Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam

What is the fire resistance rating of an interior load bearing wall of Type IIA construction supporting only a roof?

1. 1

2. 2

3. 3

4. 0

The correct answer is: 1

The fire resistance rating of an interior load-bearing wall in Type IIA construction that is only supporting a roof is typically set at 1 hour. Type IIA construction is designed with non-combustible materials and includes certain fire resistance requirements that vary depending on the structural elements. In this case, the interior load-bearing wall's primary function is to support a roof, which does not impose the same level of risk as walls that may bear additional loads or provide vertical support for floors above. Therefore, the wall can be constructed to meet the minimum one-hour fire resistance rating. This rating is sufficient to provide adequate protection during a fire event, ensuring the structural integrity of the wall and allowing for safe evacuation. Understanding these ratings is critical, as they help ensure compliance with building codes and safety regulations while also influencing the design and materials choice in construction practices. This knowledge greatly assists in the planning and execution of safe building designs in line with fire safety standards.