TG-01-2016

FIRE SAFETY PLANNING FOR

INDUSTRIAL OCCUPANCIES

Office of the Fire Marshal and

Emergency Management
 Preface

This guideline updates TG-02-2000 published in June 2002.

Portions of the guideline have been changed to reflect the
current requirements in the Fire Code, O. Reg. 213/07, as
amended.

August 2016

The reproduction of this guideline for non-commercial purposes is permitted and

encouraged. Permission to reproduce the guideline for commercial purposes must be
obtained from the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management, Ontario.
Fire Safety Planning for Industrial Occupancies TG-01-2016
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Abstract.......................................................................................................................... 2
1.0 SCOPE ................................................................................................................. 3
2.0 BACKGROUND ................................................................................................... 3
2.1 General Requirements for Fire Safety Planning ........................................ 3
2.2 What is a Fire Safety Plan? ....................................................................... 5
2.3 Benefits of Implementing a Fire Safety Plan .............................................. 6
3.0 DEFINITIONS ....................................................................................................... 6
4.0 THE TEN STEP PROCESS ................................................................................. 7
4.1 Step 1 – Conduct a Fire Safety Audit ......................................................... 8
4.2 Step 2 – Appointment and Organization of Supervisory Staff .................. 13
4.3 Step 3 – Develop Emergency Procedures ............................................... 14
4.4 Step 4 – Fire Drill Procedures and Training ............................................. 15
4.5 Step 5 – Maintenance of Building Facilities and Fire Protection
Equipment .............................................................................................. 16
4.6 Step 6 – Alternate Measures for Temporary Shutdown of Fire
Protection Equipment or Systems............................................................ 17
4.7 Step 7 – Control of Fire Hazards ............................................................. 18
4.8 Step 8 – Fire Department Access for Fire Fighting and Related Fire
Suppression Information .......................................................................... 19
4.9 Step 9 – Preparing Schematic Diagrams and Site Plans ......................... 20
4.10 Step 10 – Posting Emergency Procedures and Emergency Phone
Numbers .................................................................................................. 21
5.0 IMPLEMENTATION / UPDATING THE FIRE SAFETY PLAN........................... 22
6.0 SUMMARY ......................................................................................................... 22

Appendix A – Sample Symbols for Diagrams and Drawings ..................................A1

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Abstract
This guideline is intended to assist owners and managers of industrial operations to
develop and implement effective Fire Safety Plans for their businesses. The guideline
also provides guidance for owners on how to comply with the various aspects of the
Ontario Fire Code that apply to their property. The guideline has been designed in an
easy to use, step-by-step format, with checklists and examples that can be useful for
preparing a comprehensive Fire Safety Plan.

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1.0 SCOPE
Fire safety is an important responsibility for everyone. The consequences of poor fire
safety practices and a lack of emergency planning are especially serious in properties
where processes or quantities of stored materials could pose a serious threat to the
community and environment in the event of or an emergency.

In an effort to prevent fires and minimize the damage from fires when they occur,
owners and operators of industrial occupancies are encouraged to develop and
implement Fire Safety Plans for their property. This guideline provides a simple 10 step
process and checklists that can help owners and operators put together a
comprehensive Fire Safety Plan for their workplace.

2.0 BACKGROUND

2.1 General Requirements for Fire Safety Planning

A Fire Safety Plan is required under Section 2.8 of Division B and other areas of the
Ontario Fire Code. It must be prepared, approved and implemented in the following
industrial properties: (Refer to Section 2.8 “Emergency Planning” of Division B of the
Ontario Fire Code for the actual requirements.)

• buildings or open areas where quantities of flammable and combustible liquids

exceed 500 L in total or exceed 250 L of Class I Liquids;
• laboratories where flammable and combustible liquids are used or handled
(Article 4.12.4.1. Division B);
• buildings or premises containing 4 storeys or more, including storeys below
grade;
• outdoor tire storage yards regulated by Subsection 3.2.1. of Division B;
• buildings containing a high hazard industrial occupancy (F1), having an occupant
load exceeding 25 people (i.e., bulk plants for flammable liquids, warehouses for
hazardous substances, cereal mills, feed mills, flour mills, grain elevators,
chemical manufacturing and processing plants, distilleries, dry cleaning plants
using flammable or explosive solvents or cleaners, lacquer, paint, varnish and
pyroxylin product factories, rubber processing plants and spray painting
operations);
• buildings containing a medium hazard industrial occupancy (F2), having an
occupant load exceeding 100 people (i.e., aircraft hangers, cold storage plants,
dry cleaning establishments not using flammable or explosive solvents or
cleaners, freight depots, laboratories, laundries [except self-service], planing
mills, printing plants, repair garages, tire storage, warehouses and woodworking
factories); and

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• buildings containing a low hazard industrial occupancy, having an occupant load

exceeding 300 people (i.e., creameries, laboratories, power plants, storage
garages and warehouses).

