Required exit access travel distances can be increased up to an additional _____ ft, provided the last portion of the exit access leading to the exit occurs on an exterior egress balcony.

The correct answer indicates that required exit access travel distances can be increased by an additional 100 feet if the last portion of the exit access leads to an exterior egress balcony. This provision is rooted in building safety codes that recognize the increased safety provided by external areas designed specifically for egress. Exterior egress balconies often allow for better visibility, access to fresh air, and are typically less congested than interior corridors.

By allowing a longer exit access distance under these circumstances, code officials acknowledge the reduced risk associated with exterior paths compared to fully enclosed routes. Balconies are usually also constructed to provide additional safety measures, such as guardrails, which further enhance egress options for occupants during emergencies.

This additional distance rule supports both the efficiency of architectural design and the safety of building occupants by providing flexibility in layout while still adhering to safety protocols. Understanding this concept helps inspectors ensure compliance with safety regulations in commercial buildings.