General Contractor Practice Exam

What is the maximum distance to an exit in a building without automatic sprinklers?

1. 6 feet on center

2. 12 feet

3. 30 feet

4. 20 feet

The correct answer is: 6 feet on center

The maximum distance to an exit in a building without automatic sprinklers is established to ensure that occupants can safely and quickly reach an exit in case of an emergency. The correct answer indicates a requirement where individuals can be no more than six feet from a designated exit, signifying that an exit must be readily accessible and visible. This distance is particularly important in preventing panic and ensuring safety, as it minimizes the time occupants need to travel to reach safety. The rationale behind this shorter distance stems from the increased fire risk in unsprinklered buildings, necessitating more immediate access to escapes to enhance safety measures. In contrast, the other options suggest distances that do not align with safety protocols for unsprinklered buildings. Distances such as 12 feet, 20 feet, and 30 feet may be suitable in certain contexts or for different building classifications, especially when automatic sprinklers are present. However, these do not account for the heightened danger posed by the absence of such systems, underscoring the need for a closer exit in the case of a fire or emergency.