Hello everybody,

Scenario........first floor office space. Max occupancy (6.0m2 per person) calculation works out at 40 people, but calculating maximum number taking inot accoutn number of evacuation routes and width of escape routes, it works out at 115 people (using part B biulding regs document). We have carried out a fire drill and all can evacuate in under 2 mins 30 seconds. The guidance does say you should take the lesser of the two numbers as the maximum number of people. 

I've been asked can we go above 40 and put 50 in there (there is space for addtional desks).

Has anyone else come across this before and what have you done? All are trained, no mobility issues, can evacuate within resaonable time. An additoinal 10 heads would still be within evacuation route limit......but it would exceed floor space calculation.

your honest advice on this would be appreciated

Do your calculations also satisfy the Welfare Regs?

HSE FAQ's: The total volume of the room, when empty, divided by the number of people normally working in it should be at least 11 cubic metres. In making this calculation a room or part of a room which is more than 3.0m high should be counted as 3.0m high. The figure of 11 cubic metres per person is a minimum and may be insufficient if, for example, much of the room is taken up by furniture etc.

We are ok on the welfare regs. The stairways are protected and travel distance is ok due ot the number of exist available.

Thanks - this advice has been useful for me to take away and work on