Currently, various wordings and phrases are used in the National Building Code of Canada (NBC) 2020 to describe whether or not sprinklers are mandated in the space or area in question. Inconsistent use of terminology could create confusion or misunderstanding.

This proposed change standardizes Code wording to clarify where sprinklers are mandated by the NBC by using the defined term “sprinklered” and thereby eliminates any potential confusion.

As defined in the NBC, “sprinklered (as applying to a building or part thereof) means that the building or part thereof is equipped with a system of automatic sprinklers.”

In the NBC 2020 and National Fire Code of Canada (NFC) 2020, 11 different phrases are used to indicate where sprinklers are mandated, while 8 different phrases are used to indicate where sprinklers are not mandated. In all cases, the defined term “sprinklered” could be used. Not standardizing this terminology could potentially cause confusion among architects and designers as to where sprinklers are mandated. Revising the Code wording to use the defined term “sprinklered” would introduce consistency as well as eliminate any potential confusion.

Table 1 shows the different phrases used in the NBC and NFC to indicate where sprinklers are mandated, along with their frequency.

Table 2 shows the different phrases used in the NBC and NFC to indicate where sprinklers are not mandated, along with their frequency.

This proposed change clarifies Code language by using the defined term for consistency. This proposed change would facilitate interpretation of the Code requirements and eliminate potential confusion. As a result, it is expected that a consistent and appropriate level of safety would be provided without any confusion. No additional costs are expected.

This proposed change is intended to clarify the intent of the requirements, which should aid in the understanding and enforcement of the Code.

Authorities having jurisdiction, designers and contractors.