Classification of occupancies of fire hazard NFPA-13

One of the most critical steps in applying NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, and other building and fire codes to a space is identifying the correct occupancy classification. The occupancy classification drives the requirements for many different fire and life safety features. These requirements reflect the unique and expected characteristics of the anticipated occupants of that space such as, capability of self-preservation, familiarity with the space, age, and alertness. Improperly classifying a building or space risks over- or under-applying necessary code requirements, resulting in buildings lacking fire and life safety features, or containing additional fire and life safety features that are not required by the Code.

While the majority of the NFPA developed codes and standards use occupancy classifications consistent with the Life Safety Code, including NFPA 5000, Building Construction and Safety Code, other organizations’ codes and standards may differ. This can create challenges for the designer when multiple codes and standards are applicable and enforced in a jurisdiction. Perhaps one of the more common scenarios is when both the International Building Code (IBC) and the Life Safety Code apply. Below is a table comparing the different occupancy classifications between the IBC and NFPA 101/5000. One thing to note is that although some of the occupancies seem to correlate obviously, there may be differences between details within the definitions, such as minimum number of occupants, that could result in a different classification.

#nfpa-13_BD
#engr_bulbul