What does the term "occupant load" refer to?

The term "occupant load" specifically refers to the maximum number of occupants that a space can safely accommodate based on its design, usage, and safety considerations. This concept is critical in life safety planning as it helps ensure that the building can support the required number of occupants without compromising safety during emergencies, such as evacuations.

By determining occupant load, architects and safety professionals can assess necessary factors like the width of exits, the number of exits needed, and overall building design to ensure it meets safety codes and regulations. The occupant load is calculated based on occupancy classifications established in the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) codes, considering different activities that might occur within a space.

Understanding occupant load is essential for compliance with safety regulations and for designing effective evacuation plans, ensuring that in the event of an emergency, all occupants can exit the building safely and within a reasonable time.