Alberta Building Code 2014
H I G H L I G H T S O F T H E A L B E R TA
BUILDING CODE 2014
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE ALBERTA BUILDING CODE 2014
INTRODUCTION
Order of presentations
Geoff Brownlie, Senior Building Inspector (Safety Codes Application)
•
Introduction and code background (Harmonization)
Stephanie Martin, SCO – Building (Safety Codes Application)
•
Six Storey Combustible Buildings
Joe Healy, SCO – Building (Safety Codes Application)
•
Radon Gas/Smoke Alarms/Exit signs
John Wilson, SCO - Building (Safety Codes Application)
•
Strata Space, NFPA 1142 and Hazardous Materials
Nabil Habashy, SCO – Building (Safety Codes Application)
•
B occupancies – Detention, Care and Treatment
Kevan Jess, Flood Recover Manager(Safety Codes Application)
•
B occupancies – Detention, Care and Treatment Update on upcoming Guidelines (No Slides)
Linnie Tse, Barrier Free Administrator
•
New Barrier-free design requirements
HISTORY OF BUILDING CODE IN ALBERTA
PAST, PRESENT, FUTURE…
Evolution of the code development system
Past - First edition of the NBC in 1941 , revised in 1953 and has subsequently
published new versions about every five years. The current NBC 2010 is the 13th
edition.
- First edition of the ABC in 1974 revised in 1977 and has subsequently published
new versions about every five years. The current ABC 2014 is the 9th edition.
- First edition of the National Fire Code Fire Code in 1963
- The Associate Committees on the National Building and Fire Code, were replace
in 1991 replaced by the Canadian Commission on Building and Fire Codes
(CCBFC)
HISTORY OF BUILDING CODE IN ALBERTA
The Present –​ Changes to the Safety Codes Act
The legislation brings about a n umber of key changes including::
**Timely adoption of codes and standards,
Administration of the Safety Codes Act,
Administrative penalties, and
Municipal bylaw making authority
**The Alberta Permit regulation amended March 31, 2015 and brought the
2014 ABC into force for May 1st 2015.
2014 ALBERTA BUILDING CODE
NATIONAL CODE CHANGE PROCESS
HISTORY OF BUILDING CODE IN ALBERTA
The Present –​ Transition Periods are our friends…
GETTING UP TO SPEED ON THE NEW
CHANGES…
HISTORY OF BUILDING CODE IN ALBERTA
The Future……………………………………………………………………Target -------------------
•
2015 National Building Code adoption in 2017/2018 2 years after National
release with a Separate Alberta Supplement
•
2020 National Building Code adoption in 2021 one year after National release
with a Separate Alberta Supplement
CHANGE INDICATION
Where a technical change or addition has been made relative to the 2005 edition of
the National Building Code, a thin vertical line has been added in the margin next to
the affected provision.
Example:
DARK LINE INDICATORS IN THE ABC 2014
A heavy vertical line in the margin indicates an addition or amendment to
The National Building Code 2010 at the time it was adopted in Alberta as
the Alberta Building Code 2014.
Actually it is
The thick dark line indicates an Alberta-specific difference/discrepancy
from the NBC 2010 at the time NBC 2010 was adopted in Alberta.
Example:
SIX STOREY COMBUSTIBLE BUILDINGS
The 2014 Alberta Building Code has introduced new building
classifications which permit the use of combustible construction in
buildings up to 6 storeys, for both a Group C and a Group D occupancy.
Article 3.2.2.50, Group C, up to
6 Storeys, Sprinklered, and
Article 3.2.2.58, Group D, up to
6 Storeys, Sprinklered
SIX STOREY COMBUSTIBLE BUILDINGS
Article 3.2.2.50, Group C, Up to 6 Storeys, Sprinklered
 Not more than 6 storeys,
 Height not more than 18 m measured between the floor of the first storey and the uppermost
floor level that does not serve a rooftop enclosure for elevator machinery, a stairway or a service
room used only for service to the building,
 Building area not more than:
 a) 9000 m if 1 storey in building height,
 b) 4500 m if 2 storeys in building height,
 c) 3000 m if 3 storeys in building height,
 d) 2250 m if 4 storeys in building height,
 e) 1800 m if 5 storeys in building height, or
 f) 1500 m if 6 storeys in building height.
 Floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a 1 hour FRR
 Exception floor assemblies within a dwelling unit 1 hr FRR, not a F/S
 Roof assemblies shall have a FRR of one hour
 Mezzanines shall have a one hour fire resistance rating
 Load bearing walls, columns and arches FRR not less than the supported assembly.
