Occupancy classifications inform every dimension and every discipline of the built environment. Classifications are grouped primarily based on their relative fire hazard and life safety properties such as how many people will be in the area, are there hazardous materials or manufacturing, and are people sleeping, cooking, living etc. Getting people and animals out of a built space with an unobstructed egress path to exit buildings, structures, and spaces inform occupancy classifications. A means of egress is comprised of exit access, exit, and exit discharge.
