Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS)

What is the maximum travel distance for an existing, unsprinklered healthcare facility occupancy?

1. 75 ft

2. 100 ft

3. 150 ft

4. 200 ft

The correct answer is: 150 ft

In healthcare facilities that are unsprinklered, the maximum travel distance to an exit can be determined by the life safety requirements outlined in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, particularly NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code. For existing healthcare facilities, the maximum travel distance is typically 150 feet when the area is not protected by an automatic sprinkler system. This limitation is designed to ensure that occupants have a reasonable distance to reach a safe exit, minimizing the time they may be exposed to smoke or fire hazards. Understanding why 150 feet is the specified limit provides insight into the considerations made by safety codes. For unsprinklered healthcare occupancies, the distance is kept shorter compared to sprinkled areas, as sprinklers significantly mitigate the risks of fire spread and contribute to occupant safety. To maintain compliance and promote safety, it is critical for facilities to adhere to these limitations, thereby ensuring that evacuation routes remain accessible and effective during emergencies.