Evaluating Occupant Load Factors For Business Operations

Fire Protection Research Foundation report: "Evaluating Occupant Load Factors For Business Operations"
Author: Tudor Muha, Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Date of issue: April 2012

FULL REPORT*
"Evaluating Ocupant Load Factors For Business Operations" (PDF, 2 MB)

Download the excutive summary. (PDF, 60 KB)

* All Fire Protection Research Foundation reports can be downloaded for free. Printed copies are $50, except where otherwise noted. If all reports in a subject category are requested, a 20% discount applies. Please pre-pay by check or money order to the The Fire Protection Research Foundation. You may also pay using VISA, Mastercard or American Express. E-mail the Foundation or call +1 617 984-7443.

Foreword
The current occupant load factor of 100ft2/person, as specified by NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, and NFPA 5000, Building Construction and Safety Code, for business uses has been in effect since the 1930’s. Business use areas, specifically office environments, have changed since that time, and questions have arisen regarding the appropriateness of the 100ft2/person factor for all types of business use areas. This study investigates the origins of the 100ft2/person factor, previous occupant load studies, changes in office space planning and use, availability of office furnishings, and current office occupant load preferences, then recommends alternate occupant load factors and business use categories.