What is the maximum occupant load for a conference room with a total area of 900 ft² (84 m²)?

The maximum occupant load is calculated by dividing the net floor area of a space by the occupant load factor designated for its specific use. According to NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, a conference room is classified as an Assembly Occupancy for "less concentrated use." The prescribed occupant load factor for this classification is 15 square feet per person. Therefore, for a 900 ft² room, the calculation is: 900 ft² ÷ 15 ft²/person = 60 people. This calculation determines the minimum number of occupants for which means of egress must be provided.

A. 30 people: This is incorrect. This result would come from using an occupant load factor of 30 ft²/person, which is associated with business or educational classroom use, not assembly.

C. 90 people: This is incorrect. This implies an occupant load factor of 10 ft²/person, which is not the standard factor for a less concentrated assembly use like a conference room.

D. 120 people: This is incorrect. This number approaches the calculation for "concentrated use" assembly (7 ft²/person), which applies to spaces like standing rooms or dance floors, not conference rooms.

1. NFPA 101®, Life Safety Code®, 2021 Edition.

Section 7.3.1.2: "The occupant load, in number of persons for any space, shall be determined by dividing the floor area assigned to that use by the occupant load factor for that use as specified in Table 7.3.1.2."

Table 7.3.1.2 Occupant Load Factor: Under "Assembly Use," the entry for "Less concentrated use (e.g., conference room, dining room, drinking establishment, exhibit hall, library, lounge)" specifies a factor of "15 net" square feet per person.