BCAB #1571 - Fire Alarm System in Sprinklered Townhouse Project, Sentence 9.10.1.3.(8)

September 11, 2002

BCAB #1571

Re: Fire Alarm System in Sprinklered Townhouse Project, Sentence 9.10.1.3.(8)

Project Description

The project in question is a new Part 9 five-unit townhouse project. Each unit is two storeys plus basement and has two egress doors from the first storey. The building is fully sprinklered as required by a municipal bylaw.

Reason for Appeal

Sentence 9.10.1.3.(8) states that where sprinkler systems are installed they shall conform to Part 3. This is a very broad reference and there is disagreement as to what requirements of Part 3 are applicable.

Appellant’s Position

The appellant contends that Sentence 9.10.1.3.(8) applies only to the installation of the sprinkler system and is referring to Subsection 3.2.5., Provisions for Fire Fighting, which contains the requirements for installing sprinkler systems.

Building Official's Position

The building official maintains that Sentence 9.10.1.3.(8) refers to Part 3 in general. Therefore, Sentence 3.2.4.1.(1) which requires a fire alarm system in any building with a sprinkler system, also applies. Also, the User’s Guide to Part 3 of the NBC states "regardless of any other conditions, a fire alarm system is required in every building in which an automatic sprinkler system is installed."

Appeal Board Decision #1571

It is the determination of the Board that Sentence 9.10.1.3.(8) applies only to the installation requirements of the sprinkler system itself and is not intended to refer to other requirements such as fire alarms.

George Humphrey, Chair