Notice: This site currently shows the 2012/2017 edition of the Ontario Building Code. The current legally effective code is the 2024 edition (O.Reg. 163/24), in effect since January 1, 2025. Confirm current requirements at ontario.ca.

The Ontario Building Code | Service Rooms

9.9.5.8. service Rooms

(1) service rooms containing equipment subject to possible explosion, such as boilers designed to operate at a pressure in excess of 100 kPa, and certain types of refrigerating and transformer equipment, shall not be located under required exits.

In Plain Language

Service rooms have restrictions on their relationship to means of egress, as set out in this article, since mechanical and electrical rooms can pose particular fire and hazard risks to an escape route.

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.