Inspectors are not required to confirm occupant load calculations, but if the occupant load appears to be obviously incorrect, knowing where to reference means for calculating occupancy loads may be helpful. Occupancy loads may be affected by renovations or changes in building configuration.
1004.1.1 Cumulative Occupant Loads
1004.1.2 Areas Without Fixed Seating
| TABLE 1004.1.2 MAXIMUM FLOOR AREA ALLOWANCES PER OCCUPANT |
| This table provides occupant load factors (minimum square footage per person) for spaces of various functions. |
1004.2 Increased Occupant Load
1004.3 Posting of Occupant Load
Every room or space that is an assembly occupancy should have the occupant load of the room or space posted in a conspicuous place, near the main exit or exit access doorway from the room or space. Posted signs should be of an approved legible permanent design and should be maintained by the owner or the owner's authorized agent.
Assembly Occupancy:
1. Used for a gathering of 50 or more persons for deliberation, worship, entertainment, eating, drinking, amusement, awaiting transportation, or similar uses; or
2. Used as a special amusement building, regardless of occupant load.
Assembly occupancies might include the following: Armories, assembly halls, auditoriums, club rooms, dance halls, drinking establishments and exhibition halls among others.
1004.6 Multiple Occupancies
Where a building contains two or more occupancies, the means of egress requirements should apply to each portion of the building based on the occupancy of that space. Where two or more occupancies utilize portions of the same means of egress system, those egress components should meet the more stringent requirements of all occupancies that are served.