What is the maximum allowable area of a fire area containing Group A-3 occupancies without requiring an automatic sprinkler system?

The maximum allowable area of a fire area containing Group A-3 occupancies without requiring an automatic sprinkler system is indeed 12,000 square feet. Group A-3 occupancies cover spaces used for assembly purposes, such as theaters, auditoriums, and similar venues. The code provides specific thresholds for these occupancies based on life safety considerations and the potential hazards associated with large gatherings.

By establishing a threshold of 12,000 square feet, the code aims to balance safety concerns with practical building strategies. If the fire area exceeds this limit, an automatic sprinkler system becomes mandatory. This regulation is grounded in the understanding that larger spaces increase the risk of fire and complicate evacuation procedures.

In contrast, the other options fall outside of the acceptable maximums stipulated in the code. A fire area greater than those thresholds raises significant safety concerns, particularly regarding the potential for rapid fire spread and the management of an emergency response. Hence, maintaining a limit of 12,000 square feet is essential for ensuring occupant safety in these types of buildings.