In smoke-protected assembly seating, what should the travel distance from each seat to the nearest entrance not exceed?

In smoke-protected assembly seating, the travel distance from each seat to the nearest entrance should not exceed 200 feet. This limitation is established to ensure a safe and efficient evacuation in the event of a fire or smoke incident. The shorter distance enhances the ability of occupants to quickly reach an exit, thereby reducing the risk of injury or panic.

The design criteria, including this travel distance, are based on life safety principles that prioritize immediate access to exits. Smoke-protected assembly areas commonly serve large audiences, making it critical to facilitate rapid egress. Exceeding this limit could lead to increased congestion and hinder the ability of individuals to escape in a timely manner during emergencies. Thus, maintaining this maximum travel distance is a vital component of building safety regulations.