The Task Group (TG) continued reviewing barriers to modular construction and determining which issues can be addressed through changes to the National Building Code.

Some barriers related to CSA A277 were deemed to be addressed through PCF 2157, which is currently out for public review. It was noted that CSA A277 standard is currently being reviewed to potentially be updated later this year.

The task group also identified several issues that, while important, fall outside its mandate. These included provincial code variation, barrier-free requirement clarity, and permitting or construction timing challenges. These were recognized as policy, enforcement, or education issues rather than code development matters.

The discussion then shifted to actionable items. Airtightness testing for modular factories was flagged as a priority, with PCF 1893 on off-site testing to be revisited at the next meeting. CHBA mentioned a research project they are undertaking with funding from NRC is underway and aims at collecting blower door testing results before and after a module is shipped specifically for the purpose of providing data for PCF 1893.

Finally, structural systems such as composite lumber, insulated sheathing, and I-joists were identified as priority areas for further technical review at the next meeting. For more information, please contact alex.bols@chba.ca