What term describes a space within a building enclosed by smoke barriers required in office buildings over 100 feet high?

The term that refers to a space within a building that is enclosed by smoke barriers, particularly in office buildings that are over 100 feet high, is a smoke compartment. Smoke compartments are designed to limit the movement of smoke throughout the building during a fire event, thereby enhancing the safety of occupants and facilitating evacuation. By segmenting the building into these compartments, fire protection systems can effectively manage smoke, providing a means for both containment and safe egress routes.

This concept is critical in high-rise structures, where smoke movement can pose significant risks to life safety. Smoke compartments are an essential part of an effective fire protection plan and are required by building codes to help ensure the safety of the building's occupants in the event of an emergency.