What Are the Different Types of Fire Alarms Required for Retirement Homes
Learn the fire safety requirements for seniors’ residences, hospitals, and CHSLDs in Quebec under the CBCS. Find out what systems are mandatory and how Guard-X ensures your facility stays compliant and protected.
Fire Safety in Seniors’ Residences: What the Law Says
Under Bill 122, adopted on March 18, 2013, all care facilities—including supervised residences housing 10 or more people, CHSLDs (long-term care homes), and hospitals—must comply with the fire safety standards set out in the Building Chapter of the Quebec Safety Code (CBCS).
In this article, Guard-X explains the mandatory fire protection systems for these types of facilities, as well as the specific obligations for healthcare establishments in Quebec.
Required Fire Safety Equipment in Hospitals and CHSLDs
The CBCS regulates occupant safety and building protection during a fire. It mandates the installation of the following systems in all hospitals and care facilities:
- A dual-signal fire alarm and detection system
• An automatic sprinkler system
• Emergency lighting in corridors and stairwells
• Automatic door closers
• Fire-rated separations (certified fire doors, walls, and floors)
Special Fire Safety Obligations for Healthcare Facilities
These requirements are detailed in the 2010 National Fire Code of Canada (NFCC) and incorporated into the CBCS. They apply to all health establishments in Quebec and include:
- Mandatory installation and repair of fire protection systems by a licensed contractor
• Ongoing maintenance and functionality of all fire safety equipment
• Development of a fire evacuation plan and procedures
• Conducting at least one evacuation drill per year
• An annual inspection of all fire protection systems by a certified specialist
Guard-X: Fire Protection Experts for Seniors’ Residences, Hospitals, and CHSLDs
Guard-X is a trusted fire safety leader for healthcare facilities across Greater Montreal. We hold all required certifications from the Régie du bâtiment du Québec, and our certified technicians provide expert service for:
Code-compliant installation of alarms, sprinklers, and emergency lighting
Certified annual inspections in line with CBCS regulations
Preventive maintenance and equipment servicing