Media Advisory on Single Exit Stairway Building Plan Design

For Immediate Release

BC Provincial Government Makes Changes to BC Building Code Against the Opinion of Public Safety Professionals

Vancouver, BC - On August 29 2024, the British Columbia Provincial Government made changes to the BC Building Code to allow for residential multi unit dwellings to reduce their minimum egress stairways down to a single stairway for up to six (6) stories. This change was made unilaterally and made the BC Building Code incongruent with the intent of a harmonized code with the National Building Code. This change also does not take into account numerous concerns raised by public safety and fire service professional organizations. 

The Fire Chiefs Association of BC (FCABC) and the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association (BCPFFA) have serious concerns regarding the BC Provincial Government move to amend the BC Building Code to allow a Single Exit Stairway (SES) in multi-residential buildings.

On June 25th, 2024, Robert Heikkila, with Jensen Hughes, authored a report for the Provincial Government entitled Single Egress Stair Building Designs: Policy and Technical Options Report. The report identifies some of the fire service’s concerns but does not go far enough to highlight the significant risk to life safety that would exist if a building code revision is made to allow this in BC.

“It is concerning that the Province of B.C. has reduced established critical life-saving features by circumventing the national code development consensus process. The national code development process ensures equal, non-biased dialogue between all stakeholders to find consensus.” -- President Todd Schierling (BCPFFA) 

“Circumventing the code development process jeopardizes the public, building occupants, and first responders. Much like smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, proper exiting is known to have saved thousands of lives and remains the fundamental building block to life safety.” -- President Dan Derby (FCABC)

Layered fire prevention measures encompassing multiple means of egress, fire suppression systems, fire-rated construction, automatic fire alarm systems, compartmentalization, and many other codes provide a reasonable, widely accepted, and nationally developed level of protection. Drastic changes, such as those proposed, directly contrast with time-tested safety fundamentals.

Positions on SES:

Our associations are not alone with this concern and numerous other industry professionals well versed in the conversation have voiced similar comments and provided position statements, including:

As recently as this past May, the International Codes Council rejected a similar proposed change. This group establishes codes that a considerable number of countries use.

Summation of our Position

  1. The single-egress stairway concept is complex and should be properly evaluated through the national code change process; 

  2. BC’s planned adoption of single-egress stairways is moving too quickly, does not have supporting data, and does not consider all stakeholder concerns. The latest Canadian data was not considered. Refer to the Single Stair Egress Report by Len Garis; 

    • Nearly 9% of the fires in these buildings start in the hallway or stairwell, 

    • Smoke from these fires flooded the hall and stairs, 

    • The majority (68%) of residential fire-related deaths were a result of smoke inhalation alone, while 10% were reported to be caused by both smoke inhalation and burns, and 17% were due to burns alone.

    • Fire inspection data shows that 40% of fire and life safety systems in apartment buildings are not compliant with fire codes and may not function properly, ie. smoke detectors, heat alarms or automatic sprinkler systems, 

  3. The BC Building Code (BCBC) does not consider or control other aspects of fire response capacity and building upkeep realities once a building is completed; 

  4. Fires do occur in egress pathways even with protection systems in place; 

  5. BC Fire Code inspections of apartment buildings show low compliance rates; 

  6. Emerging issues such as lithium-ion battery fires make this proposal even riskier; 

  7. Human movement research on evacuations showed a negative impact with a single exit.

Our associations are requesting that these changes be reversed or paused, and we strongly recommend that this be deferred to the National Building Code revision process with the involvement of the National Research Council.

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Media Inquiries

  • Todd Schierling, President (BCPFFA), 604.436.2053

  • Dan Derby, President (FCABC), 604.492.3080

You can’t argue with Evidence Based Data!

 
 
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  1. B.C. fire chiefs worry about 1-stairwell building code changes, CBC News, August 31, 2024

Town Hall at Station 1271 IAFF Membership and Affiliate Leaders

Town Hall Meeting with IAFF Members

BCPFFA President Schierling, Premier Eby, L1271 President Lattanzio and MLA Starchuk

Co-hosted by IAFF Local 1271 President Lattanzio and BCPFFA President Schierling, Local 1271 and the British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters Association (BCPFFA) had the unique opportunity to engage with Premier David Eby, Minister Harry Bains, and MLA Mike Starchuk in front of over 50 IAFF members and local leaders from the surrounding area. This event focused on critical issues important to firefighters, including presumptive occupational diseases and illnesses, PFAS, mental health programs, building code changes, and wildfire/disaster plans, demonstrating the strong commitment of our community to addressing these vital concerns.

