Division B: Acceptable So/uflons Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Part 6
Heatihgr Ventilating and Air-conditioning
Section 6.1. General
6.1.1. Application 6-3
6.1.2. Reserved 6-3
6.1.3. Plans and Specifications 6-3

Section 6.2. Planning

6.2.1. General 6-3
6.2.2. lncinerators,,.., 6-4
6.2.3. Solid Fuel Storage 6-4

Section 6.3 Ventilation Systems

6.3.1. Ventilation . 6-5
6,3.2. Air Duct Systems . 6-6
6.3.3. Chimneys and Venting Equipment 6-1 0
6.3.4. Ventilation for Laboratories . . . . . 6-1'l

Section 6.4. Heating Systems

6.4.1. Heating Appliances, General 6-12
6.4.2. Unit Heaters 6-12
6.4.3. Radiators and Convectors . 6-12

Section 6,5. Thermal lnsulation Systems

6.5,1. lnsulation 6-1 3

Section 6.6, Refrigeration and Gooling Systems

6.6,1. Refrigerating Systems and Equipment for Air-conditioning 6-1 3

Section 6.7 Piping Systems

6.7.1. Piping for Heating and Cooling Systems 6-1 3
6.7.2. Storage Bins . . 6-14

Section 6,8. Equipment Access

6.8.1. 0penings 6-14

Section 6.9 Fire Safety Systems

6.9.1, General 6-1 5
6.9.2. Dampers and Ductwork 6-1 5
6.9.3. Carbon MonoxideAlarms ... .. 6-1 6
6.9.4. Ash Storage 6-1 6

Section 6.10, Objectives and Functional Statements

6.10.1. Objectives and Functional Statements . . . . 6-1 6

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Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/uflons

Division B 6-2 British Columbia Building Code 2018

Division Bz Acceptable Solutions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Part 6
Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning
Section 6.1. General
6.1.{. Application
[Link]. Scope
1 ) The scope of this Part shall be as described in Subsectio n 1.3.3 . of Division A.
[Link]. Application
1) This Part applies to systems and equipment for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning seryices.

6.1 .2. Reserved

6.1.3. Plans and Specifications
6.{.3.{. Required Plans and Specifications
1) Plans, specifications and other information for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems shall
conform to Subsection 2.2.5. of Division C.

Section 6.2. Planning

(See Part 10)

6.2.1 . General
6.2.1,1. Good Engineering Practice
(See Note A-[Link].)
1) Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems, including mechanical refrigeration equipment, shall be
designed, constructed and installed in conformance with good engineering practice such as that described in, but not
limited to,
a) the ASHRAE Handbooks and Standards,

b) the HRAI Digest,

c) the Hydronics Institute Manuals,
d) the NFPA Standards,

e) the SMACNA Manuals,

f) the Industrial Ventilation Manual published by the ACGIH,
g) CSA B2l4,"Installation Code for Hydronic Heating Systems,"
h) CAN/CSA-Z3|7.2, "Special Requirements for Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC)
Systems in Health Care Facilities," and

i) EPA 6251R-921016, "Radon Prevention in the Design and Construction of Schools and Other Large
Buildings."

6.2,1.2. Outdoor Design Gonditions

1) The ourdoor conditions to be used in designing heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems shall be
determined in conformance with Subsection 1.1.3.

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Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable Solutions

2) Reserved.

3) Reserved.

[Link], Expansion, Gontraction and System Pressure

1 ) Heating and cooling systems shall be designed to allow for expansion and contraction of the heat rransfer
fluid and to maintain the system pressure within the rated working pressure limits of all components of the system.

[Link]. Structural Movement

(See Note A-[Link].)
f ) Mechanical systems and equipment shall be designed and installed to accommodare rhe maximum relarive
structural movement provided for in the construction of rhe building.

[Link]. Installation Standards

a) ExceptasprovidedinArticlesS.9.4.2.and6.3.l.5.,theinstallationofheatingandair-conditioning
equipment, including mechanical refrigeration equipment, and including provisions for mounting, clearances
and air supply, shall conform to
b) the Safery Standards Act and the following of its regulations:

i) the Gas Safery Regulation,

ii) the Electrical Safety Regulation, and
iii) the Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safery Regulation,
c) CSA B139, "Installation Code for Oil-Burning Equipment," and
d) CSA 8365, "Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment."
2) For the purposes ofClause (l)(c), a solid-fuel burning boiler accepted for use under section 10 ofthe Safery
Standards Act satisfies section 3. I of CAN/CSA-B365, "Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and
Equipment."

6.2.,t.6. lnstallation - General

1 ) Equipment requiring periodic maintenance and forming part of a heating, vendlating or air-conditioning
system shall be installed with provision for access for inspection, maintenance, repair and cleaning.
(See Note A-[Link].(l).)
2) Mechanical equipment shall be provided with guards so as to prevent injury.
3) Heating, ventiladng or air-conditioning systems shall be protected from freezing if they may be adversely
affected by freezing temperatures.

[Link]. Asbestos
1) fubestos shall not be used in HVAC systems and equipment.

6.2.2. lncinerators
6.2.2,,1. Applicable Standard
1 ) The design, construction, installation and aberation of every indoor incinerator shall conform to NFPA 82,

"Incinerators and \flaste and Linen Handling Systems and Equipment."

6.2.3. Solid Fuel Storage

[Link]. Solid Fuel Storage Bins
1 ) A storage bin for solid fuel shall not be located above a sewer opening or drain opening.
2) Storage bins for solid fuel shall be designed and constructed so that the air temperature in the bin or the
surface temperature of any part of the floor or walls is below 50"C.

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Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Section 6.3. Ventilation Systems

6.3.{. Ventilation
6.3.{.{. Required Ventilation
1 ) Except as provided in Sentence (3), all buildings shall be ventilated in accordance with this Part.
2) Except in storage garages covered byArticle [Link]., the rates at which outdoor air is supplied in buildingsby
ventilation systems shall be not less than the rates required by ANSI/ASHRAE 62, "Ventilation for Acceptable
Indoor Air Qualiry" (except Addendum n).
3) Self-contained heating-season mechanical ventilation systems serving only one dwelling unit shall
complywith
a) this Parr, or
b) Subsection 9.32.3.
4) For suites in buildings conforming to Subsection 9.36.6. or 10.2.3., the outdoor air required by Sentence (2)
shall be supplied directly to each suite by mechanical ventilation through ducting.
(See Note A-6 .3.1.1.(4).)

[Link]. Grawl Spaces and Attic or Roof Spaces

1) Unconditioned and unoccupied crawl spaces and unconditioned and unoccupied attic or roofspaces shall be
ventilated by natural or mechanical means as required by Part 5. (See Note A-[Link].(l).)

6.3.{.3. Natural Ventilation

1)Except as permitted by Sentence (2) and except as required by Sentence [Link].(4), the ventilation required
byArticle [Link]. shall be provided by mechanical ventilation, except that it can be provided by natural ventilation
or a combination of natural and mechanical ventilation in
a) buildings of othe r than residential occupancy having an occu?ant load of nor. more than one person per 40 m2
during normal use,

b) buildings of industrial occupanc! where the nature of the processes contained therein permits or requires the
use of large openings in the building envelope even during the winter, and

c) seasonal buildings not intended to be occupied during the winter.

2) \flhere climatic conditions permit, buildings containing occupancies other than residential occupancies maybe
ventilated by natural ventilation methods in lieu of mechanical ventilation where engineering data demonstrates that
such a method will provide the required ventilation for the type of occupancy.

