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 One
of the leading causes of industrial fires is the improper storage and
handling of flammable liquids. It is important to identify and inventory
all chemicals in your workplace. Review the MSDS (Material Safety Data
Sheet) for each chemical to determine characteristics and recommended
storage practices. To avoid generating toxic gases and to prevent fires
and explosions, it is important to segregate incompatible chemicals.
Some local regulations require positive-pressure ventilation. Justrite
cabinets offer fire-baffle protected vents to connect to these systems.
If the chemical
being stored is flammable or combustible, OSHA 1910.106 applies. Though
states differ, your state and local codes are likely based on either
the National Fire Protection Association Code (NFPA 30) and/or the Uniform
Fire Code (UFC 79). Section 4.3 of the 2000 edition of NFPA covers the
design, construction, and capacity of storage cabinets. In addition
to passing a fire test, NFPA further requires specific cabinet construction.
Whereas both metal and wood construction are acceptable, the most popular
choice in industry is metal. One notable distinction in the Uniform
Fire Code 7902.5.9.3.2 is the requirement that all flammable and combustible
liquid storage cabinets shall be self-closing.
In addition to assuring
that cabinets meet applicable codes, it’s important to look for
safety storage cabinets which carry independent third party certification,
such as Factory Mutual (FM Approved) or Underwriter’s Laboratories
(UL Listed). Codes vary internationally. For example, in some applications
in Canada, the Canadian National Fire Code may require cabinets to carry
a ULC listing which requires a more stringent fire test than UL Listing.
While NFPA does not mandate requirements for the storage of nonflammable
acids and corrosives, these chemicals should be properly stored for
maximum safety. A wide variety of code compliant cabinets are available
in sizes ranging from 4-gallons (15 liters) to 120-gallons (454 liters).
Smaller cabinets allow solvents to be stored at worksite locations saving
costly trips to a central storage room. Undercounter, countertop, wall
mount and piggyback / stackable cabinets add to safe storage, even when
space is at a premium. For high capacity storage, including storage
of 55-gallon drums, larger sized cabinets designed specifically to house
30-gallon (114 liter) or 55-gallon (208 liter) drums are available.
It’s important to note that OSHA Code 29 CFR 1910.106 states that
not more than 60-gallons may be Class I and II liquids. Custom sized
cabinets are also available for unique requirements.
Please Note that Shipping on safety storage cabinets may be different than specified in the shipping quote online. Shipping is based on frieght quote and the need of a lift gate. A Customer Service Reprasentative will contact you after your order has been placed to confirm shipping price.
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