Which is the Type I building construction classification?

• A. Ordinary construction
• B. Fire-resistive construction
• C. Non-combustible
• D. Heavy timber

Answer: (B)

Type I construction centers on maximum fire resistance. Buildings in this category are built with fire-resistive materials and protective assemblies designed to maintain structural integrity for a specified period during a fire, slowing collapse and giving occupants and responders more time to act. Commonly this involves concrete or protected steel frames with tightly partitioned floors and walls to achieve high fire-resistance ratings. That’s why this option best fits Type I.

Other classifications describe different approaches: ordinary construction refers to Type III, which has noncombustible exterior walls but often less fire resistance in the interior framing; non-combustible describes Type II, where both exterior and interior elements are noncombustible but without the same level of fire resistance as Type I; heavy timber corresponds to Type IV, using large timber members that rely on charring for inherent fire resistance.