary spaces, including workshops, dressing rooms and storage areas, shall be sprinklered.
2) Intent StatementA fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h shall be provided between a stage for theatrical performances and ancillary spaces, including workshops, dressing rooms and storage areas.
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (6), a stage for theatrical performances and ancillary spaces, including workshops, dressing rooms and storage areas, shall be separated from the seating area by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, except for a proscenium opening protected with
a) a sprinkler deluge system conforming to the requirements of NFPA 13, “Installation of Sprinkler Systems,”
b) an unframed fire curtain if the opening is not more than 20 m wide, or
c) a semi-rigid fire curtain if the opening is more than 20 m wide.
4) Intent StatementA fire curtain required by Sentence (3) shall be of a type acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction and designed to close
a) automatically upon the actuation of the sprinkler system,
b) automatically upon actuation of the fire alarm system, and
c) manually by remote control devices located at the curtain control panel and at each side of the stage.
5) Intent StatementAt least 2 vents for the purpose of venting fire and smoke to the outside of a building shall be provided above a stage designed for theatrical performances and shall
a) have an aggregate area not less than one eighth of the area of the stage behind the proscenium opening, and
b) be arranged to open automatically upon actuation of the sprinkler system.
6) Intent StatementThe fire separation referred to in Sentence (3) is not required between a stage and a seating area in a building that is sprinklered throughout, provided a sprinkler deluge system is installed at the boundary between the stage and the seating area.
3.3.2.14. Risers for Stairs
1) Intent StatementIn a Group A, Division 2 occupancy used for the serving of food and beverages, an interior flight of stairs with fewer than 3 risers is permitted provided it
a) is not less than 900 mm wide,
b) is illuminated at all times that occupants are on the premises, and
c) has a handrail on each side.
3.3.2.15. change beginStorage Rooms
1) Where storage rooms are required by Part 4 of Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code for the storage of flammable liquids or combustible liquids in assembly occupancies, such rooms shall not be located above or below the first storey.

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3.3.2.16. Daycare Facilities with Children under 30 Months
(See Appendix A.)
1) A daycare facility for children where children under 30 months are accommodated shall be located
a) in a building that is sprinklered throughout, or
b) not more than 1 storey above or below a storey with an exit that opens directly to the exterior of the building at ground level.
2) A fire alarm system shall be installed in a building that contains a daycare facility described in Sentence (1) if
a) the building contains one or more other suites, or
b) the daycare facility shares an interior means of egress.
3) If a fire alarm system is required by Sentence (2) or Subsection 3.2.4. to be installed in a daycare facility described in Sentence (1), smoke detectors shall be installed in
a) each room of the daycare facility, and
b) each corridor serving as part of a means of egress from the daycare facility.
4) If a fire alarm system is not installed in a daycare facility described in Sentence (1), smoke alarms conforming to CAN/ULC-S531, “Standard for Smoke Alarms,” shall be installed in
a) each room of the daycare facility, and
b) each corridor serving as part of a means of egress from the daycare facility.
5) Smoke alarms required by Sentence (4) shall
a) comply with Sentences 3.2.4.21.(6) and (10), and
b) if more than one smoke alarm is required, be wired so that the actuation of one of the required smoke alarms will cause all the required smoke alarms to sound.change end