We recognize the support of the Provincial Government in areas of,

  • Presumptive Occupational Illness / Disease / Cancer

  • Presumptive Operational Stress Injuries

  • WorkSafe Reform

  • Employer Paid Sick Days

  • Funding for Occupational Awareness Training

  • New Hospital in Surrey and Cancer Centre

 
 

We also stressed that more work needs to be done about Single Stair Egress and we aim to meet with the Premier and Housing minister soon on this issue.

July 10, 2024 at Station 1271 Union Hall, Surrey

 
 
 

The event also marks the 30th Anniversary of the Surrey Fire Fighters’ Charitable Society where founding members Lorne West, Jon Caviglia, Gerry Wilson and Mike Starchuk were all on hand. The Premier had a tour of the Station which was a refurbished old Hall 7 - heritage building in Surrey.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to David Eby, Harry Bains, Mike Starchuk, MLA Surrey - Cloverdale for taking the time to listen to fire fighters' concerns and for sharing the initiatives being undertaken by your government to improve workplace safety and conditions in British Columbia.

See Album: https://photos.app.goo.gl/TNvysWwn1V4ktMV48 (photos by Province of British Columbia)



Thank you Hon. Minister Harry Bains

 
 
 

On behalf of BC’s Professional Fire Fighters, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Minister Harry Bains. His dedication and unwavering support have significantly impacted our profession and the lives of workers throughout British Columbia.

Throughout almost two decades as MLA and in his role as Minister of Labour, Harry has been an ally and friend to fire fighters as we work together to improve working conditions, advocate for our rights, and ensure our safety.

Harry, as you embark on this new chapter of your life, we wish you all the best. Your commitment to our well-being has set a standard for others to follow. Thank you for your service and for all you have done for the firefighters of British Columbia.

— President Todd Schierling

 
 

Private Members Bill Introduction of Firefighter Protection Act

Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands of the BC Green Party

On March 14, 2024, a private members bill, the "Firefighter Protection Act" was introduced in the BC Legislature. The motion was carried and ordered to be placed on orders of the day for second reading at the next sitting of the House after today. This Private Members Bill, introduced by Adam Olsen, MLA for Saanich North and the Islands of the BC Green Party, is a crucial step towards ensuring the well-being of firefighters in British Columbia. For more information view Media release and Transcript and Video reading of Private Members Bill

“The British Columbia Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA) appreciates that the issue of fire fighter safety is being raised through this private members bill, and the BCPFFA will continue to advocate and work with the Province to safeguard our firefighters from dangerous ‘forever chemicals’ found in outdated protective gear,” says President Schierling.

At a press conference following the first reading in the BC Legislature, Schierling emphasized the importance of this bill, stating that the BC Government has the opportunity to lead the nation in mitigating the risk of exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and other harmful substances, and protect the safety of fire fighters.

Schierling goes on to say, “This bill is a crucial step towards protecting the safety of our fire fighters, and it will take efforts from all levels of government to make it happen.  At the local government level, with the advocacy of IAFF Local 18 and Vancouver's Mayor Ken Sim’s commitment during the BCPFFA FIRE OPS in 2023, Vancouver Fire Rescue Services have initiated efforts to implement non-PFAS personal protective equipment.”

Our best protection from heat and smoke contains PFAS.

Schierling highlighted the efforts of the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) in leading the mission on PFAS mitigation, and how affiliate leaders will be pushing the federal government in Ottawa this April to address the heightened cancer risk faced by firefighters. We will advocate to ban the manufacture, import and use of PFAS and to implement other measures to protect fire fighters, the environment and all Canadians from these dangerous chemicals

Furthermore, in 2023, a joint statement was issued by the Fire Chiefs Association of BC (FCABC) and BCPFFA asking fire fighters to reduce exposure to PFAS in turnout gear by using several precautions.

 
 
 
 
 

Left to Right: BCPFFA Secretary Treasurer Brian Catinus, Central Saanich Local 4428 President Alex Levitt, Salt Spring Island Local 4467 President Warren Nuyens and BCPFFA President Todd Schierling

 

More B.C. firefighters will benefit from expanded psychological wellness program

News Release, Victoria

Tuesday, March 5, 2024 7:30 AM

BC Provincial Government

More firefighters will learn how to develop and improve their mental-health resiliency through enhanced access to a psychological wellness training program. 