SIX STOREY COMBUSTIBLE BUILDINGS
Article 3.2.2.58, Group D, Up to 6 Storeys, Sprinklered
 Not more than 6 storeys,
 Height not more than 18 m measured between the floor of the first storey and the uppermost
floor level that does not serve a rooftop enclosure for elevator machinery, a stairway or a service
room used only for service to the building,
 Building area not more than:
 a) 18,000 m if 1 storey in building height,
 b) 9000 m if 2 storeys in building height,
 c) 6000 m if 3 storeys in building height,
 d) 4500 m if 4 storeys in building height,
 e) 3600 m if 5 storeys in building height, or
 f) 3000 m if 6 storeys in building height.
 Floor assemblies shall be fire separations with a 1 hour FRR
 Exception floor assemblies within a dwelling unit 1 hr FRR, not a F/S
 Roof assemblies shall have a FRR of one hour
 Mezzanines shall have a one hour fire resistance rating
 Load bearing walls, columns and arches FRR not less than the supported assembly.
ABC BUILDING AREA RESTRICTIONS
MAXIMUM HEIGHT
RESTRICTIONS
HEIGHT RESTRICTIONS
Articles 3.2.2.50 and 3.2.2.58
Buildings constructed in conformance with
these articles conform to:
Height not more than 18 m measured
between the floor of the first storey and the
uppermost floor level, and
 Roof assemblies shall have a 1 hour fire
resistance rating
Exceptions:
 Roofs greater than 25m from the first storey
floor to the highest point – roof assembly
shall be constructed of non-combustible
construction or fire retardant treated wood.
 Non-contiguous roofs: roof allowed to be
evaluated separately
ROOF COVERINGS
Article 3.1.15.2 Roof Coverings
3) Except as permitted by Sentence (4), roof coverings on buildings
conforming to Article 3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.58. shall have a Class A
classification where the roof height is greater than 25 m measured from
the floor of the first storey to the highest point of the roof.
4) Where buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.58. include
non-contiguous roof assemblies at different elevations, the roof
assemblies referred to in Sentence (3) are permitted to be evaluated
separately to determine the roof covering classification required.
1) A roof covering classification shall be determined in conformance with
CAN/ULC-S107, “Fire Tests of Roof Coverings.”
EXCEPTIONS TO LOAD BEARING WALLS
Load bearing walls, columns and arches require a FRR not less than
the supported assembly.
Exception:
 Article 3.1.7.5. Where the roof assembly is required to be of non-combustible
construction under 3.2.2.50 (2)(c) or 3.2.2.58.(2)(c), the roof is not required to be
supported by non-combustible construction.
PROHIBITED OCCUPANCIES
Article 3.1.3.2. Prohibition of Occupancy Combinations
3) A building conforming to Article 3.2.2.50. shall not
contain
 A Group A, Division 1 or 3, Group B, or Group F, Division
2 or 3 major occupancy, or
 A Group A, Division 2 or Group E major occupancy above
the second storey.
Article 3.2.2.7. Superimposed Major Occupancies
(3) A building that is wholly constructed in accordance
with the building area and construction requirements of
Article 3.2.2.50. is permitted to contain:
 Group A, Division 2, and Group E major occupancies
below the third storey, and
▪ A storage garage below the fourth storey.
PROHIBITED OCCUPANCIES
Article 3.1.3.2. Prohibition of Occupancy Combinations
5) A building conforming to Article 3.2.2.58. shall not
contain
 A Group A, Division 1 or 3, Group B, or Group F,
Division 1 major occupancy, or
 A Group A, Division 2, Group E, or Group F, Division 2
or 3 major occupancy above the second storey.
Article 3.2.2.7. Superimposed Major Occupancies
(4) A building that is wholly constructed in accordance
with the building area and construction requirements of
Article 3.2.2.58. is permitted to contain:
 Group A, Division 2, Group E, and Group F, Division 2
or 3 major occupancies
below the third storey, and
 a storage garage below the fourth storey.
SEPARATION OF MAJOR OCCUPANCIES
Table 3.1.3.1. Major Occupancy Fire
Separations
Notes to Table 3.1.3.1.:
(3) Where the building is constructed in
accordance with Article 3.2.2.50., a fire
separation with a 2 h fire-resistance rating
is required between the
 Group C and Group A, Division 2 major
occupancies.
