High-Rise, Mid-Rise, and Low-Rise Buildings

When you look at the buildings in your city or neighborhood, you’ll notice not all are created equal. Their height and complexity aren't just about looks — they also change how fire safety, drills, and emergency testing are handled.
Today, let’s dive deeper into how buildings are classified in Ontario, and what the key safety procedures involve.

Building Types in Ontario: Low-Rise, Mid-Rise, and High-Rise

In Ontario, buildings are categorized mainly by the number of stories:

• Low-Rise Buildings:

  • Typically 4 stories or fewer.

  • Examples: Single-family homes, townhouses, small apartments.

• Mid-Rise Buildings:

  • Buildings between 5 to 12 stories.

  • Examples: Medium-sized condos, office buildings, boutique hotels.

• High-Rise Buildings:

  • Buildings with 13 stories or more.

  • Examples: Apartment towers, large office skyscrapers, major hotels.

Each building type has different legal requirements for fire protection, evacuation procedures, and system maintenance.

Fire Drills and Fire Testing: Step-by-Step

Fire drills and fire system tests aren't just about pulling the alarm — there’s a clear process to follow, especially in professionally managed buildings.

Fire Drill - Step-by-Step

1. Notify Building Occupants in Advance:

   • Let everyone know the date and time of the drill.

   • Post signs in common areas (e.g., lobbies, elevators).

2. Contact the Fire Alarm Monitoring Company:

   • Call your monitoring company before the drill starts.

   • Request the fire alarm system to be placed "offline" (so the fire department isn’t dispatched accidentally).

3. Announce the Drill Start:

   • Use the building’s PA system (if available) or start the drill according to the posted schedule.

4. Activate the Fire Alarm:

   • Trigger the alarm manually using a pull station or through the fire panel.

5. Evacuation:

   • Occupants should exit the building calmly using stairwells (never elevators).

   • Floor wardens or fire marshals assist anyone who needs help.

6. Monitor and Record Participation:

   • Supervisors track how quickly and safely people evacuate.

   • Note any issues, like blocked exits or confusion.

7. All-Clear Announcement:

   • After the drill, announce when it's safe to re-enter.

8. Contact the Monitoring Company Again:

   • Call back to put the fire alarm system "back online."

9. Debrief:

   • Review what went well and what needs improvement.

   • Update evacuation plans if necessary.

Fire Testing - Step-by-Step

(Often completed annually or semi-annually depending on the building type.)

1. Schedule Fire System Inspection:

   • Book a licensed fire protection company.

2. Notify Tenants and Staff:

   • Provide clear notice of testing dates and times.

3. Contact the Monitoring Company:

   • Before testing, place the system "offline."

4. Test Components:

   • Test manual pull stations, smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, audible alarms, strobe lights, and emergency lighting.

   • Test door holders, fire doors, and elevator recall functions if applicable.

5. Simulate Fire Conditions:

   • Technicians may trigger the alarm system and verify proper operation.

   • Sprinkler pressure and valve functionality are inspected.

6. Record Results:

   • Document all tests and any deficiencies.

7. Make Repairs if Needed:

   • Address any failures immediately or schedule repairs.

8. Reactivate Monitoring:

   • Confirm the system is back online with the monitoring company.

9. Report to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ):

   • Submit test results if required.

Generator Testing: Step-by-Step

Generators are critical for life safety systems (emergency lighting, fire alarms, elevators, etc.), especially in high-rise and mid-rise buildings. Here’s how testing is handled:

Monthly Generator Test

1. Notify Building Management:

   • Let building staff know when testing will occur.

2. Perform Monthly Test:

   • Start the generator and run it under load for at least 30 minutes.

   • Check voltage, frequency, oil pressure, coolant levels, and overall performance.

3. Inspect for Leaks or Alarms:

   • Walk around the unit and check for leaks, loose wires, or fault indicators.

4. Log Test Results:

   • Record runtime, load conditions, and any observed issues.

Annual Full Load Bank Test (More Comprehensive)

1. Hire a Certified Technician:

   • They will attach a load bank (artificial load) to the generator.

2. Run the Generator at Full Capacity:

   • Typically for 2 hours or more, ensuring it can handle emergency demands.

3. Monitor and Measure:

   • Check exhaust, cooling, and electrical output under maximum load.

4. Document Results:

   • Keep detailed records of all readings, repairs, and maintenance performed.

How Often Are Fire and Generator Tests Required?

Test Frequency

low rise medium rise high rise

Fire Drill (Residential) Once every 12 months - every 3 months - every month

Fire System Testing Annually (minimum), - semi-annual - monthly

Generator Monthly Test Monthly (min. 30 minutes) - monthly - weekly

Generator Full Load Bank Test Annually - 6months - 3 monts

Final Thoughts

Whether you're managing a cozy low-rise or a soaring high-rise, fire safety and emergency preparedness are essential.
Clear procedures, regular testing, and proactive maintenance ensure that when an emergency happens, everyone knows what to do — and critical systems are ready to respond.

Stay alert, stay safe, and remember: a little preparation today could save lives tomorrow.