The Ontario Building Code | Stairways in Group D or E Buildings
9.9.4.7. Stairways in Group D or E buildings
(1) Notwithstanding the requirements of Sentences 9.9.4.2.(1), 9.9.8.2.(1) and Article 9.10.9.5., where a suite of Group D or E occupancyis located partly on the first storey and partly on the second storey or partly on the second storey and partly on the third storey, stairways serving that suite need not be constructed as exit stairs, provided,
(a) the buildingis not greater than three storeys in building height,
(b) the suiteis separated from other occupancies by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min,
(c) the area occupied by the suite is not greater than 100 m² per storey, other than the exitlevel storey,
(d) the maximum travel distance from any point in the suite to an exterior exit is not greater than 25 m,
(e) the floor assemblies have a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min or are of noncombustible construction,
(f) the basementand first storey are separated by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 45 min, and
(g) a smoke alarm is installed on each floor of the suite, including the basement, in accordance with Subsection 9.10.19.
(2) Revoked: O. Reg. 191/14, s. 99.
9.9.5. Obstructions and Hazards in Means of Egress
In Plain Language
Stairways in Group D (business and personal services) or Group E (mercantile) buildings have specific requirements set out in this article addressing their particular occupancy and use patterns.
This is a plain-language summary of the 2012/2017 Ontario Building Code text above, for general understanding only and not a substitute for the Code. Always confirm current requirements against the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24) or a qualified professional before construction.