In a Type II constructed building, fire severity is determined by the...

• A. Structural members inside the building
• B. Contents inside the structure
• C. Exterior finish
• D. Ventilation system

Answer: (B)

In Type II construction, fire severity is driven by the fuel load inside the building—the contents. Since the structural frame and most finishes are noncombustible, they don’t contribute much fuel for the fire. The amount and type of contents—furniture, plastics, chemicals, and other combustibles—determine how much energy the fire can release, how fast it grows, and how much smoke and heat are produced. While ventilation can affect growth rate and interior/exterior finishes can influence spread, the inside contents set the baseline for how severe the fire can become.