Course Overview
This one‑day course introduces the essential principles of industrial fire protection, with a focus on code
compliance, inspection practices, and risk‑based evaluation. Participants learn how the National Fire
Code of Canada (NFCC), National Building Code of Canada (NBCC), and industry best practices apply to
industrial occupancies, processes, and equipment.
The course is designed for fire inspectors, safety officers, facility managers, and professionals responsible
for interpreting and applying fire and building code requirements in industrial settings.
Learning Objectives
Participants will be able to:
- Interpret key NFCC and NBCC requirements relevant to industrial facilities.
- Identify common fire hazards in industrial environments and evaluate associated risks.
- Apply best practices for fire protection systems, equipment, and emergency planning.
- Conduct effective industrial fire inspections and document findings.
- Communicate compliance expectations to facility operators and stakeholders.
Hourly Course Delivery Schedule (One‑Day Program)
Full Instructor Script & Course Content
Module 1 — Industrial Fire Protection Fundamentals (09:00–10:00)
1.1 Introduction to Industrial Fire Protection
Industrial facilities present unique fire risks due to the presence of hazardous materials, high‑energy
processes, and complex equipment. Fire inspectors must understand how these risks differ from
commercial or residential environments.
Key talking points:
- Industrial occupancies under NBCC (e.g., Group F, Divisions 1–3)
- Fire load characteristics and process hazards
- The role of fire inspectors in industrial settings
1.2 Fire Science Refresher
- Fire triangle and tetrahedron
- Heat transfer mechanisms
- Ignition sources common in industrial facilities (mechanical friction, electrical faults, hot work)
1.3 Regulatory Framework
- National Fire Code of Canada (NFCC) – operational and maintenance requirements
- National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) – design and construction requirements
- Relationship between codes, standards (NFPA, CSA), and local bylaws
Module 2 — Codes & Compliance Framework (10:00–11:00)
2.1 NFCC Requirements for Industrial Occupancies
- Storage and handling of flammable/combustible liquids (NFCC Part 4)
- Hazardous processes and operations (NFCC Part 5)
- Fire safety plans and emergency procedures (NFCC Part 2)
2.2 NBCC Requirements
- Building classification and construction requirements
- Fire separations, fire‑resistance ratings, and spatial separation
- Egress, exits, and life safety systems
2.3 Enforcement & Authority
- Roles of AHJs (Authorities Having Jurisdiction)
- Inspection orders, compliance timelines, documentation
- Due diligence and legal considerations
Module 3 — Industrial Fire Hazards (11:15–12:15)
3.1 Common Industrial Hazards
- Flammable liquids and gases
- Combustible dusts
- Hot work operations
- Electrical hazards
- Mechanical equipment and rotating machinery
3.2 Hazardous Materials
- WHMIS classifications
- Storage compatibility
- Spill control and secondary containment
3.3 Risk Assessment Techniques
- Qualitative risk assessment
- Hazard identification checklists
- Using incident history and trend analysis
Module 4 — Fire Protection Systems & Equipment (13:00–14:00)
4.1 Fire Detection & Alarm Systems
- Smoke, heat, flame detectors
- Alarm panels and annunciation
- Supervisory signals and monitoring
4.2 Fire Suppression Systems
- Sprinkler systems (wet, dry, deluge, pre‑action)
- Standpipe systems
- Portable extinguishers (NFPA 10 best practices)
4.3 Special Hazard Systems
- Clean agent systems (FM‑200, Novec 1230)
- Foam systems for flammable liquid hazards
- Explosion protection (venting, suppression, isolation)
Module 5 — Inspection Techniques & Documentation (14:00–15:00)
5.1 Inspection Workflow
- Pre‑inspection preparation
- On‑site walkthrough
- Interviews with facility personnel
- Reviewing documentation (maintenance logs, permits, SDS sheets)
5.2 Common Non‑Compliance Issues
- Blocked exits
- Poor housekeeping
- Improper storage of hazardous materials
- Deficiencies in fire protection systems
5.3 Documentation & Reporting
- Writing clear inspection notes
- Photographic evidence
- Issuing orders and follow‑up procedures
Module 6 — Emergency Planning & Response (15:15–16:15)
6.1 Fire Safety Plans
- Required components under NFCC
- Roles and responsibilities
- Training and drills
6.2 Pre‑Incident Planning
- Coordination with fire departments
- Site mapping and hazard identification
- Access routes and water supply considerations
6.3 Industrial Emergency Response
- Internal response teams
- Incident command structure
- Post‑incident review and corrective actions