3.3.3. Care, change beginTreatmentchange end or Detention Occupancies

3.3.3.1. change beginApplicationchange end
1) Intent StatementThis Subsection applies to change begincare, treatment and detention occupancieschange end. (See Appendix A.)
3.3.3.2. Separations between Care, change beginTreatmentchange end or Detention Occupancies and Repair Garages
1) Intent StatementThe fire separation required by Sentence 3.3.5.5.(1) between a care, change begintreatmentchange end or detention occupancy and a repair garage shall have no openings.
3.3.3.3. Corridors
1) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as provided in Sentence (2),change end a corridor used by the public or serving patients' change beginor residents’change end sleeping rooms shall have no dead-end portion.
2) Intent Statementchange beginCorridors are permitted to have dead-portions, where
a) the area served by the dead-end portion has a second and separate means of egress, or
b) the corridor serves a suite of care occupancy and the dead-end portion does not exceed 6 m.change end
3) Intent StatementCorridors shall be not less than
a) 2 400 mm wide change beginin buildings of treatment occupancy where the corridors may be used to move patients or residents in beds,change end
b) change begin1 650 mm widechange end
i) change beginin buildings of care or treatment occupancy where the corridors will not be used to move patients or residents in beds, andchange end
ii) change beginin buildings of care occupancy with more than 10 residents and where the corridors serve the residents, orchange end
c) change begin1 100 mm wide in buildings of care occupancy with not more than 10 residents.change end
4) Intent StatementPaired doors in a corridor referred to in Clause (3)(a) shall
a) swing in opposite directions, the right-hand door swinging in the direction of travel, and
b) be not less than 1 100 mm wide.
3.3.3.4. Doorway Width
1) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as provided in Sentence (2) and within individual suites of care occupancy, the minimum clear width of a doorway shall be 850 mm where it opens into or is located within a public corridor or other facility that provides access to exit for patients or residents in floor areas containing care or treatment occupancies.change end
2) Intent StatementThe minimum clear width of doorways through which it is necessary to move patients in bed shall be 1 050 mm. (See Appendix A.)
3.3.3.5. change beginCompartments and Fire Separationschange end
1) Intent StatementFloor areas containing patients’ change beginor residents’change end sleeping rooms in a change begincare or treatment occupancy where overnight sleeping accommodation is provided for more than a total of 10 patients or residentschange end shall conform to Sentences (2) to (14).
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3), a floor area change begindescribed in Sentence (1)change end shall be divided into not less than 2 fire compartments, each not more than 1 000 m2 in area.
3) Intent StatementThe floor area on either side of a horizontal exit conforming to Article 3.4.6.10. is permitted to be considered as a fire compartment in applying the requirements of this Article.
4) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (5), fire separations separating fire compartments required by Sentence (2) shall have a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
5) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of a fire separation referred to in Sentence (4) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
6) Intent StatementA closure in a fire separation between fire compartments referred to in Sentence (2) shall be weatherstripped or otherwise designed and installed to retard the passage of smoke. (See Appendix A.)
7) Intent StatementThe travel distance from any point within each fire compartment referred to in Sentence (2) to a door to an adjoining fire compartment shall be not more than 45 m.
8) Intent StatementEach fire compartment referred to in Sentence (2) shall be capable of accommodating, in addition to its own occupants, the occupants of the largest adjacent fire compartment based on a clear floor space of 2.5 m2 per patient in the adjacent fire compartment.
9) Intent StatementExcept as provided in change beginSentences (10) to (14)change end, walls between patients’ change beginor residents’change end sleeping rooms and the remainder of the floor area shall be constructed as fire separations but are not required to have a fire-resistance rating unless one is required by other provisions in this Part. (See A-3.1.8.1.(1)(b) in Appendix A.)
10) Intent StatementThe fire separation requirements of Sentence (9) do not apply to walls within a group of intercommunicating patients’ change beginor residents’ sleeping roomschange end, provided the group of rooms does not
a) contain more than 5 patients change beginor residentschange end, or
b) include storage, bathing or toilet facilities serving persons not occupying the group of rooms.
(See Appendix A.)
11) Intent Statementchange beginThe fire separation requirements of Sentence (9) do not apply to walls within individual suites of care occupancy.change end
12) Intent StatementA door in a fire separation required by Sentence (9) is permitted to be equipped with a roller latch.
13) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (14), a fire separation required by Sentence (9) shall not have any grilles, louvres or other openings.
14) Intent StatementA door or wall separating a patient’s change beginor resident’schange end sleeping room from an ensuite toilet room, shower room or similar ancillary space is permitted to incorporate grilles and louvres, provided
a) the adjacent rooms are not used to store flammable or combustible materials, and
b) the openings are located so that smoke cannot pass through these rooms to other parts of the building.
(See Appendix A.)
15) Intent Statementchange beginWalls between individual suites of care occupancy and the remainder of the floor area in buildings of care occupancy shall be constructed as fire separations with a fire-resistance rating not less than that specified for residential occupancies in Sentences 3.3.4.2.(1) and (2).
16) Intent StatementFloor assemblies within individual suites of care occupancy need not be constructed as fire separations, provided the suites meet the conditions described in Clauses 3.3.4.2.(3)(a) and (b).
17) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence 3.3.5.6.(1) is permitted to be waived if the fire separation is located between individual suites of care occupancy and an attached storage garage containing not more than 5 vehicles, provided the conditions described in Sentence 3.3.4.2.(4) are met.change end
3.3.3.6. Areas of Refuge
1) Intent StatementCompartments containing rooms such as operating rooms, recovery rooms, delivery rooms and intensive care units, from which it is impracticable to move patients in an emergency, shall be
a) separated from adjacent spaces by fire separations having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h, and
b) provided with a mechanical air supply so that during a period of 2 h after the start of a fire in another space, the compartments will not contain more than 1% by volume of contaminated air from the fire area.
3.3.3.7. Contained Use Areas
1) Intent StatementA contained use area shall conform to Sentences (2) to (5).
2) Intent StatementA contained use area shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
3) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (4), a building that includes a contained use area shall be sprinklered throughout.
4) Intent StatementA contained use area, in a building for which Articles 3.2.2.20. to 3.2.2.88. do not require the installation of an automatic sprinkler system, is not required to be sprinklered as required by Sentence (3) provided
a) the building is designed so that during a period of 2 h after the start of a fire in the contained use area other fire compartments will not contain more than 1% by volume of contaminated air from the contained use area,
b) the building is designed so that during a period of 2 h after the start of a fire in another part of the building the contained use area will not contain more than 1% by volume of contaminated air from the other part of the building,
c) all doors are designed to be remotely released in conformance with Sentence 3.3.1.13.(6), and
d) the contained use area does not contain any rooms lined with combustible padding.
5) Intent StatementA corridor serving a contained use area shall have no dead-end portion unless the area served by the dead-end portion has a second and separate means of egress.

