The third meeting of the NMCC on Accessibility, chaired by Bob Dupuis, included a review of memos from the Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes (CBHCC), updates from task groups, and code change requests forwarded to the NMCC by the CBHCC. 

A key update was made to the Terms of Reference for the Task Group on Accessible Dwelling Units. The Task Group is now being asked to develop additional requirements for dwelling units under two phases:  phase one requirements are to be apply to 100% of dwelling units (similar to adaptability requirements in the 2025 Code) and phase two requirements are to apply to 100% of units with barrier-free access (similar to visitability requirements in the 2025 Code for which the percentage (0-100%) of units was deemed by the AHJs). The Canadian Board for Harmonized Construction Codes also advised the NMCC to focus on grab bar backing requirements for dwelling units, rather than grab bars themselves—except in hotels and dormitories, where grab bar requirements should be addressed. The CBHCC also clarified that accessibility requirements in Section 3.8 should not be replaced with CSA B651 but that technical requirements should remain in the code, with CSA B651 offered as a compliance option.

Codes staff presented recommendations on 19 code change requests (CCRs). The NMCC agreed by consensus to forward most to task groups for further review. Some CCRs were rejected as they did not address issues suitable for inclusion in the code. The CHBA recommended that the rationale for rejected CCRs be clearly documented and noted it will be important to give all proponents the same flexibility being given to Accessibility Standards Canada when CCRs with errors are submitted.

The agenda package can be found below.

For any questions, please reach out to Jack.Mantyla@chba.ca