(4) Where the building is constructed in
accordance with Article 3.2.2.58., a fire
separation with a 2 h fire-resistance rating
is required between the
 Group D and Group A, Division 2 major
occupancies.
SPRINKLERING TO NFPA 13
NFPA 13R Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler
Systems in Residential Occupancies Up to and Including
Four Stories in Height 2010 Edition
NFPA 13 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler
Systems 2013 Edition
3.2.5.12. Automatic Sprinkler Systems
7) Notwithstanding the requirements of the standards
referenced in Sentences (1) and (2) regarding the
installation of automatic sprinkler systems, in buildings
conforming to Article 3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.58., sprinklers
shall be provided for balconies and decks exceeding
610 mm in depth measured perpendicular to the
exterior wall.
EXTERIOR CLADDING
Article 3.1.4.8. Exterior Cladding
 Not less than 90% of the exterior cladding on each exterior wall of buildings conforming to
Article 3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.58. shall consist of
 Non-combustible cladding, or
 A wall assembly that satisfies the criteria of Sentences 3.1.5.5.(3) and (4) when tested in
accordance with CAN/ULC-S134, “Fire Test of Exterior Wall Assemblies.”
Table 3.2.3.7.
Minimum Construction Requirements for Exposing Building Faces
Notes to Table 3.2.3.7.:
(1) The cladding on Group C buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.50. and on Group D
buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.58. shall be noncombustible.
STREET ACCESS
Article 3.2.2.10. Streets
(3) A building conforming to Article 3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.58. is considered to face 1
street where not less than 25% of the building perimeter is located within 15 m of a
street.
EMERGENCY POWER
Emergency Power
3.2.7.4. Emergency Power for Lighting
1) An emergency power supply shall be
a) provided to maintain the emergency lighting required by this
Subsection from a power source such as batteries or generators
that will continue to supply power in the event that the regular
power supply to the building is interrupted, and
b) so designed and installed that upon failure of the regular
power it will assume the electrical load automatically for a
period of
iii) 1 h for a building constructed in accordance with Article
3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.58., and
CONCEALED SPACES
3.1.11.5. Fire Blocks in Horizontal Concealed Spaces
3) Except as provided in Sentence (4), in buildings conforming to Article 3.2.2.50. or 3.2.2.58., horizontal
concealed spaces within a floor assembly or roof assembly of combustible construction shall be
separated by construction conforming to Article 3.1.11.7. into compartments that are not more than
a) 600 m2 in area, with no dimension more than 60 m, if the exposed construction materials within the
space have a flame-spread rating not more than 25, and
b) 300 m2 in area, with no dimension more than 20 m, if the exposed construction materials within the
space have a flame-spread rating more than 25. (See Appendix A.)
4) Fire blocks conforming to Sentence (3) are not required where the horizontal concealed space within
the floor or roof assembly is entirely filled with noncombustible insulation such that any air gap between
the top of the insulation and the floor or roof deck does not exceed 50 mm.
3.1.11.7. Fire Block Materials
1) Except as permitted by Sentences (2) to (4) and (7), materials used to separate
concealed spaces into compartments shall remain in place and prevent the passage
of flames for not less than 15 min when subjected to the standard fire exposure in
CAN/ULC-S101, “Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials.”
PART 4 DESIGN SYSTEM RESTRICTIONS
There are additional design constraints that will be required to be reviewed by the
professional designer such as:
4.1.8.10. Additional System Restrictions
4.1.8.11. Equivalent Static Force Procedure for Structures Satisfying the Conditions of
Article 4.1.8.7.
4.1.8.12. Dynamic Analysis Procedure
5.6.2.1. Sealing and Drainage (See Appendix A.)
FIRE PROTECTION DURING CONSTRUCTION
2014 Alberta Fire Code
5.6.3. Additional Requirements for Residential and Business and Personal Services
Occupancies, conforming to 3.2.2.50. and 3.2.2.58. of the ABC.
5.6.3.2. Smoking Restrictions (designated areas with clearances to storage and the
building)
5.6.3.3. Site Security (locked fencing and barricades)
5.6.3.4. Site Identification (interior and exterior, and addressing)
5.6.3.5. Construction Access (one stairway with handrail, and proper widths and guards)
5.6.3.6. Disposal of Combustible Refuse (non-combustible and clearances to exits)
5.6.3.7. Water Supply (adequate water once combustible materials are delivered)
5.6.3.8. Hydrant Access (marked, accessible and unobstructed)
Smoke Alarms
9.10.19. Smoke Alarms 3.2.4.21.
*Smoke Alarm shall be installed in each bedroom.