3.3.4. Residential Occupancy

3.3.4.1. Scope
1) Intent StatementThis Subsection applies to residential occupancies.
3.3.4.2. Fire Separations
1) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (2) and 3.2.2.9.(2), suites of residential occupancy shall be separated from each other and the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
2) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence (1) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
3) Intent StatementFloor assemblies within a dwelling unit need not be constructed as fire separations provided
a) the distance between the lowest floor level and the uppermost floor level within the dwelling unit is not more than 6 m, and
b) the dwelling unit is separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than
i) 1 h if the building is not sprinklered throughout,
ii) 45 min if the building is sprinklered throughout and it is not more than 3 storeys in building height, or
iii) 1 h if the building is sprinklered throughout and it is more than 3 storeys in building height.
4) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence 3.3.5.6.(1) is permitted to be waived if the fire separation is located between a dwelling unit and an attached storage garage containing not more than 5 vehicles, provided
a) the dwelling unit and the attached storage garage are sprinklered,
b) the dwelling unit and the attached storage garage are separated from the remainder of the building in conformance with Sentences (1), (2) and (3),
c) there are no air duct systems connecting the storage garage and the dwelling unit,
d) the construction between the storage garage and the dwelling unit provides an effective barrier to gas and exhaust fumes, and
e) every door between the storage garage and the dwelling unit is
i) tight fitting and weather-stripped to provide an effective barrier against the passage of gas and exhaust fumes,
ii) fitted with a self-closing device, and
iii) not located in a room intended for sleeping.
5) Intent StatementThe fire separation required by Sentence 3.3.5.6.(1) is not required between a dwelling unit and an attached storage garage, serving that dwelling unit only, provided
a) the dwelling unit and its attached storage garage are separated from the remainder of the building in conformance with Sentences (1), (2) and (3),
b) there are no air duct systems connecting the storage garage and the dwelling unit,
c) the construction between the storage garage and the dwelling unit provides an effective barrier to gas and exhaust fumes, and
d) every door between the storage garage and the dwelling unit is
i) tight fitting and weather-stripped to provide an effective barrier against the passage of gas and exhaust fumes,
ii) fitted with a self-closing device, and
iii) not located in a room intended for sleeping.
3.3.4.3. Storage Rooms
1) Intent StatementSprinklers shall be installed in a storage room provided for the use of tenants in a residential occupancy within a floor area but not contained within a suite.
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentence (3), a storage room referred to in Sentence (1) shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 1 h.
3) Intent StatementThe fire-resistance rating of the fire separation required by Sentence (2) is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided the fire-resistance rating required by Subsection 3.2.2. is permitted to be less than 1 h for
a) the floor assembly above the floor area, or
b) the floor assembly below the floor area, if there is no floor assembly above.
4) change beginExcept for the storage of flammable liquids and combustible liquids inside a single-family dwelling unit and garages or sheds attached to these dwelling units, where storage rooms are required by Part 4 of Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code for the storage of flammable liquids or combustible liquids in residential occupancies, such rooms shall not be located above or below the first storey.change end

