The Ontario Building Code | Vibration
4.1.3.6. Vibration
(1) floor systems susceptible to vibration shall be designed so that vibrations will have no significant adverse effects on the intended occupancy of the building.
(2) Where the fundamental vibration frequency of a structural system supporting an assembly occupancy used for rhythmic activities, such as dancing, concerts, jumping exercises or gymnastics, is less than 6 Hz, the effects of resonance shall be investigated by means of a dynamic analysis.
(3) A building susceptible to lateral vibration under wind load shall be designed in accordance with Article 4.1.7.2. so that the vibrations will have no significant adverse effects on the intended use and occupancy of the building.
4.1.4. Dead Loads
In Plain Language
Floor systems prone to vibration must be designed so vibration doesn't meaningfully disturb the building's occupants, since a floor can be strong enough to be safe yet still feel unpleasantly bouncy to walk on.
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.