[Link]. Ventilation of Storage Garages

1) ExceptasprovidedinSentences(4)and(6),anenclosedstoragegarageforfiveormoremotorvehiclesshall
have a mechanical ventilation system designed to

a) limit the concentration of carbon monoxide to not more than 100 parts per million parts of air,

b) limit rhe concentration of nitrogen dioxide to not more than 3 parts per million parts of air, where the
majority of the vehicles stored are powered by diesel-fuelled engines, or
c) provide, during operating hours, a continuous supply of outdoor air at a rate of not less than 3.9 Ll s for each
square metre of floor area (see Article 3 .3 .l .20.) .
(See also Sentence [Link].(4).) (See Note A-[Link].(l).)
2) Mechanical ventilation systems provided in accordance with Clause (l)(a) shall be controlled by carbon
monoxide monitoring devices, and systems provided in accordance with Clause (1)(b) shall be controlled by nitrogen
dioxide or other acceptable monitoring devices. (See Note A-[Link].(2).)
3) Mechanical ventilation systems provided in accordance with Sentence (1) shall be designed such that the
pressure in the storage garage is less than the pressure in adjoining buildings of other occupanc!, or in adjacent portions
of the same [Link] a different occupanq).

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Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/ufions

4l lnstoragegaragessubjecttotherequirementsofSentences(l)and(2),wheremotorvehiclesareparkedby
mechanical means, the ventilation requirements may be reduced by one half.
5) Except as provided in Sentence (6), ticket and attendant booths of storage garages shall be pressurized with a
supply of uncontaminated air.
6) The requirements of Sentences ( I ) to (5) shall not apply to open-air storeys in a storage garage.

6.3.{.5. Heat Recovery Ventilators

1 ) Heat recovery ventilators with rated capacities of not less than 25 Lls and not more than 200 L/s shall be

installed in accordance with Subsecti on 9.32.3.

[Link]. lndoor Air Gontaminants

(See Note A-[Link].)
1 ) Air contaminants of concern that are released within buildings shall
a) be removed insofar as is possible at their points of origin, and
b) not be permitted to accumulate in concentrations greater than those permitted by applicable provincial or
territorial requirements or, in the absence of such requirements, by good engineering practice such as that
described in the publications listed in Sentence [Link].(l), measured using the methodology
described therein.

2) Systems serving spaces that contain sources of contamination and systems serving other occupied parts of the
[Link] in or running through spaces that contain sources of contamination shall be designed in such a
manner as to prevent the spread of such contamination to other occupied parts of the building.
3) Heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems shall be designed to minimize the growth and spread of
bio-contaminants.

[Link]. Gommercial Gooking Equipment

1 )
Except as provided in Article [Link]., systems for the ventilation of commercial cooking equipment shall be
designed, constructed and installed to conform to NFPA 96, "Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of
Commercial Cooking Operations. "

6.3.2. Air Duct Systems

[Link]. Application
1 ) This Subsection applies to the design, construction and installation of air duct disribution systems serving

heating, vendlating and air-conditioning systems other than those in dwelling units covered by Part 9.

[Link]. Drain Pans

1) Dehumidifying cooling coil assemblies and condensate-producing heat exchangers shall be equipped with
drain pans beneath them that are
a) designed in accordancewith Section 5.11, Drain Pans, ofANSI/ASHRAE 62.l,"Yentilation forAcceptable
Indoor Air Qualiry,"
b) provided with an outlet that is piped to the outside of the airstream in a location where condensate can be
eliminated, and
c) installed so that water drains freely from the pan.

[Link]. Materials in Air Duct Systems

1) All ducts, duct connectors, associated fittings and plenums used in air duct systems shall be constructed of
materials as described in Article [Link].

2) Ducts that are used in a location where they may be subjected to excessive moisture shall have no appreciable
loss of strength when wet and shall be resistant to moisture-induced corrosion.

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Division B: Acceptable So/ufions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

3) All ductwork and fittings shall be constructed and installed as recommended in SMACNA Manuals and
ASHRAE Standards.
4) All duct materials shall be suitable for exposure to the temperature and humidiry of the air being carried and
shall be resistant to corrosion caused by contaminants in the air being conveyed in the duct,

[Link]. Gonnections in Air Duct Systems

1) Air duct systems shall have tight-fitting connections throughout.

[Link]. Duct Goverings and Linings

(See Note 4-[Link].)
1)
Coverings, linings and associated adhesives and insulation used in air dtcrs, plenums and other parts of air
duct systems shall comply with futicle [Link].
2) Duct linings shall be installed so that they will not interfere with the operation of volume or balancing
dampers or of fire dampers, fre stop flaps and other closures.

[Link], Glearance of Ducts and Plenums

1) TheclearanceofductsandplenumsfromcornbustiblematerialsshallcomplywithArticle3.6.5.6.

[Link]. lnterconnectionofSystems
1) In a care or residential occupanry, air from one suite shall not be circulated to any other suite or to apublic
corridor.

2)Except as permitted by Sentences (3) and [Link].(6), air duct systems serving storage garages shall not be
directly interconnected with other parts of the building.
3l Exhaust ducts rcferred to in Sentence [Link].(10) are permitted to exhaust through an enclosed storage
garage prior to exhausting to the outdoors, provided

a) the storage garage s exhaust system runs continuously,

b) the capacity of the storage garage\ exhaust system is equal to or exceeds the volume of the exhaust entering the
garage, and

c) a leakage smokeff re damper rated in accordance with CAN/ULC-S ll2.l, "Leakaee Rated Dampers for
rate 1
Use in Smoke Control Systems," is provided near the duct outlet location in the storage garage to prevent air
from the storage garage from entering the exhaust ducrwork system in the event the building's exhaust fan is
shut down.

[Link]. Makeup Air

(See Note A-[Link].)
1) In ventilating systems that exhaust air to the outdoors, provision shall be made for the admission of a supply
of makeup air in sufftcient quantity so that the operation of the exhaust system and other exhaust equipment or
combustion equipment is not adversely affected.
2) Makeup air facilities required by Sentence (1) shall be interlocked with the exhaust devices they serve so that
both operate together.
3) to introduce air directly from the outdoors to occupied parts of the
\,X/here makeup air facilities are intended
buildinginwinter, they shall incorporate means of tempering that air to maintain the indoor design temperature.

[Link]. Supply, Return, Intake and Exhaust Air Openings

1) Supply, return and exhaust air openings located less than 2 m above the floor in rooms or spaces in [Link]
shall be protected by grilles having openings of a size that will not allow the passage of a l5 mm diam sphere.
2) Outdoor air intakes shall be located so that
a) the qualiry of the air entering rhe building complies with Sentences [Link].(2) and (3), and
b) they are separated a minimum distance from sources of contaminants in accordance with TabIe [Link].

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Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/utlons

Table [Link].
Minimum Distances of Air lntakes from Sources of Gontaminants
Forming Part of Sentence 6,3.2.9.(2)
Source of Contaminants Minimum Distance of Outdoor Air lntake, m

Garage entry of a garage for 5 or more motor vehicles, automobile loading area and
4.5
drive-in queue

Truck loading area or dock, and bus parking 7.6

Driveway, street, and parking space 1.5

Thoroughfare, arterial road, freeway, and highway 7.6

Garbage storage/pick-up area and dumpsiers 4.5

Discharge from evaporative cooling tower, evaporative fluid cooler and evaporative
7,6
condenser

Sanitary vent 3.5

Kitchen cooking exhaust 3.0

Vent for combustion products 3.0

3) Outdoor air intakes shall be installed not less than 0.3 m above roofs, landscape grades or other surfaces,
taking into account anticipated snow accumulation levels.
4) Exterior openings for outdoor air intakes and exhaust outlets shall be shielded from the entry ofsnow and
rain and shall be fitted with corrosion-resistant screens of mesh having openings not larger than I 5 mm, except where
experience has shown that climatic conditions require larger openings to prevent the screen openings from icing over

5) Screens required in Sentence (4) shall be accessible for maintenance.

6l
Combustible grllles, diffusers and other devices covering supply, return, intake and exhaust openings shall
comply with Article [Link].

6.3.2.1O. Exhaust Ducts and Outlets

1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), exhaust ducts ofnon-mechanical ventilating systems serving separate
rooms or spaces shall not be combined.
2l Exhaust durts of non-mechanical ventilating systems serving similar occupancies may be combined
immediately below the point of final delivery to the outdoors, such as at the base of a roof ventilator,
3l Exhaust ductr of ventilating systems shall have provision for the removal of condensation where this may be
a problem.
4) Exhaust outlets shall be designed to prevent backdraft under wind conditions.

