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Occupant loads for salons and barber shops

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Occupant loads for salons and barber shops

Here are the common occupant load factors used for salons (hair, nails, etc.) from Table 1004.5 of the 2020 Minnesota State Fire Code (MSFC):

  • Salons (new – on or after March 31, 2020) – 150 sq. ft. per person.
  • Salons (existing – before March 31, 2020) – 100 sq. ft. per person.

Applying occupant load factors to buildings

To determine the occupant load of a space, divide the size of the entire space by the occupant load factor of Table 1004.5 (150 sq. ft. per person for new and 100 sq. ft. per person for existing). Suite-style or open floor plan salons are treated the same.  

Diagram of occupant load for salons and barber shops

Calculations

  • Salon (measure entire area used)
    • 60 ft. by 25 ft. = 1,500 sq. ft.
    • 1,500 sq. ft. divided by 100 sq. ft. per person (existing) = 15 persons.
    • 1,500 sq. ft. divided by 150 sq. ft. per person (new) = 10 persons.

Questions?

You can email us with your Minnesota State Fire Code questions. Code staff monitor this email address ​regularly and will respond to your question. During busier times, it may take up to a week before we are able to respond. If you don't hear back from us after one week, please let us know. Thanks for your patience.