How many exits or exit access doorways are required for spaces with an occupant load of 501 to 1,000?

For spaces with an occupant load of 501 to 1,000, the requirement is to have a minimum of two exits or exit access doorways. This requirement is established in building and life safety codes to ensure safe evacuation in emergencies. The design of exit access allows for more than one route to a safe egress point, significantly reducing the risk of congestion and increasing the likelihood that all occupants can exit the building promptly and safely during an emergency.

In this range of occupant load, having only one exit would not adequately protect the occupants, considering factors such as potential obstacles, the speed of egress, and the need for multiple pathways. The regulation is critical for maintaining life safety, as larger gatherings of people require multiple avenues of escape to account for the chaos and disorder that can occur in stressful situations. Thus, the correct option reflects the necessary life safety principles tailored for spaces accommodating larger populations.