5)
Except as permitted in Sentence (6), exhaust systems shall discharge directly to the outdoors. (See
Note 4-[Link].(5) and (6).)
6) Exhaust systems are permitted to exhaust into a storage garage, provided

a) they serve rooms that are accessible only from that storage garage,
b) the exhaust contains no contaminants that would adversely affect the air qualiry in the storage garage
(see Note A-[Link].(6)(b)), and
c)they are designed in accordance with Sentence [Link].(3).
(See Note A-[Link].(5) and (6).)
7l Exhaux ducts connected to laundry-drying equipment shall be
a) independent ofother exhaust ducts,
b) accessible for inspection and cleaning, and
c) constructed of a smooth corrosion-resistant material.
(See Note A-[Link].(7) and (8).)

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 Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

8) \flhere collective venting of multiple installations of laundry-drying equipment is used, the ventilation
system shall

a) be connected to a common exhaust duct that is vented by one central exhaust fan and incorporates one central
Iint trap,
b) include an interlock to activate the central exhaust fan when laundry-drying equipment is in use, and
c)be provided with make-up air.
(See Note A-[Link].(7) and (8).)
9l Exhaust dulrr or vents connected to laundry-drying equipment shall discharge directly to the outdoors.

10) Except as provided in Sentence (I2) and except for self-contained systems serving individual dwellingunits,
exhaust ducts serving rooms containing water closets, urinals, basins, showers or slop sinks shall be independent of
other exhaust ducts.
1 1) Except as provided in Sentence (12) and except for self-contained systems serving individual duelling units,

exhau$ ducts serving rooms containing residential cooking equipment shall be independent of other exhaust ducts.
12) TwoormoreexhaustsystemsdescribedinSentences(10)and(11)maybeinterconnectedorconnectedwith
exhaust ducts serving other areas of the building, provided
a) the connections are made at the inlet of an exhaust fan, and all interconnected systems are equipped with
suitable back pressure devices to prevent the passage of odours from one system to another when the fan is
not in operation, or
b) the exhaust ducts discharse to a shaft that is served by an exhaust fan having a capacity that is equal to or
greater than the combined capacity of the exhaust fans dischargingto the plenunt mtltiplied by the operation
diversiry factor, provided that the exhaust fan serving the shaft operates continuously (see
Note A.-6.3.2. 10.(l2Xb)).
1 3) \Mhere exhaust ducts containing air from conditioned spaces pass through or are adjacent to unconditioned
spaces, the ducts shall be constructed to prevent condensation from forming on the inside or outside ofthe ducts.

[Link], Return-Air System

1 ) Return-air systems shall comply with Article [Link].
2) Vhere a ceiling space is used as a retwn-air plenum, the requirements of Ardcle [Link]. shall apply.

3l A public corridor or exit shall not be used as a return-air plenum.

[Link]. Underground Ducts
1) Underground ducts shall
a) be constructed and installed to provide interior drainage from and access to all low points,
b) not be connected directly to a sewer, and
c) be installed and constructed of materials recommended by ASHRAE and SMACNA Standards and HRAI
Manuals.
2) A clean-out or pump-out connection shall be provided in an underground duct system at every low point of
the duct system.

6.3.2.{3. Filters
1) Air filters for air duct systems shall conform to the requirements for Class 2 air filter units as described in
CAN/ULC-S111, "Fire Tests for Air Filter Units."
2) \Vhen elecrrostatic-rype filters are used, they shall be installed so as to ensure that the electric circuit is
automatically de-energized when filter access doors are opened or, in dwelling units, when rhe furnace circulation fan
is not operating.

I [Link]. Reserved

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Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/uflons

6.3.2.{5. Evaporative Gooling Towers, Evaporative Fluid Goolers and

Evaporative Gondensers
1) Discharge from evaporative cooling towers to ventilation air intakes shall comply with

a) Sentence [Link].(2), and

b) CAN/CSA-2317 .2, "Special Requirements for Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC)
Systems in Health Care Facilities."
2) The distance benveen the air intakes ofevaporative cooling towers, evaporative fluid coolers and evaporative
condensers in relation to kitchen exhaust outlets, vegetation or other sources oforganic matter shall be not less
than 4.6 m.

3) Make-up water connections shall be equipped with backflow prevention devices that conform to
Article [Link]. of Division B of the Book II. (Plumbing Systems). of this code.
4) \flater treatment equipment for biological growth control shall be provided in accordance with
Sub-Section 7.6.2. of ASHRAE Guideline 12, "Minimizing the fusk of Legionellosis Associated with Building
'S7'ater
Systems."

5) Drains, overflows and blow-downs shall be connected to the building's drainage system in accordance with
Claurrc2.4.2.L (1)(e) of Division B of the Book II. (Plumbing Systems). of this code.
6) Evaporative cooling towers, evaporative fluid coolers and evaporative condensers shall be provided with access
ports, service platforms, fixed ladders and restraint connections to allow visual inspection, maintenance and testing.

[Link]. Evaporative Air Goolers, Misters, Atomizers, Air Washers and Humidifiers
1) The fflter and water evaporation medium of every air washer and evaporative air cooler enclosed within a
building shall be made of noncombustibh material.
2) Sumps for air washers and evaporative air coolers shall be constructed and installed so that they can be flushed
and drained.
3) Evaporative air coolers, misters, atomizers, air washers and humidifiers shall be designed in accordance with
Sections 8 and 9 of ASHRAE Guideline 12, "Minimizing the Risk of Legionellosis Associated with Building
\Vater Systems."

6.3,2.17. Fans and Associated Air-Handling Equipment

1) Fans for heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems shall be located and installed so that their operation
a) does not adversely affect the draft required for proper operation of fuel-fired appliances, and
b) does not allow the air in the duct system to be contaminated by air or gases from the boiler room or
furnace room.
2) Fans and associated air-handling equipment, such as air washers, filters and heating and cooling units, when
installed on the roof or elsewhere outside the building, shall be of a rype designed for outdoor use.

6.3.2.{8. VibrationlsolationGonnectors
1) Vibration isolation connectors in air duct systems shall comply with Article [Link].

6.3.2.{9. Tape
1 ) Tape used for sealing joints in air ducts, p lenums and other parts of air duct systems shall comply with
Article [Link].

6.3.3. Ghimneys and Venting Equipment

6.3.3.{. Requirement for Venting
1) Except as provided in Articles [Link]. and6.3.3.3., the products of combustion from oil-, gas- and
solid-fuel-burning appliancer shall be vented in conformance with the requirements in the applicable a?pliance
installarion standard listed in Ardcle [Link].

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Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

2) Except as provided in Article [Link]., vented products of combustion, other than those referred to in
Sentence (l), shall be discharged away from the building, so as not to re-enter it, to a distance not less than
a) 2.15 m above sidewalks and driveways,
b) a - from outdoor air intakes,
c) 3 m horizontally or vertically from doors and operable windows, and
d) 3 m horizontally or vertically from occupiable outdoor spaces, excluding maintenance spaces.
(See Note A-[Link].(2).)

[Link]. Masonry or Goncrete Ghimneys

1 ) Rectangul at lnasonry or concrete chimnel,s not more than l2 m in height shall conform to Part 9 if they serve
a) appliances wirh a combined total rated heat outpur of 120 kW or less, or

b) fireplaces.
2l Masonry or conoete chimneys other than those described in Sentence (1) shall be designed and installed in
conformance with the appropriate requirements in NFPA 211, "Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid
Fuel-Burning Appliances. "

[Link]. Metal Smoke Stacks

1 )
Single wall metal smoke stacks shall be designed and installed in conformance with NFPA 21 1, "Chimneys,
Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-BurningAppliances."

[Link]. Access Ladders

1) Access ladders for chimnqts, when provided, shall consist of steel or bronze rungs, built into the walls of the
chimneys.

2) Rungs for external ladders shall begin at not less than 2.5 m from ground level.

6.3.4. Ventilation for Laboratories

6.3.4.{. Application
1) This Subsection applies to laboratories where dangerous goods, includingJlammable liquids and combustible
liquids, are used in normal laboratory operations in quantities or in a manner that creates a fire or explosion hazard.

