Certified Healthcare Constructor (CHC) Practice Exam

How many smoke compartments must a floor have if patients sleep or are treated there?

1. 1

2. 2

3. 3

4. 4

The correct answer is: 2

In the context of healthcare facilities, smoke compartments are important for ensuring patient safety during a fire event. A smoke compartment refers to an area that is designed to limit the movement of smoke and heat within a building, allowing for safer evacuation and better protection for patients and staff. For floors where patients sleep or are treated, having two smoke compartments is generally required. This requirement helps to ensure that in the event of a smoke or fire emergency, patients can be more effectively evacuated and that staff can manage the situation more safely. Two compartments help to limit the spread of smoke and provide a barrier that can protect patients, especially those who might have mobility issues or require assistance during an evacuation. The reasoning behind having two compartments is to create a safer environment that accommodates the potential for smoke spread, giving ample time for both patients and staff to react appropriately in emergency situations. This setup also allows for better management of air pressure differentials that can help keep smoke contained. Further increasing the number of smoke compartments beyond two does not usually correspond to practical advantages in most healthcare settings, making the two-compartment requirement a standard practice in ensuring sufficient protection for vulnerable populations in these facilities.