 Reference to Occupant Load Factor Calculations:

The International Fire Code (IFC 2021), Table 1004.5 provides occupant load factors for different types of occupancies.

For assembly occupancy with tables and chairs, the occupant load factor is 15 square feet per person (net area).

 Calculation of Occupant Load:

Formula: Occupant Load=Net Square FootageOccupant Load Factor\text{Occupant Load} = \frac{\text{Net Square Footage}}{\text{Occupant Load Factor}}Occupant Load=Occupant Load FactorNet Square Footage​

Given: 2,500 net square feet, with a load factor of 15 sq. ft. per person: 250015=166.67≈167 occupants\frac{2500}{15} = 166.67 \approx 167 \text{ occupants}152500​=166.67≈167 occupants

 Clarification of Incorrect Answer Choices:

A. 167 → Correct

Matches the exact IFC Table 1004.5 calculation.

B. 227 → Incorrect

Would correspond to a lower load factor (about 11 sq. ft. per occupant), which is not the standard for tables and chairs.

C. 357 → Incorrect

Would correspond to a 7 sq. ft. per occupant factor, used for tighter seating arrangements (e.g., assembly without fixed seats).

D. 500 → Incorrect

Would correspond to a 5 sq. ft. per occupant factor, typically used for standing areas or dense seating arrangements.

 Conclusion:

The correct and verified answer is A (167 occupants) based on IFC Table 1004.5, using the standard occupant load factor for assembly occupancies with tables and chairs.