In regard to safety, how are high-occupancy structures treated under commercial codes?

High-occupancy structures are considered to present greater risks due to the concentration of people within a defined space. Therefore, they must adhere to increased safety regulations under commercial codes.

These regulations are designed to address potential hazards related to life safety, fire prevention, egress, structural integrity, and accessibility. For example, codes may require additional fire exits, fire suppression systems, and stricter occupancy limits to ensure that in the event of an emergency, occupants can evacuate safely and efficiently.

By aligning with more stringent safety standards, these codes help mitigate risks associated with having a large number of occupants in a single building, ultimately prioritizing the health and safety of the public. This approach contrasts sharply with approaches taken for smaller or lower-occupancy buildings, where safety requirements are less demanding.