Code Library › Volume 1 › Section 3.2 — Building Fire Safety
PART 3 — FIRE PROTECTION, OCCUPANT SAFETY AND ACCESSIBILITYUpdated for the 2024 Ontario Building Code

3.2.4.17.Alert and Alarm Signals

(1) In a 2-stage fire alarm system described in Sentence 3.2.4.4.(2), the same audible signal devices are permitted to be used to sound the alert signals and the alarm signals. (2) If audible signal devices with voice reproduction capabilities are intended for paging and similar voice message use, other than during a fire emergency, they shall be installed so that alert signals and alarm signals take priority over all other signals. (3) Audible signal devices forming part of a fire alarm or voice communication system shall not be used for playing music or background noise.
← Previous3.2.4.16. Manual StationsNext →3.2.4.18. Audibility of Alarm Systems (See Note A-3.2.4.18

Common questions about this part of the code

When is noncombustible construction required under the Ontario Building Code?When are automatic sprinklers required in a building in Ontario?What are the fire department access route requirements under the Ontario Building Code?When is a fire alarm system required in a building in Ontario?

Understand this provision in seconds

BUILDAiD Assist explains any article of the building code in plain English — with exact citations, exceptions and related requirements.

Try BUILDAiD Beta

Code text is reproduced for reference from the Ontario Building Code (O. Reg. 163/24, 2024 Building Code Compendium). This page is provided for general information and is not an official copy. Always verify requirements against the official Ontario Building Code and confirm with your local building department.