In which situation is building evacuation considered standard procedure?

Building evacuation is considered standard procedure in situations where there is an open stairwell. Open stairwells provide a safe and accessible route for occupants to exit the building during an emergency, particularly a fire, when immediate evacuation is necessary. An open stairwell allows for the quick and efficient movement of people away from danger, reducing congestion and potential hazards in the escape process.

In contrast, while a public address system or verified fire warden are important for communication and coordination during an emergency, they do not inherently facilitate physical evacuation. A fully sprinkled building, although it helps in controlling fire, may not negate the necessity for evacuation in certain circumstances, such as when smoke or heat presents an immediate threat to occupants. Therefore, the presence of an open stairwell is crucial for standardizing evacuation protocols in an emergency.