A classification defined as the use of all or a portion of a building is known as what?

• A. Occupancy
• B. Use
• C. Function
• D. Zoning

Answer: (A)

Occupancy is the classification used by fire and building codes to designate the purpose for which a building or part of it is used or intended to be used. This drives the life-safety requirements that apply, such as the number and size of exits, required fire-resistance ratings, detection and suppression features, and occupant load calculations. When only a portion of a building serves a different purpose, that portion may have its own occupancy classification and may need to be separated from other areas by fire barriers or additional protection. Zoning is about land use, function is too vague, and use isn’t the formal code term for classification; occupancy specifically describes how the space is used for code purposes.