The Ontario Fire Code has introduced significant updates regarding carbon monoxide alarms as part of new safety initiatives. These regulations came into effect on January 1, 2026. The primary goal is to enhance protection against carbon monoxide poisoning, often referred to as the “silent killer.”
New Regulations for Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Under the updated fire code, every residence equipped with gas-burning appliances, such as furnaces, water heaters, or stoves, must now feature carbon monoxide alarms on each floor. This includes homes that have fireplaces or attached garages.
Previously, alarms were only mandated outside of sleeping areas. The new regulations require additional alarms, providing an extra layer of safety. According to the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OAFC), a staggering 88% of homes contain potential carbon monoxide hazards.
Statistics on Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
- Over 50 fatalities occur annually due to carbon monoxide poisoning in Canada.
- On average, 11 deaths happen each year in Ontario.
- Two-thirds of these deaths are reported during the fall and winter months.
- Most incidents occur while victims are asleep.
The primary causes of carbon monoxide poisoning include vehicle emissions, smoke, fire, and barbecues, as detailed by a comprehensive study conducted by Health Canada from 2011 to 2023.
Impacts on Multi-Residential Buildings
The revisions to the fire code extend to multi-residential buildings, including apartments, condominiums, and retirement homes. Alarms must be installed in units heated by air from an external fuel-burning appliance. Previously, alarms were only necessary if the unit itself contained a fuel-burning device, or if it was situated above, below, or adjacent to a garage or service room that housed such appliances.
Furthermore, if a multi-story unit has multiple floors, an alarm is required on each level. Public corridors also necessitate new alarms if they are heated using air from a fuel-burning appliance.
These changes aim to bolster safety measures and ensure that residents are better protected against carbon monoxide risks.
