In what scenario should fire drills be conducted more frequently than once a year?

Fire drills should be conducted more frequently than once a year in a facility with high occupant density because such environments present a greater risk in the event of a fire emergency. High occupant density means that there are many people within a limited space, which increases the potential for confusion and panic during an evacuation. More frequent fire drills help ensure that occupants are familiar with evacuation routes and procedures, which can significantly enhance their ability to react swiftly and effectively in a real emergency. Regular practice also allows building management to identify potential obstacles in evacuation plans and to refine the processes for a smoother exit in case of a fire, thereby improving overall safety in densely populated areas.

In contrast, buildings with fewer occupants or those that are rarely occupied do not face the same level of risk or complexity during emergencies, making annual drills more appropriate in those scenarios.