[Link]. General Ventilation

1) A laboratory shall be provided with continuous mechanical ventilation designed to ensure that dangerous
goods vapours and particles

a) do not accumulate in the laboratory,

b) are prevented from migrating to other parts of the building,
c) do not accumulate in the ventilation system,
d) are exhausted to the outdoors, and
e) are not returned to rhe building.
2) A ventilation system required by this Subsection shall be provided with monitoring devices to
a) indicate that the vendlation system is in operation, and
b) sound an alarm if the ventilation system is malfunctioning.
3) A ventilation system required by this Subsection shall be maintained in conformance with Article [Link]. of
Division B of the British Columbia Fire Code.

[Link]. Enclosure Exhaust Ventilation

1 ) The ventilation system for a power-ventilated enclosure required by Sentence 5 .5 .4.2.(l) of Division B of the
British Columbia Fire Code shall

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Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/ufions

a) conform to NFPA 9I , "Exhaust Systems for Air Conveying of Vapors, Gases, Mists, and Noncombustible
Particulate Solids,"
b) provide conrinuous exhaust ventilation at an air velocity sufficient to prevent the accumulation of combustible
or reacrive deposits in the power-ventilated enclosure and its exhaust duct system,
c) confine dangerous goods vapours and particles to the area where they are generated and exhaust them to the
outdoors,
d) not return the exhausted air to the building, and
e) be provided with well identified control switches that are
i) located outside of the power-ventilated enclosure, and
ii) readily accessible in case of an emergency.

[Link]. Enclosure Gonstruction

1)The power-ventilated enclosure required by Sentence [Link].(l) of Division B of the British Columbia Fire
Code and irs exhaust ducr system shall

a) except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), be constructed of noncornbustible materials compatible with and
chemically resistant to the dangerous goods vapours and particles being exhausted, and
b) be provided with access doors to permit inspection and maintenance of the fan assembly and exhaust ducts.

2l Combustible marerials are permitted in systems described in Clause (1)(a) if

a) such materials are required by the corrosive or reactive properties of the dangerous goods being used, and

6) their flame+pread rating is not more than 25.

3l The [Link]+pread rating required by Sentence (2) is permitted to be greater than 25 if an automatic fire
suppression system is provided inside the power-ventilated enclosure and its exhaust duct system.

Section 6.4. Heating Systems

6.4.1. Heating Appliances, General
[Link]. Location of Appliances
1 ) Except for appliances installed in dwelling units, ftel-ftred heating a??lidnces shall be located, enclosed or
separatedfromtheremainder of thebuildinginconformancewithSection3.6. (SeealsoSubsection9.10.l0.)

[Link]. Appliances Installed Outside the Building

1) Fuel-fired appliances installed outside a buildingshall be designed and constructed for outdoor use.

6.4.2. Unit Heaters

[Link]. Glearances
1) Every unit heater using either steam or hot water as the heating medium shall be installed such that the
clearances berween the appliance and adjacent combustible material conform to Table [Link].

6.4.3. Radiators and Gonvectors

[Link]. Lining or Backing
1l A noncombustible lining or backing shall be provided for every steam or hot water radiator and convector
a) located in a recess or concealed space, or

b) attached to the face of a wall of combustible construction.

2) Every sream or hot water radiator and convector shall be installed so as to conform to the clearance
requirements of Table [Link].

Division B 6-12 British Columbia Building Code 2018

 Division B: Acceptable So/uflons Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Section 6.5. Thermal lnsulation Systems

6.5.{. lnsulation
6.5.,1.,1. lnsulation and Goverings
(See Note 4-[Link].)

) 1 Insulation and coverings on pipes shall comply with Ardcle 3.6.5 .5 .

2) Insulation and coverings on pipes shall be composed of material that will withstand deterioration from
softening, melting, mildew and mould at the operating temperature of the system.
3) Exposed piping or equipment subject to human contact shall be insulated so that the temperature of the
exposed surface does not exceed 70'C. (See Note A-[Link].(3).)

Section 6,6. Refrigeration and Gooling Systems

6.6.{, Refrigerating Systems and Equipment for Air-conditioning
6.6.{.1. Gooling Units
\Where a cooling unit is combined with a fuel-fired
1 ) furnace in the same duct system, the cooling unit shall be
installed
a) in parallel with the hearingfurnace,
b) upstream of thefurnace provided thefurnace is designed for such application, or
c) downstream of the furnace provided the cooling unit is designed to prevent excessive temperature or pressure
in the refrigeration system.

)
Section 6.7. Piping Systems
6.7.1. Piping for Heating and Gooling Systems
[Link]. Piping Materials and lnstallation
1 ) Piping shall be made from materials designed to withstand the effects of temperatures and pressures that may

occur in the system. (See Articles [Link].,[Link].,[Link]. and9.10.9.7. for fire safery requirements.)
2l Every pipe used in a heating or air-conditioning system shall be installed to allow for expansion and
contraction due to temperature changes.
3) Supports and anchors for piping in a heating or air-conditioning system shall be designed and installed to
ensure that undue stress is not placed on the supporting structure.

[Link]. Glearances
1 ) Clearances berween combustible material and bare pipes carrying steam or hot water shall conform to
Table [Link].

Table [Link].
Glearance Between Steam or Hot Water Pipes and Combustible Material
Forming Part of Articles [Link]. and 6.7.1 .2., and Sentence [Link].(2)
oC
Steam or Water Temperature, Minimum Clearance, mm

Up to 95 No clearance

Above 95 to 120 15

Above 120 25

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-13

Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/uflons

6.7.{.3. Surface Temperature

1 ) The exposed surface temperature of a steam or hot water radiator shall not exceed 70'C unless precautions are

taken to prevent human contact. (See Note A.-[Link].(3).)

[Link]. Protection
1) \iflhere a pipe carrying steam or hot water at a temperature above 120'C passes through a combustible floor,
ceiling or wall, the construction shall be protected by a sleeve of metal or other noncombustible material not less than
50 mm larger in diameter than the pipe.

[Link]. Piping in Shafts

1) \Vhere piping for heating or air-conditioning systems is enclosed in a shaft, the requirements of
Article 3.6.3.I. for shafts shall apply.

6.7,2. Storage Bins

[Link]. Storage Bins
1) Service pipes passing through a storage bin for solid fuel shall be protected or so located as to avoid damage to
the pipes.
2) Except for fuel-thawing pipes, every pipe designed to operate at a temperature of 50"C or above shall be
located where solid fuel cannot be stored in contact with it.

Section 6.8. Equipment Access

6.8.{. Openings
6.8.{.{. Access Openings
1) A"y covering ofan access opening through which a person could enter shall be openable from the inside
without the use ofkeys where there is a possibiliry of the opening being accidentally closed while the system or
equipment is being serviced.

[Link]. Openings in Air Duct Systems

1) Air duct systems shall have no openings other than those required for the proper operation and maintenance
of the system.
2) Access openings shall be provided in duct systems to allow the removal of material that may accumulate in
plenums and ducts.

6.8.{.3. Odour Removal Equipment

1) \(hen odour removal equipment of the adsorption rype is used, it shall be
a) installed to allow access so that adsorption material can be reactivated or renewed, and
b) protected from dust accumulation by air filters installed on the inlet side.
2) Facilities for flushing and drainage shall be provided where filters are designed to be washed in place.

Division B 6-14 British Columbia Building Code 2018

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Section 6.9. Fire Safety Systems

6.9.{. General
6.9.,1.{. Fire Safety Requirements
1) The fire safery characteristics of heating, ventilating and air-conditioning systems shall comply with
Subsection 3.6.5.

2) Characteristics referred to in Sentence (1) include but are not limited to

a) use of combustible materials in duct systems,

b) flame+pread ratings and smoke-developed ratings of duct and pipe materials and coverings,
c) installation of equipment relative to properry lines, and
d) requireme nts for fre dampers and fire stop flaps.
6.9.{.2. Hazardous Gases, Dusts or Liquids
1) Except as provided in Subsection 6.3.4., sysrems serving spaces that contain hazardous gases, dusts or liquids
shall be designed, constructed and installed to conform to the requirements ofthe applicable provincial or territorial
regulations or municipal bylaws or, in the absence ofsuch regulations or bylaws, to good engineering practice such as
that described in the publications of the National Fire Protection Association and in the British Columbia Fire Code.
(See Note A'-6.9. 1.2.(l).)

