Blog

Why the Lack of Fire Code Compliance in Small Town Saskatchewan?
In my last blog, I addressed what can be done to reduce the mounting fire losses in small town Saskatchewan (you can find it here).

Code Implications of Moving an Existing Building
Structural Implications of Reuse of an Existing Building Occasionally, property owners may wish to make changes to the use and/or location of an existing building. This might mean moving a building across the

Back to Basics – Stairs
I know what you’re thinking – stairs, really? Stairs are fundamental to a building’s design, and the useability of the space for the rest of

Adequate Water Supply
The requirements contained in Division B – Part 3 of the National Building Code of Canada (NBC), and the provincial building codes based on this

Buildings on the Fringe
What is a Building Code? What does it do? Most would agree that it is a document filled with a series of rules that have been put in place to make buildings

“Newish Kid on the Block” – The NECB
In the early years of my career, I was led to believe by many of my mentors that the true enemies of good design are

Pre-Incident Plans – the Building Official’s Contribution
“A pre-incident plan is one of the most valuable tools available for aiding responding personnel in effectively controlling an emergency.” NFPA 1620, A.4.1.1 NFPA 1620,

Tipping Points – Limited Quantities of Flammable Liquids
There is a misconception that the National Fire Code of Canada applies only to industrial facilities handling bulk volumes of liquids such as refineries or

Greenhouses
Plants are THE Best. I love plants and I especially love visiting greenhouses in the winter. Stepping into a warm, humid room and inhaling the

Cloudy Exit Requirements
There is a lack of clarity surrounding exits in the Building Code…and it has me fired up. I may sound like a broken record, but

What’s the Problem? | (Teeny) Tiny Homes
There is a Tiny Home movement, and I’m all here for it. Only problem is I’m a Codie, and have no idea how to deal

Data Analysis & Public Education: 8 Questions to Assess Your Public Education Campaign
Originally written in June 2020 for LinkedIN. During the Covid19 pandemic fire departments are responding to an increased number of residential fires. Citynews.ca indicates that