Massachusetts Unrestricted Construction Supervisor License Practice Test

What is the occupancy load of a diner that contains 20 booths with each booth containing 2 benches that measure 72 inches long?

1. 100

2. 120

3. 150

4. 80

The correct answer is: 120

To determine the occupancy load of the diner, you begin by calculating the total number of individuals that can be seated in the booths. Each booth consists of two benches, and the length of each bench is 72 inches. In terms of seating capacity based on the dimensions provided, each bench can accommodate approximately 3 adults comfortably. This is a common standard in the building codes which typically consider about 24 inches of bench space per person. Therefore, each booth, with its two benches, can comfortably seat around 6 people (3 people per bench x 2 benches). With 20 booths in the diner, the total seating capacity would be calculated as: 20 booths x 6 people per booth = 120 people. Thus, the occupancy load of the diner is correctly identified as 120. Knowing the rationale behind these calculations and how to apply standards for seating capacity is critical for managing safety and ensuring compliance with local building codes.