OFA comments on: The Regulatory Registry #23-SOLGEN011: Proposed Changes to the Ontario Fire Code.
OFA believes farm safety is of the utmost importance. While the OFC has not applied to farm buildings in the past, we understand and are supportive of fire-safe measures for new farm buildings to mitigate risks. We support the effort to update the Ontario Fire Code (OFC) to better harmonize and align with the National Fire Code of Canada (NFC) and with the Ontario Building Code (OBC). Clarity and consistent interpretation and application of building and fire safety requirements are paramount to a thriving agri-food sector in Ontario.
OFA posed several questions seeking clarity and provided examples where normal agricultural practices would make practical enforcement of the OFC difficult. We suggested the creation of training specific to farm structures and operations for those enforcing the OBC and OFC, as well as a communication and education plan for those designing farm buildings and for the farm community.
Previous related OFA submissions: