In calculating occupant load, which element is subtracted from the gross factor to obtain the net factor?

In calculating occupant load, which element is subtracted from the gross factor to obtain the net factor?

• A. Tables, columns, or other unusable space
• B. Windows
• C. Ceiling height
• D. Number of exits

Answer: (A)

When calculating occupant load, you use the net floor area, which comes from subtracting unusable spaces from the gross floor area. Structural intrusions like columns, bulkheads, or other obstructions that occupants cannot use for seating or movement are removed from the gross area to form the net area. That net area is then used with the occupancy load factor to determine how many people the space can safely hold. Windows, ceiling height, and the number of exits don’t reduce the usable floor area for this calculation, which is why the subtractive element is described as unusable space such as columns and other obstructions.

When calculating occupant load, you use the net floor area, which comes from subtracting unusable spaces from the gross floor area. Structural intrusions like columns, bulkheads, or other obstructions that occupants cannot use for seating or movement are removed from the gross area to form the net area. That net area is then used with the occupancy load factor to determine how many people the space can safely hold. Windows, ceiling height, and the number of exits don’t reduce the usable floor area for this calculation, which is why the subtractive element is described as unusable space such as columns and other obstructions.