Report of the Committee on Alternates

Flammable Liquids Fred B. Goodnight, Amerex Corp., AL

(Alt. to D. T. Grace)
Correlating Committee John R. McPherson, Exxon Company, USA, TX
(Alt. to D. R. Hitchock)
Robert L. Murray, Dover Corp., OPW Division, OH
Leon C. Schaller, Cha/mtan (Alt. to w.J. Brown)
E I duPont deNemours & Co., DE Thaddeus A. Nosal, American Insurance Services Group, NY
(AlL to W. L. Hartzell)
Robert P. Benedetti, Sectary Richard A. Powell, Autry Petroleum CO., GA
National Fire Protection Assn., MA (Alt. C. F. Houghton)
(Nonvoting)

G. E. Cain, G. E. Cain&Co.,DE Technical Committee on

Edward Hildebrandt, Village of Morton Grove, IL
Rep. Illinois Fire Inspectors Assn. Flammable and Combustible Liquids
C. L Kingsbaker, Atlanta, GA
Steven Landoa, Trophy C~ub Roanoke, TX Edward I-lildebrandt, Cha/rman
ce A. Rizzo, Lexicon Environmental Assoc., Inc., PA Village of Morton Grove, IL
ne S. Schmitt, Dept. of State Police, MI Rep. Illinois Fire Inspectors Assn.
Orville M. Slye, I~ss Control Assoc. Inc., PA
W'dliam J. Smith, Underwriters Laboratories In~, IL David L. Blomquish Chevron Corp., CA
Rep. American Petroleum Inst.
JonV. Brannan, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., IL
Nonvoting Weldon L Brundrett, M&M Protection Consultants, TX
Michael T. Castellano,Joseph E. Seagram & Sons Inc., NY
Paul C. Lamb, Englewood, NJ Rep. Distilled Spirits Council of US
Jack T. Cranefield, Factory Mutual Research Corp., MA
John A. Davenport, Industrial Risk Insurers, CT
Technical Committee on Wayne Geyer, Steel Tank Inst., IL
Donald L. Hierman, Rhone-Poulenc, Inc., NJ
Automotive and Marine Service Stations Rep. Chemical Manufacturers Assn.
Donald M. Johnson,San Bruno, CA
Eugene S. Schmitt, Cha/rman Rep. Western States Petroleum Assn.
Dept. of State Police, Fire Marshal Division, MI Joshy Paul Kallungal, Ontario FLre Marshals Office, Canada
Russell J. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corp., MI
Charles B. Barnett, ASCOA Fire Systems, OH Rep. NFPA Industrial Fire Protection Section
Thomas M. Bazzolo, GI" Dept. of Public Safety, Bureau of State Fire James D. Kleffer, Hiram Walker & Sons Ltd, Canada
Marshal, GT Richard S. Kraus, Mobile Oil Corp. - US, VA
g. Joseph Bocci, Dept. of the Interior, Nat'l Park Service, Nat'l ~ffa~_~aAmerican Petroleum Inst.
Capital Region, DC ce D. Malmstedt, American Ins. Services Group Inc., NY
WilfiamJ. Brown, Dover CO., OPW Fueling Components, OH Robert E. McClay, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, PA
Arthur C. Fink, Huskey Corp., MO Rep. American Sodety of Safety Engineers
Daniel T. Grace, Ansul Fire Protection, KY Navln D. Mehta, Defense Logistics Agency - IR, VA
FRreedP.Fire Equipment Manufacturers' Asm., Inc. Joseph IL Natah, Mobile Research & Development, NJ
Greil, City of New Carlisle, OH Rep. Nat'l Petroleum Refiners Assn.
Rep. NFPA Fire Service Section W'dliam E. Rehr, City of Wheaton, IL
John P. Hartmann, Hartmann Management Services Inc., IL Rep. Fire Marshals Assn. of North America
W'dllam L. Hartzell, Harleysville Mutual Insurance Co., PA Robert N. Renkes, Petroleum Equipment Inst., OK
Rep. American Insurance Services Group, Inc. Douglas A. Rivers, $M Co., MN
Donald Hausz, All Out Fire Equipment CO., Inc., NY GeraldJ. Rosicky, General Motors Corp., MI
Rep. Nat'i Assn. of Fire Equipment Distributors Inc. Rep. NFPA Industrial Fire Protection Section
John P. ~ Mutual Service Office, NJ Leon C. Schaller, E. I. duPont deNemours & Co., DE
Donald R. Hitchock, Texaco Refining and Marketing Inc., TX Rep. Nat'l Paint & Coatings Assn.
C ~ American Petroleum Inst. Eugene S. Schnfitt, Dept. of State Police, Fire Marshal Division, MI
F, Houghton, Mid-Missouri Oil CO., MO Rep. Fire Marshals Assn. of North America
Rep. Petroleum Marketers Assn. of America Bro6ke B. Smith, Aspen Engineering Inc., CO
Donald M.Johnson, San Bruno, CA Thomas g. Terrebonne, Kemper Group, HPR Dept., KS
Rep. Western States Petroleum Assn. Rep. The Alliance of American Insurers
Marshall A. Klein, Marshall A. Klein &Assoc. Inc., MD Harold S. Wass, IRM Insurance, NC
Rep. Valvoline Instant Oil Change, Inc. Jack Woycheese, Gage-Babcock & Assoc., Inc.
Martin E. Magera, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., IL
A. E. Mittermaler, Tokheim, Corp., IN
Rep. Gas Pump Manufacturers Assn. Alternates
Richard F. Murphy, Exxon Research & Engr Co., NJ "
Michael C. Perkins, SCV Corp., TX William $. Anderson, 3M Co., MN
W'dliam g. Rehr, City of Wheaton, IL (Alt. to D. A. Rivers)
Rep. Fir Marshals Assn. of North America Brian H. Bender, IGI Americas Inc., DE
Robert N. Renkess Petroleum Equipment Inst., OK (Alt. to G.J. Rosicky)
Howard Robbhas, Joor Manufacturing Inc., CA Robert H. Christopher, E. I. duPont deNemours, DE
John Smith Robison, AL State F'we Marshal's Office, AL (Alt. to L. C. Schaller)
W]mam M. Shaugimessy, Comm. of MA Dept. of Public Safety, J. W. Cragun, Phillips Petroleum Co., OK
Office of State Fire Marshal, MA (Alt. to D. Blomquist)
F. Michael Simone, CIGNA Loss control Services, PA Robert D. G r a m , Kemper Group, NY
Rep. T / C Marinas & Boatyards (Alt. to T. Terrebonne)
E. A~ Ta~both Salt River Project, AZ Lomer G. Johnson, Brown-Forman Corp., KY
(Alt. to M. T. Castellano)
David C. Kirby, Union Carbide Corp., WV The Report of the Correlating Committee on Flammable
(Alt. to D. L. Hierman) Liquids is presented for adoption in five parts.
Martin E. Magera, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., IL
(Alt. toJ. V. Brannan) Part I of this Report was prepared by the Technical Committee
David G. Mahoney, M&M Protection Consultants, IL on Automotive and Marine Service Statiom and proposes for
(Alt. to W. Brundrett) adoption amendments to NFPA 30A-1990, Automotive and
Lee Palge, IRM Insurance, NC Marine Service Station Code. NFPA 30A is published in Volume
(/kit. to H. Wass) 1 of the 1992 National Fire Codes and in separate pamphlet
William A. Thornberg, Industrial Risk Insurers, IL form.
(Alt. toJ. A. Davenport)
Part I of this Report has been submitted to letter ballot of the
Technical Committee on Automotive and Marine Service
Voting Alternate Stations which consists of 27 voting members; of whom 23 voted
affirmatively, 2 negatively (Messrs. Hartmann andJohnson), and
William 11. Heitzig, The Dow Chemical Co., MI 2 failed to return ballots (Messrs. Greil and Perkins).
(Alt. to Dow Rep.)
David L. Hodgden, Owens-Illinois Inc., OH Mr. Hartmarm voted negatively became of the Committee's
(Alt. to SPI Rep.) action on Proposals 30A-2, ~,0A-19, 30A-20, ~0A-21, and 30A-24,
stating that "Prnvisions for aboveground tanks are not ad-
equately covered in NFPA 513 (Standard for Motor Freight
Nonvoting Terminals). To do so is redundant. Changes decrease safety,
contrary to the intent of the Task Force (on Aboveground Fuel
Michael B. Moore, US Occupational Safety & Health Admin., DC Storage at Automotive Service Stations)."
Richard F. Murphy, Exxon Research & Engr Co., NJ
Orville M. SITe, Loss Control Assoc. Inc., PA Mr.Johnson voted negatively became "I cannot vote affirma-
Terence P. Smith, US Department of Labor, DC tively for this report that includes recent (since approving TIA
(/kit. to M. B. Moore) 90-1) changes that foster conditions that create severe risks to
the safety of the public, station operators, and station and
neighboring property, as well as unnecessary restrictions on
construction. See (the following) for specific items:
Technical Committee on
Proposal 30A-4, Section 1-2, definition of Aboveground Storage
Tank Leakage and Repair Safeguards Flammable Liquids Tank: The definition of an Aboveground Storage Tank has
reverted to only "listed tanks from "approved or listed" tanks
Joyce A. Rizzo, Chair,n a n (as) adopted in TIA 90-1, after extensive Committee consider-
Lexicon Environmental Assoc., Inc., PA ation (and) to be consistent with NFPA 30 (Flammable and
Combustible Liquids Code). The revised definition is overly
William C. Conklln, WCC Tank Technology, Inc., NY restrictive without any fire-safety benefit. The TIA definition
Donald W. Fie'rather, Veeder-Root Co., CT should be continued.
Wayne Geyer, Steel Tank Inst., IL
JohnJ. Hawley, Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., IL Proposal 30A-17, Subsection 2-4.2.2, Exceptions I & 2: These
Donald M. Johnson, San Bruno, CA two exceptions are potentiallyvery dangerous. The construction
Rep. Western States petroleum Assn. of vaults with such strong roofs should be prohibited, but at least
Kenneth D. Lattimer, Star Enterprise (Texaco), GA should not be given any type of credit. Ignition of vapor inside
Rep. NFPA Industrial Fire Protection Section such a strong vault would have the potential of blasting chunks
George S. Lomax, Health Consultants Inc., PA of concrete onto neighboring property and onto on-site
Rep. Int'l Assn. of Tank Testing Professionals facilities, as well as crushing and rupturing the tank inside the
Paul I. Mell, Bridgeport Chemical Corp., FL vault. This is a risk that is inconsistent with this Code's concern
Michael Nimocks, Ohio State Fire Marshal's Office, OH for the safety of people and property.
Rep. Leak Detection Technology Assn.
Henry L. Polid, Tanknology Corp. Int'l, FL Proposal 30A-17, subsection 2-4.3: This requirement for control
Re D. Leak Detection Technology Assn. of spillage is unnecessarily restrictive as it applies to all
W'tlllamJ. Purpora, Protanic Inc., WI aboveground piping. It is obscure whyit is needed or how it
Vernon Ray, Texas State Fire Marshal's Office, "IX could be complied with in a situation where, for example, a pipe
Frank P. Reisenauer, F. K. Fire Safety Consultants, WI comes out of or goes into the top of the tank in an aboveground
Robert N. Renkes, Petroleum Equipment Inst., OK vault and passes outside the vault to ground and then (runs)
James 11. Roeco, B. P. OilCompany, OH underground. There are required provisions to prevent gravity
Rep. American Petroleum Inst. flow of liquid through piping. Required diking outside the
Thomas Schruben, US EPA, Office of Underground Storage Tanks, vault, or tank impounding basin, equal to the capacity of the
DC largest tank (Which largest tank?), is normally not needed and
Todd G. Schwendeman, Groundwater Technology Inc., NY should not be required except under unusual, specified
Bruce IL Sharp, Armor Shield Inc., OH circumstances."
Robert P. Siegel, 3M Co., MN
Part I of this Report has also been submitted to letter ballot of
the Correlating Committee on Flammable Liquids which
Alternates consists of 9 voting members, all of whom voted affirmatively.
Tony Rieck, Armor Shield Inc., OH Mr. Schaller's affirmative ballot included the following
(Alt. to B. R. Sharp) statement: ~While I must vote affirmatively in accordance with
the rules applying to Correlating Committee members, I have
concerns regarding the direction in which the Committee is
Staff Liaison: Robert P. Benedetti heading. I believe the Committee should forcefully resist the
trend toward aboveground storage at service stations by
requiring features for aboveground facilities that will provide
This list represents the membership at the time the Committee protection to the public at least equivalent to that afforded by
was balloted on the text of this edition. Since that time changes underground storage. There should be no compromise. The
in the membership may have occurred. technical advice provided by experts in the NFPA code should
not be influenced by political expediency.
Regarding Proposal 30A-38, I find the reasoning unsound. revisions of this document will consider and reflect the
There is no specific requirement for ground conductivity, there limitations of the protection concepts contained in the Code. ~
is no prohibition on plastic containers in which the vapor space
wouidbe well-insulated from ground regardless where-the Mr. Krans' affirmative ballot included the following statement:
container was resting, and there has been no untoward ~(In Proposal 30-18,) subsection 4-4.2.6 calls for liquid-tight
experience in filling millions of vehicle tanks which are where walls join floors. Subsection 4-4.2.8 allows as a choice
themselves insulated from earth. If the proposal had merit, the ~wall scuppers". I do not see how a liquid storage area can have
12 gallon limit would noL" liquid-tight wall/floor joints and alsohave wall scuppers. ~
Part II of this Report was prepared by the Technical Committee Part II of this Report has also been submitted to letter ballot of
on Flammable and Combustible Liquids and proposes for the Correlating Committee on Flammable Liquids which
adoption amendments to NFPA 30-1990, Flammable and consists of 9 voting members, all of whom voted affirmatively.
Combustible Liquids Code. NFPA 30 is published in Volume 1
of the 1992 National Fire Codes and in separate pamphlet form. Part III of this Report was prepared by the Technical Committee
on Flammable and Combustible Liquids and proposes for
Part II of this Report has been submitted to letter ballot of the adoption a complete revision of NFPA 395-1988, Standard for
Technical Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids the Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids on Farms
which consists of 30 voting members; of whom 28 voted and Isolated Construction Projects, i n d u d i n g a change in title to
affirmatively and 2 failed to return ballots (Messrs. Geyer and "Standard for the Storage of Flammable and Combustible
Hodgden). Liquids at Farms and Isolated Sites". NFPA 395 is published in
Volume 7 of the 1992 National Fire Codes and in separate
Mr. Blomquist's alYarmative ballot included the following pamphlet form.
statement: "The Committee statement for (Proposal 30-71) Log
#88 should include the point made in our discussion about fire Part III of this Report has been submitted to letter ballot of the
record experience. See the attached (following) critical data in Technical Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
support o f the Committee's rejection: which, at the time of the letter ballot, consisted of 30 voting
members; of whom 29 voted affirmatively and 1 failed to return
The fire loss record in this type of retail store is excellent. The a ballot (Mr. Hodgden).
NFPA study on fire losses in shopping complexes, department
stores, and shopping centers was completed in August, 1990. Part III of this Report has also been submitted to letter ballot of
This was one of the most extensive studies of its klfid on these the Correlating Committee on Flammable Liquids which
types of occupancies. Not one mention of the flammable/ consists of 9 voting members, all of whom voted affirmatively.
combustible liquids display is mentioned in this report as a cause
or as a vehicle for the spread of fire in these occupancies. The Part IV of this Report was prepared by the Technical Committee
average annual fire loss in the United States from 1984-1988 in on Tank Leakage and Repair Safegymrds and proposes for
this type of occupancy was 287.6 million dollars. The average adoption amendments to NFPA 327-1987, Standard Procedures
annual fire loss for the same period in paint stores and for Cleaning or Safeguarding Small Tanks and Containers,
wallpaper stores was only 2.1 million dollars, which is an including a change in titie to "Standard Procedures for Gleaning
extremely low fire loss figure when examining the fire cause and Safeguarding Small Tanks and Containers Without Entry".
record in paint stores and wallpaper stores. There is no record NFPA 327 is published in Volume 6 of the 1992 National Fire
of fires starting with flammable/combustible liquids, even Codes and in separate pamphlet form.
though these occupancies are full of these materials.' (Reported
by Tomes, Van Rickley & Associates at Uniform fire Code session Part IV of this Report has been submitted to letter ballot of the
7/22/91 in Portland, OR.) Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair Safeguards
which consists of 20 voting members; of whom 17 voted
The record in liquid warehouses is similar. ~ affirmatively, 1 abstained(Mr. Fleischer) and 2 failed to return
ballots (Messrs~ Mell and Purpora).
Mr. Granefield's affirmative ballot included the following
statement: ~For the record, Factory Mutual Research Corpora- Part IV of this Report has also been submitted to letter ballot of
tion does not believe there is sufficient substantiation to justify the Correlating Committee on Flammable Liquids which, at the
accepting (Proposal ~ 8 7 ) Log #78, the proposal regarding time of the letter ballot, consisted of 8 voting members, all of
AFFFprotection for Glass IB, IG, and I! liquids in metal whom voted al~irmatively.
containers of 5 gallons or less capacity to a height of 11-12 ft. As
discussed in Committee, the tests conducted did not adequately Part V of this Report was prepared by the Technical Committee
investigate the effects of the ignition scenario. The 10 gallon on Tank Leakage and Repair Safeguards and proposes for
heptane pool fire ignition was sufficient to actuate the overhead adoption a new document, NFPA $27A, Standard Procedures for
sprinkler system without involvement of the test commodity. Safe Entry of Underground Storage Tanks.

We believe that a possibly more severe test would involve a less Part V of this Report has been submitted to letter ballot of the
intense ignition scenario that would allow involvement of the Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair Safeguards
test commodity before sprinkler actuation. This would which consists of 20 voting members; of whom 17voted
conclusively verify the protection system adequacy for a range of affirmatively, 1 abstained (Mr. Fleischer) and 2 failed to return
ignition scenarios. ballots (Messrs. Meli and Purpora).
I have voted "YES~ on the overall committee proposal because PartV of this Report has also been submitted to letter ballot of
the document represents a consensus agreement among the the Correlating Committee on Flammable Liquids which, at the
committee members and this issue, although important, is not time of the letter ballot, consisted of 8 voting members, all of
suRiciently vital to dispute the entire code. Hopefully, future whom voted aWarmatively.

3
 NFPA 30A -- A93 TCR

PART I resistive protection from exposure to a high intensity liquid pool

fire. (See 2-4.4)"
30A- 1 - (1-1.1, 6-1.1 and 9-3.3): Accept SU]gb-'TANTIATION: This definition is necessary for the proper
SUBMITTER: Committee on Automotive and Marine Service understanding and interpretation of proposed new Section 2-4,
Stations Aboveground Storage Tanks at Automotive Service Stations. See
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: Proposal ~0A-17.
1. Revise 1-1.1 to read: "This code shall apply..." COMMITrF_.E ACTION: Accept.
2. Revise 6-1.1 to read: "A service station shall be permitted..."
3. Revise 9-3.$ to read: "...with the approval of the authority having
jurisdiction..."
SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial improvement. 30A- 6 - (1-2): Accept
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. S U B ~ Committee on Automotive and Marine Service
Stations
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new definition of "Vault" to read as
30A- 2 - (1-1.5(New)): Accept follows:
SUBMITI'EPa J. David Wimnger, Yellow Freight System, Inc., (Log "Vault. An enclosure located either above or below grade that
# 15) contains an aboveground storage tank. (See 2-4.4) ~
Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Associations, Inc., (Log # 35) SUBSTANTIATION: This definition is necessary for the proper
Jerry C. Swart, Roadway Services, Inc., (Log # 46) understanding and interpretation of proposed new Section 2-4,
RECOMMENDATION: Add n e w ~ p ~ g r a ~ h 1-1.5 as follows: Aboveground Storage Tanks at Automotive Service Stations. See
"This code shall not apply to fueling facilities located at motor Proposal 30A-17.
freight terminals. For al/requirements relating to fueling fadlities COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.
located at motor freight terminals, reference shall be made to NFPA
513, Motor Freight Terminals."
SLrBSTANTIATION: NFPA513 was developed specifically for
motor freight terminals a n d should he used as intended, including (Log # M)
its fueling section. NFPA 30A is frequently misused by code officials 30A- 7 - (1-2): Reject
as applying to motor freight terminals. NFPA 30A cannot be all SLrBMITTER: Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Assodations,
things to all industries a n d does certainly n o t meet th~ needs of the Inc.
motor freight terminal industry. By referencing NFPA 513 in NFPA RECOMMENDATION: Add the following as a definition of private
30A, the NFPA 513 will be made a part of the widely adopted NFPA fueling fadlity under the definition of service station:
$0A and can be used as intended. "Private Fueling Facility. That portion of a property where liquids
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept, but add this new paragraph as a used as motor fuels are stored and dispensed from fLxed above-
new Section 1-1.4 and renumber existing 1-1.4 as 1-1.5. ground storage tanks into the fuel tanks of specifically authorized
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee agrees with this motor vehicles and where access by the public is restricted. Such
proposal, but feels that it should be located as indicated. facilities may be located on property where other related business
activities are conducted, including, but not limited to, the transship-
ment, storage and handling of freight and the servicing, mainte-
nance, repair and fueling of authorized vehicles."
30A-3- (1-2): Reject SUBSTANTIATION: This is a supplemental proposal to the one to
SUBMITTE~ J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc, (Log add Motor Freight Terminals and NFPA 513 to the NFPA 30A Code.
# 16) It would include motor freight terminals and other private fueling
Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Assodations, Inc., (Log # 36) fadlities.
rr~oC. Swart, Roadway Services, Inc., (Log # 47) "Rationale. Differentiation between retail and private fleet fueling
MMENDATION: Add definition as follows: facilities is needed. Differences in activities, access, safety consider-
"Motor Freight Terminal. A facility, including land & building(s), ations and property design and consu'uction warrant a separate
used by a motor freight carrier for the primary purpose of freight recognition from Service Station as described in NFPA 30A 1-2."
transfer, including areas where freight is received, sorted, heldfor COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
shipment, and loaded. Also included are andllary areas required for COMMrrFEE STATEMENT: This term is not used in NFPA 30A
mu.'on of the motor freight carrier's business, including and, therefore, does not need to be defined.
inistrative offices, employee support areas (restrooms, lockers,
etc.), vehicle fueling, repair, and service areas, aud vehicle parking
areas. ~
SUBSTANTIATION: The addition of this language supports (Log # 52)
another proposal submitted to reference NFPA 513 for fueling 30A-8- (1-2, Chapter 2, 9-3.5): Reject
activities related to motor freight terminals. SUBMITTER: Rick Thornberry, The Code Consortium, Inc./
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. ConVault
COMMITrEE STATEMENT: This term is not used in NFPA 30A RECOMMENDATION: Revise NFPA ~OA including T1A 90-1 as
and, therefore, need not be defined. follows:
NFPA 30A:
I. Section 1-2. Revise the definition of Aboveground Storage Tank
30A- 4 - (1-2): Accept as follows:
S U B M I T r E ~ Committee on Automotive and Marine Service Abovoground 8tin-age Tank. A horizontal or verucal tank d-mt~
Stations . . . . . . . ~s designed for aboveQ,rou~Id stor-0~e of
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new definition for Aboveground ~'intended for fixed installation withou(earthen cov~'r or
Storage Tank to read: backfill, ~ either above or below glade and-is
"Aboveground Storage Tank. A horizontal or vertical tank that is
listed and intended for fLxed installation, without backfill, above or
below grade, and is used within the scope of its approval or listing," 2-1.1 Types of Storage. Liquids shall ~ be stored irl containers
SUBSTANTIATION: This definition is necessary for the proper and tanks'in accordaffce with anv of the following:
understanding and interpretation of proposed new Section 2-4, (a) Approved dosed containers not exceedlng~60 gal capacity, or
Aboveground Storage Tanks at Automotive Service Stations. See (h) A I ~ tanks ~ in special enclosures in
Proposal 30A-17. " " inside buildings when annroved by the
COMMITIT.E ACTION: Accept. authority havin~ jurisdiction and as dtseribeet 6r-ovided for in
Section ~.~ -7,:t,~o~r
(c) Aboveground gt0g;lgfi tanks supplying marine service stations
as provided for in ~ ~c~ or
(d) ~ Approved ~ tani~ that is are part of a
~0A- 5 - (1-2): Accept fuel dispensing system as provided for in 9 - ~ 2-5. or
SUBMITTER: Committee on Automotive and Marine Service Le0. Aboveground storage tanks ---7 L~ L~.'J.Icd at automotive
Stations service statiora up~,a ~.c :-p/,;~.='- , , . " ~ the
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new definition of "Protected Tank ~ authority having jurisdiction and as provided for in 2-4, or
to read as follows: X¢~/L0- ~..L. l#~;.~d Underground storage tanks as nrovided for
"Protected TanL A tank assembly that consists of an approved or in Section 2-4 of NFPA 30, Flammable and ~3ombustible Liquids
listed aboveground tank and whose construction provides fire Code, or
 NFPA 30A -- A93 TCR

~ . Tanks or containers inside service station buildings as 10. Add a new Subparagraph (1) to Section 2-4.4.2 to read as
provided for in 2-$.3 and 2-3.4. follows:
3. Revise Section 2-1.3 by relocation the first sentence to a new (1) The vault shall be separated from any important building on
Section 4-1.3. the same property, the nearest side of any public way, and any
4. Section 2-1,5. Add an exception to read as follows: property line that is or can be built upon by not less than 25 feet.
"Exception: This section shall not apply to aboveground tanks Exception: When the vault is provided with an approved leak
which are automatically or visually monitored for leaks." detection system and isprotected with an automatic extinguishing
5. Renumber Section 2-1.6 as Section 2-2 and add a head to read: system, the separation distance may be reduced to 5 feet.
2-2 Marine Service Stations. 11. Add a new Subsection (m) to Section 2-4.4.2 to read as follows:
6. Renumber Section 2-1.7 as Section 2-1,6 and replace it in its (m) The tank within the vault shall have a clear accessible space of
entirety with Section 2-4.5.3 of the TIA. at least 3 feet between the tank and the vault walls to allow for
7. Renumber Section 2-2 Special Enclosures as Section 2-$ inspection and maintenance.
including its subsections. 12. Delete Section 2-4.5.3. NOTE: It has been relocated to replace
8. Renumber Section 2-3 Inside Buildings as Section 2-7 including existing Section 2-1.7 which has been renumbered as Section 2-L6.
its subsections. 13. Delete Section 2-4.5.4. NOTE: It is redundant. It is already
9. Revise Section 9-3.5 to read as follows and relocate to a new covered by Section 4-3.6.
Section 2-5: 14. Relocate Section 2-4.5.5 to a new Section 4-2.4 and renumber
9#3~ 2-5 Fuel Dispensing Tank Systems. T;,c v,~.:~i,.....Z 2-1.1 existing Section 4-2.4 and the remaining sections accordingly.
-l'.all ..v~ v.J.'bi~ tl.~ -::°v'-"-:..~ v." Class I and Class II liquids 15. Delete Section 2-4.7 in its entirety and substitute the following:
vv..~ ,~.
. . . . .~.~: d~.v....z.,.' ~ .].t,.,~ °,.t,t,:i..d b 7
- ~ . may be stored in 2-4.7 Earthen Cover and Backfill. Aboveground storage tanks shall
aDoveground stop__r_r_r_r_r_~
tanks in accordance with this section. Each not be in direct contact with the soil or other fill material which may
tank shall not t~ exceed 6000 gal (22 710 1). A maximum of ~ tanks cause corrosion of the tank to occur. Aboveground storage tanks
shall be permitted: one for a Class I liquid fuel and one for a Class II shall not be directly covered, either partially or completely, with
liquid fuel. Such tanks shall only be permitted to be located at earth or other fill material. Soil shall not be directly backfilled
commercial, indusffial, governmental, or manufacturing establish- a~aionStaboveground tanks.
ments -..d :,i~c,.dc.l' for fueling vehicles used in connection with TE: Corrosion of piping is already covered in Section 3-1.
th~P the establishment's business. Such .~,t,~,~,~g ,,,z,i s~ra~e 16. Relocate Section 2-4.8.1 to a new Section 9-10 and revise as
shall
shall be
be permitted
permitted provided:
provided: follows:
(a) An/nspecucAn
ins ction of the premises and otp e rations . . has
. been made 9-10 Tank F'dling. Delivery of fuel vv,~;,,d,,.:z to storage tanks shall
andappro ntedbytheauthori ha ngjuo c on comply with the applicable requirements of NFPA $85, Standard for
(b) ~ h ~ Each tank is safeguarded against collision, spillage, and Tank.Vehicles for Flan~mable and Combustible Liquids, ~ . d . : ~ , d,~
overfill to the satisfaction of the authority havingjurisdlction.
(c) ~ ' m Each tank system is listed or approved for such 17. Revise Section 2-4.8.2 by adding an exception to read as
aboveground use. follows:
(d) ~ Each tank complies with requirements for emergency Exception: This section shall not apply to aboveground storage
relief venting, the tank and dispensing system meet the electricai tanks installed in vaults that comply with 2-4.5.
classification requirements of the Code, and the tank complies with SUBSTANTIATION: The purpose of these revisions is to clarify and
the provisions of ~x-.-~ 2-1.6. reorganize the provision in NFPA $0A relating to the storage of
(e) :Fire ~Each tank .;.v...s~. ,I,~'.l . . . . ') ~ c o mlies with NFPA 30, motor fuels in aboveground storage tanks at automotive and marine
Flammable and Combustable Liquids ~ d e , Chapter 2. service stations. The revisions also incorporate additional protection
for otherwise unprotected aboveground storage tanks regulated by
TIA 90-1: Section 2-4 of the TIA. It is felt that additional automatic suppres-
1. Revise the heading of Section 2-4 as follows: sion systems are necessary for such tanks since separation distances
2-4 Aboveground Storage Tanks at Automotive Service Stations. alone are not adequate to provide a reasonable level of protection
2. Revise Section 2-4.1 as follows: especially considering these tanks have previously been prohibited
2-4.1 E ~ t , : ~ .... .l=:c$ L) d.~ p.Gv:;:. . . . . t ~.:a ,~cda.., When from being installed aboveground.
approved by the authority having ~urisdiction, aboveground storage These revisions also attempt to distinguish between tanks installed
tanks may be installed outside bu[ldin~ at automotive service in vaults and tanks installed in spedal enclosures as well as tank
stations when such tanks and their piping systems s h t ~ comply with systems regulated by Section 9-$.5.
this section and the applicable provisions of Chapter 2 and S o l Many of the changes are essentially editorial although there are
NFPA B0, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, except ~ some technical changes.
modified by the provisions of this section. COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
3. Revise Section 2-4.1.1 as follows: COMMITTEE STATEMENT: In April, 1991, NFPA adopted
2-4.1.1 Only listed or approved aboveground storage tanks shall be Tentative Interim Amendment 90-1 to NFPA 30A, Automotive and
used to store Class I andlIliquids. Tanks designed and built for Marine Service Station Code. ThisTentative interim Amendment
underground use shall not be installed for aboveground use. (TIA) established requirements for the use of aboveground tanks for
4. Revise Section 2-4.2.2 as follows: storage of motor fuels at service stations. Proposal $0A-17 of this
"Tanks not installed in vaults in accordance with 2-4.5 shall be Technical Committee Report proposes an amended version of the
located at least:" TIA for adoption and incorporation into the proposed 1993 edition
5. Subparagraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) shall remain as printed in of NTPA 30A. Proposal $0A-17 addresses many of the concerns
the TIA. Delete Exception No. 1 and Exception No. 2. raised by the submitter.
• 6. Add a new subparagraph (e) to read as follows: However, due to some significantly substantive changes contained
"(e) 25 f t f r o m adjacent tanks. in the submitter's proposal, which differ from the requirements
7. Revise Section 2-4.3 as follows: proposed in Proposal $0A-17, it was agreed that Task Group No. 1
2-4.3 Control of Spillage. Spill control shall be provided in on Aboveground Storage of Motor Fuel at Service Stations would
accordance with 2-3.3 of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible further study the submitter's proposals $0A-17 (Log #52) and $0A-9
Liquids Code. When diking is used~ each tank shall be provided (Log #55) with the intent of reporting additional changes back to
with its own dike and adjacent tanks may share a common dike wall the Committee via Technical Committee Documentation.
between them. The Task Group encourages all interested parties to submit
Exception: Tanks in vaults that comply with 2-4.5 need not meet comments as early as possible so that the Task Group can complete
this requirement. its work while addressing all concerns in time to prepare the
8. Add a new Section 2-4.4 to read as follows and renumber the Documentation for NFPA 30A in this revision cycle.
remaining sections accordingly.
2-4.4 Fire Protection. Each tank shall be protected with an
automatic deluge foam-water sprinkler system or foam-water spray
system designed in accordance with NFPA 16 or an automatic water (Log # 53)
spray fixed system designed in accordance with NFPA 15. 30A-9 - (1-2, Chapter 2, 9-3.5): Reject
Exception: Tanks in vaults that comply with 2-4.5 need not meet SUBMITrER: Rick Thornberry, The Code Consortium, Inc./
this requirement. ConVault
9. Renumber Section 2-4.4.1 as Section 2-4.5.1 and revise as RECOMMENDATION: Revise NFPA $0A including TIA 90-1 as
follows: follows:
2-4.5.1 D~.%,Ad.... Vaults. Vaults shall be constructed as an 1. Revise Section 1-2.
enclosure either above or below grade thttt designed to contains an a~ Revise the definition of Automotive Service Station as follows:
aboveground storage tank ~ in accordance with the Automotive Service Station. That portion of property where liquids
requirements of 2-4.4.5.2. used as motor fuels are stored and dispensed from fixed equipment
into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles or approved containers and

5
 NFPA 30A -- A93 TCR

which max ~ include any fadlities for the sale and service of tires, (b) Section 2-3.2 shall not apply provided each protected
batteries, and accessories. This occuv~;~ 1 .ic~;g....~..,~ definition aboveground storage tank a n d each special enclosure is separated
shall also apply to buildings, or portions of buildings, u~d---'~'~"-or from adjacent tanks and special enclosures by not less than 3 feet to
lubrication, inspection and minor automotive maintenance work, allow for maintenance and inspection.
such as tune-ups and break system repairs, but not for major (c) Section 2-3.3 shall not apply provided each tank is constructed
automotive repairs, painting, and body and fender work ttt~ with integral secondary containment. The space between the tank
and the secondary containment shall be vented and visually or
b. Add a new definition for Liquid as follows: automatically monitored.
Liquid• For the purpose of this code, any material that has a (d) Section 2-3.5.7(a) shall not be used to reduce the size of the
fluidity greater than that of 300 penetration asphalt when tested in emergency vent.
accordance with ASTM D 5, Test for Penetration for Bituminous 9-5.3 Each tank shall be listed as a protected aboveground storage
Materials. When not otherwise identified, the term liquid shall tank in accordance with nationally recognized standards.
mean both flammable or combustible liquids or any combination Exception: Listed aboveground tanks may be used when installed
thereof. in special enclosures constructed in accordance with 2-2.
c, Add a new definition for Protected Aboveground Storage Tank 2-5.4 Guard posts or other approved means shall be provided to
as follows: protect tanks, and any connected piping, subject to motor vehicle
Protected Aboveground Storage Tank. A construction assembly impact.
consistingof an aboveground storage tank with protective construc- Exception: Motor vehicle impact protection shall not be required
tion which provides the tank with secondary containment, protec- for tanks installed in special enclosures constructed in accordance
tion from physical damage, and fire resistive protection from a high with Section 2-2, or protected aboveground storage tanks, provided
intensity flammable liquid pool fire exposure. they do not have piping connected to remote dispensers.
2. Revise Section 2-1.1 as follows: 2-5.5 Each protected aboveground storage tank shall have a clear
2-1.1 Liquids shall only be stored in containers and, tanks in accessible space of at least 3 feet between the tank and its protective
accordance with any of the following: construction or between the tank and the walls of the special
(a) Approved closed containers not exceeding 60 gal capacity, or enclosure in which it is installed to allow for maintenance and
(b) Aboveground storage tanks installed in special enclosures inspection.
inside buildings as ~ provided for in S e t ~ r r 2-2, or Exception: When the tank is manufactured as an integral part of a
(c) Aboveground s~ra~e tanks supplying marine service stations protected aboveground storage tank or special enclosure, the 3 foot
as provided for in 2-1.fi, or clear space between the tank and the enclosure is not required when
(d) Aboveground storage tanks .... 7 . . . . . . , at automotive an al~roved means to monitor leakage from the primary tank is
service stations upon the approval-~ when approved by the authority prowded.
having jurisdiction and as provided for in 2-4, or 2-5.6 Warning signs and identification signs shall be installed to
(e) t~'..z l..~..i" Underground storage tanks as provided for in clearly identify hazards in accordance with 9-9• Conspicuous signs
Section 2-4 of NFPA 30, Flammable and Gombustible Liquids Code, prohibiting simultaneous tank filling and fuel dispensing shall be
or posted.
(f) Tanks or containers inside service station buildings as provided 2-5.7 Tanks containing motor fuels shall not exceed a 6,000-gxllon
for in 2-3.3 and 2-3.4, or individual, or 18,00)0-~1.lion aggregate capacity. . Installations having
(g) Protected aboveground storage tanks as provided for in 2-5. the maximum allowable aggregate capac,ty shall be separated from
3. Section 2-1.5 Add an exception to read as follows: other such installations by not less than 100 feet.
~Exception: this section shall not apply to aboveground storage 2-5.8 An overfill prevention system shall beprovided for each tank.
tanks which are automatically or visually monitored for leaks." The system shall be operational during the filling of the tank and
4. Revise Section 2-4.2.2 as follows: shall comply with the following:
"When aboveground storage tanks are not installed in vaults in a. The system shall activate an audible or visual alarm signal when
accordance with 9-4.4 t they shall be located at least:" the quantity of liquid in the tank reaches 85 percent of tank capacity
5. Subparagraphs (a), (b), (c), and (d) shall remain as printed in or the tank shallbe provided with a tank level gage marked at 85
the TIA. Delete Exception No. 1 and Exception No. 2. rcent of tank capacity.
ft. Add a new subparagraph (e) to read as follows: • The system shall automatically shut-off the flow of fuel or
"(e) 25 ft from adjacent tanks." restrict the flow of fuel to a maximum rate of 2.5 gpm when the
7. Add a new Section 2-4.2.3 to read as follows: quantity of liquid in the tank reaches 90 percent of tank capacity.
2-4.2.3 Each tank shall be provided with its own dike. Adjacent For tanks which are filled by other than preconnected fuel delivery
tanks may share a common dike wall between them. hose and nozzle systems, a means shall be provided to empty the
8. A d d a new Section 2-4.2.4 to read as follows: delivery hose into the tank after the automatic shut-off or flow
2-4.2.4 Each tank shall be protected with an automatic deluge restriction device has activated.
foam-water sprinkler system or foam-water spray system designed in 2-5.9 The flU pipe for the tank shall be provided with a means for
accordance with NFPA lfi or an automatic water spray f'Lxed system making a direct connection to the tank vehicle s fuel delivery hose so
designed in accordance with NFPA 15. that the delivery of fuel is not exposed to the open air during the
9. Add a new Subparagraph (1) to Section 2-4.4.2 to read as filling operation. When anyportion of the external fill pipe extends
follows: below the level of the top 0 f t h e tank, a check valve shallbe installed
(1) The vault shall be separated from any important building on in the fill pipe not more than 12 inches from the fill hose connec-
the same property, the nearest side of any public way, a n d any tion and an approved anti-siphon device shall be installed in the
property line that is or can be built upon by not less than 25 feet. pipe.
Exception: When the vault is provided with an approved automatic 2-5.10 A spill container shall be provided for each fill opening. For
leak detection system and is protected with an approved automatic tanks with a remote fill connection, aportable spill container shall
fire extinguishing system, the required separatio-fi distance may be be provided. For tanks filled directly from the top, spill containers
reduced to 5 feet. shall be noncombustible and shall be mounted in or on the tank and
10. Add a new Subsection (m) to Section 2-4.4.2 to read as follows: equipped with a drain valve which drains into the primary tank. All
(m) The tank within the vault shall have a clear accessible space of spill containers shall have a capacity of not less than five gallons.
at least 3 feet between the tank and the vault walls to allow for 2-5.11 Tank vehicles shall not be parked within 25 feet of a special
inspection and maintenance. enclosure or a protected aboveground storage tank.
1L Revise 2-4.8.2 by adding an exception to read as follows: Exception: When the tank is being filled from the tank vehicle.
Exception: This section shall not apply to aboveground tanks 9-5.12 Tan.k openings shall be through the top only.
installed in vaults. 2-5.13 Dispensing devices may be installed on top of special
12. Add a new Section 2-5 Protected Aboveground Storage Tanks. enclosures and protected aboveground storage tan-ks. -
2-5 Protected Aboveground Storage Tanks. 2-5.14 Approved anti-siphon devices shall be installed in each
2-5.1 Unless approved by the authority having jurisdiction, external pipe connected to the tank when such pipe extends below
aboveground storage tank installations in accordance with this the level o f the top of the tank.
section shall not be accessible to the general public. 2-5.15 Tanks, protected aboveground storage tanks, special
2-5.2 Tanks shall be installed in accordance with C~apter 2 of enclosures, and dis~.cnsing systems shall be maintained in a proper
NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Cxxte, for safe operating condition. T a n k s and components of dispensing
aboveground tanks with the following exceptions: " systems shall b e maintained in accordance with their listings.
(a) Section 2-3.1 shall not apply providedthat a separation Damage to protected aboveground storage tanks and special
distance of not less than 5 feet is maintained between each tank and enclosures shall be repaired using materials having equal or greater
any adjacent buildable property lines, important buildings, or public strength and fire resistance.
ways. 13. Delete Section 9-3.5 in its entirety.
 NFPA 30A -- A93 TCR

SUBSTANTIATION: The purpose of these proposed revisions is to 30A- 12 - (2-1.1(g) (New)): Accept
include provisions within NFPA 30A that recognize the relatively new SuBMrITER: Committee on Automotive and Marine Service
technology that has evolved in the protection of aboveground Stations
storage tanks generally having a capacity of less than 6,000 gallons. RECOMMENDATION: Add a new subparagraph (g) to 2-1.1 to
At present NFPA $0A including TIA 90-1 does not contain specific read:
provisions that adequately address what we have defined as "Tanks located aboveground at automotive service stations with the
protected aboveground storage tanks. Such tanks are integrally approval of the authority having jurisdiction and as provided for in
protected tanks that can withstand exposure to a 2-hour flammable 2-4."
liquid pool fire and can also withstandbullet penetration and impact SUBSTANTIATION: This provides the appropriate link between
from motor vehicles. Such tanks are also generally provided with the general section on allowable methods of storage and the specific
integral secondary containment designed to contain at least 100 requirements for this one storage method. See Proposal BOA-]7.
P~Srcent of the contents of the primary tank. COMM1TIW~ ACTION: Accept.
ection 9-$.5 has been deleted since the provisions therein are
covered by the new provisions proposed in Section 2-5 for protected
aboveground sto.r.a~e tanks. At this time to our knowledge there are (Log # 18)
no tank systems which have been listed for use in accordance with BOA- 13 - (2-1.3): Reject
Section 9-5.5. However, we know of several aboveground tank SuBMrrTER: J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc.
manufacturers who are in the process of investigating a n d / o r RECOMMENDATION: Revise the last sentence to read as follows:
obtaining a listing with a nationally recognized testing laboratory as "Above-ground tanks containing Class I liquids located at a bulk
a protected aboveground storage tank. Therefore, it is important to plant shall not be connected by piping to a service station."
provide standardized requirements for such installations which will Add sentence as follows:
permit the use of aboveground tanks at automotive service stations. "This paragraph is not meant to reslrict the dispensing or storage
Additionally, the proviso is included that such installations are not of Class II and Class Ill liquids."
allowed at facilities accessible to the general public unless specifically SUBSTANTIATION: Existing language is felt to be unclear. The
approved by the authority havingjurisdictlon. proposed revision is intended to remove any ambiguity in 2-I.3.
It should be noted that these provisions very closely parallel those COMMrlTEEACTION: Reject. Also, delete the second sentence
contained in Appendix II-F of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code. Similar of 2-1.5 and add a new 2-1.4 to read: "Aboveground tanks located at
provisions were also recendy adopted as part of the 1990 BOCA a bulk plant shall not be connected by piping to service station
National Fire Prevention Code as published in their 1992 Accumula- tanks."
tive Supplement. Again, similar changes will also be proposed in the Renumber existing 2-1.4 through 2-1.7 accordingly.
near future to the Standard Fire Prevention Code for consideration. COMMITI~E STATEMENT: Subsection 2-1.3 is addressing the
These proposed revisions also clarify other requirements in the potential hazard of overfilling of the tanks. This hazard exists with
code related to tanks installed in vaults and aboveground tanks any liquid. However, in order to eliminate any ambiguity, the
which are not protected. It is believed that aboveground storage Committee is proposing appropriate changes to the text.
tanks at automotive service stations, as a minimum, require not only
adequate separation distances but also active fire protection systems
unless they are installed in vaults, special enclosures, or are listed as
protected aboveground storage tanks. Bringing tanks out of the (Log # 19)
ground at service stations should not be taken lightly. Therefore, it 30A- 14 - (2-1.7): Reject
is incumbent upon the NFPA 30A Committee to incorporate SUBMITTER: J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc.
standards that provide a reasonable level of fire and life safety RECOMMENDATION: Revise text to read as follows:
comparable to that which has been achieved with underground "Where tanks are at an elevation where a gravity head may be
storage tanks at automotive service stations. imposed on a dispensing device, the system shall be designed to
COMMrITEE ACTION: Reject. prohibit liquid flow by gravity from the tank in case of piping failure
COMMIT'FEE STATEMENT: See Committee Statement to Proposal or hose failure when the dispenser is not in use."
30A-8 (Log #52). SUBSTANTIATION: The wording specified is too restrictive to
al~ly to all cases. A solenoid is not feasible in some designs, e.g.
ruth large piping and flows. In some cases, piping from the top of
(LOg # 1) the tank with a vacuum breaker may be appropriate and just as safe.
$0A- 10 - (2-1.1 (d), 2-1.2, 9-$.3, 9-$.4, 9-$.5): Reject This proposal will allow good design to prevail
SUB~: J o h n M. Watts, Fire Safety Institute COMMrITEE Ac'rION: Reject.
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: COMMHTEE STATEMENT: The Committee feels that this safety
1. Renumber 9-5.5 as 2-1.1.1, renumber 9-$.4 as 2-1.1.2, renumber feature is necessary for the reasons stated. Solenoid valves are only
9-$.5 as 2-1.1.3 and relocate accordingly. mentioned as an example of one means of complying with 2-1.7.
2. Change 2-1.1 (d) to read "...as provided for in 2-1.1 .B, or". Other means, such as vacuum breakers or motor-operated valves can
5. Delete parenthetical sentence at the e n d of 2-1.2. be used as long as the performance requirements are met.
SUBSTANTIATION: These paragraphs do not relate to section 9-5
"Attendance or Supervision of Dispensing'. They each refer to
paragraph 2-1.1 and therefore should belocated in proximity to this (Log # 3)
g~agraph. 30A- 15 - (2-3.4): Accept in Principle
MMITTEE ACTION: Reject. SUBMrrrER: Leslie L. Wedge, Redford Township Fire Department
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee's intent in citing RECOMMENDATION: Section 2-3.4 Tanks storing Class IIIB
~eCific sections of Chapter 2 is for purposes of cross-reference to aid liquids inside buildings shall be permitted to be stored in and
user. Therefore, the Committee feels that the language cited by dispensed from tanks and containers meeting the requirements of
the submitter is in its proper location. Sections 2-1 and 4-2 of NFPA 30, as applicable inside service
buildings. Unless otherwise proven by test, tanks and containers that
contain only crankcase drainings shall be considered to be contain-
ing Class IIIB liquids.
I suggest 2-3.4be amended as follows:
30A- 11 - (2-1.1(g) (New)): Reject "Crankcase dralnings which have been tested in accordance with
SUBMrrl'ER: J. David Wlninger, Yellow Freight System, In~, (Log testing methods approved by the authority having jurisdiction, at the
# 17) expense of the owner, operator, person or firm in control of
Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Associations, Inc., (Log # 37) premises, shall be considered as Class IIIB liquids when the required
RECOMMENDATION: Add new paragraph 2-1.1 (g) as follows: results confirm their classification has not been altered by contami-
2-1.1 (g) Above-ground storage tanks that are part of a fuel nants. The testing of individual crankcase drainings is required
dispensing system as provided for in 9-$.5. prior to dispensing into tanks or storage containers to prevent
SUBSTANTIATION: The intent of this addition is to clearly contamination of stored crankcase dralnings. Tanks storing Class
indicate that above-ground fueling is permitted for fleet refueling of IIIB liquids inside buildings shall be equipped with a device or other
vehicles used in connection with an owner's business a s p e r 9-5.5. means shall be provided, subject to the authority having jurisdiction,
TIA 90-1 required that this wording be put back in NFPA 30A. to prevent overflow into the building."
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. SUBSTANTIATION: Comment: This section allows for crankcase
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: This proposal is rejected because the drainings to be c o n s i d ~ B liquids, unless a test proves
Committee proposes to delete 9-3.5 entirely. See Proposal BOA-41. otherwise. It does not require the test to be an approved test, or
suggest what type of test is required to prove that the stored product
is Class IIIB.
 N F P A 3 0 A - - A93 T C R

The frequency of t e s _ ~ is not addressed. Product in stored tanks 2-4.2 Tank Location and Capacity.
is removed frequently, and the contents in the tank may not be the 2-4.2.1 Tanks storing Class I and Class II liquids at an individual
same when each crankcase draining is dispensed into the tanL site shall be limited to a maximum individual capacity of 12,000
At what point is the test required? After each crankcase draining is gallons (45,600 L) and an aggregate capacity of 40,000 gallons
not unreasonable, since the integrity of the stored product may be (152,000 L).
violated by a single crankcase draining. 2-4.2.2 Tanks shall be located at least:
When approved testing is provided, who is responsible for the (a) 50 feet (15 m) from the nearest important building on the
testing expenses? The burden of p r o o ~ u ' s t re-st with the persons same property;
storing the product. (b) 50 feet (15 m) from any fuel dispenser;
COMMrlTEEACTION: Accept in Principle. (c) 50 feet (15 m) from the nearest side of a public way;
Delete the words 'qJnless otherwise proven by test" from Subsection (d) 100 feet (30 m) from any property line that is or may be built
2-3.4. upon, including the opposite side of a public way.
COMMITYEE STATEMENT: While the submitter establishes the Exception No. 1: No minimum distances shall be required for a
point that frequency of testing, etc. are issues not addressed in 2-3.4, tank that is installed in a vault having a top that is both constlucted
the Committee must recognize that Federal, State, and local of reinforced concrete not less than 6 in. (15 can) thick and is at or
regulations on testing of hazardous wastes prior to disposal make any below grade.
further requirements in NFPA 30A redundant. Also to require Exception No. 2: For a tank that is installed in a va~alt that is at or
testing of tank contents after each crankcase is drained would be an below grade and has a top constructed of reinforced concrete less
extreme hardship, both cost-wise and time-wise, for the operator. In than 6 in. (15 cm) thick, all minimum distances can be reduced by
effect, the submitter's proposal would require an individual flash 50 percent.
point determination for the crankcase oil drained from each vehicle. Exception No. 3: For a tank in an above grade vault or for a
protected tank, the distances specified by (a), (c), and (d) can be
reduced by 50 percent. In addition, no minimum distance shall be
(Log # 4) required by (b).
30A- 16 - (2-3.4.1): Reject 2-4.3 Control of Spillage. Aboveground tanks and aboveground
SUBM1TI'ER: Leslie L. Wedge, Redford Township Fire Department piping shall be providedwith an approved means to contain the
RECOMMENDATION: Section 2-3.4.1 Tanks storing Class IIIB accidental release of liquid equal to the total volume of the largest
liquids inside service station buildings shall be permitted to be tank.
located at, below, or above grade provided that adequate drainage 2-4.4 Vaults. Vaults may be either above or below grade and shall
or containment is provided. comply with the following:
Ipropose Section 2-3.4.1 read as follows: (a) The vault shall completely enclose each tank. There shall be
"Storage tanks inside of buildings storing Class IIIB liquids shall be no openings in the vault enclosure except those necessary for access
permitted only in areas at or above grade, have adequate drainage to, inspection of, and filling, emptying, and venting of the tank. The
and are separated from other parts of the building by construction walls and floor of the vault shall be constructed of reinforced
having a fire resistance rating of at least two hours. Openings to concrete at least 6 in. (15 cm) thick. The top shall be constructed of
other rooms shall be provided with non-combustible liquid-tight noncombustible material. The top, floor, and tank foundation shall
raised sills or ramps at least four inches (10 cm.) in height, or the be designed to withstand the anticipated loading. The walls a n d
floor i n the sto rage area shal I be at least four in ches ( 10 cm. ) below floor of any vault installed below grade shall be designed to
the surrounding floor. As a minimum, each opening shall be withstand anticipated soil and hydros~fic loading. The vault shall
provided with a listed self-closing 1 1/2-hr (B) fire door installed in be substantially liquid tight and there shall be no backfill around the
accordance with NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Windows, or tanL There shall b e suflident space between the tank and the vault
a listed fire damper installed where required by NFPA 90A, Standard to allow for inspection of the tank and its appurtenances.
for the Installation of Air Conditioners and Ventilation Systems, or (b) Each vault and its tank shall be suitably anchored to withstand
NFPA91, Standard for Installation of Blower and Exhaust Systems uplifting by ground water or flooding, including when the tank is
for Dust, Stock and Vapor Removal or Conveying. The room shall empty.
be liquid-tight where the walls join the floor. (c) A vault shall be designed to be wind and earthquake resistant,
SUBSTANTIATION: Comme_nt: This section allows for storage of in accordance with good engineering practice. The vault shall be
tanks inside service stations in a manner which is inconsistent with resistant to damage from the impact of a motor vehicle or suitable
storage requirements of combustible liquids found in NFPA 30, collision barriers shall be provided.
Section 2-4. Subsection 2-4.1 requires tanks be installed outside. (d) Each tank shall be in its own vault. Adjacent vaults may share
In Redford Township, tanks are required to be installed under- a common wall.
ground. Redford Township does not consider the requirement of (e) Connections shall be provided to permit ventilation of each
underground storage tanks to be "not practical" because of vault to dilute, disperse, and remove vapors prior to entry.
governmental regulations, temperature considerations or produc- (f) Each vault shall be equipped with a detection system capable
tion considerations. of detecting liquids, including water, and will activate an alarm.
The proposed change also is inconsistent with Section 2-4.1.1 (g) Means shall be provided to recover liquid from the vault. Ifa
where "storage tanks inside of buildings shall be permitted only in pump is used to meet this requirement, the pump shall not be
areas at or above grade and are s e o ~ t e d from other parts of the permanently installed in the vault. Portable pumps shall be suitable
building by construction having a fire resisting rating of at least two for use in Class I, Division 1 locations, as defined in NFPA 70,
hours..." National Electrical Code.
The intent of section 2-4.1.1 is to "separate the storage area and the (h) Vent pipes that are provided for normal tank venting shall
process area so that neither presents a fire exposure to the other, terminate at least 12 ft (3.6 m) above ground level.
and to prevent a spill from flowing into the protected area." Your (i) Emergency vents shall be vapor tight and shall be permitted to
proposed TIA 30A 5-2-~.4.1 addresses the spill containment discharge inside the vault.
requirements but does not address separation requirements. (j) Each vault shall be provided with a means for personnel entry.
COMMrlTEE ACTION: Reject. At each entry point, sa warning
i . gn indicatinng the need for proce-
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The lan~ruageproposed by the dures for safe entry into confined spaces shall be posted. Each entry
submitter is not consistent with subsection 9-5.4.4 of NFPA 30, which point shall be secured against unauthorized entry and vandalism.
has jurisdiction here. Also, the Committee is not aware of any (k) Each vault shall be provided with a suitable means to admit a
noticeable risk of overfills leading to fires. fire suppression agent.
(1) The interior of any vault containing a tank that stores a Class I
liquid shall be designated a Class I, Division1 location, as defined in
30A- 17 - (24): Accept NFPA 70, National Electrical Code.
SUBMITrER: Committee on Automotive and Marine Service 2-4.5 Protected Tanks.
Stations 2-4.5.1 Protected tanks shall comply with the foUowin~
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new Section 2-4, Aboveground (a) The construction that provides the required fire resistive
Storage Tanks at Automotive Service Stations, to read as follows: protection shall prevent release of liquid, failure of the primary tank,
2-4 Aboveground Storage Tanks at Automotive Service Stations. failure of the supporting structure, and impairment of venting for a
2-4.1 Except as modified by the provisions of this Section, period of not less than 2 h o u r s when testedusing the fire exposure
aboveground storage tanks shall comply with the applicable environment described in UL 1709 or equivalent test procedure.
provisl'ons in Chapters 2 and 3 of NFPA 30, Flammable and (b) There shall be no openings except those necessary for access
Combustible Liquids Code. to, inspection of, filling, emptying, and venting of the tank.
2-4.1.1 Only aboveground storage tanks shall be used. Tanks (c) Each protected tank shall be suitably anchored to withstand
designed and built for underground use shall not be installed for uplifting by groundwater or flooding, including when the tank is
aboveground use. empty.