The Fire Code, Ontario Regulation 213/07, as amended, is a Provincial Regulation

made under Part IV of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, S.O. 1997, c.4.
This regulation states that the owner is responsible for carrying out "all provisions of the
Code". An "owner" is defined as, "any person, firm or corporation controlling the
property under consideration."

In a court of law, the definition of "owner" could be interpreted to mean the owner whose
name is on title (an individual or individuals, a corporation, etc.). “Owner” could also
include any other person in control of the property such as an executive officer of a
corporation owning the building, administrator, or even a maintenance supervisor.
Penalties for non-compliance by an individual can be as high as $50,000 per count
and/or imprisonment for up to one year. Penalties for corporations may be a fine of up
to $100,000 per count.

Owners, managers and administrators of an industrial occupancy should be thoroughly

familiar with their responsibilities under the Ontario Fire Code, since contravention of
any provision can result in penalties as listed above.

In addition to the requirements within the Ontario Fire Code, the local fire department
under the provisions of the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997 may require the
owner to develop and implement a Fire Safety Plan.

Owners should be proactive in the area of fire safety by developing and implementing a
Fire Safety Plan, even in premises that are not required by law to have one.

The owner or an experienced business manager can prepare a Fire Safety Plan by
following the steps outlined in this guideline and in consultation with the local fire
department. In some instances, a qualified professional (Engineer, Architect, fire safety
consultant, etc.), may be consulted to assist with development of the plan or portions of
the plan.

Developing and implementing a Fire Safety Plan demonstrates an interest in promoting

fire safety. In return for resources used to develop a Fire Safety Plan, the incidence and
impact of fire will be reduced.

In instances where the Fire Safety Plan is required by the Ontario Fire Code or the local
fire department, a copy of the plan must be submitted to the Chief Fire Official for
approval and be retained on site in an approved location. Once approved by the Chief
Fire Official, the owner is responsible for implementing all aspects of the Fire Safety
Plan.

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The Ontario Fire Code, Ontario Regulation 213/07, as amended, is available from
ServiceOntario Publications, at College Park, 777 Bay Street, Market Level, Toronto
M5G 2C8, 1-800-668-9938.

The Ontario Fire Code and other important information is also available from the Office
of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Web site by using the following URL:
www.ontario.ca/firemarshal

2.2 What is a Fire Safety Plan?

A Fire Safety Plan is a detailed document designed to deal with all aspects of fire safety
relating to a specific building or property. The document is intended to be a reference
manual outlining the fire safety practices to be routinely used. Each Fire Safety Plan
should include the following information:

(Review the following information now, and use this checklist as you prepare your Fire
Safety Plan to be sure the plan addresses each of these issues. Refer to the actual
Ontario Fire Code Requirements outlined in Section 2.8 and Article 3.2.1.3. of
Division B.)

Every Fire Safety Plan should include:

• emergency procedures to be used in case of fire, including: sounding the alarm,

notifying the fire department, instructing occupants on procedures to be followed
when the fire alarm sounds, evacuating occupants, procedures for using
elevators, and confining, controlling and extinguishing the fire;
• instructions on ways to prevent fires and methods to control fire hazards
throughout the business;
• training of supervisory staff and the instruction of other occupants in their
responsibilities for fire safety;
• information about the appointment, organization and instruction of designated
supervisory staff and other occupants, including their related fire safety duties
and responsibilities;
• the method and frequency of conducting fire drills;
• detailed maintenance procedures for fire protection systems and building
features;
• the identification of alternate fire safety measures in the event of a temporary
shutdown of fire protection equipment or systems, so that occupant safety can be
assured;
• instructions and schematic diagrams describing the type, location and operation
of building fire emergency systems;

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• in outdoor tire storage yards include procedures for notifying the fire department
and assisting them in accessing the property for water tanker shuttle operations
and fire fighting purposes.

2.3 Benefits of Implementing a Fire Safety Plan

• Reduces the incidence of fire

• Promotes fire hazard identification and elimination
• Promotes employee safety and awareness
• Increases employee morale by allaying safety concerns
• Coordinates business and fire department resources during a fire emergency
• Reduces the potential impact of a fire on the business and community (injuries,
dollar losses, liability, etc.)
• Enhances Fire Code compliance

3.0 DEFINITIONS
The following definitions have been copied from Section 1.4 of Division A of the Ontario
Fire Code to assist you in understanding the meaning of these words and phrases
where they are used in this guideline and in the regulation. The definitions are intended
to help people understand their meaning in the context of the regulation.

Approved: means approved by the Chief Fire Official.

Building: means any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or
occupancy.

Check: means visual observation to ensure the device or system is in place and is not
obviously damaged or obstructed.

