High Intensity Residential Fire - 10 Minute Response. Building Code Implications

The Town of Canmore has recently completed an update to the 10 minute response High Intensity Residential Fires (HIRF) map. This  map indicates the areas in town the fire department can reach within 10 minutes with the ability to start external suppression of fire, according to NFPA standards.
 
The purpose of the map is to indicate where in Town the building code components related to HIRF must be applied. If a development is outside of the 10 minute response map, then additional building code conditions on the development must be met (i.e. side yard set-backs, side windows, non-combustible materials, etc.).
 
Practically, this means that more developments in Town, including infill developments in the Town center, will be required to meet the additional HIRF building code requirements. The map is being revised, and may be slightly expanded. We understand that it will be implemented by the end of September.

BOWDA is hosting a seminar for our members to outline the implications of the 10-minute fire response map on the Alberta Building Code (ABC) requirements. Note: this is not an evaluation or critique of the report that sets out the 10-minute fire map. The seminar will focus only on the practical implications for builders and designers.

Following is the agenda for the seminar:

Building Code Requirements.
Canmore Planning Department / Safety Codes Officer. Implications of the 10-minute fire response map on building requirements:

• Set backs;
• Windows;
• Non-combustible siding;
• Soffits
• Sprinkler system

• Installing sprinkler system in residential homes in Canmore. Simplex Grinnell / Johnson Controls (Ryan Buick)

• Options
  • Water supply sufficient
  • Water supply shortfall: holding tank option
• Costs
• Installation
• Servicing
• Dispelling myths
  • Burn the toast and the sprinkler goes off
  • Sprinklers are visible and ugly

• Fire Shutters, Fire rated glazing. Ultra-Lite Doors, Calgary.
  • Options
  • Costs
  • Installation
  • Servicing
• Alternative Solution Process (Town of Canmore)