*Location between sleeping rooms and reminder of the
storey. e.g.”Hallway”
*No 5 meters maximum
*Referencing CAN/ULC-S553-02 and CAN/ULC-S531-02
*In addition to permanent connection with power supply,
battery Backup is required for 7 days normal operation
followed By 4 minutes of alarm.
*Hush button is required.
Smoke Alarms (3.2.4.21.) (9.10.19)
*Smoke Alarm Signal: 3-pulse phase followed by an off phase
*If single stroke bells are used: the bell struck three
times at a rate of one stroke per second followed by an
interval of 2 s of silence.
Combined temporal pattern
and voice relay is permitted
Exit Signs (3.4.5.1)
• Language independent.
• Internationally recognized.
• Continuously illuminated.
• Two Standards referenced ; ULC-S572 (not electrically powered)
and CSA C22.2 No.141 (electrically powered)
Green Pictograms conforming to ISO standards.
Soil Gases
Radon is a colourless, odourless, radioactive gas that occurs
naturally as a result of the decay of radium known to enter dwelling
units and buildings by infiltration into basements and crawl spaces.
• Health Canada estimates 1900 lung cancer death per
year are related to radon.
• We spend more time indoors, including basements.
• Tighter buildings
• Some geographical areas are known for high risk of
radon in the ground.
• Heath Canada reduced the Canadian action level from
800 Bq/m3 to 200 Bq/m3 (international standard)
Radon
Radon
How Radon can enter homes?
Code References:
Part 3 Buildings
Section 5.4 Air Leakage
5.4.1.1. Required Resistance to Air Leakage
e) minimize the ingress of airborne radon from the ground..etc
Section 6.2 Design and Installation
6.2.1.1. Good Engineering Practice
i) EPA 625/R-92/016, “Radon Prevention in the Design and Construction of Schools
and Other Large Buildings.”
Part 9 Buildings
Subsection 9.13.4 Soil Gas Control
9.13.4.2(2)(3) --Soil Gas Ingress-9.13.4.3(2)(c)iii & 9.13.4.3(3)(b)iii –Subfloor Depressurization system-9.32.3.8(8) -- protection against depressurization--
Radon
Radon
9.13.4.3. Providing for the Rough-in for a Subfloor
Depressurization System
a) a gas-permeable layer, an inlet and an outlet as described
in Sentence (2), or
b) clean granular material and a pipe as described in
Sentence (3).
Sentence (2) describes the criteria for subfloor depressurization
systems using performance-oriented language,
while Sentence (3) describes one particular acceptable solution
using more prescriptive language.
Radon
9.13.4.3. Providing for the
Rough-in for a Subfloor
Depressurization System
b) clean granular material
and a pipe as described in
Sentence (3).
Radon
The principal method of resisting the ingress of all soil gases, a resistance
which is required for all buildings, is to seal the interface between the soil
and the occupied space, so far as is reasonably practicable. Sections 9.18.
and 9.25. contain requirements for air and soil gas barriers in assemblies
in contact with ground, including those in crawl spaces. Providing control
joints to reduce cracking of foundation walls and airtight covers for sump
pits (see Section 9.14.) are other measures that can help achieve this
objective.
Examples of installed Radon ventilation Systems
CMHC Guide
http://www.cmhc-schl.gc.ca/odpub/pdf/61945.pdf
Health Canada – Environmental and Workplace Health
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/ewh-semt/radiation/radon/index-eng.php
Responsibility for testing for Radon rests with the Owner.
Regional and Federal Contacts:
Alberta 780-495-2626 or
Radon_ABNT@hc-sc.gc.ab
STRATA SPACE – LANDS TITLE ACT
Strata space means volumetric space whether it is :
a) Located below or above or below and above the surface of the land, or
b) Occupied in whole or in part by any structure
Boundaries
a) May consist of vertical, horizontal, inclined planes or curved surfaces satisfactory
to the Registrar.
b) Shall conform to or lie within the boundaries of a single parcel
STRATA SPACE –ABC’14
Article 1.3.3.5 [A] “Buildings Divided into Strata Space”
•
Building shall be considered as a single building not requiring internal firewalls or party
walls along the strata space property lines,
•
Limiting distances shall be measured only to the outside property lines of the land
shown as a single parcel.
