OSHA regulations and standards for chemical storage vary upon hazardous classification. While non fire-rated storage is sufficient for protecting nitrogen and certain metals, other chemicals require tougher construction. Flammable storage can be a logistical nightmare for product inventory. No company likes running low on supplies. Supply-chain interruptions affects every stage of production. Product shortages were all too common during the pandemic. With microchips running scarce, the automotive industry struggled to keep up with demand, causing manufacturing to seize up like a spun bearing. Other manufacturers stockpiled ancillary products to curb shortages. However, companies can only store some building materials in large quantities. While the temptation exists for bulk purchases of flammable materials during more stable economic times, doing so can run afoul strenuous OSHA regulations.
Ethanol hand sanitizer was liquid gold during the pandemic. Looking to offset anticipated shortages, the healthcare sector buoyed dwindling stockpiles with exorbitant orders of hand sanitizer. While they might’ve scored points with the local health department, they caught the watchful eye of OSHA inspectors, forcing hospitals to seek flammable storage for bulk goods. U.S. Hazmat Rentals can provide compliant flammable storage for every industry while satisfying overzealous government regulation, ensuring lasting compliance.
OSHA Regulations for Flammable Storage
OSHA says no more than 25 gallons of flammable or combustible liquids may be stored in a room outside of an approved storage cabinet. Additionally, OSHA requires no more than 60 gallons of flammable liquid (flashpoint below 140 degrees F) or 120 gallons of combustible (flashpoint at or above 140 degrees F) can be stored in a single chemical storage container or warehouse. OSHA also requires rated storage safety cabinets when possible. Furthermore, any Category I, II, or III flammable liquids should be kept in closed containers when not in use. NFPA 30 warns against storing more than 120 gallons of Class IB, Class IC, Class II, or Class III liquids in containers. Finally, the NFPA caps any combination of Class IB, IC, or IIIA liquids in metal tanks or metal IBC containers – each not exceeding 793 gallons – at 1,585 total liquid gallons.
Flammable materials should never be stored in areas used for exits, stairways, or egresses. Additionally, flammable materials should always be stored at or below eye level. Avoid stacking flammable materials and never store these chemicals with incompatible hazardous materials. While OSHA regulations don’t stipulate fire suppression for smaller quantities, investing in fire suppression prevents smaller ignitions from overwhelming standard fire retardants. OSHA requires at least “one portable fire extinguisher having a rating of not less than 20-B units shall be located not less than 25 feet, nor more than 75 feet from any flammable liquid storage area located outside.” Where sprinklers are provided, these fixtures must be installed in accordance with the Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
Compliant Protection for Paints and Thinners
Paints and coatings are some of the most common hazardous materials in modern construction. Paints are flammable liquids and federal regulations dictate compliant storage. Internal chemical storage reduces the chance of fire and chemical degradation caused by high temperatures. All chemical storage lockers should be constructed of fire-resistant rated materials for proper paint storage protection.
Flammable Storage for Processed Metals and Solid-State Batteries
Although liquid flammable storage comprises the lion’s share of our chemical storage inquiries, select solid chemicals also require compliant protection. All alkali metals, including lithium, aluminum, cadmium, titanium, and potassium are highly flammable. Because of their susceptibility to ignite in unstable atmospheric conditions, powdered metals should always be stored in a well-ventilated area with climate control to prevent rapid temperature fluctuations. Solid-state and lithium-ion batteries are extremely flammable. Furthermore, lithium ion-batteries can be prone to thermal runaway, which are extreme exothermic chain reactions within the battery. All batteries should be stored at room temperature, necessitating the need for mechanical ventilation. During a fire, lithium-metal batteries require a Class D fire extinguisher while water will suffice for lithium-ion battery fires.
Proper Chemical Labeling and Signage Streamlines Compliant Storage
‘Sign, sign, everywhere a sign… Do this don’t do that, can’t you read a sign?’ While the ubiquity of hazmat signage can be an eyesore ‘blockin’ out the scenery’ of the jobsite humming right along, proper chemical labeling and safety signage keeps your jobsite safe and compliant. Brightly colored exclamatory warning signs are constant reminders for your workforce of the inherent dangers of flammable chemicals. Each flammable storage cabinet or warehouse should display “FLAMMABLE” and “KEEP FIRE AWAY” signage and markings. Each letter height for “FLAMMABLE” should be two inches while the minimum letter height for “KEEP FIRE AWAY” should be one inch. Proper chemical labeling prevents misidentification and inadvertent flammable storage with incompatible materials. Never store hazardous materials alphabetically as this practice contradicts hazardous classifications and groupings.
Employee Training and Routine Maintenance Saves Lives, Profits
Employees are your company’s most valuable asset; investing in their training and safety will reap the greatest dividends. Every project safety manager should confirm that employees are trained in safe handling practices, spill response procedures, and emergency evacuation protocols related to flammable liquid storage. Furthermore, managers must document employee training records and regularly conduct refresher training sessions to reinforce safe practices. Establishing a routine maintenance protocol of all storage containers, equipment, and facilities will also minimize your company’s risk of violating OSHA regulations and standards.
Regulatory Compliance Documentation
Although consistent flammable storage compliance can be daunting, the downside of failure to abide by federal regulations can prove catastrophic. All employers should maintain up-to-date documentation, including permits, licenses, and certificates of compliance with NFPA 30 and other relevant regulations. Furthermore, keep records of material safety data sheets (MSDS) for all stored flammable liquids and ensure they are readily accessible to employees.
Compliant Flammable Storage
U.S. Hazmat Rentals can provide a turnkey solution to any chemical storage dilemma. Our fire-rated flammable storage lockers meet all OSHA regulations and NFPA 30 standards. Optional fire suppression, climate control, mechanical ventilation can mitigate common hazards while protecting your bottom-line. Contact us today for a free consultation.
