Proper Occupancy classification for Natural Gas Compressor Building

[retire09]

A plan is being proposed for a 7000sf building housing two large compressors used to inject compressed natural gas into a subsurface storage reservoir. The project is in an extremely cold climate otherwise the compressors would be outside and no building occupancy would be required. The compressors are fueled by natural gas. The designers are asking to consider an F-1 occupancy classification for the building in the hope that they can avoid the requirements associated with an H-2 occupancy.
Is this a reasonable Occupancy Classification for this type of facility?

 

[Ron]

First of all, this is an international forum, so please state your location and the building code under which these classifications are being made.

Assuming you are using the International Building Code, H-2 seems applicable although it would be reasonable to ask the local building official how it would be classified in the plan review stage...that way you'll have it according to local interpretation, which generally prevails.