How many drinking fountains are required when the occupancy load exceeds 15?

When determining the number of drinking fountains required based on occupancy load, relevant plumbing codes stipulate specific guidelines for public facilities to ensure adequate access to potable water. For an occupancy load exceeding 15, the requirement is to provide at least two drinking fountains. This provision ensures that there are sufficient sources of drinking water to meet the needs of the occupants, promoting health and hydration in public spaces.

The requirement for two drinking fountains accounts for factors such as peak usage times, the need for accessibility, and accommodating individuals with disabilities. It serves to minimize wait times and ensure that individuals have reasonable access to drinking water in environments where a larger number of people congregate.

In contrast, having only one fountain would likely be inadequate for larger crowds, while more than two may not be necessary until the occupancy load increases substantially, reflecting a balance between accessibility and resource allocation. Thus, two drinking fountains are mandated when the occupancy exceeds 15, making option two the correct choice.