Which occupancy category indicates areas with minimal fire risk and up to 400 ft²?

Which occupancy category indicates areas with minimal fire risk and up to 400 ft²?

• A. Light hazard occupancy
• B. Ordinary hazard occupancy
• C. Frame arms
• D. NFPA 13

Answer: (A)

Light hazard occupancy describes areas with minimal fire risk and a low fuel load. In NFPA 13R/13 rules for residential occupancies, these spaces are typically allowed a larger area of coverage per sprinkler head—about 400 ft²—because the potential fire is small and the chance of rapid spread is lower. This makes light hazard the best match for “minimal fire risk and up to 400 ft².” Ordinary hazard occupancy implies more combustibles and a higher fire load, requiring smaller coverage areas per head to maintain control. Frame arms isn’t a recognized occupancy category, and NFPA 13 is the standard, not an occupancy category.

Light hazard occupancy describes areas with minimal fire risk and a low fuel load. In NFPA 13R/13 rules for residential occupancies, these spaces are typically allowed a larger area of coverage per sprinkler head—about 400 ft²—because the potential fire is small and the chance of rapid spread is lower. This makes light hazard the best match for “minimal fire risk and up to 400 ft².” Ordinary hazard occupancy implies more combustibles and a higher fire load, requiring smaller coverage areas per head to maintain control. Frame arms isn’t a recognized occupancy category, and NFPA 13 is the standard, not an occupancy category.