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3.3.4.4. Egress from Dwelling Units
1) Intent StatementSingle storey dwelling units in an apartment building need not lead to a public corridor or exterior passageway on the same storey provided the dwelling units are served by private stairways leading directly to a public access to exit on the storey
a) immediately above, and
b) immediately below.
(See Appendix A.)
2) Intent StatementExcept as permitted by Sentences (3) and (4), a dwelling unit containing more than one storey shall have an exit door or an egress door opening directly into a public access to exit from the uppermost storey and from the lowest storey of the dwelling unit so that each of these storeys is served by an exit or egress door located not more than 1.5 m above or below its floor level.
3) Intent StatementA single exit is permitted from a dwelling unit provided the exit is an exterior doorway not more than 1.5 m above adjacent ground level and
a) it is not necessary to travel up or down more than one storey to reach the exit door, or
b) the uppermost floor level opens to a balcony not more than 6 m above adjacent ground level.
4) Intent StatementAn egress door from either the uppermost storey or the lowest storey of a dwelling unit, as required by Sentence (2), need not be provided if that storey is served by a stairway that
a) leads to a public access to exit,
b) has no direct access to any other storey in the dwelling unit, and
c) is separated from the other storeys in the dwelling unit by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.
5) Intent StatementIn a building of residential occupancy not more than 3 storeys in building height, a doorway from a dwelling unit is permitted to open directly into an exit stairway provided the dwelling unit has a second and separate means of egress.
6) Intent StatementIf a dwelling unit has a second and separate means of egress, one means of egress from a dwelling unit is permitted to pass through
a) an interior corridor served by a single exit,
b) an exterior balcony served by a single exit stairway, or
c) an exterior passageway served by a single exit stairway.
3.3.4.5. Automatic Locking Prohibition
1) Intent StatementExcept for hotels and motels, a door opening onto a public corridor which provides access to exit from a suite shall be designed not to lock automatically. (See Appendix A.)
3.3.4.6. Sound Transmission
1) Intent StatementSound transmission class ratings of building assemblies shall conform to Section 5.9.
3.3.4.7. Stairs, change beginRamps, Landings,change end Handrails and Guards for Dwelling Units
1) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as required in Article 3.3.4.8., stairs, ramps, landings,change end handrails and guards within a dwelling unit shall conform to the appropriate requirements in Section 9.8. change beginand Sentences 9.8.8.1.(4) to (6)change end.
2) Intent Statementchange beginExterior stairs, ramps, landings, handrails and guards serving a single dwelling unit, and loads on guards serving not more than two dwelling units, shall conform to the appropriate requirements in Section 9.8.change end
3.3.4.8. change beginProtection of Openable Windows
1) Intent StatementExcept as provided in Sentence (2), openable windows in suites of residential occupancy shall be protected by
a) a guard with a minimum height of 1 070 mm constructed in accordance with Article 3.3.1.18., or
b) a mechanism capable of controlling the free swinging or sliding of the openable part of the window so as to limit any clear unobstructed opening to not more than 100 mm measured either vertically or horizontally where the other dimension is greater than 380 mm.
2) Intent StatementWindows need not be protected in accordance with Sentence (1) where
a) the only opening having greater dimensions than those allowed by Clause (1)(b) is located higher than 1 070 mm above the finished floor, or
b) the bottom edge of the openable portion of the window is located less than 1 800 mm above the floor or ground on the other side of the window.change end
3.3.4.9. Resistance to Forced Entry
1) Dwelling units shall conform to change beginArticle 9.7.2.1. and Subsection 9.7.5.change end

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3.3.5. Industrial Occupancy

3.3.5.1. Scope
1) Intent StatementThis Subsection applies to industrial occupancies.
3.3.5.2. Fire Extinguishing Systems
1) In addition to other requirements in this Code for the installation of automatic fire extinguishing systems, an appropriate fire extinguishing system shall be installed in every industrial occupancy floor area to provide protection if required by
a) provincial regulations or municipal bylaws, or
b) the British Columbia Fire Code, in the absence of the regulations or bylaws referred to in Clause (a).