Chief Fire Official: means the assistant to the Fire Marshal who is the Municipal Fire
Chief or a member or members of the fire department appointed by the Municipal Fire
Chief under Article 1.1.1.2. of Division C or a person appointed by the Fire Marshal
under Article 1.1.1.1. of Division C.

Combustible Liquid: means any liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8°C and
below 93.3°C.

Flammable Liquid: means a liquid having a flash point below 37.8°C and having a
vapour pressure not more than 275.8 kPa (absolute) at 37.8°C as determined by
ASTM D 323, “Vapor Pressure of Petroleum Products (Reid Method)”.

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Flash Point: means the minimum temperature at which a liquid within a container
gives off vapour in sufficient concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air near the
surface of the liquid.

Inspect: means physical examination to determine that the device or system will
apparently perform in accordance with its intended function.

Owner: means any person, firm or corporation having control over any portion of the
building or property under consideration and includes the persons in the building or
property.

Supervisory Staff: means those occupants of a building who have some delegated
responsibility for the fire safety of other occupants under the Fire Safety Plan and may
include the fire department where the fire department agrees to accept these
responsibilities.

Test: means the operation of a device or system to ensure that it will perform in
accordance with its intended operation or function.

Vapour Pressure: means the pressure exerted by a liquid as determined by

ASTM D 323, “Vapor Pressure of Petroleum Product” (Reid Method).

4.0 THE TEN STEP PROCESS

The following synopsis outlines the Ten Step Process to developing a Fire Safety Plan.

STEP ACTION DESCRIPTION

Step 1 CONDUCT FIRE SAFETY AUDIT Identify all fire risks
and employee
resources
Step 2 APPOINTMENT AND ORGANIZATION OF Establish supervisory
EMERGENCY SUPERVISORY STAFF staff structure and
related responsibilities

Step 3 DEVELOP EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Establish procedures

for what to do in case
of fire
Step 4 FIRE DRILL PROCEDURES AND Train for effective
TRAINING response

Step 5 MAINTENANCE OF BUILDING FACILITIES Check, inspect, test

AND FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT and maintain

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STEP ACTION DESCRIPTION

Step 6 ALTERNATE MEASURES FOR What to do when
TEMPORARY SHUTDOWN OF FIRE OF emergency warning or
FIRE PROTECTION EQUIPMENT OR suppression systems
SYSTEM are down
Step 7 CONTROL OF FIRE HAZARDS Avoid, prevent, reduce
and control all fire
hazards
Step 8 FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS FOR FIRE Meet the needs of your
FIGHTING AND RELATED FIRE Fire Department
SUPPRESSION INFORMATION
Step 9 PREPARING SCHEMATIC DIAGRAMS Know your property;
AND SITE PLAN be prepared
Step 10 POSTING OF EMERGENCY Post the Fire Safety
PROCEDURES AND EMERGENCY Plan, Emergency
PHONE NUMBERS Procedures and phone
numbers in key
locations

4.1 Step 1 – Conduct a Fire Safety Audit

The development of a Fire Safety Plan is intended to take into consideration:

• the special nature of the business;

• the availability of human resources;
• the fire safety features provided within each building or premise; and
• processes or operations which may create a fire hazard.

Before preparing a Fire Safety Plan, it is suggested that a fire safety audit of the
property be conducted using the following checklists. The audit will help identify those
factors affecting fire safety within the property. While conducting the audit, make notes
of pertinent information relating to fire safety issues where applicable. This information
is needed to develop a useful Fire Safety Plan designed to address a specific property
and its special needs and characteristics. It will ensure the optimum use of staff and all
safety features provided.

Auditing the Property

If the business involves outdoor storage or processes materials outdoors, begin the
audit by examining the exterior of the property first.

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Where a Certificate of Approval has been required to satisfy environmental or other

purposes, the approval criteria should be re-examined to ensure the site still
corresponds with the necessary compliance provisions.

Start by preparing a site drawing. This will help provide a better overall view of the fire
safety issues affecting the property. The site drawing may become a key element of the
Fire Safety Plan. The drawing should be made to scale, if possible, and identify the
following;

• drawing orientation (north, south, east, west);

• property lines;
• security fences;
• use or occupancy of adjoining properties, i.e., residential, industrial, etc., and the
approximate distances to closest neighboring buildings and yard storage;
• points of entry for fire fighting vehicles;
• other points of entry;
• vehicle roadways and fire department access routes suitable for heavy
equipment;
• buildings on site;
• water supplies, private hydrants, public hydrants, ponds, or reservoirs;
• outdoor storage areas listing the types and quantities of materials stored at each
location;
• hazardous yard applications (i.e., compressed gas storage area, fuel dispensing
station, etc.);
• waterways, dikes, drains, sewer and manholes;
• gas shut off valves or other important isolation valves;
• electrical facilities including, power lines, transformers, transformer vaults, etc.

