The technical provisions within the Fire Code are mostly based upon the contributing factors in significant catastrophic fires of the recent past. When you have an event of any kind that results in multiple casualties, a large dollar loss or significant economic impact, the topic is most often elevated to one of national significance.

Reaction to those events may galvanize public opinion to the point of demanding something be done. This particular mechanism is also responsible for accelerating the development of Building and Fire Codes necessary to protect people against fire, is called the “Theory of Catastrophic Reform”. 

The Fire Code is a complex document that applies to all buildings. However, all buildings are different and application of the Fire Code varies depending on age, size, height, building use, life safety systems, supervisory staff availability and more.

Building resources vary. Buildings are like individuals. Each has its own inherent characteristics and qualities when it comes to the protection of life and property. Fire and life safety measures and protection needs differ building to building, specific to building use, occupant load, construction, built in detection/protection and the limitations of the firefighting water supply and fire department to name but a few.

Insurance & Liability Matters

Most building owners, managers and occupants are not trained to interpret the Fire Code and effectively apply the Fire Code to their building. Training availability has been limited in the past, yet remains vitally essential. Customized training is needed to ensure the Fire Code is applied and maintained appropriately in your building.

Life Safety & Standard Of Care
(Fiduciary Relationship)

Most building owners and occupants don’t know very much about their legal responsibility for fire safety and the building’s life safety systems. Customized Fire Safety Plans and training sessions will assist to reduce risk in your building.

Division C: Article 2.2.1.1.

Responsibility of the British Columbia Fire Code Regulations (BCFC) states that:

"1) Unless otherwise specified, the owner or the owner's authorized agent shall be responsible for carrying out the provisions of this Code."