I have to replace the drinking fountains in existing buildings (elementary and secondary schools) with bottle filling stations without bubblers. Is this allowed by the building and accessibility codes knowing the schools are mostly located in the Ottawa region?
Thank you for your guidance,
The language of NBC 2015 [3.8.2.8(9)] states that "where drinking fountains are provided..." one shall be barrier free.
You aren't providing water fountains, so 3.8.2.8(9) doesn't technically apply. But what's the intent?
Height and accessibility of controls [3.8.3.8] would still apply.
Bottom line: if at least one bottle station met the requirements of water fountains either under NBC 2015 or CSA B365, nobody would complain.
(Excerpt from CSA B365)
6.1.2 Controls
Controls shall
a) not be foot-operated;
b) allow the user to control the duration of flow;
c) comply with Clause 4.2; and
d) be located either on the front or on both sides of the fountain.
6.1.3 Floor area
A drinking fountain shall have a clear floor area of at least 800 × 1350 mm in front of the unit (see Figure 38).
6.1.4 Colour contrast
A drinking fountain shall be colour-contrasted with the background.
6.1.5 Cantilevered fountains
A cantilevered drinking fountain shall
a) be cane-detectable, recessed, or otherwise located out of the route of travel;
b) have a knee clearance between the bottom of the apron and the floor at least 800 mm wide × 200 mm deep × 685 mm high (see Figure 39); and
c) have a toe space at least 800 mm wide × 230 mm deep × 230 mm high