Auditing the Building(s)

Next, prepare a separate detailed audit for each building on site. Features to examine
and identify are (where applicable):

• the nature of building construction (combustible or non combustible);

• building size by area, (area of each storey and total area);
• number of storeys, including basements;
• use and occupancy of the building;
• fire walls, required fire separations;

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• explosion relief vents;

• fire department access points, including the principal entrance for fire department
response;
• portable fire extinguishers;
• fire alarm system;
• sprinkler system;
• fire standpipe (hose) system;
• fire department pumper connections;
• water supply control valves and fire pumps;
• exits;
• emergency power and lighting equipment;
• hazardous processing areas (identifying the nature of the process);
• storage areas (identifying type and quantities of materials stored);
• gas shut off valves or other important isolation valves;
• electrical facilities including, transformers, transformer vaults, etc.

Auditing Human Resources

Compile information about the employees on site. This will ensure that the emergency
procedures developed will be consistent with the available staff resources and be
accounted for in the plan.

• Identify the number of full time and part time employees who work on site.
• Identify the people who work on each shift, where applicable.
• Identify accommodation needs of employees (i.e., physical disabilities, language
requirements)
• Identify security personnel if provided.
• Compile a list of telephone numbers for use during an emergency, including the
building owner, the manager, supervisor, and other employees.
• Identify personnel assigned to critical tasks during emergency.

Auditing Materials Stored, Handled or Processed

Depending upon the nature of the business, a wide variety of materials may be stored,
handled or processed on site. Many materials typically processed in industrial
occupancies are stable and inert and don't pose a problem unless they become
exposed to a fire.

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Materials that pose a hazard in the event of fire include, but are not limited to:

• compressed gases – flammable, inert, corrosive, or poisonous;

• flammable/combustible liquids;
• liquid/solid chemicals, organic oils/solvents;
• reactive substances;
• oxidizing substances;
• radioactive materials
• explosives;
• plastics, any type;
• rubber, including tires, whole or shredded;
• combustible metals or metals treated with preservatives or oils;
• wood products (chemically treated or not);
• paper, cardboard;
• aerosol cans.

Refer to the following Sections in Division B of the Ontario Fire Code to determine if
activities, equipment or processes involved in the business are regulated:

• Section 3.2 – Outdoor Storage (Tires, Lumber and Forest Products, Wood Chips)
• Section 3.3 Indoor Storage (Tires, General Storage, Ammonium Nitrate,
Combustible Fibres, Matches)
• Section 3.4 – Industrial Trucks
• Section 3.5 – Salvage Shops And Salvage Yards
• Part 4 - Flammable And Combustible Liquids
• Section 5.2 – Explosives, Fireworks And Pyrotechnics
• Section 5.4 – Cellulose Nitrate Plastics
• Section 5.6 – Compressed Gas Cylinders
• Section 5.10 – Combustible Dust Producing Processes
• Section 5.11 – Hot Surface Applications
• Section 5.12 – Spray Applications Using Flammable And Combustible Materials
• Section 5.13 – Dip Tanks
• Section 5.14 – Special Processes Involving Flammable And Combustible
Materials

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• Section 5.15 – Radioactive Nuclear Substances

• Section 5.16 – Fumigation And Thermal Insecticidal Fogging
• Section 5.17 – Hot Works
• Section 5.18 – Industrial Ovens For Baking And Drying Processes

The local fire department may be consulted about questions or problems that arise
during this analysis.

Audit for Fire Hazards

One of the goals of fire safety planning is to reduce the frequency of fire. In order to
achieve this goal, fire hazards must be identified and preventative measures put in
place.

For example, ask the following questions:

(Yes the hazardous activities or substances are present)

• Are aerosols used or significant quantities stored on site?

• Are industrial truck and lift equipment, battery charging operations conducted on
site?
• Are combustible dusts, combustible fibres or combustible metals present or
produced on site?
• Are compressed gases used or stored on site?
• Are electrical installations, temporary wiring, electrical equipment or machinery
present on site that could be a potential source of ignition?
• Are flammable or combustible liquids handled, stored or used on site?
• Is heating, ventilating and/or air conditioning equipment on site?
• Are hot works activities carried out on site, including but not limited to, cutting,
welding, soldering, brazing, grinding, adhesive bonding, thermal spraying or
thawing pipes?
• Are industrial trucks and lift equipment used on site, including lift trucks or
forklifts, clamp trucks, tractors, sweepers and motorized hand trucks or automatic
guided vehicles?
• Are oxidizing or reactive substances stored or used on site?
• Are there refueling operations taking place on site? (vehicles or machinery)
• Is smoking permitted and not controlled?
• Are substances present that would be prone to spontaneous combustion?

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• Are products or materials stored or warehoused on site?

