How do you use 5occ/sqft in a night club? IBC 1004.5.1

[Brian 2]

When using the 5occ/sqft standing space occupant load for a night club, is it permissible to use that factor in the entire space? For example, there is just one large open room used entirely as a night club (yes there maybe a stage / bar too but for discussion only considering net floor area of the rest of the room). The confusion lies in 2018 IBC 1004.5.1 where it states the occupant load of a space should not exceed 7 occupants per sqft; the commentary goes further to say that the intent of the 5occ/sqft is only intended for a smaller gathering space in a larger room such as a bar where the rest of the room would be 15occ/sqft. So do you load a night club at 5 or 7 occupant / sqft? Does IBC 1004.5.1 intent to limit the max occupant load of any room to not more than 7 occ/sqft; even though it is titled “increased occupant load”?

 

[RLGA]

Section 1004.5.1 may be used when you increase the occupant load from a load factor provided in Table 1004.5. Thus a classroom's occupant load (20 sq. ft. per occupant) can be increased to a maximum of 7 sq. ft. per occupant.

Thus, the standing space and concentrated assembly occupant load factors (5 and 7 sq. ft. per occupant, respectively) cannot be increased.

I would apply the standing space occupant load factor to dance floor areas and areas where no tables and chairs are provided.