2) \XZlrenindoor piping for Class I flammable liquids is installed in a trench, the trench shall be
a) provided with positive ventilation to the outdoors, or
b) designed to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapours.

6.9.{.3. Gommercial Gooking Equipment

1) Fire protection systems for commercial cooking equipment referred to in Sentence 6.3.I.7.(l) using vegetable
oil or animal fat shall conform to
a) ANSI/UL 300, "Fire Testing of Fire Extinguishing Systems for Protection of Commercial Cooking
Equipment," or
b) ULC/ORD -CI254.6, "Fire Testing of Restaurant Cooking Area Fire Extinguishing System Units."

6.9,2. Dampers and Ductwork

6.9,2.1. Fire Dampers
1l Fire dampers shall conform to Article [Link].

6.9,2.2. Smoke Detectors

1) Air handling systems shall incorporate smoke drtectors where and as required by Article 3.2.4.I2.

[Link]. Exhaust Ducts and Outlets

1) lVhere an exhaust ducl system is used for smoke removal in a high building, the requirements of
Article [Link]. shall apply.
2) Vhere exhaust duct systems from more than onefire compartment are connected to an exhaust duct in a
vertical sewice space, the requirements ofArticle [Link]. shall apply.

[Link]. Ducts in Exits

1 ) \,X/here ducts penetrate fire separatiozs separating exits from the remainder of the building, they shall be in
accordance with Article [Link].

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-15

Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable Solutions

6.9.3. Garbon Monoxide Alarms

[Link]. Garbon Monoxide Alarms
1) This Article applies to every building that contains a residrntial occupanc!, a care occa?ancy with individual
suites, or a care occapanrT containing sleeping rooms not within a suite, and that also contains
a) a fuel-burningappliance, or
6) a storage garage.

2) Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms required by this Article shall

a) conform to CAN/CSA-6.19, "Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,"
b) with an integral alarm that satisfies the audibiliry requirements of CAN/CSA-6. 19, "Residential
be equipped
Carbon Monoxide AJarming Devices, "
c) have no disconnect switch berween the overcurrent device and the CO alarm, where the CO alarm is
powered by the electrical system serving the suite (see Note A-[Link].(2)(c)), and
d) be mechanically fixed at a height above the floor as recommended by the manufacturer.
3) Vhere a fuel-burning appliance is installed in a suite of residential occu?dnc! or in a suite of care occupancy, a
CO alarm shall be installed
a) inside each bedroom, or
b) outside each bedroom, within 5 m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors and doorways.
4) \X/here a fuel-burning appliance is installed in a seruice room that is not in a suite of residential occupancy nor in
a suite of care occapanqt, a CO alarm shall be installed
a) either inside each bedroom, or if outside, within 5 m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors
and doorways , in every suite of residzntial occu?anqt or suite of care occupancy that shares a wall or floor/ceiling
assembly with the seruice room, and

b) in the seraice room.

5) For each suiteof residential occupancy or suite of care occu?anc! that shares a wall or floor/ceiling assembly with
a storage garage or that is adjacent to an attic or crawl space to which the storage garage is also adjacent, a CO alarm
shall be installed

a) inside each bedroom, or

b) outside each bedroom, within 5 m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors and doorways.

6.9.4. Ash Storage

[Link]. Ash Storage Bins
1) Every ash storage bin shall be constructed of noncombustible material
2l Every opening in an ash storage bin shall be protected by a tight-fitting metal door with metal frame securely
fastened to the bin.

[Link]. Fireplaces
1) Fireplaces shall conform to the requirements of Section9.22.

Section 6.{0. Objectives and Functional Statements

6.{ O.{. Objectives and Functional Statements
6.{ O.1.{ . Attributions to Acceptable Solutions
1) For the purpose of compliance with this Code as required in Clause [Link].(l)(b) of Division A, the
objectives and functional statements attributed to the acceptable solutions in this Part shall be the objectives and
functional statements listed in Table [Link]. (See Note A-[Link].(1).)

Division B 6-16 British Columbia Building Code 2018

Division B: Acceptable So/ufions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Table [Link].
Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions in Part 6
Forming Part of Sentence [Link].(1)
Functional Statements and Objectives(t)

6,2.1.1. Good Engineering Practice

(1) (a) to (e) [F31,F51-0P1.1]

(a) to (c) and (e) to (i) IF40,F50,F51,F52,F54,F63-0H1.11

(a),(b),(c),(e),(f),(s),(h) [F50,F51,F52,F54,F63-oH1.2,0H1.3]

1F31,F50,F51,F52,F54,F63-053.2,OS3.41

(d)[F01-0s1.1]

6,2.1.3. Expansion, Contraction and System Pressure

(1) 1F20.0s3.21

[Link], Structural Movement

(1) lF23-OS3.1l

1F51,F63,F50-0H1.1,0H1.2,0H1.31

[Link]. lnstallation Standards

(1) lF43-0S1.11

lF43-0S3.41

lF43-OP1.1l

[Link]. lnstallation - General

(1) lF82-OS1.1l

lF82-OS3.4l

lF82-0P1.11

(2) lF31-0S3.1I

(3) lF81 -0S3.2,0S3.3,OS3.41

lF81-OS1.1l

[Link]. Asbestos

(1) 1F43,0H1.11

[Link]. Applicable Standard

(1) lF81-OS1.1l

[Link], Solid FuelStorage Bins

(1) lF30-oH2.1l

(2) lF01-0s1.1I

lFo1-0P1.11

[Link]. Required Ventilation

(1) 1F50,F31,F63,F51,F54,F52-0S1.1 l

1F50,F31,F63,F51,F54,F52-0P1.1 l

(2) lF50-0H1.11

(4) lF50-0H1.11

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-17

Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Tabfe [Link]. (continued)

Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions in Part 6
Forming Part of Sentence [Link].(1)
Functional Statements and Objectives{t)

[Link]. Grawl Spaces and Attic or Roof Spaces

(1) 1F61,F63,F41-0H1.1,OH1.3I

6.3.1,3. Natural Ventilation

(1) lF50-0H1.11

(2) lF50-oH1.1I

[Link]. Ventilation of Storage Garages

(1) 1F50,F44-0S3.41

(2) lF44-0S3.41

(3) lF44-OS3.4l

(4) 1F50,F44-0S3.41

(5) 1F50,F44-0H1.11

1F50,F44-OS3.4l

[Link]. lndoor Air Contaminants

(1) lF44-0S3.41

[F44.OH1.1l

(2) lF44-OH1.1l

(3) lF52-0H1.11

6.3,1.7. Commercial Gooking Equipment

(1) 1F01,F44-OS1.1l

1F01,F44-OP1.1l

6,3.2,2. Drain Pans

(1) lF41 ,F44,F50-OH1 .11

6.3,2.3. Materials in Air Duct Systems

(2) 1F20,F80-0H1. 1,0H1.21

(3) 1F81,F44-0S3,4I

lF81-0H1.11

(4) 1F20,F80-0H1. 1,0H1.21

[Link]. Connections in Air Duct Systems

(1) lF81-0H1.1,0H1.21

1F81,F44-0S3.41

6.3,2.5, Duct Goverings and Linings

(2) lF81-0H1.1,0H1.21

lF81-0S1.11

lF81-0P1.1I

[Link], lnterconnection of Systems

(1) lF44-OS1.1l

lF4o-oH1,1l

Division B 6-18 British Columbia Building Code 2018

 Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Table [Link]. (continued)

Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions in Part 6
Forming Part of Sentence [Link] .(1)
/)
Functional Statements and Objective5lt)

