It is important to understand what types of facilities we are discussing before we get into how these are classified differently. One major difference between the NFPA 101/5000 occupancy classifications and the IBC classifications is the ambulatory health care occupancy classification. (divided into subcategories H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4, and H-5) No equivalent occupancy classification (see paragraph below for additional information) (divided into subcategories R-1, R-2, R-3 and R-4) (divided into subcategories I-1, I-2, I-3, and I-4) (divided into subcategories A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5) One thing to note is that although some of the occupancies seem to correlate obviously, there may be differences between details within the definitions, such as minimum number of occupants, that could result in a different classification. Below is a table comparing the different occupancy classifications between the IBC and NFPA 101/5000. Perhaps one of the more common scenarios is when both the International Building Code (IBC) and the Life Safety Code apply. This can create challenges for the designer when multiple codes and standards are applicable and enforced in a jurisdiction. ![]() While the majority of the NFPA developed codes and standards use occupancy classifications consistent with the Life Safety Code, including NFPA 5000, Building Construction and Safety Code, other organizations’ codes and standards may differ. Improperly classifying a building or space risks over- or under-applying necessary code requirements, resulting in buildings lacking fire and life safety features, or containing additional fire and life safety features that are not required by the Code. These requirements reflect the unique and expected characteristics of the anticipated occupants of that space such as, capability of self-preservation, familiarity with the space, age, and alertness. The occupancy classification drives the requirements for many different fire and life safety features. One of the most critical steps in applying NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, and other building and fire codes to a space is identifying the correct occupancy classification.
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