Hon. Jennifer Whiteside

The BC Occupational Awareness Training online program, administered by the BC Municipal Safety Association and First Responder Health, will be offered to BC Wildfire Service staff and include more training about how to manage daily stress and anxiety.

“Firefighters are there for us in the most trying times of our lives and it can take a toll on their own mental health,” said Jennifer Whiteside, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Because they are so used to helping others through high-stress situations, it can be challenging for some first responders to take the time to focus on their own mental health. By supporting this program, we are ensuring more first responders learn how to take care of their own mental health and build resiliency that will help them throughout their careers and lives.” 

Launched in spring 2023, the online program is available to all municipal firefighters throughout the province and all BC Wildfire Services staff as of March 1, 2024. Phase 2 of the program, which includes 12 new training modules, will launch this summer. 

“The BC Municipal Safety Association and its partners are looking forward to providing additional upstream mental-health training,” said Mike Roberts, chief executive officer, BC Municipal Safety Association. “Through proactive mental-health care, we can help prevent issues before they become more serious, fostering a healthier and more productive life and work environment for all B.C. firefighters.”

To date, more than 6,660 municipal firefighters have enrolled in the program. 

The first year of the program focuses on helping firefighters understand mental health, learn how to manage stress and develop self-care strategies. It allows workers to watch a short video of 10-15 minutes from the series, followed by a guided crew discussion that is supported by a printable workbook. The videos and workbooks remain available online so firefighters who miss a session or join the department later can access these resources.

“The safety and well-being of our firefighters are of the utmost importance and we are committed to taking proactive measures to ensure their protection,” said Todd Schierling, president, BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Association (BCPFFA). “With the support of the ministry and the collaborative effort of other partners, we are enhancing training resources to safeguard firefighters from mental-health illnesses and injuries.”

The Province is investing more than $1 billion in new funding to ensure people living with mental-health or addiction challenges can find, access and stay connected to care, including $586 million for treatment and recovery services specifically.

Quotes:

Curtis Woodworth, local B.C. firefighter –

“Firefighters are often hesitant to seek help for their mental health due to stigma and shame. This support will make such a positive difference and will remind us that we are not alone. This program will save lives.”

Harry Bains, Minister of Labour –

“Firefighters can experience tremendous stress on the job, and it takes a toll on their mental health. That’s why we included mental-health injuries to the list of presumptive conditions that are eligible for fast-tracked workers’ compensation benefits specifically for firefighters. It is great to see another program added to help firefighters protect their well-being from stress.”

Bruce Ralston, Minister of Forests –

“Our wildland firefighters work tirelessly around the clock in some of the most extreme conditions to protect people around our province. Leaving their own friends, family and community behind to protect others not only takes a physical toll but a mental toll as well. This program will ensure that there is support for our firefighters when they need it most and creates a foundation for their health and well-being going forward.”

Quick Facts:

  • To support the expansion of this program, the Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions is investing $300,000 over two years.

  • The program’s goal is to make it easier and more acceptable for firefighters to seek help for mental-health challenges. It also aims to strengthen their resilience and help organizations better identify the kind of support they need.

  • This program is supported by the BCPFFA, Volunteer Firefighters’ Association of BC, BC Fire Training Officers Association and the Fire Chiefs’ Association of BC.

Learn More:

To learn more about the Occupational Awareness Training:
https://www.firstresponderhealth.org/bcffoat

To learn more about the BC Professional Fire Fighter Association:
https://www.bcpffa.net/

Learn about mental-health and substance-use housing supports in British Columbia:
https://helpstartshere.gov.bc.ca/

Burn Awareness Week 2024: Focus on Flammable Liquid Burns

BC Professional Fire Fighters Burn Fund Raises Awareness During

Burn Awareness Week 2024: Focus on Flammable Liquid Burns

 
 
 
 

Vancouver, BC - February 5, 2024 - As Burn Awareness Week approaches from February 4-10, 2024, the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund is launching a campaign to draw attention to the critical issue of burn safety and prevention, with this year's theme centered around Flammable Liquid Burns.

