2024 Ontario Building Code Compliance: Wiring and Noncombustible Construction Standards for London Projects
Sarah's Expert Insight
OBC Compliance Specialist
"Navigating the nuances of FT4 and FT6 cable ratings is critical for high-tech commercial build-outs in London and Oakville, especially when integrating complex data rooms. At empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we ensure that every non-metallic raceway and decorative cladding element meets these 2024 OBC fire-safety benchmarks to protect your investment and project timeline."
Understanding OBC Section 3.1.5: Materials in Noncombustible Buildings
When executing large-scale commercial or multi-unit residential projects, adhering to the 2024 Ontario Building Code (OBC) is essential for safety and legal compliance. As your expert team at empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we specialize in navigating these technical requirements.
3.1.5.22. Combustible Travelling Cables for Elevators
The code permits the use of combustible travelling cables within elevating devices, even in buildings where noncombustible construction is strictly required. This allows for necessary mechanical flexibility while maintaining overall fire safety standards.
3.1.5.23. Non-metallic Raceways and Fire Ratings
Non-metallic raceways (up to 175 mm in diameter) are permitted for optical fiber and electrical cables within fire compartments, provided they meet specific flame spread and smoke density ratings:
- FT4 Rating: Required for standard installations to ensure limited vertical charring (max 1.5 m).
- FT6 Rating: Mandatory for raceways used in plenums, requiring rigorous horizontal flame distance and smoke density testing (CAN/ULC-S102.4).
3.1.5.24. Fire-Retardant Wood Decorative Cladding
For buildings required to be of noncombustible construction, decorative wood cladding is allowed on exterior fascias and soffits of marquees or canopies at the street level. However, the wood must be fire-retardant-treated and conditioned according to ASTM D2898 and CAN/ULC-S102 standards.
3.1.5.25. Electrical Safety in Computer Room Floors
Cables located beneath raised floors in computer rooms must meet specific fire-resistance criteria to prevent flame propagation:
- Must achieve an FT1 Rating (not conveying flame for more than 1 minute).
- Alternatively, they may meet FT4 or FT6 Ratings depending on the specific smoke and flame spread characteristics of the installation.
Disclaimer: This content is generated from the Ontario Building Code for educational purposes. Always consult with a licensed professional engineer or your local building department before starting any construction project in London, Ontario.