Part of our warehouse project consists of a space (100m*100m*40m) using a ASRS (automated storage and retrieval system). It allows to store goods without people occupying the space.
I checked with the supplier of this system, and they indicate that it does not require any operator inside the space. Only maintenance, on a basis of once a month for a few hours in average, or if one of the system breaks down (maintenance only).
In the IEQ matrix, it is said that non-occupied spaces do not need to comply with the natural ventilation/mechanical ventilation requirements from ASHRAE 62.1. Indeed, the project got a waiver from local authorities stating it can be considered 'naturally ventilated'.
Can this space be considered as 'non-occupied' (even if maintenance occurs on a monthly basis)? Can it be exempted from this prerequisite (and IEQc2 if attempted)?
Thanks a lot.

Also, since ASRS allows to build less intermediate slabs compared to more traditional options, can we consider this item as an innovation in design? If the power requirement for this solution is less than a typical warehouse equipment load, can we consider those as savings in the energy modeling? Thanks.