TIME: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Description
Understanding the Ontario Fire Code (OFC) is an important part of working with existing buildings. While architects regularly apply the Ontario Building Code (OBC) to renovations, alterations, and changes of use, existing buildings may also be subject to fire safety obligations that arise independently under the OFC.
Part 9 of the OFC establishes retrofit requirements for specified existing buildings, addressing life safety measures such as fire containment, means of egress, fire alarm and detection systems, and fire suppression. Determining whether these requirements apply requires consideration of building occupancy, configuration, construction history, applicable exemptions, and existing conditions.
This webinar provides an overview of OFC Part 9 and its implications for architectural practice. Participants will explore the relationship between the OBC and OFC, the organization and application of Part 9, and selected technical retrofit requirements.The presenters will also discuss compliance approaches, including prescriptive requirements, approved alternatives, and Life Safety Studies, with attention to their regulatory distinctions.
The webinar will highlight key considerations for architects working with existing buildings, including identifying potential retrofit requirements and coordinating with building owners, consultants, and regulatory authorities.
Designed for architects, intern architects, and other building professionals involved in existing-building projects, this webinar aims to strengthen participants’ understanding of OFC Part 9 and its implications for architectural practice.
Learning Objectives
- Identify and explain the major OFC Part 9 retrofit requirements applicable to existing buildings.
- Apply OFC Part 9 provisions to assess applicability, exemptions, and existing-building conditions.
- Distinguish between applicable prescriptive requirements, approved alternatives, and Life Safety Studies when considering potential compliance approaches.
- Recognize potential retrofit issues and their implications for architectural scope, design, coordination, approvals, construction, and building operation.
Presenters:
Hamid Imami, Senior Project Manager & Code Engineering, LRI Engineering
Hamid is a licensed architect (OAA) and Senior Project Manager with over twenty years of experience in architecture, building code consulting, and project management. He specializes in OBC and NBC reviews, plans examination, compliance reporting, and alternative solution development. Hamid provides strategic code interpretation from early design through occupancy, helping project teams navigate complex regulatory requirements while maintaining design integrity. Before joining LRI, he held senior architectural roles in Toronto, delivering projects across residential, commercial, healthcare, and institutional sectors. He holds a master's degree in architectural engineering and is a Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM), recognized for advanced communication and leadership skills.
Elias Frechette, Team Lead & Code Engineering, LRI Engineering
Elias is the Team Lead of LRI Engineering, with more than a decade of experience in building code consulting, fire protection engineering, and life safety strategy. A graduate of Conestoga College's Architectural Construction Engineering Technology program, he leads complex, multi stakeholder projects across residential, mixed use, commercial, institutional, and industrial sectors. Elias specializes in drawing reviews, building audits, accessibility assessments, and the development of alternative solutions for performance-based designs. Known for his technical clarity and collaborative approach with Authorities Having Jurisdiction, he is also a dedicated mentor, supporting the development of emerging code professionals.
Pricing:
Licensed OAA Members: $42.50 + HST
OAA Interns and Students: $32.50 + HST
Non-Members: $63.00 + HST
NOTE:
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OAA Continuing Education
e: OAAContinuingEducation@oaa.on.ca
t: 416.449.6898 Ext: 232
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