Occupant Load Factor Calculation in Neighborhood Living Facilities while Performance-Based Design

Abstract

The criteria for calculating the occupant load factor are crucial for predicting the evacuation behavior of occupants during a fire, determining the size of the evacuation capacity, and significantly influencing the calculation of the Required Safe Egress Time (RSET) during fire safety assessments. There are currently 11 categories for classifying safe evacuation area installation targets for neighborhood living facilities; eight of these categories allow for various numerical values to be applied. However, applying numerical values from a conservative perspective results in excessive designs with larger occupant loads. Therefore, to address this issue, this study conducted a theoretical review of occupant loads and investigated and analyzed relevant domestic and international regulations. Subsequently, one of the buildings subject to a performance-based design in City 00 was selected, and occupancy criteria were applied based on the purpose of the space. A safety assessment of the evacuation was performed. The results show that, evacuation safety was not ensured at the two exits when the occupant load factor was below 4.6 m2/person. However, when the occupant load factor was greater than 9.3 m2/person, evacuation safety is guaranteed at all exits. Through this analysis, this study aims to raise awareness of issues related to the criteria for calculating the maximum occupancy in neighborhood living facilities and the need for revisions.