OSHA Flammable Paint Storage Regulations

OSHA Paint Storage Regulations & Guidelines

Like with any dangerous chemicals, OSHA has developed numerous enforceable regulations and OSHA approved guidelines related to proper flammable paint storage. These safety regulations exist to prevent sudden fires and injury through toxicity exposure. Most commercial and industrial coatings and paint fall under two categories: oil-based and water-based. Because oil-based paints contain high levels of solvents per volume, they are classified as flammable liquids. OSHA 1926.152 stipulates that “no more than 60 gallons of Category 1, 2 and/or 3 flammable liquids or 120 gallons of Category 4 flammable liquids shall be stored in any one storage cabinet.” Federal regulations also require that inside storage lockers should be constructed of fire-resistant rated materials for proper paint storage. U.S. Hazmat Rentals line of steel rated paint storage buildings can meet stringent OSHA paint storage regulations.

Why is Paint Storage Regulated?

While seemingly inert in application, all types of paint can be inherently dangerous if mishandled or improperly stored. Oil based paints, for example, contain a large number of hydrocarbons, which are prone to sudden combustion and can cause serious toxicity through human exposure and inhalation. Although latex paints are deemed less harmful than traditional oil-based counterparts, exposure to these chemicals can cause mild irritation to the skin and mouth. Most latex paints are made from a plastic polymer known as acrylic resin. This type of material can become particularly dangerous to human exposure as it may contain trace amounts of ethyl acrylate, which is a known carcinogen. Our flammable paint storage buildings can be retrofitted with metal partitioned walls and unique compartmentalization options that can prevent indirect human exposure to these dangerous chemicals.

Environmental contamination and pollution can also occur if paints are not properly stored in a steel-welded storage locker that is outfitted with an innovative spill sump containment system. Regardless of use or composition, OSHA requires fire-rated protection for large quantities of oil-based, water-based paints, and solvents that fall within a flashpoint of 73 F to 140 degrees F. Failure to abide by OSHA paint storage regulations can subject your company to insurmountable civil penalties and a negative reputation that can forever tarnish a business’s legacy.

Proper paint storage and OSHA compliance help manage safe storage and handling of paints and chemicals components found in paints like:  

• Paint – a colored substance applied to a surface which leaves a thin protective coating.
• Varnishes – Wood finishes such as lacquer.
• Solvents – agents that evaporate chemically with oxygen.
• Thinners – use to thin out or clean up oil-based paints.
• Acetone (C3H6O) – solvent used to dissolve paint
• Alcohol – solvent used to change paint texture and comp.
• Paint pigments – controls actual paint coloring

• Mineral Spirits – used as paint thinner
• Oil-based paints – solvent-based paint known for coverage
• Water-based paints – AKA latex. Uses water as a binder
• Acrylics paints – uses acrylic polymer
• Latex (PVA) – water-based paint
• Acrylics polymers – used as paints, sealants, and adhesives
• Alkyd polymers – Resins used in paint and varnishes.
• Epoxy polymers – Epoxy resin used in glue.
• Enamel paints – Produce natural air-dry glossy finish.

• Phenolic resins – Primarily used in circuit boards,
• Binders – Provides cohesive structural stability in paint.
• Resins – Binder that holds pigments together.
• Xylene (C8H10) – Binding agent used in paints.
• Retarder – used to slow the drying time of acrylic paints.
• Extender – increases paint drying times.
• Pigments – adds color to paint.
• Additives – help with mildew resistance, flow, and leveling.

Is storing paint a fire hazard?

As we’ve said before, oil-based paints contain a large amount of hydrocarbons, which are extremely flammable. Paints should be stored in a climate-controlled environment to mitigate potential fire hazards and to protect the chemical consistency and viscosity of each product. Additionally, OSHA mandates that flammable liquids should be stored in a building that is resistant to fire for a certain period of time. When storing flammable paints within 10 feet of sensitive or vulnerable property, you should consider a U.S. Hazmat Rentals 4-hour-fire rated locker. 4-Hour Fire-Rated Structures are engineered and designed specifically for flammable storage safety certification. Our rentals ensure your company will meet all NFPA and OSHA requirements for your chemical storage needs.

When storing hazardous materials or dangerous chemicals within 10 to 30 feet of sensitive or vulnerable property, you should consider a U.S. Hazmat Rentals 2-hour-fire rated locker. Our Two (2) Hour Fire-Rated Structures are designed for storing flammable liquids, chemicals, and combustible materials as required by the authority having jurisdiction. These buildings are rigorously tested to hold their structural integrity for over two hours of intense internal blaze. They will contain a barrage of excessively hot gases, liquids, and solids. In accordance with OSHA 1926.152 and 1910.106, a dry chemical fire suppression system comes standard on fire-rated paint storage buildings. In the event of a fire, this system can quickly douse flames and prevent the fire from spreading. For chemical storage that is 30 feet or more from property lines, equipment, or personnel, consider non-fire-rated storage lockers or our economical BoxSAFE shipping container storage solutions.

