Where must exit access doorways be placed in a building that is NOT sprinklered?

In buildings that are not equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, the placement of exit access doorways is critical for ensuring effective egress in the event of an emergency. The correct answer emphasizes significant distance in the layout of the building by stating that exit access doorways should be located at equal to or greater than half the length of the overall diagonal.

This requirement is based on principles of fire safety and egress design, ensuring that occupants have reasonable access to exit routes from any point within the building. By placing exit access doorways at least halfway along the diagonal, it provides adequate distribution of exits throughout the space, which is essential for reducing travel distance to safety and minimizing congestion during an evacuation.

Understanding this layout helps ensure that individuals can quickly reach an exit without excessive travel distance, which is particularly important in the absence of sprinklers that could control a fire. Buildings with more extensive exit access pathways give more flexibility and minimize the risk of creating bottlenecks in the escape route.

Other options suggest alternative distances that don't align with safety standards designed to prioritize occupant safety in unsprinklered spaces. Selecting appropriate distances rooted in code requirements helps designers create effective exit plans that ensure a safer environment for all building users.