Where multiple occupancies are present in a building and the exit access from one occupancy traverses another occupancy, the multiple occupancy:

The correct approach when multiple occupancies are present in a building, and the exit access from one occupancy traverses another occupancy, is to treat it as a mixed occupancy. This classification is essential because it recognizes that different occupancies can have varying levels of risk, occupancy loads, and safety requirements.

Under mixed occupancy conditions, the safety provisions of the more hazardous occupancy are typically applied to ensure that adequate protection measures are in place. This is especially crucial for exit access, as it must be safe and clear. By treating the setup as a mixed occupancy, it allows for a common set of safety standards that ensure the protection of all occupants moving through shared areas.

In contrast to treating it as separated or prohibiting exit access traversing another occupancy, classifying it as a mixed occupancy ensures that safety measures accommodate the needs of various uses within the same building while maintaining compliance with safety codes and regulations.