The method
Before using the result
- This is a local worksheet. Findings and supplied criteria remain the responsibility of the person recording them; the output is not a certificate or regulatory approval.
- No occupancy classification, net/gross area determination, minimum width, exit count or egress-distribution assessment. Factors must be supplied independently.
Worked examples
These original training examples illustrate the method for International Code Council Commercial Building Inspector Examination (ICC B2). Use the matching “Load example” button above to explore a variation; example values are not equipment settings or prescribed criteria.
1. Worked example
Apply supplied occupancy and width factors to an explicitly defined area. Record the criterion source instead of choosing an occupancy classification automatically.
- Applicable floor area
- 100 m²
- Supplied occupant-load factor (m²/person)
- 5
- Supplied width factor (m/person)
- 0.005
- Criterion source, occupancy and edition
- Training example only; replace with governing reference
- Occupant load = ceil(100 / 5) = 20.
- Width = 20 × 0.005 m.
- Arithmetic occupant load: 20 people
- Calculated aggregate width: 0.1 m
- Supplied factor source: Training example only; replace with governing reference
2. Comparison example
Compare a different supplied condition using the same method. For Inspector Exam, the important check is that the input meaning, units and method assumptions still match the problem.
- Applicable floor area
- 125 m²
- Supplied occupant-load factor (m²/person)
- 5
- Supplied width factor (m/person)
- 0.005
- Criterion source, occupancy and edition
- Training example only; replace with governing reference
- Occupant load = ceil(125 / 5) = 25.
- Width = 25 × 0.005 m.
- Arithmetic occupant load: 25 people
- Calculated aggregate width: 0.125 m
- Supplied factor source: Training example only; replace with governing reference
Check your understanding
1. Which relationship is used?
Arithmetic occupant load = ceil(area / supplied area-per-person factor); calculated width = occupant load × supplied width-per-person factor.
2. Which assumption should you check first?
This is a local worksheet. Findings and supplied criteria remain the responsibility of the person recording them; the output is not a certificate or regulatory approval.
3. How should you verify a different unit system?
Convert every input to the displayed calculation units first. Equivalent physical inputs must give equivalent results; a unit label alone does not convert a number.
Continue with the matching exam topic
This tool connects to International Code Council Commercial Building Inspector Examination (ICC B2) free practice. Work through a question independently, then use the calculation steps to identify where your method differs. The tool stays free whether or not you choose paid preparation.