Section 1: Scope of application

The provisions of this chapter do not preclude more stringent provisions for establishments open to the public, within the meaning of article R. 143-2 of the French Construction and Housing Code, or for residential buildings.They do not apply to high-rise buildings, within the meaning ofarticle R. 146-3 of the French Construction and Housing Code, for which specific provisions apply.

The application of the provisions relating to fire prevention and evacuation laid down for new constructions or new developments in Chapter VI of Title I exempts the application of the equivalent measures in this chapter.

The theoretical number of people likely to be present to be taken into account for the application of this chapter comprises the number of workers plus, where applicable, the number of members of the public likely to be admitted, calculated in accordance with the rules relating to the protection of the public against the risks of fire and panic in establishments open to the public.