12/20/2025
1. Ontario Fire Code Now Explicitly References S536-19
• As of January 1, 2026, Ontario’s Fire Code updates reference CAN/ULC-S536:2019 (Standard for Inspection and Testing of Fire Alarm Systems) and CAN/ULC-S537:2019 (Verification of Fire Alarm Systems) for both annual inspections and verification after installation/modification. 
Why this matters:
Before this change, Ontario’s Fire Code either referenced older editions or didn’t clearly mandate the newer national standards. The update harmonizes Ontario with modern national practice. 2. More Thorough and Standardized Inspection Criteria
Under the new S536-19 standard, fire alarm inspections are much more detailed and prescriptive. Key enhancements include: 
✔ Device-level testing: Every system component (initiating devices, notification devices, supervision circuits, etc.) must be individually tested and documented.
✔ Expanded battery testing: Batteries must be tested under functional load (not just basic voltage checks), giving a realistic indication of performance in emergencies. 
✔ Isolator/fault testing: More complete fault and isolator testing ensures that partial system faults don’t compromise overall performance. 
✔ Standardized documentation: Official S536 forms are required — no custom checklists. Reports must clearly differentiate deficiencies (issues that must be corrected) from recommendations. 
Why this matters:
These changes eliminate inconsistencies between vendors and inspections, improve accountability, and give fire officials uniform, verifiable documentation for compliance checks. 3. Stronger Accountability and Recordkeeping
The new standard adds formal recordkeeping expectations: 
• Technician attendance logs (names, time on site).
• Monthly inspection logs in standardized format.
• On-site documentation that describes the system functions, circuits, device locations, operating sequences, drawings, and previous reports. 
Why this matters:
Better records help owners defend against liability and fines, and help fire authorities quickly verify compliance during inspections.
