What is categorized as a risk category I building?

A risk category I building is typically considered to pose the least risk to human life and property in cases of emergencies, disasters, or structural failures. This category generally includes buildings that do not have a high occupancy load or a critical function in emergency situations.

A primary agricultural building is classified in this way because such buildings—including barns or storage facilities for agricultural products—are generally not occupied on a continuous basis and do not house large numbers of people. They primarily serve agricultural functions and therefore do not present the same level of risk as structures that accommodate large numbers of individuals or those that provide essential services.

In contrast, the other options presented fall into higher risk categories due to their functions and the potential consequences of structural failure. For example, hospitals with emergency services and highly populated commercial buildings must prioritize safety because of the significant number of occupants and the critical nature of their operations. High-rise office buildings also represent a higher risk due to their occupancy densities and complexities associated with evacuation in emergencies. Thus, these distinctions highlight why a primary agricultural building aligns with the criteria for risk category I.