by Michael P. Gagne | Apr 25, 2019 | Featured Resources, News, Public Awareness
The Ontario Building Code Matters: Live, Work And Play In Safe Buildings
May Is Building Safety Month
Municipal building departments across the province are raising awareness about the importance of Ontario’s Building Code and building permits. Stop in this month to say hello and meet your local Building Officials. Download OBOA’s Building Safety Month poster.
The Ontario Building Code Is Vital
Ontario has the best building codes in the world, which is why Ontarians feel safe in the places they live, work and play. When building regulations are followed, communities thrive and disasters are avoided. Learn about the Ontario Building Code.
Building Officials Bring The Building Code To Life
Ontario Building Officials are municipal employees who oversee all construction, including buildings, housing, and structures, to ensure projects comply with Ontario’s complex and strict building code. We are experts in interpreting and applying the Ontario Building Code and are on the front line battling obstacles that get in the way of building safe, sustainable and accessible communities across this great province.
For more information about how Ontario’s Building Officials are working to increase safe and affordable housing across Ontario, download the OBOA’s Increasing Housing Supply in Ontario white paper.
Why You Need A Building Permit
A building permit is a document generally issued by Building Officials in municipal building departments who are responsible for enforcing Ontario’s Building Code in your area. A building permit is necessary when you want to construct, renovate, demolish or change the use of a building.
Building permits allow your municipality to protect the interests of both individuals and the community as a whole. By reviewing and approving building permit applications before any work is done, the municipality can ensure that buildings comply with the building code, bylaws, and other applicable legislation.
Learn more about why you need a building permit, when you need it, how to apply, and more.
Accessible Buildings
The accessibility requirements included in the Ontario Building Code are the most progressive in this nation and make it easier for persons with disabilities to enjoy the buildings where they work, live and play. In combination with the Ontario Building Code, the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) has created standards that guide organizations and businesses in removing barriers within their communities with the goal of achieving a safe and accessible province by 2025.
Learn about accessibility requirements under the Ontario Building Code. To find out about accessibility requirements for buildings in your area, contact your local municipality’s building department.
Railings Minimize Stair Hazards
Slips, trips, and falls are common home and workplace occurrences that can result in serious injuries. The main purpose of railing installation is safety to minimize stair hazards. The Ontario Building Code provides a framework for safe handrail design, construction, and installation and dictates things like the placement of posts, spindle spacing, and rail heights.
Talking about falls in the workplace can lead to identifying hazards and gaps in knowledge or training. Use the PSHSA’s Slips, Trips and Falls toolkit as your next Safety Talk theme.