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Reviewing Products for Code Compliance
Before any product is installed in a building, it should be reviewed and approved by the registered professional of record (architect or engineer). Just about

Playing with Fire – Do you know Part 4?
Part 4 of the Fire Code applies to the storage, handling, processing, dispensing, and use of flammable and combustible liquids – in buildings, structures, and

Providing Assurance for Public Safety
As a former firefighter, Bill Copeland was familiar with how to handle himself in an emergency situation and, if necessary, save someone’s life. This was

Wind Load: It’s a Breeze
Wood-Framed Shop Damaged by Wind (K. Sebastian) Canada’s prairies were hit hard by a record-breaking Alberta clipper last week, leaving a trail of devastation. Did

Amendments, Errata and Revisions: Important Updates for Fire Protection and Life Safety Professionals
Have you ever applied the wrong edition of a standard? Or referenced an incorrect requirement because you missed an amendment? Or done work in a

Growing Tall
“The desire to reach for the sky runs very deep in the human psyche” – César Pelli As the world gets more dense and cities

The Philosophy of Force: A Building Official’s Perspective
The construction industry, in all of its vast stakeholders, have at least one thing in common; that they generally cannot choose the building official tasked

Changing Your Occupant Load?
The occupant load of a room, floor area, or building impacts various provisions in the Building Code. These are (typically) considered and accounted for during

Egress vs Exit?
One Building Code issue that tends to present itself on many projects is the difference between an exit and a means of egress. It’s a

Building a Better Fire Safety Plan
Whether you are in design, inspections, code consulting or an inspection, testing and maintenance (ITM) contractor, there is no doubt that you’ve walked into a

Architects & Engineers – When are they Required?
Requirements for registered professionals (architects and engineers) on building projects can be confusing, as the requirements are not provided in one location. In this post,

Making the Most of Annual Life Safety System Inspection Reports
Although the annual inspection records can be large and comprehensive documents, there are a few key areas to look at and questions to ask that