Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which design is considered the best for inside stairwells in terms of fire safety?

1. Open stairway with no protection

2. Smoke proof tower with pressurized stair tower

3. Standard enclosed stairwell

4. Exterior fire escape ladder

The correct answer is: Smoke proof tower with pressurized stair tower

A smoke proof tower with a pressurized stair tower is considered the best design for inside stairwells with respect to fire safety due to its ability to enhance the safety of occupants evacuating a building during a fire. In such designs, the stairwell is pressurized, which helps prevent smoke from entering the escape route. This is crucial because smoke can be more dangerous than flames in many fire situations, leading to panic, disorientation, and decreased visibility. Additionally, the construction of a smoke proof tower allows for a safe refuge during a fire event, as it provides a designated path for escape that is less likely to be compromised by smoke or fire than less secure designs. This design focuses on maintaining clear, breathable air in the stairwell, significantly improving the chances of survival for individuals exiting the building. In contrast, an open stairway with no protection poses a significant risk as smoke can easily migrate into the staircase, jeopardizing the safety of anyone attempting to use it for evacuation. A standard enclosed stairwell may provide some protection but does not necessarily feature the same level of smoke prevention as a pressurized system, which can compromise its effectiveness during a fire. An exterior fire escape ladder, while useful in certain scenarios, lacks the integrated safety measures and press