Building Code 2020: What You Need to Know
There are over 140 OBC changes to the 2012 Building Code released in 2019. The majority of amendments come into effect January 1, 2020. The OHBA has created these “Top 5 Lists” for both Part 9 and Part 3 changes to the Ontario Building Code.
For a comprehensive list of all of the changes, please go to the Ministry’s website: https://www.ontario.ca/page/building-code-updates.
The Ministry has also provided additional information session summaries on these amendments.
OHBA’s Part 9 Top 5 List of OBC Changes to be Aware of Come January 2020:
1. Division B / 6.2.3.12. – Supply, return, intake and exhaust openings
Brief: Minimum separation distances between exhaust and air intake openings must adhere to Table 6.2.3.12
2. Division B / 9.11. – Sound Transmission
Brief: Introduction of Apparent Sound Transmission Class rating (ASTC) to account for flanking sound transmission. Three compliance paths are available, one of which uses an enhanced prescriptive method using existing STC ratings.
3. Division B / 9.10.19.1. and 8. – New Residential Fire Warning Systems
Brief: Addresses use and installation of residential fire warning systems
4. Division B / 9.6.1.3. – Structural Sufficiency of Glass
Brief: New Part 9 prescriptive tables based on various 1-in-50 hourly wind pressures and building location.
5. Division B / 9.20.8.5. – Projection of Masonry Veneer Beyond Supporting Members
Brief: Changes in the requirements for projection of masonry veneer resting on bearing support.
There are a number of other changes you should review as a part of the changes coming into effect January 1, 2020.
OHBA’s Part 3 Top 5 List of OBC Changes to be Aware of Come January 2020:
1. Article 3.1.5.5. – Combustible Components for Exterior Walls
Brief: Testing requirements of exterior wall assemblies with combustible components have been clarified.
2. Article 3.1.8.8. – Fire Dampers Waived and Article 31.88.A. – Smoke Dampers Waived
Brief: Clarification on where fire dampers and smoke dampers can be waived.
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3. Article 3.1.8.4. – Article 3.2.6.2. – Limits to Smoke Movement
Brief: Requirement for air handling system to remain operational and provide corridor pressurization after fire alarm activation.
4. Article 3.3.1.16. – Capacity of Access to Exits and Article 3.4.2.6. – Principal Entrance
Brief: Details principal entrance calculations for high occupant load dance halls and licensed beverage establishments that are non-sprinklered.
5. Article 3.8.3.13. – Showers and Bathtubs
Brief: Clarifies and enhances the accessibility and safety requirements for showers and bathtubs.
There are a number of other changes you should review as a part of the changes coming into effect January 1, 2020.
Changes You Should Already be Aware of:
All provisions related to electric vehicle charging have been deleted from the Building Code as of May 2, 2019.
Changes Effective Jan.1 2022 – You’ve Still Got Time
New requirements related to stairs, guards and handrails will come into effect January 1, 2022.
Please review the Ministry link for more information.
Building Code 2020