SUBSECTION 3.1.8. - FIRE SEPARATIONS AND CLOSURES, ARTICLE 3.7.3.3.

BRANCH OPINION

SUBSECTION 3.1.8. - FIRE SEPARATIONS AND CLOSURES, ARTICLE 3.7.3.3. - DOORWAYS AND DOORS

RE: PROPRIETARY GLAZING MATERIAL & VISION PANELS ON DOOR

First concerns a listed proprietary glazing material to used in an exit enclosure, and the second concerns barrier-free requirements for locating vision panels on doors. The following comments are based on the 1990 Ontario Building Code (OBC).

A non-loadbearing wall assembly incorporating the proprietary glazing material, Flachglas AG PYROSTOP, has been tested and is listed by Warnock Hersey to have a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour (Design No. FLA/WA 60-01) in accordance with CAN/ULC-S101, "Standard Methods of Fire Endurance Tests of Building Construction and Materials".

It is the Branch's opinion that this proprietary glazing material may be used in an exit enclosure provided

it meets the temperature rise requirements of OBC Table 3.1.8.B.,
its installation is in strict accordance with the listing stipulations of Warnock Hersey, and
the requirements of OBC Article 3.1.8.6. are complied with. Other similar listed proprietary glazing materials may be used under the same restrictions.

The door detail indicates two rectangular vision panels near the latch side of the door. The top of the bottom panel is located at 835 mm and the bottom of the top panel is located at 1060 mm above the bottom of the door. It is the Branch's opinion that this arrangement meets the intent of OBC Clause 3.7.3.3.(12)(a) since the top of the bottom panel would be less than 900 mm above the finished floor. However, it should be pointed out that the panels must be located not more than 200 mm from the latch side of the door as required by OBC Clause 3.7.3.3.(12)(b).

Before proceeding on the basis of the above opinions, please ensure that the municipalities having jurisdiction are in agreement because, under the Building Code Act, municipalities are responsible for enforcing the OBC.

February 21, 1996

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