What defines a mixed occupancy building?

A mixed occupancy building is defined as a structure that contains more than one type of occupancy, which can include residential, commercial, industrial, or other uses within the same premises. This distinction is crucial because each type of occupancy may have different safety codes and compliance requirements, particularly when it comes to emergency preparedness and response plans.

When dealing with a mixed occupancy structure, emergency preparedness plans must accommodate the various types of uses present in the building. This helps ensure that all occupants can be safely housed and managed during emergencies. For instance, the requirements for notifying individuals in a residential unit differ from those in a commercial area, necessitating a comprehensive approach to safety that addresses all occupants' needs.

The other choices do not align with the definition of mixed occupancy. A building with only one type of commercial activity does not exemplify mixed occupancy because it lacks diversity in uses. A facility solely for residential purposes is classified specifically as a residential occupancy, not mixed. Finally, a facility that operates during specific business hours does not inherently signify a mixed type of occupancy, as the classification is based on the presence of different occupancy types rather than their operational hours.