4.2 Step 2 – Appointment and Organization of Supervisory Staff

The Fire Safety Plan must also include the appointment and organization of designated
supervisory staff and alternates who are required to be trained to respond to a fire
emergency in a predetermined manner. Supervisory staff duties and responsibilities
must be outlined in the Fire Safety Plan. Person(s) designated as supervisory staff
must be qualified and willing to take on the added duties and responsibilities. Person(s)
designated as supervisory staff do not have to be from management or be a supervisor
from the company. They will need authority consistent with their assigned duties.

Employee and emergency supervisory staff responses must be well planned in order to
reduce the risks from fire. It is essential that supervisory staff understand their
responsibilities and are trained to respond to a fire emergency in a prompt, positive and
intelligent manner.

Supervisory Staff/Employee Responsibilities for Fire Safety

In order for the emergency response portion of the Fire Safety Plan to be effectively
implemented, all employees must understand the important role they play in promoting
fire safety in the workplace. Everyone must adhere to the workplace fire safety
practices and procedures. Orientation training for all employees should include fire
safety instructions on:

• what to do upon discovery of fire

• what to do upon hearing an alarm of fire
• how to prevent or minimize fire hazards in the workplace

Depending upon various factors, the Fire Safety Plan may only involve the designation
of one or two emergency response supervisory staff. In larger operations, a more
structured emergency response by designated supervisory staff may be required
including fire wardens who are trained to coordinate the evacuation of specific areas,
others who provide firefighters access and assistance and/or a fire brigade trained and
equipped to confine and extinguish a fire.

Owner/Manager Responsibilities for Fire Safety

• Ensure the Fire Safety Plan is developed, approved and fully implemented.
• Appoint, organize and train emergency supervisory staff to carry out fire safety
duties and emergency procedures.
• Ensure a sufficient number of assistants are designated and trained to act in a
supervisory capacity in the event that the appointed emergency supervisory staff
are absent from the building/site.

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• Ensure that fire drills involving all supervisory staff are held at least once a year.
• Ensure that fire hazards are identified and eliminated or controlled.
• Provide alternate measures for fire safety during the temporary shut down of fire
protection equipment or systems.
• Have the necessary checks, tests, inspections and maintenance of fire protection
equipment completed as required by the Ontario Fire Code.
• Keep permanent records of all tests and corrective measures for a period of at
least two years.
• Keep adequate records of training and fire drills for a period of at least one-year.

4.3 Step 3 – Develop Emergency Procedures

The Fire Safety Plan must include emergency procedures to be used in case of fire.
This includes:

• sounding the fire alarm;

• notifying the fire department;
• instructing occupants on procedures to be followed when the fire alarm sounds;
• evacuating endangered occupants;
• procedures for use of elevators, and
• confining controlling and extinguishing the fire.

The procedures for outdoor operations will differ from those to be followed by occupants
within buildings.

Sample of Typical Emergency Procedures for all Employees

Upon discovery of fire

• Leave the fire area immediately and assist anyone in immediate danger to
evacuate.
• Close all doors behind you to confine the fire.
• Activate the fire alarm and/or alert other staff.
• Notify the fire department. (All telephones on site should have the emergency
phone number of the fire department listed and the address of the property
conspicuously posted close by for reference in an emergency.)
• Use exit stairwells where appropriate to leave the building.

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Upon Hearing an Alarm of Fire

• Shutdown process equipment in a preplanned manner where applicable.

• Leave the building immediately.
• Close all doors behind you to confine the fire.
• Use exit stairwells where applicable to leave the building.
• If designated with fire emergency duties, carry out pre-planned procedures.

NOTE:

• Do not use the elevator(s)

• Do not re-enter the building.

Sample of Minimum Supervisory Staff Duties to be Followed in Event of Fire

• Call the Fire Department

• Provide access to the firefighters, (provide entry, master keys, etc.)
• Meet arriving firefighters
⇒ provide them with relevant information about the quantities and nature of
materials stored or processed on site
⇒ provide them with a copy of the Fire Safety Plan and related drawings
⇒ provide other assistance as required including access keys and codes, etc.
• Do not silence the fire alarm system or shut off the sprinklers until instructed to
do so by the fire department

4.4 Step 4 – Fire Drill Procedures and Training

Training and practicing fire drills must become an integral part of each facility's
preparedness. A fire emergency often generates anxiety and excitement, which may
create a stressful environment for responders and decision makers. Persons with little
training or experience may have difficulty dealing effectively with the emergency.

Fire drill procedures must be prepared in consultation with the fire department and be
outlined in the Fire Safety Plan. The fire drill must involve the response of supervisory
but should take into consideration the response of other employees and people on site
or present in the building. Having all employees participating in the fire drill will derive
significant benefit.

Supervisory staff must be instructed in the fire emergency procedures that are
described in the Fire Safety Plan before they are given any responsibility for fire safety.

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A copy of the fire emergency procedures and other duties outlined in the Fire Safety
Plan must be given to all supervisory staff.

