The type of use and number of occupants that is permitted in a space.

Reference

*International Building Code, Chapter 3, Use and Occupancy Classification.

In the simplest terms, the occupant load of buildings, or areas within buildings are based on the size, function, and location, as well as by local health and safety requirements. In the U.S., this classification is determined by the International Building Code (IBC) but may vary by country or municipality based on their regulations.

This classification is based on the function of a space and includes the following groups Assembly (A), Business (B), Educational (E), Factory and Industrial (F), High Hazard (H), Institutional (I), Mercantile (M), Residential (R), Storage (S), and Utility and Miscellaneous (U).*

Occupancy loads are developed with the goal of protecting people in buildings from the presence of a fire. They also provide guidelines for sprinkler location and egress requirements. An interior designer should understand occupancy constraints and design accordingly, whether it concerns positioning of partitions, furniture layouts, or coordination with lighting and electrical contractors.

In any rooms or spaces qualified as assembly for gathering purposes, the occupant load must be clearly posted in a visible location near the main exit. This sign may be referenced during periodic inspection by the fire marshal or building officials.