According to NFPA 10, what influences the maximum floor area protected by a fire extinguisher?

The maximum floor area that can be protected by a fire extinguisher is primarily influenced by the occupancy type. NFPA 10 provides guidelines that specify the requirements for portable fire extinguishers based on the nature of the occupancy, which determines the fire hazards present and the potential fire load in various environments. Different occupancies, such as assembly areas, factories, or office buildings, have distinct characteristics that influence the severity of fire risks and the effectiveness of extinguishing agents.

For instance, a high-occupancy area with a significant number of combustible materials would require a different approach in terms of the placement and number of extinguishers compared to a space with lower fire risks. The guidelines ensure that fire extinguishers are strategically located and sufficient to provide effective coverage within the environment's parameters, thereby enhancing safety and response capabilities in case of a fire emergency.

Other factors mentioned, like water supply, building age, and the owner's experience, do play roles in fire safety management, but when it comes specifically to the recommended coverage area for fire extinguishers, occupancy type is the deciding element as outlined in NFPA 10.