The Burn Fund aims to shed light on the heightened risks associated with the use of flammable liquids and accelerants such as gasoline, acetone, paint thinners, and alcohol. Incidents involving these substances can escalate rapidly and unexpectedly, leading to severe injuries and traumatic experiences for burn survivors.

Burn injuries are not only exquisitely painful but also entail extensive medical procedures and care. Burn survivors often face challenges such as dressing changes, fluid loss, and a heightened risk of severe infections due to their compromised immune systems. Inhalation injuries, common in indoor fires, are also prevalent in flammable liquid fires, even outdoors, owing to the size of flames and exposure to toxic chemicals.

In the context of the rising trend of TikTok challenges encouraging the use of accelerants in videos, the Burn Fund underscores the importance of parental intervention. Parents are urged to emphasize fire safety with their children, as the misuse of flammable liquids can lead to serious injuries and, in extreme cases, loss of life.

To promote awareness and provide valuable insights into burn safety, the BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund will be releasing a video series throughout Burn Awareness Week. The series will feature safety tips from a fire fighter and plastic surgeon, highlighting the crucial aspects of a burn survivor's journey: rescue and recovery.

Video Series Participants:

Brian Catinus, Saanich Fire Fighter Local 967 and Secretary-Treasurer of the BC Professional Fire Fighters Association and Burn Fund.

Dr. Sally Hynes, Burn Director for BC Children's Hospital and pediatric plastic surgeon with a focus on cleft lip and palate, congenital hand differences and burns.

Join us in spreading the message of caution and safety during Burn Awareness Week 2024. Together, we can prevent burn injuries and create a safer environment for all.

Campfire Safety Tips:

  1. Build your fire in a designated ring/pit at least 15 feet away (preferably downwind from tent, brush and other flammable objects).

  2. Keep children at a safe distance with a “circle of safety” at least 3 feet from the fire edge.

  3. Completely extinguish the fire and coals by pouring water, stirring, and pouring water again until it is cool. Never bury a fire.

  4. Fire pits retain heat up to 12 hours after being extinguished - hot enough to cause a severe burn.

  5. Don’t use an accelerant such as gasoline, kerosene or aerosol sprays to start a fire.

Gasoline Safety Tips:

  1. Use gasoline outdoors only, and store in cool, well-ventilated areas.

  2. Keep gasoline in a secure location, out of the reach of children.

  3. Use containers that have been listed, labeled, or approved for gasoline.

  4. Fill equipment with gas when engines are cool.

In the event of a burn injury:

  1. If you have burning flammable liquids on your body or clothes, STOP, DROP, AND ROLL until the flames have been extinguished. Then Call 911.

  2. Cool the burn with COOL (not cold) water to stop the burning process.

  3. Remove all clothing from the injured area.

  4. Cover the area with a clean dry sheet or bandage.

  5. Seek medical attention.

Why burn awareness is important:

  1. Each year at BC Children’s Hospital there are more than 1,000 burn-related visits for both treatment and follow-up appointments. Approximately 150 patients with new burn injuries are treated at BC Children’s Hospital each year alone.

  2. Scald burns account for 70 per cent of all burns in children in B.C. Scalds are most often caused by hot liquids, steam or hot bath water. 78 percent of burn injuries in children in B.C. happen to children under five. Toddlers are at a developmental stage where they need to explore and experiment, often lacking awareness of danger in certain situations.

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For media inquiries, please contact:

Jane Spitz, Communications Manager

Email: jane@burnfund.org

Phone: 604-558-6614

About The BC Professional Fire Fighters’ Burn Fund

From rescue to recovery, fire fighters have answered the call to support burn survivors across BC and the Yukon since 1978. The Burn Fund is dedicated to assisting burn survivors throughout their recovery every step of the way. The Burn Fund empowers survivors through programs and retreats. Offers accommodations to burn survivors and their families. Enhances medical care at BC’s trauma hospitals. And fills the gap with vital resources and treatment.

Survivor Story: Duncan McIntosh

 

Survivor Story: Duncan McIntosh

Duncan is a Captain with the Township of Langley Fire Department, Local 4550, with 20 years of fire service. It’s been 3 years since Duncan had his colectomy surgery. Diagnosed with Colorectal cancer.

“I was diagnosed with cancer during my best earning years. You worry about how you’re going to pay the bills, treatment, medication.”

“I hope that by sharing my story, I can help raise awareness of the risk fire fighters have. And prevent others from getting cancer.”