Ontario Building Code Updates: New Burn Test Requirements Impacting Signage Industry
The Ontario Building Code (OBC) has recently implemented updates regarding material burn testing requirements, specifically focusing on ASTM D3801 standards. These updates are the result of a joint effort by the Ontario Sign Association (OSA) and the Sign Association of Canada (SAC), who collaborated closely with industry members and made significant investments to advocate for this change. The previous requirements placed an undue burden on the sign industry, and this update reflects a more reasonable approach tailored to industry needs.
The ASTM D3801 burn test, a measure of material flame resistance, will now be a mandatory component for materials used in signage that falls under certain building and installation parameters. This change aims to ensure heightened fire safety by requiring that signage materials meet specific flame resistance levels, minimizing potential risks in commercial and public spaces.
SAC’s 2015 Opinion Submission: Recommendations Adopted
In 2015, the Sign Association of Canada (SAC) submitted an opinion regarding these updates to Ontario’s Building Code. Our recommendations included updating Division B 3.15.4.1(b) to replace ASTM D568 with ASTM D3801 for vertical burn testing of plastic materials used in signage. SAC emphasized that ASTM D568, which had been withdrawn in 1991, was outdated and costly for manufacturers to implement. We proposed that the OBC adopt ASTM D3801, a modern and internationally recognized standard for vertical burning characteristics, for a more relevant evaluation of plastic sign faces.
In response to our recommendations, the updated OBC now references ASTM D3801, reflecting the current industry standards and simplifying compliance. SAC also advocated that these updates should be cost-neutral, enhancing enforceability without increasing compliance costs for sign manufacturers.
Excerpt of Article 3.15.4.1.
3.15.4. Plastic Sign Facing Materials
3.15.4.1. Combustible Sign Faces
(1) Plastic materials used in the construction of sign faces shall
(a) have an average burning rate not greater than
(i) 65 mm/min in sheets 1.5 mm thick when tested in accordance with ASTM D635, “Standard Test Method for Rate of Burning and/or Extent and Time of Burning
of Plastics in a Horizontal Position”, or
(ii) 140 mm/min when tested in accordance with ASTM D3801, “Standard Test Method for Measuring the Comparative Burning Characteristics of Solid Plastics in a
Vertical Position,” and
(b) have a measurement of material thickness in accordance with Method B-Machinists’ Micrometer Without Ratchet of ASTM D374 / D374M, “Standard Test
Methods for Thickness of Solid Electrical Insulation.”
Access the Full Building Code Update
To review the complete updates to the Ontario Building Code, including detailed requirements and implementation guidelines, click here.
What This Means for the Sign Industry
- Material Compliance: Manufacturers must ensure that all materials used for signage meet ASTM D3801 standards. This compliance check will impact both the selection and testing processes for signage materials, especially in high-traffic or enclosed areas where fire safety regulations are stricter.
- Industry Adaptation: SAC encourages all sign companies to review their material inventory, supply chains, and installation protocols to ensure compliance with these new requirements. Non-compliance could lead to project delays, re-installations, or potential fines under OBC regulations.
Support and Resources
The Sign Association of Canada (SAC) is here to support our members in navigating these new standards. We encourage members to reach out with questions and take advantage of our available resources, including guidance documents. SAC will continue to monitor these developments and provide updates on how members can stay compliant.
For further information, contact us at [email protected]