Occupancy Groups

Introduction:

Occupancy Groups are defined by building code in order to help categorize and classify the use of spaces. These influence and control so many different things such as maximum allowable area to build, along with how the building must be separated from other buildings, how many people can be in rooms and much more.

When figuring out a building location and size, the occupancy group of the structure, along with its construction type go hand in hand.

Definition

Ancillary: having a subordinate, subsidiary, or secondary nature, or serving as a supplement or addition.

Accessory: a thing which can be added to something else in order to make it more useful, versatile, or attractive.

Automatic Door Closing: A door that is normally held in the open position but is released to close on activation by a smoke detector or other type of fire alarm system. An automatic closing door must be self-closing.

Occupancy Group

The occupancy group of a building or interior space is its use - every single building or portions of a building get classified according to the space's main use/function. Uses are grouped into occupancy classes based on similar life-safety characteristics, fire hazards, and combustible contents.

• If a particular program does not seem to fit any of the categories, the Architect should consult with the local building official for a determination of the occupancy classification of that project.