Employees should receive training in the safe use of portable fire extinguishers and
other fire safety equipment. This would include instructions on how to activate and
reset the fire alarm system where appropriate.

Staff must be instructed to react quickly to a fire emergency. At the same time,
personal safety must be promoted.

Fire drills must be conducted at least once each year (Subsection 2.8.3. of Division B of
the Ontario Fire Code). The date and time of all fire drills, as well as the names of
participating staff, must be recorded and be retained for at least one year after the drill.

Other Factors to Consider When Organizing and Conducting Fire Drills

• Does the local fire department have to be notified of the fire drill?
• Do all employees understand the procedures they are expected to follow in an
emergency (are there language barriers, etc.)?
• Are there people who require assistance in evacuating (mobility/hearing
disabilities)?
• Are the fire drills pre-announced or a surprise?
• Are employees trained to safely shut down critical systems or equipment they are
using during an emergency in order to prevent further hazards?
• Are fire drills conducted at different times to train employees and supervisory
staff on all shifts?
• Are measures in place to respond to the safety needs of guests or contractors
during an emergency?
• Will employees practice using fire fighting and related safety equipment to
enhance their personal safety and response to a fire emergency?
• Is a procedure established to evaluate the fire drill once it has been completed
and to correct for any deficiencies noted?

4.5 Step 5 – Maintenance of Building Facilities and Fire Protection

Equipment

The Fire Safety Plan must contain a detailed schedule identifying the required checks,
inspections and tests (refer to definitions) of all fire safety systems and features
provided.

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The building owner/manager must:

• Ensure that all fire protection features provided in each building are checked,
inspected, tested and maintained in accordance with the frequencies specified in
Parts 2 and 6 of Division B of the Ontario Fire Code and all applicable referenced
standards;
• When using in-house personnel to conduct some of the checks, inspections and
tests, ensure they are fully trained and qualified to carry out the activity;
• Keep permanent records of all tests and corrective measures taken for a period
of two years after they are made. If time intervals between tests exceed two
years, the records shall be retained for the period of the test interval plus one
year. The records are to be made available upon request to the Chief Fire
Official (Subsection 1.1.2. of Division B of the Ontario Fire Code).

4.6 Step 6 – Alternate Measures for Temporary Shutdown of Fire

Protection Equipment or Systems
Alternative measures must be included in the Fire Safety Plan. The following
information outlines some examples of alternative measures. Where possible, all staff
should be made aware of temporary shutdowns.

The following practices and procedures are provided as a guide:

Temporary Shut Down of Fire Alarm System (example)

Notify all supervisory staff that the fire alarm system is temporarily shut down. A fire
watch should be appointed to conduct a sequential tour of the building in areas normally
served by fire detection devices (i.e., rooms or spaces protected by sprinklers, heat
detectors, smoke detectors or some other form of fire detection devices). Persons
conducting the fire watch would record their patrols and be provided some means of
communication to notify the fire department in the event of a fire. In the event of fire,
efforts must be taken to notify persons in the building that a fire emergency exists.

Temporary Shut Down of Standpipe System (example)

Notify all supervisory staff and the fire department that the standpipe system is
temporarily shut down.

Temporary Shut Down of Sprinkler System (example)

Notify the Fire Department (phone # ) and all supervisory staff that
the sprinkler system is temporarily shut down. The work conducted on the sprinkler
system shall be scheduled by the contractor to enable the system to be operational as
quickly as is possible in the circumstances. Full sprinkler protection shall be restored

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when work on the system is discontinued. Closed sprinkler valves shall be tagged or
marked in an approved manner. (Refer to Subsection 6.5.2. of Division B of the Ontario
Fire Code)

While the sprinklers are shut down, a fire watch should patrol the area until the sprinkler
system has been restored. “Hot works” such as welding or cutting should be prohibited
in the area where the sprinkler protection is impaired or be limited to areas where
precautions have been put into place.

Temporary Shut Down of Special Extinguishing Systems (example)

Everyone working in an area where a special extinguishing system is shut down and all
supervisory staff must be notified. The fire department should also be notified.

4.7 Step 7 – Control of Fire Hazards

The owner and/or managers must take the lead role in identifying potential fire hazards
and establishing fire prevention practices to eliminate or control the hazard(s) safely. All
employees must understand that every precaution is to be taken to minimize accidents
and prevent injuries. Employees must be fully trained in the established fire prevention
practices and these practices be adopted by everyone and be fully enforced.

The information collected while preparing the Audit of Materials Stored, Handled or
Processed (Step 1) may reveal a number of potentially hazardous activities that should
be carefully monitored and controlled. The Fire Safety Plan must contain detailed
procedures/practices for monitoring and controlling each of the activities. The fire
prevention practices should take into account the requirements of applicable regulations
and practical fire safety precautions. Employees working in these areas must be trained
to carry out the established procedures in order to reduce the risk of fire.

