Proposed Change 1920

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1920
Page: Last modified: 2024-01-27
Code Reference(s):
NBC20 Div.B 9.10.18.2. (first printing)
Subject:
Automatic Sprinkler System
Title:
Standardization of Terminology in NBC Sprinkler Requirements
Description:
This proposed change is one of a series of proposed changes that standardize the terminology related to sprinklers in the NBC.
Related Proposed Change(s):
PCF 1910, PCF 1912, PCF 1915, PCF 1916, PCF 1917, PCF 1921, PCF 1922, PCF 1924, PCF 1925, PCF 1926, PCF 1927, PCF 1928, PCF 1929, PCF 1930, PCF 1931, PCF 1932, PCF 1933, PCF 1934
This change could potentially affect the following topic areas:

Problem

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.

Justification

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 1. Existing Phrases Indicating Where Sprinklers Are Mandated in the NBC and NFC
Phrase Code Number of Occurrences
“… to have an automatic sprinkler system installed throughout …” NBC 1
“… an automatic sprinkler system shall be installed in …” NBC 1
“… sprinklers shall be installed in …” NBC 2
“… sprinklers shall be provided for …”  NBC 1
“… sprinklers shall not be omitted in …” NBC 1
“… in which an automatic sprinkler system is installed …” NBC 1
“… in which a sprinkler system is installed …”  NBC 2
“… in which a sprinkler system has been installed …” NBC 1
“… area served by the sprinkler system …” NBC 1
“… sprinklers are installed in …” NBC 1
“… shall be equipped throughout with a sprinkler system …” NFC 1

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

Table 2. Existing Phrases Indicating Where Sprinklers Are Not Mandated in the NBC and NFC
Phrase Code Number of Occurrences
“… do not require the installation of an automatic sprinkler system …”  NBC 1
“… in which an automatic sprinkler system is not required to be installed …” NBC 1
“… sprinklers are not required in …” NBC 1
“… that is not protected by an automatic sprinkler system …” NBC 1
“… in which sprinklers are not installed …” NBC 2
“… where a sprinkler system is not installed …” NBC 1
“… in which an automatic sprinkler system is not installed …” NBC 2
“… need not be equipped throughout with a sprinkler system …”  NFC 2

PROPOSED CHANGE

[9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2.Fire Alarm System Required

[1] 1)Except as permitted in Sentences (3) and (4), a fire alarm system shall be installed in buildings in which a sprinkler system is installedthat are sprinklered.
[2] 2)Except as provided in Sentence (5), a fire alarm system shall be installed
[a] a)in every building that contains more than 3 storeys, including storeys below the first storey,
[b] b)where the total occupant load exceeds 300, or
[c] c)when the occupant load for any major occupancy in Table 9.10.18.2. is exceeded.
Table [9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2.
Maximum Occupant Load for Buildings without Fire Alarm Systems
Forming Part of Sentence [9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2.([2] 2)
Major Occupancy Classification Occupant Load Above which a Fire Alarm System is Required
Residential 10 (sleeping accommodation)
Business and personal services, Mercantile 150 above or below the first storey
Low- or medium-hazard industrial 75 above or below the first storey
[3] 3)In buildings in which a sprinkler system has been installedthat are sprinklered in accordance with NFPA 13D, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes", a fire alarm system need not be installed.
[4] 4)In buildings that contain fewer than 9 sprinklers conforming to Sentence 3.2.5.12.(4), a fire alarm system need not be installed.
[5] 5)A fire alarm system is not required in a residential occupancy where an exit or public corridor serves not more than 4 suites or where each suite has direct access to an exterior exit facility leading to ground level.

Impact analysis

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.

Enforcement implications

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

Who is affected

Authorities having jurisdiction, designers and contractors.

OBJECTIVE-BASED ANALYSIS OF NEW OR CHANGED PROVISIONS

[9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2. ([1] 1) [F11-OS1.5][F13-OS1.2,OS1.5][F03-OS1.2]
[9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2. ([1] 1) [F13-OP1.2]
[9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2. ([2] 2) [F11-OS1.5]
[9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2. ([3] 3) no attributions
[9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2. ([4] 4) no attributions
[9.10.18.2.] 9.10.18.2. ([5] 5) no attributions
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