What are Paints Stored In?

Regardless of composition or propensity for sudden combustion, all project managers and support staff should exercise extreme caution when handling and storing paint. Per OSHA 1926.152(a)1 “approved safety cans or Department of Transportation approved containers shall be used for the handling and use of flammable liquids in quantities of 5 gallons or less.” Furthermore, OSHA regulations state “for quantities of one gallon or less, the original container may be used, for storage, use and handling of flammable liquids,” including paints. All paints should be stored in a climate-controlled environment, away from incompatible materials. If you choose to store paint in the same building with other classifications of hazardous materials, make sure these chemicals will not react negatively with one another should both inadvertently come in contact in the spill sump containment system. OSHA also requires that flammable paints should be stored in cabinets that are labeled with, “Flammable-Keep Away from Open Flames” signage.

Just like the bare walls of your potential clients, U.S. Hazmat Rentals has you covered. Regardless of size or application, we have both fire-rated and non-fire-rated paint storage buildings for all dilemmas. Our lockers meet all OSHA paint storage regulations and NFPA guidelines.

Small Container Storage

• Retail Tubes
• Retail 1 quart containers 
• Retail 1/2 gallon containers 
• Retail 1 gallon containers 

Bulk Storage Containers

• Retail 5 gallon pale containers 
• Palletized materials
• 55 gallon drums
• IBC liquid storage totesCan store from 180 – 550 gallons 

Where Should Paints Be Stored?

All paints should be stored in a cool and dry climate controlled environment. This will help prevent volatile chemical reactions, as well as to protect the viscosity and composition of paint. Mechanical ventilation can prevent the unwanted accumulation of toxic fumes and vapors. Flammable oil based paints that contain solvents or hydrocarbons should be stored in fire-rated structures that are equipped with fire suppression systems. Avoid stacking flammable liquids above eye-level and clear of egresses. Store all paints away from incompatible materials.

Paint Storage Solutions

Determining your level of protection for proper paint storage will depend on several factors. When storing flammable paints within 10 feet of sensitive or vulnerable property, you should consider a U.S. Hazmat Rentals 4-hour-fire rated locker. When storing hazardous materials or dangerous chemicals within 10 to 30 feet of sensitive or vulnerable property, you should consider a U.S. Hazmat Rentals 2-hour-fire rated locker. You should also consider our BoxSAFE Storage Containers that are also economical and EPA compliant. These lockers also designed for the storage of chemical drums, totes and palletized materials.

Why are Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Important for Paint Storage?

When it comes to storing paint safely, the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) is a vital resource. Every chemical, including paints, comes with an SDS provided by the manufacturer. Storing these documents properly ensures that everyone handling these materials has access to critical safety information, particularly during emergencies.

Key Sections of the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) Most Relevant to Paint Storage

The SDS includes 16 sections, but some are especially important for effective paint storage:

1. Chemical Identification and Uses:
   • This section lists the chemical name and possible aliases, providing clarity about what you’re dealing with. It also details the general purpose of the paint and the manufacturer’s details, which can be essential for verification and sourcing additional information.
2. Hazard Information:
   • Understanding the hazards associated with paint is crucial. This part of the SDS reveals potential risks and necessary warning information. Recognizing these hazards helps inform the design of a storage facility that minimizes danger.
3. First Aid Measures:
   • Accidental contact with paint might require immediate action. This section offers guidance on first aid procedures for different types of exposure, ensuring that responses to accidents are swift and appropriate.
4. Firefighting Techniques:
   • Since many paints are flammable, the SDS includes pointers on firefighting approaches specific to the material in question. This information aids emergency preparedness, ensuring that correct extinguishing methods are in place.
5. Spill and Leak Protocols:
   • This segment outlines how to handle accidental spills or leaks. Proper cleanup procedures are crucial to prevent environmental contamination and maintain workplace safety.
6. Storage and Handling Instructions:
   • Best practices for safe handling and storage are detailed here, helping to avert mishandling that could lead to accidents or degradation of the paint.

Where to Find More Information

For further guidance on interpreting Safety Data Sheets, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) offers resources that break down each section in detail. You can visit their website or download their comprehensive PDF titled “Hazard Communication Standard: Safety Data Sheets.”

In summary, an SDS isn’t just a technical document—it’s a fundamental tool for risk management and safe storage practices. By fully understanding and utilizing the SDS, you ensure a safer environment for storing paints and other chemicals.