When determining occupant load, what must an inspector do before evaluating life safety features?

Determining occupant load is fundamental as it establishes the maximum number of individuals that can safely occupy a building or space based on its configuration, occupancy type, and available egress. This initial step ensures that subsequent evaluations, such as assessing the adequacy of life safety features, are based on accurate and appropriate data.

By understanding the occupant load, the inspector can ascertain whether the building has sufficient exits, pathways, and safety measures in place to accommodate the number of occupants. If the occupant load is underestimated or overestimated, it could lead to unsafe conditions during emergencies, where inadequate egress paths could result in overcrowding and hinder evacuation efforts.

This foundational knowledge is vital for compliance with building codes and safety regulations, which often tie life safety features directly to the expected number of occupants. Each element of life safety, including alarms, sprinkler systems, and exit signage, needs to be aligned with the determined occupant load to ensure overall safety within the building.