(2) 1F81,F44-OH1.1l

lF81 ,F44-0S1.'rl

lF81 ,F44-0P1.11

(3) 1F81,F44-0H1.11

6,3.2,8, Makeup Air

(1) 1F50,F81-OH1.1l

1F44,F81-OS3.4l

(2) lF81-OH1.1l

1F81,F44-0S3.41

(3) lF81-OH1.2l

[Link]. Supply, Return, lntake and Exhaust Air Openings

(1) lF30-os3.1l

lF81-OH1.2l

(2) 1F44,F81-0H1,11

1F81,F44-OS3.4l

(3) 1F44,F81-OH1.1l

1F44,F81-OS3.4l

(4) lF81-OH1.1l

(5) 1F82,F81-OH1.1l

lF82-OS3.4l

[Link]. Exhaust Ducts and Outlets

(1) lF44-OH1.1l

(2) [F44-OH1.1l

(3) lF81-OH1.1l

lF81-OH1.2l

(4) lF81-OH1.1I

lF81-OH1.2l

(5) lF81-0H1.11

(6) lF81-OH1.1l

(7) lF81-OS1.1l

(8) 1F40,F44, F50, F52-OH1 .1l

lF01-os1.1l

lFo1-oP1.1l
(e) 1F40, F44,F50,F52-OH1.1l

lF01-os1.1l

lF01-oP1.1l
(1 0) lF81-OH1.1l

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-19

Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/ufions

Tabfe [Link]. (continued)

Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions in Part 6
Forming Part of Sentence 6.1 0.1 .1 .(1 )
Functlonal Statsments and Objectivestt)

(1 1) 1F81,F44-0H1.11

1F81,F44-0S1.11

(12) 1F81,F44-0H1.11

(1 3) lF81-0H1.21

1F81,F44-0H1.11

6.3.2.'11. Return-Air System

(3) lF10-0s1.51

[Link]. Underground Ducts

(1) (a) [F44,F81-OH1 .2,0H1 .3]

(b)[F44,F81-0H1.1]

(c) [F44,F81-0H1.1]

(2) lF81-OH1.1,0H1.2,OH1.31

[Link]. Filters

(1) lF80-0s1.11

lF80-0P1.11

(2) lF30-os3.3l

1F81,F43-0H1.11

6.3,2.15. Evaporative Gooling Towers, Evaporative Fluid Coolers and Evaporative Condensers

(1) 1F41,F44-0H1.11

(2) 1F41,F44-OH1.1l

(3) 1F46,F81-0H2.21

(4) 1F41,F44-OH1.1l

1F46,F81-OH2.2l

(5) lF81-OH2.1l

(6) [F82-OH1.1l

6,3.2.16. Evaporative Air Coolers, Misters, Atomizers, Air Washers and Humidifiers

(1) 1F80,F81-OS1.1l

1F80,F81-OP1.1l

(2) [F82-OH1.1l

(3) lF44-0H1.11

[Link]. Fans and Associated [Link] Equipment

(1) 1F81,F44-OH1.1l

1F81,F44-0S3.41

(2) lF81-OH1.1l

[Link]. Requirement for Venting

(2) 1F40,F44,F50-OH1 .11

Division B 6-20 British Columbia Building Code 2018

 Division B: Acceptable So/uflons Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Table [Link]. (continued)

Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions in Part 6
Forming Part of Sentence [Link].(1)
Functional Statements and Objectlvestt)

6.3.3,2. Masonry or Concrete Ghimneys

(2) [F01-0s1.1]

lFO1-0P1.11

[Link]. Metal Smoke Stacks

(1) lF01-0s1.11

lFo1-0P1.11

6,3.3.4, Access Ladders

(1) 1F20,F80-0s3.11

(2) lF30-os3.1l

[Link]. General Ventilation

(1) (a),(b),(d),(e) [F01 -oS1.1 ]

(c) [F02-0P1.2]

(c) [F02-0S1.2] [F81,F82-0s1.1]

(2) [F11,F81-OS1.1l

6.3.4,3. Enclosure Exhaust Ventilation

(1) (a),(c),(d) [F01 -oS1 .1 ]

(b)[F02-0P1.2]
) (e) [F12-0P1.1,0P1.2]

(a) [F02-0P1.2]

(b) [F02-0s1.2] [F81-0S1.1]

(e) [F12-0S1.1,0S1.2]

(a) [F02-0S1.2]

(a)[F01-0S1.1]

[Link]. Enclosure Gonstruction

(1) (a) [F02-OS1 .2] Applies to portion of Code text: "... be constructed of noncombustible materials . .."

(b)[F02-0P1.2]

(a) [F02-0P1 .2] Applies to portion of Code text ".,. be constructed of noncombustible materials ..."

(a) [F80-0S3.4] Applies to portion of Code text: ". . . be constructed of . .. materials . . . chemically resistant to the dangerous goods vapours and
particles being exhausted ..."

(b) [F02-0s1.2] [F82-0S1.1]

(a) [F80-0S1.1] Applies to portion of Code text: "... be constructed of ... materials .,, chemically resistant to the dangerous goods vapours and
particles being exhausted ..."

(a) [F01-0S1.1] Applies to portion of Code text: "... be constructed of ... materials compatible with ... the dangerous goods vapours and
particles being exhausted ..."

(3) lF02-0s1.21

lF02-0P1.21

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-21

Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Table 6.1 0.1.1. (continued)

Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions in Part 6
Forming Part of Sentence [Link].(1 )
Functional Statements and Objectives(t)

[Link], Appliances lnstalled Outside the Building

(1) lF81-0P1.11

lF81-OH1,1l

lF81-OS1.1I

[Link]. Clearances

(1) lF01-oP1.1l

lF01-os1.1l

[Link], Lining or Backing

(1) lF01-os1.1l

lF01-oP1.1l
(2) lF01-os1.1I

[Link]. lnsulation and Coverings

(2) 1F20, F30-OS3.2,OS3.41

(3) lF31-OS3.2l

6.6,1.1. Cooling Units

(1) 1F43,F81-OS3.4l

[Link]. Piping Materials and lnstallation

(1) lF20-0s3.2,0s3.41
(2) lF21-OH1.1l

(3) lF20-0s2.21

[Link]. Glearances

(1) lF01-os1.1l

lF01-oP1.1l

[Link], Surface Temperature

(1) lF31-0S3.21

[Link]. Protection

(1) lF01-os1.1l

lF01-oP1.1l

[Link], Storage Bins

(1) 1F30, F31,F43-0S3.2,0S3.41

(2) lF01-os1.1l

lF01-oP1.1l

[Link]. Access Openings

(1) lF36-0S3.61

[Link]. Openings in Air Duct Systems

(1) lF81-OH1.1,OH1.21

1F81,F44-OS3.4l

Division B 6-22 British Columbia Building Code 2018

Division B: Acceptable So/ufions Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Table [Link]. (continued)

Objectives and Functional Statements Attributed to the Acceptable Solutions in Part 6
Forming Part of Sentence 6.1 0.1 .1 .(1 )
Functional Statements and Objectives{r)

(2) lF82-0S1.11

6.8,1.3, Odour Removal Equipment

(1) lF82-0H1.11

(2) lF82-0H1.11

[Link]. Hazardous Gases, Dusts or Liquids

(1) lFO1-0P1.11

lF01-0s1.11

(2) lF01-0s1.11

lFo1-0P1.11

[Link]. Commercial Cooking Equipment

(1) 1F02,F81-OS1.2l

1F02,F81-OP1.2l

[Link]. Garbon Monoxide Alarms

(2) (a),(b),(d) [F44-0S3.4]

(c)[F81-oS3.a]

(3) lF44-0S3.41

(4) lF44-0S3.41

(5) lF44-0S3.41

[Link]. Ash Storage Bins

(1) lF01-os1,1l

lF01-oP1.1l

(2) lF01-os1.1l

lFo1-0P1.11

Notes to Table 6,10,1.1.:

('l) See Parts 2 and 3 of Division A.