•
The strata spaces are defined by property lines and may be in single or multiple
buildings sharing some or all of the following types of systems and services,
Appendix A [B] – ABC’14
•
Separations required by Subsections 3.1.3 and 3.2.2 divide the strata spaces
•
Exit routes are not required to lead directly to the outside from each strata space
•
Structural systems, life safety systems and building services not required to be
separated.
STRATA SPACE – CONT’D
STRATA SPACE – ABC’14
TYPICAL SHARED SYSTEMS AND SERVICES
structural systems
• building envelope
• exits
• firefighting access
• firewalls and fire separations
• fire alarm, communication and control facilities
• sprinkler and standpipe systems
• emergency power generation and distribution systems
• emergency lighting systems
• electrical supply and distribution systems
• plumbing and water supply systems
• elevators
• smoke control and pressurization systems
• heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems
• building control and security systems, and
• any other systems not specified above
WATER SUPPLY – NFPA 1142
Clause (b) new to the ABC’14
What does “Capable of being delivered at a rate” mean: different interpretations
Is a fire pump required or is the responding fire department part of the solution
Indirectly defined in NFPA 1142
NFPA 1142  Generally accepted design practice are employed during the following
 Dry Hydrant Location
 Permit Process
 Design Criteria
 Construction

Discussion:
 Planning & Permits
 Dry Hydrant Design
 Dry Hydrant Location
 Depth of Water Source
 Inspection and Maintenance
NFPA 1142 - DISCUSSION
•
Planning & Permits
• Planning, permitting and design process shall be completed before the actual
construction starts.
• Planning shall be coordinated among public and private entities that could be
impacted by the installation of a dry hydrant.
NFPA 1142 – DRY HYDRANT DESIGN AND LOCATION
AHJ to approve all aspects of dry hydrant design and construction
•
Schedule 40 piping and component fittings
•
Design minimum flow of 1000gpm (3800 l/min) at draft
•
Must be available year round
•
Design of system must not impede drafting capabilities.
•
Designed to prevent deterioration
•
Minimum bends or elbows
•
Compatible with Fire Department Hard Suction Hose Size
•
Conforms to NFPA 1963 “Standard for Fire Hose Connections”
•
Piping system support and stabilization - approved engineering design practices
•
Stabilization or equivalent protection shall be employed at elbows/stress points
TYPICAL DRY HYDRANT INSTALLATION
Excerpt from NFPA 1142
Standard on Water Supplies for
Suburban and Rural Fire Fighting
COLD CLIMATE DESIGN
DESIGN OF HAZARDOUS AREAS
DESIGN OF HAZARDOUS AREAS – CONT’D
Care Occupancies
Over View:
Definition of Treatment occupancy
Definition of Care / Care Occupancy
Services provided in a care occupancy
Construction Requirements
Custodial and Convalescent Homes
Questions.
Care Occupancy
Care Occupancy
Treatment Occupancy-B2
“Treatments” may include such things as surgery, intensive care, and
emergency medical intervention. Treatment services differ from the
services provided by care occupancies like personal care assistance
B3 or the administration of medication B3, and from those provided
by business and personal services “D ”occupancies like dentistry or
day procedures.
Care Occupancy
Treatment means the provision of
medical or other health-related
intervention to persons, where the
administration or lack of administration
of these interventions may render them
incapable of evacuating to a safe
location without the assistance of
another person.
Care Occupancy
Care means the provision of services other than
treatment by or through care facility
management to residents who require these
services because of cognitive, physical or
behavioural limitations.
Care Occupancy
Care Occupancy
Through care facility management refer
to services provided by the
organization that is responsible for the
care for a period exceeding 24
consecutive hours.
They do not refer to services provided
by residents of dwelling units or suites,
outside agencies.
Care Occupancy
Services may include
A daily assessment of the resident’s functioning,
Awareness of their whereabouts,
The making of appointments for residents,
Reminding them of those appointments,
The ability and readiness to intervene if a crisis arises for a resident,
Supervision in areas of nutrition or medication,
Provision of transient medical services.,
Activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, feeding,
Assistance in the use of washroom facilities, etc.
No actual treatment is provided by or through care facility management.
