What is an example of a significant or exceptional circumstance that a judge might encounter?

A table collapsing during play serves as a significant or exceptional circumstance because it poses an immediate physical safety hazard and disrupts the game in a profound way. Such an event is unexpected and outside the typical scope of gameplay issues judges encounter. It requires immediate attention to ensure the safety of all players involved and to address the logistical implications—such as reestablishing the game state, ensuring player integrity, and managing the game environment post-incident.

While the other scenarios can lead to issues that judges handle regularly, none reach the level of severity or urgency presented by a physical collapse. A rules misunderstanding or a slow player are situations that can be managed using standard infraction procedures, and while noise levels in the area may create discomfort, they typically do not warrant the same urgent intervention that a physical danger like a collapsing table does.