Interpretation #8061
Published February 09, 2018
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2017
- Code
- ACCSCODE
- Code Description
- Chapter
- Section
- 201.1.1
- Topic
- Vertical Accessibility
Question
Is it the intent of Section 201.1.1, exception 3, to calculate the maximum of 5 persons based on the area allowances per occupant as prescribed in Table 1004.1.2?
Answer Published 02/09/2018 at 11:25 AM
The correct answer as determined by the Florida Building Commission, the Accessibility Advisory Council, and the Accessibility TAC is no. The occupant load for these purposes is based on the intended occupancy of the area.
Commentary
The FBC Building Volume and the Accessibility Volume both define Occupant Load as "the number of persons for which the means of egress of a building or portion of a building is designed". FBC 1004.1 states "In determining means of egress requirements, the number of occupants for whom means of egress facilities are provided shall be determined in accordance with this section". Therefore, the number of occupants in the scenario described is correct at 9 persons. However, the building official is allowed to accept a lower occupant load as permitted per the Exception to 1004.1.2, areas without fixed seating.