Live Load Reduction in Dining Area per ASCE 7 -05

[localaxis]

Is live load reduction allowed in a dining area per IBC 2006 and ASCE 7-05?
ASCE 7-05 section 4.8.2 Heavy Live Loads says "Live loads that exceed 100 psf shall not be reduced". The live load for dining areas is 100 psf. There is also ASCE 7-05 section 4.8.4 Special Occupancies which says "live loads of 100 psf or less shall not be reduced in public assembly occupancies". Is a dining area considered a "public assembly occupancy"? There is a separate "Occupancy of Use" called "Assembly areas and theaters".

To further confuse (or clarify) the topic, ASCE 7-10 has modified Table 4-1 to include a footnote on the "Dining rooms and Restaurant" occupancy which does not allow live load reduction.

Does anyone know the reason for this change? I did not see the change in any of the ASCE 7-05 errata but perhaps it was a clarification to prevent using live load reduction in dining areas. Thanks.

 

[frv]

I think you have answered your own question.

I would not reduce it. A dining room may very well get packed.

 

[localaxis]

Thanks, I think I can still reduce (0.8) for columns supporting 2+ floors so that will help.