The Ontario Building Code | Voice Communication System
3.2.6.8. Voice Communication System
(1) A voice communication system conforming to Article 3.2.4.23. shall be provided in a building if,
(a) the floor of the top storey is more than 36 m above grade,
(b) a floor areaor part of a floor area located above the third storey is designed or intended for use as a Group B, Division 2 or 3 occupancy, or
(c) a floor areaor part of a floor area located more than 18 m above grade is designed or intended for use as a retirement home regulated under the Retirement Homes Act, 2010 that is a Group C occupancy.
In Plain Language
This clause requires standby power in high buildings for critical life-safety systems (like the fire pump, emergency lighting, and firefighters' elevator) so they continue operating if the normal electrical supply fails during a fire.
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.