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3.3.5.3. Basements
1) Intent StatementA basement shall not be used for the storage, manufacture or handling of volatile solids, liquids or gases that generate explosive air-vapour mixtures or for processes that involve explosive dusts.
2) Intent StatementEntrances and exits to a basement and to rooms containing building services shall be separate from the remainder of the building in a building in which
a) the storage, manufacture or handling of volatile materials can generate explosive air-vapour mixtures, or
b) processes occur that produce explosive dusts.
3) Intent StatementBasements and rooms referred to in Sentence (2) shall be separated from the remainder of the building with a vapour-tight separation.
3.3.5.4. Repair and Storage Garages
1) Intent StatementIf access is provided from a storage garage to a stair tower or elevator serving occupancies above the level of the storage garage, the access shall be through a vestibule conforming to Sentence 3.3.5.7.(4).
2) Intent StatementTreads and landings in interior stairs that extend to the roof of a storage garage shall be designed to be free of accumulations of ice and snow.
3) Intent StatementA mechanical storage garage not more than 4 storeys in building height, in which no persons other than parking attendants are permitted above the street floor level, need not have a fire separation between the exits and the remainder of the building.
4) Intent StatementA garage shall be provided with natural or mechanical ventilation in conformance with the requirements of Subsection 6.2.2. to prevent excessive accumulation of carbon monoxide, exhaust fumes or flammable and toxic vapours.
5) Intent StatementThe clear height in a storage garage shall be not less than 2 m.
6) Intent StatementA continuous curb not less than 150 mm high and a guard not less than 1 070 mm high shall be provided at every garage floor opening and around the perimeter of every floor where the exterior walls are omitted.
7) Intent StatementExcept for open-air storeys, every storey of a storage garage or repair garage located below grade shall be sprinklered.
3.3.5.5. Repair Garage Separation
1) Intent StatementA repair garage and any ancillary spaces serving it, including waiting rooms, reception rooms, tool and parts storage areas and supervisory office space, shall be separated from other occupancies by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 2 h.
3.3.5.6. Storage Garage Separation
1) Intent Statement Except as permitted by Sentences 3.3.4.2.(4) and (5), a storage garage shall be separated from other occupancies by a fire separation with a fire-resistance rating not less than 1.5 h.
3.3.5.7. Vestibules
1) Intent Statementchange beginExcept as provided in Sentence (2),change end if access is provided through a fire separation between a storage garage and a Group A, Division 1 or Group B occupancy, the access shall be through a vestibule conforming to Sentence (4).
2) Intent Statementchange beginIf access is provided through a fire separation between a storage garage and a Group B, Division 3 occupancy with not more than 10 occupants, access need not be through a vestibule, provided the fire separation complies with Clauses 3.3.4.2.(5)(b) to (d).change end
3) Intent StatementIn a building more than 3 storeys in building height, access through a fire separation between a storage garage and a Group A, Division 2, 3 or 4, or a Group C occupancy, shall be through a vestibule conforming to Sentence (4).
4) Intent StatementIf access is provided through a vestibule, as required by Sentences (1), (3) and 3.3.5.4.(1), the vestibule shall
a) be not less than 1.8 m long,
b) be ventilated
i) naturally to outside air by a vent that has an unobstructed area of not less than 0.1 m2 for each door that opens into the vestibule but not less than 0.4 m2, or
ii) mechanically at a rate of 14 m3/h for each square metre of vestibule floor surface area, and
c) have openings between the vestibule and an adjoining occupancy provided with self-closing doors with no hold-open devices.
3.3.5.8. Dispensing of Fuel
1) Intent StatementFacilities for the dispensing of fuel having a flash point below 37.8°C shall not be installed above any space intended for occupancy.
2) Intent StatementFacilities for the dispensing of fuel having a flash point below 37.8°C shall not be installed in any building, except that this requirement does not apply to a canopy which is open on not less than 75% of its perimeter.
3.3.5.9. Multiple Tenant Self Storage Warehouses
1) Intent StatementUnless the building is sprinklered throughout, each individual tenancy in a multiple tenant self storage warehouse classified as an industrial occupancy shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating not less than 45 min.

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3.3.6.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to design and fire protection requirements for buildings or parts thereof used for the storage, handling, use and processing of dangerous goods, including flammable liquids and combustible liquids, in quantities in excess of those identified in Table 3.2.7.1. of Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code. (See Appendix A.)

