The Building Code refers to public corridors (defined term), but also corridors used by the public (not defined).
In Part 3, there is reference to corridors used by the public in Sentence 3.1.8.14.(6), Clause 3.1.13.6.(1)(b), Sentence 3.3.2.6.(1), Sentence 3.3.3.3.(1), Sentence 3.4.5.1.(6), Subclause 3.4.2.4.(2)(b)(i), etc.
My question is: What is the actual difference behind to two? Why is it so confusing in the Building Code… and where can I find more information on the intent of the differences?
3 Responses
As per the definition of public corridor, that applies when there are individual “suites” as defined into code, that each open into a shared corridor. Such as several dwelling units in an apartment opening into a shared corridor.
For a corridor that is used by the public and is not a public corridor, that situation exist in a hospital with patients rooms opening into a shared corridor, or a school that has individual classrooms opening into the shared corridor.
The key lies in determining if the room opening into the shared corridor is a “suite” as defined or not.
Thanks for the insight Darrell! I also find Article 3.3.2.6. a bit odd to apply. Reading through it it seems like it is the same requirements as 3.3.1.4. Have you come across any instances where 3.3.2.6 was applied differently that 3.3.1.4?
Hello Kelsey, I stumbled across this website. I will chime in a bit here.
There are basically two differences: type of corridor (public corridor vs. corridor used by the public), and whether or not sprinklering is a consideration.
As Darrell (Hi Darrell!) correctly mentions the key between corridor types is based upon tenancy arrangement: single tenancy or multiple tenancy in the subject floor area.
There are several organizations (building officials and registered professionals alike) with interpretations across Canada, in addition to, Appeal Board decisions and helpful commentaries through NRC or fire safety/protection publications. I firmly believe that the NBC Commentary should be required reading for all code users (both commentaries to decipher the idiosyncrasies between Part 3 and 9). There is potential to lose oneself in all the available literature. It’s so much fun and entertaining.
One such older appeal in BC can be viewed at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/industry/construction-industry/building-codes-standards/building-code-appeal-board/building-code-appeal-board-decisions/bcab-1257
Upon a cursory review of the Community Q & A, there are other questions being asked that would benefit from a code consultant or savvy registered professional/building official.
Best of luck with your blog/website and career aspirations.