PART 9 — HOUSING AND SMALL BUILDINGSUpdated for the 2024 Ontario Building Code
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9.33.8.2.Insulation and Coverings
(1) Insulation and coverings on pipes shall be composed of material suitable for the operating temperature of the system
to withstand deterioration from softening, melting, mildew and mould.
(2) Insulation and coverings on pipes in which the temperature of the fluid exceeds 120°C
(a) shall be made of noncombustible material, or
(b) shall not flame, glow, smoulder or smoke when tested in accordance with ASTM C411, “Standard Specification for
Hot-Surface Performance of High-Temperature Thermal Insulation,” at the maximum temperature to which such
insulation or covering is to be exposed in service.
(3) Except as provided in Sentence (6), where combustible insulation is used on piping in a horizontal or vertical service
space, the insulation and coverings on such pipes shall have a flame-spread rating throughout the material of not more
than
(a) 25 in buildings of noncombustible construction, and
(b) 75 in buildings of combustible construction.
(4) Except as provided in Sentence (6), insulation and coverings on piping located in rooms and spaces other than the
service spaces described in Sentence (3) shall have a flame-spread rating not more than that required for the interior
finish for the ceiling of the room or space.
(5) Pipes that are exposed to human contact shall be insulated so that the exposed surface does not exceed 52°C. (See
Note A-6.5.1.1.(3))
(6) No flame-spread rating or smoke developed classification limitations are required where combustible insulation and
coverings are used on piping when such piping is
(a) located within a concealed space in a wall,
(b) located in a floor slab, or
(c) enclosed in a noncombustible raceway or conduit.
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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.