The collapse zone of a building should be ______ the structure.

The collapse zone of a building is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals working near or around the structure during a demolition or when there are concerns about structural integrity. This zone is typically defined as a distance that is at least 1.5 times the height of the structure.

The rationale behind this measurement is based on the potential danger posed by falling debris or the risk of the building collapsing beyond its own height. By establishing the collapse zone at 1.5 times the height, it allows for a safer buffer zone that accounts for various factors, such as the likelihood of material protruding or falling further than the building’s original dimensions during a collapse.

The other options suggest distances that are either too short or disproportionately large when compared to the recognized best practices in safety management and structural stability. Therefore, the choice of 1.5 times the height represents an established safety standard that balances caution with practicality in emergency and construction scenarios.