What must a fire safety plan for institutions include regarding building structure?

A fire safety plan for institutions must include consideration of occupants' self-sufficiency because ensuring that individuals can effectively respond to a fire emergency is crucial to their safety. Self-sufficiency in this context refers to the ability of occupants to take appropriate action, such as using emergency exits, following evacuation routes, and utilizing fire safety equipment like alarms and extinguishers without relying solely on external assistance.

This approach is integral to a comprehensive safety plan as it empowers occupants with knowledge and tools to protect themselves and others effectively, which can significantly reduce the risk of injuries or fatalities during a fire incident. Training and drills that educate occupants on fire safety procedures and the building's layout also support this self-sufficiency.

In contrast, while innovative design features and cultural significance can enhance a building's functionality and heritage, they do not directly address the immediate need for occupants to act independently and safely in the event of a fire. Thus, while these factors might be valuable in other contexts, they are secondary to the primary goal of ensuring occupants' safety through self-sufficient actions during emergencies.