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CAN/CGSB 191.1-2013: Safety Requirements for Soft Cover Temporary Shelters
Comprehensive Guide to Scope, Technical Specifications, and Compliance for Tents and Temporary Structures in Canada
The Canadian General Standards Board (CGSB) standard CAN/CGSB 191.1-2013, titled Safety of Soft Cover Temporary Shelters, establishes a comprehensive framework for improving the fire and structural safety of tents, canopies, and similar temporary fabric structures used in Canada. Developed following several high-profile tent fire incidents, the standard sets mandatory requirements for materials, design, anchoring, marking, and user instructions. This article provides an overview of its scope, key technical requirements, implementation considerations, and pathways to demonstrate compliance.
Scope and Application
CAN/CGSB 191.1-2013 applies to soft cover temporary shelters, including tents, canopies, shade structures, and fabric-covered buildings intended for short-term or seasonal occupancy. The standard covers shelters with a floor area exceeding 10 m² when used in public assembly, commercial, or institutional settings. Excluded are permanently erected structures, camping tents with a floor area less than 10 m² (unless used in high-risk occupancies), and inflatable structures covered by other standards. The scope addresses both fire performance and structural stability, with requirements scaled to the shelter size and intended use.
Technical Requirements
Flame Resistance
All soft cover materials used in the shelter envelope must meet stringent flame resistance criteria. The primary test method is CAN/CGSB-4.2 No. 27.5, which measures char length and afterflame time. Floor coverings are tested using critical radiant flux methods (e.g., ASTM E648 or NFPA 253). The table below summarizes key requirements.
| Component | Test Method | Maximum Char Length (mm) | Maximum Afterflame Time (s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wall / Roof Fabric | CAN/CGSB-4.2 No. 27.5 | 150 | 5 |
| Floor Covering | ASTM E648 / NFPA 253 | Critical radiant flux ≥ 0.45 W/cm² | N/A |
| Linings (Curtains, Drapes) | CAN/CGSB-4.2 No. 27.5 | 200 | 10 |
Tip: When purchasing a shelter, verify that the certification label lists the fire test standard and results. Materials without traceable test data cannot be assumed compliant.
Structural Stability and Stabilization
Shelters must be designed to resist anticipated wind loads based on geographic location, shelter geometry, and exposure conditions. The standard requires that for shelters with a floor area over 10 m², a structural analysis be performed using wind speeds derived from the National Building Code of Canada. Anchoring systems (e.g., ground stakes, ballast, tie-downs) must be rated to withstand uplift and lateral forces. The manufacturer must specify installation instructions that include anchor types, spacing, and required torque or embedment depth.
Warn: The number and strength of anchors must match the wind speed rating for the installation site. Using fewer anchors than specified or installing on hard surfaces without adequate ballast can lead to structural collapse.
Marking and User Information
Each shelter must bear a permanent, legible label affixed to the structure. The label must contain:
- Manufacturer’s name and contact information
- Model number and nominal floor area
- Maximum occupant load
- Design wind speed rating
- Date of manufacture
- Statement of conformance to CAN/CGSB 191.1-2013
In addition, the manufacturer must supply setup and maintenance instructions that include anchoring guidance, fire safety precautions, and inspection intervals.
Implementation Highlights
The requirements of the standard are scaled according to shelter categories based on floor area:
- Group 1 (Area ≤ 10 m²): Basic marking and limited flame resistance; structural analysis not required.
- Group 2 (10 m² < Area ≤ 40 m²): Full flame resistance testing, structural stability demonstration using simplified wind load calculations.
- Group 3 (Area > 40 m²): Full compliance including professional structural engineering certification, more rigorous fire testing, and third-party inspection requirements.
Manufacturers should work with accredited testing laboratories to obtain material certifications. Documentation including test reports, design calculations, and installation manuals must be kept for each model.
Success: Compliance with CAN/CGSB 191.1-2013 is widely accepted by Canadian authorities having jurisdiction and helps satisfy safety obligations under the National Building Code and occupational health and safety regulations.
Compliance and Certification
Compliance can be demonstrated through:
- Self-declaration with supporting test reports (acceptable for Group 1 and some Group 2 shelters).
- Third-party certification by a recognized body (recommended for Group 2 and mandatory for Group 3 shelters, especially when used for public assembly).
- A permanent label and accompanying documentation as specified in the standard.
Local building officials and fire marshals may request evidence of compliance at any time. Imported shelters must also meet these requirements before being offered for sale or use in Canada.
Danger: Shelters that do not meet the fire resistance criteria pose a serious fire hazard. Never use a tent that lacks a valid flame resistance certification label. In the event of a fire, non-compliant materials can lead to rapid flame spread and toxic smoke release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is CAN/CGSB 191.1-2013 mandatory in Canada?
A: The standard is referenced in provincial and territorial building codes, typically making it mandatory for temporary shelters used for assembly purposes or exceeding a certain size. Check with your local authority having jurisdiction.
A: The standard is referenced in provincial and territorial building codes, typically making it mandatory for temporary shelters used for assembly purposes or exceeding a certain size. Check with your local authority having jurisdiction.
Q: What is the difference between CAN/CGSB 191.1-2013 and the newer edition (e.g., 191.1-2018)?
A: The 2018 edition introduced more detailed wind load procedures, stricter requirements for larger shelters, and updated test methods. However, the 2013 edition remains a benchmark and is still accepted in many jurisdictions provided the product met the standard at the time of manufacture.
A: The 2018 edition introduced more detailed wind load procedures, stricter requirements for larger shelters, and updated test methods. However, the 2013 edition remains a benchmark and is still accepted in many jurisdictions provided the product met the standard at the time of manufacture.
Q: Does the standard apply to shade sails and gazebos?
A: Yes, the standard applies to any temporary shelter with a soft cover and a floor area exceeding 10 m², including shade sails and gazebos, provided they are not permanently attached to a structure. Always confirm with the manufacturer.
A: Yes, the standard applies to any temporary shelter with a soft cover and a floor area exceeding 10 m², including shade sails and gazebos, provided they are not permanently attached to a structure. Always confirm with the manufacturer.