What safety characteristic is essential in Type 1 construction?

The essential safety characteristic of Type 1 construction is its required fire resistance, specifically a minimum of 2 hours. Type 1 construction, often referred to as fire-resistive construction, is designed to withstand high temperatures and prevent the spread of fire for a specified duration, thereby enhancing the safety of occupants and the integrity of the structure during a fire event. This characteristic is crucial because it helps ensure that the building can endure fire exposure and offers critical time for evacuation and fire department intervention.

This form of construction predominantly uses non-combustible materials, which contribute to its overall strength and performance in case of a fire. By establishing a fire-resistance rating of at least 2 hours, Type 1 construction provides a significant barrier that limits the potential for fire to propagate and protects the structural elements, ultimately enhancing not only safety but also property protection.