Appeal 32067

OSSC 1004.5

1004.5 Areas without fixed seating. The number of occupants shall be computed at the rate of one occupant per unit of area prescribed in Table 1004.5. For areas without fixed seating, the occupant load shall not be less than that number determined by dividing the floor area under consideration by the occupant load factor assigned to the function of the space as set forth in Table 1004.5. Where an intended function is not listed in Table 1004.5, the building official shall establish a function based on a listed function that most nearly resembles the intended function.

As allowed by 1004.5 Exception: Where approved by the building official, the actual number of occupants for whom each occupied space, floor or building is designed, although less than those determined by calculation, shall be permitted to be used in the determination of the design occupant load.

For Event Space #112 in the Library and Learning Center at the University of Oregon Portland Campus; Table 1004.5 prescribes the Occupant Load Factor of 15 for assembly tables and chairs which generates an occupant load of 245 for the Events Space. However, the University plans to seat 7 persons at 22 tables as shown on Sheet G101 which accommodates 154 occupants (7x22). Therefore, the University requests posting the maximum occupancy at 200 occupants which will still function for any use planned by the University and limit the overall building occupant load increase from the existing condition to less than 149 occupants.

The Event Space #112 is a newly renovated portion of the existing Library and Learning Center building at the University of Oregon Portland Campus at NE 27th Avenue. The posting of the occupant load capacity in this space will maintain the total building occupant load increase resulting from this space to less than 149 occupants compared to the existing condition. The building occupant load calculation is indicated on Sheet G011 from the areas shown on Sheets G021. The layout of Event Space #112 and the posted sign locations are shown on Sheet G101. As an institute of higher education, the University of Oregon is well able to schedule, supervise, and operate spaces within the intended function and occupant load because of their experience with the academic schedules of their buildings. The University agrees that the proposed 200 occupant capacity is in excess of their planned use of the space and consistent with the original space program publicly advertised in the Request For Proposals (RFP) for the project, and therefore not be difficult to maintain.