Procedures and training that require consideration include, but are not limited to:

Needs
Applicable Improvement
Storage and handling of aerosols;
Battery charging operations;
The presence of combustible dusts, combustible fibres
or combustible metals on site;
Storage and handling of compressed gases;
Electrical installations, temporary wiring, electrical
equipment or machinery;

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Needs
Applicable Improvement
Storage and handling of flammable or combustible
liquids;
Maintenance of heating, ventilating and/or air
conditioning equipment;
Hot work activities carried out on site involving open
flames or producing heat or sparks, including without
being limited to cutting, welding, soldering, brazing,
grinding, adhesive bonding, thermal spraying and
thawing pipes;
The use of industrial trucks and lift equipment
including lift trucks or forklifts, clamp trucks, tractors,
sweepers and motorized hand trucks or automatic
guided vehicles;
The storage and handling of oxidizing or reactive
substances;
Refueling operations (vehicles or machinery);
Controlling the hazards associated with smoking;
The storage and handling of substances that are
prone to spontaneous combustion;
Storage and warehousing practices;
Other hazardous activities.

4.8 Step 8 – Fire Department Access for Fire Fighting and Related
Fire Suppression Information
Once a fire begins, it spreads rapidly. For this reason, it is essential that the fire
department obtain access to the property as quickly as possible. A designated
employee (supervisory staff) must be trained to respond to an emergency to ensure that
the fire department can enter the property without delay to initiate fire suppression
activities. The designated employee must be knowledgeable about the property and
associated processes that take place in it.

Fire emergencies occurring after regular business hours can also lead to a delay in the
fire department’s ability to locate the fire and initiate fire suppression activities. Some
businesses and fire departments utilize a security “lock box” arrangement to reduce this
type of delay. In the absence of on-site personnel, the fire department can obtain
prompt access to keys to permit prompt entry and to other important information.

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In addition to providing access for fire fighting, the fire department may also request
other important information about the property and its contents when they arrive,
including the provision of the Fire Safety Plan, keys, access codes, etc.

For example, the fire department may request a current inventory of materials that are
stored and/or processed on site to be retained for reference during an emergency.
Many materials stored or processed on site are stable and inert, however if they
become involved in a fire, they can pose serious risks to emergency responders and to
the surrounding community. The inventory would identify the location, type and
quantities of materials present. It could also contain information about the properties of
the materials, identify the combustion by-products, fire fighting techniques and other
relevant factors. This type of information can often be obtained by referring to Material
Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) or from other sources. This information should be kept
readily available for fire department reference along with the instructions and schematic
diagrams described in Step 9. Ask the local fire department what information would be
useful to them during an emergency.

Other factors to take into consideration may include but not be limited to:

• Establish procedures for fire department notification of supervisory staff after

regular business hours.
• Identify fire department access problems that could be created due to seasonal
climatic conditions.
• Establish procedures to prevent obstructions to fire fighting created by site
machinery or due to temporary obstructions created by materials placed in aisles
or roadways.
• Establish procedures to gain access to other critical areas in a building or to fire
equipment in a shared industrial complex (i.e., gas shut off, fire protection control
valves, etc.)

4.9 Step 9 – Preparing Schematic Diagrams and Site Plans

Clause 2.8.2.1.(2)(d) of Division B of the Ontario Fire Code requires, “documents,
including diagrams, showing the type, location and operation of the building fire
emergency systems” to be prepared for use by responding supervisory staff and
firefighters during an emergency.

Where the property is large, or there are outdoor activities that may pose a fire or
access problem, a site drawing should also be prepared and incorporated in the Fire
Safety Plan. (Use the checklist provided in step one auditing your property and
building.) When preparing the schematic diagrams and site plan, ensure that the
information is useful and simple.

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Refer to Appendix A for a legend of sample symbols which could be used to standardize
the various elements that are identified on the drawings. Also remember to include a
compass type of orientation symbol (North arrow).

In addition to the schematic diagrams, an inventory of materials and a site drawing

would be extremely useful during an emergency. Information of this nature is not
required by the Ontario Fire Code, however the information would be very useful for
firefighters to refer to in the event of a fire. In some instances, municipalities may have
a by-law that requires the owner to compile and provide this type of information to the
fire department. Consult with the local fire department to determine the amount of detail
needed in the drawings that are incorporated into the Fire Safety Plan.

4.10 Step 10 – Posting Emergency Procedures and Emergency Phone

Numbers

• Every telephone should have the fire department telephone number and the
business name and address prominently posted close by for reference during an
emergency.
• The emergency procedures must be clearly posted in each storey of every
building.
• A copy of the Fire Safety Plan must be kept in a location approved by the Chief
Fire Official.
• The schematic diagrams, instructions and related information about the property
should be readily accessible to responding fire department personnel in an
emergency.
• In outdoor tire storage yards, the telephone number of the fire department and
location of the nearest telephone must be prominently posted and maintained at
the storage yard.
• A current list of emergency phone numbers should also be prepared and be
appended to the Fire Safety Plan for ease of reference during or after an
emergency.