8
 N F P A 30A m A 9 3 T C R

(d) Each protected tank shall be resistant to damage from impact It is the Committee's opinion that aboveground storage of motor
of a motor vehicle or shall be protected by suitable collision barriers. fuels will continue to be an option for service stations. Therefore,
(e) Vent pipes that are provided for normal tank venting shall adoption of this proposal to make the TIA a permanent part of
terminate at least 12 ft (3.6 m) above ground level. NFPA 30A is essential.
2-4.5.2 A tank installed in a vault may be considered to be a COMMITTEE AC'rION: Accept.
protected tank.
2-4.6 Piping and Ancillary Equipment.
2-4.6.1 Means shall be provided for determining the liquid level in
each tank and this means shall be accessible to the delivery operator.
Provisions shall be made either to automatically stop the delivery of 30A- 18 - (2-4.2.1): Reject
fuel to the lank when the liquid level in the tank reaches 98 percent SUBMrrrER: J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc., (Log
of capacity or to sound an audible alarm when the liquid level in the # 27)
tank reaches 95 percent of capacity. These provisions shall not Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Associations, Inc., (Log # 41)
restrict or interfere with the proper operation of either the normal RECOMMENDATION: Add new Exception as follows:
vent or the emergency vent. "Exception: This requirement shall not apply for fueling systems
2-4.6.2 Fuel shall not be dispensed from the tank by either gravity that comply with 9-3.5."
flow or pressurization of the tank. Means shall be provided to SUBSTANTIATION: This exception clarifies that fleet refueling of
prevent the release of liquid by siphon flow. vehicles used in connection with an owner's business is not limited
2-4.6.3 Where a tank is at an elevation that produces a gravity head by tank size.
on the dispensing device, the tank outlet shall be equipped with a COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
device (such as a normally closed solenoid waive) that will prevent COMMITTEE STATEMENT: Same as for Proposal 30A-11 (Log
gravity fiow from the tank to the dispenser. This device shall be Nos. 17 and 37).
located adjacent to and downstream of the outlet valve specified by
2-3.7.1 of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code. The
device shall be installed and adjusted so that liquid cannot flow by
gravity from the tank to the dispenser in the event of failure of the
piping or hose when the dispenser is not in use. 30A- 19 - (2-4.2.2(b)): Accept in Principle
2-4.6.4 If a submersible pump system is used, a listed emergency SUBMITrER: J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc., (Log
shut-offvalve shall be installed at each dispensing device, as required # 28)
by 4-3.6. Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Associations, Inc., (Log # 42)
2-4.6.5 If a suction pump-type dispensing device is used, a listed, Jerry C. Swart, Roadway Services, Inc., (Log # 48)
vacuum-actuated shut-offvalv-e, with a shear section, or equivalent- RECOMMENDATION: Delete 2-4.2.2(b).
tYE~xcValveshall be installed directly under each dispensing device. SUBSTANTIATION: It is impractical to require separation of
eption: Tanks installed in below-grade vaults need not comply above-ground tanks from dispensers by 50 ft. Many systems now in
with this requirement. use and being sold have dispensers mounted on top of the tank or
2-4.6.6 Shutoffand check valves shall be equipped with a pressure- immediately adjacent to the tanks.
relieving device that will relieve the pressure generated by thermal As a minimum, revise this requirement to apply to Class I liquids
expansion back to the tank. only.
2-4.6.7 Piping shall be routed so that exposure to physical damage COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept in Principle by means of proposed
is minimized. • incorporation into NFPA 30A of the amended version of TIA 90-1.
2-4.7 Physical Protection. See Proposal 30A-17.
2-4.7.1 Tanks that are not enclosed in vaults shall be enclosed with COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The concerns of the submitter are
a chain link fence at least 6 ft (2 m) high• The fence shall be addressed by Proposal 30A-17. Reductions in separation distances
separated from the tanks by at least 10 ft (3 m) and shall have a gate are available by using vaulted tanks or protected tanks.
that is properly secured against unauthorized entry. Aboveground
tanks shall be protected against vehicular collision by suitable
barriers.
Exception: Tanks are not required to be enclosed within a fence if
the property on which the tanks are located already has a Perimeter BOA-20 - (2-4.2.2(d)): Accept in Principle
security fence. SUBMITrER: J. David Winmger, Yellow Freight System, Inc., (Log
2-4.7.2 The area within the fence and within any dike shall be kept # 29)
free of vegetation, debris, and any other material that is not Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Associations, Inc., (Log g 43)
necessary to the proper operation of the tank and piping system. Jerry C. Swart, Roadway Services, Inc., (Log # 49)
2-4.8 Corrosion Protection. Any portion of a tank or its piping RECOMMENDATION: Delete 2-4.2.2(d).
system that is in contact with the soil shall be protected from SErgSTANTIATION: It is impractical to require 100 ft between an
corrosion in accordance with sound engineering practice. above-ground tank and property line. Sites are too small to meet
2-4.9 Tank Filling Operations. this requirement.
2-4.9.1 Delivery operations shall comply with applicabl¢ require- As a minimum, revise this requirement to apply to Class I liquids
ments of NFPA 385, Standard for Tank Vehicles for Flammable and only.
Combustible Liquids, and with the requirements of 2-4.9.2 through COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle by means of proposed
2-4.9.5. incorporation into NFPA 30A of the amended version of TIA 90-I.
2-4.9.2 The delivery vehicle shall be separated from any See Proposal 30A-17.
aboveground tank by at least 25 ft (7.6 m). COMMITTEE STATEMENT: See Committee Statement to Proposal
2-4.9.3 Tank filling shall not begin until the delivery operator has 30A-17 (Log Nos. 28, 42, 48)•
determined tank ullage (available capacity).
2-4.9.4 A check valve and shutoff valve with a quick-connect
coupling, or a check valve with a dry-break valve, shall be installed in
the piping at a point where connection and disconnection is made
for delivery from the vehicle to any aboveground tank. This device $0A- 21 - (2-4.$): Accept in Principle
shall be protected from tampering and physical damage. S u B M r r r E R : J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc., (Log
2-4.9.5 If the delivery hose is connected directly to the tank, the fill # so)
line at the tanks hall be equipped with a tight-fill device for Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Associations, Inc., (Log # 44)
connecting the hose to the tank to prevent or contain any spill at the RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
fill opening during delivery operations. 2-4.3 Control of Spillage. Spill control shall be provided in
Exception: A tank that has a capacity that does not exceed 1,000 accordance with 2-3.3 of NFPA 30 or in accordance with double wall
gad (3,800 L) need not meet this requirement. tank design or other means consistent with good engineering
SUBSTANTIATION: Ostensibly, this proposal incorporates into the
1993 edition of NFPA 30A a revised version of Tentative Interim
~ ractices•
UBSTANTIATION: This revision allows the use of double wall
Amendment (TIA) 90-1 to the 1990 edition of NFPA 30A. This TIA tanks to provide secondary containment, or other engineering
allowed aboveground storage of motor fuels at retail service stations solutions which are suitable to the site circumstances.
and at "fleeC-type service stations in quantitiesgreater than the COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle by means of proposed
previous maximum of 6000 gallons. (NFPA 30A, 9-3.5). incorporation into NFPA 30A of the amended version of TIA 90-1.
Since the adoption of the TIA in April, 1991, several new concepts See proposal 30A-17.
for aboveground fuel storage have been developed. These new
concepts have been addressed in this revised version of the TIA.

9
 NFPA 3 0 A - A93 TCR

COMM1TT~ ~ r A ~ , See Committee Statement to Proposal 4-2.10 Each dispendug device for Clam I and ~ II liquids, dudl
~k-17 (Lo~ No~ 28, 42, 48). be permitted to rave a n.ted tip over semltive device, to detect
movement, whereas any force ~ enough to move the d ~ . rain8
device from its point of oril0n, ~ ~ a n-ted automatect/
(Log # sl) manual emergency stopconu'ol devil. Such devices shall be
S0A-22- (2-4.5.S): Reject installed and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's
S ~ J. David Wininger, YellowFreight System, Inc. Imtructior~
RF~OMM~2qI~kTIONs Revi~ paragraph as f o l l o ~ SUBSTANTLt.TIONz It k no ~ : r e t that fires can and often do
2-4.5.$ Where tanks are at an elevation where a gravity head may occur when vehicles collide with dtspenmrs. The problem is when
be imposed on a dispensingdevice, the system ~ be ~ e d to ele, ~ c e l wiring is severed, a potential 18niflon murce k released.
prohibit liquid flow by 8ravlty from the tank in cue of pipt68 failure This deadshort or arch~ when wiree are pulled apart or pinched
or h o e failure when the di~emer is not in use. against broken electrical fittings allows the key.element to an
S.I.~STA/~1ATION, The wordin8 spe~.,eel is too restrictive to explm/ve reaction. With any fuel present within the dispemor
ap]~l~,m all cases. A mlenoid is not f~dble in some doslgm, e.g. containmentbox, the three necessary elements to support combus-
wtth large piping and flow~ In mine cesos,pip'rag fi'om the top of don are fulfilled. (OxTgen, Fuel, Source oflgnition).
the tani~with a vacuum breaker may be appi~.priite and just as ute. By eliminatingone of these emential element, for atpportin_~ the
Thit proposal win allowgoed de.ign to pi~vaiL combustion proceu, it is very likely we may eliminate a potential fire.
O ~ ~ ACTIOI~ Reject. To remove either the Oxysen or rue! spllla ~ is almost imp0uible,
CoMMrrT~ S T A ~ This pmpo~d is rejected for the same however, to shut off the power in electrical ~Jtng before the break
reason as for Propomd SOA-14(log #19). occure it definitely a viable mluflon.
The lubttandation for thit propmal is based upon state statistics
used as evidence to the prob]enL
COMMrITF~ ACTIONs Reject.
COMMrlT~ S T A ~ The Committee b of the opinion that
~)A- 28- (2-4.8.2): Reject there k no language in IWPA ~0A that wo~d prohibit ~ device
J. David Wininser, YellowFreight System, Inc., (Log from being ~ d . Tberffore, no additional language 4. comidered
necepary. The Committee points out that NFFA ~ k a minimum
~e~)n R. Schaeffer,AmericallTrucking AMoclationl,Inc., (Log # 45) standard.
RECOMMENDATIONs Delete 2-4.8.2.
~ A N T L ~ T I O N ~ It b impractical to require 25 ft separation
tween delivery vehicles and-above,Found tanks. In ~ systems,
4 in. diameter or greater hcee dzes are reed, makin8 25 ~ separa- (Log # 10)
tions extremely ~ As a minimum, revi~ this requirement to ~)A- 27- (4-2.6): Accept in Principle
apply to Clam I liquids on~. SuBMrlTEI~ Thomas Ba~olo, Bureau of State Fire Marshal
COMMITTEE ,4.CTIONs Reject. RECOMMENDATIONs Revise text as followg
C O M M n ' r E E &'rAT~M3h'qTs This reqeirem~t it a standard safety 4-2.6 H o e length at automotive tervtce statiom shall not exceed 18
requ~ement thathas been estabn-hedto correlatewith an identical R (5.5 m) where~hme length at marine service stations exceeds 18 ft
requirement in NFPA 80, Flammable and Combustible Liquids (5.5 m) a hose reel shall be provided. All hme shall be listed. When
Code. The Committee pointsout thatpart or allof thisseparation not in use, hose shall be m secured as to protect it from da~tge.
can be provided by fixed piping from the tank to the delivery S~~TIONI The code prosent~/limits h o e ien~_ at
conneciion. service stations to 18 feet. ~ h o e length may not be la~clent to
allow the fuelin~ of large watercraft at f u e l _ piers or where the
dispensing equipment at a marina is located on shore.
(Log # ss) G O ~ ALl'ION, Accept in Principle, but editorially revhe
S0A-24- (2-4.8.4): Accept the language to read:
SUBMITrE~ J. David W'minger, YellowFreisht System, Inc. "4-2.6-Allhoe shall be listed. H o e length at automod~ service
~£,O~TIONs Add new Exception as followt: stattom shall not exceed 18 ft (5.5 m). Where hose length at marine
"Excepdon: This requirement shall not apply to .aboye-smund service stadom exceeds 18 fl (5.5 m), the hose shall be secured ao as
mnla filled from the top or m systemswith an off loading pump that to protect it from damage."
Is l~rmmendypart of rite a b u W - ~ n n d tank ~Fttem and wbere GOMMrYr~ S T A T ~ , Editorial chansa have been made to
bac~ow from the above-ground tank is prevented by alternate improve the readability of this requirement.
means. =
BUBSTAN'rIATION~ The exbdng 2-4.8.4 k too restrictive in that it
does not cover top fill sitmtiom. In addition, in fuel tyttena
emplpyin,g an offk~ading pump as part of the fuel ty~tem, the check (Los # 2O)
ii ddwmtream from the i~uml~in most simadom rather than at SOA-28 - (4-2.6): Accept in Principle
the point of connection to the delfveryvehicle. SuBMrITEIh J. David Wm/nger,Yellow Freight System, Inc.
COMMITT~ AcrIONs Accept. RECO~TION: Revi~ text to read u follows:
"Hoe lehigh at service mtiom ,hall not exceed 18 ft (5.5 m)
unless required for fueling of large vehlclel (e.g. u ~ i a ) and
,appr~_d'by the authod~havigS-j.urh~tcdon. All hoe. ~ be
rated. When not in me, h o e s h ~ be w secured m protect it trom
25 - (&7(New)): Accept
S U B M I r n ~ Committee on Automotive and Marine Service ON, The 18 R length k not suitable for safe and
Smtiom efficient fueling of both saddle tank or ~ trucks. This revision
RECOMMENDATIONs Add a new Section 8-7 to read: allows flexibility for non-automotivedmauom.
"Shut-off and check valvesshall be equipped with a prema~'- C O M M I T I ~ ACTIONz Accept in Principle by means of the action
relievingdevicethatwillrelieveany premure generat~l by thermal on P r o ~ a l S0A-27(Log #I0).
expansion of the contained liqu/d hick to the storage tank" c o M b f f r l ~ STATEMENT: See Committee :~tatement to Proposal
SUBSTANTIATIONs This requirement addresses the hazard of s0A-27 (Log #I0).
..ove~.r.euurizatinnof a piping system due to thermally-blocked in
ttqufd in an abovegromid pi~Une.
c o M M r r r ~ ACTIONs Accept.
(Log # 7)
S0A-29- (42.8): Reject
SUBM/TYE~ Jeffr~ L. Leiter, Independent Gasoline Marketem of
(Loft # 14) America
30A-26- (4-1.~(New), 4-1.10(New)): Reject RECO~TIONz Delete first sentence of 4-2.8.
s u ~ M r r r l ~ wmitm D. Hunter, BEKManufacmring, Inc. SUB~ANT~TIONt The Society o f I n d e ~ n d e n t Gasoline
~.~OMMINDATION, Add new text as follows: Marketers of,america ('SIGMA') opposes the National Fire
4-1.$ A n-ted.automated/manualem_ergencystop control ~ be Protection Aa~tation's ('NEPA') propoud to amend the current
.permitted at • tocauon._ngdllyaccmible to a ~luellfledatteneam, to prohibition in its "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code" for
rout offthe power to alldlqMimln| devicesand amoclatedv& .dnl.in iervlce statlom ('NFPA SOA') which would require that dispensers
the event of an emm'len~. The ~talIaflon shallbe in aceee4m]ce used m fill portable con.miners with home headn8 fuel, (Lf~
with the n u m u t k m r ~ , hSm~cdom. kerosene) 6e located at least 20 feet from the nearest Clam I liquids

10
 NFPA 3 0 A - A93 TCR

( opt'd, • ('Pro_l~ml
Kinoline) dispenser _ S0A-11"). Pro_pored_ ~M)A.11,it"
would p~ce com/derable economic h a r d i l y , on
~ A N T I A T I O N s It has come to the Committee's attention that
there can be feedback of 110 volt control current via control
independentgamlinemarketers, while at the mune time, depriving c o c o i o r c u l ~At
A l n ~ a hazard to service permnnel.
consumers m a source for heating their homes and bmineme~ ONg Accept.
Moreover, SIGMAquestions whether public safetywillbe increased
by the addition of the ~-foot prohl~don to the existing ban on the
sale of home he _atingfuels into ~ . ~ l e containers from the same (Los # is)
cti.pera/ng island as ~ I liquids. If NFPA adopts Propmal ~0A-11,
exisdng locations should not be required to be reconflgurecL S~&'~6)~ettesch, UntvermlValve Company Inc.
SIGMA.is a national trade smo~i~on of apprmdma~ 800_ RECO~TION: Add new sentence as follow~
independent marketers and private-brand ~ retailersof motor "Emergency shutoff valve should maintain a 100.per~'nt (I00%)
fuels. SIGMA'smembers market refined petroleum ,product-in all Hquld tight seal when the replaceable shear top is otiS"
50 Statesthrough more than 11,000retailoutletswhich they own SUBSTANTIATIONs If.the mbmer~-d pump is acctdentany m m m
and opert~. Ifi addition, SIGMAmembers supply product- to an on during shear top reptacement, th~ fekmre would eliminate any
additional 18,700 retail gasoline outlets. SIGMAmembers' sales pouible escape of product (gasoline, etc.) under premure through
account for nearly 17 percent of the motor fuels sold at the retail the emergency shutoff valve. Thus, eliminatingpi~ible injury, fire,
level in the United States. or death.
SIGMAop _pinesthe pmpmed 20-foot r e q u l r ~ e n t between c o M M r r l ~ ACTIONs Reject.
gemfine and kermene diipensers became the limitation has CoMMrITI~ S T A ~ s The poadbllity .duit the emergency
practical problem~ Ifthe ~q).footrequirement isadopted, indepen- shutoff valve may notprovide a 100 percent tight seal is a]reidy
dent gasoline nmrketcrs would experience com/derable economic anticipated by virtue of maintenance procedures stated in 4-2.9.
.hardship, because they would be forced to repipe underground
lines, move dispeme~ tear up. existing islandsand construct new
islands. More6ver, many retailgasoline sites,esped'aIlyin the
Northeast, are not large enough to accommodate this~)-foot (Los # S)
limitation. The lots at many o~ these rites can best be described as 80A- 82 - (Cl~pter 5, Table 6): Reject
~S_tage staml~" and, given the location of the gasoline islands and S U B ~ Leslie L. Wcdge, Redford Township Fire De _parunent
l~ulldin~, it would be necessayyto discontinue kerosene tales. The RECOMMIDCDATIONs 1. A2idnew Chapter 5, Pits, Below Grade,
result would be that independent gasoline marketers would lose an and Sub41oorWork Areas.
importimt source of income, At the same time; cousumers would be 5-1 No comment.
deprived of a convenient source of kerosene for heating their homes 5-1.1 No comment.
and bmtneswJ. For example, many independent gamlL'te marketers 5-1.1.2 In pits, below grade areas, and sub-floor areas, the required
supply kermene to urban and inner-city resident- who do not have number, locadon and com.tru,cdon of means of_egress shall comply
the me.of an automobile to carry the kermene in portable contain- with the provisions mr tpecuu purpmeindustrial occupancies in
ers I x ~ to their homes. Further, these customers cannot use public Chapter 28 OfNFPA 101, Life Safety Code. Stairs shalgbe non-
tmnq~o~_'on to transport the home heating fuel. It is important to combustible, dip-proof, and constructed with no accesaible space
these people that keroiene be available near their homes. NFPA, undemeath.
therefore, should be cautious that, flit. 20-footproposal isadopted, section 5-1.2 should read as follows:
it would deprive e~endal home heating oil supplies to many people. "Pit- shell have a minimum of two exit- so located and exit accea
Ind~pende4~t~mlinemarketers, thus, shouldriot be burdened with be m arranged that exit. are readily accemlble at all times.
Stairs shall be non-comlmstible, slip-proof, and comtructed with no
Relocating k e ~ . e disRemers at Ipsoline marketing facilities accessible space underneath.
would crea~ interior tramc congemon and confusing u-a~c . 2. ReviteTable6byaddinlF Whis revh/on is unwarranted because
patterns, many petroleum d e l i v ~ trucks could not get onto me ,4tc pr0Rmed Section 5-I.$ reqmres "all pit. below grade work areas and
_to"dro.p" product became o~ the relocated kermene dispemert imb;floorwork areas" shall-be ventilated at a rate of not leas than 1
l~venit a ate hm room for an additional island for the kero~ne clan persq ft of floor area at aI! times that the bulldln8 is eccopied
dispemer, local tuning ordinances may prevent the independent or when vehicles are parked in or over these areas."
.~-~olinemarketer from comtructing a new island for the kerosene SUBSTANTIATIONs C o ~ c Note thatSecdon2&l.4.1(b)
mspemer. SPECIALPURPOSE INDUSTRIALOCCUPANCYincludes ordinary
SIGMAunderstands that the 20-foot limitation Is being proposed as and low hazard MANUFALTUR~Gopemdom in
an addition to the same dispensing island prohibition D~auie fire d ~ i p e d for and mhable ONLYfor ~ type, ofo _l~ratiom,
omciak are concerned that marketers are se~[roent!ngone island c~terized by a relatively low deniity of e m p l ~ . e pol~ulation,
into two or more pieces to avoid the prohibiuon. As an alternative with much o~ the area occupied by ~ e x y or eqmpment.
to the ~-foot require_ment, SIGMA suggests that phyt/cal barriers Since the pit and sub-floor work areas ofa repa/r garage more
canoj~ypore) between the k e r m ~ e d i a p e ~ r and the ag£11gSg~/effect the pit or sub-floor work area of the ~ervice station,
gamline dbpemen is one way to ~ the fi/e oefi¢i~' concerto. NFPA 88B is the mor~ suitable reference.
In add/don, a booth island could have a gasoline dispemer on one NFPA 88B 2-7 requires *_t~-quate exits to prevent trapping of
side and a kermene pump on the other without confusing the personnel, in the event of fire."
public. Moreover, requiring clear labelin~ or signage on the Since NFPA 101 requires "the minimum number of means of e[F~_
dispensers would help m el~eviatemisfi~elingsituations. from any stow or portion thereof shall be two" and exceptions apply
F~ally, the .~foot tumtadon may not solve the problem of a to ~ections 8-80, authorities havingjurisdiction require two exits.
customer maavertendy taking a kermene container up to a gamline The proposa ! would change the z~-qulrement- to one when the
dispenser and filling it with gainline. Having the kerosene d i s p e ~ excepti6n to NFPA I01 28;2.4.1 is.a-ppliedwhich reads "in pa~t"
in the line of tight of the attendant is necessary to minimize such provided that the exit can be reach~ within the first 50 feet from
occurrences. A requirement that the keroeene dispenser be more ow and ordinary hazard uccopancies.
than 20 feet from the gasoline pumpe, in many instances, would ACTIONs Reject,
remove the kerosene pump from the attendant's line of sight. COMM1TI~ S T A ~ s The facilities addressed by Chapter 5
c o M M r r r ~ ACTIONs Reject. of NFPA 80P, are generally small and do not compare in haza~ to
COMMrFrEE STATEMENT: The Code text to which the mbmittcr repah-,garages covered byNFPA 88B. The Commiuee feel- that the
object- was added to NFPA 30A to address a bona fide safety issue: reqmrement- embodiedby this pmpoml are too severe for the type
mmmkenlypumping gasoline into portable containers intended for of occupancy being addreued.
kermene for portable kerosene heater,. The fire incident recom
has shown tiuit such mistakes have lead to several severe, sometimes
fatal, fires in res/dence8 where the incorrectfuel was sub,,equendy
used. SOA-SS - (6-1.5): Accept
SUBMITrg~ Committee on Automotive and Marine Service
Stations
RECOMMENDATIONt ~ 6-1~ to read:
S 0 - (4-2.9(b)): Accept "Fire doors shall be kept unol~tructed at all times. Fire doors shall
SUBMrrrE~ Committee on Automotive and Marine Service be marked "Fire Door -Do Not Block."
Stadom SUBSTANTIATIONI The revised wording replaces the very
I~COMMENDATIONs Revise 4-2.9(b) to read: ambiguous language of the previous edition.
"All electrical ~ to the dispensing[devices, to .the pump serCmg COMMYYrEE ~CTION: Accept.
the dispemlng devices, and to all ~ controt c i v e t - shall be
shut off at the main electrical disconnect panel.

11
 N F P A 30A - - A93 T C R

(loS#e)
~ 1 ~:. ~ t w i n i n g e r , YeliowFreisht Sysunn, Inc., (Log 88. (9-2.2): Accept in Principle
#21) SUaMrrr£1h Attain F.. Mitternudef, Gamline Pump Manof~mrers
Allen It. Schaeffer, American TrucklngAsmciatiom, Inc., (Loll # $8) /mee.
I~EC.,O~TIONs Revise text to read as follows: IW,O D M M ~ k T I O N s Revise 9-2.2 to read:
'The diapenaing area shall be located at street level with no "Portable containers shall not be filled while containers are in or
dispensefl ~ t e d , more than 50 ft (15 M) from the vehicle exit w, or on a motor vehicie or a marlne craft."
entrance fi'om, the out lde of the buildins. This distance ._maybe SUBSTANTIATION~ I. Cu,tomer was filling &galiun can in the
increased to 100 it (SO M) when ~ Chum1I or III liquids." bed of his pick up truck on June 12,1987 at ~lelanto, C~dtfornla.
SUB,~ANTIATIONs The 50 h limltattonl~not femible in some s u ~ e~¢6~dty~p~tedihn~es and burned him. ~ $85,OOO',,
larse fleet fueling openuina~ involving uTtctor-trailerunits. It is medical
_m~_._~ mj allow 100 it in theee instances when Clam II or m fuais 2. Cmtomer pump~ diesel fnel into fq_gaIl.~on ~m in the bed of his
Rick up truck onJuke 11,1987 at N o . ~ , California. Evidently
C O M M I T r ~ AL~ON, Reject. me can contained gas fumes that were isni~d along with the plasd¢
CoMMrYrI~ ~ r f A ~ See Committee Action on Prgpomd bedliner. Result: Medlcalbliisln exce~of~q)0,000.
.S0A-2 (Lo8 #15). The exemption for motor freight termiuali Therefore, portable containers need to be seton the 8round to
eliminatesthe need for the proposed change to 6-2.1. p.rovide an additional ground path and to allow gas ~ to
~D~'rse~Ols
ACnOS, A .pt in X nciplc.
Revise 9.2.2 to read *Portable containers of 12 p r o m capacity or
(Log # 22) less shall not be filled while they are in or on a motor vehicle or
SOA-S5- (6-2.2): Reject marine craft."
s u a ~ J. Davki Wininger, YellowFreisht System, Inc. COMMITTEE STAT~MI~qTs The Committee _qFee, with the
R.~A)MMENDATION: Delete 8-2.2. conceme of the mbmRter, but r e ~ the neL-dto establish a
SUBSTaTIONs ~ facilities (e.$. fleet operators) have a maximum capacity to which the requirement appUes. Conminm
neect to fuel more than four vehicles at one time. It/s recom- larger,than 12 gallonsare not usual~ used and,"i~theyare,willbe
mended to delete the requirement limidn 8 fueling to no more than too heavy to IL~and maneuver, once filled,thus crea~, a serious
four vehicles at une drne due to practicalconsider~iorm. " .pro The. ? saUon upper U .t iscon . th the
COMMrrrK~. ACTIONs ReJect. ~ are ~ Dy consIu~erll ~ r noDl~ &llcll~lu-lneiJ~le.
coMMIrrJ~ S T A ~ s Seecommlttee Action on.Propoml
SO&-2 (Log #15). The exemption for motor fre~ht tenninali
the need for this proposed chanse to6.2.2.
89- (9~.2): Accept
Committee on Automotive and Marine Service
(Log # 2S) Stations
~ - ~e- (e.s.7(~ew)): ~zject KgCOMJ~U~qDATIONs Delete the word "qualified."
J. David Wtifinser, YellowFreiSht System, InC. SUBSTANTIATIONs The word "qualified"cannot be defined.
I~gC.~)MM]gND).TIONs Add new paragraph as foliows: O D M M I T r ~ A~rlONs Accept.
6-$.7 The . ~ i o m of 6.$ do not app]y ~d~endispensing ChumII
and Ill liquids.
S ~ A N T I A T I O N s Ventilation requirements for ,ale op ~ o n (Los # 12)
differ between flammable ( ~ I) mid combustible (Clmi II & HI) SOA-40 - (9-&5): Reject
~,~. a m n t m liquid, present nowhere near the hazard *, sue t'rey, Tank k Ufs. CO.
liquids _andshould notbe required to be ventilated.to the ~XIOMMENDATIONs Reviie textM muowE
same d e ~ e . It is not femible nor energy efficient to venulate large_ 9-8,5 The provisionsof 2-1.lshallnot pmhlblt the "digpentlngof
interior .peces (inch a. large fleet t r a c k e r fueling openuiom) liquidsin the ope~_from a fueld i s p e ~ systemsuppl~d by an
to 1 CFM/SF nor m locate ~ exhamt ducts between S In. and 12 ._ a-~ _ und t~nk,not w _e~__eecl_6000 ga] (22,700L~, for a dam I
in. above the floor as required by dd~ section. liquid and 12000 gal (4.5,400L) for a ~ 2 liquid, located at
CoMMrrrEE ACTIOI~ Reject. commercial, e re.
C , O ~ ~rAT~M~NTs This requirement is comldered S U B S T a T I O N s There is a com~erable difference in the
nece.mu7 because there m y be times when the _dispen~..d ~ II beee~pmurebetween a ciau I and a clam 2 liquid. Thk s c i o n hm
liquid is above its flMhpoint, dua to unusuallyhigh ambient air n interpreted to allowa 6000 81dwith clam I and a 6000 p l with
temperature. clam 2. To allow 12000 gal of ciau 2 is a lower exlm,mre tha/~
presently allowed. With today'sdeliverytankers-CmTyingaround
~ e~ d~cy of d¢live~ and price ¢omidermiom require the
(t~#xl) abilityof a facilityto be able to .ac~pt an 8000 gall_ondeliv~y while
SOA-$7 - (8-4, 8-4.1(New)): Accept in Part sdllhaving a reasonableworking inventoryin s~ock.
S ~ Doughu l ~ e , Rareish, NC C A ) ~ A I ~ O N s RejecL
]~30~TIONs ~ text as followg CA)MMrrI'J~ STATEMENTs The ~ flexibility for increased
1. Revise 8-4 as follows: "Heating equipment m/rig gas or oil fuel rank cap~cityis a~-,ady p ~ d e d by the propmed i n - - o n of
may be inwdl.._edin the lubrication or ~ room ~liere there is no the amended version 0fTIA 90-1. See aim Committee Statement to
dh~8 or tran~erring of C l m I liquidL" Propo~ SOA-S(Log #52).
2. Add new 8-4.1 as follow~
8-4.1 Solid fnel stoves Le. wood burning shali not be permitted in
any lubrication, service room, ~ garage facility.
SUBSTANTIATIONs Large nmi~be~-of~lid fuelheaters present in
service bay~ ,Wnployee~are storing combmtible liquids in cime SOA-41 - (9-&5): Accept
.Rroximityof the~ type heater~. H-eatersreed to take the chin o/Tin 8UBMrlTE~ Comm[uee on Automotive and Marine Service
ihe mo and du//n cold days. . Stations
A -no s in po.d RECOMM]gCDATIONz Delete 9-S.5 entirely.
new 8-4.1 and revise it to read: SUIRTANTIATIONs The needs of the communitya d ~ by 9-
"Solid/h_el stoves shall not be permitted in any lubrication room or 8.5 are now adequately met by new Sectimt 2-4.
CoMMrITI~ AL'TIONs Accept.
Also, .rico.ughout Chapter 8, replace the phrase "heating equip-
ment" wire the phrase "heat pro~ucin8 appliances."
coMMrI'rl~ STA~s I. The ~ t t e r ' s proposed section
8-4 reads exactly as Section 8-4 in the current edRion of NFPA MA- SOA-4~- (9.S.5)' _Reject
No. change is n~-eded. S U B M I T F £ ~ J. David Wininger,Yellow Fre/ghtSystem,Inc.,(Log
2. The dumse to p mpmed 84.1 deletes the reference to "repa/r #~4)
garage~" which aren't covered in NFPA Allen It. Schaee~, American Trucking Aamciatiom, Inc., (Los # 89)
-8. The replacement isto incorporateaccepted terminology. JerryC. Swart,l~xubv~y Servlc~ Inc.,(Leg#SO)
IW.COMM~qDATIONs Revise the tint l~aRraph to read m foliow~
"The prov~om of 2-1.1 shall not prohibit die ~ ~Chum I
and II liquids from a fuel dispens/ng system supplied by ah above-

12
 NFPA 30A -- A93 TCR

ground tank or tanks of unlimited size located at commercial, fleet SUBSTANTIATION: This proposal requires any suppression system
operator, industrial, governmental, or manufacturing establish- to be installed properly, in accordance with recognized standards
ments, and intended for fueling vehicles used in connection with and in accordance with the requirements and parameters under
their business. Such dispensing shall be permitted provided:..." which the system is listed. Apparently, some suppression systems are
SUBSTANTIATION: The intent of this revision is to remove the being installed not in accordance with the applicable NFPA
6000 gallon cap on tank size and let NFPA 30 prevail. This low limit standards.
does not begin to meet the need for storage capacity of high volume COMMITrEE ACTION: Accept.
fuel users with large fleets. Also, the term "fleet operator" is
introduced to reinforce the intent of this section.
In addition, the words "in the open" were deleted to recognize that
many fleets refuel inside buildings (the above-ground tanks are 30A- 46 - (10-1.1): Accept
outside, but the dispensing is inside). SUBMITIT.,P¢ J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc., (Log
COMMITrEE ACTION: Reject. # 26)
COMMITFEE STATEMENT: See Committee Statement to Proposal Allen R. Schaeffer, American Trucking Associations, Inc., (Log # 40)
30A-8 (Log #52). n~A~MM]~NDATI.
Swart, Roadway Services, inc., (Log # 51)
O N : Add NFPA 513, Motor Freight Terminals,
to the list of NFPA publications that by reference shall be considered
part of the requirements of NFPA 30A.
(Log # 25) SUBSTANTIATION: The addition of this language supports
30A- 43 - (9-3.5(d)): Reject another proposal submitted to reference NFPA 513 for fueling
SUBMrIWER: J. David Wininger, Yellow Freight System, Inc. activities relating to motor freight terminals.
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text to read as follows: COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.
(d) The tank complies with requirements for emergency relief
venting and the tank and dispensing system meet the electrical
classification requirements o f the code. (Log # 2)
SUBSTANTIATION: The intent of this revision is to delete the 30A- 47 - (Table 7): Accept in Principle
reference to paragraph 2-1.7, which requires a device (such as a SUBMITrER: Attain E. Mittermaier, Gasoline Pump Manufacturers
solenoid dewce) adjacent to and downstream of the main cutoff Assoc.
valve at the above-ground tank. In large systems, this is not feasible RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
from an engineering standpoint. Under "Dispenser", replace NEC Class Division "1" with a ":"
COMMYITEE ACTION: Reject. (colon).
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: See Committee Statement to Proposal SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial correction. Since the area classifica-
30A-14 (Log #19). tion inside a dispenser is covered by ANSI/UL 87, Underwriters
Laboratories will determine the classification of each of the areas
inside a dispenser.
COMMITIT~EACTION: Accept in Principle. In Table 7, relocate
(Log # 9) the Note referring to UL87 to the bottom of the Table and precede
30A- 44 - (9-7): Accept in Principle it with a triple-asterisk (***). Add a triple-asterisk to the entries for:
S U B ~ Michael A. Pierce, Boca Raton, FL - Dispensing Device (except overheadtype)
RECOMMENDATION: The following wording changes (additions - Dispensing Device (overhead type)
underlined) should be made to the first complete sentence of - Lubrication or Service Room Dispenser for Class I Liquids
Section 9-7: C O M M r r r E E STATEMENT: The Committee-proposed changes to
"In addition to the previous restrictions of this chapter, the Table 7 accomplish the objectives of the Submitter]n a more
following shall apply There shall be no smoking or open flames editorially-consistent fashion.
within 50 ft of the areas or within the service room of a building
fo~g, servicing fuel systems for internal combustion-
engines, or within 50 feet of the equipment or area used for
receiving or dispensing Class I liquids~ whether or not that equip- (Log # 8)
ment is currently in use. 30A-48- (Table 7): Reject
SUBSTANTIATION: Section 9-7 states that 'There shall be no SUBMITrER: DennisL. Rowe, Albany, NY
smoking or open flames in the area used for fueling, servicing fuel RECOMMENDATION: Amend the words "Class I Division 2" as
systems for internal combustion engines, or receiving or dispensing they apply to a "Lubrication or Service Room - without Dispensing"
Class I liquids." As the basis for local laws on fire prevention, the in the "Entire space within any pit used for lubrication or similar
Ptihrase "in the area used for" is too subjective, open to interpreta- services where (lass I liquids may be released.", to require that area
on, and can not be used as the basis for enforcement. be a ~ass 1 Division 1 location.
On many occasions, personnel employed by service stations have SUBSTANTIATION: A pit or depression below floor level as
been obsdrved smoking near gasoline pumps and while working in specified in Article 511.3(b) is essentially the same environment as
service bays. When management of stations have been warned of that provided for in the Table of 514.2. Therefore, there should be
this violation, they refuse to take action, claiming that the law (which correlation between 511.3(b) and 514.2 as afforded by the suggested
refers to the NFPA code in Florida) only prohibits smoking while amendment.
actually dispensing fuel. Sheriff's deputies and members of the local C O M M r r r E E ACTION: Reject.
fire department have stated the same thing. C O M M r r r E E STATEMENT: The "Division 2" designation is
Section 9-7 should be modified to state a specific distance from fuel correct as originally intended.
dispensing equipment, as it does for electrical devices, and state that
it applies whether it is currently dispensing fuel or not. A 50 foot
restriction should be the minimum considered.
COMMITrEEAC'rION: Accept in Principle. Revise the first Editorial Corrections
sentence of 9-7 to read:
"In addition to the previously-stated restrictions of this Chapter, The Committee on Automotive and Marine Service Stations notes
smoking materials, including matches and lighters, shall not be used the following editorial corrections to the 1990 Edition of NFPA 30A,
within 20 ft (6 m) of areas..." Automotrive and Marine Service Station Code, and incorporates
C O M M I T r E g STATEMENT: The proposed changes to the these corrections into the proposed 1993 Edition.
submitter's language is more easily understood.
- In Subsections 2-1.1(e) and 2-2.1, change "Section 2-3" to read
"Section 2-4."
- In Subsection 2-3.4, change "Sections 2-1 and 4-2" to read
30A- 45 - (9-8.1 (New)): Accept "Sections 2-2 and 4-2."
SUBMITrER: Committee on Automotive and Marine Service
Stations - In Table 7, for the entry for "Lubrication or Service Room -
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new 98.1 to read: without Dispensing, ~ the refernece to "6-1.3" should read "5-1.$."
"Where required, automatic fire suppression systems shall be
installed in accordance with appropriate NFPA standards, manufac-
turers instructions, and the listing requirements of the systems." (See
Chapter 10 for referenced publications)

13
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

PART II 30- 6 - (1-2): Accept (Log # 57)

SUBMITrER: R. Bruce Hartman, American Petroleum Institute
(Log # 9) RECOMMENDATION: Revise definitions as follows:
30- 1 - (1-1.8): Accept Vapor Processing Equipment. Those components of a vapor
SUBMITrER: Ronald K. Bartley, Dayton, OH processing system designed to process vapors or liquids captured
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text to read as follows: during filling operations.
"Installations made in accordance with the applicable requirements Vapor Processing System. A system designed to capture mad
of standards of the National Fire Protection Association: NFPA 30A, process vapors displaced during filling operations by use of
Automotive and Marine Service Station Code..." mechanical or chemical means. Examples are systems using blower-
SUBSTANTIATION: The document referred to as NFPA 30A is assist for capturing vapors and refrigeration, absorption, and
incorrectly titled. The change as proposed will rectify the incorrect combustion systems for processing vapors.
wording. Vapor Recover System. A system designed to capture and retain,
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. without processing, vapors displaced during filling operations
~c,~l~ o:-.GG.;~, L~Ik ~.l~io, G~ t~mli~.d'~. Examples are balanced-
pressure vapor displacement systems and vacuum assist systems
withou.t vapor processing.
(LOg # 6) SUBSTANTIATION: The definitions ofvaporprocessing andvapor
30- 2 - (1-2): Accept recovery systems need to be more broad in application. Vapor
SUBMITrER: Roger Singh, Insurers' Advisory Organization Inc. recovery and vapor processing are used in other facilities in addition
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: to service stations, bulk plants, and terminals.
Combustible Liquid. A liquid having a closed cup flash point at or COMMrlTEE Ac'rION: Accept, but change the word "filling" to
above 100°F (37.8°C). "transfer" in all three definitions.
SUBSTANTIATION: This will clarify the definition. COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The change made by the Committee
Flash points can either be open cup or closed cup. Closed cup eliminates any ambiguity regarding filling versus emptying.
testing methods vary considerably and give completely different (Normally, one item is filled, while another is emptied.)
results to open cup methods. Currently, NFPA recognizes only five
ASTM closed cup methods.
C O M M r r r E E ACTION: Accept.
(Log # 72)
30- 7 - (1-2, 2-2.6 (New), 2-3 through 2-3.1.1, 2-3.2, 2-3.2.1, 2-3.2.6
(New), 2-3.3): Reject
(Log # 16) SUBMrrrER: Rick Thornberry, The Code Consortium, Inc./
30-3- (1-2): Reject ConVault
$UBMITrER: RussellJ. Keriin, Dow Coming Corporation RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
RECOMMENDATION: Add definition of Standard Fire Wall as 1. Revise the following definitions:
follows: Liquid. For the purpose of this code, any material that has a
Standard Fire Wall. For purposes of this standard, a fire wall with fluidity greater than that of 300 penetration asphalt when tested in
minimum 4 hour resistance and designed not to fail in the event of a accordance with ASTM E 5, Test for Penetration for Bituminous
fire on either side of the wall. Also includes minimum 3 ft parapet Materials. When not otherwise identified, the term liquid shall
or where adjacent roof heights are different, extension of the fire mean ~ flammable m ~ or combustible liquids, or any combina-
wall to a height necessary and as dictated by accepted engineering tion thereof.
practices to minimize fire exposure to the adjacent building. Underground Secondary Containment Tank. ~ An underground
SUBSTANTIATION: Table 4-4.2.1 (reorganized ch.; 4-5.7.1 of tank having an inner and outer wall with an interstitial space
existing chapter) requires fire walls for liquid warehouses by (annulus) between and having means for monitoring the interstitial
"standard" fire walls. This term is not now defined. space for a leak in either wall. Underground Secondary contain-
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. ment tanks are of either Type I or Type II construction.
COMMITrEE STATEMENT: The definition proposed by the Service Stations.
submitter does not adequately address all the concepts of a fire wall. Automotive Service Station. That portion of a property where
liquids used as motor fuels are stored and dispensed from fixed
equipment into the fuel tanks of motor vehicles or approved
containers and which ma~ sqrat¢ include any facilities ~ f o r the
sale and service of tires, batteries, and accessories. This definition
30- 4- (1-2): Accept ghall also apply to buildings, or portions of buildings, used for
SUBMITrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids lubrication, inspection, and f~- minor automotive maintenance
RECOMMENDATION: Amend the defini~on of "Storage Tank" to work, such as tune-ups and brake system repairs, but not for major
read: automotive repairs, painting, and body and fender work m-e
"Any vessel having a liquid capacity that exceeds 60 gallons, is excluded.
intended for fixed installation, and is not used for processing." 2. Add the following new definitions:
SLri~TANTIATION: This revision better differentiates between a Protected Aboveground Storage Tank. A construction assembly
storage tank, as intended to be covered by Chapter 2, and any other consistinkgof an aboveground storage tank with protective construc-
type of vessel. tion which prowdes the tank vath secondary containment, protec-
COMMITrEE ACTION: Accept. tion from physical damage, and fire resistive protection from a high
intensity flammable liquid pool fire exposure.
Secondary Containment. Construction that is liquid tight and
designed to contain the entire liquid contents of the primary storage
tank for which secondary containment is desired should a leak occfir
30- 5 - (1-2): Accept in the primary storage tank.
SUBM1TrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids 3. Add a new Section 2-2.6 to read as follows:
RECOMMENDATION: Add to Section 1-2, Definitions, a new term 2-2.6 Protected Aboveground Storage Tanks.
"Storage Tank Building," as follows: 2-2.6.1 Protected aboveground storage tanks shall operate as an
"Storage Tank Building. A roofed structure that contains storage atmospheric tank.
tanks and which limits the dissipation of heat or the dispersion of 2-2.6.2 Protected aboveground storage tanks shall be listed as a
flammable vapors or restricts fire fighting access and control and protected aboveground storage tank in accordance with nationally
which is installed tn accordance with the requirements of Section recognized standards.
2-5." Exception: Listed aboveground storage tanks may be used as a
SUBSTANTIATION: This definition is necessary for proper protected aboveground storage tank when installed in a special
correlation with and understanding of the newly-proposed Chapter endosure constructed in accordance with Section 2-2 of NFPA 30A,
5. Automotive and Marine Service Station Code.
COMMITYEE ACTION: Accept. 2-2.6.3 Protected Aboveground storage tanks shall be limited to a
maximum capacity of 6,000 gallons.
4. Revise text as follows:
2-3 Installation of Outside Aboveground Tanks.

14
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

2-3.1 Location with Respect to Property Lines, Public Ways, and (Log # 5)
Important Buildings on the Same Property. 30-8- (2-2.3.4 (New)): Reject
2-3.1.1 Every aboveground tank for the storage of Class I, Class II, SUBMITrER: J. Martin Mayer, CORESPAN, Inc.
or Class IIIA liquids (except as provided in 2-3.1.2), and those RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows:
liquids with boil-over characten~stics and unstable liquids, operating 2-2.3.4 Aboveground Double Wall Horizontal Storage Tanks.
at pressures not in excess of 2.5 psig (17.2 kPa) and designed with a When protection of adjoining property or waterways is by means of
weak roof-to-shell seam (see 2-3.5.3), or equipped with emergency Double Wall Horizontal Storage Tanks, such system shall be
venting devices that will not permit pressures to exceed 2.5 prig manufactured in accordance with applicable ASTM Standards and
(17.2 kPa), shall be located in accordance with Table 2-1. Where paragraph 2-2.3.3 be omitted. The minimum distance between tanks
tank spacing is contingent on a weak roof-to-shell seam design, the shall b e 5 ft (1.5 M).
user shall present evidence certifying such construction to the SUBSTANTIATION: Problem: No provision in code for Double
authority having jurisdiction, upon request. Wall Above Ground Storage Horizontal Tanks.
Exception: Protected aboveground storage tanks need not comply Substantiation: Impounding around tanks by diking is a' back-up
with this section provided that a separation distance of at least 5 feet system applicable only to the secondary or momentary containment
is maintained between such tanks and any adiacent property line of a total Single Wall Tank failure, whereas a Double Wall Tank in
that is or can be built upon, public ways~ and important buildings on reality is a tank within a tank, therefore allowing no escape of
the same property. product to ground or air.
Remainder of section to remain as is. COMMYITEE ACTION: Reject.
5. Revise 2-3.2 as follows: COMMrITEE STATEMF.a'qT: A double-wall tank is not considered
2-3.2 Spacing (Shell-to-Shell) between any Two Adjacent to be a substitute for the spill control provisions of Chapter 2 of
Aboveground Tanks. NFPA 30. Also, the double-wall feature offers no protection from
2-3.2.1 Tanks storing Class I, II, IIIA stable liquids shall be failure of piping or connections to the tank.
separated in accordance with Table 2-7, except as provided in 2-3.2.2
through 2-3.2.6.
6. Add a new Section 2-3.2.6 as follows and renumber the existing
2-3.2.6 as 2-3.2.7: (Log # 93)
2-3.2.6 Protected aboveground storage tanks need only be 30- 9 - (2-3.3.2): Accept
separated from adjacent tanks by 3 feet to allow for maintenance SUBMITrER: D. L. Blomquist, API
and inspection. RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
7. Revise 2-3.3 as follows: 2-3.3.2 Remote Impounding. Where protection of adjoining
2-3.3 Control of Spillage from Aboveground Tanks. property or waterways is by means of drainage to a remote impound-
2-3.3.1 Facilities shall be provided so that any accidental discharge ing area, so that impounded liquid will n o t b e held against tanks,
of any Class I, II, or IIIA liquids will be prevented from endangering such systems shall comply with the following:
important facilities, and adjoining property, or reaching waterways, (a) A slope of not less than 1 percent away from the tank shall be
as provided for in 2-3.3.2 or 2-3.3.3. provided for at least 50 ft (15 m) toward the impounding area.
Exception No. 1: Tanks storing Class IIIB liquids do not require (b) The impounding area shall have a capacity not less than that of
special drainage or diking provisions for fire protection purposes. the largest tank that can drain into it. Where it is not possible
Exception No. 2: Protected aboveground storage tanks constructed because there is not enough open area around the tanks or it is
with integral secondary containment are not required to comply impractical to provide 100 percent capacity remote impounding, it
with this section when the space between the tank and the secondary shall be permitted to provide "partlal"remote impounding for some
containment is vented and visually or automatically monitored and percentage of the required capacity remote from any tank or
the tank is provided with an approved overfill prevention system. adjoining property. The required volume exceeding the capacity of
SUBSTANTIATION: These proposed revisions are intended to the partial remote impoundment shall be provided for by ddiking
provide requirements with NFPA 30 that recognize a'relatively new meeting the requirements of 2-3.3.3.
tank technology for the protection of aboveground storage tanks. (c) The route of the drainage system shall be so located that, if the
We have defined these tanks as protected aboveground storage liquids in the drainage systems are ignited, the fire will not seriously
tanks. It should be noted that work is presently underway with expose tanks or adjoining property.
several tank manufacturers and authorities having jurisdiction to (d) The confines of the impounding area shall be located so that,
develop performance criteria which can be used by nationally when filled to capacity, the liquid level will not be closer than 50 R
recognized testing laboratories for evaluating and listing protected (15 m) from any property line that is or can be built upon, or from
aboveground storage tanks. These tanks are not only designed to be any tank. Where "partial" remote impounding is used, the liquid
protected from exposure to a 2-hour flammable liquid pool fire but level in the partial impound shall meet the requirement of th|s
also to provide physical protection against bullet Penetration and section. The excess volume shall meet the requirements of
vehicle impact as well as secondary containment of the primary tank impounding by diking as provided or in 2-3.3.3. Tank spacing shall
contents. be determined as for tanks impounded in accordance with 2-$.3.3.
A key feature of these proposed revisions is that separate diking or SUBSTANTIATION: The current code contains two methods of
spill containment is not required for such tanks when they have ~iroviding impounding for tanks; either by remote impounding or by
integral secondary containment which is properly monitored for king. The code does not now contain a combination of these
leaks and an overfill protection system is provided to prevent methods so that the maximum benefits of each can be Utilized where
overfilling these tanks. space or practicality are limiting. This proposal will permit the user
It should be noted that these revisions are similar to provisions to take advantage of the benefit of remote impounding to reduce
already contained in Appendix II-F of the 1991 Uniform Fire Code risk of a spill and fire endangering other tanks since the first liquid
and the 1992 Accumulative Supplement to the 1990 BOCA National released will flow to this remote impounding. Most releases involve
Fire Prevention Code. only a small percentage of maxlmum capacity, thus such a combina-
It is the intent of the proposed requirements for protected tion of remote impounding and diking is much preferred to full
aboveground storage tanks to provide an aboveground tank diking around tanks. This proposal retains the requirement that 100
installation that is comparable in fire and life safety to the present percent of the capacity of the largest tank must be provided. Tank
requirements in NFPA 30 for aboveground tanks. spacing should be the same as for tanks impounded by diking since
COMMITrEE ACTION: Reject. Also, delete the definitions for spilled liquid may surround tanks should a spill exceed the capacity
~service station" that are currently in Section 1~2 of NFPA 30. of the partial remote impounding.
COMMITrEE STATEMENT: 1. The changes to the definitions of COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.
"licjuid" and ~automotive service station" do not provide any
enhancement and could cause confusion. The Committee has
deleted the definitions of "service stations" since these occupancies
are no longer in NFPA 30's scope.
2. The change to the definition of %econdary containment tank" (Log # 10)
unduly restricts the term to underground tanks. Aboveground tanks 30- 10 - (2-3.5.7 Exception (New)): Accept in Principle
are available that meet this definition. SUBMITrER: Michael T. Castellano, Distilled Spirits Council of the
3. The concept of "protected aboveground storage tank" conflicts U.S.
with the existing concept of "protected" tank as currently used in RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows:
Section 2-3 of NFPA 30. To adopt these proposed amendments will Exception: For areas where ethanol is exclusively stored, processed
cause immediate conflict and confusion. a n d / o r handled, the above factors can be reduced by fifty percent
4. Currently, there are no recognized fire test standards applicable (50%). Also, drainage is not required with water spray (automatic
to the design(s) addressed by this proposal. sprinkler) protection in order to obtain the credit. The minimum
factor after application of the fifty percent reduction shall be 0.15.

