A-3.4.3.4. Clear Height and Width.

 A-3.4.3.4. Clear Height and Width. 

Clear height is intended to be measured from a line tangent to the nosings extended to the underside of the lowest element above the walking surface, over the clear width of the exit (see Figure A-3.4.3.4.). Examples of low elements above the walking surface include light fixtures or sprinkler heads and piping.

Clear width is intended to be measured from a line tangent to horizontal protrusions such as handrails.

Quoted from NBC2020

#clearheight #clearwidth #buildingcode #sprinklerheads #lightfixture #handrail

This article is important

3.2.3.13.2) If an unenclosed exterior exit #stair or ramp could be exposed to fire from an opening in the exterior wall of the building it serves, the opening in the exterior #wall of the building shall be protected in conformance with the requirements of Sentence (4) where the opening in the exterior wall of the building is within 3m horizontally and

a) less than 10m below the exit stair or ramp, or

b) less than 5m above the exit stair or ramp.

#exteriorexitstair #exteriorwall #exitstair #exitramp #buildingcode

Quiz

1.  A distillery plant is proposed on the main floor of a 20 storey residential building. Does this comply with the NBC2020?

a) Yes

b) No

2. A flour mill and a jail in a building are required to have:

a) 1h fire separation

b) 2h fire separation

c) 3h fire separation

d) 4h firewall

3. The required fire separation between a dry cleaning plant and a clothing store is: 

a) 1h

b) 2h

c) 3h

d) 4h

🚀 Building Classification: The Soul of building Design 🏗️🔥

 🚀 Building Classification: The Soul of building Design 🏗️🔥

Did you know that building classification is the soul of building design? It dictates critical safety and cost decisions, yet many overlook its importance.

✅ Combustible construction allowed?

✅ Sprinkler system required?

✅ Fire resistance ratings for floor assemblies & load-bearing elements?

Get it right, and you save hundreds of thousands of dollars. Get it wrong, and you risk unnecessary costs.

Imagine spending $200k plus on a sprinkler system… only to later discover it wasn’t required by code. 💸

Whether you're an architect, engineer, or developer, understanding building classification isn’t just about compliance—it’s about smart, efficient design.

Have you ever encountered challenges with building classification? Share your experiences below! 👇 #Construction #BuildingDesign #FireSafety #Architecture #Engineering

🚨 A $100K Code Lesson: Why Existing Buildings Need Smart Enforcement

 🚨 A $100K Code Lesson: Why Existing Buildings Need Smart Enforcement

A recent high-rise renovation project nearly derailed over a technical code violation—until a closer look revealed a critical enforcement error. Here’s what happened:

A 1970s office tower converting to residential use was flagged because its fire hydrant sat 90m from the Fire Department Connection (FDC)—exceeding NBC 2020’s 45m rule. The inspector demanded a new $100K+ hydrant installation.

The problem?

The renovation didn’t touch the hydrant location, plumbing, or the building’s core life-safety systems (non-combustible construction, 2hr fire ratings, etc.). The "violation" was purely about applying today’s standards to a 50-year-old, code-compliant-when-built structure.

The Code Insight That Saved the Project

✅ NBC 2020 Note A-1.1.1.1.(1): “ It is not intended that the NBC be used to enforce the retrospective application of new requirements to existing buildings or existing portions of relocated buildings, unless specifically required by local regulations or bylaws.”

✅ Key Principle: Existing buildings shouldn’t be forced to meet new codes unless the renovation directly impacts the non-compliant element.

Why This Matters to Every Developer, Architect, and Inspector

1️⃣ Cost Control: Avoid six-figure retrofits for untouched systems.

2️⃣ Risk-Based Thinking: This building’s fire safety wasn’t compromised—office and residential high-rises share identical core protections.

3️⃣ Enforcement Clarity: Codes aren’t retroactive by design—unless local bylaws explicitly say otherwise.

The Takeaway

Always ask:  Does an existing-building clause or note apply to my project?

This mindset might save a client from unnecessary costs—have you seen similar code misinterpretations?

#BuildingCode #ConstructionLaw #FireSafety #Renovation #CostSavings #ExistingBuildings #NBC #AHJ

Definition--Building Height

 Definition--Building Height

Building height (in storeys) means the number of storeys contained between the #roof and the #floor of the first storey.

#buildingheight #buildingcode #firststorey

A-3.4.5.1.(2)(c) Graphical Symbols for Exit Signs.

 A-3.4.5.1.(2)(c) Graphical Symbols for Exit Signs.

ISO 7010, “Graphical symbols – Safety colours and safety signs – Registered safety signs,” identifies the following internationally recognized symbols for use at required exits.

Quoted from NBC-2020

#exitsigns, #graphicalsymbol, #buildingcode, #exit

🏡→🏢 Why Converting a House to Commercial Space Is More Complex Than It Seems

 🏡→🏢 Why Converting a House to Commercial Space Is More Complex Than It Seems

Thinking about turning that charming home into a daycare, office, or boutique? Before you commit, here are the key code challenges you'll face:

1️⃣ Building Code Differences

The shift from Residential (9.10.15) to Commercial (9.10.14) brings significant changes:

🏠 Residential Standards

• No fire resistance rating required

• Larger windows permitted

• Combustible exterior walls allowed

🏢 Commercial Requirements

• Non-combustible exterior walls typically needed

• Strict fire resistance ratings for floors and load-bearing walls

• Tight restrictions on window sizes

2️⃣ Structural Considerations

The load requirements increase substantially:

• Residential: 1.9 kPa

• Commercial: Up to 4.8 kPa (2.5× more)

→ This usually means structural reinforcements and added costs

The Reality

While conversions are possible, many property owners are surprised by:

• The full scope of required upgrades

• The actual costs involved

• The time needed to meet all commercial standards

Have you gone through this process? What challenges surprised you? Share your experiences below! ⬇️

#PropertyConversion #BuildingCodes #ConstructionChallenges #RealEstateTips #Renovation