Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

Which type of wall construction is acceptable for corridor walls in new buildings?

1. Constructed with at least a 1-hour fire resistance rating

2. No fire resistance required

3. Made entirely of glass

4. Constructed with at least a 1/2 hour fire resistance rating

The correct answer is: Made entirely of glass

The correct choice highlights the standards for corridor wall construction in new buildings, particularly in settings like nursing homes where safety regulations are paramount. Acceptable corridor walls should be constructed with materials that help prevent the spread of fire and safeguard the inhabitants of the facility. Options that suggest no fire resistance or those that specify a lower fire resistance rating do not adequately address the risk management required in healthcare environments. A wall with a fire resistance rating is crucial because it can help contain fires and protect residents, staff, and visitors from smoke and heat, enhancing overall safety in emergency situations. Using materials like glass for entire walls could lead to significant safety concerns, as glass does not provide the necessary fire resistance, potentially allowing a fire to spread more easily. Thus, proper materials and construction practices that adhere to fire safety codes are critical in these environments, necessitating a rating that demonstrates their ability to withstand fire for a specified duration.