15
 N F P A 30 - - A93 T C R

SUBSTANTIATION: Background. Emergencyventingrequire- Test Results. The test results, measured in "BTU/hour," were
ments are based upon the following factors: compared to the theoretical numbers produced by applying the API
(a) the rate of heat transfer to the tank contents, heat input equations. The results were as follows:
(b) the time required to heat the contents to boil,
(c) the time required to heat unwetted portions of the tank shell Test QTest QAPI QTest/QAPI
or roof to a temperature where it will lose its strength, and
(d) the effects of drainage, insulation, and the application of water 1 2,620,000 4,703,480 0.56
in reducing fire exposure and heat transfer. 2 494,000 1,840,000 0.27
The only item that concerns itself with the heat source in a fire 3 1,038,000 1,840,000 0.56
situation involving flammable/combustible liquid tanks is the rate of 4 1,872,500 1,840,000 1.02
heat transfer, or heat input. The distilling industry has long been 5 875,000 1,840,000 0.47
concerned about the application of present heat transfer equations 6 14,456,000 4,703,480 3.06
to ethanol storage.
The current heat input equations for NFPA 30/API 2000 came Note: QTest and QAPI are in Btu's per hour.
from data developed during the Rubber Reserve Corporation and
the American Petroleum Institute full scale fire tests of 1944 and The free burn test for ethanol notes that heat input is fifty-six
1947 respectively. Both tests used water in the tanks to measure heat percent of the API model. The heat input was substantially reduced
input. The fuel for the heat source was gasoline for the Rubber even more with automatic sprinkler protection both above and
Reserve tests, and kerosene for the American Petroleum Institute. below the tank (to twenty-seven percent of the API model).
All tests were conducted outdoors. The results of these tests were Test Results. These test results highlight a substantial difference in
used to develop the heat input equations used for calculating the the fire exposure to a flammable/combustible liquid tank, depend-
required airflow rate through emergency vents. ing upon the liquid involved in the fire.
Distilled Spirits Industry Concerns. Concerns have been raised The recommendation for change identifies this difference for
regardingthe applicability of these equations to all flammable/ ethanol while also recognizing that drainage is not required to
combustible liquids. These concerns include: obtain credit for sprinkler protection.
1. the use of these equations for indoor tanks given that the Automatic sprinkler protection provided extremely effective fire
original tests were conducted outside, where wind effects could be suppression and heat input reduction during the tests.
significant. COMMrlTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle.
2. the application to all flammable/combustible liquids of heat 1. Add an Exception to subsection 2-3.5.7to read:
aut estimates based on a limited number o f tests with petrochemi- '~Exception:* Where water-miscible liquids whose heats of
products. combustion and rates of burning are equal to or less than those of
3. the effects of substituting automatic sprinkler protection for ethyl alcohol (ethanol) are stored, processed, or handled and where
directed water spray. there is no potential fire exposure from liquids other than these
Industry Fire Tests. Full scale fire tests were conducted by the liquids, the above factors shall be permitted to be reduced by 50
National Research Council of Ganada (NRC) for the Association of percent. Drainage shall not be required to obtain this reduction. In
Canadian Distillers and for the Distilled Spirits Council of the U.S. no case shall the above factors be reduced to less than 0.15."
The objective of these tests was to deternune the heat input rates 2. Add an Appendix item to Appendix A to read:
when using ethanol as the fuel for the heat source and to determine "A-2-3.5.7, E~/ception. Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) has a heat of
the effects of automatic sprinkler protection during this type of fire. combustion of 11,548 BTUs/Ib (26.8 millJoules per kg~ and a rate of
The test setup mimicked a typical tank arrangement at a distiller's burning of 0.000626 lbs/scl ft per second (0.015Kg/m sec). The
location, i.e., the tank is on legs, indoor, and under automatic burning rate was calculated based on pan pool fires of diameters
sprinkler protection. between 0.7 and 16.5 ft (0.2 to 5.0 m). The pool fires were burning
A 'Worst case scenario ~ was developed to provide conservative data at steady state in a wind-free environment. The ratio of the lip
for development of heat input models. This worst case involved a height of the pan (freeboard) to the diameter of the pan was
tank indoors, mounted on legs, and sitting in a pool fire. Obviously roximately 0.06. Details of these tests may be found in "Fire
a tank indoors negates the possibility of interference from wind ~pepsts of Distilled Spirit Storage Tanks," Client Report CR-5727.1, for
effects. A tank mounted on legs provides a significantly larger the Association of Canadian Distillers, National Research Council of
surface for direct flame impingement. A pool fire completely Canada, July 5, 1989."
engulfs the tank with flames allowing for a maximum amount of COMMITrEE STATEMENT: The revised language allows this
heat transfer. The 20 foot by 20 foot suspended ceiling located concept to be used for any water-miscible liquid that does not
approximately 20 feet below the test building's actual roof did not present a fire hazard worse than ethyl alcohol. The Appendix
provide sufficient area for the heat to "bank down" and soak the provides the appropriate background information.
sprinkler heads. Sprinkler heads actuated at an apparently slower
rate due to the high velocity heat striking the suspended ceiling on it
sway to the building's roof.
The tank was mounted in a 12 foot diameter metal pan to simulate
a lack of drainage, or pool fire. Automatic sprinkler protection was (Log # 3)
provided at the ceiling spaced on a ten foot by ten foot basis. A total 30-11 - (2-4.1.1): Accept in Principle
of four sprinkler heads mounted on a vertically movable, 20 foot by SLIB~: J. W.Juergens, Federated Insurance
20 foot suspended ceiling was provided. The vertical mobility RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
allowed the distance between the top of the tank and the sprinklers 1. Remove the "and" after the word "drainage" and insert a
to change from 5 feet to 15 feet. The tank was positioned directly comn'la.
under the center of the ceiling, and therefore the sprinkler heads. 2.,,Add the following wording after "2 hrs."
The sprinkler system was designed to provide a density of 0.30 gpm ... and of non-combustible construction."
per sq ft. The first sentence would then read "Storage tanks inside of
The following tests were conducted: buildings shall be permitted only in areas at or above grade that have
adequate drainage, are separated from other parts of the building by
Sprinklers construction having a fire resistance rating of at least two hours and
Test Type Heat Source Location Temperature rating are of non-combustible construction."
SUBSTANTIArION: To limit tank storage in buildings to buildings
1 free burn ethanol none n.a. of non-combustible construction.
2 protected ethanol ceiling @ 20 ft- 286 ° COMMITYEE AC'I'ION: Accept in Principle by means of Commit-
under tank - 165 ° tee proposed rewrite of Chapter 2 requirements for Tanks Inside
3 protected ethanol ceiling @ 20 ft 286 ° Buildings.
4 protected ethanol ceUin.,g @ 30 ft 286 ° COMMrlTEE STATEMENT: The submitter's concerns are
5 protected ethanol ceding @ 30 ft 165 ° addressed in Committee Proposal 30-13.
6 free burn hexane none n.a.

The test setup was fully instrumented with thermocouples and heat
flux meters. The tank was filled with water for both free burn tests (Log # 2)
(Nos. 1.and 6), and was at thirty percent, of cap!acity for the 30-12 - (2-4.1.2 (New)): Accept in Principle
remammg tests. The water was continuously s~rred to ensure SUB~: J. W. Juergens, Federated Insurance
uniform heating. The tank acted as a calorimeter. REC'~MMENDATION: Add a new section 2-4.1.2 as follows:
"Indoor storage of liquids in tanks shall be limited to the amounts
in table 2-4.1.2.

le
 NFPA 30 -- A93 TCR

Table 2-4.1.2 Indoor Tank Storage (gal) 30- 13 - (2-5): Accept

SUBMITrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
RECOMMENDATION: Revise Chapter 2 of NFPA 30 to incorporate
Protected Unprotected new requirements for storage tanks installed inside buildings by
replacing the existing Section 2-5, Installation of Tanks Inside
Class IA & IB 4,000 not permitted Buildings, with the following,.
Class IC 8,000 4,000 2-5 Storage Tank Buildings. Tank installations storing Class I, II,
Class II 20,000 10,000 and IliA liquids shall be permitted inside buildings when in
Class IliA 80,000 40,000 compliance with this section. Tanks located in enclosed pits shall
Class IIIB unlimited 100,000 comply with this Section. A t a n k installation that has a canopy or
roof that does not limit the dissipation of heat, dispersion o f
flammable vapors and restrict fire fighting access and control shall
be treated as an outside aboveground tank in accordance with
SUBSTANTIATION: To establish maximum limits on indoor tanks Section 2-$.
storage. There are limits on container and portable tank storage in 2-5.1 Location. Tanks and any associated equipment within the
Chapter 4, but no limits on larger tank storage. Previous editions storage tank building shall be so located that a fire in the area shall
have also been silent on this except old Chapter 6 which required not constitute an exposure hazard to adjoining buildings or tanks
Class I liquids to be outside or underground. for a period of time consistent with the response and suppression
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle by means of Commit- capabilities of the fire fighting operations available to the location.
tee proposed rewrite of Chapter 2 Requirements on Tanks Inside Compliance with 2-5.1.1 through 2-5.1.5 shall be deemed as meeting
Buildings. (Proposal 30-13) the requirements of 2-5.1.
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee feels that it would be 2-5.1.1 The minimum distance from exposed property lines and
impractical to establish storage limitations based on class of liquid. buildings for tank installations within structures having walls with a
fire-resistance rating of less than 2 hours shall be in accordance with
Table 2-5.1.1.
Exception: As modified by 2-5.1.2.

Table 2-5.1.1
Location of Storage Tank Buildings with Respect to Property Lines,
Public Ways, and the Nearest Impoltant Building
on the Same Property

Minimum Distance from Property Minimum Distance from Nearest

Line that is or Can Be Built Side of Any Public Way or
Upon, Including Opposite Side from Nearest Important
of Public Way (ft) Building on Same Property (ft)
Stable Liquid Unstable Liquid Stable Liquid Unstable Liquid

Emergency Emergency Emergency Emergency

Relief Relief Relief Relief

Largest Tank 2- Not Not Not Not

Operating Over Over Over Over Over Over Over Over
Liquid 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5
Capacity (gal) psig psig psig psig psig psig psig psig

lug, to 12,000 15 25 40 60 5 10 15 20
001 to 30,000 20 30 50 80 5 10 15 20
30,001 to 50,000 30 45 75 120 10 15 25 4O
50,001 to 100,000 50 75 125 200 15 25 40 00
~Double all distances shown if protection for exposures is not provided. Distances need not exceed 300 ft.
Capacity of any individual tank shall not exceed 100,000 gal without the approval of the authority having jurisdiction.
SI Equivalents: 1 gal = 3.8 L; 1 ft = 0.30 m; 1 prig = 6.9 kPa

2-5.1.2 Where a storage tank building has an exterior wall facing ft (7.6 m) or by a wall having a fire resistance rating of not less than
an exposure, the distances in Table 2-5.1.1 may be modified as 2 hours.
follows: 2-5.1.5 Each tank and storage tank building shall be accessible
(a) Where the wall is a blank wall having a fire-resistance rating of from at least two sides for fire fighting and fire control.
not less than 2 hours, separation distance between the storage tank 2-5.2 Construction.
building and its exposure need not be greater than 25 ft (7.6 m). 2-5.2.1 Storage tank buildings shall be constructed so as to
(b) Where a blank wall having a fire-resistance rating of not less maintain structural integrity for 2 hours under fire exposure
than 4 hours is provided, the distance requirements of Table 2-5.1.1 conditions and to provide adequate access and egress for
shall not apply. In addition, when Class IA or unstable liquids are unobstructed movement of all personnel and fire protection
stored, the exposing wall shall have explosion resistance in accor- equipment. Compliance with 2-5.2.2 through 2-5.2.8 shall be
dance with good engineering practice and adequate deflagration deemed as meeting the requirements of 2-5.2.1.
venting shall be provided in the non-exposing walls and roof. (See 2-5.2.2 Buildings or structures shall be of at least 2 hr fire-
NFPA 68, Guide for Venting of Deflagrations for information on resistance rating except that noncombustible or combustible
deflagration venting.) construction is permitted when protected by automatic sprinklers or
2-5.1.3 Other eqmpment associated with tanks, such as pumps, equivalent protection subject to the approval of the authority having
heaters, filters, exchangers, etc., shall not be located closer than 25 jurisdiction. (See NFPA 220, Standard on Types of Building
feet (7.6 m) to property lines where the adjoining property is or can Construction.)
be built upon or the nearest important building on the same 2-5.2.3 Class I liquids and Class II or Class IliA liquids heated above
property that is not an integral part of the storage tank building. their flash points shall not be stored in basements. Means shall be
Exception'. This spacing requirement. . shall not apply where provided to prevent liquid spills from running into basements.
exposures are protected as outlined m 2-5.1.2. Where Class I liquids are stored above grade within buildings with
2-5.1.4 Tanks in which unstable liquids are stored shall be basements or other below grade areas into which flammable vapors
separated from potential fire exposures by a clear space of at least 25 may travel, such below grade areas shall be provided with mechani-

17
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

cal ventilation designed to prevent the accumulation of flammable rovided or a vapor detection system shall be provided and set to
vapors. Enclosed storage tank pits shall not be considered base- v e a warning a/arm at 25 percent of the lower flammable limit and
ments. to start the mechanical ventilation system. The alarm shall sound at
2-5.2.4 Storage tanks shall be separated from other occupancies a constantly attended location.
within the building by construction having at least a 2 hr fire- 2-5.4 Drainage.
resistance rating. As a minimum, each opening shall be protected by 2-5.4.1 Drainage systems shall be designed to minimize fire
either a listed, self-closing fire door or a listed fire damper having a exposure to other tanks and adjacent properties or waterways. The
minimum 1 1/2 hour fire protection rating and installed in drained liquid shall be contained a n d b e capable of being removed
accordance with NFPA 80, Standard for Fire Doors and Windows, to a safe location. Compliance with 2-5.4.2 through 2-5.4.6 shall be
NFPA 90A, Standard for the Installation of Air Conditioning and deemed as meeting the requirements of 2-5.4.1.
Ventilating Systems, or NFPA 91, Standard for the Installation of 2-5.4.2 A facility shall be designed and operated to prevent the
Blower and Exhaust Systems for Dust, Stock, and Vapor Removal or normal discharge of flammable or combustible liquids to public
Conveying, whichever is applicable. Where Class I A o r unstable waterways, public sewers,, or adjoining, pro)p~erty.. . .
liquids are being stored, deflagration vents shall be provided to the 2-5.4.3 Except for drmns, sohd floors shall be hqmdtaght and the
exterior of the building and any walls separating this storage from room shall be iiquidtight where the walls join the floor and for at
other occupancies shall have explosion resistance in accordance with least 4 in. (10 cm) above the floor.
good engineering practice. Adequate deflagration venting shall be 2-5.4.4 Openings in interior walls to adjacent rooms or buildings
providedfor the nonexposing walls. (See NFPA 68, Guide for shall be provided with noncombustible, liquidtight raised sills or
Venting of Deflagrations, for information on deflagration venting.) ramps at least 4 in. (10 cm) in height or shall be otherwise designed
2-5.2.5 Provision for smoke and heat venting might be desirable to to prevent the flow of liquids to the adjoining areas. A permissible
assist access for fir~ fighting. NFPA 204M, Guide for Smoke and alternative to the sill or ramp is an open-grated trench (across the
Heat Venting, provides information on this subject. width of the opening inside of the room) that drains to a safe
2-5.2.6 Storage tank buildings shall have exit facilities arranged to location.
prevent occupmats from being trapped in the event of fire. NFPA 2-5.4.5 The primary containment area shall have a capacity not less
101, Code for Safety to Life from Fire in Buildings and Structures, than that of the largest tank that can drain into it. Emergency
provides information on the design of exit facilities. Exits shall not drainage systems shall be provided to direct flammable or combus-
be exposed by the drainage facilities described in 2-5.4. tible liquid leakage and fire protection water to a safe location. This
2-5.2.7 Access aisles of at least 3 ft (0.9 m) shall be maintained for might require curbs, scuppers, or special drainage systems to control
unobstructed movement of fire fighting personnel and fire the spreacl office (see 2-3.3). (Appendix A of Nb"PA 15, Standard for
protection equipment. Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection, provides information
2-5.2.8 Clearance between the top of the tank and the building on this subject.)
structure shall be a minimum of 3 feet (0.9 m) for buildings 2-5.4.6 Emergency drainage systems, if connected to public sewers
protected in accordance with 2-5.8.7.3. For buildings without fixed or discharged into public waterways, shall be equipped with traps or
fire suppression systems, space shall be provided to allow for the separators.
application of hose streams to the top of the tank(s) for cooling 2-5.5 Vents.
purposes. 2-5.5.1 Vents from tanks inside buildings shall be designed to
2-5.3 Ventilation. ensure that flammable vapors are not released inside the building.
2-5.3.1 Storage tank buildings storing Class I liquids or Class II or Compliance with 2-5.5.2 and 2-5.5.3 shall be deemed as meeting the
Class IIIA liquids at temperatures above their flash points shall be requirements of 2-5.5.1.
ventilated at a rate sufficient to maintain the concentration of vapors 2-5.5.2 Vents for tanks inside buildings shall be as required in 2-3.4
within the building at or below 25 percent of the lower flammable and 2-3.5, except that emergency venting by the use of weak roof-to-
limit Compliance with sections 2-5.3.2 through 2-5.3.5 shall be shell seam shall not be permitted. Automatic sprinkler systems
deemed as meeting the requirements of 2-5.3.1. designed in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 13, Standard
2-5.3.2 Ventilation requirements shall be confirmed by one of the for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems shall be accepted by the
following: authority having jurisdiction as equivalent to water spray systems for
(a) Calculations based on the antici ated fugitive emissions. (See purposes of calculating the required airflow rates for emergency
Appendix F for calculation methods.) p vents in 2-3.5.7, provided the density and coverage requirements of
(b) Sampling of the actual vapor concentration under normal NFPA 15, 4-4.4.2 are met. Vents shall terminate outside the
operating.conditions. The sampling, shall be conducted, a t a distance building.
of 5 ft radms from each potential vapor source extending to or 2-5.5.3 Vent piping shall be in accordance with 2-3.6.
toward the bottom and the top of the enclosed storage area. The 2-5.6 Tank Openings Other Than Vents.
vapor concentration used to determine the required ventilation rate 2-5.6.1 Tank openings other than vents from tanks inside buildings
shall be the highest measured concentration during the sampling shall be designed to ensure that flammable liquids or vapors are not
procedure. released inside the building. Compliance with 2-5.6.2 through
(c) An acceptable alternative is to provide ventilation at a rate of 2-5.6.9 shall be deemed as meeting the requirements of 2-5.6.1.
not less than ] cu ft per min per sq ft of solid floor area (0.3 m 3 per 2-5.6.2 All tank openings:
min per in2). (a) located at or below the maximum liquid level shall be liquid
NOTE: Equipment in enclosed storage areas may deteriorate over tight; and
time and periodic sampling should be conducted to assure that (b) located above the maximum liquid level shall be normally
leakage rates have not increased or that the ventilation rate is closed and shall be mechanically secured to prevent release of
adequate for any increase in leakage rates. vapors.
2-5.3.3 Ventilation shall be accomplished by natural or mechanical 2-5.6.3 Each connection through which liquid can gravity flow
ventilation, with discharge or exhaust to a safe location outside the from a tank inside a building shall be provided with an internal or
building, without recirculation of the exhaust air. an external valve located as close as practical to the shell of the tank.
Exception: Recirculation is permitted where it is monitored 2-5.6.4 Each liquid transfer connection on any tank storing Class I
continuously using a fail-safe system that is designed to automatically or Glass II liquids inside buildings shall be provided with:
sound an alarm, stop recirculation, and provide full exhaust to the (a) a normally closed remotely-activated valve; or
outside in the event that vapor-air mixtures having concentrations (b) an automatic-closing heat-activated valve; or
over 25 percent of having the lower flammable limit are detected. (c) another approved device.
2-5.3.4 Provision shall be made for introduction of make-up air in Exception: Connections used for emergency disposal or to provide
such a manner as to avoid short-circuiting the ventilation. Ventila- for clmck cutoff of flow in the event of fire in the vicinity of the tank
tion shall be arranged to include all floor areas or ~its where neect not meet this requirement.
flammable vapors may collect. Where natural ventilation is 2-5.6.4.1 The requirements of 2-5.6.4 shall be permitted to be met
inadequate, mechanical ventilation shall be provided and shall be by the valve required in 2-5.6.3. I f a separate valve is used, it shall be
kept in operation while flammable liquids are being handled. Local located adjacent to the valve required in 2-5.6.3.
or spot ventilation might be needed for the control of special fire or 2-5.6.5 Openings for manual gauging of Class I or Class II liquids,
health hazards. Such ventilation, if provided, shall be permitted to if independent of the fill pipe, shall be provided with a vapor tight
be used for up to 75 percent of the required ventilation. NFPA 91, cap or cover. Openings shall be kept closed when not in use. Each
Standard for the Installation of Blower and Exhaust Systems for such opening for any [iquid shall be protected against liquid
Dust, Stock, and Vapor Removal or Conveying, and NFPA 90A, overflow and possible vapor release by means of a spring-loaded
Standard for the Installation of Air Conditioning and Ventilating check valve or other approved device. Substioates for manual
Systems, provide information on this subject. gauging include, but are not limited to, heavy-duty flat gauge glasses,
2-5.3.5 For Storage tank buildings with the interior grade more magnetic, hydraulic, or hydrostatic remote reading devices, and
than 1 ft (30 cm) below the average exterior grade, continuous sealed float gauges.
mechanical ventilation in accordance with 2-5.3.2(c) shall be

18
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

2-5.6.6 Fill pipes that enter the top of a tank shall terminate within Table 2-5.7.3
6 in. (15 cm) of the bottom of the tank. Fill pipes shall be installed
or arranged so that vibration is minimized. Electrical Area Classifi cation
Exception: Fill pipes in tanks handling liquids that have a
minimum potential for the accumulation of static electricity or fill Location NEC Class I Extent of Classified Area
pipes in tanks whose vapor space, under normal operating condi- Division
tions, is not in the flammable range or is inerted need not meet this
requirement. (Examples include most crude oils, residual oils, Tank storage installation 1 All equipment located below
asphalts, and water-miscible liquids.) grade level.
2-5.6.7 The inlet of the fill pipe and the outlet of a vapor recovery 2 Any equipment located above
line for which connections are made and broken shall be located gradelevel.
outside of buildings at a location free from any source of ignition
and not less than 5 ft (1.5 m) away from any building opening. Such Tank openings installed in 1 Area within 5 ft of any tank
connections shall be closed tight and protected against tampering accordance with 2-5.5 & 2-5.6 opening, extending in all
when not in use and shall be identified. where flammable vapor-air directions.
2-5.6.8 Tanks storing Class I, Class II, or Class IliA liquids inside mixtures might exist under 2 Area between 5 ft and 8 ft of
buildings shall be equipped with a device, or other means shall be normal operation any tank opening, extending
provided, to prevent overflow into the building. Suitable devices in
include, but are not limited to, a float valve, a pre-set meter on the all directions. Also, area up
fill line, a low head pump incapable of producing overflow, or a to 3 ft above floor or grade
liquid-tight overflow pipe, at least one pipe size larger than the fill level within 5 ft to 25 ft
pipe, that discharges by gravity back to the outside source of liquid horizont~ly from any tank
or to an approved location.
opening.
2-5.6.9 Tank openings provided for purposes of vapor recovery
shall be protected against possible vapor release by means of a Vents extending to the 1 Within 3 ft o f o p e n e n d o f
spring-loaded check valve or dry-break connection or other vent,
approved device, unless the opening is pipe-connected to a vapor outside, discharging upward extending in all directions.
processingsystem. Openings designed for combined fill and vapor 2 Area between $ ft and 5 ft of
recovery shall also be protected against vapor release unless ~0edn end of vent, extending in
connection of the liquid delivery line to the fill pipe simultaneously irections.
connects the vapor recovery line. All connections shall be vapor
tight. Pumps, bleeders, withdrawal Within 5 ft of any edge of such
2-5.7 Electrical Equipment. fittings, meters, and similar devices, extending in all
2-5.7.1 This section shall apply to areas where Class I liquids are devices indoors directions. Also up to 3 ft
stored and to areas where Class II or Class IIIA liquids are stored at above floor or grade level
temperatures above their flash points (see 1-1.3). Any electrical within 25 ft horizontally fi'pm
equipment provided shall not constitute a source of ignition for the any edge of such devices.
flammable vapor that might be present under normal operations or
during a spill. Compliance with 2-5.7.2 through 2-5.7.6 shall be Sumps & drainage trenches
deemed as meeting the requirements of 2-5.7.1. Without mechanical 1 Entire area within pit, if any
2-5.7.2 All electrical equipment and wiring shall be of a type ventilation part is within a Division 1 or 2
specified by and installed in accordance with NFPA 70, National dassified area.
Electrical Code. With adequate mechanical 2 Entire area within pit, if any
2-5.7.3 So far as it applies, Table 2-5.7.3 shall be used to delineate ventilation part is within a Division 1 or 2
and classify areas for the purpose of installation of electrical classified area.
equipment under normalconditions. In the application of classified Containing valves, fittings, 2 Entire pit.
areas, a classified area shall not extend beyond a floor, wall, roof, or or piping and not within a
other solid partition that has no communicating openings. The Division 1 or 2 Classified area
designation of classes and divisions is defined in Chapter 5, Article
500, of NFPA 70, National Electrical Code. (See NFPA 497A,
Recommended Practice for Classification of Class I Hazardous 1
The release of Class I liquids can generate vapors to the extent that
(Classified) Locations for Electrical Installations in Chemical Process the entire building and, possibly, a zone surrounding it might have
Areas, and 497M, Manual for Classification of Gases, Vapors, and to be considered a Class L Division 2 location.
Dusts for Electrical Equipment in Hazardous (Classified) Locations,
forguidance.)
2-5-.7.4 The area classifications listed in Table 2-5.7.3 are based on
the premise that the installation meets the applicable requirements 2-5.8.1.2 The extent of fire prevention and control provided for
of this code in all respects. Should this not be the case, the authority the tank storage facility shall be determined by an engineering
having jurisdiction shall have the authority to classify the extent of evaluation of the operation, followed by the application of sound
the area. fire protection and process engineering prino'ples. The evaluation
2-5.7.5 Where the provisions of 2-5.7.2 through 2-5.7.4 require the shall include, but not be limited to:
installation of electrical equipment suitable for Class I, Division 1 or (a) analysis of fire and explosion hazards of the liquid operations;
Division 2 locations, ordinary electrical equipment, including (b) analysis of local conditions, such as exposure to and from
switchgear shall be permitted to be used if installed in a room or adjacent properties, flood potential, or earthquake potential;
enclosure that is maintained under positive pressure with respect to (c) fire department or mutual aid response.
the classified area. Ventilation make-up air shall not be contami- 2-5.8.2 Control of Ignition Sources.
nated. NFPA 498, Standard for Purgedand Pressurized Enclosures 2-5.8.2.1 Precautions shall be taken to prevent the ignition of
for Electrical Equipment, provides details for these types of flammable vapors. Sources of ignition include, but are not limited
installations. to:
2-5.8 Fire Prevention and Control. (a) open flames (g) spontaneous ignition
2-5.8.1 General. Storage tank buildings shall have fire prevention (b) lighming (h) frictional heat or sparks
control systems and methods, for life safety, for minimizing property (c) hot surfaces (i) static electricity
loss, and for reducing fire exposure to adjoining operations a n d (d) radiant heat (j) electrical sparks
property resulting from fire and explosion. Compliance with (e) smoking (k) stray currents
Sections 2-5.8.1.1 through 2-5.8.7.4 shall be deemed as meeting the (0 cutting and welding (!) ovens, furnaces, and heating
requirements of 2-5.8.1. equipment
2-5.8.1.1 This section covers the commonly recognized manage- 2-5.8.2.2 Smoking shall be permitted only in designated and
ment control systems and methods used to prevent or minimize the properly identified areas.
loss from fire or explosion in tank storage facilities. The wide range 2-5.8.2.3 Welding, cutting, and similar spark-producing operations
in size, design, and location of tank storage facilities precludes the shall not be permitted in areas containing flammable liquids until a
inclusion of detailed fire prevention and control systems and written permit authorizing such work has been issued. The permit
methods applicable to all such facilities. The authority having shall be issued by a person in authority following inspection of the
jurisdiction can be consulted on specific cases, where applicable; area to assure that proper precautions have been taken and will be
otherwise qualified engineeringjudgment shall be exercised in followed until the job is completed. (See NFPA 51B, Standard for
accordance with 2-5.8.1.2. Fire Prevention in Use of Gutting and Welding Processes).

19
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

2-5.8.2.4 Static Electricity. All equipment such as tanks, determined necessary, shall not be used for any purpose other than
machinery,and piping where an ignitable mixture might be present fire fighting or training.
shall be bonded or connected to a ground. The bond or ground or 2-5.8.7 Fixed Fire Control Equipment.
both shall be physically applied or shall be inherently present by the 2-5.8.7.1 A reliable water supply or other suitable fire control agent
nature of the installation. Electrically isolated sections of metallic shall be available in pressure andquantity to meet the fire demands
piping or equipment shall be bonded to the other portions of the indicated by special storage hazards or exposure as determined by
system or individually grounded to prevent hazardous accumulation 2-5.8.1.2.
of static electricity. (NFPA 77, Recommended Practice on Static 2-5.8.7.2 Hydrants, with or without fixed monitor nozzles, shall be
Electricity, provides information on this subject.) provided in accordance with accepted practice. The number and
2-5.8.3 Inspection and Maintenance. placement will depend on the hazard of the storage, or exposure, as
2-5.8.3.1 All fire protection equipment shall .be properly main- determined by 2-5.8.1.2. (See NFPA 24, Standard for the Installation
rained and periodic inspections and tests shall be done in accor- of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances, for
dance with both standard practice and equipment manufacturer's information on this subject.)
recommendations. 2-5.8.7.3 Where the need is indicated by the hazards of storage or
2-5.8.3.2 Maintenance and operating practices shall control exposure as determined by 2-5.8.1.2, fLxed protection shall be
leakage and prevent spillage of flammable liquids. required utilizing approved foam-water sprinkler systems, sprinkler
2-5.8.3.3 Combustible waste material and residues in operating systems, water spray systems, deluge systems, fire resistive materials,
areas shall be kept to a minimum, stored in covered metal contain- or a combination of these. (See NFPA 13, Standard for the
ers, and disposedof daily. Installation of Sprinkler Systems, NFPA 15, Standard for Water Spray
2-5.8.3.4 Storage of combustible materials and empty or full drums Fixed Systems, NFPA 16, Standard on Deluge Foam-Water Sprinkler
or barrels shall not be permitted within the storage tank building. and Standard for Mobile Foam Apparatus, for information on these
2-5.8.3.5 Ground areas around storage tank buildings shall be kept subjects.)
free of weeds, trash, or other unnecessary combustible materials. 2-~.8.7.4 If provided, fire control systems shall be designed,
2-5.8.3.6 Aisles established for movement of personnel shall be installed, and maintained in accordance with the following NFPA
maintained clear of obstructions to permit orderly evacuation and standards:
ready access for manual fire fighting activities. (a) NFPA 11, Standard for Low Expansion Foam and Combined
2-5.8.4 Emergency Planning and Training. A~bentSystems
2-5.8.4.1 An emergency action plan, consistent with the available ) NFPA 11A, Standard for Medium and High Expansion Foam
equipment and personnel, shall be established to respond to fire or Systems
other emergencies. This plan shall include the following: (c) NFPA 12, Standard on Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems
(a) Procedures to be used in case of fire, such as sounding the (d) NFPA 12A, Standard on Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishing
alarm, notifying the fire departlnent, evacuating personnel, and Systems
controlling and extinguishing the fire. (e) NFPA 12B, Standard on Halon 1211 Fire Extinguishing
(b) Appointment and training of persons to carry out fire safety Systems
duties. (f) NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
(c) Maintenance of fire protection equipment. NFPA 15, Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems
(d) Holding fire drills. I ~ NFPA 16, Standard on Deluge Foam-Water Sprinkler and
(e) Shutdown or isolation of equipment to reduce the escape of Foam-Water Spray Systems
liquid. (i) NFPA 16A, Standard on Closed Head Foam-Water Sprinkler
(f) Alternate measures for the safety of occupants while any fire (j) NFPA 17, Standard for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems.
protection equipment is shut down. SUBSTANTIATION: The Environment Protection Agency (EPA)
2-5.8.4.2 Personnel responsible for the use and operation of fire requirements for underground storage tanks (UST) due to leakage
protection equipment shall be trained in the use o f that equipment. problems have dramatically changed the nature of storage tank use
Refxesher training shall be conducted at least annually. in most areas and many industries. These changes in environmental
2-5.8.4.3 Planning of effective fire control measures shall be regulations have caused industries to look for alternatives to using
coordinated with local emergency response agencies. This shall underground storage tanks which are too difficult and too expensive
include, but not be limited, to the identification of all tanks by to check for leaks. Therefore, according to the Steel Tank Institute
location, contents, size, and hazard identification as required in %vhen talking about storage needs, specifiers and tank purchasers
2-8.2. are looking up as much as down, in as much as out." Many
2-5.8.4.4 Procedures shall be established to provide for safe industries are putting their previous underground storage tanks in
shutdown of operations under emergency conditions. Provisions buildings and in most instances greatly increasing the fire hazard.
shall be made for periodic training, inspection, and testing of Some are even installing canopies or roofs over existing
associated alarms, interlocks, and controls. aboveground tanks to control precipitation run-off from tank roofs
2-5.8.4.5 The emergency procedures shall be kept readily available which in some areas is considered hazardous waste. It was noted that
in an operating area and updated regularly. NFPA 30 prohibits inside tank storage.
2-5.8.4.6 Where premises are likely to be unattended for consider- To respond to these increased firehazards NFPA 30 formed a task
able periods of time, a summary of the emergency plan shall be force more than three years ago to address the problems. The task
posted or located in a strategic and accessible location. force visited several sites where tanks were being stored inside.
2-5.8.5 Detection and Alarm. Some of these locations gave us great concern for the potential
2-5.8.5.1 An approved means shall be provided to promptly notify consequences to both property and people ira fire should occur. It
those within the p l a n t a n d the available public or mutual aid fire was obvious that, because of a lack o f guidance in the fire codes,
department of fire or other emergency shall be provided. designs were being made with the main concern being environmen-
2-5.8.5.2 Those areas, including buildings, where a potential exists tal and little head was being paid to the firesafety needs. Some of
for a flammable liquid spill shall be monitored as appropriate. Such them were definite life safety risks.
methods include: This proposal has been written by the NFPA 30 Task Force on
(a) Personnel observation or patrol; Inside Storage Tanks and has been reviewed by the entire NFPA 30
(b) Monitoring equipment that indicates a spill or leak has Committee several times. We feel that it is essential that it be
occurred in an unattended area. presented to the public as soon as possible so that they might have
2-5.8.6 Portable Fire-Control Equipment. guidance in designing, building, andprotecting these tank
2-5.8.6.1 Listed portable fire extinguishers shall be provided for installations now. The next scheduledprinting for NFPA 30 in 1993.
facilities in such quantities, sizes, and types as might be needed for By that time, a great many of these installations will be designed and
dal storage hazards as determined in accordance with 2-5.8.1.3. built, and the loss of property and lives if one of these installations
A 10, Standard for Portable Extinguishers, provides information has a fire could be great.
on the suitability of various types of extinguisbers. In addition, many states nov~ consider any rainwater that has
2-5.8.6.2 When the need is indicated in accordance with 2-5.8.1.2, accumulated in an outside diked area to be a hazardous waste and
water shall be utilized through standpipe and hose systems (see must not be discharged to the environment or public sewer systems,
NFPA 14, Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose but must be collected and disposed of in a safe manner, i.e. as a
Systems), or through hose connections from sprinkler systems using hazardous waste. To relieve themselves of this costly burden, many
combination spray and straight stream nozzles to permit effective operators of small aboveground diked tank installations are
fire control (See NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler installing shed-type roofs over their installations or, in some cases,
Systems). enclosing their installations with walls and a roof, so that the tanks
2-5.8.6.3 When the need is indicated in accordance with 2-5.8.1.2, are now located in their own building.
mobile foam apparatus shall be provided. NFPA 110, Standard for The text here proposed provides reasonable fire-safety require-
Mobile Foam Apparatus, provides information on the subject. ments for these installations.
2-5.8.6.4 Automotive and trailer-mounted fire apparatus,where COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept.

20
 N F P A 30 m A 9 3 T C R

COMMrITEE STATEMENT: This proposal is an amended version 1. Piping passing through the walls of the pit shall be designed to
of Tentative Interim Amendment #356R. This TIA received the prevent excess stresses as a result of settlement or fire exposure.
unanimous affirmative vote of the Technical Committee on 2-6.5 Emergency Vents. Emergency venting for tanks in pits shall
Flammable and Combustible Liquids and the Correlating Commit- be as required in 2-3.5.7 except that factors for emergency venting
tee on Flammable Liquids. TheTIA was approved by the NFPA for draining are not permitted.
Standards Council. The amendments made to the original TIA text 2-6.6 Electrical Equipment All electrical equipment located in the
are the result of comments from Committee members and fi~om the Tank Storage Pit, including sump shall be ClassI, Division 1.
public, as a consequence of Public Review of the TIA. 2-8.7 Protection. Where determined by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction that there is a serious exposure to ad'acenttl
. property of
others, to a public right-of way(s) or to important buddings on the
same property automatic fLxed fire suppression systems that are
(Log # 12) capable of effecting extinguishment of the potential flammable
30-14- (2-5.3.3): Reject liquids shall be provided.
SUBMITrER: M.James Schaeffer, Control Instruments Corp. (a) NFPA 11, Standard for Low Expansion Foam and Combined
RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows: A~(ent Systems
after "are detected." "The sensor and the sample line must be b) NFPA 11A, Standard for Medium and High Expansion Foam
heated above the solvent flash p o i n t When mixtures are sampled Systems
with equipment that is colder than the original sample, if vapor (h) NFPA 16, Standard of Deluge Foam-Water Sprinkler and
condenses in the sampling line, the test sample will not y i e l d Foam-Water Spray Systems
accurate data. A flammable mixture sampled in this manner may (i) NFPA 16A, Standard on Closed Head Foam-Water Sprinkler
appear to be nonflammable and thus create a hazardous situation." Systems
SUBSTANTIATION: Vapor formed from a heated flammable (j) NFPA 17, Standard for Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems
liquid will condense and may form an explosive mist. A monitoring Renumber all remaining sections consecutively.
instrument will only measure the vapor in its detector; the mist could SUBSTANTIATION: The Environmental Protection Agency
be totally lost Bulletin HE-186 is marked in red to show the effect of (E.P.A.) requirements for Underground Storage Tanks (U.S.T.) due
dilution with air down to 40°C. The vapor present at 40°C is less to leakage problems have dramatically changed the nature of storage
than 1 mm or less than 10 percent (LFL) lower flammable limit with tank use in most areas and many industries. These changes in
a mixture of 100 percent LFL. environmental regulations have caused industries to look for
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. alternatives to using underground storage tanks which are too
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: This requirement is not appropriate difficult and too expensive to check for leaks. Therefore, according
for the Scope of NFPA 30. to the Steel Tank Institute ~when talking about storage needs,
specifiers and tank purchasers are looking up as much as down-in as
much as o u t " Many industries are putting their previous under-
ground storage tanks in buildings, open storage tank pits and
(Log # 70) enclosed storage tank pits. In most instances, the fire hazard has
30-15 - (2-6): Accept in Principle been greatly increased.
SUBMrrrER: GeraldJ. Rosicky, Industrial Fire Protection Section The concept of placing tanks in buildings and in enclosed storage
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new Section 2-6 as follows: tank pits has been addressed by the NFPA 30 "Inside Storage Tanks"
2-6 Storage Tank Pit. A Storage Tank Pit is an area where the tank Task Force. The Task Force submitted a second proposed Tentative
storage of Class I liquids, or Class II or III liquids heated above their Interim Amendment to NFPA 30 on December 11, 1991 via Mr.
flash points is contained by a dike over 6 ft high measured from the James D. Kieffer, Task Force Chairman, to provide direction for
interiorgrade and where the distance between any tank and the top these two concepts.
inside edge of the dike wall is less than the height of the dike wall. In addition, the Task Force also considered the concept of open
2-6.1 Scope. For tank storage pits all paragraphs of Section 2-3 storage tank pits. The Task Force felt that the submittal of this
shall apply except as modified in 2-6.2 through 2-6.7. information should be through the usual proposal system rather
Exception: Class IIIB liquids do not need to comply with this than the Tentative Interim Amendment process.
section. Definite guidance is needed for property owners, insurers and
2-6.2 Storage of combustible materials, empty or full drums, or authorities having jurisdiction relative to the additional hazards that
barrels shall not be permitted within the pit area. have been created. The guidance necessary to insure a reasonable
2-6.3 Ventilation. Mechanical ventilation shall be provided for the degree of fire protection is contained in the proposal.
drainage sump area sufficient to maintain the flammable vapors at COMM1TrEEACTION: Accept in Principle. Add a new 2-3.1 to
less than 25 percent of the L.F.L. (as per 2-5.3) when Class l liquids, read:
or Class II or Class III liquids at temperatures above their flash ~Fhis section shall include installations in which tanks are above, at,
points are stored. or below grade and are without backfill."
2-6.4 Spill Control for Tank Storage Pits. Renumber all subsequent subsections.
2-6.4.1 When protection of adjoining property or waterways is by COMM1TrEE STATEMENT: The proposed new 2-3.1 accomplishes
means of containment within storage pits, such system shall comply all of the objectives of the submitter except for the ventilation
with the following: requirements noted in the submitter's 2-6.3. However, the Commit-
(a) The volumetric capacity of the storage pit shall not be less tee feels that there is no evidence of the need for ventilation in the
than the greatest amount of liquid that can be released from the typical installation.
largest tank within the pit area, assuming a full tank. To allow for
the volume occupied by tanks, the capadty of the pit area enclosing
more than one tank shall be calculated after deducting the volume
of the tanks, other than the largest tank. (Log# 11)
(b) To permit access for fire fighting the pit shall be located no 30-16 - (3-4.1): Reject
closer than 10 ft (3 m) to any property line that is or can be built SUBMITrER: Joseph G. Radzik, Victualic Co. of America
u on. RECOMMENDATION: Add "grooved" to first sentence as follows:
l~c) Each Tank Storage Pit shall have liquid tight walls and floor Joints shall be made liquid-tight and shall be either welded,
designed to withstand a full hydrostatic head. Drainage for spillage, flanged, grooved, or threaded,..."
leak control, precipitation collection and possible fire protection SUBSTANTIATION: Tests performed by an Independent
water shall be provided as follows: Laboratory confirms the suitability of grooved products under fire
1. The floor shall be sloped not less than 1.0 percent to a conditions.
drainage system that terminates in a below floor sump. NOTE: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA
2. Each pit area containing two or more tanks shall be subdivided, Headquarters.
by drainage channels or curbs between each tank to prevent spills COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
from endangering adjacent tanks within the pit area. COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee feels that the tests
3. Remotely controlled means shall be provided for transfer of cited do not demonstrate that the piping will stay intact during a
liquids collected in the sump to a waste collection tank(s), to a waste high challenge fire. Also, the Committee feels that testing should be
treatment system or to an otherwise safe location. conducted in accordance with the UL 1709 tests.
(d) Provisions shall be made for safe egress from the pit and
normal operation of and emergency access to valves, and tank
roof(s) without entering below the top of the pit. These provisions
may be met through the use of remote-operated valves, elevated
walkways, or similar arrangements.

