Interpretation #8323
Published October 02, 2019
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2017
- Code
- BUILDING
- Code Description
- Chapter
- CHAPTER 3
- Section
- 303.1.1, FBC, BUILDING
- Topic
- Small Buildings and Tenant Spaces
Question
Is it the intent of Section 303.1.1 to allow for the recalculation of the occupant load (using the business occupant load factor) after it has initially been determined (using the assembly occupant load factor) that a building or tenant spaced being used for assembly purposes (small restaurant) has an occupant load of less than 50 persons which results in the space being classified as a Group B occupancy?
Answer Published 10/02/2019 at 9:25 AM
You have to follow code path, so you would first recognize it as an A2 use due to it being a food service. Then Section 303.1.1 (after you have determined the occupant load) classifies it as a Group B. This allows the design professional to meet code compliance to a business use. Chapter 10 means of egress requirements are reduced to allow a single exit, travel distance reductions and such for the "Business" use instead of the "assembly" requirements.
It appears to meet the group "B" classification
It appears to meet the group "B" classification
Commentary
None.