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The views expressed in this article explain the benefit of having reliable data, and it is equally important to have the cost comparison analysis between a standard and an accessible dwelling unit. These two pieces of information will help draft the code’s provisions efficaciously.

Figure 3 portrays an accessible kitchen, and Figure 4 displays the additional features required in an accessible washroom.

Accessible exits and accessible entrances

NBC 2020 has provisions for accessible entrances, but it does not incorporate accessible exits. Accessible features such as no-step entrances (either ramped or ground-level entrance) (Figure 5), wider entrance doorways, and wider hallways/public corridors allow a person in a wheelchair or mobility device to enter a building easily.

Protecting the grade-level entrance for wheelchairs from blowing snow must also be evaluated, as a threshold of 13 mm (0.5 in.) prescribed in the current code may be a challenge for dwelling units. The current code does not cover accessible means of egress, and they are not a priority for the 2025 edition of NBC.

Until accessible exits are included, creating a refuge area in a dwelling unit not equipped with an automatic sprinkler system within each storey (stay-put-policy) could be considered. Figure 6 displays a possible refuge area in a multi-storey building.

To conclude, accessible exits should be included in the code to ensure equality among people and the safe evacuation of people with disabilities. Accessible entrances are available for persons with mobility impairment, and are most used for exiting are ramps and refuge areas. An area of refuge in a non-sprinklered building is most common for the upper storeys of multi-level buildings, where it is not feasible to install a ramp.

Authors

Avinash Gupta, P.Eng., is a chief code compliance engineer and assistant fire marshal for the government of the Northwest Territories. He is a member of the Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CHBCC, earlier it was PTPACC) and is actively involved in the development of building codes. Gupta writes code-related educational articles for engineering magazines and holds presentations for professionals. He can be reached via email at avinashguptap.eng@gmail.com.

Dominic Esposito, P.Eng., is a senior project consultant (code consulting/fire protection) for Jensen Hughes. His role is to provide clients with cost-effective solutions that maintain their overall design objectives while maintaining safety. The solutions are for the fire and life safety and accessibility requirements of the codes.