21
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

(Log # 15) C o m m i t t e e f u r t h e r feels that m a n d a t o r y use o f such valves is n o t a

30- 17 - (3-7): Reject p a n a c e a for t h e following reasons:
SUBMrITER: J a m e s L. Kolstad, National Transportation Safety 1. T h e y m u s t be properly m a i n t a i n e d to e n s u r e operation. By their
Board nature, these valves are difficult to maintain.
RECOMMENDATION: Revise Section 3-7 to require internal safety 2. T h e y m i g h t prevent or interfere with the transfer o f fuel from
valves a n d fail-safe control valves o n all a b o v e g r o u n d fuel storage fire-exposed tanks to uninvolved tanks.
tanks.
SUBSTANTIATION: A b o u t 0915 m o u n t a i n s t a n d a r d time, on
Sunday, N o v e m b e r 25, 1990, a fire e r u p t e d at a fuel storage a n d
dispensing facility a b o u t 1.8 miles f r o m t h e main terminal o f (Log # 45)
Stapleton International Airport at Denver, Colorado. T h e facility, 30-18 - (Chapter 4): Accept
referred to as a fuel farm, was owned by U n i t e d Airlines a n d S U B ~ : RussellJ. Kerlin
Continental Airlines. U n i t e d Airlines' portion of t h e fuel f a r m was RECOMMENDATION: 1. Reorganize Chapter 4.
operated a n d m a i n t a i n e d by a n i n d e p e n d e n t contractor, AMR 2. Reorganize a n d r e n u m b e r c o r r e s p o n d i n g a p p e n d i x sections as
Combs. F r o m t h e time fire fighting efforts were initiated i m m e d i - appropriate.
ately after t h e fire e r u p t e d until t h e fire was extinguished, a total o f 3. Place cross-reference tables in a p p e n d i x o f Code. (NOTE: T h e
634 fire fighters, 47 fire units, a n d 4 contract p e r s o n n e l e x p e n d e d 56 cross-references are for review purposes only a n d n e e d n o t be
million gallons o f water a n d 28,000 gallons of f o a m concentrate. included in Code.)
T h e fire b u r n e d for a b o u t 48 hours. O f t h e 5,185,000 gallons o f fuel
stored in tanks at t h e f a r m before t h e fire, a b o u t 3 milho" n gallons Cross-Reference: New Sections to Previous Sections
were either c o n s u m e d by t h e fire or lost as a result o f leakage f r o m
t h e tanks. Total d a m a g e was estimated by U n i t e d Airlines to have Proposed
been between $15 a n d $20 million. No injuries or fatalities occurred
as a result o f t h e fire. 1993 199__.~0
U n i t e d Airlines' flight operations were d i s r u p t e d because o f t h e
lack of fuel to prepare aircraft for flight. Airport facilities, o t h e r 4-4 ......................................................................................... 4-4, 4-5.7
t h a n t h e fuel farm, were n o t affected by t h e fire. T h e duration a n d 44.1 ............................................................................. 4-4.1, new text
intensity o f t h e fire, however, raised concerns a b o u t t h e ability o f 4 4 . 2 ............................................................................... new h e a d i n g
airport a n d local fire fighters to r e s p o n d to a fuel fire o f this 44.2.1 .......................................................................... 4-4.1.1, 4-4.2._
m a g n i t u d e . T h e origin o f t h e fire also raised concerns a b o u t t h e Table 4-4.2.1 ................................................. 4-4.1.4, 4-4.2.2, 4-4.2.3,
safety oversight a n d inspection o f fuel f a r m p u m p i n g operations. ......................................................................... 4-4.2.6, 4-5.7.1,4-5.7.2,
An analysis o f t h e design a n d cost benefits of various safety features .................................................................................................... 4-5.7.3
o f t h e Denver fuel f a r m or t h e new fuel storage facility at t h e new 44.2.2 ....................................................... 44.1.2(a), 4-4.2.2, 44.2.4,
Denver airport was b e y o n d t h e scope o f t h e Safety Board's investiga- ......................................................................... 4-5.7.1, 4-5.7.2, 4-5.7.3,
tive role. However, obvious safety deficiencies were n o t e d d u r i n g .................................................................................. 4.5.7.4(a), 4-5.7.5
t h e investigation that are n o t addressed in existing industry codes or Table 4-4.2.2 ............................................. 44.1.2(a), 44.2.2, 4-4.2.4,
standards. ......................................................................... 4-5.7.1,4-5.7.2, 4-5.7.3,
T h e r e were eight fuel storage tanks in the area of t h e fuel farm ............................................................................................... 4-5.7.4(a)
where the fire occurred. T a n k capacities r a n g e d from 420,000 4-4.2.3 ..................................................................... 4-5.7.1, 4-5.7.4(a)
gallons to 2,100,000 gallons. T a n k s 3 a n d 4 were completely 4-4.2.4 ....................................................................................... 4-4.2.1
destroyed by the fire; tanks 2, 5, 8, a n d 10 received extensive 44.2.5 ........................................................................ 4-4.2.1, 44.2.11
damage; a n d tank 1 received s m o k e damage. 4-4.2.6 .......................................................................... 4-4.1.1, 4-4.2.3
T h e investigation revealed t h a t only tank 10 h a d an internal fire 44.2.7 ............................................................... 4-4.1.2(b), 4-5.7.4(b)
valve with external fusible links that would automatically close when 44.2.8 ........................................................................ 4-4.2.5, 4-5.7.14
e x p o s e d to heat f r o m a fire. Further, only the control valves o n t h e 4-4.2.9 ....................................................................................... 4-4.1.5
piping to tanks 2 a n d 5 were fall-safe-that is, they were designed to 4-4.2.10 ................................................................................... 4-4.2.11
automatically close if either electrical power or air pressure was lost 44.2.11 ...................................................................... 44.1.6,4-4.2.11
T h e control valves installed o n tanks 1, 3, a n d 4, were n o t fail-safe; 4-4.2.12 ................................................................................... 4-4.2.11
air pressure h a d to r e m a i n o n the valves' control system for t h e 4-4.3 ............................................................................... n e w headin~
valves to close automatically in t h e e v e n t o f an electrical power 4-4.3.1 ........................................................................ 4-5.1.1, 4-5.7.1_~5
failure. If t h e air pressure was lost, the valves h a d to be closed 44.3.2 .......................................................................... 44.1.3, 44.2.9
manually. However, because o f t h e intensity o f t h e fire at tanks 3 4-4.3.3 ..................................................................................... 4-5.7.12
a n d 4, fire fighters were u n a b l e to m a n u a l l y close t h e valves to these 44.3.4 ..................................................................................... 4-5.7.12
tanks. T h e Safety B o a r d concludes t h a t h a d tanks 3 a n d 4 b e e n 44.3.5 ........................................................... 4-4.1.9, 44.2.12, 4-5.7.7
e q u i p p e d with fall-safe control valves a n d internal fire valves with 4-4.3.6 ............................................................................. 4-5.7.8, 4-6.4
fusible links, t h e a m o u n t o f fuel that fed t h e fire would have b e e n 44.3.7 ....................................................................................... 4-5.7.9
significantly reduced, a n d consequently, t h e duration a n d intensity 4-4.3.8 ..................................................................................... 4-5.7.10
o f t h e fire lessened. T h e lack o f such valves, therefore, contributed 44.3.9 ..................................................................................... 4-5.7.11
to the severity o f this fire. T h e Safety B o a r d believes that all above- 4 4 . 4 ............................................................................... n e w h e a d i n g
g r o u n d fuel storage tanks s h o u l d be e q u i p p e d with internal fire 44.4.1 ............................................................ 4-4.2.7, 44.2.8, 4-5.7.6,
valves a n d that all control valves on above-ground fuel storage tanks .......................................................................................... 4-6.1,4-6.1.1
should be fail-safe. Consequently, t h e Safety Board has u r g e d the Table 44.4.1 (a) ............................................................. Table 4-4.2.7
Federal Aviation Administration to require that all tanks at fuel Table 44.4.1(b) .......................................................... Table 4-6.1(a)
storage facilities on airport property be e q u i p p e d with an internal Table 44.4.1(c) .......................................................... Table 4.6.1(b)
fire valve a n d fail-safe control valves. Further, t h e Safety Board 44.4.2 .......................................................................... 4-4.1.4, 44.1.7
believes that t h e National Fire Protection Association S t a n d a r d 30 Table 44.4.2 ............................................................... 44.1.4, 44.1.7
should require t h a t internal fire valves a n d fall-safe control valves be 44.4.3 ....................................................................................... 4-5.7.6
installed o n all above-ground fuel storage tanks. 44.4.4 ...................................................................... 4-4.2.10, 4-5.7.13
Also, as a result o f t h e investigation, t h e Safety b o a r d issued 4-4.5 ............................................................................... n e w h e a d i n g
r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s to the Federal Aviation Administration, AMR 4-4.5.1 ..................................................................................... 4-4.2.L'f
Combs, t h e Airport Operators Council International, Inc., a n d t h e 4--4.5.2 .......................................................................................... 4-7.3
American Association of Airport Executives. 4-4.5.3 ........................................................... 44.1.8, 4.-4.2.1, 44.2.11
T h e National Transportation Safety board is an i n d e p e n d e n t 4-5 ................................................................................................... 4-5
Federal agency with t h e statutory responsibility "...to p r o m o t e 4-5.1 ............................................................................................. 4-5.1
transportation safety by c o n d u c t i n g i n d e p e n d e n t accident investiga- 4-5.1.1 ....................................................................................... 4-5.1.2
tions a n d by f o r m u l a t i n g safety i m p r o v e m e n t r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s " 4-5.1.2 ....................................................................................... 4-5.1.1
(Public Law 93-633). T h e Safety Board is vitally interested in any 4-5.1.3 ....................................................................................... 4-5.1.3
actions taken as a result o f its safety r e c o m m e n d a t i o n s . 4-5.1.4 ....................................................................................... 4-5.1.4
COMMrrrEE ACTION: Reiect. 4-5.2 ............................................................................................. 4-5.6
COMMITYEE STATEMENt: T h e C o m m i t t e e agrees with the 4-5.2.1 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.1
submitter's intent, i.e. to limit the quantity o f fuel contributing to a 4-5.2.2 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.2
fire. T h e C o m m i t t e e points o u t that NFPA 30 does n o t preclude the 4-5.2.3 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.3
use of such valves in a properly e n g i n e e r e d system. However, t h e 4-5.2.4 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.4
C o m m i t t e e also feels that m a n d a t i n g such valves in all cases will 4-5.2.5 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.6
disallow o t h e r m e t h o d s of control that are equally effective. T h e 4-5.2.6 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.5

22
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

4-5.2.7 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.8

4-5.2.8 ....................................................................................... 4-5.6.7
4-5.2.9 .......................................................................... 4-5.0.7, 4-5.6.8 Table 4-4.2.1
4-5.2.10 ........................................................................................ 4-7.3 [44.1.4, 44.2.2, 44.2.3, 4-4.2.6, 4-5.7.1, 4-5.7.2, 4-5.7.3]
4-5.3 ............................................................................................. 4-5.2
4-5.4 ............................................................................................. 4-5.3
4-5.5 ............................................................................................. 4-5.4 Fire Resistance Rating (hrs.)
4-5.5.1 .......................................................................................... 4-5.4 Type o f Storage Area Interipr Ceilings & Exterior
4-5.5.2 ...................................................................................... 4-5.4.1 walls I Floors Walls
4-5.5.3 ....................................................................................... 4-5.4.2
4-5.5.4 ....................................................................................... 4-5.4.3 Inside Storage Rooms:
4-5.5.5 ....................................................................................... 4-5.4.'4
4-5.6 ............................................................................................. 4-5.5 - Floor area <150 sq ft 1 1
4-5.6.1 ....................................................................................... 4-5.5.1 - floor area >150 and ~500 sq ft 2 2
4-5.6.2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5.5.2
4-6.6.3 ....................................................................................... 4-5.5.3 Cutoff Rooms & Attached Buildings:
4-5.0.4 ....................................................................................... 4-5.5.4
4-5.6.5 ....................................................................................... 4-5.5.5 - Floor area <300 sq ft 1 12
4-5.6.5 ....................................................................................... 4-5.5.6 Floor area >300 sq fi 2 22 23
4-0 ................................................................................................... 4-9
4-0.1 ............................................................................................. 4-4.1 4 5 6
Liquid Warehouses 4 2 or 4
4-6.2 ............................................................................................. 4-9.1
4-6.3 - 4-6.4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-9.2 - 4-9.3
4-7 (all) .................................................................................. 4-8 (all) 2
SI Units: 1 sq ft = 0.09m
4-8 ........................................................................................... 4-6, 407
4-8.1 ............................................................................................. New 1
Between storage area and o t h e r adjacent rooms a n d buildings not
4-8.2 ................................................................................ 4-4.1.1, 4-6.2 d~dicated for liquid storage.
4..8.2.1 ....................................................................................... 4-6.9.1 Roofs of attached buildings, one story in height, may he light-
4-8.2.2 ....................................................................................... 4-4.4.1 weight, noncombustible construction if the separating interior walls
4-8.2.3 .......................................................................................... 4-6.5 hsve minimum 3 ft (0.90-m) parapets.
4-.8.3 ............................................................................................. 4-6.3 Where other portions o f buildings or o t h e r properties are
4-8.4 ............................................................................................. 4-7.1 e~posed.
4-8.4.1 ........................................................................................ 4-7.11 5This shall be a standard fire wall.
4-8.4.2 ....................................................................................... 4-7.1.2 For exposing walls which are located more than 10 ft (3 m) but
4-8.5 .......................................................................................... 4-7.1.3 less than 50 ft (15 m) from an important building or line o f
4-8.6 .......................................................................................... 4-7.1.4 a~joining property that can be built upon.
4-8.7 ....................................................... ...................................... 4-7.2 For exposing walls which are located 10 ft (3 m) or less from an
4-8.8 ............................................................................................. 4-7.4 important building or line o f adjoining property that can be built
4-8.9 ............................................................................................. 4-7.5 upon.
NOTE: In the following text, the 1990 edition paragraph numbers
are given in brackets thus: { }

Chapter 4 Container and Portable Tank Storage

4-1 Scope. [No change]
4-2 Design, Construction, and Capacity of Containers. [No
change]
4-3 Design, Construction, and Capacity of Storage Cabinets. [No Table 4-4.2.2
change] [4-4.1.2(a), 4-4.2.2, 4-4.2.4, 4-5.7.1,4-5.7.2, 4-5.7.3, 4-5.7.4(a)]
4-4 Design, Construction, a n d Operation of Separate Inside Liquid
Storage Areas and Liquid Warehouse. (See Section 1-2, ~Defini-
tions. ) (For additional information, see Appendix D.) {4-4, 4-5.7[ Fire Resistance Rating (hrs.)
4-4.1 Scope. Section 4-4 applies to inside areas where the primary 1
function is the storage o f liquids (see Section 4-5 for storage o f Wall Door
liquids in o t h e r inside areas). This shall include hazardous material
storage lockers that are used as inside storage areas. {4-4.1} 1 1 1/2
4-4.2 Design and Construction Requirements. 2 1 12'2
4-4.2.1 All storage areas shall be constructed to m e e t the specified 4
fire-resistance ratings in Table 4-4.2.1. Such construction shall
comply with the test specifications given in NFPA 251, Standard
Methods o f Fire Tests o f Building Construction and Materials. 1
{4-4.1.1, 4-4.2.3} 2As required by Table 4-2.2.1.
Exception: This shall not apply to liquid warehouse. O n e fire d o o r required on each side o f interior openings for
4-4.2.2 Openings in interior walls to adjacent rooms o r buildings attached liquid warehouses; see 4-4.2.3.
and openings in exterior walls with fire resistance ratings shall be
provided with normally dosed, listed fire doors with fire-resistance
ratings corresponding to the fire resistance rating o f the wall as
specified in Table 44.2.2. Such doors may be arranged to stay open
during material handling operations if the doors are designed to
close automatically in a fire emergency by provision o f listed closure explosion-venting features, such as lightweight wall assemblies,
devices. Fire doors shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 80, lightweight roof assemblies, r o o f hatches, or windows of the
Standard for Fire Doors and Windows. {4-4.1.2(a), 4-4.2.2, 4-4.2.4, explosion-venting type. (NFPA 68, Guide for Venting o f Deflagra-
4-5.7.1,4-5.7.2, 4-5.7.3, 4-5.7.4(a), 4-5.7.5} tions, provides information on this subject.) {4-4.2.1, 4-4.2.11}
4-4.2.3 Communicating openings in fire walls separating liquid Exception: This does not apply to inside rooms.
warehouses from adjacent building areas shall be p r o t e c t e d by 3-hr 4-4.2.6 Except for drains, floors shall be iiquidtight, and the
fire doors on each side o f the wall. {4-5.7.1, 4-5.7.4(a)} storage area shall he liquidtight where the interior walls join the
4-4.2.4 Construction design o f exterior walls shall provide ready floor. {4-4.1.1,4-4.2.3}
accessibility for fire fighting operations t h r o u g h provision of access 4-4.2.7 Openings in interior walls to adjacent rooms o r buildings
openings, windows, o r lightwelg " ht noncombustible wall panels. shall be provided with noncombustible, liquidtight raised sills or
{4-4.2.1} ramps at least 4 in. (10 cm) in height or shall be otherwise designed
Exception: This shall not apply to inside rooms a n d liquid to prevent the flow o f liquids to the adjoining areas. A permissible
warehouse. alternative to the sill or ramp is an open-grated trench, which drains
4-4.2.5 Where Class IA or IB liquids are dispensed, o r where Class to a safe location, across the width o f the o p e n i n g inside of room.
IA liquids are stored in containers larger than one gallon, the {4-4.1.2(b), 4-5.7.4(b)}
exterior wall or r o o f construction shall be d e s i g n e d to include

23
 N T P A 30 m A93 T C R

Exception: This does not apply to cut-off rooms and attached Storage of Materials, may be stored in the liquid storage area if the
buildings. ordinary combustibles, other than those used for packaging the
4-4.2.8 Curbs, scuppers, special drains, or other suitable means liquids, are separated a minimum of 8 ft (2.4 m) horizontally, by
shall be provided to prevent the flow of liquids under emergency aisles or open racks, from the liquids in storage. {4-5.7.8, 4-6.4}
conditions throughout the building and into adjacent building Exception: Combustible commodities shall not be allowed in
areas. The drainage system, if used, shall have sufficient capacity to liquid warehouses except in limited quantities and only if protection
carry off expected discharge of water from fire protection systems is provided in accordance with Section 4-8.
and hose streams. {4-4.2.5, 4-5.7.14} 4-4.3.7 Empty or idle combustible pallet storage in liquid ware-
Exception No. 1: This does not apply to inside rooms. houses shall b e limited to a maximum pile size of 2500 sq ft (232
Exception No. 2: This does not apply to cut-off rooms and attached m2) and to a maximum storage h e i l ~ t of 6 tt (1.8 m). Idle pallet
buildings where individual container capacity is 5 gal (18.9 L) or less storage shall be separated from liqmds by at least 8-ft (2.4-m) wide
or where only Class Ill liquids are stored. aisles. However, pallet storage in accordance with NFPA 23t,
Exception No. 3: Prevention of liquid flow throughout the Standard for General Storage, shall be acceptable. {4-5.7.9}
building or room is not required for liquid warehouses without 4-4.3.8 Containers in piles shall be stackedin such manner as to
automatic sprinkler protection, existing liquid warehouses with
automatic sprinkler protection, cut-off rooms, or attached buildings. [~rovide stability and to prevent excessive stress on container walls.
ortable tanks stored over one tier high shall be designed to nest
4-4.2.9 Electrical Wiring and equipment located in liquid storage securely, without dunnage. (See NFPA 386, Standard for Portable
areas less than 500 sq ft in size and used for Class I liquids shall be Shipping Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids, for
suitable for Class I, Division 2 dassified locations; for Class II and information on portable tank design.) Materials handling equip-
Class Ill liquids, shall be suitable for general use. (NFPA 70, ment shall be suitable to handle containers and tanks safely at the
National Electrical Code, provides information on the design and upper tier level. {4-5.7.10}
installation of electrical equipment.) {4-4.1.5} ]24.3.9 No container or portable tank in a liquid warehouse shall
4-4.2.10 In cut-offrooms and attached buildings areas where be stored closer than 36 in. (0.90 m) to the nearest beam, chord,
dispensing of Glass I liquids is permitted and conducted, electrical rder, or other roof member in an unprotected warehouse.
systems shall comply with 4-4.2.9, except that within 3 ft (0.90 m) of 5.7.11}
a dispensing nozzle area, the electrical system shall be suitable for 4-4.4 Allowable Quantities and Storage Heights.
Glass I, Division 1. {44.2.11} 4-4.4.1 Except asprovided in sections 4-4.4.2 through 4-4.4.4,
4-4.2.11 Every inside room shall be provided with either a gyavity storage of liquids shall comply with Table 4-4.4.1 (a) for unprotected
or a continuous mechanical exhaust ventilation system. Me~.hanical storage andTables 4-4.4.1(b) and 4-4.4.1 (c) for protected storage.
ventilation shall be used if Class I liquids are dispensed within the Where the storage of liquids is protected, the protection shall be in
room. {44.1.6, 44.2.11} accordance with Section 4-8. {4-4.2.7, 4-4.2.8, 4-5.7.6, 4-6.1, 4-6.1.1}
(a) Exhaust air shall be taken from a point near a wall on one side Exception: Other quantities and arrangements may be used where
of the room and within 12 in. (30 cm) of the floor with one or more suitably protected and approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
make-up inlets located on the opposite side of the room within 12 Table 4-4.4.1(a) {Same as existing Table 4-4.2.7}
in. (30 cm) of the floor. The location of both the exhaust and inlet Table 4-4.4.1 (b) {Same as existing Table 4-6.1 (a) }
air openings shall be arranged to provide, as far as practicable, air Table 4-4.4.1(c) {Same as existing Table 4-6.1 (b) }
movement across all portions of the floor to prevent accumulation of 4-4.4.2 Storage in inside rooms shall comply with the limits
flammable vapors. Exhaust from the room shall be directly to the specified in Table 4-4.4.2. In addition, containers over 30 gal (113.5
exterior of the building without recirculation. L) capacity containing Class I or Glass II liquids shall not be stored
Exception: Recirculation is permitted where it is monitored more than one container high in inside rooms. {4-4.1.4, 4-4.1.7}
continuously using a fail-safe system that is designed to automatically
sound an alarm, stop recirculation, and provide full exhaust to the
outside in the event that vapor-air mixtures in concentrations over
25 percent of the lower flammable limit are detected.
If ducts are used, they shall not be used for any other purpose and Table 4-4.4.2
shall comply with NFPA 91, Standard for the Installation of Blower
and Exhaust Systems for Dust, Stock, and Vapor Removal or Total Floor Area Automatic Fire 1 Total Allowable Quantity
Conveying. If make-up air to a mechanical system is taken from (sq ft) Protection Provided? (gal) per sq ft Floor Area
within the building, the opening shall be equipped with a fire door
or damper, as required in NFPA 91. For gravity systems, the make-up <150 No 2
air shall be supplied from outside the building. Yes 5
(b) Mechanical ventilation systems shall provide at least o n , c u b i c
foot per minute of exhaust per square foot of floor area (I m per >150 and <500 No 42
m i n p e r 3 m2), but not less than 150 cfm (4 m 3 per rain). The Yes 10
mechanical ventilation system for dispensing areas shall be equipped
with an airflow switch or other equally reliable method that is
interlocked to sound an audible alarm upon failure of the ventila-
tion system. SI Units: 1 sq it = 0.09 m2; 1 gai = $.8 L
4-4.2.12 In cut-offrooms and attached buildings where dispensing 1
of Class I liquids is permitted and conducted, ventilation shall be Fire protection system shall be sprinkler, water spray, carbon
provided per 4-4.2.11. {4-4.2.11} d~xide, dry chemical, halon, or other approved system. (See 4-8.)
4-4.3 General Storage Requirements. Total allowable quantities of Class IA and IB liquids shall not
4-4.3.1 The storage of any liquids shall not physically obstruct exceed that permitted in Table 4-4.4.1 (a) and the provisions of 4-
means of egress. {4-5.1.1, 4-5.7.12} 4.4.4.
4-4.3.2 Wood at least 1 in. (2.5 can) nominal thickness may be used
for shelving, racks, dunnage, scuRboards, floor overlay, and similar
installations. {4-4.1.3, 44.2.9}
Exception: This does not apply to liquid warehouses. 4-4.4.3 The total quantity of liquids stored in a liquid warehouse
4-4-3.3 Where storage on racks exists in liquid warehouses as shall not be restricted. However, the storage heights and maximum
permitted in this code, a minimum 4-ft (1.2-m) wide aisle shall be quantity per pile shall comply with Tables 4-4.4.1 (a), (b) and (c),
provided between adjacent rows of racks and any adjacent storage of whichever is applicable. {4-5.7.6}
liquids. Main aisles shall be a minimum of 8 ft (2.4 m) wide. Exception: An unprotected liquid warehouse located a minimum
{4~.7.12} of 100 ft (30 m) from exposed buildings or adjoining property that
4-4.3.4 Solid pile and palletized storage in liquid warehouses shall can be built upon is not required to conform to Table 4-4.4.1 (a), if
be arranged so that piles are separated from each other by at least 4 there is protection for exposures. Where protection for exposures is
ft (1.2 m). Aisles shall be provided so that no container or tank is not provided, a minimum 200 ft (61 m) distance is required.
more than 12 it (3.6 m) from an aisle. {4-5.7.12} 4-4.4.4 Where two or more classes of liquids are stored in a single
Exception: Aisle space can be reduced to 3 ft in inside rooms. pile or rack section, the maximum quantities and height of storage
4-4.3.5 Class I liquids shall not be permitted in basement areas. permitted in that pile or rack section shall be the smallest of the -
Class II and ClassllIA liquids may be stored in basements provided individual quantities and heights for the specific classes present,
that automatic sprinkler protection and other fire protection resl~ectively. The maximum total quantities permitted shall be
facilities are provided in accordance with Section 48. {4-4.1.9, limated to a sum of the proportional amounts that each class of
4-4.2.12, 4-5.7.7} liquid present bears to the inaximum total permitted for its
4-4.3.6 Combustible commodities, as defined in NFPA 231, respective class. The sum of proportional amounts shall not exceed
Standard for General Storage, and NFPA 231C, Standard for Rack 100 percent. {4-4.2.10, 4-5.7.13}

24
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

Exceplion: The maximum total quantities in liquid warehouses 4-5.2.9 Liquids and Ordinary Combustible Storage. The following
shall not be restricted (see 4-4.4.3). applies to the storage of liquids and ordinary combustible commodi-
•i-.i.5 Operations. ties: {4-5.6.7, 4-5.6.8}
•H.5.1 Dispensing operations of Class I or Class 1I liquids shall not (a) Liquids shall not be stored in the same pile or in the same rack
h,. permitted in cut-ott rooms or attached buildings exceeding 1000 sections as ordinary combustible commodities. Where liquids are
s(1 t"1 (03 m2) floor area. {4-4.2.11} packaged to~ether with ordinary combustibles, as in kits, the storage
•I-.I.5.2 Dispensing of Class I and Class II liquids in liquid ware- shall be consldered on the basis of whichever commodity predomi-
houses sl~all not be permitted unless the dispensing area is suitably nates.
cut off from other ordinary combustible or liquid storage areas, as (b) Except as provided in (a), ordinary combustible commodities
specified in Section 4-4.2, and otherwise conforms with the shall be separated from liquids in containers by a minimum distance
applicable provisions of Section 4-4.9. {4-7.3} of 8 ft (2.4 m).
4-4.5.3 where dispensing is being done in inside rooms, cut-off 4-5.2.10 Operations. Dispensing of Class I and Class II liquids in
rooms, and attached buildings, operations shall comply with the general-purpose warehouses shal| not be permitted unless the
provisions of Chapter 5. {4-4.1.8, 4-4.2.1, 4-4.2.11} dispensing area is suitably cut offfrom other ordinary combustible
4-5 Requirements for Other Occupancies. {4-5} or liquid storage areas, as specified in Section 4-4.2, and otherwise
4-5.1 Basic Conditions. {4-5.1} conforms with the applicable provisions of Section 4-4.2. {4-7.3}
4-5.1.1 Scope. Where separate inside storage areas are required, 4-5.3 Dwellings and Residential buildings Containing No More
they shall conform to Section 4-4. Where other factors substantially than Three Dwelling Units and Accompanying Attached and
increase or decrease the hazard, the authority having jurisdiction Detached Garages. {Same as 4-5.2 in 1990 edition.}
may modify the quantities specified. {4-5.1.2} 4-5.4 Assembly Occupancies, Buildings Containing More than
4-5.1.9 The storage of any liquids shall not physically obsmzct a Three Dwelling Units, and Hotels. {Same as 4-5.3 in 1990 edition.}
means of egress. Class I liquids shall be so placed that a fire in the 4-5.5 Office, Educational, and Institutional Occupancies. The
liquid storage would not preclude egress from the area. {4-5.1.1} following apply to office, educational and institutional occupancies:
4-5.1.5 Liquids used for building maintenance, painting, or other {4.5.4} [Ed. note: Listed sections copied verbatim; section nos.
similar infrequent purposes may be stored temporarily in closed referenced in text changed as appropriate.]
containers outside of storage cabinets or separate inside storage 4-5.5.1 {4-5.4}
areas, if limited to an amount, that does not exceed a lO-day supply 4-5.5.2 {4-5.4.1}
at anticipated rates of consumption. {4-6.1.5} 4-5.5.3 {4-5.4.2}
4-5.1.4 Class I liquids shall not be stored in a basement, except as 4-5.5.4 {4-5.4.3}
provided in 4-5.6.5 and 4-5.10. {4-5.1.4} 4-5.5.5 {4-5.4.4}
4-5.9 General Purpose Warehouses (See 1-2, "Definitions.') {4-5.6) 4-5.6 Mercantile Occupancies, Retail Stores, and Other Related
4-5.9.1 General-purpose warehouses shall be separate, detached Areas Accessible to the Public {4-5.5} [Ed. note: Listed sections
buildings or shallbe separated from other types occupancies by a copied verbatim; section nos. referenced in text changed as
standard 4-hr fire wall, or, if approved, a fire partition having a fire- ap ropriate.]
resistance rating of not less than 2 hr. Each opening in a fire wall P4-~.6.l 14-5.5.11
shall be protected as provided by 4-4.2.2 {4-5.6.1} 4-5.6.2 {4-5.5.9}
4-5.2.2 Warehousing operations that involve storage of liquids shall 4-5.6.S {4-5.5.S}
be restricted to separate inside storage areas or to liquid warehouses 4-5.6.4 {4-5.5.4}
in accordance with Section 4-4, except as provided in 4-5.6.3. 4-5.6.5 {4-5.5.5}
{4-5.6.9} 4-5.6.6 {4-5.5.6}
4-5.9.3 Class IB and IC liquids in containers o f l gad (3.8 L) or less 4-6 Hazardous Materials Storage Lockers. {4-9}
capacity, Class II liquids in containers of 5 gal (18.9 L) or less 4-6.1 Hazardous materials storage lockers that are used as inside
capadty, and Class III liquids in containers of 60 gal (227 L) or less rooms shall be considered inside rooms and shall meet the
capacity may be stored in warehouses handling combustible requirements for inside rooms as set forth in 4-4, as applicable.
commodities, as defined in the scope of NFPA 231, Standard for {4-4.1}
General Storage, provided that the storage area is protected with 4-6.9 Sections 4-6.3 through 46.4 shall apply to storage of
automatic sprinklers in accordance with the provismns of this flammable and combustible liquids in containers, in hazardous
standard for 20 ft (6 m) storage of Class IV commodities and the material storage lockers (hereinafter referred to as lockers) which
quantities and height of liquid storage are limited to: are located outside. {4-9.1}
( a) Class IA liquids - - nototpelrmitted, [Remainder of Section 4-9, renumbered]
(b) Class and IC 660 L) ft m) high 4-7 Outdoor Storage. {4-8}
(c) Class II 1375 gal (5204 L) - - 5 ft (1.5 m~ hign, . [No change, renumbered]
(d) Class I l i a 2750 gal (10 409 L ) ~ 1 0 ft (5.0 m) high, 4-8 Fire Protection and Control. {4-6, 4-7}
(e) Class IIIB 13,750gal (52 044L) - - 15 ft (4.6 m) filgh. .4-8.1 Scope. Section 4-8 shall apply to all storage of liquids in
The liquid storage shall also conform to 4-5.6.4, 4-5.6.5, 4-5.6.6, containers and portable tanks as specified in sections 4-2 through
4-5.6.7, 4-5.6.8, and 4-5.6.9. {4-5.6.3} 4-7.
4-5.2.4 Liquids in Plastic Containers. Class I and Class II liquids in 4-8.2 Where automatic sprinklers are used, they shall be installed
plastic containers shall not be stored in general-purpose warehouses, in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of
but shall be stored in separate inside rooms or liquid warehouses in Sprinkler Systems, and approved by the authority having jurisdiction.
accordance with Section 4-4. (4-5.6.4} (For additional information, see Appendix D.) {4-4.1.1, 4-6.2}
Exception No. 1: Liquids in plastic containers may be stored in 4-8.9.1 Other systems such as aut°matic f°am-water systems'
general-purpose warehouses in accordance with protection a n d automatic water-spray systems, or other combinations of systems may
storage limitations specified in 4-5.6.5 as follows: be considered acceptable if approved by the authority having
(a) Products containing not more than 50 percent by volume of jurisdiction. (For additional information, see Appendix D.)
water-miscible liquids and with the remainder of the solution not {406.9.1}
being a Class I licjuid when packaged in individual containers, 4-8.9.9 Where an automatic fire protection system is provided in
(b) Water-miscible liquids containing more than 50 percent by inside rooms, as indicated in Table 4-4.4.9, the system shall be
volume in individual containers not exceeding 16 oz. capacity. designed and installed in accordance with the appropriate NFPA
Exception No. 2": Class I and Class II liquids in plastic containers standard for the type of system selected. {4-4.4.1}
may be stored in a general purpose warehouse if the packaging 4-8.9.5 In-rack sprinklers shall be installed in accordance with the
systems are listed and labeled for use with these materials. Other provisions of NFPA 231C~ Standard for Rack Storage of Materials,
provisions of 4-5.6 shall also apply. except as modified by 4-8.9. Alternate lines of in-rack sprinklers
4-5.2.5 Palletized, Solid Pile, or Rack Storage. Liquids in contain- shallbe staggered. Multiple levels of in-rack sprinkler heads shall be
ers may be stored on pallets, in solid piles, or on racks subject to the provided with water shields unless otherwise separated by horizontal
quantity and height limits of 4-5.6.3 provided the protection is in barriers or unless the sprinkler heads are listed for such installations.
accordance with Section 4-8, as applicable. {4-5.6.6}
4-5.2.6 Basement Storage Areas. Storage of liquids in basement {46.5)
4-8.5 Where storage on racks exist as permitted in this code) racks
areas of generalpurpose warehouses shall onlybe permitted as storing Class I or Class I[ liquids shall be either single-row or double-
providedby 4-4.3.6. {4-5.6.5} row as described in NFPA 2MC, Standard for Rack Storage of
4-5.9.7 Mixed Liquid Storage. When two or more classes of liquids Materials. [46.3}
are stored in a single pile or single rack section, the maximum 4-8.4 Suitable fire extinguishers or preconnected hose lines, either
quantities and heights permitted shall be as provided by 4-4.4.4. 1 I/9-in. (3.8-cm) lined or l-in. (2.5-cm) hard rubber, shall be
{4-5.6.8}
4-5.9.8 Separation and Aisles. Storage of liquids in general ~rovided where liquids are stored. Where I I/2-in. ($.8-crn) fire
ose is used, it shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 14,
purpose warehouses shall be arranged as provided by 4-4.5.3 and Standard for the Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems. {4-7.1}
4-4.3.4. {4-5.6.7}

25
 N F P A 30 D A 9 3 T C R

4-8.4.1 At least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of Table 4-2.3
not less than 20-B shall be located outside of, but not more than 10
ft (3 m) from, the door opening into any separate inside storage Maximum Allowable Size of Containers and Portable Tanks
area. |4-7.1.1}
4-8.4.2 At least one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of
not less than 20B shall be located not less than 10 ft (3 m), n o r more Flammable Liquids Combustible
than 50 ft (15 m), from any Class I or Class II liquid storage area
located outside of a separate inside storage area or liquid warehouse. Liquids
{4-7.1.2} Container Type Class IA Class IB Class IC Class II Class III
4-8.5 In protected general purpose and liquid warehouses, hand
hose lines shall be provided in sufficient n u m b e r to reach all liquid Fibre Drum
storage areas. {4-7.1.3} NMFC or UFC
4-8.6 The water supply shall be suffident to meet the fixed fire T,~, 3 2A, Types
protection demand, plus a total of at least 500 gal (1892 L) per B-H or
minute for inside and outside hose lines. [See Tables D-4-6.2(a), 3B-L, or
( b ) , a n d (c).] {4-7.1.4} Type 4A 60 gal 6o gal
4-8.7 Control of Ignition Sources. Precautions shall be taken to
prevent the ignition of flammable vapors. Sources of ignition
clude but are not limited to: open flames; lightning; smoking;
cutting and welding; hot surfaces; fidctional heat; static, electrical,
and mechanical sparks' spontaneous ignition, including heat-
producing chemical reactions; and radiant heat. {4-7.2} 3. In Appendix D, amend D4-6.2(a) by adding the words "or in
4-8.8 Materials with a water reactivity degree of 2 or higher as fibre drums, to the end of the second sentence. The revised
oudined in NFPA 704, Standard System for the Identification of the sentence would then read:
Fire Hazards of Materials, shall not be stored in the same area with "Design criteria, in this a~pendlx do not ap ply to stor age in plastic
other liquids. {4-7.4} drums or m fibre drums.--
4-8.9 Power-operated industrial trucks used to move containers of SUBSTANTIATION: To incorporate TIA 90-1 into 1993 edidon.
Class I liquids shall be selected, maintained, and operated in C O M M n ' r E E ACTION: Accept.
accordance with NFPA 505, Flresafety Standard for Powered
Industrial Trucks Including Type designations, Areas of Use,
Maintenance, and Operations. {4-7.5} (Log # 47)
SUBSTANTIATION: The current C_Jaapter 4 is not organized in a 30- 21 - (Table 4-2.3): Accept
logical manner, and specific requirements are often difficult to SUBMITYER: D.L. Blomquist, API
locate. In addition, many provisions are repeated in several places, RECOMMENDATION: Change to Container type column as
sometimes using different wording. The proposed reorganization follows:
will make Chapter 4 more clear and concise, and will allow specific Container Type
requirements to be more readily located. Attempts were made to
make no substantive technical changes; only editorial changes to .. Portable Tanks
combine similar requirements.
COMMrlTEE ACTION: Accept. Polyethylene
DOT Spec. M, U.N. 1H1.
or as authorized by
DOT Exception
(LOg # 46) SUBSTANTIATION: Table 4-2.3 The existing code refers to
30-19 - (4-2.1): Accept Chapter I, Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (DOT
SUBMITrER: D. L. Blomquist, API Regulations). These regnlations specify design characteristics of
RECOMMF.NDATION: Revise text as follows: packaging systems for transportation. Broadening those design
"Only approved containers and portable tanks shall be used. Metal eatiCificationsto apply to storage is not always appropriate. United
containers and metal portable tanks meeting the requirements of, ons (U.N.) Chapter 9 is similar to DOT Regulations except it is a
and containing products authorized by, Chapter I, Title 49 of the performance specification. Hence, it allows originality and
Code of Federal Regulations (DOT Regulations) and U.N. Chapter 9 competitive advantages to be i n d u d e d into package system design.
or NFPA 386, Standard for Portable Shipping Tanks for Flammable It is anticipated the industry will uniformly adopt the U.N. perfor-
and Combustible Liquids, shall be acceptable. Plastic containers mance specifications. This proposal positions the code to meet
meetingthe requirements of, and used for petroleum products either regulation.
within the scope of, one or more of the following specifications shall COMMrF!qgE ACTION: Accept.
be acceptable:"
SUIt~TANTIATION: 4-2.1 The existing code refers to Chapter I,
Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (DOT Regulations). (Log # 75)
These regnlations specify design characteristics of packaging systems 30- 22 - (44.1.2(b)): Accept in Principle
for transportation. Broadening those design specifications to apply SU-B~: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company
to storage is not always appropriate. United Nations (U.N.) chapter RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
9 is similar to DOT Regulations except it is a performance specifica- (b) 3 in. (7.6 cm) ~"k~. (12 ~..)
tion. Hence, it allows originality and competitive advantages to be SUBSTANTIATION: Where adequate space exists, desirable (safe)
included into package system design. It is anticipated the industry ramping gradients for "walkie'-type and "rider-operated" powered
will uniformly adopt the U.N. performance specifications. This industrial trucks handling palletized loads of flammable liquids are
between a 1:45 to 1:108 ratio. Many "inside rooms" have limited
~_~p osal positions the code to meet either regulation.
MMITrEE ACTION: Accept. . areas within, and on the lift truck "approach" at the overhead door
to these rooms. Additionally, wide and lengthy ramps - particularly
in occupancies with multiple inside rooms - prevent utihzation of
storage racks unless such ramping is fairly level. The current
(Log# 14) provisions of the Code which simply require a "4 in. height" do not
30- 20 - (4-2.1, Table 4-2.3, D-4-6.2 (a)): Accept recognize the added instability to loads of hazardous materials, ~ - d
S U B ~ G.A. Gordon, Sonocu Fibre Division difficulty 'h~alkie" and certain models of "rider-type" lift trucks have
RECOMM]~.NDATION: Revise text as follows: in negotiating steep; "ups and downs"; nor the fact that, in many
1. At the end of 4-2.1, add the following: cases, achieving a 4in. height in limited areas (especially existing
4-2.1 ..."Fibre drums that (1) meet the requirements of Item 296 of occupancies) is impossible. A "safe" 4 in. high design would require
the Nadonal Motor Freight Classification (NMFC) a n d / o r Rule 51 a total ramp length of 39' 2-3/8~1 A 3 in. high design -while still
of the Uniform Freight Classification (UFC) for Type 2#-, Types 3A, facilitating reside room "containment" - would permit total ramp
3B-H, or 3B-L, or Type 4A Fibre Drums, and (2) meet the require- lengths of 23 1 / 2 ft (using a 1:5 gradient), a much safer design than
ments of, and containing combustible liquid products authorized by, that which currently is required
Chapter I, Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (DOT C O M ~ AC'I'ION: -Accept in Principle by means of Action of
Regulations), or by DOT Exemption, shall be acceptable." Proposal 30-32 (Log #23).
2. In Table 4-2.3, make the following entries: COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The concerns of the submitter are
addressed by the proposed revision to (new) 4-4.2.7/44.2.8.

26
 N F P A 30 - - A93 TCR

FOR NFPA 30 4-4.1.2(b)

SUBSTANTIATION FOR 31n.

r--r -3- F-I

- r I r ~ "l-I
I I I
~/~Y//////////// I

UNSAFE UNSAFE

m
m

,'T'-~ 7-'1
...J

I ! l lJ
",Y/.~Y////'Z~//////?
.i.I

SAFE

I__ 11'-3" I (o~,~

-I
91.27"

I- I
I_ 23'-6"
SAFE

NOTE, A 41n. RISE USING A

91" ('SAFE') GRADIENT
WOULD REQUIRE A TOTAL
RAMP LENGTH OF 39 FT. 2 3/B IN.,
UNACHIEVABLE IN MOST OCCUPANCIES.

27
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

(Log # 63) Also, the Committee points out that these doors are not installed in
30- 23 - (44.1.6 (44.2.11 in Proposal 30-18, LOg #45)): Reject the plane of the wall, liut on the face of the wall. Two doors ensure
SUBMITrER: Kenneth Wilkins, Safety Storage In~ t h a t a back-up exists should the primary door be pulled down due to
RECOMMENDATION: Delete the words "either a gravity or" from roof collapse.
the first sentence and add: "(Exception: Where natural ventilation
can be shown to be acceptable)" at the end of the first sentence in
Section 4-4.1.6. This pmagraph will read:
"Every inside room shall be i3rovided with a continuous mechanical (Log # 37)
exhaust ventilation system (EXCEPTION: Where natural ventilation 30-27- (Table 44.2.2 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept
can be shown to be acceptable for the liquids as stored). Mechanical SUB~: RusseilJ. Kerlin, Dow CorningCorporation
ventilation shall be used if Class I liquids are dispensed within the [ RECOMMENDATION: Delete reference t o h a l o n in first foomote.
room." SUBSTANTIATION: Due environmental concerns surrounding
SUBSTANTIATION: Gravity or natural ventilation is rarely used to Halon, specific reference to Halon should be eliminated.
ventilate inside storage rooms. This revision will correlate the COMMrlWEEACTION: Accept. Already done in Proposal 30-18
ventilation requirements in NFPA 30 for inside rooms with those (Log #45).
that apl~ear in the following codes:
1. Uniform Fire Codes (1991 Ed.) -Sections 79.203(g) and
80.301 (m)
2. Uniform building Code (1991 EeL) - Section 905(h) (Log # 19)
3. Standard Building Code (1991 EcL) - Section 408.3.4.2 30- 28 - (44.2.3 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept in Part
COMMrlTEE ACTION: Reject SUBMrrIT.R: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
COMMITrRg STATRM£NT: Subsection 4-4.1.6 (4-4.2.11 in RECOMMENDATION: 1. Add at end of first sentence: "or by one
Chapter 4 rewrite, Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)) is performance 4-hr door."
language that can be met by gravity ventilation. The correlation [ 2. Delete parenthetical reference to door class for 3-hr. door.
issue is not considered sufficientjustification for this change. SUBSTANTIATION: See substantiation for proposal relative to
Table 4-2.2.2.
COMMITIT~ACTION: Accept Items 2. Reject Item 1.
COMMrrrEE STATEMENT: Item 1 is rejected for the same reason
, (LOg# 64) as Item 2 in Proposal 30-26 (Log #18).
30- 24 - (4-4.1.6(b) (44.2.11(b) in Proposal 30-18, Log #45)): Reject
SUBMITI'ER: Kenneth Wilkins, Safety Storage, l n ~
RECOMMENDATION: Delete the following words from paragrapli
(b) of Section 4-4.1.6: (Log # 20)
"...but not less than 150 cfm (4 m 3 per min)" 30- 29 - (4-4.2.4 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept
The first sentence of the paragraph will read: SUB~: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
"Mechanical ventilation shall provide at least one cubic foot per I RECOMMENDATION: Change exception to apply only to inside
minute of exhaust per square foot of floor area (1 m 3 per rain per 3 I rooms.
m2)." SUBSTANTIATION: This is a valid requirement for liquid
SUBSTANTIATION: The deletion is necessary to correlate the warehouses as well.
ventilation requirements in NFPA 30 with those that have been COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.
promulgated in the Uniform and Standard Codes (Please note:
similar requirements will appear in the 1993 BOCA Codes):
1. Uniform Fire Codes (1991 Ed.) -Sections 79.203(g) and
80.301(m) (LOg # 21)
2. Uniform building Code (1991 Ed.) - Section 905(b) 30- 30- (4-4.2.5 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept
3. Standard Building Code (1991 Ed.) - Section 408.3.4.2 SUBMrlWER: Russell I. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
The above codes state: '~Mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be at I RECOMMENDATION': Add "or unstable" a_/ter each occurrenc~ of
a rate of not less than 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot of ] "Class IA or lB."
floor area over the storage area." SUBSTANTIATION: Section 4-4.5.3 (reorganized ch.) refers to
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. Chapter 5 for dispensing of liquids, but section 5-3.2.7 requires
COMM1TYEE STATEMENT: There is no technical justification for explosion venting for Class IA and unstable liquids. Addition of
this proposal. The Committee strongly feels that a minimum word "unstable" as proposed wil'T'make 4-4.2.4 consistent with
ventilation rate is necessary to ensure that vapors do not migrate Chapter 5.
away from the zone where they can be captured and expelled. COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept.

(Log# 17) (Log # 22)

30- 25 - (4-4.2.1 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept 30- 31 - (44.2.6 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept
SUBMITrEI~ RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation SU]$MITrER: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
RECOMMENDATION: Delete exception for liquid warehouses. J REODMMENDATION: Eliminate exception for l|quid warehouses.
SUBSTANTIATION: The requirement is valid for all liquid storage SUBSTANTIATION: It is appropriate and consistent to also require
areas, including liquid warehouses. liquid-tight floors for liquid warehouses.
COMMITYEE ACTION: Accept. COMMITrEEACTION: Accept. Already done in Proposal 30-18
(Log #45).

(LOg# 18)
30- 26 - (Table 4-4.2.2 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept in Part
SUBMrrrER: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation (Log # 23)
30- 32 - (44.2.7 and 44.2.8 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept in Part in
RECOMMENDATION: 1. Change door rating corresponding to 1 Principle
hour wall to 3/4.
S U B ~ RussellJ. Kerlin,. Dow Corning Corporation
2. Add "or 4" to required door rating corresponding to 4 hour RECOMMENDATION: Rewse text as follows:
wall. I. Replace sections with three revised sections as follows:
3. Eliminate fire door classes from table. 4-4.2.7* Means shall be provided to prevent the flow of liquids
SUBSTANTIATION: 1. Three-quarter hour doors in 1 hour walls is under emergency conditions into adjoming building areas. This
consistent with current industry practice. shall be accomplished by providing one or a combination of the
2. There are approved 4 hour rated doors now available. following across the entire width of each opening to adjacent
3. NFPA 80 is no longer using door classes. building areas: - -
COM~EACTION: Accept in Part. Accept Items 1 and 3; (a) Noncombustible, liquidtight raised sills, curbs or ramps of
ct Item 2. suitable height.
MrYrEE STATEMENT: The three-hour doors are a minimum (b) Open-grated trenches.
fire protection rating. Double- three-hour rated doors protecting (c) Other means acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.
openings in ,l-hour fire walls have proven effective over the years.
There is no justification for deleting them from NFPA 30. Exception: This does not apply to storage areas where only Class
III liquids are stored.

28
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

4-4.2.8* Where automatic sprinkler protection is provided, means c. The exception with respect to containers 5 gal capacity or less
shall also be provided to prevent burning liquids from exposing and Class III liquids applies only to cutoff rooms and attached
other storage piles or racks and also from exposing other important building wbenlogically it should apply to all storage areas. (See,
buildings, adjoining property and critical natural resources. This however, point no. 4)
shall be accoml~lished by providing one or a combination of the d. The requirement reg~ding the capacity of drainage systems is
following: not mentioned with respect to inside rooms even though trenches
(a) Noncombustible, liquidtight raised sills, curbs or ramps of connected to a drainage system and sprinklers may be provided.
suitable height at exterior openings. e. The current text does not specifically allow design features
(b) Interior, noncombustible and liquidtight raised sills, curbs or other than sills, ramps or trenches for inside rooms, whereas "other
other flow diverting structures. design features" or "other suitable means" are permitted for cutoff
(c) Sloped floors. rooms, attached buildings, and liquid warehouses.
(d) Open-~rated trenches or floor drains connected to a properly f. The requirement to prevent flow of liquids "throughout the
designedd/~dnage system. building" applies only to new liquid warehouse with sprinklers when
(e) Wall scuppers discharging to a safe location or a properly logically it should at least also apply to new cutoff rooms and
designed drainage system. attached buildings with sprinklers. (See point no. 5)
(f) Other means acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction. g. The requirement for drains to discharg e to a "safe location"
Exception No. I: Wall scuppers are not permissible for inside app!ies only to inside rooms when logically|t should apply to all
rooms. storage areas when drainage systems are employed.
Exception No. 2: This does not apply to existing storage areas. The proposed chan~es will eliminate these inconsistencies.
Exception No. 3: This does not apply to storage areas storing only 2. The intended objectives of the existing sections are not very
Class IIIB liquids, heavier than water liquids (specific gravity >I), dear. The proposed changes will more clearly define these
water miscible liquids and liquids with viscosities exceeding I0,000 objectives, which are as followsi
centipoise. • To prevent flow of flammable/combustible liquids resulting
4-4.2.9* Where drainage systems are used to meet the require- from a spill into adjoining building areas. (This objective applies
ments of 4-4.2.7 or 4-4.2.8, such systems shall have sufficient capacity regardless of any protection provided.)
to carry of expected discharge from automatic sprinklers and hose • Where automatic sprinklers are provided, to prevent sprinkler
streams, if used, and terminate in a safe location acceptable to the water from carrying burning liquids throughout the building and
authority having jurisdiction. exposing other storage piles or racks, further spreading the fire.
2. Add corresponding appendix sections as follows: (This objective presently only applies to liquid warehouses.)
A-4-4.2.7 The appropriate heil~ht for sills, curbs or ramps will • Where drainage systems are used, to design the drainage system
depend on a number of factors, including the maximum expected to ~dequately remove liquids, including any water from sprinklers
spill volume, the floor area and the existence of any drainage and hose stream, from the storage area and discharge to a "safe
systems. However, 4'in. (10 cm) is a commonly used height. Where location."
open-grated trenches are used, the volume of the trench should be In addition, following the provisions in the existing sections would
able to contain the maximum expected spill volume or otherwise be not necessarily achieve the intended objective~ The proposed
connected to a properly designed drainage system. changes would better allow the objectives to be achieved.
A-4-4.2.8 Sprinkler water can transport burning liquids to 3. It is recognized that environmental prntection per se is not
unaffected areas, including underneath other storage piles or racks, within the scope of the Code. However, fire water draining from a
further spreading the fire. It is therefore important to control the liquid storage area will likely be contaminated and could easily
flow of liquids, including sprinkler water, and safely remove it from endanger important natural resources, e.g., public waterways,
the affected area. drinking water supplies, public sewer systems, etc. (reE Sherwin-
A-4-4.2.9 Drainage systems, including trenches, drains and wall Williams and Sandoz fires). It is essential, therefore, that the Code
scuppers themselves, should be designed to handle the expected somehow address this issue. The proposed appendix section will do
flow rate of water from sprinklers and hose streams. Otherwise, $O.
burning liquids may spread throughout the storage area and 4. It is not reasonable to allow an exception for storage areas
potentially into other unaffected areas..The drainage systems should storing only small (5 gad or less) containers since it is still possible for
also terminate in a safe location so as to not subsequentl~ expose relatively large spills to occur (e.g., when a carton containing several
other important facilities, adjoining property or important natural containers or even an entire pallet is dropped). In addition,
resources. Such "safe locations" may be specially designed contain- prevention of liquid flow to adjoining areas is critical when
ment basins, sumps, pits, collection tanks, waste treaunent facility, or sprinklers are provided, regardless o f container size.
other locations able to safely contain the discharge liquids. Since in 5 . Control of liquid flow is critical whenever automatic sprinklers
nearly all cases it is impractical to size such locations based on the are provided in order to prevent the spread of burning liquids to
maximum possible operating time of sprinklers and hose streams other storage piles or racks. Without such control, sprinklers could
(which could potentially range from a couple hours to indefinitely), be ineffective and the fire could escalate, potentially involving the
it is common practice to base the size on sprinklers and hose streams entire storage area. Therefore, the requirement to prevent the flow
operating for a specified period of time. The appropriate period of of liquids ~throughout the building" should apply to all storage areas
time depends on the particular situation and the potential conse- with sprinklers, not just liquid warehouses. The proposed changes
quences of exceeding the determined volume. Evaluation of the reflect this conclusion.
potential consequences should include consideration of the 6. The provisions for inside rooms require that trenches drain to a
following: safe location. However, if sprinklers are not provided, it is not
(a) Properties and hazards of materials in liquid storage area necessary to drain the trench provided it is sized to handle the
(b) Type and design of fire protection system(s), including largest anticipated spill. This is reflected in the proposed changes.
expected flow rates 7. The exception with respect to Class III liquids, heavier than
(c) Surrounding topography and surface (soil type) water liquids, water soluble liquids and high viscosity liquids is
(d) Proximity to other important buildings, adjoining property, included since such liquids are easily extinguished by sprinklers or
and critical natural resources otherwise do not present a risk of being carried by fire water to other
(e) Contingency plans (or backup systems) and the availability of ar~.
resources to implement 8. The existing sections are a combination of specification and
(0 Capabilities and response time of emergency responders performance based requirements. The proposed changes would
(g) Other applicable codes and regulations make all of the requirements .l~rformance based. In particular, the
3. Renumber remaining sections. requirement for 4 inch high sdls, curbs, and ramps would be
SUBSTANTIATION: 1. The requirements for the control of liquid removed from the main body of the Code and placed in the
flow are inconsistent for the various types of storage areas. Spedfl- ~(~ ndlx.
ACTION: Accept in Part in Principle.
a. The current text does not specifically list sills, curbs or ramps as 1. Accept the submitter's proposed 4-4.2.7 and its appendix item A-
a means of preventing flow from cutoff rooms and attached 4-4.2.7 exactly as proj~osed.
buildings into adjacent building areas, whereas these are listed with 2. Revise the submstter's proposed 4-4.2.8 to read:
respect to inside storage rooms and liquid warehouses. "Where automatic sprinkler protection is provided, in addition to
b. The current text does not specifically list curbs, scuppers or the requirements of 4-4.2.7, means shall also be provided to prevent
drains as means of preventing flow from inside rooms and liquid burning liquids from exposing other storage piles or racks and also
warehouses into adjacent building areas whereas these are listed with from exposing other important buildings, adjoining property, and
respect to cutoff rooms and attached buildings. (It is worth noting, critical natural resources.
however, that curbs, drains or scuppers alone would likely not Exception No. I: This does not apply to storage areas storing only
prevent flow into adjacent areas.) Glass IIIB liquids, heavier than water liquids, water-miscible liquids,
and liquids having viscosities exceeding I0,000 centipolse.

29
 N F P A 30 m A 9 3 T C R

Exception No. 2: This does not apply where other extinguishing (Log # 25)
systems, such as total flooding CO2,high expansion foam, or AFFF 30- 34 - (4-4.2.11 and 4-4.2.12 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept
are used." S U B ~ RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
3. Revise the submitter's proposed Appendix Item A-4-4.2.8 by RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
adding the following new paragraph: 1. Change "Every inside room" to "liquid storage areas where
"I'his may be accomplished by using one or more of the following: dispensing is permitted and conducted."
(a) Noncombustible, liquidtight raised sills, curbs or ramps of 2. Delete 4-4.2.12.
suitable height at exterior o .~.nings. SUBSTANTIATION: The proposed change eliminates unnecessary
(b) Inteffor, noncombustthle and liquidtight raised sills, curbs or section 44.2.12 and requires ventilation only in those areas where
other flow diverting structures. dispensing is conducted. (Original section required ventilation in
(c) Sloped floors. . , inside rooms regardless.)
(d) Open-grated trenches or floor drains connecteu to a proper|y COMMrIWEEACTION: Accept, but delete "permitted and".
designed drmnage system. COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The deleted words are not necessary.
(e) Wall scuppers discharging to a safe location or a properly
designed drainage system.
(f) Other means acceptable to the authority havingjurisdictlon."
4. Revise the submitter's proposed appendix item A-g-4.2.9 by
deleting the parenthetical in the body of the paragraph. (Log # 26)
COMMITrEE STATEMENT: The Committee basically agrees with 30- 35 - (4-4.2.9 and 4-4.2.10 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept in
this proposal and the substantiation for it. The changes made by the Principle
Committee are editorial in nature. Also, the Committee felt that the SUBMITIXR: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
list of methods in submitter's 44.2.8 is more appropriately located in RECOMMENDATION: 1. Delete 4-4.2.10, and'revise 4-4.2.9 to read
the Appendix. as follows:
4-4.2.9 In liquid storage areas where dispensing of Class I liquids is
permitted and conducted, electrical wiring and equipment shall be
(Log # 24) suitable for Class I, Division 1 or 2 classified locations as shown in
30-33- (44.2.10 (Reorganized Ch.)): Acceptin Principle Figure 44.2.9. For areas where only Class II and Class III liquids are
SUBMITrER: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation dispensed, electrical wiring and equipment may be suitable for
RECOMMENDATION: Expand section to also apply to inside general use. (NFPA 70, NationalElectrical Code, provides informa-
rooms where dispensing is conducted. tion on the design and installation of electrical equipment.)
SUBSTANTIATION: The current requirements are inconsistent. 2. For Figure 44.2.9, include figure similar to Figure 5-4.24 from
COMMITrEE ACTION: Accept in principle by deleting 44.2.10. NFPA 497A.
COMMITYEE STATEMENT: Subsection 4-4.2.10 is not necessary.

Fill pipe

Vent 5' Radius

3' Radius 18"

~ Grade

Below grade location such as sump

U Division 1 Division 2

Figure 4-4.2.9 Drum Filling Station, Outdoors or Indoors with Adequate Ventilation.

