What is a critical feature of the public address system in a high-rise building?

The crucial feature of the public address system in a high-rise building is that it is designed to be clearly heard by all occupants. This is essential for effective communication during an emergency situation, such as a fire, where timely and clear information can help guide occupants to safety. The system must overcome background noise, which may be significant in a tall building, and ensure that messages can be delivered at a volume and clarity that all individuals, regardless of their location within the building, can understand.

Having a reliable and audible public address system contributes significantly to the overall safety plan of a high-rise structure, allowing for instructions and updates to be disseminated rapidly, ensuring that occupants are informed of evacuation procedures or other critical information. This feature is vital for minimizing confusion and ensuring that everyone can hear critical announcements, especially in high-stress situations.

The other options do not align with the core purpose of the public address system. For example, if the system were operated manually by staff, it could lead to delays and a lack of cohesive communication during emergencies. Systems that are only activated during emergencies would not serve the function of ongoing preparedness and reassurance. Additionally, restricting the system to lobby use would severely limit its effectiveness, as many occupants may be located far from the lobby during