A high-hazard occupancy less than 200 ft² (18.6 m²) in size, and with an occupant load not exceeding three, requires a second means of egress when…

According to NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, high-hazard occupancies generally require a minimum of two means of egress. However, an exception is permitted for small rooms or areas. A single means of egress is allowed if the room is not larger than 200 ft² (18.6 m²), is occupied by not more than three persons, and the travel distance to the exit does not exceed 25 ft (7.6 m). Therefore, if the travel distance is greater than 25 ft (7.6 m), a second means of egress becomes mandatory, even if the other conditions are met.

A. This value is significantly less than the 25 ft (7.6 m) maximum travel distance permitted by the code for this specific exception.

B. This value is less than the 25 ft (7.6 m) maximum travel distance permitted by the code for this specific exception.

C. This value is less than the 25 ft (7.6 m) maximum travel distance permitted by the code for this specific exception.

1. NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code®, 2021 Edition. Chapter 40, "High-Hazard Contents," Section 40.2.4.1, Exception. The text states: "Rooms or areas shall be permitted to have a single means of egress where the travel distance to the exit or to a separate smoke compartment does not exceed 25 ft (7.6 m), and the room or area is occupied by not more than three persons and is not larger than 200 ft² (18.6 m²)."

2. SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering, 5th Edition. Chapter 54, "Means of Egress," Section 54.5.1, "Number of Exits." This chapter affirms that egress requirements, including the number of exits and travel distance limitations, are prescribed by codes like NFPA 101 and are based on occupancy hazard, area, and occupant load, with specific exceptions for low-risk scenarios. (Publisher: Springer, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4939-2562-454).

3. Kirk's Fire Investigation, 8th Edition. Chapter 18, "Building and Fire Codes." This text explains that codes such as NFPA 101 establish minimum life safety requirements, including the number of exits based on factors like hazard level and travel distance, and details specific exceptions for limited-use or low-occupancy spaces.