3. Renumber remaining sections. these inconsistencies and recommends use of an existing figure from
SUBSTANTIATION: Section 4-4.2.9 requires classified electrical NFPA 497A to dearly define requirements.
equipment for all inside storage rooms, even if dispensing not COMMITI~EACTION: Accept in principle by means of revised
conducted. However, the area need only be classified if dispensing language in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45).
is conducted. In addition, both sections require that the entire area COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The editorial revision addresses the
be classified. However, this will generally not be necessary if concerns of the submitter.
adequate ventilation is provided. The proposed change eliminates

30
 NFPA 30 - - A93 TCR

storage areas if the ordinary combustibles, other than those used for
30- 36 - (4-4.3.2 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept (LOg # 27) [ packaging the liquids, are separated a minimum of 8 ft (2.4 m)
SU-B~ RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
RECOMMENDATION: Eliminate exception for hquid warehouses. I horizontally, by aisles or open racks, from the liquids in storage and
if protection is provided in accordance with 4-8.
SUBSTANTIATION: The current reqmrements are inconsistent. SUBSTANTIATION: The current requirements for the various
COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept. types of storage areas are inconsistent. In particular, it is not
reasonable to expect an 8 foot aisle to provide adequate separation
without sprinkler protection. In addition, the phrase "in limited
quantities" should apply to all types of liquid storage areas ,not just
(Log # 28) liquid warehouses. Otherwise, there is no real distinction between a
30- 37- (44.3.2 (Reorganized Ch.)): Reject cutoffliquid storage building and a general purpose warehouse, for
SUBM1T1T.R: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation example.
RECOMMENDATION: Revise to read as follows: COMMITrEE ACTION: Accept.
4-4.3.2 Wood at least 1 in. (2.5 cm) nominal thickness may be used
for shelving, racks, dunnage, scuflboards and similar installations.
Wood of such thickness may also be used as a floor overly if the floor
itself is of wood construction. However, the wood overlays should be (Log # 31)
replaced when it becomes coated or saturated with spilled liquids. 30-42- (4-4.3.7 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept
SUBSTANTIATION: Wood flooring can easily absorb spilled SUBMITYER: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
liquids and could cause a fire to spread extremely rapidly through RECOMMENDATION: Change "in liquid warehouses" to "in liquid
the area, potentially even preventing personnel from exitin,g. storage areas."
Therefore, wooden floor overlays should not be perm|tted unless the SUBSTANTIATION: This is a valid requirement for all types of
floor itself is wood, in which case the wooden overlays can act as liquid storage areas, not just liquid warehouses.
replaceable protective coverings. It is important, however, that such COMMrlTEE ACTION: Accept.
overlays be replaced whenever they become saturated or coated with
spilled liquids.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
COMMrlTEE STATEMENT: No evidence is presented that a (Log # 32)
problem exists. 30- 43 - (4-4.3.8 (Reorganized Ch.)): Reject
SUBM1TIT.R: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
RECOMMENDATION: Delete first sentence.
(Log # 29) SUBSTANTIATION: Separating containers by pallets or other
30- 38 - (44.3.3 (New) (Reorganized Ch.)): Reject combustible dunnage conflicts with 4-4.3.7 and 4-4.3.8 (reorganized
SUBM1TIT.R: RussellJ. gerlin, Dow Coming Corporation ch.). Deleting the first sentence will further allow the remaining
RECOMMENDATION: Add new section 4-4.3.3 as follows: provisions to apply to all types of Storage areas, not just liquid
44.3.3 Storage of liquids in racks shall not be permitted unless warehouses.
protected in accordance 4-8. Storage in racks shall then comply with COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
Table 44.4.1 (c). COMMITYEE STATEMENT: The proposed rewrite of NFPA 30,
Renumber remaining sections. Chapter 4 addresses the concerns of the submitter. (See Proposal
SUBSTANTIATION: The Code does not explicitly state that 30-18 (Log #45)).
protection is necessary for storage on racks, but does implies such.
The proposed section clearly defines requirement.
COMMITrEE ACTION: Reject. (Log # 33)
COMMITYEE STATEMENT: The Committee agrees that rack 30- 44- (4-4.3.9 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept
storage in unprotected warehouses should be limited in comparison SUBMrlTER: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
to protected warehouses, but there is nojustitication to eliminate it RECOMMENDATION: Change "in liquid warehouses" to "in liquid
entirely. storage areas", and change "unprotected warehouse" to "unpro-
tected storage area."
SUBSTANTIATION: This requirement is valid for all types of
(Log # 34) storage areas, not just liquid warehouses.
30- 39 - (44.3.3 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept COMMITYEE ACTION: Accept.
SUBMITS, R: RusseUJ. Kerlin, Dow Cornmg Corporation
RECOMMENDATION: Delete phrase "in liquid warehouses."
SUBSTANTIATION: This requirement should apply to all types of
liquid storage areas, not just liquid warehouses. (Log # 76)
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. 30- 45 - (4-4.2.5) (4-4.2.8 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Accept in
Principle
SUB~: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
(LOg # 35) ~Curbs, ~ scuppers, special drains, or other suitable means
30- 40 - (4-4.3.4 and 4-4.3.5 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept in Principle shall be provided to prevent the flow of liquids under emergency
SUBMITIT.R: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation conditions into adjacent building areas except where the individual
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: container ~pacity is 5~al (18.9 L) or less or if the liquids stored are
1. In section 4-4.3.4 (reorganized ch.), change "in liquid ware- only Class Ill liquids..'... D . ~ , , , ~ oyez..., 1~..0~.1",Drain~e
houses" to "in liquid storage areas". systems, when used, shall have suffident capacity to carry off
2. Delete section 4-4.3.5 (reorganized ch.). expected discharge of water from fire protection systems and hose
3. Renumber remaining sections. streai'ns."
SUBSTANTIATION: Section 4-4.3.4 (reorganized ch.) is valid for SUBSTANTIATION: The revised wording provides better clarifica-
all types of liquid storage areas, not just liguid warehouses. Section tion as to the intent, and avoids assumptions with wording such as
4-4.3.5 (reorganized ch.) is inconsistent vath this section. ~ h e drainage system." The revised wording clarifies the peffor-
COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept in principle by means of Action on mance~ariented nature of this paragraph.
Proposal 30-18 (Log #45). COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in principle by means of C~ommit-
C O ~ STATEMENT: The proposed rewrite of NFPA 30, tee Action on Proposal 30-32 (Log #23).
Chapter 4 addresses the concerns of the submitter. COMMITYEE STATEMENT: The action taken in Proposal 30-32
(Log #23) adequately addresses the concerns of the submitter.

(Log # 30)
30-41 - (4-4.3.6 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept (Log # 48)
SUBMIT1T,R: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation 30-46 - (4-4.2.11) (4-4.2.5 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Reject
RECOMMENDATION: Eliminate exception and revise section as SUB~: D. L. Blomquist, API
follows: RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
4-4.3.7 Limited quantities of combustible commodities, as defined 4-4.2.11 Dispensing operations of Class I ~-~a~rH- liquids are not
in NFPA 231, Standard for General Storage, and NFPA 231C, vermitted in cutoff rooms or attached buildings exceeding 1000 sq ft
Standard for Rack Storage of Materials, may be stored in liquid ~93 m2) floor area if liquids are stored in the same room. In rooms

31
 N F P A 30 ~ A93 TCR

where dispensing of Class I liquids is permitted, electrical systems SUBSrAN'rI&TION: This revision would expand provisions to
shall comply with 4-4.1.5, except that within 3 ft (0.90 m) of a cover dispensing in liquid warehouses as allowed by section 4-4.5.2
dispensing nozzle area, the electrical system shall be suitable for (reorganized ch.).
Class I, Division 1; ventilation shall be provided per 4-4.1.6; and COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.
operations shall comply with the provisions of Ghapter 5.
SUBSTANTIATION: 44.2.10 If only dispensing Ol~erations are
conducted in the cutoff room or attached building m question, the
facility would be governed by NFPA 50, Chapter 5. Adding the (Log # 70)
words if liquids are stored in the same room clarifies the intent of 30. 51 - (4-5.5) (4-5.6 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Accept in
this paragraph. Principle
C O M M r r r E E ACTION: Reject. SUB~: David G. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The proposed rewrite of NFPA 30, RECX)MMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
Chapter 4 addresses this issue. See Proposal 50-18 (Log #45). 4-5.5 Mercantile Occupancies, Wholesale and Retail Stores, and
Other Related Areas,',~cc~;:L:c ~. d...."..'~';c
S~ANTIATION: The term "Accessible to the Public" should
not be described in the retail heading, as it implies that all stores are.
(Log # 36) Also, many paint (and other) retailers sell wholesale to contractors,
30. 47 - (4-4.4.1 (Reorganized Ch.)): Reject e.g. Therefore, the terms should be made current.
SUBMYITER: RusseliJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation C~MMrlTEEACTION: Acceptin Principle. In 4-5.6 of Proposal
RECOMMENDATION: Revise last sentence of section to read as 30-18 (Log #45), change title to ~Mercantile Occupancies." Also, in
follows: the definition of "Mercantile Occupancy" add the words ~wholesale
"Where solid pile or palietized storage exceeds the limits as or retail" before the word "displaying."
specified by Table 4-4.4.1 (a) or where liquid storage is in racks, COMMrITEE STATEMENT: The Committee agrees with the
~rotection in accordance with Section 4-8 shall be provided." intent of the submitter. The proposed changes appear to be easier
LqKs~I'ANTIATION: This more clearly defines the need for and less confusing to the reader.
protection when the limits of Table 4-4.4.1(a) are exceeded. The
current text only implies that protection is needed. This is also
consistent with proposed new section 4-4.3.3.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. 52 (4-5 5 1) (4.5 6 1 in Pro osal 30-18 (L #45) Reject g#80)
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee feels that the existing S ~ ~ David C. Tabar,Prhe Sberwin-~lliam:s Company
language is adequate. RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
4-5.5.1" In storage and display areas that are accessible to the
public, the storage of Glass Lclass 11, and Class IliA liquids shall be
limited to quantities needed for display, sto_.~_ggand normal
merchandising purposes but shall not exceed the limits as given by
30. 48 - (4-4.4.3 (New)): Accept the following (also see Table A-4-5.5.1):
SUBMITrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids (a) In protected storage and display areas, the total aggregate
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new section 4-4.4.3 to read as follows: quantity of Class I, I I, and IliA liauids in any combination shall not
4-4.4.$ Storage of liquids in racks shall not exceed the maximum exceed~4Lgal, per sq f.t (St-162Ll~r m ) of gross fl.o..or~ e a .b~tj,
total quantity limits given in Table 4.4.4.1 (a) unless protected in
accordance with Section 4-8. Storage in racks shall then comply with
Table 4-4.4.1(c). to a maximum 7#00 gal. (2~,388 L), except that Class iA liquids
SUBSTANTIATION: The Code does not prohibit storage on racks shall be limited to a maximum quantity of120 t,al. (454 L).
in unprotected warehouses, nor does it limit storage quantities. For (b) In unprotected storage and display areas on other than the
consistency, maximum quantities should not exceed the limits given ground floor, the total aggregate quantity of Class IB, IC, II and IliA
in the Tables in this Section on storage in unprotected warehouses. liquids in any combination shall not exceed 1 gal. per sqft (40 L per
Until limits are established based on studies or test data, some limits mZ) of gross floor area, and the storage of Class iA liquids shall be
are appropriate and Table. 4-4..2 7 from. the 1990 edition of NFPA 30 prohibited. In unprotected ground floor display are~, the total
seems to be a reasonable interim basra If protection per Section 4-8 aggregate quantity of Class I, II and IliA liquids in any combination
is provided, then the increased storage quantities in Table 4-4.4.1(c) shall not exceed 2 gal. per sc1 ft (81 L per m2) of'gross floor area, up_
seem to be reasonable. to. a max.imum 7,500 gal (28,388 L), except that Class IA liquids shall
COMMrlWEE ACTION: Accept. be limited to a maximum quantity of 1~0 ~al (454 L). bet-the

(e) In storage and display areasprotected in accordance with

(Log # ~9) Tables D-4-6.~(a) through D-4-0.2(c), or Tables D-4-6.2.1 or 13-4-
30. 49 - (4-4.5.1 and 4-4.5.2 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept 6;2.2, the m~aximum quantities permitted may be doubled:
SUB~: Russell]. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation Protected shall mean protected ~ t h automatic sprinklers
RECOMMENDATION: Delete 4-4.5.2 and revise 4-4.5.1 to read as installed at least in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the
follows: Installation of Sprinkler Systems, requirements for Ordinary Hazard
4-4.5.1 Dispensing of Class I or Class II liquids shall not be Group 2 Occupancies. The gross floor area used for computing the
permitted in cut-off rooms or attached buildings exceeding 1000 sq maximum quantity permitted shall be considered as the l$ortion of
ft (93 m2) floor area or in liquid warehouses unless the dispensing the floor actually belng used for merchandising liquids and
area is suitably cut off from other ordinary combustible or liquid immediately adjacent aisles.
storage areas, as specified in Table 4-4.2.1 and conforms with the SUBS'rANTIATION: Currently, NFPA 30 4-5.5.1 allows quantities of
applicable provisions of Section 4-4.2 flammable and combustible liquids in mercantile occupancies to be
Renumber remaining sections. calculated by applying the storage density factor (2 gal~/ft2 in
SUIkS~rANTIATION: The proposed revision makes requirements ~protected" display areas) times the gross floor area U - t h a t portion
consistent for cutoff rooms, attached buildings and liquid ware- of the floor actually being used for merchandising liouids and
houses. It also Sl~.cifically refers to Table 4-4.2.1 of reorganized immediately, ad'acent
a~j! . aisles . ") Theoreti caUy.,a 1.00,060 ft2
chapter to more clearly define the meaning of *suitably cut off." ~yperstore selling 100 percent flammable liqmds throughout 100
C O ~ ACTION: Accept, but revise the proposed language percent of the store's usable space - and accessible to thepublic -
by adding "liquids" after "Class-I" and by adding ~'at temperatures could be permitted to store and display up to 200.000 rials, of Class
above their flashpoints" after "Class il liquids." IB and IC flammable liquids, provided that automatic sprinklers
COMMITYEE STATEMENT: The Committee-proposed editorial were installed to "Ordinary Hazard, Group 20ccupand/" standards.
changes maintain consistency with other similar requirements in (It is believed that the 2 gals/ft2 (etc.) j~rovisions were first
Chap~ter 4. introduced back in 1966; the protected definition requiring
"Ordinary Hazard Group 2 Occupancy" sprinkler systems is believed
to have been introducedin 1977.) Most of the NFPA 30 provisions
(Log # 38) applicable to mercantile/retail occupancies are believed to have
30-50- (4-4.5.3 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accel?t been promulgated with little technical merit. Also, the current
SUBMI'ITER: RusseilJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation provisions do not adequately consider today's retail environment,
RECOMMENDATION: Revise section to read as follows: which includes warehouse-type stores, "spedality ~ store occupancies,
4-4.5.3 Dispensing ol~erations shall complywith the applicable such as automotive, industrial and commercial supply storesi'or body
provisions o f Chapter ~. shops, industrial accounts, etc.

32
 NFPA 30 - - A93 TCR

The proposed revisions are based upon: (a) recent fire test data,
conducted at Underwriters Laboratories fire test facilities in
Northbrook, IL, (see proposed Appendix E(4), 1991 Fire Tests); =- !:::.?t:}:PL- :%-
(h) an effort to reasonably limit allowable quantities of fiammable ?.'~':,'T'"; ? "~. 9--.,~"'.Y ~Z ".':--" ~".7"?'Z-'~-'," ~; ~:--°{20 gal (454
and combustible liquids within occupancies or ordinary construc- L) of Class IA liquidst and 7~500 gal (~8~388 L) of total at,t,re~ate
tion; (c) a need to provide incentives to retailers to install higher Class IB~ IC~ II and IliA liquids in any combination. These quantities
density sprinkler systems - and in certain cases - in-rack sprinklers for may be doubled for areas protected in accordance with Tables
rack storage of fiammable and combustible liquids; (d) to develop a D-4-6.~(a) through Tables D-4-6.~.1 or D-4-6.~.2 " • • •
national consensus standard that is usable a n d enforceable; and Storage of C~ass IA liquids shall be prohibited in basement storage
(e) additional fire testing planned by retailers in 1992. On this last areas.

item, it is believed that new test data will provide even further SUBSTANTIATION: Same problem/substantiation accompanying
substantiation in developing alternative protection tables for an
assortment of retail occupancy types.
~p osed revisions to 4-5.5.1.
M M r r r g E ACTION: Reject.
In September 1991, fire tests were conducted at Underwriters COMMIIWEE STATEMENT: This proposal is rejected for the same
Laboratories fire test facilities in Northbrook, IL. The complete test reason as was Proposal 30.52 (Log #80).
report has been provided with this proposal to NTPA, and to the
NFPA 30 Technical Committee. The fall 1991 fire tests were
intended to represent the fire exposure associated with sales and
storage areas of typical wholesale a n d / o r retail paint stores. All tests (LOg # 40)
were performed under an 18 ft ceiling at the U.L. fire test facility. 30- 54- (4-5.0.1 (Reorganized Ch.)): Reject
The successful tests involved a standard wet pipe sprinkler system SUBMrlWER: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
having a density of 0.19 gallons per minute per square foot (gpm/sq RECOMMENDATION: 1. Change "separate, detached buildin,~s"
ft), representative of the density associated with the Ordinary Hazard to "separate buildings detached by a minimum of 100 ft (30 m).'
- Group 2 design curve included in NFPA 13, Standard for the 2. Change "if approved" to "if approved by authority having
Installation of Sprinkler Systems, 1989 edition; and a 0.21 gpm/sq ft jurisdiction. ~
design density, representing densities associated with extra Hazard- S~ANTIATION: 1. The Code does not specify what is
Group 1, and Ordinary Hazard - Group 3 curves, respectively, per considered to be adequate detachment without needing fire walls
NFPA 13, 1989 edition. (or partitions) or protection for exposures.
It should be noted that the hazard classifications and associated 2. The Codes does not specify who can approve use of 2 hr fire
densities have been modified in the 1991 edition of NFPA 13. The partition in lieu of 4-hr fire wall.
classification of Ordinary Hazard - Group 3 has been eliminated and C O ~ ACTION: Reject.
the densities/areas of application for the remaining Ordinary COI~,LMrrl~.E STATEMENT: The subject of the submltter's
Hazard and Extra Hazard classifications have been slightly modified. proposal is within the scope of NFPA 231. The submitter should
Nevertheless, the densities utilized in the fire test program are the direct a proposal to NFPA 231.
bases for the conclusion t h a t a standard wet pipe sprinkler system,
designed for a density of 0.19 gpm/sq ft over the most remove 1,500
sq ft area for retail display areas, and designed for a density of 0.21 (Log # 53)
gpm/sq ft over the most remote 1~00 sq ft area for storage areas, 30- 55 - (4-5.6.1): Reject
will provide adequate protection for many typical wholesale and SUBMITTER: Gene A. Hemmerling, American Metal Door Co.,
retail occupancies. There was no evidence tliat the fire would In~
extend beyond the area involving the pool fire ignitor. Had the RECOMMENDATION: Revise second sentence to read as follows:
flammable liquid storage involved a larger storage area, the test UEach opening in a fire wall shall be protected with an auto-matic-
results would have been identical. dosing, hsted 4-hr fire door... ~
In summary, SUBSTANTIATION: Underwriters Lab and Factory Mutual both
1. A standard wet-pipe sprinkler system was effective in controlling have tested horizontally sliding fire doors for four hours and have
flammable liquid fires in a retail sales area having a flammable liquid approved them. Since you now can have a door with the same rating
storage density of 3.20 gallons per sc1 ft, and in storage areas having a as the wall, there is not any need to have a door of lesser rating
flammable liquid storage density of 12.6 gallons per sq ft. covering the opening.
This finding is based on the following assumptions: COMM]ITrggACTION: Reject.
- The sprinkler system disch/a/rge2density is 0.19 gmp/ft2 or higher COMMITTEE STATEblENT: This proposal is rejected for the same
for the sales area and 0.21 g p m / f t or higher for the storage area. reason as was Item 2 of Proposal 30-26 CLog #18).
The 0.19 gpm/ft2 discharge density was used with uncartoned
flammable liquids.
- Class IB flammable liquids are packaged in either metal five
gallon tight-head containers with plastic pour spouts or metal one- 4-5 # 68)
(Lo~;~-
gallon W-Style" containers. 30- 56 - (4-5.6.3 Exception (New)) ( .2.3 of Proposal 30-18 ( ~
- The storage array represents a typical retail sales display area #45)): Reject
using metal shelving. SUBMrrl"ER: Joseph L. Scheffey, American Iron and Steel Institute
- The ceiling height is 18 ft above the floor. RECOMMENDATION: Add an exception at the e n d of 4-5.6.3:
- Palletized storage heights in the storage area do not exceed 4 ft Exception: Class IB, IC, and II liquids stored in 5-gallon or less
1 / 2 in. metal containers may be stored up to 12 ft in height as provided in
2. There was no evidence that spread of fire would exceed the area Appendix D, Table D-4-6.2.2 when protected by foam-water
involving the pool fire ignitor. Therefore, had the flammable liquid sprinklers. The quantifies of Class IB and IC liquids may be
storage involved a larger storage area, the test results would have increased up to 1375 gal (5204 L).
been identical. SUBSTANTIATION: See substantiation for companion proposal to
3. Sprinkler systems are capable of controlling fires in retail add Table D-4-6.2.2.
flammable liquid sales and storage areas meeting the above COMMrrITJg ACTION: Reject.
parameters, without the need for floor drainage systems. COMMrrlT, E STATEMENT: The Committee notes that the
4 . Industry loss experience has been minor. information in Appendix D is advisory, and never was intended to be
NOTE: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA mandatory. The submitter's proposal would make the Appendix
Headquarter. mandatory.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The CommiRee feels that there is
insufficient fire test data to substantiate the proposal. However, the (Log # 13)
Committee is aware of additional fire tests that are now being 30-57 - (4-5.0.4) (4-5.2.4 in Proposal 30-18 (Log#45)): Reject
planned and will consider any public comment resulting therefrom. SUBMITIgR: Thomas Lentz, Seattle, WA
RECOMMENDATION: Suggest the term "Flastics" be used for
flammable liquids in plastic containers and "clastics" be used for
(Log # 81) combustible liquids in plastic containers. Both of these items are
30-53- (4-5.5.2): Reject hot issues at the present time.
S U B M r r r E I ~ David G. Tabar, The Sherwin-W'dliams Company SUBSTANTIATION: None.
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: COMMITrF.J~ ACTION: ReJect.
4-5.5.2 The aggregate quantity of additional stock in areas not COMM]rrrEE STATEMENT: This does not represent accepted
accessible to the public shall r.-t..~......i" ~.../s,~a~.~ ..." :~..;....~£~. , terminology.
..... IJ I... +.. • .e.t _ _,. , ., L,, o^ _

3,1
 N F P A 30 ~ A93 TCR

(Log # 41) of wall."

30-58- (4-5.6.4) (4-5.2.4 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Accept SUBSTANTIATION: Underwriters Laboratories and Factory
SUBMITIT.~ Russell.]. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation Mutual both have tested horizontally sliding fire doors for four
RECOMMENDATION." Delete effective date. hours and have approved them. Since you now can have a door with
SUIK~TANTIATION: Effective date haspassed. This is editorial. the same rating as the wall, there is not any need to have two (2)
COMMrlTEEACTION: Accept. Already done in Proposal 30-18 doors of lesser rating covering the opening.
(Log #45). C O M M r r r E E ACTION: Reject.
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: This proposal is rejected for the same
reason as for Item 2 of Proposal 30-26 (Log #18).
(Log # 42)
30- 59 - (4-5.6.4 (Reorganized Ch.)) (4-5.2.4 in Proposal 30-18 (LOg
#45))'. Reject
SUBMrI'ITIt: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation (Log # 55)
RECOMMENDATION: At the end of the fn'st sentence of Excep- 30- 63 - (4-5.7.3) (4-4.2.2 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Reject
tion No. 2, add "and if the warehouse is provided with automatic • SUBMITI"ER: Gene A. Hemmerling, American Metal Door Co.,
tection." Inc.
ON: This clarifies that sprinklers are needed when RECOMMENDATION: Revise last half of section as follows:
using listed packaging systems in general purpose warehouses. ..."upon, the exposing wall shall have a fire resistance rating of 4 hr
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. with each opening protected with a listed 4-hr fire door."
COMMrITEE STATEMENT: This issue is addressed in Subsection SUBSTANTIATION: Underwriters Laboratories and Factory
4-5.2.3 of rewrite draft. Mutual both have tested horizontally sliding fire doors for four
hours and have approved them. Since you now can have a door with
the same rating as the wall, there is not any need to have two (2)
(Log # 82)
30-60- (4-5.6.4) (4-5.2.4 in Proposal 30-18 (LOg #45)): Reject doors of lesser rating covering the opening.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
S U B M I T r E ~ David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company COMMrlTEE STATEMENT: The proposal is rejected for the same
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
4-5.6.4 Liquids in Plastic Containers. Effective September 1, 1991, reason as for Item 2 of Proposal 30-26 (Log #18).
Class II and Class II liquids in plastic containers shall not be stored
in general-purpose warehouses, but shall be stored in separate inside
rooms ..; l:q..:d . ~ c i , . . ~ - ~ in accordance with Section 4 4 or 4-5.7,
as applicable. (Log # 5fi)
SUBSTANTIATION: A small pool fire exposure against a "listed" 30- 64 - (4-5.7.4(a)) (4-4.2.2 in Proposal 30-18 (Log#45)): Reject
packaging system involving class I or II liquids in plastic containers SUBMITI'ER: Gene A. Hemmerling, American Metal Door Co.,
will bring down the liquid warehouse. See proposed appendix F_,4- Inc.
fi(b) (5) 1991 Fire Tests, involving one gallon (3.8 L) containers of RECOMMENDATION: Revise first sentence:
mineral spirits (Class II liquid) in a listed fire retardant packaging "(a) Normally dosed, listed 4-hr fire door on one side of wall"
SUBb~ANTIATION: Underwriters Lab. and Factory Mutual both
~ em.
MM1TrEE ACTION: Reject. have tested horizontally sliding fire doors for four hours and have
COMMITYEE STATEMENT: This proposal is rejected for the same approved them. Since you now can have a door with the same rating
as the wall, there is no need to have (2) doors of lesser rating
reason as for Proposal 30-52 (Log #80). covering the opening.
COMMITYEE AC'FION: Reject.
COMMITI3gE STATEMENT: Thisproposal is rejected for the same
(Log # 83) reason as for Item 2 of Proposal 30-26 (Log #18).
30- 61 - (4-5.6.4 Exception No. 2) (4-5.2.4, Exception No. 2, in
Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Reject
SI.IB~: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-WiUiams Company
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: (Log # 49)
Exception No. 2: 30- 65 - (4-5.7.9) (4-4.3.7 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Accept in
(a_) Class I and II liquids in plastic containers may be stored in a Principle
general purpose warehouse if the packaging systems are listed and SUBMI'ITER: D. L. Blomquist, API
labeled for use with these materials. Other provisions of 4-5.6 shall RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
appJly. 4-5.7.9 Inside storage of empty or idle combustible pallet storage
(b) The testing laboratory shall provide the distinctive labeling: shall be limited to a maximum pile size of 2500 ft2 (232 m2) and to
a maximum storage height of 6 ft (1.8 m) in unprotected ware-
houses and 10 ft (3.0 m) in protected warehouses. Idle pallet
GENERAL PURPOSE WAREHOUSE storage shall be separated from liquids by at least 8 ft (2.4 m) wide
aisles. However, pallet storage in accordance with NFPA 231,
Standard for General Storage, shall be acceptable.
accompanied by the testing laboratory labelmark on every packaging SUBSTANTIATION: 4-5.7.9 This proposal allows facilities to take
system. On cartons, the letterin~ shall be i / 2 in. (.3 a n ) hi~h: on advantage of improvements in fire extinguishingagents and
containers~ when such containers are listed~ lettering shall be 1 / 4 in. techniques to store idle pallets up to 10 feet high versus 6 feet high
(0.6 cm) high. for unprotected locations. Indoor idle pallet storage is particularly
SUBSTANTIATION: Manufacturers, distributors and retailers are important in locales where inclement weather may damage the
misled and confused regarding the acceptability of Glass I and II pallets or lower the quality of the products to be placed on the
liquids in plastic containers when such containers or systems are pallets. Therefore, the pallets must be stored inside in sufficient
listed for use within general purpose warehouses and end up within quantities to keep pace with the packaging facility and allow
liquid warehouses or "hyperstore" occupancies. sufficient time for the pallets to dry.
Since manufacturers and fillers have no control over their COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Principle. Revise 4-5.7.9 (4-4.3.7
customer's distribution chain, listed packaging systems will end up in in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)) to read:
environments outside of their intended use. Therefore, an "Storage of empty or idle combustible pallets inside an unprotected
improved labelmark will provide needed information to distributors, liquid ~ e h o u s e shall be limited to a maximum pile size of 2500 sq
retailers, insurance carriers and the local authorities having ft (232 m ) and to a maximum storage height of 6 ft (1.8 m).
"urisdiction, as to the roduct's intended storage occupancy. Storage of empty or idle combustible pallets inside a protected
liquid warehouse shall comply with NFPA 231, Standard for General
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The labeling of containers is the Storage. Pallet storage shallbe separated from liquid storage by
responsibility of the listing agency. aisles that are at least 8 ft (2.4 m) wide."
COMMrlTEE STATEMENT: The Committee's version of the
Suhmitter's proposal is primarily an editorial revision, except that
(Log # 54) the Committee feels that the guidance in NFPA 231 is more
30- 62 - (4-5.7.1) (4-4.2.3 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Reject appropriate for protected warehouses.
SLIB~: Gene A. Hemmerling, American Metal Door Co.,
Inc~
RECOMMENDATION: Add to e n d of first sentence:
..."listed 3-hr (A) fire doors or one (1) 4-hour fire door on one side

34
 N F P A 30 - - A93 T C R

(Log # 50)`/ COMMITIT, EACTION: Accept in principle by means of action on

30- 66 - (4-5.7.12) (4-4.3.3/4-4.3.4 in Proposal 30-18 (LOg #45)):
Accept in Principle • The concerns of the submitter have
SUBMrrrER: D . L . Blomquist, API been addressed in the Committee's action on Proposal 30-32 (Log
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: #23).
4-5.7.12 Solid pile and palletized storage shall be arranged so that
piles are separated from each other by at least a 4 ft (1.2 m). Aisles
shall be provided so that no container or tank is more than 20 ft (6.0
m) from an aisle. Where unprotected storage on racks exists as (Log # 86)
permitted in this code, a minimum 411 (1.2 m) wide aisle shall be 30- 68 - (4-5.7.15 (New)): Reject
provided between adjacent racky and any adjacent storage of liquids. S U B ~ David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company
Main aisles shall be a minimum of 8 ft (2.4 m) wide, and access shall RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows:
be maintained to all doors required for egress. 4-5.7.15 the total aggregate containment capacity for new liquid
Add: warehouses shall be based upon a waterflow duration of no less than
Exception: Class III liquids and Class I and li liquids in listed 1 / 2 hour.
vacka~ng systems maybe stored so no container or tank is more SUBSTANTIATION: Containment duration must be established, as
than 20 ft (6.0 m) from an aisle. - at some point in time - a sprinkler system may need to be shut off to
SUBSTANTIATION: Many protected storage rack systems are prevent potential environmental contamination, when sprinklers are
designed without aisles or minimum aisle. This clarifies the aisle used to protect hazardous materials.
requirements for unprotected rack storage to provide separation COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
and egress during emergencies. COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee's action on Proposal
COMM1TrEEACTION: Accept in Principle. 30-32 (Log #23) deals with this subject. The Committee further feels
Revise second sentence of 4-4.3.4 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45) to that the containment capacity criteria will vary, depending on the
read "Aisles shall be provided so that no container or portable tank expected duration of sprinkler discharge. It may need to be greater
is more than 20 ft (6 m) from an aisle." than 1 / 2 hour.
Revise first sentence of 4-4.3.3 to read ~Where rack storage
exists...between adjacent rack sections and any adjacent storage of
II~,,I,4~ " (Log # 71)
C - ~ ~ STATEMENT: The Committee feels that the 30- 69- (4-5.7.15 (New)): Accept in Principle
increase from 12 ft to 20 ft should be applicable to all storage SUBMrITER: Brian Bender, ICl Spedalties
situations. RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows:
4-5.7.15 For liquid warehouses provided with automatic AFFF
sprinkler protection installed as per table D-4-6.2.1 or proposed
table D-4-6.2.2, drainage shall not be required. Curbs or ramps shall
(Log # 85) be provided to prevent the flow of liquids under emergency
30- 67 - (4-5.7.14) (4-4.2.8 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Accept in conditions into any adjacent fire area.
Principle SUBSTANTIATION: Foam water sprinkler systems have been
SUBMITrER: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-W'dliams Company known to be effective protective systems for the control of flammable
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: liquid fires for many years. Recent tests conducted at Factory Mutual
"For new liquid warehouses, where automatic sprinkler protection and at Underwriters Laboratories (as a part of the National Fire
is provided, curbs, ramvs, scuppers, special drains or other suitable Protection Association's International Foam Water Research
means shall be provided to prevent the flow of liquids, under Project), have demonstrated that automatic closed head AFFF foam
emergency conditions into adjacent building areas or to the mound. water systems are particularly effective for the suppression of
flammable liquid spill fires (when the spill has collected on the
systems, when if used, shall have sufficient capacity to carry off floor). By providing an aqueous film or polymeric membrane over
expected discharge of water from fire protection systems and hose the liquidsurface, foam can prevent the spread of fire (carried by
strealns. the fire fighting media) typically assodated with conventional water
SUBSTANTIATION: Recent fire test data has established the value spray systems.
of properly designed water-only or foam-water sprinkler systems, Section 45.7.14 does not currently address foam water systems.
using spill ignitors on c a r t o n e d a n d uncartoned metal containers of However, common industry practice is to eliminate the installation
flammable liquids. In tests conducted at Underwriters Laboratories of drainage systems when foam water systems are provided.
(see proposed new Appendix E (4) 1991 Fire Tests), fuel spread was The provision, of curbs or ramps, at openings into adjacent, fire
controlled by the effect of: (a) a match of limited container storage areas provides a safety factor m the event of foam system failure. It
height to ceiling sprinkler densities; (b) the cooling effect of ceiling also facilitates buildup of the foam blanket in the fire area of
water-only sprinklers to the packaged containers of flammable concern.
liquids; and (c) the ability o f container vent devices to relieve A copy of test results associated with the NFPRF's International
internal container pressure; additionally, in the case of foam-water Foam Water Research Project is being sent to the Committee under
sprinkler systems (see proposed new Appendix E (3) Foam-Water cuver-
Fire Tests); (d) the suppression characteristics of aqueous film- ACTION: Accept in principle by means of the action
forming foam and its polymeric membraneprovided substantial on Proposal 50-32 (Log #23).
"knock-down" and suppression of the floor fire, while the water- COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The concerns of the submitter are
component of the foam-water solution provided suffident cooling of addressed by the Committee in Proposal 30-26 (Log #18).
the storage arrangement to prevent fire spread beyond the initially
involved pallet loads of flammable liquids.
This recommended change -while requiring some form of
containment or drainage - is more "performance-oriented." The (Log # 87)
author believes that any one specific method of establishing 30- 70 - (4-5.7.16 (New)): Reject
containment requirements for liquid warehouse will not be the best SUBMITrER: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company
course of action for all liquid warehouses...that in many cases RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows:
elaborate drainage systems, with a labyrinth of minimum 36 in. 4-5.7.16 In liquid warehouses where powered industrial trucks are
diameter "sewer pipes" feeding each sprinkler design area, subse- used to move palletized flammable liquids, such vehicles shall be
quently to remote impoinding areas, represents very significant Type EE, DY, or EX. (See NFPA 505, Firesafety Standard for
capital costs, which may be impossible for some companies to owered Industrial Trucks Including Type Designations, Areas of
absorb. Further, many engineers do not agree upon how to design Use, Maintenance, and Operation.)
such a system. Without extensive test data, it is difficult to see how SUBSTANTIATION: The Section 4-7 Fire Control, Paragraph 7.5
any one method could be established. Rather, as a bottom line, reference to NFPA 505 does not go far enough in establishing a
runoff- if it is to occur in an "out of control" liquid warehouse fire - necessary minimum fire-safety standard. The existing "reference" to
m u s t be subsequently contained one way or another. Due to NFPA 505 allows any authority having jurisdiction to establish that a
environmental considerations, where it is contained should be the "Class I, Group D, Division 2" atmosphere (e.g.), does not exist
prerogative of the owner-operator. "The adjacent building area" under NFPA 70, National Electrical Code, and therefore, EE, DYor
criteria clarifies what was heretofore vague, and brings the contain- EX powered industrial trucks would not often be ~ It is
ment provisions for liquid warehouses into correlation with 4-4.2 necessary to clarify that, while the electrical classification of a liquid
Cutoff Rooms and Attached Buildings which also speaks of "...adja- warehouse in many areas may be "ordinary" or "unclassified," the
cent building areas." Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code should require powered
industrial trucks to be Type EE,DYor EX. Overall fire safety would

35
 N F P A 30 ~ A93 TCR

be improved by minimizing (though not fully eliminating) the SUBSTANTIATION: The proposed comment directs the reader to
likelihood of a resulting fire under an accidental spill situation, due additional information provided in the appendix. (See also D.C.
to the "sealed and gasketed," "temperature limiting," and other Tabar Proposal and Substantiation for Appendix D, Table D-4-6.2.2,
safety features provided by the noted Types. The current require- "Automatic AFFF Sprinkler Protection Requirements for Solid Pile
ments of NFPA 30 for liquid warehouses continue to permit "less- and Palletized Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids in
safe" UL listed or FM approved powered industrial truck (E, D, LP, Metal Containers of 5 Gal Capacity or Less.")
KS, DS, LPG, e.g.) to be used in facilities which handle extensive COMMITrEEACTION: Accept in Principle by means of action on
quantities of Class I flammable liquids. Proposal 30-74 (Log #51).
COMM1TIT.,E ACTION: Reject. COMMITTEE STATEMENT: See Proposal 30-74 (Log #51).
C O ~ STATEMENT: This issue is already addressed in
NFPA 30-1990, subsection 4-7.5 (48.9 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)).
• (Log # 51)
30- 74 - (4-6.1.1) (4-4.4.1in Proposal 30-18 (Log#45)): Accept in
(Log # 88) Principle
30- 71 - (4-5.7.17 (New)): Reject S U B M r r r E R : D. L. Blomquist, API
SUBM1TrER: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Wiliiams Company RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows: 4-6.1.1 Other quantitiesand arrangements such as
4-5.7.17 Liquids in Plastic Containers. warehouses may be used where suitablyprotected and approved by
(a) Class I and Class II liquids in plastic containers shall not be the authority having jurisdiction.
stored in liquid warehouses. S U B S T A N T I A T I O N : This change specificallyincludes high rise
(b) Packaging systems of Class I and II liquids in plastic containers warehouses which arc typicallyautomatic and unmanned. The
which are listed and labeled for intended use within a general specificdesign and fireprotection included in these types of
purpose warehouse shall not be considered an acceptable packaging facilitiesshould be reviewed on an individual basiswith the authority
system for use within a liquid warehouse. having jurisdiction.
Exception: Class I a n d l I liquids in plastic containers shall be COMMITrEEACTION: Accept in Principle.
permitted to be stored in an unprotected liquid warehouse which A d d an appendix statement to 4-4.4.1of Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)
conforms to the provisions of 4-~5.7Liquid Warehouses, provided to read:
that such storage is acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction. "Other arrangements may include, but are not limited to, increases
SUBSTANTIATION: 1. A fire test conducted under an 18 ft ceiling in pile height, pile size, or maximum storage quantity, or use of
failed at Underwriters laboratories (1991), which involved a 5gal multiple-row racks, or use of hlgh-rise warehouses."
spill exposure against 2 high cartons of a "listed" Class II liquid in 1 COMMITI'EE STATEMENT: The proposed Appendix statement is
gal plastic containers involving a fire-retardant packaging system (see more comprehensive.
Proposed Appendix F_M-6(b)(5), 1991 Fire Tests.)
2. A $50,000,000+ liquid warehouse fire loss resulted from a
flammable liquid spill exposure to flammable liquids in plastic
containers. An acceptable, safe packaging system or container has (Log # 43)
not been developed - nor has an appropriate fire test protocol - for 30- 75 - (48.2.1 and 48.2.2 (Reorganized ch.)): Accept
the storage of Class I and Ii liquids in plastic containers or "packag- SuBMrlq'ER: RussellJ. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
ing systems" for use within liquid warehouses. RECOMMENDATION: 1. Combine two sections to read as follows:
3. An alterhative fire test protocol involving (perhaps) a small 48.2.1 Other systems such as automatic foam-water systems,
flammable liquid pool,exposure to the container andpackaging automatic water-spray systems, or other combinations of systems may
system is considered necessary to qualify Oass I and Ii liquids in be considered acceptable if approved by the authority having
plastic containers for liquid warehouses, and subsequently : jurisdiction. Such systems shall be designed and installed in
"hyperstores" - where stored/displayed quantities are contained accordance with the appropriate NFPA standard for the type of
within and outside of the carton. system selected. (For additional information, see Appendix'" D.)
4. The primary purpose of this proposal is to prevent the likeli- 2. Renumber 4-8.2.3 to 48.2.2.
hood of future large-scale losses, while encouraging promulgation of SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial.
an alternative (more aggressive) fire test protocol for Class I and II COMMITrEEACTION: Accept. Changes to made to text of
liquids in plastic containers stored/displayed occupancies in other Proposal 30-18 (Log #45) ).
than general purpose warehouses.
COMMITrEE ACTION: Reject.
COMMrITEE STATEMENT: The Committee does not feel that the
limited test data available is sufficient justification for prohibiting (Log # 44)
plasfc containers. 30- 76 - (4-8.5 (Reorganized Ch.)): Accept in Principle
SUBMITrER: Russell.]. Kerlin, Dow Coming Corporation
RECOMMENDATION: Change "general purpose and liquid
(Log # 77) warehouses" to "liquid storage areas."
30- 72 - (Table 4-6.1(a)) (Table 4-4.4.1(b) in Proposal 30-18 (Log SUBSTANTIATION: This requirement is valid for all protected
#45)): Accept
SU'BMrITER: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williarns Company ON: Accept in Principle. In 4-8.5 of Proposal
RECOMMENDATION: Revise first asterisked footnote to Table 30-18 (Log #45), change the phrase "general purpose and liquid
4-6.1 (a) (Table 4-4.4.1 (b) in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)) as follows: warehouses" to read:
"*These height limitations maybe increased to 10 ft for containers "in protected general purpose warehouses and protected liquid
of 5 gal or less in capacity. See also ~ . " storage areas."
SUBSTANTIATION: Proposed (Appendix) Table D-4-6.2.2 C O M M I T I ~ . STATEMENT: The Committee's proposed language
establishes maximum storage heights for solid pile and palletized IS more precise.
storage Of flammable and combustible liquids in metal containers of
five gallon capacity or less, under automatic AFFF sprinkler systems,
following recent fire testing conducted by the National Fire (Log # 65)
Protection Research Foundation at Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. 30- 77 - (4-9.2.2): Reject
and the Factory Mutual Research Center's fire test facilities. S U B M I T r E R : Kenneth Wilkins, Safety Storage, Inc.
COMMITYEE ACTION: Accept. RECOMMENDATION: Revise to read as follows:
"Electricalwiring and allelectricalequipment located inside the
lockers shall be rated for Class I,Division I, hazardous locationsin
accordance with the National ElectricalCode, NFPA-70."
(Log # 89) S U B S T A N T I A T I O N : To be consistantwith:
30- 73 - (4-0.1.1) (44.4.1 in Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)): Accept in (I) Factory Mutual (FM) Research's approval Standard for
Principle Flammable and Combustible Liquid Storage Buildings (class 6049),
SUBMITrER: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Wiliiams Company Section 3.1.4which states: "Allelectricalequipment within the
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text of 4-4.4.1 in Proposal 30-18 (Log building shall be rated for Class I,Division I serviceas defined by
#45) as follows: the National ElectricalCode, NFPA-70...";and
"Other quantities and arrangements may be used where suitably (2) The Standard Flrc Prevention Code, 1991 Edition, Section
protected and approved by the authority having jurisdiction. (For 904.5.5 which states: Electricalwiring and equipment located in
additional information, see Appendix D.)" inside storage and handling rooms shallbe approved for Class I,

36
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

Division 1 hazardous locations in accordance with the Electrical

Code. 30- 78 - (4-9.2.4): Reject (Log # 66)
NOTE: Supporting material is available for review at NFPA SUBMrrrER: Kenneth Wilkins, Safety Storage, Inc.
Headquarters. ~MMENDATION: Add the following after the first sentence in
COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject. Section 4-9.2.4:
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The submitter's proposed language %.Lockers shall be equipped with a mechanical exhaust ventilation
assumes that dispensing will be carried out under normal opera- system when the storage quantities of flammable or combustible
tions. The majority of situations will involve storage only. If the liquids exceed the exempt amounts listed in Table 4-9.2.4. The
particular situation at hand involves storage only of closed contain- system shall provide at least one cubic foot per minute of exhaust
ers, then Division I electrical dassilication is not justified. per square foot of floor area (1 m 3 per rain per 3 m2)." (Please see
following proposed Table 4-9.2.4.)

Table 4-9.2.4
Exempt Amounu of Flammable and Combustible Liquids (Gallons)
1
Combination
IA IB IC ~ II nL~
IIIB
Liquids stored in 30 60 90 120 120 33O
13200
Lockers Unprotected
by Automatic Fire
Protection System and
not in Safety Cans
Liquids stored in 60 120 120 240 240 660
26400
Lockers Unprotected
by Automatic Fire
Protection System
and in Safety Cans
Liquids stored in 60 120 180 240 240 660
No Limit
Lockers Protected
by Automatic Fire 2
ProtectionSystem
and not in Safety
Cans
Liquids stored in 120 240 360 480 480 1320
N o Limit
Lockers protected
by Automatic Fire 2
Protection System
and in Safety Cans
1
2 Containing not more than the exempt amounts of Class IA, IB, or IC Flammable Liquids
Fire Protection System shall be Sprinkler, Water; Spray, Carbon Dioxide, Dry Chemical, Halon, or Other Approved System.

SUBSTANTIATION: Mechanical exhaust ventilation is one of the (Log # 67)

engineering controls required by the three model building and fire 30-79- (4-9.3.4.4 (New)): Reject
prevention codes when t h e storage of flammable or combustible S U B M r l T E ~ Kenneth Wilkins, Safety Storage, Inc.
liquids exceed the exempt amounts listed in these codes. This RECOMMENDATION: Add new paragraph 4-9.3.4.4 which reads:
proposal is intended to correlate the mechanical exhaust ventilation "Incompatible hazardous materials may be stored within the same
requirements with the following: lockered along with flammable or combustible liquids if they are
(1) Uniform Building Code (1991 Ed.) - Table No. 9-A and Section isolated by a noncombustible partition extending not less than 18
905(b) inches above and to the sides of the stored materials. When Class 3
(2) SUmdard Building Code (1991 Ed.) -Table 408.1.2B and or 4 oxidizers are stored within the same locker, however, they shall
Section 408.3.4 be separated from flammable or combustible fiquids by a partition
(3) Standard Fire Protection Code (1991 Ed.) -Table 2203.4.1A or wall that is not less than one-hour fire-resistive construction.
and Section 904.5.6 Required separations shall also include the locker's spill contain-
(4) Uniform Fire Code (1991 Edition) -Table No. 79.202-A, ment system (sump)."
Sections 79.203(g) and 80.301 (m) SUI~TANTIATION: Corrosive materials, oxidizers, etc., are
(5) BOCA Fire Prevention Code (BOCA's Ad Hoc Committee on currently being stored with flammable and combustible liquids
High Hazard Uses Recommendation for the 1993 Edition) -Table inside the same storage lockers. The Uniform Fire Code and
No. F-3000.5 Standard lru,e Prevention Code currently require the separation of
COMMITIT.,E ACTION: Reject. incompatable hazardous materials as indicated above. The BOCA
C O M M r r r ] ~ STATEMENT: The Committee notes that NFPA 30 Fire Prevention Code will be adopting the same criteriain 1993. In
historically has not recognized the concept of "exempt quantities. ~ order to be consistent with these codes, it is recommended that the
In addition, the Committee's opinion is that the exempt quantities proposed new paragraph be included. Please refer to the following
noted in the submitter's proposal are too great not to be subject to references:
Section 4-9 of NFPA 30. (Section 4-6 of Proposal 30-18 (Log #45)). 1) Uniform Fire Code (1991 Ed.) - Sections 80.301 (n) and
80.806(12)

$7
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

2) Standard Fire Prevention Code (1991 Ed.) - Sections 2203.1.13 5-5.20verpressure/Vacuum Protection. Tanks and equipment
and 2203.6.1.12 with vapor recovery or vapor processing systems shall have indepen-
3) BOCA Fire Prevention Code (BOCA's Ad Hoc Committee on dent venting protection for possible overpressure or vacuum
High Hazard Uses Recommendation for the 1993 Edition) -Sections conditions which may occur as a result of malfunction of the vapor
F-2301.4 and F-3601.2.7 recovery or vapor processing system. For tanks, this provision may
C O M M I T T E E A C T I O N : Reject. be satisfied by venting equipment provided to comply with 2-3.4 or
C O M M I T T E E STATEMENT: The Committee does not agree that 2-4.5, as applicable.
the intermingling of incompatible materials should be allowed. 5-5.3 Liquid Carryover Protection. Vapor recovery and vapor
NFPA 43A, Code fo Storage of Liquid and Solid Oxidizers, for processing systems that cannot adequately handle liquid shall be
example, prohibits such intermingled storage. (See also Proposal provided with a means to eliminate from the vapor collection system
30-84 (Log#l)) any liquid which carries over or condenses.
5-5.3.1" I f a liquid knock-out vessel is used in the vapor collection
system, it shall have means to verify the level and a high level sensor
which activates an alarm. For facilities not manned by company
(Log # 52) personnel during product transfer, the high level sensor shall
30- 80 - (5-4.1.4): Accept in Principle activate an orderly shutdown of the vapor recovery or vapor
SUBMrrrER: D. L. Hierman, Rhone-Poulenc processing systems and the liquid transfer into the vessel from which
R E C O M M E N D A T I O N : Revise text as follows: vapors are being recovered.
"rransferring liquids between containers, storage tanks, shipping 5-5.3.2 Vapor collection piping shall be designed to avoid trapped
vessels, and process vessels by pressure of gas is permitted only by liquid.
complying with all of the following: 5-5.$.3 Storage tanks on vapor processing or vapor recovery systems
a. controls, including pressure-relief devices, are provided to limit shall be protected by overfill protection in accordance with 2-10 or
the pressure so it cannot exceed the design pressure of the vessel, other appropriate method.
tank, container, and piping system. 5-5.3.4 Overfill protection of tank vehicles shall be in accordance
b. only inert gases can be used to transfer Class I and Class II with 54.4.1.10, 5-4.4.1.11, and 54.4.1.12.
liquids and Glass Ill liquids heated above their flash points." 5-5.4* Static. Vapor collection and vapor processing equipment
S U B S T A N T I A T I O N : Transferring liquids with pressure is a shall be protected against static electricity in accordance with 5-6.2.4.
common practice that does not create any additi%nal risk if controls 5-5.5* Spontaneous Ignition. Where there is the potential for
as described above are provided. In fact, transferring liquids with spontaneous ignition, precautions shall be taken either by design or
essure is often safer by eliminating potential leaks at a pump. written procedures to prevent ignition.
M M I T r E E A C T I O N : Accept in Principle. 5-5.6* Friction heat or Sparks from Mechanical Equipment.
Revise 5-4.1.4 to read: Mechanical equipment used to move vapors which are in the
"Transfer of liquids between vessels, containers, tanks, and piping flammable range shall be designed to prevent sparks or other
systems by means of air or inert gas pressure shall be permittedonly ignition sources under both normal and equipment malfunction
under all of the following conditions: conditions.
(a) The vessels, containers, tanks, and piping systems shall be 5-5.7* Flame Propagation. Where there is reasonable potential for
designed for such pressurized transfer and shall be capable of ignition of a vapor mixture in the flammable range, means shall be
withstanding the anticipated operating pressure. provided to stop the propagation of flame through the vapor
(b) Safety and operating controls, including pressure relief collection system. The means chosen shall be appropriate for the
devices, shall be provided to prevent overpressure of any part of the conditions under which it will be used.
system. 5-5.8 Explosion Protection. Where used, explosion protection
(c) Only inert gas shall be used to transfer Class I liquids and Class systems shall comply with NFPA 69.
II and Class III liquids that are heated above their flash points." 5-5.9 Vapor Release. Tank or equipment openings provided for
COMMITYEE STATEMENT: The revisions made by the Committee purposes of vapor recovery shall be protectedagainst possible vapor
better express the expanded scope of this requirement, as proposed release in accordance with 2-4.6.6, 2-5.4.9, 54.4.1.11 and 5-4.4.1.12.
by the submitter, a n d t h e Commitee's original intent. 5-5.10 Equipment Siting.
5-5.10.1 Vents on vapor processing systems shall be not less than 12
ft (3.6 m) above adjacent ground level, with outlets located and
directed so that flammable vapors will disperse to safe concenu'a-
(Log # 4) tions before reaching occupied areas or locations containing
30- 81 - (5-4.3.4): Reject P5otential ignition sources.
SUBM1TI'ER: J. W.Juergens, Federated Insurance -5.10.2 Vapor processing equipment and vents shall be located in
R E C O M M E N D A T I O N : Change wording after "not exceed" to read accordance with 5-3.1.
"a supply for one day with a maximum limit of the sum of (b), (c), 5-5.11 Other Safety Con siderations.
(d) and (e) below." 5-5.11.1 In order to minimize the potential for liquid spills or
S U B S T A N T I A T I O N : The present wording using the term "the vapor release, emergency shutdown systems shall be designed to fail
eater of" does not limit quantifies to a one day supply in cases of to a safe position in the event of loss of the utility system (i.e. air or
ted use. For example, a firm using 3 gal per day could either electricity) or equipment malfunction.
comply with (a) and have 3 gal of Oass IB liquids on hand, or 5-5.11.2" Electrical area classification shall be in accordance with
comply with (c) and have 240 gal. 5-3.5.
C O M M I T r E E A C T I O N : Reject. Additions to Appendix A:
C O M M I T T E E STATEMENT: The text as currently stated is exactly A-5-5.3.1 If the liquid knock-out vessel utilizes a pump for
as intended by the Committee. automatic liquid removal, consideration should be given to a low
level alarm and shutdown to avoid running the pump dry resulting
in a potential source of ignition.
A-5-5.4 The most recent edition of American Petroleum Institute
(Log # 58) Recommended Practice 2003, Protection Against Ignition Arising
30- 82 - (5-5 (New)): Accept Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray Currents, can be used as a
SUBMIT~: R. Bruce Harunan, American Petroleum Institute reference for protections against static ignition.
R E C O M M E N D A T I O N : Add new Section 5-5, existing Section 5-5 A-5-5.5 Spontaneous ignition may be a problem in:
would now become Section 5-6. - Facilities where pyrophoric deposits can accumulate from the
5-5 Vapor Recovery and Vapor Processing Systems. handling of oxygen-deficient vapors containing sulfur compounds or
5-5.1 General. This section applies to vapor recovery and vapor asphaltic materiaJs. When air is introduced int-o the system, the
processing systems where the vapor source operates at pressures ]5yrophoric materials can react resulting in potential ignition and
from vacuum up to and including I psig, and where there is a Ilre.
potential for vapor mixtures in the flammable range. Exceptions to - facilities which handle fluids in such a way that mixing of
this scope are as follows: hy~.. rgolic or otherwise incompatible materials may occur. Such
5-5.1.1 Marine Systems. This section does not apply to marine mixing could occur with fluids remaining in the vapor recovery
vapor recovery and vapor processing systems that comply with U.S. system from prior loading activities. -
Department of Transportation Regulations 33 CFR Pahs 154, 155, - fadlities handling oxygenated hydrocarbons in carbon absorp-
tion units. Higher heats of absorption for these types of vapors can
a n d 156, and 46 CFR Parts 30, 32, 35, and $9, administered by the .p.otentially lea~l to overheated carbon beds and increase the chance
United States Coast Guard. that an oxidation reaction can be initiated. (For further informa-
5-5.1.2 Service Station Systems. This section does not apply to tion, refer to American Petroleum Institute Report, An Engineering
service station vapor recovery and vapor processing systems that Analysis of the Effects of Oxygenated Fuels on "Marketing Vapor
comply with NFPA 30A. Recovery Equipment, September, 1990.)

