ofm -- commentary on part 4 · on september 9, 2000, part 4 was amended by ontario regulation...

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COMMENTARY ON PART 4 OFTHE ONTARIO FIRE CODEO. REG. 388/97

(REVISED BY O.REG 475/00)

January 2001

Commentary on Part 4 of the Fire Code

This document has been prepared to assist users of Part 4 of the Fire Code, Ontario Regulation 388/97.

On September 9, 2000, Part 4 was amended by Ontario Regulation 475/00. This commentary has been modified to reflectthe changes made by the regulation provides additional information to explain the impact of the changes.

An Audit Guide has also been developed by the Office of the Fire Marshal to provide an overview of the regulationgoverning use, handling and storage of flammable and combustible liquids.

This commentary contains explanations relating to the application and intent of Part 4. For the full text of anyrequirements, reference should be made to the Official Volumes.

TABLE OF CONTENTSIntroductionBackgroundProperties of Flammable and Combustible LiquidsControl of Hazards4.1 Application4.2 Container Storage and Handling4.3 Tank Storage4.4 Piping and Transfer Systems4.5 Fuel Dispensing Stations4.6 Bulk Plants4.7 Piers and Wharves

OFM -- Commentary on Part 4

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Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4--INTRODUCTION

INTRODUCTION

Note: Defined terms appear in lower case bold face. Definitions may be found in Article 1.2.1.2. of the Ontario Fire Code.

Flammable and combustible liquids are found in most workplaces and homes. Products such as gasoline, solvents,paints, thinners and adhesives contain flammable or combustible liquids. Everyone who uses these liquids needs to beaware of the potential risks of fire and explosion if suitable precautions are not followed.

Part 4 of the Ontario Fire Code contains new regulatory requirements to control the risks associated with the handling,storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids. This regulation is specifically designed to protect the health andsafety of the public. It is also designed to protect the environment by preventing and mitigating the effects of fires andexplosions. Requirements cover topics such as:

containment (e.g. suitable containers);●

fire separations;●

quantity limitations;●

method of handling;●

ventilation;●

drainage; and●

fire suppression (manual and automatic).●

This commentary is designed to assist owners and users of flammable and combustible liquids in complying with thesenew requirements.

BACKGROUND

In response to a Coroner's Jury recommendation that resulted from the inquest into the death of Sean Kells, and theOntario Fire Chiefs resolution 95-03 to enact regulations dealing with flammable and combustible liquids, the FireMarshal established a committee to incorporate Part 4 of the National Fire Code into the Ontario Fire Code. ThisImplementation Committee, made up of representatives from industry and government, was established to draft suitablerequirements and to suggest an implementation strategy including a practical compliance schedule for the variousrequirements. The Part 4 regulation is the product of their work.

PROPERTIES OF FLAMMABLE AND COMBUSTIBLE LIQUIDS

In order to appreciate the potential fire risks associated with flammable and combustible liquids, it is essential tounderstand some of the characteristics of these liquids. The following physical features significantly affect the fire andexplosion performance of these liquids.

When evaluating the fire risks of a flammable or combustible liquid, a readily available source of information is theMaterial Safety Data Sheets that must be available under the Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System(WHMIS) regulations. These sheets provide considerable useful information including the risks and precautions that mustbe followed when handling these products. If in doubt, treat the liquid as very hazardous until information can be obtained.

For burning to occur, flammable and combustible liquids must be present in their vapour state. The liquids do notactually burn.

Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid gives off sufficient vapour to form an ignitable mixture with the air

Commentary on Part 4--INTRODUCTION





















near the liquid surface.

A liquid that has a flash point in the range of normal ambient temperatures or lower will, without any external heating,evolve vapours at concentrations that can be easily ignited. A liquid with a higher flash point will require some heatingbefore sufficient vapours are given off to permit ignition. Therefore, higher flash point liquids present a lesser degree ofhazard.

In general, combustible liquids are considered to present a lower risk of fire or explosion than flammable liquids.However, heating of a liquid will increase its volatility or its ability to generate vapours. Therefore, any combustible liquidheated to or stored at or above its flash point may present the same degree of fire and explosion risk as a flammableliquid.

Flammable or explosive limits known as the lower explosive limit (LEL) or lower flammability limit (LFL) and the upperexplosive limit (UEL) or upper flammability limit (UFL) define the concentrations within which the vapour in air will burn.These limits are usually expressed as the percent of the vapour in air. In popular terms, a mixture below the LEL is too"lean" to burn or explode and a mixture above the UEL is too "rich" to burn or explode. The range between LEL and UEL isknown as the flammable or explosion range.

Ignition initiates self-sustained combustion. If this ignition is caused by an external spark, flame hot object, this is known aspiloted ignition. If ignition occurs without the assistance of an external source, this is referred to as autoignition. Thetemperature required to cause a vapour or gas to burn in the presence of air is usually considerably lower for pilotedignition than for autoignition.

