What does the term "life safety" refer to in residential building codes?

The term "life safety" in residential building codes refers specifically to the measures that are implemented to protect occupants in the event of emergencies, such as fires, natural disasters, or structural failures. This encompasses a wide range of safety features, including but not limited to, fire alarms, smoke detectors, egress requirements (such as exit routes and emergency exits), and structural integrity measures that ensure the stability of the building during a crisis.

These life safety measures are critical for ensuring that residents have a means of safe evacuation and are effectively protected from hazards. Residential building codes prioritize these safety protocols because the primary purpose of the code is to safeguard human life and minimize risk in residential environments.