Summary of Significant Proposed Changes (NBC)

NBC Part 9, Housing and Small Buildings

Definition of "Range"

The current definition of "range" only covers appliances incorporating one or more ovens. The term is used in the Code to refer to cook-tops with burners or elements, to ovens, or to appliances with both cook-tops and ovens. Where Code requirements apply to ovens, the term "oven" serves the purpose. Where Code requirements apply more generically to appliances that burn fuel or use electricity for heating or cooking, the defined term "stove" is used. Where requirements apply to appliances that have cook-tops and may or may not include ovens, the defined term "range" is still used but the usage is inconsistent with the definition. The proposed change to the definition in Division A, Article 1.4.1.2., and corresponding proposed changes to provisions that use "range" to refer to ovens, resolves the inconsistent use of the terminology and clarifies the proper application of the requirements.

Fire Alarm Systems and Smoke Alarms

Several proposed changes deal with the harmonization of the technical differences between Part 3 and Part 9 of the NBC on the subjects of fire alarm systems and smoke alarms. In addition, a number of proposed changes introduce the following improvements: clarification as to when a fire alarm system is required to be installed, more specifically when a sprinkler system is provided in a building; clarification as to which specific Part 3 provisions dealing with fire alarms apply to Part 9 buildings; the placement of smoke alarms within residential buildings based on the concept of storey rather than floor level; a requirement on an alternative power source (i.e. battery) for all smoke alarms located within residential occupancies; requirements for smoke alarm installations to meet ULC standards; and harmonization with referenced standards on the placement of smoke alarms.

Fire Stopping and Fire Blocking

Several proposed changes to both Parts 3 and 9 address the issue of penetrations through fire separations. New definitions have been proposed for both "fire stops" and "fire blocks". Clarifications as well as new requirements have been introduced to specify when and how the integrity of a fire separation must be maintained where a rated assembly is penetrated. The term "cast-in-place" has been introduced into Part 9. Fire stops must conform to ULC listed systems or other systems deemed to meet the performance criteria. In addition, several relaxations on current requirements have been introduced, such as: the allowance for larger diameter combustible piping to penetrate a rated assembly; a relaxation on the requirement for fire stopping around fire dampers and sprinkler heads; a relaxation on the requirements related to the penetration of noncombustible electrical outlet boxes. The requirement for fire blocks in attic spaces that are unsprinklered has been clarified.

Garage Floors

The Code currently requires that garage floors be sloped to the exterior to limit the probability of heavier-than-air gases flowing into habitable space that is below the garage floor level. This provision is problematic for several reasons: it does not recognize the acceptable solution described in the Canadian Electrical Code for controlling the ingress of heavier-than-air gases; sloping the floor to the exterior can lead to problems due to back-up and freezing of meltwater from vehicles in the winter; and the provision is in conflict with the Quebec Plumbing Code, which requires the installation of a sump. The proposed change resolves these problems and inconsistencies.