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-23

Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/ufions

Division B 6-24 British Columbia Building Code 2018

Division Bt Acceptable Solutions Notes to Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

Notes to Part 6
Heatihgr Ventilating and Air-conditioning
A-[Link]. Good Engineering Practice.
Building Pressurization
New buildings tend to be considerably more airdght than older ones. Consequently, these buildings may have a reduced
pressurization requirement compared to the normal requirement in order to limit drafts and provide a reasonable level of comfort.
The humidification and relative pressurization of buildings and individual spaces in buildings can be significant factors in
compromising the ongoing performance of the building envelope and other environmental separators.
In new construction, HVAC designers should take this issue into consideration and confer with those responsible for the design of
the environmental separators so as to limit unintended effects on the environmental separators. In existing buildings, the abiliry of
the environmental separators to resist or accommodate increases in pressure differential or moisture loading should be considered
before changes are made to the HVAC system.

Radon Control
Measures may be necessary to reduce the radon concentration to a level below the guideline specified by Health Canada.

Further information on reducing the indoor concentration of radon can be found in the following Health Canada publications:
. "Guide for Radon Measurements in Public Buildings (Schools, Hospitals, Care Facilities, Detention Centres)," and
. "Radon: A Guide for Canadian Homeowners."

A-6.2.1 .2.(21 Outdoor Design Gonditions. In the past, the practice of ventilating buildings with outdoor air assumed that
the outdoor air was of better qualiry than the indoor air. It has become evident that the outdoor air in some areas of Canada may not
be of an acceptable qualiry for ventilating buildings unless certain particles and gases are first removed or reduced. For particulate
matter, the maximum acceptable level is the 98th percentile of the average 24hov values; for ozone, the maximum acceptable level is
the average of the average 8 hour values. A recent estimate suggests that many Canadians are exposed to contaminated outdoor air via
buildings' ventilation systems, which may lead to health problems such as cardiovascular and cerebral vascular diseases, respiratory
irritation and illnesses, asthma, allergies, cancer, mucus membrane disorders and possibly death.
In order to manage the air quality of a building's indoor environment, thus reducing the potential for adverse effects on occupants'
health, the qualiry of outdoor air for building ventilation purposes must be addressed. The air pollutants for which standards have been
developed are particulate matter and ground-level ozone. Senten ce [Link].(2) sets limits on the maximum acceptable levels of these
particles and gas that a building's ventilation system should introduce direcdy to the indoor environment. These limits form part of the
Canada-wide Standards for Particulate Matter (PM) and Ozone, which were established pursuant to the 1998 Canada-wide Accord on
Environmental Harmonization of the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment (CCME) and its Canada-wide
Environmental Standards Sub-Agreement. Information on related regulations is available from Environment Canada and the
provincial/territorial ministries of the environment. A database of particle measurements for certain Canadian locations is available
from the National Air Pollution Surveillance Nerwork (NAPS), which is run by Environment Canada in conjunction with the
provinces and territories. (See Subsection 1.3.2. for contact information for CCME, Environment Canada and NAPS.)

A-6.2.'l .4. Structural Movement. This Article is intended to remind designers and installe rs of mechanical systems of one
aspectof the "good engineering practice" referred to in Article 6.2.L.I.
In determining how to accommodate structural movement, there are rwo important principles to bear in mind:
. The prime concern of the British Columbia Building Code is the safety of people in and around the building, as opposed to
protection of the mechanical systems and equipment.
. The nature of the accommodation will vary with the type of movement being considered, taking into account particularly how
often the movement is likely to be encountered over the life of the building.
For example, a gas line supported on columns that also support a crane must be installed in such a way that the movement of the
columns, which occurs many times daily, does not cause the lines to break, thus creating ahazard. Even if the gas line installation could
somehow be designed to break in a non-hazardous manner, it would hardly be recognized as good engineering practice if movement
that occurs so frequently could disrupt the operation of the mechanical system.

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-25

Notes to Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable Solutions

On the other hand, earthquakes occur far less frequently and it would not be surprising to have a non-critical mechanical system fail as
a result of an earthquake. However, even in this situation, the failure must occur in a manner that does not create ahazard to building
occupanrs. For example, heavy mechanical equipment should be properly anchored so that it does not topple on building occupants
during an earthquake. The design of the anchors should take into account accelerations consistent with the seismic data given in
Appendix C for the location of the buildin g. Parr 4 provides guidance on the calculation of the loads such equipment would exert on
the building srructure during an earthquake; these same loads can be used in designing the anchors.
important component of post-disaster life safety systems. In these cases, the measures needed to
Some mechanical equipment can be an
accommodare the movements caused by an earthquake become even more critical since failure of the equipment would not be
acceptable.

Clearly, complying with this requirement will, in most cases, necessitate close coordination beween the mechanical designer and the
structural designer.
For additional information on the rypes of structural movement that may be encountered, see futicle [Link]., Sentence [Link].(2)
and Subsection 4.1.8.

A-[Link].(1) lnstallation - General. Ducts or pipes without dampers or valves are generally not considered to constitute
"equipment" and are therefore not subject to this requirement.

A-[Link].(4) Ventilation Air Supplied to Suites. The indirect supply of required outdoor ventilation air to normally
occupied spaces through corridor pressurization or other indirect systems is not permitted.

A-[Link].(1) Ventilation and Venting of Crawl Spaces and Attic or Roof Spaces. The cross-reference to Part 5
pertains ro unconditione d and unoccupied crawl spaces, and attic or roof spaces, which are effectively within the building e nvelope.
That is, unconditioned and unoccupied attic or roof spaces are located beween the roof deck and roofing above, and the insulation,
air barrier system and vapour barrier below. Unconditioned and unoccupied crawl spaces are located berween the ground cover below
and the insularion, air barrier system and vapour barrier above . Venting of these spaces has implications for the performance of the
building envelope rather than having direct effects on indoor conditions. The ventilation ofconditioned or occupied crawl spaces and
attic or roof spaces must comply with Part 6.
The requirements in Part 5 are stated in terms of loads that must be resisted rather than in terms of building elements. Thus, the Code
user will nor find explicit references in Part 5 to crawl spaces, or attic or roofspaces. Part 5 makes reference to the need for venting
environmental separators, i.e., the dissipation of heat or moistute.
Sentence [Link].(l) requires that crawl spaces be ventilated either by natural (above-grade only) or mechanical means. High moisture
levels within the crawl space can lead to problems such as the formation of mould, lifting of flooring or long-term damage to structural
components.

Crawl space ventilation cannot be expected to correct moisture-related problems caused by other factors like inadequate surface
drainage from the foundation walls or improper protection against moisture from the ground. These conditions must be properly
addressed so that crawl space ventilation can meet its intended objectives.

Several factors favour the use ofmechanical ventilation rather than reliance on natural drafts. Local conditions, such as areas with high
water tables, may dictate the need for mechanical ventilation to remove excessive moisture.
Crawl spaces should be maintained at a negative pressure relative to the conditioned area above to prevent the migration of moisture
into occupied areas. This can be achieved through the use ofan exhaust fan and relying on air uansfer through floor penetrations,
such as pipes.

A-[Link].(1) Storage Garages, Car dealership showrooms are not considered as storage garages.

A-[Link].(2) Ventilation of Storage Garages. Storage garages are ventilated to protect occupantsfrom exposure to carbon
monoxide and other vehicular exhaust fumes. In certain small rwo- or three-bay storage garages that are used for
cases, such as
occasional vehicle srorage, and where occupants are not present, carbon monoxide or nitrogen dioxide monitoring devices may be
omitted if the ventilation system is interlocked with a local light switch or other controls to ensure continuous system operation
whenever the area is occupied. In any event, the ventilation system capaciry must be designed to limit the concentrations of carbon
monoxide or nitrogen dioxide at or below the prescribed values.

Division B 6-26 British Columbia Building Code 2018

Division B: Acceptable So/uflons Notes to Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

A-[Link]. lndoorAirContaminants.
Gontaminants of Concern
Indoor air can contain complex mixtures of contaminants of concern such as formaldehyde, legionella, mould and emissions from
building materials.'$fhile some contaminants may be knowingly introduced - as in the case of processing and manufacturing
environments - others may be unintentionally released into indoor environments. "Industrial Ventilation: A Manual of Recommended
Practice for Design," published by the ACGIH, and the "Exposure Guidelines for Residential Indoor Air Qualiry," published by
Health Canada, are useful references on the control of contaminants in industrial workplace environments and residential settings,
respectively. These and other guidelines and manuals should be interpreted while keeping in mind the settings and purposes for which
they were developed compared to those to which they will be applied. Note that such documents do not necessarily consider the
interactions between various contaminants.

