ICC Commercial Building Inspector Practice Test

In which occupancy is an approved automatic sprinkler system required?

1. Group B-2, Office Building

2. Group A-5, Assembly with limited occupancy

3. Group R-3, Residential

4. Group S-1, Storage warehouse

The correct answer is: Group A-5, Assembly with limited occupancy

An approved automatic sprinkler system is specifically required in Group A-5 occupancy, which pertains to assembly areas with limited occupancy, often used for outdoor activities and similar functions. The requirement stems from the potential fire hazards associated with large gatherings of people, particularly in venues that may have limited means of egress or could experience rapid fire spread due to the materials present. In Group A-5, the presence of an automatic sprinkler system can significantly enhance life safety by controlling or extinguishing a fire before it becomes uncontrollable, providing additional time for evacuation and reducing property damage. Other occupancy groups like B-2, R-3, and S-1 have their own specific occupancy needs and may not require a sprinkler system under certain conditions, such as when the building size, use, or the nature of the materials stored or activities conducted do not pose the same level of risk as found in assembly areas like Group A-5.