Care Occupancy
Group B, Division 3
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Assisted/supportive living facilities
Care facilities without treatment
Children’s custodial homes
Convalescent/recovery/rehabilitation centres
without treatment
Group homes
Hospices without treatment
Nursing homes without treatment
Reformatories without detention quarters
Respite centres without treatment
Care Occupancy
3.2.2 Construction
Care Occupancy
6 Storeys 3.2.2.50)
Care Occupancy
1.3.3.2. Application of Parts 3, 4, 5 and 6
1) Parts 3, 4, 5, and 6 of Division B apply to all buildings
described in Article 1.1.1.1. and b) used for major
occupancies classified as
ii) Group B, care, treatment or detention occupancies,
3
Care Occupancy
2.4.2. Professional Involvement
2.4.2.1. General
3) Except as required in Sentence (9), registered architectural
professional and registered engineering professional seals and
stamps are not required on plans or specifications for a building
a) 3 storeys or less in building height, for an assembly, care,
treatment or detention occupancy that,
i) if 1 storey in building height, has a building area of 300 m2 or less,
ii) if 2 storeys in building height, has a building area of 150 m2 or less,
or
iii) if 3 storeys in building height, has a building area of 100 m2 or less,
Care Occupancy
3.3.3.2. Separations between Care, Treatment or
Detention Occupancies and Repair Garages
1) The fire separation required by Sentence 3.3.5.5.(1) between a
care, treatment or detention occupancy and a repair garage
shall have no openings.
3.3.3.8. Windows (carried over from ABC2006)
1) Except in a sleeping room where a person is under legal
restraint, a sleeping room in a care, treatment or detention
occupancy shall be provided with a window whose
unobstructed glass area is not less than 5% of the area served.
Care Occupancy
3.2.6. Additional Requirements for High Buildings
3.2.6.1. Application
1) This Subsection applies to a building ,
b) containing a Group B major occupancy in which the floor level
of the highest storey of that major occupancy is more than 18 m
above grade,
c) containing a floor area or part of a floor area located above
the third storey designed or intended as a Group B, Division 2 or 3
occupancy,
Schedule B-2 summary of Design and Field review
Smoke control systems in high-rise and care, treatment or
detention occupancy application
Care Occupancy
Combustible Elements
3.1.5.13. Combustible Elements in Partitions (in non-combustible
construction)
Solid Lumber and wood framing partition are not permitted in Care
occupancy in a building of non-combustible construction.
Smoke Detectors
3.2.4.12. Smoke Detectors
2) Smoke detectors need not be installed in sleeping rooms and in
corridors serving the sleeping rooms within a suite of care
occupancy where smoke alarms are installed in accordance with
Article 3.2.4.21.
Care Occupancy
3.3.3.5(15) Fire Separation
3.3.3.5. Compartments and Fire Separations
15) Walls 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).
3.3.4.2. Fire Separations
1) …suites of residential occupancy …….by a fire separation having a fireresistance rating not less than 1 h.
2) …. Is permitted to be less than 1 h but not less than 45 min provided ….
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.
Care Occupancy
3.3.3.3 Corridors
3) Corridors shall be not less than
a) 2 400 mm wide in buildings of treatment occupancy where the corridors may
be used to move patients or residents in beds,
b) 1 650 mm wide
i) in buildings of care or treatment occupancy where the corridors
will not be used to move patients or residents in beds, and
ii) in buildings of care occupancy with more than 10 residents and where
the corridors serve the residents, or
c) 1 100 mm wide in buildings of care occupancy with not more than 10 residents.
Summary:
Treatment where patients moved:2400 mm
Treatments where patients don’t move :1650 mm
Care more than 10 residents :1650 mm
Care equals or less than 10 residents: 1100 mm
Care Occupancy
3.3.3.3 Corridors
1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), a corridor used by the public
or serving patients’ or residents’ sleeping rooms shall have no
dead-end portion.
2) Corridors 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 3 m.
Note:
IN NBC 2010 Dead-end corridors are
still limited to 6 meters , Alberta is still
Asking for a maximum of 3 meters.
Care Occupancy
3.4.3.2 Stairs Width
Summary:
More than 10 residents
Not more than 2 storeys above lowest exit level: 1100 mm
Serves more than 2 storeys above lowest exit level: 1650 mm
Not more than 10 residents:
Not more than 2 storeys above lowest exit level : 900 mm
Seves more than 2 storeys above lowest exit level : 1100 mm
Care Occupancy
3.4.3.2 Door Width
B3 Occupancy
• Clear width of 850 mm
• Width based on the concept of one person
providing assistance to another during
evacuation.
