For a 100 sq ft trash room with three 32-gallon containers in a healthcare facility, what hazardous area protection is required?

In healthcare facilities, trash rooms and the materials they contain can present fire hazards, so there are strict requirements for their construction and protection. The correct answer indicates that either a one-hour fire resistance rating or sprinklers combined with a smoke-resisting enclosure would suffice for a trash room of the specified size and container setup.

The rationale behind this is based on the nature and expected usage of a trash room. A one-hour fire resistance rating serves to contain any potential fire long enough to prevent it from spreading to other areas of the building, ensuring the safety of occupants and the integrity of the facility. On the other hand, a sprinkler system can effectively manage fire risks by delivering immediate suppression of flames, while a smoke-resisting enclosure limits the movement of smoke to other areas, thereby enhancing life safety.

In this scenario, the options provide flexibility, as either measure—or a combination of both—fulfills the necessary safety standards to protect occupants from potential fire hazards associated with the trash room's contents. This dual option approach recognizes that facilities can achieve safety in various ways, allowing for adaptability based on specific circumstances while adhering to life safety codes.