What does the occupancy type refer to in fire safety standards?

Occupancy type refers to the intended use or purpose of a building or building space, which is crucial in fire safety standards. Understanding the occupancy type helps fire safety officials determine the appropriate fire protection measures and safety protocols needed for that specific use. Different occupancy types have varying risks associated with fire hazards, and they dictate requirements for fire alarms, sprinkler systems, accessibility, and egress paths to ensure the safety of occupants.

Fire safety codes categorize buildings based on their intended use, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or assembly purposes. This classification influences the design and construction requirements that affect how fire incidents are managed. For example, a theater will have different fire safety requirements compared to an office building due to the expected number of occupants and the activities conducted within these spaces.