If an escape hatch is 16 inches wide, what is the minimum length required?

To determine the minimum length required for an escape hatch that is 16 inches wide, it is important to refer to the relevant codes and standards that govern elevator installations and safety measures. Typically, escape hatches must provide sufficient space for a person to exit safely in an emergency situation.

The general requirement often suggests that the length of an escape hatch should be a minimum of 1.5 times the width. Therefore, if the hatch is 16 inches wide, multiplying that by 1.5 would yield a minimum length of 24 inches. This length is rounded up to meet safety regulations and ensure ample room for egress, leading us to the closest option provided.

In this case, while 25 inches is slightly above the calculated minimum, it ensures a more comfortable and safe escape route, which is crucial during emergencies. Hence, the answer indicating that the minimum length required is 25 inches aligns with these safety considerations, confirming that providing adequate exit dimensions is essential in elevator design and compliance with safety standards.