Child Care Facility Requirements
Use the step by step tool below to help determine the BC Building Code and BC Fire Code requirements that apply to your child care facility.
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Smoke alarms
A smoke alarm is a combined smoke detector and audible alarm device designed to sound an alarm within the room or suite in which it is located upon the detection of smoke within that room or suite. Smoke alarms and/or smoke detectors are required in all group care settings in which napping may occur, notwithstanding whether a nap area is required by the care program type.
Smoke alarms in daycares must:
- Be wired so that if one smoke alarm sounds, the other alarms sound also.
- Conform to can/ulcs553-02 standard and be installed in accordance with the required manufacturer’s installation requirements.
- Have no disconnection switch between the over currency devise and the smoke alarm (this helps to ensure that the smoke alarm is always energized).
Smoke detectors
Smoke detector means a fire detector designed to operate when the concentration of airborne combustion products exceeds a predetermined level.
Regulations
Regulations by BC Building Code (BCBC), BC Fire Code (BCFC) and Community Care and Section 20 of the Assisted Living Act (CCASI).
Exits
Exit is required at grade level with the maximum of 1 storey up or down from any of the daycare rooms or an outside stairway leading to a ground floor level.
When an architect is required
A registered professional architect is required for:
- a building permit application
- a child care facility that is proposed within a commercial space, regardless of the number of children
- a child care facility with over 8 children that is located in a single family dwelling