The Ontario Building Code | Door Swing
3.3.1.10. door Swing
(1) Except as permitted by Article 3.3.1.11., a door that opens into a corridor or other facility providing access to exitfrom a suite, or a room not located within a suite, shall swing on a vertical axis.
(2) Except as permitted by Article 3.3.1.11., a door that opens into a corridor or other facility providing access to exitfrom a room or suite shall swing in the direction of travel to the exit if the room or suite is used or intended for,
(a) an occupant load more than 60,
(b) a high hazard industrial occupancy, or
(c) a hazardous classroom in an elementary or secondary school.
(3) Every door that divides a corridor that is not wholly contained within a suite shall swing on a vertical axis in the direction of travel to the exit where the corridor provides access to exit for,
(a) an occupant load more than 60,
(b) a high hazard industrial occupancy,
(c) a hazardous classroom in an elementary or secondary school, or
(d) a Group B, Division 2 or 3 occupancy.
Note: On July 1, 2017, Sentence 3.3.1.10.(3) of Division B of the Regulation is amended by striking out "or" at the end of Clause (c), by adding "or" at the end of Clause (d) and by adding the following Clause: (See: O. Reg. 139/17, s. 36)
(e) a retirement home.
(4) If a pair of doors is installed in a corridor that provides access to exit in both directions, the doors shall swing in opposite directions, with the door on the right hand side swinging in the direction of travel to the exit.
In Plain Language
This clause sets requirements for handrails and guards on exit stairs, ensuring occupants have something to hold onto and are protected from falling over an open edge while using the stairs in an emergency.
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.