38
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

A-5-5.0 Department of Transportation Coast Guard Regulation 33 Table A-4-5.5.1

CFR Part 154, Section 154.826(b), (c) and (d) can be used as a
reference for vapor mover designs which minimize the potential for Allowable Storage Amounts, Gallons per Sq Ft
ignition.
l
A-5-5.7 The potential for ignition in the vapor collection system,
needs to be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. i-B ~ H" Ii-~ Combination IBt IC, II,
If ignition occurs, flame propagation in piping systems containing &Ilia
vapor mixtures in the flammable range normally starts with low
speed burning (deflagration). As the flame moves through the Protected
piping, it accelerates and, within a short distance, can reach Basement 0 ~ ~ ~ ~ .1-
supersonic speeds (detonation). Initial low speed flame propagation Ground Floor ÷ ~ ~ f~ ~ 4--
can be stopped by flame arresters, liquid seals, or automatic fast- Other Floors "1- ~ ~ ~ ~ -1-
acting valve systems when designed, operated and tested within the
requirements of NFPA 69. Flame propagation can also be stopped Unprotected
for both deflagrations and detonations by use of detonation arresters Basement 0 i- -1- -1- -1- .1-
tested in accordance with U.S. Department of Transportation Coast Ground Floor -1- ~ ~ ~ ~
Guard Regulations 33 CFR Part 154, appendix A or other proce- Other Floors 0 "1- -1- -1- ,1- -1-
dures acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction, or automatic
fast-acting valve systems tested under the appropriate conditions.
A-5-5.11.2 Electrical enclosures which need to be opened
frequently for maintenance (i.e. enclosures housing vapor process-
ing system controls), have a higher potential for mechanical damage
which could render the enclosures unable to contain an explosion. v.~v.. . . . . . . - . ~ . . . . . . ~.. 7 , ~ y ~ . . . . . ~:. ~-;~ v , ~ ~ . . . . . . ~. . . .
SUBSTANTIATION: Vapor recovery and vapor processing have ow
become an integral part of many facilities which store and transport * Maximum quantities permitted may be increased from the
flammable liquids. Air quality regulations require vapor recovery or maximum 7,500 gal (~8,388 I) up to a maximum 15,000 gal (56B775
vapor processing for many marine terminals, and more states are I) where storage and display area are protected in accordance with
adopting regulations which include vapor recovery or vapor Tables D-4-6.~(a) through D-4-6.2(c), or Tables D-4-6.~.1 or D.4-5.2.2
processing for other types of facilities as well. Vapor recovery and except that Class IA liquids shall be limited to a maximum quantity
vapor processing systems can present a significantly higher level of • of 240 gal (908 I). (See 4-5.5.1)
risk to a facility if designed or operated incorrectly. By definition, SUBSTANTIATION: Table A-4-5.5.1, NFPA 30 presendy includes
these systemshandle vapors whmh may be in the flammable range. for information purposes only, allowable storage amounts in gallons
The primary concerns are the potential for ignition of vapors per sq ft for Class IA through IIIA flammable and combustible
internal to the system resulting in an internal explosion or detona- liquids. The table is related to the section of the code that addresses
tion, and the release and subsequent ignition of flammable liquids mercantile occupancies, retail stores, and other related accessible to
and vapor outside of the equipment. the public.
Guidance is needed in NFPA 30 on the basic safeguards needed in The supporting background material for the limits on liquid
the design and operation of vapor recovery and vapor processing volume cannot be substantiated by objective technical data and are
systems to mitigate the risks of release and fire. This guidance will considered arbitrary limits.
be of benefit to both users and approval agencies responsible for In September, 1991, a fire test was conducted at Underwriters
public safety. This section identifies these safeguards and, where Laboratories on behalf of a coalition of manufacturers and retailers
necessary, refers the user to other applicable sections of NFPA $0 or seeking further technical data on the protection of flammable
other NFPA standards. liquids. The flammable liquid was packaged in cartoned and
NFPA 30 is the primary standard used for the design and operation unca_rtoned metal containers and was arranged in a palletized array
of facilities which store, handle and use flammable and combustible and a retail display area. The tests were intended to explore the
liquids. Vapor recovery systems are generally used in conjunction effectiveness of a standard sprinkler system against a fire involving
with these types of fadlities. Consequently, it is appropriate that this commodity using a poo/fire ignition scenario.
guidance on vapor recovery and vapor processing be included in The flammable liouid storage amounts for the retail display area
NFPA 30. It is intended that this section apply to more types of test was 3.26 gal/ft2. This is 1.26 gal/ft2 over the limits presently
facilities than the "service stations, bulk plants, or terminals" written in Table A-4-5.5.1 (see Schirmer Engineering R e ~ r t entided
referred to in the existing definitions of vapor recovery and vapor "Class IB Flammable Liquid Sales and Storage Fire Tests dated
processing in NFPA 30. As a result the definitions have been October, 1991.)
changed to reflect the wider range of application. The test results show that a v o o l fire ignition scenarioolaced in a
Section 5-4 discusses liquid handling, transfer, and use. The simulated retail display area l~aving a storage amount oi~3.26 gal/ft2
proposed section on vapor recovery and vapor processing would and usin~ uncartoned metal containers was successfully controlled
appropriately follow as Section 5-5 and the existing Section 5-5, Fire without significant fuel contribution from the test commodity.
Prevention and Control, would now become Section 5-6. Where • A change to the portion of Table A-4-5.5.1 pertaining to protected
appropriate, additional explanatory sections have been added to area is waxranted based upon the results of the fire test and the
Appendix/L unfounded basis for the original limits of the table.
CO--ACTION: Accept. But, include the following Class IA liquids have been removed from the proposed table as this
editorial changes: commodity would be limited to a maximum quantity of 120 gallons
1. In 5-5.1, add "associated with liquid transfer or recovery of vapor by the proposed submitted on Section 4-5.5.1.
emissions" after the words "vapor processing systems." A change to the portion of Table A-4-5.5.1 pertaining to unpro-
Also, delete the second sentence. tected areas could then be justified as the table would then represent
2. Replace "5-5.1.1 Marine systems" with the words "Exception:" existing limits.
• Delete 5-5.1.2 entirely• C O M M r r r E E ACTION: Reject.
4. In 5-5.~.3, add the words "served by~ in place of the word.. "on." COMMITI'EE STATEMENT: This proposal is rejected for the same
5. In A-5-5.11.2, add the following second sentence "Additional reason as for Proposal 30-52 (Log #80).
inspection may be needed to ensure the integrity of the enclosure."
COMMITYEE STATEMENT: The delection of 5-5.1.2 is because
NFPA $0 does not address service stations. All other changes are
editorial in nature. (Log # 1)
to. 84 - (A-4-5.7.15 (New)): Accept in Principle
SUBMITYER: Richard Y. LeVine, CHEC Inc.
R E C O M M E N D A T I O N : Add new text as follows:
(Log # 59) A-4-5.7.15 Drums of flammable liquids a n d / o r liquefied gases with
30- 83 - (Table A-4-5.5.1): Reject NFPA 704 Health Hazard Ratings of 3 or 4 a n d / o r reactivity ratings
SUBMITIEI~ David P. Nugent, Schirmer Engineering Corporation of 2, 3 or 4 shall not be stored in liquid warehouses without
RECOMMENDATION: Revise table as follows: automatic sprinklers or automatic extinguishing systems approved by
the authority having jurisdiction.
Drums of flammable liquids a n d / o r liquefied gases with Reactivity
Ratings of $ or 4 shall be stored in dedicated warehouses suitably
detached on the basis of the quantity distance principal used for
explosive materials.

39
 NFPA 30 - - A93 TCR

explosive materials. - Distance from the Top of the Storage to the Sprinklers
SUBSTANTIATION: The indiscriminate mixing of ordinary - Storage Configuration:
flammable hazards with high toxic hazard material or high reactivity - Pile Size
materials which are also flammable liquids or flammable liquefied - Storage Height
gases is a practice that must eventually result in either a catastrophic Storage Method
release of toxic materials or catastrophic explosion. Safety minded - Flue Spaces
chemical companies do not do this on their own premises but - Type of Sprinklers
warehouses off-site and hazardous waste warehouses condone this - Temperature Rating
PcraCtice because there is nothing in NFPA 30 to prohibit i t - Response Time Index (RTI)
OMMITrEEACTION: Accept in Principle. Add an appendix - Orifice Size
item to 4-8.8 of Proposal 30-18 (Log #45) to read: These examples are not all inclusive and each installation should
"A-4-8.8 The indiscriminate mixed storage of materials that have a be designed using sound fire protection engineeringjudgement.
high toxicity or high reactivity hazard which are also flammable The parameters of the protection arrangements contained in the
liquids is a practice that might result in either a catastrophic release tables may be modified accordintiy.
of toxic materials or an explosion. (See also 1-1.4)." 2. Delete the first sentence ofl)-4-6.2(a).
Also delete the words "degree of 2 or higher" from 4-8.8. 3. Delete D-4-6.2.1 (b). Renumber 1)-4-6.2.1 (c) accordingly.
COMMrITEE STATEMENT: The Committee believes mandaiory 4. Add the following sentence, full capitals, below the title of each
rules will be impractical to enforce. The proposed Appendix table in Appendix D:
information should serve as adequate warning. "IMPORTANT: SEE THE CAUTION STATEMENT AT THE
BEGINNING OF THIS APPENDIX."
SUBSTANTIATION: The Committee feels that additional direction
is needed to ensure that an engineering evaluation is conducted,
recognizing the many variables that can affect each individual
30- 85 - (Appendix D): Accept installation so that appropriate protection is specified.
SUBMFrrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept
RECOMMENDATION: 1. Add new following text to the beginning
of Appendix D: /
x..__
"CAUTION: The following tables suggest sprinkler design
densitities that have been developed from limited fire testing and (Log # 60)
the application fo engineering judgement. There are many variables • 30- 86 - (Table D-4-6.2(a)): Accept in Principle
that should be considered in the application of these tables. SUBMITIY_.R: David P. Nugent, Schirmer Engineering Corporation
Examples of these variables include: RECOMMENDATION: Revise Table D-4-6.2(a) as follows:
- Ignition Scenario
- Properties of the Liquids
- Container Type and Size
- Packaging methods

Deleted:

Appendix D

Table D-4-6.2(a)

~ S i n nem~ 81~ mSb Ord. Mmhem b Strum Spe~dmJ d~

UquJd and &'r~eematt ~t a Temp. Temp. SpEi~ nenmd Win) Hem S t r e ~

;50

IC.°

&

11"

40
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

Added:

TABLE D-4.6.2(a)
Minimum
Minimum Duration
Class Container Size Density g p m / High Ord. Maximum Hose Stream Snrinkler &
Liquid and Arransement sqft Temp. Temp Spacing Demand (gpm) I'-['oseStream (2)

5gal or less, without cartons, 0.30 3000 5000 100 sq ft 750 v/

palletized or solid pile 2 hr

IA
5gal or less with cartons, 0.40 3000 5000 100sqR 750 f-"
palletized or solid pile

IB* 5 gal or less, without cartons, 0.30 3000 5000 100sqR 500

IC,* palletized or solid pile

&
II* 5gal or less with cartons, 0.40 3000 5000 lOOsq~ 500 2 hr
palletized or solid pile

The overhead sprinkle system in the test building, which utilized The second test, however, had a steady decline in the ceiling
286°F, 1 / 2 orifice sprinklers on a 10 ~ x 10 ft spacing was arranged temperature from the initial maximum temperature spike to
to discharge a density of 0.29 pgm/ftz. approximately 100°F at 6 min 30 sec where the malfunctioning foam
The sprinkler system was un~ible to control of the fire and after an ph-mp was turned on. The fire at this time was very limited and
initial temperature spike, recorded at the ceiling of 771°F at 28 sec, localized to a leaking 5 gallon container.
the ceiling temperature began to rise again and attained 1,0M°F at 4 These two tests illustrate the effect of the corrugated cardboard to
min 58 sec at which time the test center management aborted the the array in terms of fuel loading during a fire.
test. NFPA 50 does not differentiate between cartoned and uncartoned
Table 4-6.1 (a) states that Glass 1B liquids may be stored on the storage at the present time. The fire test essentially met the
ground floor u p to 6-1/2 ft high if protected. The test array requirements of NFPA 50 and the test was a failure. Had the array
mentioned in the above test had a storage height 6 ft 8 in. or 2 in. been larger, as expected in a warehouse ~ v i r o n m e n t , the fire would
hiTgaherthan allowed. have been more severe. The 0.30 g p m / f t sprinkler density should
hie D.4-6.2(a) states that for 1B liquids in 5gallon containers or be effective against un^cartoned commodity but a higher sprinkler
less, with/without cartons, palletized or solid P~e2should be density of 0.40gpm/ftz is warranted for cartoned commodity.
protected with a sprinkler density of 0.30 g p m / f t . This density is S~ANTIATION: In September, 1991, afire tests was conducted
0.01 gpm/ftz higher than the sprinkler density used in the above at Underwriters Laboratories involving the palletizeo storage o t
mentioned test. cartoned 1 gallon metal F-Style containers of heptane and 5 gallon
The recent foam-water fire tests conducted at Underwriters metal tighthead containers of heptane with plastic spouts. The
Laboratories for the NFPRF had a fire test where the foam was not height of this storage was 6 ft 8 in. and the storage arrangement was
proportioned into the sprinkler system until after 6 rain 30 sec. This a 2 x 2 array involving 8 pallet loads stacked 2 high. The ignitor
was test No. 8 and was a water only test up to 6 min 30 sec. (See consisted of a 10 gallon pool ignitor (see Sehirmer Engineering
Underwriters Laboratories draft report entitled "International Foam- report entitled Wire Tests Involving Class II Combustible Liquid in
Water Research Pr0ject-Task 3 Fire Tests," dated December 2, 1991.) Plastic Containers Using a F'ue Retardant Package Assembly and
This test involve the 8 ft high pallefized storage of 5 gallon Class I Flammable Liqmd in Metal Containers," dated November,
tighthead containers filled with heptane in a 2 x 2 array. This test 1991, Test B).
also used a 10 gallon p~ol ignitor and a sprinkler system discharge COMMITrEEACTION: Accept in Principle. Add a footnote to
density of 0.30 gpm/ftz. existing Table D-4-6.2(a) to read:
The differences between the above test and the first test mentioned "One test indicated that a sprinkler density of 0.30 gpm per sq ft
are: may not be sufficient for the protection of storage of cartons more
(a) Sprinkler system density 0.01 gpm/ft2 higher for second test. than one pallet high."
(b) No cardboard packing material on second test. COMMITrKE STATEMENT: The Committee is unwilling to
(c) Second test involves 5 ~ . o n containers only. implement the full proposal because there is no correlation for 0.40-
(d) Second test storage height was 16 inches higher than first test. density.
The difference in sprinkler density was considered minor and
would have no overall effect on this comparison.
As previously state, the first test involving the mixed storage of
cartoned 1 gallon metal F-Style containers of heptane and 5 gallon
tighthead containers of heptane stored to 6 t 8 in. was not con-
trolled by a sprinkler density of 0.29 g p m / f t .

41
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

(Log # 78)
30- 87 - (Table D-4-6.2.2 (New)): Accept
SUBMITrEI~ David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company
RECOMMENDATION: Add new table as follows:

Table D-4-6.2.2

Automatic AFFF Sprinkler Protection Requirements for Solid Pile and Pallefized
Storage of Flammable and Combustible Liquids in Metal Containers
of Five Gallon Capacity or Less

Water Foam
Maximum Supply Supply
Package Class Density Area Temp. Max. Orifice Height Hose Duration Duration
Twe ~ ~m/~S ftS ~ tft~ gain ~ tmin~

Gartoned IB,IC .40 2000 286°F 100sq 17/32 11 500 120 15

II ft/hd

Uncartoned IB,IC .30 2000 286°F 100 sq 1/2 or 17/32 12 500 120 15
II ft/hd

SUBSTANTIATION: Flammable and combustible liquids in liquid small (5 gallon and less) containers. The results of the FMRC tests
warehouses are currently permitted to be stored on pallets a n d i n were then used to plan fire tests involving a larger series of palletized
solid piles in accordance with Table 4-6.1 (a). Recommended arrays. These tests were conducted at Underwriters laboratories, Inc.
p r o t e c t i o n. . by automatic
. . sprinklers using water as the suppression (UL) at their fire test facility in Northbrook, IL, with a nominal 27 ft
agent is detailed m Appendix D, Table 4-6.2(a). high ceiling. Tests were planned so that increasing quantities and
Flammable liquid warehouse fires in the United States and Europe arrays were evaluated as a function of foam application rate and
have raised concerns regarding the measure of fire control provided sprinkler orifice. Mixed commodities simulated by cardboard
for stored flammable liquids when protected by a variety sprinkler cartons were also introduced. In order to develop specific design
system designs. As a result, the International Foam-Water Sprinkler criteria, the following constants were maintained during the UL
Research Project was established u n d e r guidance from the National tests:
Fire Protection Research Foundation (NFPRF). The Project was - Class IB flammable liquid (heptane);
funded and guided by a Technical Advisory Committee (TAC) Six percent alcohol-type AFFF proportioned at 3 percent;
consisting of representative~ from industry, suppliers, insurers, Deflector plate, 286°F, 400 RTI, non-aspirated sprinklers on a I0
vendors, testing laboratories, and NFPA techmcal committees. A f t x 10 ft spacmg;
Research Team consisting of the TAC Chairperson, Factory Mutual - A 1Ogallon heptane "spill," intended to simulate fuel spills of the
Research Corporation, Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Schirmer magnitude expected in a flammable liquid warehouse, e.g., leak/
Engineering Corporation, and the NFPRF proposed specific test breach of two five-gallon containers;
protocol after receiving input from the TAC. The goals of the - One-gallon F-Style (oblong) metal containers stored in cardboard
Project were: cartons on pallets;
- To improve fire safety in flammable liquid warehouses; - Five-gallon "tight-head" metal containers stored on pallets; and
- To establish reasonable loss limitation objectives; - Five-gallon plastic containers stored on pallets.
- To minimize the cost of fire suppression and waste disposal from The design guidance in proposed Table D4-6.2.2 represents the
fire fighting operations; results of the testing. When appropriately protected by the closed-
- To broaden storage options available for stodng flammable head foam-water sprinkler system, the metal containers used for
liquids; and these tests demonstrated their ability to vent or otherwise prevent
- To prevent boiling liquid expanding vapor explosions. container rupture until the fire was suppressed. The fire tests
These goals were to be accomplished by documenting the involving the five-gallon plastic containers and the ten-gaUon
performance of closed-head foam-water sprinkler systems, using heptane iginition scenario, generated results where more than 50
realistic flammable liquid floor fires and real-world storage sce- percent of the fuel m the test array was consumed and at least ten
narios, and by providing a design basis and minimum design sprinklers operated. Additional testing of plastic containers was
parameters for foam-water sprinkler systems. abandoned. Metal one-gallon containers were breached in only one
A substantial portion of these objectives have not been met. test, where storage height exceeded the proposed limits. This was
Specifically, a literature search, range finding fire tests, and apparently caused by a loss of storage stack integrity which created a
palletized fire tests have been conducted. This proposal reflects the shielded fire condition as a result of the unstable test array.
result-to-date of this project. Project reports for the literature The proposed changes reflect the specific result of the palletized
search, range finding tests, and palletized fire tests will be made fire tests, existing code requirements, and the recognition of
available to this Committee. Data and key aspect of the tests are potential retrofit situations in liquid warehouse:
summarized in separate proposals to Appendix D of NFPA 30, - Tests were conducted with the most hazardous, common
Flammable and Combustible Liquids. material, Glass IB flammable liquids;
The literature search identified 700 references related to flam- - The increase in application rate for containers stored in
mable liquid storage and foam-water protection. While there are cardboard recognizes the significant contribution of the packaging
test data related to foam-water protection for drum storage material;
(reflected in the current NFPA 30 code requirements), there were - The recommended design area of 2,000 ft2 represents a factor of
unknown differences between the hazards of flammable liquids safety of four over the test results. (In all tests with metal containers
stored in drums versus small containers. Therefore, initial work stored at the proposed heights, five sprinklers or less overated.) The
involved "free burn" and fire product collector at the Factory Mutual 2,000 ft2 design area should also permit greater flexibility in
Research Center (FMRC) which quantified the differences among retrofitting systems where local pressure/flow characteristics might

42
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

retrofitting systems where local pressure/flow characteristics might protected using a ceiling mounted wet pipe water only sprinkler
limit the abiLity to design to higher areas of application. This is also system. A 5 ~ . Ion (18.9 I) heptane spill was used as the ignition
reflected in the reduced hose stream requirement compared to scenario in this test.
water-only systems. Sprinkler sparing and water supply duration's This test was conducted with I gallon (3.8 I) high density polyethyl-
are consistent with "water-only"criteria existing in Table D-4-6.2(a). ene (HDPE) plastic containers of mineral spirits packed 6 containers
No additional allowances for reductions are permitted when foam is in a listed fire retardant packaging system. A summary of this test is
used; and
Additionally, the proposal is conservative in that, while pallet-pile Table 5
storage heights have been increased, no increase in overall
quantities for liquid warehouses are proposed at this time. Fire test involving a listed fire re~rdant packaging system containing
It is antidpated that details of foam-water spdnlder system designs 1 gallon (3.8 I) plastic containers filled with mineral spirits in a
will be addressed by the NFPA Technical Committee on Foam-Water palletized array using partial pallet loads. (See Note 1)
Sprinklers. The Chairperson of this Committee is a member of the
TAC and has initiated work on a rewrite of NFPA 16A based on the 1. Test Location: Underwriters Laboratories Inc.,
results of this Project. Northbrook, IL
This proposal represents the results of 42 fire tests conducted over
a three-year time period, plus the collective reasoning of the NFPRF 2. Ceiling height: 18 ft (5.5 m)
TAC. It recognizes the substantial impact on fire protection of
flammable liquids when AFFF systems are used. While the proposal 3. Storage Arrangement: 2 by 2 pallet array using partial
allows a modest degree of flexibility in terms of storage height and pallet loads with 6 in. (15cm)
allowance for retrofit designs, it is very spedfic and narrow in terms longitudinal and transverse flue
of design application rates, use of larger orifice sprinklers, and Spaces.
allowances as a function of commodity. The current provisions
PthrOvidethe "state-of-the-art." by virtue of the increasing number of 4. Ignition: 5 gallons (18.9 I) of heptane.
e foam-water sprinkler systems being installed, industry has already Four I gallon (3.8 I) plastic
recognized the advantages of this type of protection. Adoption of bags positioned in the flue
this pro13osal would, provide, enforcers with specifictcgmcidancewhere spaces between pallets and 1
none currently exists. Failure to adopt the proposal would perpetu- gallon (5.8 I) spilled over the
ate a situation where no specific requirements are provided for an bags for simultaneous ignition.
alternative suppression system.
COMM1TrEEACTION: Accept, but replace the words "Automatic 5. Sprinklers: 1/2 in. (12.7 mm) standard
AFFF" with the words ~Closed Head Foam-Water (AFFF)" in the title orifice, 286°F (141°C), RTI ffi
to the Table. 400 (ft-sec) ~s (221 (m-s)°'), 10
COMMrlwEE STATEMENT: The proposed change to the tide is to ft by 10 ft (2.5 m by 2.5 m)
maintain accuracy. spacing.
6. Sprinkler System Type: Wet pipe - water only.
(Log # 91)
30- 88 - (Appendix E): Accept in Part 7. Fuel Quantity, Gal (1): 240 (908)
SUBMITI'gR: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows: 8. Storage Height, In. (m): 31 (0.8)
"This appendix explains fire test data and loss experience that were
used to help promulgate protection tables that are ~resented in 9. Sprinkler System Discharge
Appendix ]3. While these data are limited, they do dlustrate the Density, gpm/ft t (mm/min): 0.s0 (12)
seriousness of a potential drum rupture in a fire and the primary
failure mode of built-up internal pressure in combination with the 10. First Sprinkler Actuation (sec): 46
weakening of the rim joint, due to localized overheating. The
possibility o f a BLEVE (Boiling Liquid Expanding Vapor Explosion) 11. Number of Operating Sprinklers: 4
is also demonstrated. Due to the many unknowns, conservative
practice would be to limit all Class I Liquids stored in drums to not 12. Fire Controlled: No. (See Note 2).
over one drum high, since protection tables were developed with
t~.~s p h i l o . s o p h y . . . .. 13. Measurable Fuel Loss, Gal (1): 35 (132)
14. Significant Observations: Extensive damage and burn-
through of the Listed fire
retardant cartons. Plastic
containers deformed, melted
and leaked their contents.
Note 1: the cartons were labeled "I'his fire retardant package
assembly compLies with the NFPA 30 regulation and
Aerosol Fire Tests: See NFPA 30B, Aerosol Products. meets the requirements of SwRI Test Procedure 91-02, as
8UKSTANTIATION: Very extensive fire tesfinghas been conducted listed by Southwest Research Institute, San Antonio,
at Factory Mutual on a variety of Level 1, 2 and3 aerosol products, Texas. SwRI Test Procedure 91-02 utilized as Underwrit-
which is fully documented in NFPA 30B, Manufacture and Storage ers Laboratories proposed draft procedures, Subject
of Aerosol Products. The last sentence regarding"pressure-relieving 2019, as its basis with modification.
[aerosol] cans" in the paragraph disagrees with the substantiating Note 2: A manually activated AFFF foam-water deluge system was
test data. activated at approximately 3 min 35 sec. The fire was
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept in Part. Accept only the first finally extinguished at approximately 9 rain 30 sec using
paragraph of the recommended text. a 1-1/2 in. hand-held hose line equipped with a foam
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The second paragraph addresses eductor and AFFF, and a dry chemical fire extinguisher.
aerosol products, which are not within the scope of NFPA 30.

contained in Table 5.
(Log # 61)
30- 89 - (E-4-6(b)): Reject SUlgSTANTIATION: In September, 1991, a fire test was conducted
SUBMIT1T.R: David P. Nugent, Schirmer Engineering Corporation at Underwriters Laboratories on behalf of a concerned manufac-
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new entry that would be turer/warehouser/retailer desiring to develop further technical data
renumbered: on the performance of a listed fire retardant packaging system. The
(5) 1991 Fire Tests. A fire test involving a listed fire retardant listed fire recardant packaging system contained six 1 gallon plastic
packaging system containing 1 gallon (3.8 I) plastic containers filled containers Pach filled with a Class II combustible Liquid. The test
with mineral spirits, (a Class II combustible Liquid) was conducted at was designed to explore the effectiveness of the listed fire retardant
Underwriters Laboratories Inc. in Northbrook, IL. The test was packaging system and plastic containers against an exposure pool
arranged in a palletized array using partial pallet loads and was fire in term of its ability to prevent release offlammable/combus-

43
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

spill fire that flowed beneath the pallets and involved all of the (Log # 62)
transverse and longitudinal flue spaces in the test array. Although a 30- 90 - (E-44i(b)): Accept
full scale test involving full pallets was not allowed by the test center SUlSMITrER: David P. Nugent, Schirmer Engineering Corporation
management, the test provides valuable data on the effect of RECOMMENDATION: Add a new entry that would be numbered:
radiative feedback occurring in the flue space and flame impinge- (4) 1991 Fire Tests. A series of four fire tests involving the storage
ment on all surfaces of the packaging system. The code as written is of cartoned and uncartoned 1 gallon (3.8 I) and 5 gallon (18.9 I)
currently lacking in fire test data pertaining to this scenario. metal containers, filled with heptane, (a Oass IB flammable liquid),
COMM1TrEEAG'I'ION: Reject, b u t add a new last sentence to A-4- and latex paint in uncartoned lgallon (3.8 I) metal, 5 gallon (18.9
5.6.4, Exception No. 2 (in Proposal 30.18 (Log #45)) to read: I) plastic, and 5 gallon (18.9 I) metal containers were conducted at
"Additional test data indicates that judgement must be used in Underwriters laboratories In~ in Northbrook, IL. The tests were
considering the likely ignition source when evaluating the suitability arranged in apalletized array and a simulated retail display area
of a fire retarclant packaging system, warehousing practices, and were protectedusing a ceiling mounted Wet pipe sprinkler system. A
required fireprotection." 10 I~II.on (37.9 I) or a 5 gallon (18.9 I) heptane spill was used as the
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee is reluctant to igmtion scenario in these tests.
incorporate into the Appendix the results of a test that might be an Three palletized fire tests were conducted with I gallon (3.8 I)
isolated random data point. The Committee recognizes the need metal F-Style (oblong) containers of heptane packed 4 containers in
for credible fire test data for fires involving containers. It is the a cardboard carton and 5 gallon (18.9 I) metal tightened containers
Committee's intent to review and consolidate available test results. A of heptane. A summary of these tests is contained in Table 4A. A
summary and commentary will be included in a future edition of the fourth fire test was conducted with uncartoned I gallon (3.8 1) metal
Handbook to assist users in the application of engineering judge- F-Style containers of heptane, 5 gallon (18.9 I) metal tightened
ment- containers of heptane with plastic pour spouts, uncartoned I gallon
(3.8 I) metal friction lid containers of latex paint, 5 gallon (18.9 I)
plastic firiction lid containers of latex paint and 5 gallon (18.9 I)
metal tightened containers of latex paint. A summary of this test is
contained in Table 4B.

Table 4A
Fire tests involving mixed storage of palletized 5 gallon (18.9 I) metal tighthead containers of heptane with plastic spouts and I gallon (3.8 1)
metal F-Style containers of heptane in cardboard cartons.
1. Test location: Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook IL
2. Ceiling height 18 ft (5.5 m)
3. Storage Arrangement: Test 1 Test 2 & 3
2 by 2 pallet array with 6 in. (15 cm) 10 pallet array with 6 in. (15 cm)
longitudinal and transverse flue longitudinal and transverse flue
spaces. spaces.
4. Ignition: Test 1 Test 2 & 3
10 gallons (37.0 I) ofheptane. 5 gallons (18.9 I) of heptane, four 1
Nine 1 gallon (3.8 I) plastic bags gallon (3.8 I) plastic bags positioned
~tweSitionedin the flue spaces in the flue spaces between the
en the pallets a n d l pallets and I gallon (3.8 I)
gallon (3.8 I) spilled over the spilled over the bags for simultaneous
bags for simultaneous ignition. ignition.
5. Sprinklers: 1/2-in. (12/7 mm) standard orifice, 286°F (141°G), RTI = 400 (R-sec)°'~(221 (m-s)°'5),
10 ft by 10 ft (2.5 m by 2.5 m) spacing.
6. Sprinkler System Type: Wet pipe - water only.
Test 1 Test 2 Test 3
7. Fuel Quantity, Gal. (I): 880 (3,331) 1,400 (5,300) 1,400 (5,300)
8. Storage Height, In. (m): 80 (2) 48.5 (1.2) 48.5 (1.2)
9. Sprinkler System
Dischar~'e Density,
gpm/ft (mm/min): 0.29 (12) 0.29 (12) 0.21 (8.0)
10. First Sprinkler
Actuation (sec): 35 08 54
11. Number of Operating
Sprinklers: 5 3 4
12. Fire Gontrolled: No (see Note 1) Yes Yes
13. Measurable Fuel Loss,
Gal (1): 1 (3.8) No No
14. Significant Observations: Manyplastic pour spouts Six 5 ~mllon (18.9 I) Twenty-four
meltedon 5 gallon (18.9 I) contmners vented 5 gallon (18.9 I)
containers. Several 5 containers
lOn (18.9 I) containers vented
ged. One 1 gallon (3.8 I)
container ruptured or "bleved. ~

Note 1: A manually activated AFFF foam-water deluge system was activated at approximately 5 rain. into test resulting in fire suppression.

44
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

Table 4B
Fwe test involving shelf storage of uncartoned 1 I~allon (3.8 I) menl F-Style containers of heptane, shelf and floor storage of 5 gallon (18.9 l)
metal tighthead containers of heptane with plastic pour spouts, shelf and floor storage of uncartoned I gallon (3.8 I) metal friction lid contain-
ers of latex paint, shelf storage of 5 gallon (18.9 I) plastic friction lid containers of latex paint and floor storage of 5 gallon (18.9 I) metal
tighthead containers of latex paint.

1. Test Location: Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, IL

2. Ceiling Height: 18 ft (5.5 m)
3. Storage Arrangement: Retail store display involving an 8 ft (2.4 m) long by 4 ft (1.2 m) wide, $ tier high double
backed metal shelf arrangement and an 8 ft (2.5m) long by 3 ft (0.9 m) wide pyramidal floor
storage array. A 5 it (1.5 m) aisle separated the shelf array from the floor array.
4. Ignition: 5 gallons (18.9 I) of heptane. Four I gallon (3.8 I) plastic bags positioned in the center of
aisle space and I gallon (3.8 I) spilled over the bags for simultaneous ignition.
5. Sprinklers: I/2-in. (12.7 nun) standard orifice, 286°F (141°C), RTI = 400 (ft-sec) °'5 (221 (m-s)°'5),
10 ft by 10 ft (2.5 m by 2.5 m) spacing.
6. Sprinkler System Type: Wet pipe - water only.
7. Fuel Quantity, Gal (1): Heptane - 326 (1,234) Latex paint- 176 (666)
8. Storage Height, In. (m): Sbeff Array Floor Array
66 (1.7) 46 (1.2)
9. Sprinkler System Discharge
Density, gpm/ft ~ (ram/rain): 0.19 (7.7)
10. First Sprinkler Actuation (sec): 39
11. Number of Operating Sprinlders: 4
12. Fire Controlled: Yes
13. Measurable Fuel Loss, Gai (l): No
14. Significant Observations: Three 1 gallon (3.81) latex paint container friction lids separated andpopped off. Ten 5
gallons (18.9 I) metal heptane containers vented. Four 5 gallon (18.9 I) metal containers
deformed.

SUBSTANTIATION: In September, 1991, afire test was conducted plastic containers, filled with heptane, (a Class IB flammable liquid),
at Underwriters Laboratories on behalf of a concerned manufac- were conducted at Underwriters Laboratories Inc. in Northbrook,
turer/warehouser/retailer desiring to develop further technical data IL. The testing was sponsored by the National Fire Protection
on the performance of a listed fire retardant packaging system. The Research Foundation as part of their International Foam-Water
listed fire retardant packaging system contained six 1 gallon plastic Sprinkler Research Project The test storage arrays were intended to
containers each filled with a Glass lI combustible liquid. The test simulate palletized storage in a flammable liquid warehouse and
was designed to explore the effectiveness of the listed fire retardant were protected using a ceiling mounted closed-head foam-water
packaging system and plastic containers against an exposure pool sprinkler systen~ An in-line balanced pressure foam proportioning
fire in term of its ability to prevent release of flammable/combus- system was used with a 3 percent concentration of alcohol resistant
tible liquid contents. The ignition scenario incorporated a 5 gallon aqueous film formingfoam (AFFF) on the palletized storage arrays.
spill fire that flowed beneath the pallets and involved all of the A 10 gallon (37.9 L) heptane spill'was used as a the ignition scenario
transverse and longitudinal flue spaces in the test array. Although a for each of the fire tests.
full scale test involving full pallets was not allowed by the test center A series of six fire tests were conducted with 1 gallon metal F-style
management, the test provides valuable data on the effect of (oblong) containers of heptane packed four containers in a
radiative feedback occurring in the flue space and flame impinge- cardboard carton. A summary of these tests is contained in Table
ment on all surfaces of the packaging system. The code as written is 3A. Five fire tests were conduced using uncartoned 5 gallon metal
currently lacking in fire test data pertaining to this scenario. tight-head containers of heptane fitted with plastic pour spouts. The
COMMITIT~ ACTION: Accept. results of these fire tests are contained in Table 3B. Also, two fire
tests were conducted using uncartoned 5 gallon plastic tight-head
containers of heptane. The results of these fire tests are contained
in Table 3C.
A complete and detailed report of these fire tests, which were
(Log# 92) conducted as part of the International Foam-Water Sprinkler
30- 91 - (E-4-6(b)): Accept Research Project, can be obtained from the National Fire Protection
SUBMrlWER: David C. Tabar, The Sherwin-Williams Company Research Foundation, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269.
RECOMMENDATION: Add new foam-water fire test data as
follows:
(3) 1991 Foam-Water Fire Tests. A series of fire tests involving the
pailetized storage of I and 5 gallon metal containers, and 5 gallon

45
 N F P A 30 - - A93 T C R

Table 3A

Foam-Water Fire Tests

Palletized I-Gallon Metal F-Style Containers of Heptane in Cardboard Cartons

1. Test location: Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Northbrook, IL

2. Ceiling height 27 ft (8.2 m)
3. Storage arrangement: 2 by 2 (heptane) pallet array with 6 in. (15 cm) longitudinal and transfers flue spaces. (Test Nos. 12 &
13 included palletized Class II commodity exposed to the heptane array.
4. Ignition: 10 gallons (37.9 I) ofheptane: Nine 1 gallon (3.8 I) plastic bags positioned in the flue spaces between
the pallets and one gallon (3.8 I) spilled over the base for simultaneous ignition.
5. Sprinklers: 1/2-in. (12.7 mm) standard orifice in tests 3, 5, 9 and 12, and 17o[32-in. (13.5 mm) large orifice in tests
11 and 13, 286°F (141°C) temperature rated, RTI = 400 ft *sec)~~((221 m *sec)°~), 10 ft by 10 ft
(2.5 m by 2.5 m) spacing.
6. Foam Concentrate: 3% alcohol resistant AFFF type. Listed for use on hydrocarbon fuels at a 3% concentration and on
polar solvent type fuels at a 6 ~ concentration.
7_a Foam Proportioner: Indine balanced pressure type installed in the base of the sprinkler riser.
8. Fire Test Number: 3 5_ 9 11 1.._22 1~
9. Fuel Quantity-Gal: 160 480 960 1440 1920 1600
10. Storage Ht (In.): 16 38 76 114 156 128
11. Design Density: 0.30 0.30 0.30 0,40 0.40 0.40
12. Foam Concentrate (%): 3 3 3 3 3 3
13. First Sprinkler Actuation (sec) 38 36 34 34 38 42
14. Time of Foam-Water (sec) 70 68 48 62 57 61
15. No. Operating Sprinklers 4 4 10 5 5 4
16. Duration of Foam-Water 2.5 2.5 2.5 6.4 9.4 9.3
Water Application (rain)
17. Foam-Water Solution 300 300 750 1283 1873 1488
Discharged (gal)
18. Fire Suppressed: Yes Yes Yes Yes * Yes
19. Measurable Fuel Loss (gal) None None None None 15 gal None

*Test discontinued at 10 minutes due to shielding of fire in flue space.

46
 N F P A 30 - - A 9 3 T C R

Table 3B

Foam-Water Fire Tests

Palletized 5 Gallon Metal Tight-Head Containers of Heptane with Plastic Pour Spouts

1. Test Location: Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Northbrook, IL

2. Ceiling Height: 27 ft (8.2 m)
3. Storage Arrangement: 2 by 2 (heptane) pallet array with 6 in. (15 cm) longitudinal and transverse flue spaces.
4. Ignition: 10 gallons (37,9 I) of heptane, Nine I gallon (3.8 I) plastic bags positioned in the flue spaces between
the pallets and one gallon (3.8 I) spilled over the bags for simultaneous ignition.
5. Sprinklers: 1/2-in. (12.7 ram) standard orifice, 286°F (141°C) temperature rated, RTI = 400 (ft *sec) °'5 ((221 m
*sec)°'5), 10 ft by 10 ft (2.5 m by 2.5 m) spacing.
ft. Foam Concentrate: 3% alcohol resistant AFFF type. Listed for use on hydrocarbon fuels at a 3% concentration and on
polar solvent type fuels at a 6% concentration.
7. Foam Proportioner. In-line balanced pressure type installed in the base of the sprinkler riser.
8. Fire Test Number: 1 _4 fi_ _8 10

9. Fuel Quantity-Gal: 160 320 480 960 1440

10. Storage Ht (In.): 19 33 47 94 141
11. Design Density." 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30 0.30
12. Foam Concentrate (%): 3 3 3 3 3

13. First Sprinkler Actuation (sec) 48 49 49 50 50

14. Time of Foam-Water (sec) 80 81 81 390 82
15. No. Operating Sprinklers 4 5 5 4 4
lfi. Duration of Foam-Water 2.5 2.5 4.2 2.5 7
Water Application (rain)
17. Foam-Water Solution 300 375 625 300 840
Discharged (gad)
18. Fire Suppressed: Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
19. No. Vented Containers 32 32 32 51 72
20. Measurable Fuel Loss (gal) None None 10" 5** None

*Two containers fell offthe array and spilled their contents.

**Once container was empty following the test.

47 /
 N F P A 30 m A 9 3 T C R

Table 3C
Foam-Water Fire Tests
Palletized 5 Gallon Plastic Tight-Head Containers of Heptane

1. Test Location: Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., Northbrook, IL

2. Ceiling Height: 27 ft (8.2 m)

3. Storage Arrangement: 2 by 2 (beptane) pallet array with 6 in. (15 cm) longitudinal and transverse flue spaces.

4. Ignition: 10 gallons (37.9 I) of heptane, Nine 1 gallon (3.8 I) plastic bags positioned in the flue spaces between
the pallets and one gallon (3.8 I) spilled over the bags for simultaneous ignition.

5. Sprinklers: 1/2-in. (1.2.7 mm) stand~'d orifice, 286°F (141°C) for Test 2A and 165°F (74°C) for Test 7, RTI = 400
(ft *sec) "~ ((221 m *sec)"~), 10 ft by 10 ft (2.5 m by 2.5 m) spacing.
6. Foam Concentrate: 3% alcohol resistant AFFF type. Listed for use on hydrocarbon fuels at a 3% concentration and on
polar solvent type fuels at a 6% concentration.

7. Foam Proportioner: In-line balanced pressure type installed in the base of the sprinkler riser.

8. Fire Test Number: 2A _7

9. Fuel quantity, Gal: 160 160

10. Storage Height, In.: 19 19

11. Design Density: 0.50 0.30

12. Foam Concentration, %: 3 3

13. First Sprinkler Actuation (sec) 44 35

14. Time of Foam-Water Applic. (sec) 58 35*

15. Number of Operating Sprinklers 14 10

16. Duration of Foam-Water 3.4 9.1

Application (rain)

17. Quantity of Foam-Water 1470 2735

Water discharged (gal)
18. Fire Suppressed: Yes Yes

19. No. Breached containers 25 24

20. Measurable Fuel Loss (gal) 85 115

* Sprinkler system piping was filled with foam-water solution to reduce the delay in discharging foam into the fire.

Additional fire tests of the 5 gal tight-bead plastic container were not conducted due to concerns over storage array integrity when stacked more
than one container (19 in. or 48.3 cm) high.

SUBSTANTIATION: New fire test data has been provided by

Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. from the National Fire Protection
Research Foundation's International Foam-Water Sprinkler
Research Project (See also substantiation to new Appendix D
Tables). The data is needed to support proposed new foam-water
protection tables, and to provide users of foarn-water sprinkler
systems and others - the latest technical data.
COMMITI~E ACTION: Accept.

48
 N F P A 395 - - A93 T C R

PART III (Log # 2)

395- 6 - (1-4.1.2): Reject
395.1 - (Title): Accept SUBM1XTER: StephenJ. Ohnstad, Whitinsville, MA
SUBMrI'rFJU Committee on Flammable a n d Combustible Liquids RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows:
RECOMMENDATION: Change title to "Standard for the Storage of "A 40 x 40 mesh flame screen shall be included in the free opening
Flammable and Combustible Liquids at Farms and Isolated Sites'. vent. It shall cover the entire area of the vent opening in order to
SUBSTANTIATION: The proposed new title correlates with the
proposed new scope of this document g revent flame passage into the tank."
~ANTIATION: If a tank vent were to relieve due to pressure
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept build up from fire exposure, flame could enter the tank. Aflame
screen on the discharge of the vent would absorb the flames heat
and prevent its p ~ e into the tanL
COMMITIT.E ACTION: Reject.
395- 2 - (Scope): Accept C O ~ STATEMENT: The Committee can find no evidence
SUBMrlWER: Comrmttee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids that there is a particular fire problem that would be addressed by
RECOMMENDATION: Replace the existing scope statement with this proposal. For the sizes of tanks being addressed and for the very
the following: limited fire ex.posufe scenarios being addressed, the Committee can
1-1 Scope. see only very hmited benefit and a much greater threat for the vent
1-1.1" This standard shall apply to the storage of Class I flammable to become plugged due to debris, etc.
liquids and Class II and Class IliA combustible liquids, as herein
defined, in containers or tanks that do not exceed 1100 gal (4180 L) m ~

individual capacity:
(a) on farms and in rural areas; (Log # 1)
(b) at isolated construction sites and isolated earthmoving 395- 7 - (1-4.2 (New) and 1-4.2.1 (New)): Reject
projects, including gravel pits, quarries,and burrow pt'ts, where, in S U ] g ~ Won Kook Kim, Shrewsbury, MA
the opinion of the authority having jurisdiction, it is not necessary to RECOMMENDATION: Add new text as follows:
comply with the more restrictive requirements of NFPA 50, 1-4.2 Portable Fire Control Equipment.
Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code; and I-4.2.1 Listed portable fire extinguishers shall be provided for
(c) at any private site where isolation or separation from other facilities in such quantities, sizes, and types as may be needed for the
structures or where temporary use make it unnecessary, in the special hazards of operation and storage as determined l~er 5-5.1.3
opinion of the authority having jurisdiction, to comply with the NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Extinguishers, provides reformation
more restrictive requirements of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combus- on the suitability of various types of extinguishers.
tible Liquids Code. SUBSTANTIATION: In 1-4, NFPA 395, 1988, couldn't fred any of
A-I-I.1 On isolated construction and earthmoving projects and on fire control system. Ventilation and fire safety distance were
other similarly isolated sites, it is customary for the property owner provided as a fire protection means. And the range of the fuel
or the contractor to obtain fuel in bulk and to dispense the fuel storage amount is from 60 to ll0O gal. I believe the upper limit of
under his or her direct control. storage amount is big enough to cause the disastrous fire to the
SUBSTANTIATION: This broadened scope allows application of adjacent property, while there were no clear definition of areas
NFPA" 395 in any situation where the authority having jurisdiction where that type of flammable, combustible liquid shall be located.
deems it to be unnecessary to meet the requirements of NFPA 30. Farm and isolated construction is not clear enough to prevent the
C O M M r r r E E ACTION: Accept. fire disaster from burning fuel tanks which has no fire control
ACTION: Reject.
COMMrlWEE STATEMENT: Since these locations will normally be
395- 3- (1-1.2): Accept in isolated and unattended locations, portable fire extinguishers
S U B M r r I T ~ Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids would be of limited value. They are not likely to survive for any
RECOMMENDATION: Replace the existing 1-1.2 with the length of time, due to theft and vandalism. Ensuring that the
following: extinguishers remain in place would be an impractical security
1-1.2 This standard shall n o t apply to: problem. The Committee's opinion is that requirements of this
(a) the storage, handling, and use of fuel tanks and containers that nature are better left up to the local authority having jurisdiction.
are installed or used in accordance with NFPA 31, Standard for the
Installation of Oil Burning Equipment, NFPA 37, Standard for the
Installation and Use of Stationary C o m b u ~ o n Engines and Gas
Turbines, and NFPA 30A, Automotive and Marine Service Station 395- 8 - (1-5): Accept
Code, and SUBMITrER: Committee on Flammable a n d Combustible Liquids
(b) the storage of 25 gal (95 L) or less of Class I flammable liquid RECOMMENDATION: Add new Section 1-5, Definitions, and the
and Class II and III combustible liquids in containers that do not defmitions of "approved" and "authority having jurisdiction" from
e x c e e d a c a p a c i t y o f 5 g a l (19L). • . . . . . e tion the NFPA Manual of Style and the definition of"Liquid" from NFPA
SUBSTANTIATION: This is an eaitorim w r r c to existing 1-1.2 30, as shown in the accompanying draft of the 1993 edition of NFPA
to add NFPA 37 and NFPA 30A to the list of exempted situations. 395.
C O l ~ ACTION: Accept. SUBSTKN'rIATION: Addition of these definitions complies with
the NFPA Manual of Style and assists the user in interpreting the
requirements of the standard.
C O M M I T I T ~ ACTION: Accept.
395- 4 - (1-2): Accept
SUBMITrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
RECOMMENDATION: Replace the existing 1-2 with the following:
I-2 Purpose. The purpose of this Standard shall be to provide 395- 9 - (2-1): Accept
reasonable requirements for the storage of Class I flammable and S U B M I T r E ~ Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Class II and Class IliA combustible liquids that are less restrictive RECOMMENDATION: Replace existing Section 1-2 with new
than the requirements of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Section 2-1 as follows:
Liquids Code, for use in the specific situations given in 1-1.1. 2-1 Types of Approved Storage.
SUBSTANTIATION: This is an addition to comply with NFPA's 2-1.1 Storage of Class I, Class II, and Class IliA liquids, as covered
Manual of Style and NFPA policy. by this Standard, shall be permitted in any of the following:
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept (a) in aboveground or underground tanks that meet the require-
ments of (~apters 2 and 3 of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible
Liquids Code;
(b) in containers that meet the requirements of C~apter 4 of
395- 5 - (1-3, 1-4): Accept NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code;
SUBMI'rI'K~ Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids (c) in containers that do not exceed 60 gal (227 L), in accordance
RECOMMENDATION: Add new Section 1-3, Equivalency, and new with Section 2-2 of this Standard;
Section 1-4, Retroactivity, as shown in the accompanying draft of the (d) in tanks of more than 60 gal (227 L), but not more than 1100
1993 editionof NFPA 395. gal (4164 L), capacity, in accordance with Section 2-$ of this
SUBSTANTIATION: Addition of these two sections complies with Standard.
the NFPA Manual of Style. SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial improvement.
C O M M I T T E E ACTION: Accept. COMMITI'EE ACTION: Accept.

49
 NFPA 395 m A93 TCR

395- 10- (2-2): Accept 395- 15 - (A-2-3.3): Accept

SUBMITTER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids SUBMITrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
RECOMMENDATION: Replace existing Section I-3 with new RECOMMENDATION: Add an appendix item to 2-3.3 to read:
Section 2-2 as follows: A-2-3.3 Vent sizes are based on limiting the internal pressure of the
2-2 Individual Containers Not Exceeding 60 Gallons Capacity. tank to 3.0 psig (120 percent of 2.5 psig, the maximum internal
2-2.1 Storage shall be in containers approved by the pressure allowed for an atmospheric storage tank), using an orifice
U. S. Department of Transportation or in other approved contain- coefficient of 0.8 and an environmental factor of 0.5. The 0.5
ers. environmental factor recognizes the limited time that a small tank
2-2.2 Capacity of containers shall not exceed 60 gallons (227 L). will be exposed to fire, loss of foel by absorption into the soil, and
2-2.3 Dispensing or transfer devices that require the container to drainage of liquid away from the tank. Calculations are based on
be pressurized shall be prohibited. subsection 2-2.5 of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids
2-2.4 Pumping devices and faucets shall be well maintained to Code.
prevent leakage. SUBSTANTIATION: This explains how the vent sizes given in 2-3.3
2-2.5 Individual containers shall not be interconnected or were determined.
manifolded and shall be kept tightly closed when not in use. COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept
2-2.6 Containers used for the storage of Class I liquids shall be kept
outside and at least 10 ft (3 m) from any building.
Exception: As allowed in 2-2.7.
2-2.7 Containers shall be pqermitted to be stored inside a building 395- 16 - (Entire Document): Accept
that is used exclusively for the storage of Class I, Class II, and Class SUBMITIT~: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
I l i a liquids and is located at least 10 ft (3m) from any other RECOMMENDATION: Revise NFPA 395 as shown in the following
building. draft.
2-2.7.1 The buildingshall be provided with cross-ventilation using SUBSTANTIATION: The following draft of the proposed 1993
at least two vents, each having a net open area of 64 sq in (645 ram2) edition of NFPA 395 incorporates all of the preceding substantive
and each placed at floor level. The vents shall be located opposite changes to the text, as well as numerous editorial amendments.
from each other. COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.
SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial improvement.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.

