Which system is designed to prevent or significantly reduce smoke intrusion into egress stairways for safe occupant exit?

Stairway pressurization is specifically designed to maintain a higher air pressure in stairwells compared to adjacent areas during a fire incident. This pressure differential prevents smoke from infiltrating the stairwell, ensuring that it remains a safe egress route for occupants trying to exit the building. By effectively keeping smoke out, stairway pressurization enhances visibility and respiratory conditions, significantly reducing the risk of smoke inhalation as people make their way to safety.

In contrast, a smoke control system, while related, encompasses a broader range of strategies, including active measures to manage smoke movement within a building rather than focusing narrowly on stairway safety. A ventilation system might help reduce smoke accumulation but is not specifically designed for egress scenarios; its primary function is to exchange or circulate air within a space. Lastly, a fire suppression system primarily aims to extinguish fires rather than control smoke movement in exit structures. Thus, each of the other options serves important functions in fire safety, but none specifically addresses the need for preserving clear egress routes through effective stairway pressurization.