Port Coquitlam Fire and Emergency Services is committed to proactively identifying specific safety requirements for commercial occupancies to ensure consistency and compliance. We strive to work closely with developers from the earliest stages of new construction projects, fostering collaboration to address common fire safety concerns. By engaging early in the development process, we can ensure that fire protection measures are effectively integrated, enhancing the safety of our community.
The Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services recognizes that each construction project is unique and is committed to working collaboratively to ensure safety and code compliance. During the building permit application stage, the Fire Department provides detailed comments to all applicants. This proactive approach helps address common fire safety requirements for new construction as early as possible in the development process.The following documents are designed with the intent of supporting developers and builders throughout the plan review, construction and final occupancy process.
The British Columbia Fire Code mandates that properties have a Fire Safety Plan based on their use or occupancy type. Buildings under construction must have a Construction Fire Safety Plan, followed by a complete Fire Safety Plan before they are ready for occupancy. Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services also requires a Pre-Incident Plan and a Vital Information Form to be submitted with each Fire Safety Plan. A review fee of $200 (tax included) applies per submission. The following documents are designed with the intent of supporting fire safety planners with their submissions.
The BC Fire Code states that “Measures shall be taken to mitigate fire spread to adjacent buildings and facilities that would be exposed to fire originating from buildings, parts of buildings, facilities and associated areas undergoing construction, alteration or demolition operations” (BCFC 5.6.1.2. (1)). The degree of application of Section 5.6. is determined in advance in conjunction with the authority having jurisdiction (Fire Department). The application of Section 5.6 varies depending on the project. During the plan review process, if required, Port Coquitlam Fire & Emergency Services mandates that a registered professional submit a report assessing the protection of adjacent buildings during construction. These reports typically use radiant heat flux calculations and thermal radiation analysis software to quantify heat transfer risks.
