OBC Plumbing Fixture Standards for Industrial and Mercantile Occupancies
Sarah's Expert Insight
OBC Compliance Specialist
"In commercial hubs like London and Oakville, we often find that the 900 mm impervious surface protection rule is the most overlooked detail during industrial retrofits, leading to premature floor degradation. At empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we strictly enforce these moisture-protection and load-bearing grab bar standards to ensure your facility is not only OBC compliant but built to withstand high-traffic industrial use."
Compliance for Mercantile and Industrial Occupancies (Group E & F)
Navigating the Ontario Building Code (OBC) is essential for any commercial renovation or new build. As empcontracting.ca Inc. your construction contractor in London, Ontario, we ensure every detail of Sections 3.7.4.8 through 3.7.4.13 is met for maximum safety and durability.
Mercantile Occupancy (Group E) Plumbing Requirements
Under Article 3.7.4.8, Group E occupancies—such as retail stores—may provide a single water closet for both sexes if the occupant load is nine persons or fewer, or if the total area (excluding basements) does not exceed 300 m². For restaurants classified under mercantile occupancy, plumbing requirements must align with Article 3.7.4.3.
Industrial Occupancy (Group F) Plumbing Standards
Article 3.7.4.9 mandates specific plumbing fixture counts for industrial settings. A single shared water closet is permitted if the occupant load is 10 persons or fewer, or the area is under 300 m². Otherwise, the following counts apply per sex:
- Up to 9 persons: 1 fixture
- 10 to 24 persons: 2 fixtures
- 25 to 49 persons: 3 fixtures
- 50 to 74 persons: 4 fixtures
- 75 to 100 persons: 5 fixtures
- Over 100: 6 plus 1 for each additional 30 persons
Surface Protection and Floor Drains
Article 3.7.4.11 requires that floors and walls around urinals and water closets be protected with impervious and durable materials for at least 900 mm from the fixture's outline to prevent deterioration. Furthermore, Article 3.7.4.12 requires floor drains in public washrooms equipped with automatic flushing devices to manage potential overflow.
Safety Standards: Glazing and Grab Bars
For safety in washroom environments, all glazing for shower or bathtub enclosures must meet Class A of CAN/CGSB 12.1. Additionally, any installed grab bars must be capable of resisting a minimum load of 1.3 kN in either vertical or horizontal directions.
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.