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What does compartmentalisation in safety design aim to achieve?

  1. Increase space for personnel

  2. Contain hazards within specific areas

  3. Facilitate easier access and maintenance

  4. Reduce the total number of personnel on-site

The correct answer is: Contain hazards within specific areas

Compartmentalisation in safety design primarily aims to contain hazards within specific areas. This method involves creating physical barriers or designated zones in a facility or environment, which can effectively limit the spread of hazardous materials, fire, or toxic substances. By designing spaces in this manner, it helps protect other areas of the building or installation from potential harm, thereby enhancing the overall safety for personnel. This approach not only helps in minimizing risks but also makes it easier to manage emergencies, as hazards are localized. For example, in a fire scenario, compartmentalisation can prevent the fire from spreading to other sections of the building, allowing for a safer evacuation of personnel and easier response by emergency services. The other options do not align closely with the fundamental purpose of compartmentalisation. While increasing personnel space, facilitating access, and reducing the number of personnel might be relevant to various aspects of facility design or safety protocols, they do not directly reflect the primary goal of containing hazards and enhancing safety.