Construction Supervisor License Practice Exam

Automatic sprinkler systems are required throughout buildings whose area is greater than 5000 square feet and/or occupancy load is 50 or greater when which use group is located within any portion of a building?

1. A - 2 restaurant

2. A - 2 night club

3. S - 1 commercial bus storage

4. S - 2 commercial parking garages

The correct answer is: A - 2 night club

The requirement for automatic sprinkler systems is particularly stringent for certain use groups due to the nature of activities and the potential risks involved. In the context of the given question, use group B, specifically B - 2 night club, is associated with a high occupancy load and greater fire risks due to factors such as combustible materials, alcohol presence, and high-density gatherings of people. Night clubs often have more stringent safety measures enforced to protect patrons in the event of a fire. As night clubs typically cater to a significant number of people and involve activities that can generate substantial heat loads, such as lighting and equipment used for entertainment, they are classified as having a higher risk profile. Thus, the installation of automatic sprinkler systems is mandated to enhance fire safety and ensure that the building can effectively manage potential fire hazards. In contrast, other use groups like S - 1 (commercial bus storage) and S - 2 (commercial parking garages) are more related to storage and vehicle use rather than high occupancy loads of people. Although these facilities may have their own safety requirements, the fire risks and occupancy dynamics differ significantly from those found in a night club, which is why the criteria for sprinkler system requirements are less stringent for those groups.