Most flammable and combustible liquids have an ignition temperature in the range of 300oC to 550 oC. However, somehave much lower ignition temperatures. For example, carbon disulfide has an autoignition temperature of 100oC, thus, canbe ignited by a hot steam pipe.

Ignition temperatures observed under one set of conditions may be changed substantially by a change of conditions. Forthis reason, ignition temperatures should be looked upon only as approximations. Some of the variables known to affectignition temperatures include: percentage composition of the vapour air mixture, shape and size of the space in which theignition occurs, rate and duration of liquid heating and type and reactivity of other materials (e.g. catalysts) present in thespace in which the ignition occurs.

When a flammable or combustible liquid is heated to its ignition temperature, two sides of the "fire triangle" are present,namely the fuel and the heat, and all that is needed for a fire to occur is the presence of air (oxygen). In some cases, thisoxygen can be provided chemically where, for example, oxidizing chemicals are present.

Classification of flammable and combustible liquids is used in Part 4 to group liquids with similar fire and explosionproperties to better establish suitable levels of controls. By definition, combustible liquids are less volatile than flammableliquids. Therefore, the controls for combustible liquids are less stringent than for flammable liquids.

The classification systems used in Part 4 uses both boiling and flash point temperatures. For example, a Class IA liquid isdefined as those liquids having a flash point temperature below 22.8oC and a boiling point below 37.8 oC. Class IA liquidsare considered to be highly flammable because they are very volatile.

Vapour pressure is a measure of a liquid's propensity to evaporate. The higher the vapour pressure at a giventemperature, the more volatile the liquid and, thus, the more readily the liquid gives off vapours. Vapour pressure varieswith temperature, increasing as the temperature of the liquid increases, until it equals the pressure of the surroundingatmosphere and the liquid begins to boil.

Boiling point of a liquid is the temperature at which its vapour pressure equals atmospheric pressure. Above thistemperature the pressure of the atmosphere can no longer hold the liquid in the liquid state and bubbles begin to form. Thelower the boiling point, the greater the vapour pressure at normal ambient temperatures, and consequently the greater thefire risk. For any given liquid, the boiling point decreases with reduced pressure. For example, at increased elevationsabove sea level the boiling point of a liquid will be reduced. The boiling point of a liquid provides a good indication of itsvolatility.

Vapour density is the weight of a volume of pure vapour, with no air present, compared to the weight of an equal volume ofdry air at the same temperature and pressure. For example, a vapour density of 2 indicates that the vapour is twice asheavy as air. Vapours that are heavier than air tend to flow along the ground or floor and accumulate in low areas such aspits, trenches or basements.

Almost all flammable and combustible liquids produce vapours that are heavier than air. This is an important



consideration when designing ventilation systems to remove these vapours.

A useful rule of thumb when estimating vapour density is to compare the molecular weight of the vapour to the molecularweight of air. For example, toluene, a common solvent, has a molecular weight of 92 which is 3.2 times the molecularweight of air which is 29. Thus, toluene is more than three times heavier than air. Floor level ventilation may be required toremove these vapours.

Other properties such as viscosity and water miscibility are properties that may be important during fire fighting activities.Material Safety Data Sheets provide advice where other properties present unique hazards or are important during firefighting.

CONTROL OF HAZARDS

An introduction to the topic of fire and explosion would not be complete without a brief explanation of the "fire triangle" or"fire tetrahedron". A fuel, an ignition source and air (i.e. oxygen) will cause a fire (i.e. combustion, burning) to occurprovided that the fuel and oxygen are mixed in the correct proportions. The fuel may consist of any oxidizable material.Oxygen may be obtained from air or any chemical that releases oxygen molecules. An ignition source forms the third part ofthis "fire triangle".

A "fire tetrahedron" represents a more sophisticated description of the fire phenomenon because it refers to the chemicalreaction of burning. Certain chemicals, sometimes used in extinguishing agents, are known to interrupt this chemicalreaction. Even though the components of the fire triangle are known to be present, the interruption of a chemical reaction(i.e. burning) has introduced this fourth requirement.

Substitution of a less hazardous material is often the most cost effective method of reducing risk. Substituting anonflammable or combustible liquid for a flammable liquid may be an option. Hazardous process equipment (e.g. opendip tanks) may also be replaced with totally enclosed equipment.

Control of vapours by keeping lids closed, minimizing opportunities for spills, enclosing processes, and providing andmaintaining ventilation systems will reduce the opportunity for vapours to come into contact with air (i.e. oxygen) andignition sources. Vapour concentration should never exceed 25% of the LEL where it may come into contact with air and anignition source.

