Code Compliance For Automatic Door Operators In Alberta

Multifamily / Industrial / Commercial

Alberta Building Code Compliance for Automatic Door Operators

Understanding Code Compliance

Bringing your customers what they need safely, efficiently, & securely.

For many of our clients, navigating Canada's complex and often confusing code environment can be a struggle. We are inundated with US-centric content and AI search, and figuring out what you need for your business here in Alberta can be difficult for those unfamiliar with how our code structure works. That is why we have worked with so many clients to work through their issues and provide code-compliant solutions that work in Edmonton, Alberta, that not only help their commercial or multifamily business now but also make their retrofits or replacements future-proof.

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Alberta Building Codes | National Building Codes | Accessibility Design

The Code Picture in Canada

Building codes in Canada are clear and concise by international standards, especially if you are familiar with the industry and know what to look for. Here in Alberta, the building code of the land is the National Building Code- Alberta Edition. This is the gospel for commercial and multifamily builds and details everything from door layouts to foundations and load-bearing wall minimums. However, Alberta has gone a step further and provides builders and contractors with the Accessibility Design Guide, which helps commercial and multifamily buildings consider accessibility in their design and provides details on how to build barrier-free spaces. These two documents govern the code picture here in Alberta, and our commercial door and accessibility experts know and understand these codes and design guides like the back of our hand. 

National Building Code | Alberta


The National Building Code- Alberta Edition is the main governing code for the vast majority of buildings in Alberta. The code is designed to provide a baseline for all commercial and multifamily buildings to allow users to safely enjoy these spaces. On the accessibility and commercial door side, the Alberta Edition is very similar to the National Building Code, but differs in its requirement for dual-height activation switches in accessible washrooms. Key parts of the Alberta Edition also include minimum clear widths, maneuvering space, and power-operated activation controls.

Accessibility Design Guide | Alberta


Now, the National Building Code- Alberta Edition is the regulatory standard in the province, but the Accessibility Design Guide is an interpretive resource and companion manual designed specifically for accessibility and barrier-free design. This design guide is a best-practice document for the province and goes above and beyond the minimum code requirements. These best practices have been developed in collaboration with users and are designed to create more inclusive spaces for seniors, people with disabilities, and anyone who needs a little more time or help to use a space. Generally, building or renovating to the design guide will future-proof your investment and ensure your space is usable and functional for all users.

How does this compare to ADA compliance?

As we see so much US content here in Alberta, ADA compliance is one of those buzzwords that we hear a lot. The Americans with Disabilities Act is a federal civil rights law in the United States, and many large companies will advertise that their components or features are ADA-compliant. 

 

 In Canada, it is more of a marketing term than anything else, and accessibility standards are different in Alberta. The ADA is a far-reaching piece of legislation at the federal level, while the National Building Code- Alberta Edition and Alberta Accessibility Design Guides focus on the physical environment of a building and focus on new builds. Least to say, ADA compliance is a great thing, but when it comes to building your commercial building in Edmonton, AB, the National Building Code- Alberta Edition is what you need to meet.

How do federally regulated buildings fit into this?


Federally regulated buildings are spaces that are occupied by the federal government or a facility that is home to a federally regulated enterprise like a bank, airport or radio and television broadcast studios. These buildings do not need to meet the Alberta Edition of the National Building Code and instead will need to meet the general National Building Code. They also have specific accessibility standards, such as CAN/ASC 2.3, the built environment standard that ensures these properties meet accessibility requirements for federal buildings.

What kind of doors require a certified installer?


Buildings that want to use automatic doors that meet the American Association of Automatic Door Manufacturers definition of an automatic door must have the Association certify the Installer to install, repair, and replace them. The code itself in Canada does not mandate this, but the industry standard has been to limit sales of automatic door systems and parts to certified installers. Other door types that require or strongly recommend a certified installer for installation or replacement include commercial fire doors and closures, commercial rolling steel fire doors, and overhead garage doors. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Getting you reliable solutions & honest answers.

  • Do you provide automatic door services?

    No, here at Accesio we are proud to offer low-energy door installations, repairs and replacement services across Edmonton. We do not work on automatic door operators, door systems or sensors.

  • Is the Alberta Design Guide different from the Barrier-Free Design Guide?

    The Alberta Design Guide replaced the Barrier-Free Design Guide in 2024. The Safety Codes Council officially rebranded the design guide based on user feedback and wanted to move away from traditional barrier-free thinking, shifting to a more modern approach with accessibility and universal design at the heart of the guide.

  • If I follow the Alberta Design Guide, will I pass my building inspection?

    The Alberta Design Guide is not a legal document and is not considered a code standard here in Alberta. However, the guide is designed to be above and beyond the code that is found in the National Building Code, and you should not have any issues passing a building inspection if you build your spaces with the design guide as the goal. However, if there is an issue, the inspector will defer to the wording in the National Building Code- Alberta Edition rather than the Design Guide.

  • Is the National Building Code – Alberta Edition retroactive?

    No, the National Building Code- Alberta Edition is not retroactive. However, it does apply if you are completing renovations that add an addition, make major structural alterations, or change the occupancy type of the space. In these cases, your building will no longer be grandfathered in and will need to meet the current code requirements.

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We keep it simple, our security, smart tech, and access control systems are affordable. Versatile enough to integrate seamlessly with your existing systems, so you can get an upgrade without an overhaul. If you still prefer your existing equipment, cameras, keys, cards, and fobs, no problem. We can enhance them with various types of remote access features to the best fully integrated security solutions in Edmonton.

45+ Years Of Experience


The team behind Accesio Control are experts in access control, automation, and security systems, with more than 45 years of experience and industry knowledge. We stay up to date with this rapidly evolving industry every day so our clients don’t have to. We’re passionate about the premium technology and quality solutions we can offer residential, commercial, and multifamily property owners. Everything starts with a conversation and, like our products, our professionals are always accessible when you need them most.

Canada's Largest Inventory


Through our exclusive distribution partner, we’re proud to stock all major brands and the newest technology innovations including hands-free and anti-microbial hardware as well as panic bars, card readers, fob systems and more. Our security and access control company in Edmonton is happy to bring our local customers the Canadian equipment and products they are looking and making it as easy as possible. 

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