In Type I buildings exceeding height/area limitations, which components must be fire resistive?

• A. Beams and Columns
• B. Walls and/or Floors
• C. Roofs and Ceilings
• D. Doors and Windows

Answer: (B)

In Type I fire-resistive construction, when a building goes beyond its allowed height or area, the emphasis is on maintaining compartmentalization through fire barriers. The elements that define these barriers are walls and floors. These assemblies are rated to resist fire for a specified period, helping to contain a fire, protect egress paths, and limit spread between occupancies and levels. While structural members, roofs, ceilings, doors, and windows all play roles in fire protection, the primary requirement to keep the building segmented under higher-than-allowed limits is that the walls and/or floors be fire resistive.