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3.3.6.2. Storage of Dangerous Goods
1) Intent StatementSolid and liquid Class 5 oxidizing substances shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 h.
2) Intent StatementReactive substances shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 h. (See Appendix A.)
3) Intent StatementThe design of buildings or parts thereof used for the storage of Class 1 dangerous goods shall conform to the “Explosives Act” and its Regulations, published by Natural Resources Canada.
4) Where wiring or electrical equipment is located in areas in which flammable gases or vapours, combustible dusts or combustible fibres are present in quantities sufficient to create a hazard, such wiring and electrical equipment shall conform to the Electrical Safety Regulation.

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3.3.6.3. Indoor Storage of Compressed Gases
1) Where required by the British Columbia Fire Code, cylinders of Class 2.1 flammable gases stored indoors shall be located in a room
a) that is separated from the remainder of the building by a gas-tight fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of at least 2 h,
b) that is located on an exterior wall of the building,
c) that can be entered from the exterior, and
d) whose closures leading to the interior of the building are
i) equipped with self-closing devices that keep the closures closed when not in use, and
ii) constructed so as to prevent the migration of gases from the room into other parts of the building.

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2) Where required by the British Columbia Fire Code, cylinders of Class 2.3 toxic or corrosive gases or Class 2.2 (5.1) oxidizing gases stored indoors shall be located in a room
a) that is separated from the remainder of the building by a gas-tight fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of at least 1 h,
b) that is located on an exterior wall of the building,
c) that can be entered from the exterior, and
d) whose closures leading to the interior of the building are
i) equipped with self-closing devices that keep the closures closed when not in use, and
ii) constructed so as to prevent the migration of gases from the room into other parts of the building.

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3.3.6.4. Storage and Dispensing Rooms for Flammable Liquids and Combustible Liquids
1) Fire separations for rooms where flammable liquids and combustible liquids are stored are required to be constructed with a fire-resistance rating in conformance with Subsection 4.2.9. of Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code.

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2) Where Class IA or IB liquids specified in Subsection 4.1.2. of Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code are dispensed within a storage room, the room shall be designed to prevent critical structural and mechanical damage from an internal explosion in conformance with good engineering practice such as that described in NFPA 68, “Explosion Protection by Deflagration Venting.” (See Appendix A.)

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3.3.6.5. Tire Storage
1) Intent StatementA tire storage area designed to contain more than 375 m3 of rubber tires shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 h. (See Appendix A.)
3.3.6.6. Ammonium Nitrate Storage
1) Where Article 3.2.9.1. of Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code applies due to the quantity and nature of the stored product, and as stipulated in Sentences (2) to (6), buildings used for the storage of ammonium nitrate shall be classified as medium-hazard industrial occupancies (Group F, Division 2).

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2) Intent StatementBuildings intended for the storage of ammonium nitrate shall be not more than one storey in building height.
3) Intent StatementBuildings intended for the storage of ammonium nitrate shall not
a) have basements or crawl spaces, or
b) contain open floor drains, tunnels, elevator pits or other pockets that might trap molten ammonium nitrate.
4) Intent StatementBuildings intended for the storage of ammonium nitrate shall have not less than 0.007 m2 of vent area for each square metre of storage area, unless mechanical ventilation is provided.
5) Intent StatementAll flooring in storage areas described in Sentence (1) shall be constructed of noncombustible materials.
6) Intent StatementBuildings intended for the storage of ammonium nitrate shall be designed to prevent the ammonium nitrate from coming into contact with building materials that
a) will cause the ammonium nitrate to become unstable,
b) may corrode or deteriorate by reason of contact with the ammonium nitrate, or
c) will become impregnated with the ammonium nitrate.
(See Appendix A.)
3.3.6.7. Flooring Materials
1) Intent StatementFloors in areas where dangerous goods are stored shall be constructed of impermeable materials to prevent the absorption of chemicals.
3.3.6.8. Fire Separations in Process Plants
1) Intent StatementIn process plants, areas where unstable liquids are handled or where small-scale unit chemical processes occur shall be separated from the remainder of the building by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 2 h.
3.3.6.9. Basements and Pits
1) Intent StatementProcess plants where Class I and II flammable liquids and combustible liquids are handled shall not be constructed with basements or covered pits.change end