Elimination of ignition sources may be achieved by:bonding and grounding containers to prevent static build-up where liquids are transferred (see Appendix B foradditional information);

●

control of open flames, welding equipment, matches and lighters;●

controlling mechanical operations that may produce sparks and heat (e.g. grinding);●

using only forklift trucks and other moving equipment rated for use in flammable atmospheres (liquids may be spilledwhen a forklift truck drops or punctures drums);

●

ensuring that all electrical equipment including switches, lights and motors are rated for use in flammableatmospheres (e.g. Class I Division 2 electrical equipment);

●

maintaining equipment in good condition so that leaks and breakdowns are prevented;●

ensuring that hot surfaces from heating equipment, hot bearings, flues and process equipment are controlled oreliminated;

●

reducing the likelihood of spontaneous combustion due to oils and wastes reacting with oxygen to generate heat andflame; and

●

minimizing the possibility of mixing of incompatible chemicals that may react explosively and generate heat andflame.

●

Control of oxygen (e.g. air, oxidizers) may be achieved by controlling the air supply and chemicals that enter enclosedprocess vessels. Atmospheres inside of process vessels may be too rich (i.e. above the UEL) to burn. Strict operatingprocedures and regular maintenance of equipment may be used to ensure that air or chemical oxidizers do notinadvertently enter process equipment.

Inerting of equipment by injecting nitrogen is another technique used to eliminate oxygen. Maintenance work on flammableor combustible liquids containers is normally only performed after the container has been purged of vapours. If nitrogenor other inert gas is used to remove vapours, there is the potential risk of workers entering oxygen deficient atmospheres todo repairs.



Containment covers both primary and secondary means. Primary containment consists of the storage container (e.g. drum,tank), process vessel or piping. Secondary containment consists of the dikes, curbs, sills, ramps, walls, trenches or pitsused to contain spills. Secondary containment should also be designed to contain fire fighting water. Floor drains must besealed or specially designed to capture spills. Containing spills reduces the spread of burning liquids and environmentalcontamination.

Fire separations are designed to limit the fire spread to other compartments and assist firefighters in controlling a fire. Firewalls may also limit building damage.

Fire suppression provided by the fire department must be addressed by providing vehicle access routes, aisles andclearances to building walls or tanks. An automatic sprinkler protection, foam suppression system or other system mayalso be required.

Quantity and location limitations are specified to limit potential fire exposures to buildings and other property. Additionalprecautions are required as fuel loads increase.

Safe handling procedures are also specified to ensure that, for example, spills are cleaned-up using appropriate materials(see Appendix A for a model spill procedure). Housekeeping and maintenance requirements are also addressed.

Staff training in safe procedures is essential to ensure that potential risks associated with flammable and combustibleliquids are controlled.



























Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4--APPLICATION

SECTION 4.1 APPLICATION

Subsection 4.1.1. - Scope and Application

Scope

Part 4 contains provisions that apply to all occupancies, but also contains specific provisions that would apply only tosome occupancies.

Although not specifically stated in the scope of the Article, the following provisions in this Part are general requirements thatapply to any occupancy to which Part 4 applies, except as specifically provided elsewhere in this Part:

Sections 4.1, 4.3, 4.4, 4.10 and 4.11, anda. Subsections 4.2.1., 4.2.2., 4.2.3., 4.2.9., 4.2.10. and 4.2.11.b.

The following provisions in this Part contain specific exemptions from some of the general requirements referred to above:Sections 4.5, 4.6, 4.7, 4.8, 4.9 and 4.12, anda. Subsections 4.2.4., 4.2.5., 4.2.6., 4.2.7. and 4.2.8.b.

Throughout Part 4 there are references to the general requirements which would apply whether or not they are specificallyreferenced. This is intended to assist the user and does not mean that the general requirements do not apply if they are notspecifically referenced. Some of the locations where this type of reference occurs are:

4.1.5.1.4.2.6.5.4.2.7.6.4.2.7.10.4.2.7.13.4.2.8.7.4.2.9.3.4.2.9.7.4.3.12.7.(1)(b) & (c)

4.3.13.1.(1)(d)4.3.13.4.(2)4.4.9.3.4.6.3.3.4.6.4.5.(3)4.8.3.4.4.12.6.1.4.12.8.1.(1)

This part of the Fire Code applies to the storage, handling, processing and use of flammable and combustible liquidshaving flash points below 93.3oC. This part also applies to liquids that have a flash point above 93.3oC when processed,stored, handled or used at temperatures above their flash points.

Where a liquid is heated during, for example, processing, its vapour pressure (i.e. volatility) will be increased. Heatedliquids should be classified according to their operating temperatures. Article 4.1.2.2. specifies that "when a liquid having aflash point at or above 37.8 oC, is being processed, stored, handled or used at a temperature at or above its flash point, itshall be treated as a Class I liquid." (i.e. flammable liquid)

A flammable liquid is defined as any liquid with a flash point less than 37.8oC. A combustible liquid is defined as anyliquid that has a flash point equal to or greater than 37.8oC and below 93.3oC.

