Question

during plan review, it was noted that the atrium in a mall lacks any mechanical smoke exhaust system. what code - based requirement is likely missing?
atriums are considered open - air zones and are exempt from ventilation rules.
bp 344 applies only if atriums are pwd assembly areas.
nbcp requires smoke vents and exhaust in large - volume spaces like atriums.
fire code allows passive vents as an alternative if daily occupancy is under 300.

Explanation:

Atriums in malls are large - volume spaces. Building codes such as NBCP often mandate smoke vents and exhaust systems for fire - safety in such areas to ensure proper smoke removal and occupant safety. The other options are either incorrect (atriums are not exempt from ventilation rules) or have inappropriate conditions (BP 344 applicability and passive vent alternative based on occupancy are not relevant here).

Answer:

N.BCP requires smoke vents and exhaust in large - volume spaces like atriums.