Which method is used to classify pre-existing labs?

The classification of pre-existing labs primarily involves assessing their fire safety features, particularly the fire rating and the presence of a sprinkler system. This is crucial because fire ratings provide information about the lab's capacity to withstand fire and prevent its spread, while a sprinkler system significantly enhances fire protection by actively suppressing fires. Understanding these features is essential for ensuring safe operations in laboratories that handle flammable gases and other hazardous materials.

While other factors such as equipment type, employee numbers, and lab area size are relevant to lab management and safety protocols, they do not directly impact the classification in the context of fire safety regulations. The focus on fire ratings and sprinkler systems aligns with the need to prioritize fire prevention and safety in laboratory environments.