The correct answer is that the affected area must not exceed 50,000 square feet for the impairment coordinator to act as fire watch. This limitation is critical for ensuring that fire safety protocols are effectively managed during any impairment situation.
The rationale behind this size restriction is primarily focused on the safety and practicality of monitoring fire hazards. When the area of impairment exceeds this size, the responsibility of maintaining a fire watch may require additional personnel to ensure comprehensive coverage and effective response in case of a fire emergency. Larger areas pose greater risk and complexity, potentially overwhelming a single fire watch individual, making it essential to establish limits based on size to ensure adequate fire safety measures are in place.
Thus, the 50,000 square feet threshold is a guideline aimed at balancing safety and resource allocation during times of fire system impairment.