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Open Space

Open Space

The term open space refers to a designated area that remains permanently unobstructed to the sky to ensure safety and accessibility during an emergency. To meet the National Construction Code1 legal definition, the space should fulfill three specific criteria:

  • Location: It must be situated on the same allotment (property) as the building, or on a roof/platform that has been specifically engineered and protected against fire to allow for safe occupancy.
  • Exposure: The area must be open to the sky, meaning it cannot be enclosed by a ceiling or roof that would trap smoke or heat.
  • Access: It must provide a direct connection to a public road, ensuring that occupants can move from the building all the way to a safe point of dispersal without being trapped.
  • 1National Construction Code (NCC) 2022, Volume 1

The National Construction Code (NCC) defines the term open space as:

Open space1: A space on the allotment, or a roof or similar part of a building adequately protected from fire, open to the sky and connected directly with a public road.

  • 1

    National Construction Code (NCC) 2022, Volume 1

    Disclaimer

    In preparing this definition, we have drawn from various sources including Legislation, Codes, Standards and industry information, research and knowledge.  Like the english language, these definitions may subtly change from time to time. As such these definitions are provided solely on the basis that users will be responsible for making their own assessment of the definition and and are advised to verify all relevant representations, statements and information.