The emergency phone number list should include but not be limited to:

• fire department
• ambulance
• police department
• owner
• manager
• fire alarm service company
• sprinkler service company

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In addition, if the business contains materials or substances that would pose a risk to
the environment or community in the event of fire, the following phone numbers should
also be kept readily available for reference during an emergency.

• The Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change, Spills Action Centre
1-800-268-6060 or 416-325-3000
• CANUTEC (Canadian Transport Emergency Centre) 1-888-226-8832 or
(613) 996-6666 (emergency)

5.0 IMPLEMENTATION / UPDATING THE FIRE SAFETY PLAN

To derive the full benefit of the Fire Safety Plan:

• Implement all aspects of the Fire Safety Plan.

• Ensure that any changes in the facility or the operation are reflected in the Fire
Safety Plan and that the Fire Safety Plan is approved by the Chief Fire Official.
• Ensure that all employees are trained in the procedures to take upon discovery of
fire or upon hearing an alarm of fire.
• Ensure that all employees are trained in the precautions and procedures required
to be taken to control and eliminate fire hazards.
• Conduct required fire drills and train the designated supervisory staff to respond
to a fire or an alarm of fire in a prompt and safe manner.
• Schedule and perform the required maintenance of the fire safety features
provided in the building as required.
• Routinely update relevant information pertaining to changes in the inventory of
site materials for the fire fighters reference during an emergency.
• At least once a year, review the contents of Fire Safety Plan to ensure that it
remains current.
• Consult with the local Chief Fire Official before making any changes to the Fire
Safety Plan.

6.0 SUMMARY
The preparation and implementation of a Fire Safety Plan, helps to assure effective use
of people and resources to control and eliminate fire hazards in the workplace and to
respond effectively to a fire emergency. This will reduce the incidence of fire, protect
life safety and reduce the impact of fire should one occur.

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Appendix A
Sample Symbols for Diagrams and Drawings
2HR
FIRE-RATED WALL (FULL BUILDING HEIGHT)

FIRE-RATED SEPARATION

2HR
FIRE-RATED SEPARATION (NOT FULL HEIGHT OF THE BUILDING)

SMOKE BARRIER (NOT RATED)

SMOKE BARRIER (NOT RATED PARTITION WALL)

SMOKE BARRIER (COMBINATION FIRE AND SMOKE BARRIER)

SWINGING FIRE DOOR

FD SLIDING/ROLLING FIRE DOOR

EXIT
EXITS

FDA
FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS POINTS

FE
ELEVATORS (FIRE FIGHTERS)

E
ELEVATORS (GENERAL)

ANN FIRE ALARM ANNUNCIATOR

FAP FIRE ALARM CONTROL PANELS

FHC STAND PIPE FIRE HOSE STATION

SP
SPRINKLER CONTROL VALVES

HYDRANTS (PRIVATE)

HYDRANTS (PUBLIC)

AS
SPRINKLERED AREAS

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FE
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

NS
NON-SPRINKLERED AREAS

FIXED EXTINGUISHING SYSTEM

APP
APPROVED FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM

FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTIONS

WATER TOWER OR TANK ABOVE GROUND – VERTICAL

WATER TOWER OR TANK ABOVE GROUND – HORIZONTAL

PRESSURE TANK

ST
ISOLATION VALVE – STANDPIPE

IV
ISOLATION VALVE

6" WATER MAINS WITH SIZE INDICATION

1 EXPLOSIVES

2 COMPRESSED GAS

3 FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS

4 FLAMMABLE SOLIDS

5 OXIDIZING SUBSTANCES

6 POISONOUS AND INFECTIOUS SUBSTANCES

7 RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS

8 CORROSIVE SUBSTANCES

9 MISCELLANEOUS

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PCB POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYL

MSDS
MATERIALS SAFETY DATA SHEET

NG
NATURAL GAS SHUT OFF VALVE

P
PROPANE SHUT OFF VALVE

O
OIL SHUT OFF VALVE

WATER SHUTOFF VALVE

EP
ELECTRICAL MAIN DISCONNECT SWITCHES OR PANEL

T
ELECTRICAL TRANSFORMER ROOMS

FIRE FIGHTING WATER DRAINAGE POINTS

VENTILATION OPENINGS

PRESSURIZED STAIRWELL

S
SMOKE SHAFT OPENING IN THE ROOF
S
SMOKE SHAFT OPENING
F.D. ACCESS

FIRE DEPARTMENT ACCESS ROUTES

EXPLOSION RELIEF WALL (DIRECTION OF EXPLOSION)

BLAST RESISTANT WALL

GEN

EMERGENCY GENERATOR

MANUAL START-UP SYSTEMS

A3