The Ontario Building Code | Openings Near Unenclosed Exit Stairs and Ramps
9.9.4.4. Openings Near Unenclosed Exit Stairs and Ramps
(1) Where an unenclosed exterior exit stair or ramp provides the only means of egress from a suite, and is exposed to fire from openings in the exterior walls of another fire compartment, the openings in the exterior walls of the buildingshall be protected with wired glass in fixed steel frames or glass block conforming to Articles 9.10.13.5. and 9.10.13.7. when the openings in the exterior walls of the building are within 3 m horizontally and less than 10 m below or less than 5 m above the exit stair or ramp.
In Plain Language
Openings near unenclosed exit stairs and ramps have restrictions set out in this article, limiting how fire or smoke from an adjacent space could threaten an escape route that isn't otherwise enclosed.
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.