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

3.2.4.23.One-Way Voice Communication Systems

(1) Except for Group B, Division 1 and Group F, Division 1 major occupancies, where a fire alarm system is required under Subsection 3.2.4., a one-way voice communication system shall be installed in buildings where a 2-stage fire alarm system is installed and whose occupant load exceeds 1 000. (2) The one-way voice communication system required by Sentence (1) shall consist of loudspeakers that are (a) operated from the central alarm and control facility or, in the absence of a central alarm and control facility, from a designated area, and (b) except in elevator cars, designed and located so that transmitted messages are audible and intelligible in all parts of the building. (See Note A-3.2.4.22.(1)(b)) (3) Where the facility is not equipped with staff trained to provide instructions over the loudspeakers, a pre-recorded message shall be provided. (4) The voice communication system required by Sentence (1) shall meet the silencing and transmission requirements of Sentences 3.2.4.22.(2) to (4) and (6).
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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.