Coastal and Floodplain Construction Inspector's Practice Exam

Which systems are not allowed to be attached to breakaway walls?

1. Electrical, Mechanical

2. Electrical, Plumbing

3. Plumbing, Mechanical

4. Electrical, Plumbing or Mechanical

The correct answer is: Electrical, Plumbing or Mechanical

Breakaway walls are designed to collapse under specific force conditions such as flooding or significant storm surges, allowing for floodwaters to flow through without causing structural damage to the building itself. To ensure that breakaway walls effectively serve this purpose without compromising the safety and integrity of the overall structure, it is restricted to attach various systems to them. The correct answer indicates that no electrical, plumbing, or mechanical systems should be attached to breakaway walls. This is crucial because attaching these systems could lead to safety hazards should the walls collapse. For instance, electrical systems could become damaged, creating fire hazards or electric shock risks. Similarly, if plumbing is installed on breakaway walls, it could result in water contamination or leaks during failure. Mechanical systems, such as HVAC components, could also be severely affected, leading to costly repairs or failures that compromise the building's habitability. By prohibiting all types of connections to breakaway walls, regulations aim to minimize risk and ensure that structures can survive extreme flood conditions without posing additional dangers. This understanding helps reinforce the broader principles of safe coastal and floodplain construction practices, focusing on resilience and safety.