ICC Certified Fire inspector One Practice Test

What is the minimum fire rating requirement for horizontal exits?

1. 1 hour

2. 2 hours

3. 3 hours

4. 4 hours

The correct answer is: 2 hours

The minimum fire rating requirement for horizontal exits is 2 hours. This standard is in place to ensure that horizontal exits, which are designed to provide a safe means of egress to individuals in case of a fire, can withstand fire exposure long enough to protect occupants as they evacuate. The reasoning behind the 2-hour rating is based on the need to slow down the spread of fire and smoke, thereby giving people adequate time to exit safely. Having a 2-hour fire rating helps mitigate the risk associated with potential fire hazards, particularly in larger or more complex structures where the distance to safety may be significant. This rating is established in various building and fire codes, including the International Building Code (IBC), which provides guidance on the necessary fire-resistance ratings for different elements of buildings, including exits.