Care Occupancy
3.2.5.12 Sprinklers
NFPA 13 – Most Group B-3 Occupancies
1. More than 10 occupants
2. Greater than 3 storeys
Care Occupancy
3.2.5.12 Sprinklers
NFPA 13R
1. Not more than 10 occupants
2. Not more than 3 storeys
or
NFPA 13D
1. Contains not more than 2 suites
2. Not more than 5 residents throughout, and
3. 30 minutes water supply demand can be met.
Care Occupancy
Check other requirements:
3.8.3.3(5) Doorways and Doors (Power Doors).
3.2.4.3(1)c Types of Fire Alarm.
3.3.1.5.B Egress in floor area.
3.3.1.17(4) Capacity of Access to Exit(18.4 mm).
3.3.5.7(2) Vestibules(storage Garage)
Care Occupancy
3.1.2.5. Convalescent and Children’s Custodial Homes
1) Convalescent homes and children’s custodial homes are
permitted to be classified as residential occupancies
within the application of Part 3, provided that occupants
are ambulatory and live as a single housekeeping unit in
a suite with sleeping accommodation for not more than 10
persons.
9.10.2.2. Custodial and Convalescent Homes
1) Children’s custodial homes and convalescent homes for
ambulatory occupants living as a single housekeeping
unit in a dwelling unit with sleeping accommodation for
not more than 10 persons are permitted to be classified as
residential occupancies
(Group C).
3.8.1.2. BARRIER-FREE PATH OF TRAVEL
1) In addition to the barrier-free entrances required by Sentence (2), not less than
50% of the pedestrian entrances, including the primary entrance, of a building
referred to in Sentence 3.8.1.1.(1), including walkways leading to the entrances
from a public thoroughfare and from on site parking areas, shall be barrier-free.
4) At a barrier-free entrance that includes more than one doorway, only the primary
entrance shall be required to be designed in accordance with the requirements of
Article 3.8.3.3.
3.8.2.2. ACCESS TO PARKING
4) A parking stall intended for use by persons using a
wheelchair or other mobility aid shall
a) be designed as a 2.4 m wide parking stall adjacent to a
2.4 m wide access aisle where the access aisle is
demarcated to indicate no parking,
b) have a firm, slip-resistant and level surface,
c) be clearly marked and identified by
i) a vertically mounted sign, located near the centreline of
each designated stall, with the centre of the sign between
1 600 to 2 500 mm from the finished surface, and
ii) the International Symbol of Access painted on the pavement,
d) be located near to or adjoining a barrier-free path of travel
leading to the nearest barrier-free entrance, and
e) be designed so that parked vehicles shall not obstruct access
onto an elevated and level surface.
5) If adaptable and/or barrier-free dwelling units are
provided, one parking stall per unit shall be provided
meeting the requirements of Sentence (4).
Parking stalls – Barrier–Free design
TABLE 3.8.2.2.
Table 3.8.2.2.
Designated Parking Spaces
Forming Part of Sentence 3.8.2.2.(2)
Number of Parking Stalls Required
2 – 10
11 – 25
26 – 50
51 – 100
for each additional increment
of 100 or part thereof
Number of
Designated Stalls for Use by Persons
with Physical Disabilities
1
2
3
4
one additional stall
3.8.3.3. DOORS AND DOORWAYS
1) Every doorway that is located in a barrier-free path of travel shall
have a clear width not less than 850 mm when the door is in the
open position. (See Appendix A.)
2) Every doorway into rooms within a suite of residential occupancy
shall have a clear width not less than 850 mm when the door is in the
open position. (See Appendix A.)
3.8.3.13. SHOWERS
2) Sentence (1) does not apply to showers located
within
(a) a suite of care occupancy,
(b) a suite of residential occupancy,
(c) an industrial occupancy,
(d) a business and personal services occupancy
where the showers are not required for provision of
hygienic services related to the business, or
(e) a mercantile occupancy.
3.8.4. ADAPTABLE DWELLING UNITS
3.8.4.1. Application
1) Residential projects of 10 or more units funded in whole
or in part by the Government of Alberta are required to
provide adaptable dwelling units which could be made to
meet barrier-free design principles and shall be provided
as follows:
a) 1 per 10 dwelling units, based on the total number of
units in a project, and
b) adaptable dwelling units shall conform to the
requirements of this Subsection.
3.8.4.2. GENERAL ACCESSIBILITY
1) At least one entrance serving an adaptable dwelling unit, including
walkways leading to the entrance from a public thoroughfare and from
on-site parking areas, shall be barrier-free. (See also Article 3.8.1.2. for
common entrances to buildings.)
