Availability of keys or special devices needed to operate fire alarm systems or provide access to fire protection systems or equipment.

This applies to buildings or areas described in Article 2.8.1.1.:

• buildings containing an assembly or a care or detention occupancy,
• buildings required by the National Building Code of Canada to have a fire alarm system,
• demolition and construction sites regulated under Section 5.6. of the NFC,
• storage areas required to have a fire safety plan, as stated in Articles 3.2.2.5. and 3.3.2.9.,
• areas where flammable liquids or combustible liquids are stored or handled, as stated in Article 4.1.5.5., and
• areas where hazardous processes or operations occur, as stated in Article 5.1.5.1.

This also applies to:

• storage areas required to have a fire safety plan, as stated in Articles 3.1.2.6. and 3.2.2.5.,
• areas where flammable liquids or combustible liquids are stored or handled, as stated in Article 4.3.13.5.,
• areas where hazardous processes or operations occur, as stated in Articles 5.2.3.7. and 5.5.3.1.,
• tents and air-supported structures, as stated in Sentence 2.9.3.4.(2), and
• covered malls, as stated in Sentence 2.12.1.1.(2).

To limit the probability that supervisory staff will be delayed in operating fire alarm systems or providing access to fire protection systems or equipment in a fire situation, which could lead to delays or ineffectiveness in carrying out emergency response operations, which could lead to the spread of fire, which could lead to damage to the building.