NFPA $95
395- 11 - (2-3): Accept
SUBMrlWER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids Standard for the Storage of
RECOMMENDATION: Replace existing Section 1-4 with new Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Section 2-3 as shown in the accompanying draft of the proposed at Farms and Isolated Sites
1993 edition of NFPA 395.
SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial improvement 1995 Edition
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept.
Claapter I General
395- 12 - (2-4): Accept I-I Scope.
SUBMITrFA~ Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
RECOMMENDATION: Replace existing I-5 with new Section 2-4 to 1-1.1" This standard shall apply to the storage of Class I flammable
read as follows: liquids and Class II and Class IIIA combustible liquids, as herein
2-4 Marking of Tanks and Containers. defined, in containers or tanks that do not exceed 1,100 gal (4180
2-4.1 Tanks and containers shall be conspicuously marked with the L) individual capacity:
name of the contained product and with the following marking:
WLAMMABLE - KEEP FIRE AND FLAME AWAY". (a) On farms and in rural areas;
2-4.2* Tanks shall also bear the following marking: "KEEP 40 FT
FROM BUILDINGS" (b) At isolated construction sites and isolated earthmoving
SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial improvement. tPhrojects, including gravel ~pits,quarries, and borrow pits, where, in
COMM1TIT~E ACTION: Accept. e opinion of the authority having jurisdiction, it is not necessary to
comply with the more restrictive requirements of NFPA 30,
Flammable and Comb~tible Liquids Cod<,and
395- 13- (2-4): Accept (c) At any private site where isolation or separation from other
SUBMITrER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible. Liquids structures or where temporary use makes it unnecessary, in the
RECOMMENDATION: Add an appendix item to read: opinion of the authority having jurisdiction, to comply with the
J "A-2-4.2 This 40 ft (12.2m) clearance distance should also apply to more restrictive requirements of NFPA 30, F/ammab/e and Combustib/e
other combustible structures, haystacks, etc-" L/quids C~d~
SUBSTANTIATION: This appendix item cautions the user of
NFPA 395 that separation may be necessary from other combustible 1-1.2 This standard shall not apply to:
structures or storage.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. (a) The storage, handling, and use of fuel tanks and containers
that are installed or used in accordance with NFPA 31, Standard for
the Installation of Oil Buming Equipmen~ NFPA 37, Standard for the
Installation and Use of Stationary Comb~tion Enginea and Gas Turbine~,
395-14- (2-5): Accept and NFPA 30A, Automotive and Marine ServiceStation Code,and
SUBMrITER: Committee on Flammable and Combustible Liquids
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new Section 2-5 to read: (b) The storage of 25 gal (95 L) or less of Class I flammable liquid
2-5 Fire Prevention and Control. and Class II andClass III combustible liquids in containers that do
2-5.1 Storage areas shall be kept free of weeds and other extrane- not exceed a capacity of 5 gad (19 L).
ous combustible materials.
2-5.2 Open flames and smoking materials shall not be permitted in 1-2 Purpose. The purpose of this standard shall be to provide
areas where Class I liquids are stored. reasonable requirements for the storage of Class I flammable and
SUBSTANTIATION: This represents basic fire prevention measures Glass II and Glass IliA combustible liquids that are less restrictive
that should be a part of NFPA 395, especially since only the least than the requirements of NFPA 30, F/ammab/e and Combustib/eL/qu/ds
onerous requirements for safety have been incorporated into this Code, for use in the specific situations set forth in I-I.I.
document.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. 1-$ F~lulvalency. Nothing in this standard is intended to prevent the
use of systems, methods, or devices of equivalent or supermr quality,
strength, fire resistance, effectiveness, durability, or satety over those
prescribed by this standard, provided technical documentation is

50
 NFPA 395 - - A93 T C R

submitted to the authority having jurisdiction to demonstrate Oaapter 2 Specific Requirements

equivalency and the system, method, or device is approved for the
purpose. 2-1 Types of Approved Storage.
1-4 Retroactlvity. The provisions of this standard are considered 2-1.1 Storage of Class I, Class II, and Class IIIAliquids, as covered by
necessary to provide a reasonable level of protection from loss of life this standard, shall be permitted in any of the following:
and property from fire or explosion. They reflect situations and the
state-of-the-art prevalent at the time the standard was issue& Unless (a) In aboveground or underground tanks that meet the require-
otherwise indicated, it is not intended that the provisions of this ments of Section 2-2 and (~tapter 3 of NFPA 30, F/ammab/e and
standard be applied to facilities, equipment, structures, or installa- t/b/e L/qu/ds Code
tions which were existing or approvedfor construction or installa-
tion prior to the effective date of this standard, except in those cases (b) In containers that meet the requirements of Section 4-2 of
where it is determined that the existing situation involves a distinct NFPA 30, Flammable and CombustibleLiquids Co&
hazard to life or adjacent property.
(c) In containers that do not exceed fi0 gal (227 L), in accordance
1-,5 Definitions. For the purposes of this standard, the following with Section 2-2 of this standard
terms shall be defined as shown below.
(d) In tanks of more than 60 gal (227 L), but not more than 1,100
Approved. Acceptable to the "authority having jurisdiction." gal (4,164 L), capacity, in accordance with Section 2-3 of this
standard.
NOTE: The National Fire Protecfon Association does not
approve, inspect or certify any installations, procedures, equip- 2-2 Individual Containers Not Exceeding 60 Gallons Capacity.
ment, or materials nor does it approve or evaluate ~esting
laboratories. In determining the acceptability of installations or 2-2.1 Storage of liquids shall be in containers approved by the U. S.
procedures, equipment or materials, the authority having Department of Transportation or in other approved containers.
jurisdiction may base acceptance on compliance with NFPA or
other appropriate standards. In the absence of such standards, 2-2.2 Capacity of containers shall not exceed 60 gallons (227 L).
said authority may require evidence of proper installation,
procedure or use. The authority having jurisdiction may also refer 2-2.$ Dispensing or transfer devices that require the container to he
to the listings or labeling practices of an o r[ganization concerned pressurized shall be prohibited.
with product evaluations which is in a position to determine
compliance with appropriate standards for the current production 2-2.4 Pumping devices and faucets shall be well maintained to
of listed items. prevent leakage.
Authority HavlagJurlsdlctlon. The "authority havingjurisdicti_on" is 2-2.5 Individual containers shall not be interconnected or
the organization, office or individual responsible for "approving manifolded and shall be kept tightly closed when not in use.
equipment, an installation or a procedure.
2-2.6 Containers used for the storage of Class I liquids shall be kept
NOTE: The phrase "authority havinl~jurisdiction" is used in NFPA outside and at least 10 ft (3 m) from any building.
documents in a broad manner sincejurisdictions a n d "approval"
agencies vary as do their responsibilities. Where public safety is Exception.. As allowed in 2-2. 7.
rimary, the "authority having jurisdiction" may be a federal, state,
cal or other regional department or individual such as a fire 2-2.7 Containers shall be permitted to be stored inside a building
chief, fire marshal, chief of a fire prevention bureau, labor that is used exclusively for the storage of Class I, Class II, and Class
department, health department, building official, electrical IIIA liquids and is located at least I0 ft (Sin) from any other
inspector, or others having statutory authority. For insurance building.
purposes, an insurance inspection department, rating bureau, or
other insurance company representative may be the "authority 2-2.7.1 The building shall be provided with cross-ventilation using at
having jurisdiction. ~ In many circumstances the property owner or least 2 vents, each having a net open area of 64 sq in. (645 mm2)
his des[gnated agent assumes the role of the "authority having and each placed at floor level. The vents shall be located opposite
jurisdiction'; at government installations, the commanding officer from each other.
or departmental-official may be the "authority having jurisdiction."
2~ Tanks of 60 to 1,100 Gallons Capacity.
Liquid. Any material that has a fluidity greater than that of 300
penetration asphalt when tested in accordance with ASI'M D5, Test 2-.8.1 Tanks shall be of single,-compartment design and constructed
forPm~mgonforBitumi~.~MaWdab. Where not otherwise in accordance with good engineenng practice. Joints shall be
identified, the term ~liquid shall mean both flammable and riveted and caulked, riveted and welded, or welded. Tank heads that
combustible liquids. are greater than 0 R (2 m) in diameter shall be dished, stayed,
braced, or reinforced.
(a) Combust/b/eL/qu/d. A liquid that has a closed-cup flash point at
or above 100°F (37.8°C), as determined by appropriate methods of 2-$.1.1 Tanks shall meet the following minimum plate thickness:
test. Combustible liquids shall be classified as follows:
Capacity Minimum Steel Thickness
1. Class II liquids shall include any liquid that has a dosed-cup Gallons Liters Mfrs. Standard Gage No.
flash point at or above 100°F (37.8°C), but below 140°F (60°C).
fi0 to 560 230 to 2,120 14
2. Class IliA liquids shall include any liquid that has a dosed-cup 561 to 1,100 2,120 to 4,165 12
flash point at or above 140°F (60°C), but below 200°F (93.4°C).
2-$.2 Each tank shall be provided with a fill opening that is
(b) F/ammab/eL/qu/d. A liquid that has a closed-cup flash point equipped with a closure that is designed to be locked. The fill
below 100*F (~7.8'°eC), as determined by appropriate methods of test. opening shall be separate from the vent opening.
Flammable liquids shall be classified as follows:
2-$.$* Each tank shall be provided with a free-opening vent that will
Class IA liquids shall include any liquid that has a closed-cup flash relieve either the vacuum or the pressure that may develop during
point below 73°F (22.8°C) and a boiling point below 100°F (37.8°C). normal operation or fire exposure. The vent shall have the
following nominal pipe size:
Class IB liquids shall include any liquid that has a closed-cup flash
point below73°F (22.8°C) and a boiling point at or above 100°F Capacity Vent Diameter
~S7.80C). Gallons Liters Inches Millimeters

Class IG liquids shall include any liquid that has a closed-cup flash to 275 1,040 1 1/2 $8
point at or above 73°F (22.8°C), but below 100*F (37.80C). ~6 - 000
001 - 900
1,040- 2,500
2,500- 3,410
2
2 1/2
51
64
900 - 1,100 3,410 - 4,155 3 76

51
 N F P A 395 - - A93 T C R

2-3.4 Vents shall be arranged to discharge so as to prevent localized 2-5 Fire Prevention and Control.
overheating of or direct flame impingement on any part of the tank
in the event that vapors from the vent are ignited. 2-5.1 S m ~ e areas shall be kept free of ~ e d s and other e x w ~ e o u s
combustible materials.
2-$.5 Tanks shall be located outside and at least 40 ft (12 m) from
any building. They shall also be located so that any vehicle, 2-5.2 Open flames and smoking materials shall not be permitted in
equipment, or container that is filled directly from the tanks is at areas where Class I liquids are stored.
least 40 ft (12 m) from any building.

2-$.6 Tanks provided for in this section shall be permitted to have Claapter $ Referenced Publications
top openings only or shall be permitted to be elevated for gravity
discharge. $-1 The following documents or portions thereof are referenced
within this standard and shall be considered part of the require-
2-$.6.1 Tanks that have top openings only shall be mounted and ments of this document. The edition indicated for each reference is
equipped as follows: the current edition as of the date of the NFPA issuance of this
document.
(a) Stationary tanks shall be mounted on timbers or blocks 6 in.
(150 mm) in height, so as to protect the bottom of the tank from 3-1.1 NFPA Publication. National Fire Protection Association,
corrosion due to contact with the ground and to maintain the tank 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA 02269-9101.
in a stable position.
NFPA 30, Flammable. and Combustible Liquids Code, 1990 edition.
(b) Movable tanks shall be equipped with attached metal legs that
rest on shoes or runners designed so that the tank is supported in a 3-1.2 Other Publications.
stable position and so that the tank and its supports may be moved as
a single unit. 3-I.$ ASTM Publication. American Society for Testing and
Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
(c) Tanks shall be equil?ped with a tightly and permanently
attached approved pumping device having an approved hose of ASTM D5-1986, Test for Penetration for Bituminous Materials.
sufficient length for filling the vehicles, equipment, or containers to
be served by the tank.
Appendix A
(d) The dispenser nozzle and hose shall be equipped so that it can
be padlocked to its hanger to prevent tampering. This Appendix is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document, but
is included for information purposes onO"
(e) The pump discharge shall be equipped with an effective
antisiphoning device, or the discharge hose shall be equipped with a A-1-1.1 On isolated construction and earthmoving projects and on
self<losing nozzle. other similarly isolated sites, it is customary for the property owner
or the contractor to obtain fuel in bulk and to dispense the fuel
(f) Siphons or internal pressure discharge devices shall be under his or her direct control.
prohibited.
A-2-$.$ Vent sizes are based on limiting the internal pressure of the
2-$.6.2 Tanks elevated for gravity discharge shall be mounted and tank to 3.0 prig (20.7 kPa) (120 percent of 2.5 psig (I7.2 kPa), the
equipped as follows: maximum internal pressure allowed for an atmospheric storage
tank), using an orifice coefficient of 0.8 and an environmental factor
(a) Tanks shall be supported on steel or wood supports having of 0.5. The 0.5 environmental factor recognizes the limited time
adequate strength and design to provide stability. Alternately, tanks that a small tank will be exposed to fire, loss of fuel by absorption
shall be permitted to be placed on a pile of earth or near the edge of into the soil, and drainage of liquid away from the tank. CaIcula-
a cut bank to provide the necessary elevation and shall be supported tions are based on 2-2.5 of NFPA 30, F/amnmb/e and Combustible
on timbers or blocks for stability and to prevent corrosion from Liquids C0d~
contact with the ground.
A-24.2 This 40 ft (12.2 m) clearance distance should also apply to
(b) Discharge connections shall be made to the bottom or to the other combustible structures, haystacks, etc.
end of the tank.
(c) The discharge connection shall be equipped with avalve that Appendix B Referenced Publications
will automatically close in the event of a fire by means of operation
of an effective heat actuated device. This valve shall be located B-I The following documents or portions thereof are referenced
adjacent to the tank shell. If this valve cannot be operated manually, within this standard for informational purposes only and thus are
an additional manually operated valve shall be provided. not considered part of the requirements of this document. The
edition indicated for each reference is the current edition as of the
(d) The discharge connection shall be provided with an approved date of the NFPA issuance of this document.
hose of sufficient length for filling vehicles, equipment, a n d
containers to be served by the tank. The hose shall be provided with B-I.I NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association,
a self-closing nozzle at the discharge end. 1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA 02269-9101.

(e) The hose shall be equipped so that it can be padlocked to its NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, 1990 edition
hanger to prevent tampenng.
NFPA 30A, Automotive and Marine Service Station Code, 1990 edition
2-4 Marking of Tanks and Containers.
NFPA 31, Standard for the lnstallation of Oil Buming Equipmm~ 1992
2-4.1 Tanks and containers shall be conspicuously marked with the edition
name of the containedproduct and with the following marking:
'~..AMMABLE m KEEP FIRE AND FLAME AWAY." NFPA 37, Standard for the Installaffan and Use of StatimurO Combustion
Eng/n~ and Gas Turb/nes, 1990 edition.
2-4.2* Tanks shall also bear the following marking: 'T,EEP 40 FT
FROM BUILDINGS."

52
 N F P A 327 n A93 T C R

Inert gas.
PART IV
Inerting.
(Log# 1)
327- I - (Entire Document): Accept in Principle Liquid.
S U ' B ~ B. Sharp, Armor Shield
RECOMMENDATION: The problem is described in the following Lower Flammable Limits. The minimum concentration of vapor in
order. air or oxygen below which propagation of a flame does not occur on
Facts: contact with a source of ignition.
1. NFPA 30'Appendix G ~UNDERGROUND TANKS ~
(a) The scope includes (C-1-2) removal, a b a n d o n m e n t Qualified Person. A person designated by the employer, in writing,
(b) Appendix C (04-2) states "AFTER removal, the tank may be as capable (by education a n d / o r specialized training), of anticipat-
gas freed on the location, or -- - ing, recognizing potential hazards and other unsafe conditions in a
(c) Appendix C (O5-1) references NFPA 327, Standard Proce- confined space, capable of specifying necessary control a n d / o r
dures for Cleaning or Safeguarding Small Tanks and Containers and protective action to ensure worker safety, and knowledgeable of the
states that 327 ~provides. information on safe procedures for such procedures described in this standard.
operations."
Problem: Standby Person. A person trained in emergency rescue procedures
1. The above facts (1, a, b, c,) regarding NFPA 30 Appendix C and assigned to remain on the outside of the confined space and to
"Abandonment or Removal of Underground Tanks and Containers" be in communication with those working inside.
lack for safe procedures.
2. TANK REMOVAL, the tank should be vapor free and cleaned to a Static Electricity. The electrification of materials through physical
non-hazardous condition prior to removal from the ground for some contact and separation, and the various effects that result from the
of the following reasons: positive a n d negative charges so formed, particularly where they
(a) Tanks have ignited a n d / o r exploded while performing constitute a fire or explosion hazard.
deaning, hot work or tank removal in accordance with 327.
(b) NFPA 30 C-4-2 states the tank shall be gas freed after removal. Purging. The process of displacing the flammable vapors from an
This is an extremely dangerous practice, handling an empty enclosure a n d / o r confined space.
underground tank that contain flammable vapors is an accident
waiting to happen. Examples of potential accidents that may Unstable (reactive) liquid.
provide a source of ignition are: a backhoe puncturing a hole in the
tank, the tank being dropped, or gasoline/vapors in the excavation 1-4 Purpose and Extent of Cleaning.
hole being ignited while a tank containing flammable vapors is being
removed from such excavation. 1-4.1 Cleaning in Preparation for Hazardous Work.
3. TANK ENTRY, NFPA 30 Appendix C is related to underground
tanks and references only NFPA 327 for safe procedures regarding 1-4.2 Cleaning for Change in Service.
cleaning of tanks which cannot be entered. It has been well
established that cleaning to a vapor free condition for hot work on 1-4.3 Cleaning for Other Purposes. In some cases, when empty
underground tanks without entry is often impossible to achieve. tanks or containers are to be internally inspected and assessed prior
Such attempts have resulted in explosions and fires. to installing cathodic protection system, repaired, interior lined,
Conclusion: transported or stored, it may be necessary to dean them. Selection
NFPA 327 should contain procedures for cutting entry manways of a cleaning procedure shall take into consideration the intended
into underground tanks prior to removal from the ground. use of the container, chemical and physical properties of the new
Additionally, 327 should be expanded to handle the reseating of the material to be stored, and the known or suspected contaminating
manway cut into the tank. Resealing of the manway is necessary for material.
NFPA to address in order to recognize and be current with the
Federal Rules of 40 CFR Part 280.21 (b) (2) (i) ~Intemal inspection Chapter 2 General Precautions
for retrofit cathodic protection".
2-1 Work on tanks or containers that have held liquids or gases shall
1-1 Purpose. be performed u n d e r the supervision of at least one quaiified person
who understands the fire and explosion potential involved. Workers
1-2 Scope. These procedures are intended to apply only to the shall be sufficiently skilled, to. safely carry out. the operations
cleaning or safeguarding of UST's and shall include small tanks or necessary. The charactensucs of the prewous contents of the tank or
containers that have contained flammable or combustible liquids, container shall be determined.
gases, or solids.
They are not intended to apply to the cleaning or safeguarding of 2-1.1 Ignition Controls - Prior to any work being performed, the site
above ground tanks that may be entered, tank vehicles or tank cars; shall be safeguarded fi,om all sources of ignition for an area of at
tanks, hunkers, or compartments on ships or barges; gas plant least 25 ft in all directions until the area is vapor free. All open
equipment or gas distributin~ systems for natural or manufactured flame and spark producing equipment within the area shall be shut
gas; nor to compressed and liquefied gas cylinders. Procedures for down. Barricades and warning signs reading ~¢lammable - No
cleaning or safeguarding some of these vessels are covered separately Smoking ~ shall be provided a n d / o r placed in accordance with the
in the following publications: fire chief.

(a) RP 2015, Cleaning Petroleum Storage Tanks. 2-1.2 (Was 2-1.1 No wording change)
(b) RP 2013, Cleaning Tank Vehicles Used for Transportation of
Flammable Liquids. 2-1.3 (Was 2-1.2 No wording change)
(c) RP 1631, Interior Lining of Underground Storage Tanks.
(d) NLPA 631, Spill Prevention, Minimum 10-Year Life Extension 2-1.4 (Was 2-1.3 No wording change)
of Existing Steel Underground Storage Tanks By Lining Without the
Addition of Cathodic Protection. 2-1.5 Fire Extinguisher. Two portable A:B:O type fire extinguisher,
(e) NFPA 30fi, Standard for the Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels. each having a rating not less than 80 B:C, shall be provided on the
(f) "Purging Principles and Practices," 1954. site in accordance with NFPA ???/

1-3 Definitions. 2-1.6 Emergency Communications. Adependable method,

Bonding. acceptable to OSHA confined space enu 7 permit, shall be available
for notifying the fire department in the event of a fire or other
Clean - Steel. Steel that has been treated in a manner so as to be emergency.
free of all visible rust, solid residues, liquid, ~ r t , oil and mill scale.
2-1.7 Static Electricity Control. Adequate precautions shall be taken
Clean - Non-metallic. A non-metallic surface that has been treated to prevent the accumulation and discharge of static electricity as
in a manner so as to be free ofail visible solid residues, liquid, dirt specified in API 2003 and NFPA 77.
and oil.
2-1.8 Electrical Equipment. All electrical equipment used in the
Flammable gas. area, as described in 2-1.1, must meet the requirements of Class I,
Group D, Division I (explosion proof), or approved for hazardous
Hazardous work. service.

53
 N F P A 327 1 A93 TCR

2-1.9 (Was 2-1.4) The cleaning procedure selected from Chapter 3 5-2.2 Electrical Disconnect. All electrical switches supplying
or 5 shall establish and maintain a safe atmosphere within the tank electrical current to submerged pumps a n d / o r other equipment
or container. The atmosphere shall be compatible with the connected to the tank shall be disconnected and locked.
intended purpose in the tank or container during the cleaning
operation. 5-2.$ Removal of Liquid Product. As much product, water and
sediment as possible shall be removed using explosion-proof or air-
2-1.10 (Was 2-1.5 No wording change) driven pumps. Pump motors and suction hoses must be bonded to
the tank to prevent electrostatic ignition hazards as specified in API
2-2 An), equipment that may provide a source of ignition shall not 2003 and NFPA 77. A small quantity of water may be pumped into
be permitted within the vicinity of a tank or container until cleaned. the tank to float the product from a low spot where it can be
pumped from the tank through the tank gauge stick access line.
2-3 (No wording change)
5-2.4 Displacement with Air.
2-3.1 (No wording change)
(a) Removal of Flammable Vapors (Purging). The tank shall be
Chapter 3 Non-Entry Cleaning Procedures thoroughly purged with air to remove flammable vapors. The
concentration of flammable vapors in a tank may go through the
5-1 General. Cleaning operations for tanks or containers that are flammable range before a safe atmosphere is obtained. Precautions
not entered shall be conducted in the open if practicable. Under- shall be taken to eliminate the possibility of static electricity
ground tank cleaning shall be conducted prior to removal from the discharge during gas-freeing procedures as specified in API 2003
ground. No cutting torch equipment shall be used until the tank or and NFPA 77.
container has been completely cleaned free of all sludge, residuals
or other materials that may cause flammable vapors. Where indoor (b) Pressure Limit. Air pressure in the tank must not exceed five
cleaning is necessary, ventilation shall be sufficient to prevent the pounds per square inch gauge. To prevent excess air pressure, the
accumulation of flammable vapors. Ignition Controls, Fire vent line must be checked to make certain it is free from obstruction
Extinguisher, Emergency Communications, Static Electricity and traps.
Control, Electrical Equipment shall be safeguarded from all sources
of ignition while cleaning. (c) Methods. Displacement with air of the tank shall be accom-
plished by one of three methods, as listed below:
3-1.1 (No wording change)
(i) An eductor air mover (see Appendix 1, Figure 1) usually
3-1.2 (No wording change) driven by compressed air, shall be properly bonded to prevent the
5-1.3 (No wording change) tP~hiSsibilityof static electricity generation and discharge. When using
s method on tanks with fill (drop) tubes, the tube shall remain in
3-1.4 (No wording change) place to assure the vapors shall be drawn from the bottom of the
tank. The eductor shall be air tight attached to the fill and an
3-1.5 Safely remove and dispose ofail liquid or solid residue extension shall be used to discharge vapors a minimum of 12 ft
material. above grade and away from any areas that may contain sources of
ignition.
3-2 Removal of Flammable Vapors.
(ii) A diffused air-blower (see Appendix 1, Figure 2) shall have the
3-2.1 Displacement with Water. (No wording change) air-diffusing pipe properly bonded to prevent the possibility of static
electricity generation and discharge. Fill (drop) tubes shall be
5-2.2 Displacement with Air. (No wording change) removed to enhance diffusion of the air in the tank. Air supply shall
be from a compressor, which has been checked to ensure a clean air
3-2.3 Displacement with Inert Gas. (No wording change) supply, free from volatile vapors. Air pressure in the tank must not
exceed five pounds per square inch gauge.
$-2.4 through 54.3 (No wording change)
(iii) A l a n air-blower (see Appendix 1, Figure 3) shall be used to
Chapter 4 Testing Procedures (Non-Envy) blow air into the tank through the fill openm" g of the tank. The fan
shall be driven by compressed air or a Class I, Division 1, Group D,
4-1 Testing for Flammability. The test for flammability is the most approved electric motor. The fan shall be properly bonded to the
important phase of the cleaning procedure and determines whether tank to prevent the possibility of static electricity generation and
o r n o t the cleaning operations described in Chapter 3 have been discharge. Fill (drop) tubes shall be removed to enhance diffusion
effective. (No further wording change). of air in the tank. The lank vent shall be inspected to make sure it is
free of all obstructions. Air pressure in the tank shall not exceed five
Chapter 5 Interior Entry Cleaning of Underground Tanks pounds per square inch gauge.
5-1 General. Cleaning operations of underground tanks that are 5-3 Testing Flammable Vapor Concentrations.
entered shall be conducted prior to removal from the ground.
Where indoor cleaning is necessary, such as under a building, 5-3.1 Tests shall be conducted to determine flammability of the
ventilation shall be sufficient to prevent the accumulation o f vapor in the excavated area and in the tank. Vapor concentrations
flammable vapors. Ignition Controls, Fire Extinguisher, Emergency shall not exceed 10 percent (.10) of the Lower Flammable Limit
Communication, Static Electricity Control, Electrical Equipment during excavation, tank opening, or tank entry. Such test are to be
shall be safeguarded from all sources of ignition while cleaning. made with a combustible gas indicator, which is properly calibrated
on hexane in air and thoroughly checked and maintained in
5-1.1 Prior to excavation or opening the tank the general safety accordance with manufacturer's instructions. Persons responsible
requirements of site conditions shall include Chapter 2 "General for testing must be trained and thoroughly familiar with the use of
Precaution s". the instrument and interpretation of the instrument's readings and
limitations of the types of flammable vapors it is designed to read.
5-1.2 If excavation is necessary to gain access to the top of the tank
for tank envy the access pit shall be a minimum of 4 ft x 4 ft. Prior 5-3.2 Testing Using Eductor (see 5-2.4 (c) (i)). When purging is
to completion of tank denning the entire top of the tank should not being performed by an eductor air mover, the eductor shall create a
be excavated if practicable. (See 5.2.5) vacuum which draws air through at least on tank opening and
discharges through another opening. The tank (LFL) readings shall
5-2 Preparation for Opening the Tank. be conducted with a combustible gas indicator with it's probe placed
5-2.1 Tank Isolation. Before any work on the exterior surface of the into the probe hole provided in the side of the eductor (see
tank begins, tanks must be inspected to determine how the tank is to Appendix 1, Figure 1, Detail l-A). Testing for flammable vapor
be isolated. If a tank is equipped with a manifold vent or fill line or concentrations shall be performed with the eductor on and tightly
siphon assembly, necessary measures must be taken to isolate the secured to the tank's fill drop tube. Readings of 10 percent or less of
tank to be worked on from all other tanks. All product and vapor the lower flammable limit (LFL) must be obtained before the tank is
recovery piping shall be disconnected and blanked off. The vent for considered safe for opening. For opening see 5-4 Opening the
the tank being cleaned shall be isolated from v e n t s for other tanks Tank.
which may still be in service. This may require a temporary separate
vent for the tank being cleaned.

54
 NFPA 327 - - A93 T C R

5-3.3 Testing UsingAir-Blower (see 5-2.4 (c) (ii) and (iii). When it shall be recognized that, if the lank is perforated, product or
purging is being performed by an air-blower, the blower shall force vapors which have leaked into the soil may re-enter the tank through
air into the tank through at least one tank opening and discharge a perforation and that sludge contains flammable liquids. For repair
through at least the vent line opening. The tank (IFL) readings of perforations see API 1631 or NLPA 631. The vent line shall
shall be conducted _wi,_tha com6ustible gas indicator with it's probe remain clear and unobstructed to allow continuous ventilation. All
placed into the tank s vent line. When a reading of 10 percent or other lines and openings shall be plugged or capped off to ensure
less of the lower flammable limit (LFL) is obtained, the air-blower no liquids or vapors may enter the tank.
purge shall be shut off. Readings shall be taken at the bottom,
middle, and upper portions of the tank and the instrument shall be 5-5.3 Sludge Removal. Sludge accumulation on the bottom of the
purged with fresh mr after each reading. If readings in the tank are tank must be removed and placed in approved containers. Removal
being performed through the fill line, the fill tube must be removed. of the sludge shall include removing all visible moisture and liquids
The purge shall be immediately turned on after the last test in the with the use of an oil absorbent material and broom sweeping. After
tank and the tank's vent line thereafter tested. Readings of 10 sludge removal, it shall be recognized that vapors may again build up
percent or less of the lower flammable limit (LFL) must be obtained if ventilation is stopped before Cleaning Tank to a Non-hazardous
in the bottom, middle, upper portion and vent line of the tank Condition described in 5-6 is completed. Disposal and documenta-
before the tank is considered safe for opening. For opening see 5-4 tion shall be in accordance with appropriate local, state and federal
Opening the Tank. regulations.

5-4 Opening the Tank. 5-6 Cleaning Tank to a Non-Hazardous Condition.

5-4.1 Purging Safety. Purging, displacement with air ventilation and 5-6.1 Steel Tank White Metal Blast Cleaning. The entire internal
testing shall continue throughout the entire openinl[, tank entry, tank surface shall be abrasive blasted to a white-metal finish,
cleaning, or hot work operation after cleaning. D u n n g the tank completely free of scale, rust and foreign matter in accordance with
opening operation, minimal air pressure shall be maintained to SSPCSP 5-63. Before abrasive blasting, the tank interior shall be
prevent a blowout when using the air blower method. Personnel thoroughly checked ag~'n with the combustible ~ indicator to
shall never enter a tank without prior adequate ventilation and ensure that no flammable vapors have accumulated in the tank.
ventilation shall be continuous while personnel are in the tank. Abrasive blast operators shall wear approved helmets connected to
sources of clean air. Bonding shall be provided between the blasting
5-4.2 Steel Tank. I f a manway exists, it is now safe to remove the nozzle and the work surface or the blasting nozzle shall be effectively
bolts and lid. If no manway exists in a tank, an opening with the grounded to provide equivalent protection from static charges.
minimum dimension of 18 in. x 18 in. shall be cut in the top. The
tank section to be removed should be marked square with chalk, and 5-6.2 Following completion of the abrasive blastifig operation, the
a hole drilled with an air-driven drill at one corner of the section abrasive material shall be removed and the surface brushed with a
using lubricating oil to reduce friction, heat and possible sparks. clean brush constructed of hair bristle, or fiber, and there after
After the hole is drilled, the tank vapors must again be tested by blown with compressed air a n d / o r vacuumed until all visible dust
inserting the meter probe into the drilled hole at least 24 in. and residuals are removed from the tanks's surface.
verify the vapor concentration reading is less than 10 percent of the
lower flammable limit (LFL) before proceeding with the Cutting 5-6.3 Steel Tank Non-Hazardous Condition. Following completion
Manway Opening. (see 5-4.4.) of 5-6.2 the tank may be entered for non-hazardous work without
positive-pressure air-supplied eqt~ipment if it has been determined
5-4.3 Fibergiass Tank. If no manway exists in a fibergiass tank, the that:
minimum 18-in. x 18-in. opening shall be cut through the end cap at
least 12 in. from any rib. I. The vapor indicator registers a zero reading of the percent of
the lower flammable limit within the tank and the work area~
5-4.4 Cutting Manway Opening. The tank shall be cut usin[g an air-
driven saber or snipper, using lubricating oil to reduce friction, heat 2. Oxygen content is at least 19.5.
and prevent possible sparks. P r i o r to the final cut, the plate shall be
supported to prevent its falling into the tank. No cutting torch or 3. Continuous Ventilation, Tank Isolation and Electrical Discon-
other flame-producing equipment shall be used for tank opening. nect is maintained.

Danger. cutting torches, carborundum cutting wheels, air 4. There is no product or vapor entering the tank or the work area
cutting chisels, are examples of tools which are not acceptable such as through tank perforauons. For repair of perforations see
for cuttingopenings into tanks that do not meet the require- API 1631 or NLPA 631.
ments of 5-6.2.
5. There are no odors caused by vapors or toxic gases detected by
5-5 Tank Entry. personnel within the work area or the tank. Personnel without
positive-pressure air supplied equipment shall immediately exit the
5-5.1 Pre-entry Procedures. Before entering tanks, the procedure tank upon any detection of any liquid, vapor or toxic gas within the
described in API Publication 2015A, "A Guide for Controlling the tank or within the work area.
Lead Hazard Assodated with Tank Entry and Cleaning", ANSI
Zl17.1, "Safety Requirements for workingin Tanks and Other 5-6.3 Fiberglass Tank Gleaning. The entire internal tank surface
Confined Spaces, and NIOSH "CriteriaFor A Recommended shall be washed clean free of scale and foreign matter. If scale or
Standard Working in Confined Spaces ~ shall be followed. This f o r e i ~ matter is not removed by washing the tank, it shall be
includes checking the oxygen content inside the tank with a abrasive blasted removing all scale and foreign matter.
properly calibrated oxygen monitor. Ventilation shall include
drawingvapors from the bottom of the tank at all times to assure 5-7 Tank Entry Closing.
vapors heavier than air are removed from the bottom of the tank
area. At all times, personnel entering a tank shall be equipped with 5-7.1 An anti-corrosion stick line steel plate 1 / 4 in. thick, rolled to
positive-pressure air-supplied equipment with full-face enclosure and the contour of the tank and having minimum dimensions of 8 in. x 8
safety harness c o n n e c t e d t o a safety line held by a standby person in. shall be installed in accordance with NLPA 631 or API 1631.
outside the tank during cleaning or other hazardous conthtions. Oil
and water-resistant boots and gloves shall be worn. Protective 5-7.2 If an opening has been cut, the tank shall be closed as follows:
clothing resistant to the product stored in the tank shall cover the
arms, legs, torsos, and heads of personnel entering the tank. (a) Steel Tank.
Disposable protective dothing, impervious to the stored product, is
required. Personnel clothing which becomes saturated with the 1. A 1 / 4 in. thick steel cover plate, rolled to the contour of the
stored product shall be removed immediately. All personnel tank, shall be made to overlap the manhole at least 2 in. on each
working inside a tank should be familiar with safety procedures in side (e.g., the cover plate should measure at least 26 in. x 26 in. if
API Publication 2217. All clothing shall meet the requirements of manhole is cut 22 in. x 22 in.). The cover plate shall have 3 / 4 in.
NFPA 77 Static Electricity. diameter holes not exceeding 5 in. centers, 1 in. from the edge of
the cover. See Figures 4 a n d 5.
5-5.2 Post-entry Procedures. Tests with the combustible
indicator and oxygen monitor shall be performed periothcally in the 2. The cover shall be used as a template to locate the bolt hole
tank to ascertain that the tank vapors and oxygen content are 10 pattern when drilling bolt holes into the tank around the manhole.
percent or less of the lower flammable limit. During sludge removal,

55
 N F P A 327 - - A93 T C R

3. The cover plate shall be sandblasted to white metal on both 2.2 Certified Nondestructive Testing, Level I competence in
sides as well as the top exterior of the tank around the manhole and accordance with the guidelines specified by the American Society for
at least 6 in. beyond where the lid is to be placed on the tank. The Nondestructive Testing, Recommended Practice No. SNT-TCd A,
entire outer surface of the tank shall be trowelled where the lid is to Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing.
be bolted securely to the tank. The trowel material shall be of either Qualification requirements shall be limited to ultrasonic thickness
polyester or epoxy material certified by the material manufacturer as gauging; and
compatible with the material being stored and acceptable for the
herein described use. 2.3 The employer shall establish and maintain a written training
program for administration of training, examination, and certifica-
4. Before the trowel on the cover cures, the cover shall be fastened tion of tank entry, surface preparation, inspection, closure, and
to the tank using 3 / 8 in. (minimum) diameter bolts with wasfiers to nondestructive testing of personnel annually; and
an the 3 / 4 in. holes in the cover plate. (See Figure 4 for Self-
ping Bolts). When not using self-tapping bolis, the bolt shafts 2.4 The employer certification program shall be approved by the
are to be placed through the holes from the inside of the tank and implementing agency.
held in place by spring clips, then fastened with washers and nuts.
(See Figure 5 for Nuts andBoits) 3.0 Equipment Specification.
5. After being bolted to the tank, the cover plate and surrounding 3.1 Equipment used for flaw detection shall meet the following
minimum 6 in. tank surface shall be properly coated with coating minimum requirements:
material or trowel and allowed to cure before backfilling the hole.
Note the surrounding O in. tank surface should be clean SP-5 (White Test Frequencies: 1, 2, 5, 10 MHZ and Wideband (.4 to 15MHz)
Metal Sandblast before trowel is applied).
Test Range: .25, .5, 1, 2.5, 5, 10, 50 in..25 in. to over 250 in. steel
(b) Fiberglass Tank. Fiberglass reinforced plastic tanks shall be (25 to fi000 mm).
closed in the following manner.
Delay Range: 0.to 50 in. steel
1. The removed section of the end cap and a minimum 6 in. of
the adjoining tank wall surface shall be abrasive blasted. Linearity: Vertical: Less than +/- 2% Horizontal: Less than +/- 1%

2. The cut edges of the end cap and the section that was removed L i n e ~ Reject: Adjustable 0 to 100% Full Screen Height
shall be sealed with resin material prior to replacing the section in
the tank. The resin material shall be of either polyester or epoxy Pulse Repetition Rate: Calibrated: Switch Selectable 125. 250, 500,
material certified by the material manufacture as compatible with 1K, 2K, 4KPulses per sec.
the material being stored and acceptable for the herein described
Use. Pulser: Tunable Square Wave 250V.

3. The entry hole shall be closed by replacing the e n d cap section Interface Sweep Start
that was previously removed. Display Mode: Halfwave +, -, Full wave and filtered display modes.
4. The seams of the area of the entry bole shall be reinforced by Termination: (damping) 100 ohms fixed, 10 to 250 ohms variable.
application off'we plies of I 1/2 ounce matting saturated with resin
material followed by application 24-ounce fiberglass woven roving Flaw alarm mode: audible and visible alarm indicators.
and resin material. The fiberglass reinforcing cloth shall be treated
with silane to ensure compatibility with the resin material. 4.0 Surface Preparation.

5. Each application of fiberglass reinforcement shall be rolled to 4.1 After the tank has been emptied, the interior tank surfaces shall
remove any entrapped air bubbles greater then 1/16 in. in diameter. be cleaned until all scale is removed from the surface and pits.

Chapter 6 Reference Publications 5.0 Gouplant.

6-1 (was 5-1 no wording change) 5.1 As thin a couplant layer as possible (to exclude air) shall be used
between the transducer and the specimen under test.
6-1.1 (was 5-1.1 no wording change)
6.0 Calibration Blocks
6-2 (was 5-2 add API 1631 and NLPA 631)
6.1 The calibration block shall be acoustically equivalent to the
Appendix A specimen being gauged.
Safeguarding for Cathodic Protection 7.0 Flaw Detection Objective.
Flash Detection Report
7.1 The objective of flaw detection is to assure the tank walls are free
1.0 Scope. of holes, deep pits or severe external pitting. Inspection of the wall
is to establish that there are no deep pits penetrating 50 percent or
1.1 The procedures described herein concern themselves with the greater into the original steel tank wall.
interior inspection of underground steel tanks 10 years of age or
older for the requirements of 40 ~ 280.21 (b) (2) (i) internal 8.0 Ultra-Sonic Flaw Detection Procedure.
inspection for retrofit cathodic protection. Corrosion mechanisms
affecting underground tanks do not usually take the form of a 8.1 Flaw detection measurements of tank cylinder shall be taken
uniform loss, therefore it is necessa_,y to use Ultrasonic Flaw over the entire interior tank wall surfaces. Measurements shall begin
Detecti6n on the interior surfaces of the tank walls to establish if any at the bottom center of the tank and shall extend outward around
perforation or severe deep pit corrosion exists. It is a method to the tank circumference and along the tank length to and including
identify deep pits that can result in holes in the near future. The the ends of the tank.
flaw detection inspection is used to identify holes that cannot visually
be detected. Ultrasonic Flaw Detection is a laboratory precision test 8.2 Gouplant may be applied to the transducer or directly to the
that may be used to establish that a tank is suitable for cathodic tank or water between the transducer and tanks surface.
protection alone as an upgrading measure,
8.3 The transducer is then placed against the tank wall moving the
2.0 Personnel Qualification: transducers over the entire interior surfaces.
2.1 Personnel shall be certified by National Leak Prevention 8.4 An audible and visible alarm indicator shall generate alarms
Association in accordance with the guidelines specified in NLPA when the metal loss of 50 percent or greater of the original tank wall
Draft 632 '~nternal Inspection", receiving a Qualification Certificate thickness is detected.
from NLPA; or

56
 NFPA 327 - - A93 T C R

8.5 All pits with depths 20 percent or greater of the original wall Foreword
thickness shall be r e c o r d e d o n the Metal Thickness and Pitting
Report identifying the 3 ft x 3 ft section in which the corrosion Since the federal Environmental Protection Agency developed
pitting or thin metal is located. regulations for underground storage tanks, many tank owners have
chosen to remove their tanks for disposal elsewhere. Unfortunately,
9.0 Reports. in some instances, fatalities have resulted from careless practices
associated with this task.
9.1 Any pit depth over 20 percent of the original tank wall thickness
shall be recorded on the Metal Thickness and Pitting Report. Incidents have occurred because of neglect during cleaning
operations, safel~tgr, dingoperations, and transport of the tank.
9.2 Inspection reports shall be maintained for reference. Computer Explosions and injurieshave also resulted from carelessness during
recording, file maintenance, and retrieval may be utilized in lieu of removal, tank repair, scrapping, or disposal. Proper cleaning and
the report forms in Figures 2.3 and 2.3a. continual verification of a safe atmosphere are prudent operations
designed to avoid such needless tragedies.
10.0 Pass/Fail Criteria.
These procedures are intended for cleaning of small tanks or
10.1 A tank will be considered acceptable for cathodic protection containers that cannot be entered, and that have contained
without interior lining if: flammable or combustible liquids. The use of the word "small" has
been historically interpreted two distinct ways:
10.2 (a) There is no internal or external pitting greater than 50
percent of the original metal tank wall thickness; and 1. Tanks so small that h u m a n entry cannot be made.
2. Any tank capacity that can be effectively and safely cleaned
(b) The average metal tank wall thickness is greater than 85 without h u m a n entry.
p~rcent of the original wall thickness for each 3 ft x 3 ft section of
e tank. A critical concern is the maximum tank capacity capable of
effectively being cleaned. Industry experts have noted that most
AFFIDAVIT fatalities resulted when working with tanks larger than 42 in.,
without entry, suggesting that larger tanks, when not entered, are
I, , the undersigned, certify riskier to clean and safeguard than smaller tanks. The Committee
that I have performed the inspection in accordance with NFPA 327 on Tank Leakage and Repair Safeguards has tried to address the
and the tank is acceptable for upgrading by cathodicprotection in tank size issue, but could not form a definitive conclusion as to its
accordance with NFPA Standard 327 Appendix A, a n d the tank has effect on safety.
met the following:
Some fatalities may have simply resulted from careless practices
(a) The tank exterior a n d / o r interior metal wall had no pits that ignored the standard procedures in NFPA 327. However, this
greater than 50 percent of the original tank metal wall thickness; fact in itself suggests that extreme caution must be used when
and safeguarding tanks without entry, even where entry is not restricted
by size.
(b) The average tank metal wall thickness is greater than 85
percent of the original ~all thickness for each $ f t x 3 ft section of In addition, a standard procedure was developed in NFPA 327A for
the tank. safe entry of underground storage tanks that remain underground.
A tank which is made safe enough to permit a wide range of ensuing
The tank or , the criteria work (i.e., lining, repairs, abrasive blasting, etc.) while u n d e r g r o u n d
listed above. will also eliminate or reduce risks to public safety the tank has been
removed from the ground. In all situations, the internal under-
Passed Failed ground storage tank atmosphere must be checked continually and a
safe atmosphere maintained.
Signed this _ _ day of ,19. SUBSTANTIATION: The Foreword explains some of the mtionaie
for the development of NFPA 327.
C O M M r r r E E A C T I O N : Accept.

Owner or Authorized Agent Inspector

NOTE: Owner should be provided with this Affidavit as part of his 327- 4- (1-1 Purpose): Accept
tank inspection records for compliance with 40 CFR 280.21 SUBMrTrER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
(b) (2) (i). Safeguards
SUBSTANTIATION: None. RECOMMENDATION: Relocate Section 1-1, Purpose, to Section
COMMITI'EE ACTION: Accept in Principle by means of the 1-2.
adoption of the proposed new document NFPA 327A, Standard SUBSTANTIATION: Compliance with NFPA Manual of Style.
Procedures for the Safe Entry of Underground Storage Tanks. COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept.
C O M M r r r E g STATEMENT: The Committee's review of the
submitter's proposed rewrite of NFPA 327, Standard Procedures for
Cleaning and Safeguarding Small Tanks and Containers, led to the (Log # 2)
development of the proposed new NFPA 327A. NFPA 327A 327- 5 - (1-2): Accept
addresses the particular issues identified by the submitter. SUBMITrER: Thomas F. Bresnahan, Des Plalnes, IL
RECOMMENDATION: Add a reference to ANSI Zl17.1, Confined
Spaces.
SUBSTANTIATION: A cross reference to ANSI Zl17.1 is germane
327- 2- (Tide): Accept to this document.
SUBMITrER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair COMMITrEE ACTION: Accept.
Safeguards
RECOMMENDATION: Change title to read:
"Standard Procedures for Cleaning or Safeguarding Small Tanks
and Containers Without Entry." 327- 0 - (1-2 Scope): Accept
SUBSTANTIATION: Addition of the words ~ i t h o u t Entry" is SUBMrlWER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
necessary to prevent confusion with NFPA 327A, which does cover Safeguards
safe tank entry. RECOMMENDATION: Relocate Section 1-2, Scope, to Section 1-1
C o M M r I T E E ACq'ION: Accept. and reword as follows:
1-1 Scope. These procedures shall apply only to the cleaning or
m k safeguarding of small tanks or containers that are not entered, that
have contained flammable or combustible liquids, and that might
32% 3 - (Foreword): Accept contain flammable or combustible vapors or residues.
SUBMrITER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair These procedures shall not apply to the cleaning or safeguarding of
g, ards tanks that are entered; tank vehides or tank cars; tanks, bunkers, or
NDATION: Add Foreword as follows: compartments on ships or barges; gas plant equipment or gas

57
 NFPA 327 - - A93 TCR

distribution systems for natural or manufactured gas; compressed SUBffrANTIATION: It is intended that all potential sources of
and liquefied gas cylinders. Procedures for cleaning or safeguarding ignition, including electrical equipment, should be moved.
some of these tanks are covered separately in the following COMMITI'EE Ac'rION: Accept.
publications:
(a) API RP 2015, Safe Entry and Cleaning of Petroleum Storage
Tanks.
(b) API RP 2013, Gleaning Tank Vehicles Used for Transportation 327- 13 - (5-1.4): Accept
of Flammable Liquids. SUBMITrER: Techtucal Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
(c) API RP 1031, Interior Lining of Underground Storage Tanks. Safeguards
(d) NFPA 306, Standard for the Control of Gas Hazards on Vessels. RECOMMENDATION: In the second sentence, replace the word
(e) AGA "Purging Prindples and Practices," 1954. "available" with the word "provided".
(f) NFPA 327A, Standard Procedures for the Safe Entry of SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial Correction.
Underground Storage Tanks. COMMITI~E ACTION: Accept.
(g) NLPA 631, Entry, Cleaning, Interior Inspection, Repair, and
Lining of Underground Storage Tanks.
(h) ANSI Z117.1, American National Standard Safety Require-
ments for Confined Spaces. 327- 14- (5-1.5): Accept
(i) OSHARegulations, 29 CFR 1910.146. SUBMITI'ER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
SUBSTANTIATION: Relocation of Scope is to comply with NFPA ATIds
Manual of Style. Rewording of Scope is to more clearly estabfish that ON: Revise to read:
NFPA 327 is applicable to those tanks that are handled without "Properly dispose of all liquids, rinseates, solid residues, and vapors
entry. Rewording of Scope also more explidtiy states what is not that are generated as a result of these cleaning and safeguarding
covered and directs user to other publications. procedures."
COMMrlTEE ACTION: Accept. SUBSTANTIATION: This proposed revision is more comprehen-
sive than the previous language and includes rinse water from
cleaning operations.
327- 7 - (1-3 Definitions): Accept COMMrlTF..E ACTION: Accept.
SUBMITTER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
Safeguards
RECOMMENDATION: Change term "Flammable Gas" to "Flam-
mable Vapors". 327- 15 - (5-2.1): Accept
SUBSTANTIATION: Editorial correction. The standard uses the SUBMrITER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
term vapors, not gases. Safeguards
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. RECOMMENDATION: Delete second sentence.
SUBSTANTIATION: This sentence is not necessary to this
standard.
COMMrlTEE A c r I O N : Accept.
327- 8 - (1-3 Inert Gas): Accept
SUB~: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
Safeguards
RECOMMENDATION: In definition of "Inert Gas , re,lace the 327-16 - (S-3.4): Accept
words "chemically inactive" with the word "non-reactive . S U B ~ : Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
S~ANTIATION: More precise terminology. Safeguards
COMMrl'rEE ACTION: Accept. RECOMMENDATION: Add the word "fire" after "carbon dioxide".
S~ANTIATION: Editorial clarity.
COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept.
327- 9 - (1-4): Accept
SUBMITIER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
Safeguards 327- 17- (5-4): Accept
RECOMMENDATION: Add at the beginning of the sentence: SUBMrrrER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
~l'he interior of and, in some cases, the exterior o f . . . ' . Safeguards
SU]Kb'TANTIATION: NFPA 327 is applicable to cleaning on REODMM]ENDATION: In the last sentence, add "a continuous air
exterior surfaces of small tanks and containers. purge or" before "inert atmosphere".
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. SUBSTANTIATION: A continuous air purge provides equivalent
~ tection to an inert atmosphere.
MMITrEE ACTION: Accept.
327- 10 - (2-1.2): Accept
SUB~: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
Safeguards 327-18 - (3-4): Accept
RECOMMENDATION: Add a new last sentence: SUBMITrER= Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
"Special procedures for cleaning may be require&" Safeguards
SUBSTANTIATION: The addedsentence extends the warning RECOMMENDATION: Add the following to the end of Section ~g4:
pcrovided by this subsection. "CALrlqON: Steam cleaning, chemical cleaning, and high pressure
O M M I T r F ~ ACTION: Accept. water blasting can generate static electric charges. (See Section 4.2.7
Of API Publication 2015, Safe Entry and Cleaning of Petroleum
Storage Tanks.)"
SUBb~ANTIATION: This warning to the operator is critical for
327- 11 - (2-3): Accept safety. These modes of cleaning are recognized as being able to
SUBMITrER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair generate dangerous static charges that can lead to an explosion.
Safeguards COMMITI~E ACTION: Accept.
RECOMMENDATION: Revise first sentence to read:
"I'o ensure a safe condition for hazardous work within, on, or near.
SlJBSTANTIATION: The user should understand that hazardous 327- 19- (5-4.1): Accept
conditions are not limited to the interior of the tank or container, $ U B ~ : Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
but may extend to the immediately surrounding area. Safeguards
COMMrlTEE ACTION: Accept. RECOMMF.~IDATION: In the lastsentence, after the word
"condensed", add "before the test is made. (See CALYI'ION in 3-4)."
SUBSTANTIATION: 1. Editorial clarity.
2. The warning statement in 3-4 is appropriate for this operation
327- 12 - (~-1.1): Accept also.
SUBMITrER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair COMMITrEE ACTION: Accept.
NDATION: Delete last sentence.