2) A barrier-free path of travel shall be provided between the interior
living space of the dwelling unit and any ancillary space serving it,
including the garage, balcony or deck.
3) Entryways, kitchens, washrooms, laundry rooms and other areas of a
dwelling unit shall be designed with an unobstructed turning diameter of
not less than 1 500 mm.
4)Windowsills shall be located not more than 865 mm above the floor
level and be equipped with opening devices located not more than 60
mm above the windowsill and of a design that does not require tight
grasping, pinching or twisting of the wrist as the only means of
operation.
3.8.4.2. GENERAL ACCESSIBILITY CONT’D
5) Controls for the operation of building services or safety devices,
including electrical switches, electrical panels, thermostats and
intercom switches, shall be mounted between 400 mm and 1 200 mm
above the finished floor.
6) Electrical outlets shall be mounted between 400 mm and 1 200 mm
above the finished floor level.
7) Every doorway into rooms within the dwelling unit shall have a clear
width not less than 850 mm when the door is in the open position.
8) A doorway referred to in Sentence (7) or present in the barrier-free
path of travel referred to in Sentences (1) and (2) shall conform to
Sentences 3.8.3.3.(4) and (10).
9)Structural support shall be provided in at least one bedroom and one
washroom to accommodate a ceiling track lift.
10) Door and window frames and base boards shall be contrasting in
colour to doors, walls and floors.
3.8.4.3. BATHROOMS
1) An adaptable dwelling unit shall be provided with a bathroom
containing either a barrier-free shower or bathtub, in accordance with
the following:
a) where there is an even number of adaptable dwelling units required,
50% of the dwelling units shall have a bathroom containing a barrierfree shower, and the remaining 50% shall have a bathroom
containing a barrier-free bathtub, and
b) where there is an odd number of adaptable dwelling units required,
the number of dwelling units with a bathroom containing a barrier-free
shower shall exceed the number of dwelling units with a bathroom
containing a barrier-free bathtub by 1.
2) The barrier-free bathroom referred to in Sentence (1) shall have the
a) shower conform to Clauses 3.8.3.13.(1)(a), (b), (c), (d) and (g)
where a shower is provided, and
b) bathtub conform to Clauses 3.8.3.17.(1)(a) and (d) and
Clause 3.7.2.9.(1)(d) where a bathtub is provided.
3.8.4.3. BATHROOMS CONT’D
3)The bathroom referred to in Sentence (1) shall be provided with a
lavatory conforming to Clauses 3.8.3.11.(1)(a) to (d).
4) The bathroom referred to in Sentence (1) shall be provided with a
water closet conforming to Sentence 3.8.3.9.(1) and Clause
3.8.3.12.(1)(d).
5) The bathroom referred to in Sentence (1) shall be designed to allow
for the installation of grab bars conforming to
a) Sentence 3.8.3.8.(2) to serve the water closet,
b) Clause 3.8.3.8.(1)(f) to serve the shower where one is
provided, and
c) Clause 3.7.2.9.(1)(c) to serve the bathtub where one is
provided.
3.8.4.4. KITCHENS
1) Every kitchen counter shall have at least one barrier-free section
not less than 760 mm long centered over a knee space conforming
to Sentence (3).
2) The top surface of the barrier-free section referred to in Sentence
(1) shall be not more than 865 mm above the finished floor level.
3) The knee space beneath the barrier-free section referred to in
Sentence (1) shall be not less than
a) 760 mm wide,
b) 685 mm high, and
c) 485 mm deep.
4) Counters intended for the installation of a kitchen sink or a
cooktop shall be provided with a means of adjusting their height so
that the counter surface is
a) not less than 710 mm above the finished floor level, and
b) not more than the height of the adjacent counter surface.
3.8.4.4. KITCHENS CON’TD
5) The kitchen sink or cooktop referred to in Sentence (4)
shall be provided with a clearance beneath the sink or
cooktop of not less than
a) 760 mm wide,
b) 685 mm high at a point 205 mm back from the front edge,
and
c) 230 mm high over the distance from a point 280 mm to a
point 430 mm back from the front edge.
6) Overhead kitchen cabinets shall be provided with a means
of adjusting their height by not less than 500 mm, provided
the minimum clearances for cooktops specified in Subsection
9.10.22. are not reduced at the lowered height.
Thank You!
ALBERTA MUNICIPAL AFFAIRS
Duty Officer Information Line
Communication Inquiry Center
Phone: 1-866-421-6929
Email: safety.services@gov.ab.ca