Minimizing the Growth and Spread of Bio-contaminants

Bio-contaminants, such as bacteria, mould, mildew, fungi, viruses, and pollen, can thrive or be spread by sources like drain pans,
spray-water air-washers, contaminated fflters, poorly maintained cooling coils, water incursion into ductwork, cafeteria dishwasher
drainage leaks, high humidity and stagnant water, potentially causing a wide range of adverse health effects including respiratory
allergic reactions, asthma, and infectious diseases ranging from influenza to legionnaires' disease.
Some of the control measures are as follows:
(") Air-handling equipment should be accessible for the maintenance of {ilters, cooling coils and condensate drain pans located
below the cooling coils. Access doors should be large and easy to open to facilitate thorough and regular maintenance.
(b) If moisture is added to building ventilation air to maintain humidiry levels in a designated range, humidifiers that inject steam or
water vapour into central air-handling units or main supply ducts are normally used. Injection nozzles should not be located in
air-handling unit plenums or ductwork that is insulated with internal fibrous lining. If the lining becomes wet, conditions
conducive to the growth and spread of bio-contaminants will result.
The above only addresses built-in features of an HVAC system that can help to minimize the growth and spread of bio-contaminants.
Even more important than the built-in features is a program of regular maintenance and cleaning of those portions of the system where
such growth is likely to occur.

A-6.3,2.5. Duct Coverings and Linings. The TIAC "Mechanical Insulation Best Practices Guide" is a comprehensive
source of information on the selection, installation and proper use of thermal insulation materials. (Nore that Section 4 of this Guide
is not included in the scope of this Note as it contains information on proprietary products, which are not within the mandate of
the Code.)

A-[Link],(5) and (6) Exhausting to Garages. A frequent pracrice in the design of ventilation systems serving buildings
which have associated parking garages is to discharge exhaust air from the building to the garage in order to reduce the cost ofheating
the garage or reduce the length of the exhaust ducts. However, this practice entails a certain amount of risk since, when the exhaust
system is not running, stack effect may turn the exhaust oudets into intakes and exhaust fumes (including carbon monoxide) can be
drawn from the garage into the building. Incorporating a backdraft damper at the exhaust outlet provides some additional protection
but backdraft dampers are generally not regarded as being very reliable. Therefore this practice is only permitted in very limited
circumstances.

A-[Link].(6Xb) Air Contaminants. For the purpose of Clause 6.3.2,10.(6)(b), washroom exhaust air is not considered to
contain contaminants that would adversely affect the air qualiry in the storage garage.

A-[Link].(7) and (8) Exhaust Ducts Connected to Laundry-Drying Equipment. Clothes dryers are a major cause
of fires in buildings often due to a build-up of lint in the system, which then ignites or obstructs the venting or venrilarion.
Proper cleaning and regular maintenance of lint traps is directly proportional to the ease of access ro rhe linr traps. It is therefore
important to ensure that lint traps in multiple installations of laundry-drying equipment are installed in such a way as to allow easy
access for inspection, maintenance, repair and cleaning.

A-[Link].(12Xb) Operation Diversity Factor. The operation diversity factor has to be assessed for each specific
application. Good engineering practice (see Article [Link].) design guidelines can provide information on the subject.
Figure A-[Link].(12)(b), which originates from ASHRAE handbooks, provides an example of factors that can be used for
general applications.

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6-27

Notes to Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable Solutions

/
./
a
c(u
12
a
(', 10
./
c
F(u
c)
o_ 8
,/
o
o 6
./
-o
E ,/
4
o
-o
(U
-o 2
o
L
10 20 30 40

Total number of fans connected to the main riser

Figure A-[Link] 0.(1 2Xb)

Operation diversity factor

A-[Link].(2) Requirement for Venting. Sentence 6.3.3.I.(2) 'requires that vented products of combustion from appliances
be discharged a minimum distance away from certain outdoor spaces and building components in cases where the vented products
could contaminate rhe air of occupiable spaces. These minimum distances may need to be increased due to local conditions such as
prevailing winds, adjacenr structures, special processes being carried out, specific contaminants or effluent discharges, all of which
would require further analysis.
"Occupiable ourdoor spaces" refers to areas that could be occupied for a duration of more than fifteen minutes at any time' but does
not include mainrenance spaces. Occupiable outdoor spaces are located adjacent to an indoor space and are considered to be an
extension of this indoor space: e.g. main entries, balconies, patios, decks, green roofs and other public assembly areas. Although
sidewalks and driveways are mentioned in the provision, these areas are not considered as occupiable outdoor spaces since they are used
as transporr roures ro and from the building, and people are not expected to remain there for extended periods of time.

The requirements of Senten ce [Link].(2) are not meant to override similar requirements found in the installation standards referenced
in futicle [Link]. that address identical situations.

A-[Link],(3) Temperature of Exposed Piping. Normally piping carrying steam or high-temperature hot water at pressures
above atmospheric (corresponding temperature 100'C or above) will be insulated to reduce heat losses as an economy measure'
Above a remperarure of approximady 70"C, however, a bare pipe can cause a burn to human flesh coming in contact with the pipe'
If pipes above this temperature are normally out of reach of all persons other than maintenance personnel or are properly guarded, it
would be expected that no insulation would be needed for public safery.

A-[Link].(1) NFPA Publications Pertaining to the Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning of Spaces
Containing Hazardous Gases, Dusts or Liquids.
NFPA 30, "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code"
NFPA 30A, "Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages"
NFPA 32, "Drycleaning Plants"
NFPA 33, "Spray Application Using Flammable or Combustible Materials"
NFPA 34, "Dipping, Coating, and Printing Processes Using Flammable or Combustible Liquids"
NFPA 35, "Manufacture of Organic Coatings"
NFPA 36, "Solvent Extraction Plants"
NFPA 40, "storage and Handling of Cellulose Nitrate Film"
NFPA 5 1, "Design and Installation of Oxygen-Fuel Gas Systems for Welding, Cutting, and Allied Processes"

Division B 6-28 British Columbia Building Code 2018

 Division B: Acceptable Solutions Notes to Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning

NFPA 5lA, "Acetylene Cylinder Charging Plants"

NFPA 55, "Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids Code"
NFPA 61, "Prevenlion of Fires and Dust Explosions in Agricultural and Food Processing Facilities"
-
NFPA 68, "Explosion Protection by Deflagration Venting"
NFPA 69, "Explosion Prevention Systems"
NFPA 85, "Boiler and Combustion Systems Hazards Code"
NFPA 86, "Ovens and Furnaces"
NFPA 88A, "Parking Structures"
NFPA 91, "Exhaust Systems for Air Conveying of Vapors, Gases, Mists, and Noncombustible Particulate Solids"
NFPA 96, "Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations"
NFPA 204, "Smoke and Heat Venting"
NFPA 303, "Marinas and Boatyards"
NFPA 307, "Construcdon and Fire Protection of Marine Terminals, Piers, and \(harves"
NFPA 409, "Aircraft Hangars"
NFPA 415, "Airport Terminal Buildings, Fueling Ramp Drainage, and Loading \Talkways"
NFPA 484, "Combustible Metals"
NFPA 654, "Prevention of Fire and Dust Explosions from the Manufacturing, Processing, and Handling of Combustible
Particulate Solids"

NFPA 655, "Prevention of Sulfur Fires and Explosions"

NFPA 664, "Prevention of Fires and Explosions in \food Processing and \Toodworking Facilities"
NFPA "Fire Protection Guide to Hazardous Materials"

i) A-[Link] .(2)(c) Garbon Monoxide Alarms.

mechanically fastened in place.
Battery-powered carbon monoxide alarms are acceptable provided that they are

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B 6'29

Notes to Part 6 - Heating, Ventilating and Air-conditioning Division B: Acceptable So/ufions

Division B 6-30 British Columbia Building Code 2018