58
 NFPA 327 Q A93 TCR

327- 20 - (5-4.2): Accept Some fatalities may have simply resulted from careless practices
S U B M r r r g R : Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair that ignored the standard procedures set forth in NFPA 327.
W ATIds However, this fact in itself suggests that extreme caution must be
ON: After the second to last sentence, add: used when safeguarding tanks without entry, even where entry is not
"(See CAUTION in ~-4.)" restricted by size.
SUBSTANTIATION: The warning statement is appropriate for
these operations as well. In addition, a standard procedure was developed in NFPA 327A for
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. safe entry of underground storage tanks that remain underground.
A tank that is made safe enough to permit a wide range of ensuing
work (i.e., lining, repairs, abrasive blasting, etc.) while underground
will also eliminate or reduce risks to public safety after the tank has
327- 21 - (3-4.2.4): Accept been removed from the ground. In all situations, the internal
SUBMrITER: Technical Committee o n Tank Leakage and Repair underground storage tank atmosphere must be checked continually
Safetmarasds a n d a safe atmosphere maintained.
REC~OMMENDATION: -Revise last sentence to read:
"Continue steaming at maximum temperature for at least 15 Qhapter I General Provisions
minutes or until the point is reached when.. 7.
SUBSTANTIATION: This version is much more d e a r as to the level I-I Scope. These procedures shall apply only to the cleaning or
of protection to be achieved. safeguarding of small tanks or containers that are not entered, that
COM'MIT'fEE ACTION: Accept. have contained flammable or combustible liquids, and that might
contain flammable or combustible vapors or residues.
These procedures shall not apply to the cleaning or safeguarding of
527- 22 - (Entire DocumenO: Accept tanks that are entered; tank vehides or tank cars; tanks, bunkers, or
SUBMIWrER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair c o m p S , ents on ships or barges; gas plant equipment or gas
Safeguards distribution systems for natural or manufactured gas; or to com-
RECOMMENDATION: Revise the 1987 edition of NFPA 527 as pressed and liquefied gas cylinders. Procedures for cleaning or
shown in the following preprint, which incorporates all of the safeguarding some of these tanks are covered separately in the
preceding substantive amendments and appropriate editorial following publications:
changes.
SUBSTANTIATION: The following preprint is provided to allow (a) AG& ~ r ~ , ~ P , m ~ a,~ P r ~
the reviewer the ability to review NFPA 3~7 in its entirety and to
allow comparison of this text with the text of proposed new NFPA (b) ANSI ZllT.1, AmericanNational Standard Safe~ Requirementsfor
327A, Standard Procedures for the Safe Entry of Underground ~ st,,~
Storage Tanks.
COMMITTEE ACTION: Accept. (c) API 1631, Inmior Lining of Undergroumt StorageTanks
(d) API 2013, Ciaming Mobile Tanks inflammable or C.omb~tible
L / ~ / ~ Sm,/ce

NFPA 327 (e) API 2015, SafeEntvy and C~aning of PetroleumStorage Tanks
Standmd Procedmx~ for (O NFPA 306, Standard for tlw Controlof Gas Hazards on Vessds
Cleaaiag or Safeguarding
Small Tanks and Containers (g) NFPA 327A, Standard Proe.~lur~for aw SafeEntry of ~ e ~ T u n d
Without ]gntry Stom~ Tan~
NOTICE= Information on referenced publications can be found in (h) NLPA 631, End, ~ InUriorlmpu~on, Rq,air ana Lining
Chapter 5. of Underground Storage Tanks
Foreword (i) OSHA, Cod* ofFcdcrallhgulatio~ "Fttie 29, Part 1910.146,
"Requirements for Permit Required Confined Spaces."
Since the federal Environmental Protection Agency developed
regulations for u n d e r , r o u n d storage tanks, many tank owners have 1-2 Purpose. The proceduresdescribed herein address the safe
chosen to remove their tanks for disposal elsewhere. Unfortunately, removal of flammable vapors, liquids, gases, or solids from small
in some instances, fatalities have resulted from careless practices tanks, drums or other containers, and safeguarding these vessels b y
associated with this task. other means. Such procedures are to permit hazardous work
(welding or cutting) or other work that may create a potential fire or
Incidents have occurred because of neglect durin~ deaning explosion hazard; and where necessary, for change of service or
operations, safeguarding operations, a n d transporting of the tank. where desired for any other purpose.
Explosions and injurieshave also resulted from carelessness during
removal, tank repair, scrapping, or disposal. Proper cleaning and 1-3 Def'mitions. For the purpose of this standard, the following
continual verification of a safe atmosphere are prudent operations definitions shall apply:
designed to avoid such needless tragedies.
Bonding. The electrical interconnection (metallic bond wire or
These procedures are intended for cleaning of smail tanks or metal-to-metal contact) between two conductors that would
containers that are not entered, that have contained flammable or otherwise be electrically isolated from each other.
combustible liquids, a n d that might contain flammable or combus-
tible vapors or residues. The use of the word "small" has been Flammable Vapors. Any substance that exists in the gaseous state at
historically interpreted two distinct ways: normal atmospheric temperature and pressure and that is capable of
being ignited and rapidly oxidized when mixed with proper
1. Tanks too small for human entry. proportions of air, oxygen, or other oxidizers.
2. Any tank capacity that can be effectively and safely cleaned
without human entry. Hazardous Work. Work involving a source of ignition that may
include open flames, cutting, and welding, sparking electrical
A critical concern is the maximum tank capacity capable of equipment, grinding, buffing, drilling, chipping, sawing, or other
effectively being cleaned without entry. Industry experts have noted similar operations that may create hot metal sparks or surfaces from
that most fatalities resulted where working with tanks larger than friction or impact.
42 in., without entry, suggesting that larger tanks, where not
entered, are riskier to clean and safeguard than smaller tanks. The Inert Gas. Any gas that is nonflammable, nonreactive, and
Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair Safeguards has tried to noncontarninating for the use intended.
address the tank size issue but has been unable to form a definitive
conclusion as to its effect on safety. Inerting. A technique by which a combustible mixture is rendered
nontguitible by the addition of an inert gas.

$0
 N F P A 327 m A 9 3 T C R

Liquid. For the purpose of this standard, any material that has a 2-1.$ Tanks or containers that have contained reactive or unstable
fluidity greater than that of 300 penetration asphalt when tested in materials shall not be cleaned until information is obtained on safe
accordance with ASTM D5, Testfor Pendra&mfor Biturainous cleaning procedures. Special precautions are required for the
Matnial,t Where not otherwise identified, the term "liquid" shall selection of nonreactive cleaning materials.
mean both flammable and combustible liquids.
2-1.4 The cleaning procedures selected from Chapter 3 shall
C o m b ~ k L/fu/d. A liquid having a closed-cup flash point at or establish and maintain a safe amaosphere within the tank or
above 100"F (-37.8°C). Combustible liquids shall be subdivided container. The atmosphere shall be compatible with the intended
as follows: purpose of the tank or container cleaning operation.
Class II liquids shall i n d u d e those liquids having closed-cup
flash points at or above 100°F (37.8°C) and below 140°F (80°C). 2-1.5 After cleaning, the tank or container shall be inspected
Class IliA liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup internally to determine the effectiveness of such cleaning. Special
flash points at or above 140°F (60°C) and below 200°F (93.4°C). precautions are required. Such inspection shall be permitted to be
Class IIIB liquids shall include those liquids having flash points made with the aid of a flashlight, or with an internal inspection lamp
above 200°F (93.4°C). approved for Class I, Division 1 hazardous locations, or with a mirror
FlamraableLifuid. A liquid having a closed-cup flash point below to reflect light into the container. (See3-4.2.6)
100°F (37.8°C) and having a Reid vapor pressure not exceeding
40 psia (2068.8 m m Hg) at 100°F (37.8°C), as determined by 2-2 Any equipment that might provide a source of ignition shall not
ASTM D$23, Standard Method of Testfor VaporPressureof Petroleura be permitted within the vicinity of a tank or container being cleaned
Products (Reid Method). Flammable liquids shall be subdivided as until the area has been tested and found to be vapor free.
follows:
Class iA liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup I 2-3 To ensure a safe condition for hazardous work within, on, or
flash points below 73"F (22.8°C) and boiling points below 100°F near the tank or container, tests shall be made for flammable vapors,
(37.8°(3). generally with the appropriate combustible gas indicator, (1) before
Class IB liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup commencing alterations or repairs; (2) immediately before and after
flash points below 73°F (22.8°C) and boiling points at or above starting any welding, cutting, or heating operations; and (3) fre-
100°F (37.8°C). quently during the course of the work. Allwork shall be stopped
Class IC liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup immediately when the presence of flammable vapors is indicated by
flash points at or above 73°F (22.8°C). tests with a combustible gas indicator. The source of the vapor
release shall then be located and removed.
Purging. The process of displacing the flammable vapors from an
enclosure. 2-3.1 Tanks or containers that have held high flash point liquids
might become hazardous during cutting or welding operations or
Unstable (reactive) liquid. A liquid that, in the pure state or as when heated.
commercially produced or transported, will vigorously polymerize,
decompose, condense, or will become self-reactive under conditions Chapter 3 Cleaning Procedures
of shock, pressure, or temperature.
3-1 General. Cleaning operations shall be conducted in the open, if
1-4 Purpose and Extent of Cleaning. The interior of and, in some practicable. Where indoor cleaning is necessary, ventilation shall be
cases, the exterior of small tanks and containers might be cleaned in sufficient to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors.
preparation for hazardous work, change in tank or container service,
or for other purposes. 3-1.1 Disconnect or remove sources of ignition from the vicinity of
the tank or container before venting or cleaning operations are
1-4.1 Cleaning in Preparation for Hazardous Work. Cleaning of a t started.
tank or container prior to hazardous work that might involve a
potential source o f ignition shall remove flammable vapors and 3-1.2 Take appropriate steps to protect personnel from harmful
liquid or solid residues that might release additional flammable exposure to toxic or corrostve vapors or gases.
vapors.
3-1.3 Empty and drain the tank or container of all contents. This
1-4.2 Cleaning for Change in Service. Cleaning of a tank or shall include removal of liquids or gases from any internal piping,
container for change in service shall remove residues that could traps, and standpipes. Flushing with a proper cleaning liquid might
contaminate or be incompatible with new material in the tank or be necessary.
container. Selection of a cleaning procedure shall take into
consideration the chemical nature and characteristics of the known 3-1.4 Disconnect, plug, or blank offali piping and other connec-
or suspected contaminating material. tions to the tank or container being cleaned. Reliance shall not be
placed on valves to prevent flow of material unless a double valve
1-4.3 Cleaning for Other Purposes~ In some cases, where empty ] block and bleed arrangement is provided.
containers are to be transported or stored, it might be necessary to
clean them. Selection of a cleaning procedure shall take into 3-1.5 Properly dispose of all liquids, rinseates, solid residues, and
consideration the intended use of the container, chemical and vapors that are generated as a result of these cleaning and safeguard-
physical properties of the new material to be stored, and the known ing procedures.
or suspected contaminating material.
3-2 Removal of Flammable Vapors.
Chapter 2 General Precautions
3-2.1 Displacement with Water. Where the liquid or gas previously
2-1 Work on tanks or containers that have held liquids or gases shall contalnedis known to be readily displaced by or easily soluble in
be performed under the supervision of persons who understand the water, it can be removed by completely filling the container with
fire and explosion potential involved. Personnel shall be sufficiently I water and draining, repeating the operation several times. Under
skilled to safely carry out the operations necessary. The characteris- some circumstances, hot work may be performed on tanks or
tics of the previous contents of the tank or container shall be containers completely filled with water. Where this method is used,
determined. extreme care should be taken to eliminate any vapor spaces by
Pthr~vidingproper venting or by positioning of the container during
2-1.1 Before cleaning work is started on tanks or containers that e filling operation.
might be under pressure, the pressure shall be reduced to atmo-
spheric. The tank or container contents shall be vented to a safe 3-2.2 Displacement with Air. Gas fleeing may be accomplished by
location. purging with air, and a safe atmosphere may be sustained by
continuing the ventilation. Where openings of sufficient size are
2-1.2 Information on cleaning tanks or containers that have held available, air movers that do not provide an ignition source shall be
nitrocellulose, pyroxylin soluuons, nitrates, chlorates, perchlorates, attached so that air is drawn through one opening and discharged
peroxides, and other materials that might contain enough oxygen to through another opening. Where openings cannot accommodate
support combustion in an otherwise inerted atmosphere shall b e an air mover, the container shall be purged by introducing air so
obtained before cleaning operations are started. Special procedures that it will circulate through the tank or container and be clischarged
for cleaning might be reqmr'ed. to the outside. When air purging, the concentration of vapor in air
in the tank or container might go through the flammable range

60
 N F P A 327 - - A93 T C R

before a safe atmosphere is obtained; therefore, every precaution $-4.2 C~emical Cleaning. If chemical cleaning is used, the use of
shall be taken to ensure that all ignition sources have been removed goggles, gloves, and other necessary protective clothing shall be
from the vicinity. An effective bond shall be maintained between the considered in order to guard against possible injury to the skin or
air mover and the tank or container being cleaned. eyes. When using a proprietary clean|ng solution, the
manufacturer's instructions shall be followed. (S~ CAUTIONIn
5-2.$ Displacement with I n e ~ Gas, To minimize the hazards of ~ t i o n 3-4.) Typical cleaning procedures using trisodium phosphate
passing through the flammable range, the tank or container can be are specified in 5-4.2.1 through 5-4.2.8.
first purged with an inert gas, and then ventilated with air.
5-4.2.1 Insert the hose through the filling connection or vent and
$-2.4 Flammable vapors may be d i s p l a ~ d by an adequate supply of fill the container with water until it overflows. Extend the hose to
steam in accordance with 3-4.1. the bottom of the tank or container to promote agitation from the
bottom upward, causing any remaining vapor, liquid, scum, or
Inerting of Vapor Space. If properly used, inerting is a means of sludge t o b e carried upward and out of the tank or container where
safeguarding a container by reducing the oxygen content to the it may be removed to a safe location.
point where combustion cannot take place. However, individuals in
direct charge of the work must be thoroughly familiar with the $-4.2.2 Drain the tank of container.
limitations and characteristics of the inert gas being used. The
oxygen content shall be maintained at substantially zero during the 5-4.2.$ Dissolve sufficient trisodium phosphate in hot water so that
entire period that work is in progress. Attempting such work - the final concentration of the solution will be 2 to 4 oz/gal (60 to
without proper knowledge or equipment can be hazardous, since it 120 ml/L) when the tank or container is liquid full. Pour the
may create a false sense of security. Permissible inert gases com- solution into the tank or container a n d fill with water.
monly used are carbon dioxide and nitrogen. Both can be obtained
in cylinders and in truck tanks. Carbon dioxide can also be obtained $-4.2.4 Introduce steam to the bottom of the tank or container
in solid form. Briefly, the procedures for inerting are specified in either through a bottom connection or through a pipe to the
3-3.1 through 3-3.7: bottom that enters the vessel through the filling connection or
through the vent. Maintain the solution at a temperature of 170 ° to
5-$.1 Close all openings in the tanks or containers, with the 190°F (76.7 ° to 87.8°C), and, at intervals during the steaming, add
exception of the filling connection and vent. enough water to allow discharge by overflowing of any volatile liquid,
scum, or sludge that may have collected at the top. Ventilation of
5-$.2 Plug all cracks or other damaged sections. the area shall be provided for the removal of any flammable vapors
and means shall be provided for preventing potentially hazardous
5-$.$ Introduce the inert gas into the tank or container through a material from entermg a public sewer system. It might be advisable
pipe or hose extending to a point near the bottom of the tank or in some cases to discharge the overflow water into another tank or
container so that the inert gas produces a substantially oxygen-free container. Continue steaming at maximum temperature for at least
atmosphere in the container. Any metal components of the filling 15 minutes or until the Doint is reached when no appreciable
pipe or hose shall be bonded to the tank or container. amount of volatile liquid, scum, or sludge appears at the top of the
tank or container.
5-.$.4 When using carbon dioxide, use low pressure to avoid
generation of static electricity. Portable carbon dioxide fire 5-4.2.5 Drain the container.
extinguishers shall not be used for this purpose.
$-4.2.6 Inspect the inside of the tank or container to see if it is
$-$.5 If solid carbon dioxide is used, it should be crushed and clean. (S~ 2-1.5.) Care should be taken to avoid inhalation of
distributed evenly over the greatest possible area to ensure rapid harmful vapors or gases that may still be present. If examination
evaporation. Avoid skin contact with solid carbon dioxide, since it shows that the tank is not clean, the cleaning procedure shall be
may produce bums. repeated.
5-$.6 In the case of a tank or container inerted with nitrogen, the • 4.2.7 If the tank or container appears to be clean, the atmosphere
oxygen content shall be measured directly by means of an oxygen within the tank or container shall be tested with a combustible gas
indicator. Where carbon dioxide is used, the oxygen ]percentage can indicator. If the instrument indicates the presence of flammable
be calculated from the percentage of carbon dioxide m the vapor, this vapor shall be removed by one of the methods described
container measured by means of a carbon dioxide indicator. in Section 3-2.
5-$.7 A sign shall be conspicuously posted that warns of the hazard $4.2.8 If steam is not available, a less effective method is the use of a
of inhalation of inert gas, if partial entry is possible. cold water solution with the concentration of d e a n i n g compounds
(such as trisodinm phosphate) increased to about 6 oz/gal (180
$-4 Removal of Residual Liquids or Solids. In certain cases, it might ml/L) of water. The solution should then be agitated. After the
be impossible to remove all potentially hazardous liquid or solid tank or container has been drained, it shall be inspected and tested
residues that will produce flammable vapors when heated. Such for the presence of flammable vapors, as above.
residues might be trapped behind heavy scale or rust and might not
easily be detected. Whenever examination after cleaning indicates $.4.$ Nonflammable Solids. Occasionally, hard solid deposits will
that his hazardous condition exists, hazardous work shallnot be found in tanks or containers that cannot be removed b y t h e
proceed without additional precautions being taken. As a minimum, above method and that do not produce flammable vapors. In such
[ a continuous air purge or an inert atmosphere shall be maintained cases and in the absence of flammable vapors, cleaning can be
in the tank or container while hazardous work is in progress. supplemented by tumbling the container with a length of chain
inside to assist in the removal of such solids.
CAUTION: Steam cleaning, chemical cleaning, and high-
pressure waterblasting can generate static electric charges. (S~ Chapter4 Testing Procedures
Section 4.2. 7 of AP12035, Saf, Entr3 and C i ~ of Pdrol~um Storagv
Tanks, and NFPA 77, Recommended Practiceon Static Elsc~d~).) 4-I Testing for Flammability. Testing for flammability is the most
important phase of the cleaning procedure and determines whether
8-4.1 Steam Cleaning. Steam shall be introduced into the tank or or not the cleaning has been effective. These tests shall be made
container through a pipe inserted through an opening and bonded with a combustible gas indicator. Readings from most combustible
to the container or by connecting a steam hose directlY?to one of the gas indicators provide the percentage of the lower flammable limit
vessel nozzles. The rate of supply of steam shall be sufficient to of the vapors present in an atmosphere. The reading might be
exceed the rate of condensation so that the whole tank or container misleading where the atmosphere contains less than about 5 percent
is heated close to the boiling point of water. The vessel shall be by volume of oxygen (a~ in an inerted container), although, in
steamed long enough to vaporize the residues from all portions of general, the readings in oxygen-lean atmospheres will be on the
the walls (shell and heads). When testing the atmosphere in the high or safe side. It is essential that the operator using the indicator
vessel with a combustible gas indicator, the sample shall be drawn be well-trained in the use of the instrument and that the operator
through a drying tube filled with calcium chloride or other drying ensures that the instrument is in good operating condition in
agent to ensure that water vapor does not enter the instrument. I f a accordance with the procedures recommended by the manufac-
drying agent is not available, the container shall be allowed to cool turer. The vapor content of the gas leaving the tank or container
off until excess water vapor has condensed before the gas test is shall be tested periodically while ventilation or air purging is in
made. (See CAUTION in Section 3-4.) progress. If an air mover is used to exhaust air from a cmk or

el
 N F P A 327/327A - - A93 T C R

container, discharge from the air mover will be diluted with air used PART V
in the jet, but the results of the test at this point will still be indicative
of the change of vapor concentration within the vessel, and, when (Log # 0)
the desired low concentration is reached, the condition of the tank 327A- 1 - (1-2):
or container itself can be checked by taking samples at appropriate SUBMITTER: A.~_,~r~tE"Lingenfelter, New York, NY
points.. When testing a tank or container for hot work, any RECOMMENDATION: Revise 1-2, Purpose to read:
I 1-2 Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide proce-
dures for the safe excavation, opening, entry and closure of an
eg "~[ p " underground storage tank that contained flammable or combustible
discussed prior to performing hazardous work. vapors, gases, fiquids, or solids.
SUBSTANTIATION: The current paragraph states that the purpose
4-2 Testing for Oxygen Content. When purging a tank or container is "... to provide procedures for the safe removal of flammable
with an inert gas, a combustible gas indicator will not indicate vapors, gases, liquids, and solids...". This is only one aspect in the
correctly the actual flammability of the sample. The concentration safe entry of USTs. The draft, as written, contains recommendations
of oxygen shall be determined by an appropriate oxygen indicator. on protective clothing, safe atmospheres, confined space entry
procedure, recommendations. The purpose should recognize this.
Othermse, a casual reader may assume that the standard only
A p p e n d i x A R e f e r e n c e d Publications includes inerting and purging procedures.
I COMMITI~EACTION: Accept, but add the word ", cleaning" after
A-1 The following documents or portions thereof are referenced the word "enuy".
within this standard for informational purposes only and thus are COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The Committee agrees with the
not considered part of the requirements of this document. The submitter, but feels that tank cleaning should be included, as tank
edition indicated for each reference is the current edition as of the cleaning is one of the subjects directly addressed by NFPA 327A.
date of the issuance of this document.
A-I.I NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association,
1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. (Log # 1)
327A- 2 - (1-$): Accept in Principle
NFPA 77, Recommended Practic~on Static Electridg, 1988 edition SUB~: DavidJ. Capen, Sr., Bel Air, MD
RECOMMENDATION: Revise text as follows:
NFPA 306, Standard for the Control of Gas Hazards on V~sds, 1988 "Qualified Person. A person designated in writing by the employer
edition as being capable, by education or specialized training, of performing
specified tasks...'.
NFPA 327A, Standard Proc~luresfor Safe E n ~ of Underground Storage Add in this paragraph: Persons recognized by the industry, OSHA,
Tanks, 1993 edition. or NFPA, such as Certified Marine Chemists, or Industrial Hygien-
ists.
.4,-1.2 Other Publications. SUBSTANTIATION: The wording of the present proposed text
infers that onlypeople designated in writing by the employer are
A-l.3 AGA Publications. American Gas Association, 1515 Wilson capable of certifying the tank as "Safe for Entry." That wording
Boulevard, Alexandria, VA 22209. prevents Marine Chemists and Industrial Hygienists from certifying
tanks "Safe for Entry" on a consultant basis thus causing an
Purging Prindples and Practices, 2nd edition, 1975. economic impact.
COMMITrEEACTION: Accept in Principle.
A-I.4 ANSI Publications. American National Standards Institute, In Section 1-3, Definitions, Qualified Person, delete the words "by
1430 Broadway, New York, NY 10018. the employer".
COMMrlWEE STATEMENT: The Committee agrees with the
ANSI Z117.1-1989, American National Standard Safety Requirements for submitter in that the proposed language limits the term "qualified
c o n f ~ space. person" to only those who are designated by the employer. How-
ever, the submitter's remedy can be construed as being somewhat
A-I.5 API Publications. American Petroleum Institute, 1220 L restrictive also. The Committee's manner of resolving the problem
Street, NW, Washington, DC. 20005. is even less restrictive, while still requiring written acknowledgment
of competence.
API 16M-1987, Intedor Lining of Underground Storage Tanks
API 2013-1990, Cleaning Mobile Tanks in Flammable or Combustible
Liquid Service (Log # 2)
327A- 3 - (1-3 (New)): Accept in Principle.
API 2015-1991, Safe Entry and Cleaning of Petroleum Storage,Tanks. SUBMITI'ER: DavidJ. Capen, Sr., Bel Air, MD
RECOMMENDATION: Add the following new text to Standby
A-I.6 ASTM Publications. American Society for Testing and Person:
Materials, 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103. A standby person shall be wearing the same respiratory and
protective clothing as those inside the confined space.
ASTM I)5-1986, Test for PenetraKwnfor Bituminous Materials SUBSTANTIATION: This is needed to insure that he is not
exposed to the contaminates within the confined space. This would
ASTM D323-1990, Standard Method of Test for Vapor Pressure of then be in compliance with the 29 CFR 1910 and 29 CFR 1910
Petroleum Products (Reid Method). requirements for standby persons, i.e., tank watch.
COMMYITEEACTION: Accept in Principle.
A-1.7 NLPA Publications. National Leak Prevention Association, In the first sentence of Subsection 3-6.1, after the word "person-
7685 Fields Ertel Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241. nei", add the following:
"(includingthe standby person specified in 3-6.4) ".
NLPA 631-1991, Entry, Cleaning, Interior Inspection, P~air and Lining Also, in Subsection 3-6.1 add a reference to the OSHA Confined
of Underground Storage Tanks. aCe Entry rules, 29 CFR 1910.146.
MMITrEE STATEMENT: The concerns of the submitter are
A-1.8 U.S. Government Publication. U.S. Government Printing addressed more forcibly in the manner suggested by the Committee.
Office, Superintendent of Documents, Washington, DC 20402. The language proposed by the submitter is not appropriate for a
definition.
OSHA, Codeof FederalRegulations, Title 29, Part 1910.146, "Require-
ments for Permit Required Confined Spaces."
(Log # 3)
327A- 4 - (1-3 (New)): Reject
SUBM]']WER: DavidJ. Capen, Sr., Bel Air, MD
RECOMMENDATION: Add the following new text:
Toxic Materials: Any material whose properties contain the
inherent capacity to produce injury to a biological system. This is
dependent on concentration, rate, method, and site of absorption.

62
 N F P A 3 2 7 A - - A93 T C R

SUBSTANTIATION: This I feel needs to be included because of • The Committee accepts the change to Subsection 2-2.2 because
the potential of many toxics found in petroleum products and the Appendix statement is, in fact, more effective in the body of the
chemical compounds stored underground. To certify a space as Safe standard.
for Entry, the person(s) in the tank must not De exposed to any • The Committee rejects the submitter's proposed change to
chemical above either the OSHA, PEL or ACGIH TLV. Section 2-1 because to adopt it would exceed the scope of the
COMMrrFEE ACTION: Reject. document.
C O M M I T I T ~ STATEMENT: The term "toxic materials" is not used • The Committee rejects the submitter's proposed changes to
in NFPA 327A, therefore, it is not appropriate to define the term. Subsections 2-2.3 through 2-2.8 and to Section 2-3 because they do
not serve any useful purpose.

(Log # 5)
327A- 5 - (Chapter 2): Accept in Part (Log # 4)
SUBMITrER: Gerald E. Lingenfelter, New York, NY 327A- 6 - (3-5): Reject
RECOMMENDATION: Revise Chapter 2, Basic Precautions, to SUBMITI]ER: David.]. Capen, Sr., Bel Air, MD
read: RECOMMENDATION: Add new text after 3-5.5:
Chapter 2. Basic Precautions. "Personnel entering the tank after cleaning shall insure that it has
2-1 Work on tanks that have held flammable or combustible gases, been retested and the atmosphere within meets the minimum
liquids or solids shall be performed only by workers who understand requirements for oxygen content, flammable gas concentration and
the fire and explosion potential of the materials, their vapors, and toxic material concentrations."
their residues. All workers shall be sufficiently skilled to safely carry SUBSTANTIATION: This is needed because after a tank has been
out the necessary operations. cleaned, it appears to restrictive and costly to maintain full air-
2-2.1 Prior to any work being performed, the site shall be supplied breathing equipment and protective clothing.
safeguarded from all sources of ignition for a minimum distance of COMMITTEE ACTION: Reject.
25 ft in all directions. Barricades and warning signs reading COMMITTEE STATEMENT: The language proposed by the
WLAMMABLE - NO SMOKING" shall be provided and placed in submitter anticipates that personnel working reside the tank are not
accordance with the requirements of the authority having jurisdic- provided with full protective gear. While this may be the practice in
tion. The area shall then be tested for the presence of flammable or the marine indumy, from whence this proposal originates, it is not
combustible gases, liquids or vapors. The confirmed presence of common practice with the smaller tanks addressed by NFPA 327A.
flammable or combustible gases, liquids or vapors requires reconsid- The Committee does not agree that personnel should be allowed in
eration of and, where necessary, substantial extension of the 25 ft the tank without full protective gear.
minimum distance.
2-3 Any equipment capable of providing a source of ignition shall
not De permitted within the vicinity of the tank until the tank and
the area have been tested and found to De safe. All electrical
equipment use din the area described in 2-2 shall be suitable for 327A- 7 - (Entire Document): Accept
Class I, Group D, Division I hazardous (classified) locations. SUBMITrER: Technical Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
2-4 The characteristics of the previously-contained material shall Safeguards
be determined. Tanks shall not be worked on until information RECOMMENDATION: Recommend for adoption by the Associa-
concerning the specific hazards of that material has been obtained tion a new document, NFPA 327A, Standard Procedures for the Safe
and safeprocedures have been established. Secondary-containment Entry of Underground Storage Tanks, per the following text.
tanks a n d c o m p a r t m e n t e d tanks require additional precautions. SUBSTANTIATION: In 1989 and early 1990, the Committee on
2-5 Two portable fire extinguishers, each having a rating not less Tank Leakage a n d Repair Safeguards was asked by many local fire
than 80 B:C, shall be provided on the site, in accordance with NFPA and safety officials to develop appropriate guidance for the safe
10, Standard for Portable Extinguishers. entry of underground tanks that had previously contained flam-
2-6 A dependable method shall be available for notifying the fire mable or combustible liquids. The surge of interest in developing
department in the event of a fire or other emergency. such a standard is the direct result of the promulgation of under-
2-7 All work shall De stopped immediately when the presence of storage tank installation and operation rules by the U.S.
flammable vapors at or above 10 percent of the lower flammable vironmental Protection Agency (EPA). In meeting these new
limit is indicated. The source of the vapor release shall be located rules, many tank operators have chosen to remove existing under-
and removed. ound tanks.
SUBSTANTIATION: Generally, the chapter is to be concerned with nfortunately, accidents have occurred, some of which have result
general precautions. But, as written, it is unnecessarily redundant. in serious injuries and fatalities, because of improper and unsafe
Attempted to editorially improve content; no technical changes actions during the tank removal process. Similar incidents have
intended. Some of the specifics are: occurred in cases in which entry to the tank had to be gained so that
1. Revised 2-1. Replaced the word ~liquids" with '~lammable or the tank could be cleaned and lined or otherwise repaired.
combustible gases, liquids or solids" to make the statement more As a consequence, the Committee on Tank Leakage and Repair
inclusive and agree with scope. Deleted last statement in paragraph Safeguards, recognizing that NFPA's current guidance on tank
since it was repeated in 2-4. cleaning (NFPA 327, Standard Procedures for Cleaning or Safe-
2. Did not think that a separate section on Ignition Controls was guarding Small Containers and Tanks) assumes no tank entry,
necessary. Renumbered paragraphs to illustrate this. developed the guidelines which follow.
3. Revised and renumbered 2-2.1. Did not like the sentence COMMITI'EE ACTION: Accept.
beginning "Once the area is made safe..." replaced with Whe area
shall De tested for...2. Changed sequence of events for paragraph.
Required the placing of barricades prior to testing instead of after.
4. C o m b i n e d t h e sentence from 2-2.1 beginning "Once the area is
made safe..." with 2-2.7 and called this 2-3.
5. Did not think that paragraphs 2-2.3, 2-2.6, and Section 2-3 were NFPA $27A
necessary. They are more than adequately addressed elsewhere in
the standard. Standard Procedures f o r the Safe Entry
6. Took last two sentences from deleted Section 2-3 and called o f Underground Storage Tanks
paragraph 2-7.
COMMrITEE ACTION: Accept in Part 1995 Edition
* Reject the submitter's revised Section 2-1.
• Accept the submitter's proposed Section 2-2 as a revision to the 1-1 Scope.
Committee's proposed Subsection 2-2.1.
• Reject the submitter's proposed Section 2-3. 1-1.1 These standard procedures shall apply to the entry of
• Accept the submitter's proposed Section 2-4 as a revision to underground storage tanks, operating at nominal atmospheric
Subsection 2-2.2. pressure, that have contained flammable or combustible liquids, and
• Reject the submitter's proposed Sections 2-5, 2-6, and 2-7. that might contain flammable or combustible vapors or residues.
COMMITTEE STATEMENT: • The Committee accepts the
proposed change to Subsection 2-2.1 because the sequence of events 1-1.2 These procedures shall not apply to aboveground tanks that
set forth by the submitter is more accurate as to how these activities are entered; underground umks that have been removed from the
should be performed. ground; tank vehicles or tanks cars; tanks, bunkers, or compartments

e3
 N F P A 3 2 7 A m A93 T C R

on ships or barges; gas plant equipment or gas distribution systems 2. Class IB liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup
for natural or manufactured gas; compressed and liquefied gas flash points below 73°F (22.8°C) and boiling points at or above
cylinders. Procedures for making some of these vessels safe are 100°F (S7.8°C).
covered separately in the following publications:
3. Class IC liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup
(a) AGA, Purging Prin@lss and Praaic~ flash points at or above 73°F (22.8°G).
(b) ANSI ZllT.L a,n~mn National Standard Saf*~ P,*tuire,,wasfor
C o , ~ Spa~ Lower Flammable Limit. The minimum concentration of vapor in
(c) AP11631, Intedor Lining of Undergrou_ndStorage Tanks air at which propagation of a flame does not occur on contact with a
(d) API 2013, CleaningMo$il~ Tan~ m Flammabl~or Combustible source of ignition.
"L~idService
(e) API 2015, Safe Ent~_ and Cleaning of Pdroleum S_torageTanks Oxygen Monitor. A device capable of detecting, measuring, and
(f) NFPA 306, Standard for the Cont~l of Gas Hazards on Vessels
(g) NLPA 631, Entr), Cleaninb Interior Inspection, Repair and Lining monitoring concentrations of oxygen in the atmosphere.
of Under'groul
ound Stora
"age~Tanks
o~
(h) OSHA, CodeofFederalRegulations, Title 29, Part 1910.146, Purging. The process of displacing the flammable vapors from an
"Requirements for Permit Required Confined Spaces." enclosure or confined space.

1-1.$* These procedures shall not apply to tanks that are protected Qualified Person. A person designated in writing as being capable,
with an inert atmosphere. Providing and working in an inert by education or specialized training, of performing specified tasks;
atmosphere requires special safety procedures that are not covered of recognizing the potential hazards of those tasks; of recognizing
in this standard. (See AP12217A, Guideline,for Work in Inert Confinat any other unsafe conditions in a confined space; of sL~ecifyingthe
Spaces in the PetroleumIndust~ ) necessary control and protective action to ensure worker safety; and
who is knowledgeable of the procedures described in this standard.
1-1.4 This standard shall not apply to the procedures that may be
required to safely work on or repair an underground tank. Self-Contained BreathingAppmatus. A portable respiratory device
designed to protect the wearer from an oxygen-deficient or other
1-2 Purpose. The purpose of this standard is to provide procedures hazardous atmosphere. It supplies a respirable atmosphere that is
for the safe excavalion, opening, entry, cleaning, and dosure of either carried on, in, or generated by the apparatus and is indepen-
underground storage tanks that contained flammable or combus- dent of the ambient environment. It is equipped with a full-face
tible gases, vapors, liquids, or solids. mask and is approved by the U.S. Mine Safety and Health Adminis-
tration and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and
1-3 Definitions. Health.
Bonding. The electrical interconnection (metallic bond wire or Standby Person. A person trained in emergency rescue procedures
metal-to-metal contact) between two conductors that would and who is assigned to remain on the outside of the confined space
otherwise be electrically isolated from each other. and to be in communication with those working inside.
Combustible Gas Indicator. A device capable of detecting, Static Electricity. The electrification of materials through physical
measuring, and monitoring the concentration in the atmosphere of contact and separation and the various effects that result from the
the gas or vapor for which the indicator is calibrated- positive and negative charges so formed, particularly where they
constitute a fire or explosion hazard.
Flammable Gas. Any substance that exists in the gaseous state at
normal atmospheric temperature and pressure and that is capable of Unstable (Reactive) Liquid. A liquid that, in the pure state or as
being ignited and burnedwhen mixed with the proper proportions commercially produced or transported, will vigorously polymerize,
of air, oxygen, or other oxidizer. decompose, condense, or will become self-reactive under conditions
of shock, pressure, or temperature.
Hazardous Work. Any work that involves any source of ignition,
including open flames, cutting and welding, sparking of electrical
equipment, grinding, buffing, drilling, chipping, sawing, or other Otapter 2 Basic Precautions
similar operations that may create hot metkl sparks or surfaces from
friction or impact. 2-1 General. Work on tanks that have held liquids shall be
performed only by personnel who understand the fire and explosion
Inert Gas. Any gas that is nonflammable, nonreactive, and potential of the liquids and their residues. All personnel shall be
noncontarninating for the use intended. sufficiently skilled to safely carry out the necessary operations. The
characteristics of the previous contents of the tank shall be deter-
lnertlng. A technique by which a combustible mixture is rendered mined.
nonigni
~ "tible by the addition of an inert gas.
2-2 Ignition Contml~
Liquid. For the purpose of this standard, any material that has a
fluidity greater than that of 300 penetration asphalt when tested in 2-2.1 Prior to any work being performed, the site shall be safe-
accordance with ASTM DS, Standard Te~tMethodfor Pen~rationfor arded from all sources of ignition for a minimum distance of 25 ft
Biturainot~ Material& Where not otherwise identified, the term 6 m) in all directions. Barricades and warning signs reading
"liquid" shall mean both flammable and combustible liquids. WLAMMABLE - - NO SMOKING" shall be provided and placed in
accordance with the requirements of the authority having jurisdic-
(a) Combuslib/eL/qu/d. A liquid having a closed-cup flash point at tion. The area shall then be tested for the presence of flammable or
or above IO0°F (37.'8°C). Combustible'liquids shall be subdivided as combustible gases, liquids, or vapors. The confirmed presence of
follows: flammable or combustible liquids or vapors may require a substantial
1. Class II liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup extension of the 25-ft (7.6-m) minimum distance.
flash points at or above 100°F (37.8°C) and below 14-0°F (00°C).
2-2.2 The characteristics of the previously-contained liquid shall be
2. Class IliA liquids shall include those liquids having dosed-cup determined. No work shall be performed until information
flash points at or above 140°F (60°C) and below 200°F (93.4°C). concerning the specific hazards of that material has been obtained
and safeprocedures have been established. Secondary-containment
3. Class IIIB liquids shall include those liquids having flash points tanks andcompartmented tanks require additional precautions.
above 200°F (93.s.°C).
2-2.$ Tank contents shall be vented to a safe location. Before work
(b) F/ammab/e L/fu/d. A liquid having a closed-cup flash point is started on tanks that may be under pressure, the pressure shall be
below 100°F (37.8C°°~')and having a Reid vapor pressure n o t reduced to atmospheric pressure.
exceeding 40 psia (2068.8 mm Fig) at 100°F (37.8°C), as determined
by ASTM D323, Standard Test Methodfor VaporPressureof Petrolsum 2-2.4 Twoportable fire extinguishers, each having a ratin[~ not less
Products (Reid Method). Flammable liquids shall be subdivided as than 80 B:C, shall be provided on the site in accordance wlth NFPA
follows: 10, Standard for Portab/~F/re Ext/ngu/~hen.
1. Class IA liquids shall include those liquids having closed-cup 2-2.5 A dependable method shall be available for notifying the fire
flash points below 73°F (22.8°C) and boiling points below 100°F" department in the event of a fire or other emergency.
(37.8°C).

64
 N F P A 3 2 7 A - - A93 T C R

2-2.6 AdecJuate precautions shall be taken toprevent the accumula- minimum of 12 ft (3.7 m) above grade and away from any areas that
tion and dtscharge of static electricity. (S~API 2003, t~otection may contain sources of ignition. The eductor shall be properly
Out o/ Stati, Light,,i.g, bonded to prevent the generation of static electric charges.
77, Recommended Practiceon Statlc Ele~tn~ity.)
(b) A diffused airbiower. Fill (drop) tubes shall be removed to
2-2.7 Any electrical equipment used in the area described in Section enhance diffusion of air into the tank. The air shall be supplied
2-1 shall be suitable for Class I, Group D, Division 1 hazardous from a compressor that has been checked to ensure delivery of clean
(classified) locations, as defined in NFPA 70,® NationalElectrical air that is free of volatile vapors. The air pressure in the tank shall
Code@. not exceed 5 psig (34.5 kPa). The air-diffusing pipe shall be
properly b o n d e d t o prevent the generation of static electric charges.
2-2.8 Any equipment capable of providing a source of ignition shall
not be permitted within the vicinity of the tank until the tank and 3-$.4 Where access must be gained to a tank that is located indoors
the area around the tank have been tested and found to be safe. or in a confined area, such as under a building, ventilation shall be
sufficient to prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors.
2-$ Safe Atmosphere. To ensure a safe atmosphere within the tank,
tests shall be made for flammable vapors with an appropriate 3-4 Testing for FlammableVapors.
combustible gas detector as follows:
3-4.1 During tank excavation, tank opening, and tank entry, tests
(a) Immediately before entry or re-entry shall be conducted to determine the concentration of flammable
(b) Immediately before beginning alterations or repairs vapors in the excavated area and in the tank. Vapor concentrations
(c) Immediately before and during any welding, cutting, or shall not exceed 10 percent of the lower flammable limit. Tests shall
heating operations be made with a combustible gas indicator that has been properly
(d) Periodically during the course of the work. calibrated using hexane in air and thoroughly checked and
maintained in accordance with manufacturer's instructions.
All work shall be stopped immediately when the presence of
flammable vapors exceeding 10 percent of the lower flammable limit 3-4.2 Persons responsible for testing shall be trained and thoroughly
is indicated. The source of the vapor release shall be located and familiar with the use of the instrument, interpretation of its
removed. readings, and its limitations.

Oaapter 3 Tank Entry 3-4.3 Where purging is being performed by an eductor air mover,
the eductor shall create a vacuum that draws air through at least one
3-1 Excavation. If excavation is necessary to gain access to the top of tank opening and discharges through another opening. Testing for
the tank, the access pit shall be a minimum of 4 f t x 4 ft (0.6 m x 0.6 flammable vapors shall be conducted with a combustible gas
m). indicator with its probe inserted into the probe hole provtd""ed in the
side of the eductor. Testing for flammable vapor concentrations
3-2 Preparation for Opening the Tank. shall be performed with the eductor on and tightly secured to the
tank's fill tube. Readings of 10 percent or less of the lower flam-
3-2.1 Before any work on the exterior surface of the tank begins, the mable limit shall be obtained before the tank is considered safe for
tank shall be isolated. If the tank on which work is to be performed opening.
is equipped with a manifold vent, fill line, or siphon assembly,
necessary measures shall be taken to isolate that tank from all other 3-4.4 Where purging is being performed by an air blower, the
tanks. All product and vapor recovery piping shall be disconnected blower shall force air into the tank through at least one tank
and blanked off. The vent for the tank being entered shall be o p e n i n g a n d discharge through the vent line opening. Testing for
isolated from vents of other tanks that may still be in service. A flammable vapor concentrations shall be performed with a combus-
separate temporary vent for the tank being entered shall be tible gas indicator whose probe is placed in the tank's vent line.
provided, if necessary. When readings of 10 percent or less of the lower flammable limit are
obtained, the air blower shall be shut off. Readings shall be taken at
3-2.2 All electrical circuits supplying power to submerged pumps or the bottom, middle, and upper portions of the tank. The instru-
other equipment connected to the tank shall be disconnected or ment shall be purged with fresh air after each reading. If readings
locked out. in the tank are taken through the fill line, the fill tube shall be
removed. The air blower shall be immediately turned on after the
$-2.$ As much product, water, and sediment as possible shall be last test in the tank, and the tank's vent line shall be tested thereaf-
removed using explosion-proofor air-driven pumps. Pump motors ter. Readings of 10 percent or less of the lower flammable limit shall
and suction hoses shall be bonded to the tankto prevent static be obtained in the bottom, middle, and upper portion of the tank
elecfficity ignition hazards. (SeeAP12003, ProtectionAgainst Ignitions and in the vent line before the tank is consld""ered safe for opening.
ATising Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray Currents, and NFPA 7 7 ,
Rsc.ommmded Practiceon Static Elec~rid~.) A small quantity of water Opening the Tank.
may be pumped into the tank through the tank gage stick access line
to float any remaining product from a low spot so that it can be $-5.1 Purging, displacement with air, and testing shall continue
pumped from the tank. while personnel are working on or in the tank. Personnel shall
never enter a tank without testing for adequate ventilation having
3-3 Displacement with Air. been conducted beforehand. Ventilation shall he continuous while
personnel are in the tank. No cutting torch or other flame-
3-$.1 The tank shall be thoroughly purged with air to remove producing equipment shall be used for cutting into a tank.
flammable vapors. The concentration of fiammable vapors in a tank
might go through the flammable range before a safe atmosphere is 3-5.2 Steel Tanks. If a manway exists, the bolts and lid shall be
obtained. Precautions shall be taken to eliminate the possibility of removed. If no manway exists, an opening having a minimum
static electric discharge during gas-freeing procedures, as specified dimension of either 18 in. x 18 in. (46 o n x 46 cm) or 24 in. (61 cm)
in API 2003, ProtectionAgainst Ignitions Arising Out of Static, Lightning, in diameter shall be cut in the top of the tank. The section to be
and S~ay Currents, and NTPA 77, Recommended Practiceon Static removed should be marked with chalk, and a hole shall be drilled
Elsctridty. (See also, 2~¢PA 69, Standard on E~losion Prevea&m Systems.) with an air-driven drill at one corner of the section using lubricated
cutting oil to reduce friction, heat, and possible sparks. After the
3-3.2 Where purging the tank with air, the air pressure in the tank hole is drilled, the tank vapors shall agaln be tested by inserting the
shall not exceed 5 psig (34.5 kPa). To prevent excess air pressure, meter probe at least 24 in. (61 cm) into the drilled hole to verify that
the vent line shall be checked to make certain it is free of blockages, the vapor concentration in the tank does not exceed 10 percent of
obstructions, or traps. the lower flammable limit before cutting the access opening.

3-3.3 Displacement of the tank atmosphere with air shall be 3-5.$ ~berglass Tanks. If no manway exists, an opening having a
accomplished by one of the following methods: minimum dimension of 18 in. x 18 in. (46 cm x 46cm) and
maximum dimension of 24 in. x 24 in. (61 c m x 61 cm) shall be cut
(a) An eductor air mover, preferably driven by compressed air. through the end cap. The first cut shall be made at least 5 in. (14.5
The eductor shall be air-tight and attached to the fill connection. on) and no more than 12 in. (30.5 cm) from any rib. The opening
Where using this method on tanks with fill (drop) tubes, the tube shall be bevel cut to prevent it from falling through when it is
shall remain in place to ensure thatvapors are drawn from the replaced.
bottom of the tank. An extension shall be used to discharge vapors a

65
 NFPA 327A - - A93 TCR

5-5.4 The tank shall be cut using an air-driven saber saw or snipper, CAUTION: Steam cleaning, use of special cleaning agents, or high-
using lubricated cutting oil to reduce friction and heat and to pressure waterblasting may result in the generation of static electric
prevent p.ossible spar..ks Prior. to. the final cut, the plate shall be charges. See Section 4.7.2 of APl 2015, ~afiEntry and C/~n/ng
supported to prevent tts falhng mto the tank. Peerol~m Storage Tanks, for appropriate safeguards.
3-6 Tank Entry.
C~apter 5 Closing the Tank Access Opening
5-6.1 Pre-enlryProcedures. Before entering tanks, personnel,
including the standby person specified in 3-6.3, shall be familiar with 5-1 If an-access opening has been cut into the tank, the opening
the applicable procedures described in API 2015, SafeEnt~ and shall be sealed, either temporarily or permanently, depending on
Cleaning of P~roleum Storage Tanks, API 2217, Gu/d~//nesfor Confined the disposition of the tank, in accordance with one of the following:
Spats Work in the Petroleum Indusb3, ANSI Z117.1, Anwr/mn Nat/mud
Standard Saf~3 R~y~/remmtsfor Confined Spares, N I O S H O4tenafor a (a) API 1631, Interior Lining of Und,~round Storage Tm~.s
Rec~mmmdat Standard/or Working in Confln~ Spaces, and the O S H A
P~quirementsfor Permit Rsfuired Confinsd Spaces, whichever are (b) NLPA 631, Entrj, Cdamin& lnt~ior Inspection, P u ~ and Lining
applicable. of Und~wound Storage Tanks.
5-6.2 Immediately prior to entry or re-entry of a tank, the atmo- Chapter 6 Referenced Publications
sphere shall be tested and monitored as follows:
6-1 The following documents or portions thereof are referenced
(a) The oxygen content inside the tank shall be monitored with a within this standard and shall be considered part of the require-
properly calibrated oxygen analyzer. ments of this document. The edition indicated for each reference is
the current edition as of the date of the NFPA issuance of this
(b) The concentration of flammable vapors shall not exceed 10 document.
percent of the lower flammable limit and shall be monitored with a
properly calibrated combustible gas indicator. 6-1.1 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association,
1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA 02269-9101.
(c) Any other hazards that have been identified for the material(s)
previously stored shall be appropriately monitored. NFPA 1O, Standard for PortableFire Extinguishers, 1990 edition
5-6.3 Personnel entering a tank shall be equipped with positive- NFPA 70, NatimmlElsctrim! Code, 1990 edition.
pressure air-supplied equipment with full-face enclosure and a safety
harness connected to a safety line tied off and held by a standby 6-1.2 Other Publications.
person outside the tank
6-1.3 Publication. American National Standards Institute, 1430
5-6.4 Protective clothing that is "unpervious to the stored product Broadway, New York, NY 10018.
shall be required. Protective clothing shall cover the arms, legs,
torso, and head. Clothing that becomes saturated with the stored ANSI Z117.1-1989, American National Standard Safer3 Requir~wnt~ for
product shall be removedimmediately. c~,,~ s~.
5-6.5 Post-entry Procedures. Tests shall be performed continuously 6-1.4 Publications. American Petroleum institute, 1220 L Street,
in the tank to ascertain that the tank vapors are 10 percent or less of NW, Washington, DC 20005.
the lower flammable limit and that oxygen levels are maintained at a
minimum level of 19.5 percent, ff the tank is perforated, product or API 2015-1991, Safi Ent~ and ~ n g of Petroleum Storage Tanks
vapors that have leaked into the soil may re-enter the tank through
the perforation, ffthis condition exists, additional precautions may API 2217-1984, Guide~nesfor Confinal Space Work in the P~roleum
be necessary. Indus,.
$-6.6 The vent line shall remain dear and unobstructed to allow 6-1.5 Publications. American Society for Testing and Materials,
continuous ventilation. All other lines and o~'=nings shall be 1916 Race Street, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
plugged or capped off to ensure that no liqmds or vapors can enter
the tank. ASTM D5-1986, Standard Test Method for Pmetration of Bituminous
Materials
5-7 Sludge Removal. Sludge accumulation on the bottom of the
tank shall be removed and placed in approved containers. Removal ASTM D323-1990, Standard Test Method for Vapor Pressure of Petroleum
of sludge shall include removing all visible moisture and liquids with l~luas (P~ M~tu~O.
the use of an absorbent material and broom sweeping. During and
after sludge removal, ventilation shall be continued to remove any 6-1.6 U.S. Government Publications. U.S. Government Printing
vapors that may be generated. Office, Superintendent of Documents, Washington, DC 20402.

Chapter 4 Precautiom Prior to Hazardous Work NIOSH Oiteria for a ~ e d Standard for Working in Confined
st~
4-1 Tanks shall be cleaned thoroughly to ensure that there are no OSHA, CodeofFederalRek~lations , Title 29, Part 1910.146, "Require-
flammable materials.present and that there are no substances such ments for Permit Required Confined Spaces."
as greases, tars, or other materials that, when subjected to heat,
might produce flammable vapors. Any of the following methods
shall be permitted to be used:
AppendixA Additional Explanatory Information
(a) Sandblasting This Apl~md~ is not a part of the r~rementa of this NFPA document, but
(b) Low-pressure water (triple rinse) is indudal tiff informa#ion pin,hoses on O.
(c) High-pressure waterblasting [25,000 to 40,000 psi] (172,250 to
275,600 kPa)
(d) High-pressure steam A-I-I.$ Situations may occur in which it is not possible to achieve or
(e) Special cleaning agents (solvents, degreasers, or emulsifiers). maintain a safe atmosphere within a tank, as described in this
standard. In such situations, it may be necessary to provide an inert
atmosphere inside the tank, usually by using nitrogen or carbon
dioxide.

66
 NFPA 327A u A93 T C R

Appendix B Referenced Publicadons

This Appmdix is not a part of tYwrw/uir~nts of this ~'PA document, but

B-I The following documents or portions thereof are referenced

within this standard for informational purposes only and thus are
not considered part of the requirements of this document. The
edition indicated foe each reference is the current edition as of the
date of the NFPA issuance of this document.
B-I.1 NFPA Publications. National Fire Protection Association,
1 Batterymarch Park, P.O. Box 9101, Quincy, MA 02269-9101.
NFPA 69, Standard on F~losion Prwmtion S y s t ~ 1992 edition
NFPA 77, Pwc~unmdsd Pra~ic~ on Static Elsctridg, 1988 edition
NFPA 506, St~utard for the Control of Gas Hazards on V~sds, 1988
edition.
B-I.2 Publication. American Gas Association, 1515 Wilson
Boulevard, Alexandria, VA 22209.
Purg/ng Pr/n@/~ and Pract/~, 2nd edition.
B-I.$ Publications. American Petroleum Institute, 1220 L Street,
NW, Washington, DC 20005.
API 16M, l ~ Lining of L b ~ d ~ n d Storage Twnl~
API 2003-1991, Prote~/on Against Ignitions A~sing Out of Stag~
Lightning, and Stray Cu,ymts
API 201 3-1990, Clmning Mobil~ Tanks in Flammableor Combustible

API 2217A-1987, Gu/&//n~for Wart/n ln~t ~ Spare/n the

Petroleum Industry.
B-I.4 NLPA Publication. National Leak Prevention Association,
7685 Fields Ertel Road, Cincinnati, OH 45241.
NLPA 631-1991, Entr), Clmnin~ lnt~riorlnsp~tion, Pdfair, and Lining
of U.derground Storage Tanks.

67