For fire protection purposes, a division between liquids and gases has been established. Liquids are those fluids withvapour pressures not exceeding 275.8 kPa at 37.8oC. Examples of liquids having vapour pressures exceeding 275.8kPa at 37.8oC that are not within the scope of Part 4 include liquefied petroleum gas, liquefied natural gas and liquidhydrogen. Butane, on the other hand, has a vapour pressure of 254.55 kPa at 37.8oC, and is classified as a flammable

Commentary on Part 4--APPLICATION





















liquid.

Another division has been established in the Fire Code between liquids and solids. NFPA defines a liquid as a materialhaving a fluidity greater than that of 300 penetration asphalt. This definition was selected to include materials that couldspread or flow on a hot day.

Buildings, structures and open areas includes areas such as tank farms, bulk plants, fuel dispensing stations, industrialplants, refineries, process plants, distilleries, and piers, wharves and airports that are not subject to federal legislation.Specific exemptions from the Ontario Fire Code are provided in Article 4.1.1.2.

Application and Compliance

Except for certain exemptions outlined below, the owner of an existing location where flammable and/or combustibleliquids are stored, handled or used, must comply with the requirements contained in Part 4 within the specified complianceperiods. Flexibility in achieving the objectives set out in Part 4 is provided by permitting a "compliance equivalency" whichhas been approved by the Chief Fire Official (see compliance equivalency below) and, in the case of process plants,using good engineering design to recognized standards. Additional information regarding the case of process plants maybe found in the Appendix to the National Fire Code which states:

"Certain areas in refineries, chemical plants and distilleries may not meet all Code requirements because of extraordinaryconditions. Design should be based on good engineering practice and on such factors as manual fire suppressionequipment, daily inspections, automated transfer systems, location of processing units, and special diking, piping, controlsand materials. NFPA 30, "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code" and NFPA 36, "Solvent Extraction Plants" areexamples of good engineering practice..."

In addition to NFPA standards, the Association of Petroleum Industries (API) standards outline good engineering design forsome equipment used at process plants. An owner may choose to conform to API standards where they provide acomprehensive package of safe design features. Some examples include:

API 620 Recommended Rules for the Design and Construction of Large, Welded, Low-Pressure Storage Tanks●

API 650 Welded Steel Tanks for Oil Storage●

API 1604 Removal and Disposal of Used Underground Petroleum Storage Tanks●

API 1615 Installation of Underground Petroleum Storage Systems●

API 2003 Protection Against Ignition Arising Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray Currents●

The Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) also publishes standards that may be relevant, such as:PEI RP 100 Recommended Practices for Installation of Underground Liquid Storage Systems●

U.S. Government Publications also provide some standards:Code of Federal Regulations, Title 40 "Technical Standards and Requirements for Owners and Operators ofUnderground Storage Tanks"

●

British Standards Institute (BSI) also publishes standards that may be appropriate for use such as:BS 3351 Piping systems for petroleum refineries and petrochemical plants●

BS 4994 Vessels and tanks in reinforced plastics●

BS 5908 Code of Practice for fire precautions in chemical plants●

BS 5958 Code of Practice for the control of undesirable static electricity●

Unless specifically addressed within the Code, Part 4 does not apply in situations and locations where the followingprovincial legislation and federal legislation apply:

for the transportation of flammable and combustible liquids through pipelines as regulated under theTransportation of Dangerous Goods Act and the Energy Act;

●

for appliances and their ancillary equipment (i.e. burning hydrocarbons) to which the Energy Act applies;●

for mines and mining plants as regulated under the Occupational Health and Safety Act;●

for gasoline and fuels regulated under the Gasoline Handling Act.●

Part 4 does not apply to the storage of flammable and combustible liquids on farms that are intended for individual useor to airports, piers and wharves which are regulated under federal law.



Aerosol products are not covered by Part 4. However, they should be stored according to NFC (1995) Subsection 3.2.5.Aerosol products pose unique hazards. Aerosol cans may contain both a flammable liquid (e.g. paint carrier) and apropellant which may be a flammable gas. Under fire exposure conditions, these cans may rocket. Rocketing aerosol canshave been known to quickly spread a fire over a large area.

Compliance Periods

Part 4 of the Ontario Fire Code became law on November 21, 1997. It provides for various phase-in periods to permitowners time to bring their facilities into compliance.

New construction completed on or after August 21, 1998 must comply with all provisions set out in Part 4 of the Ontario FireCode.

Sentence 4.1.1.1.(2) defines "existing" as being in existence on November 21, 1997.

Existing facilities must comply according to three different compliance periods:

By the effective date of August 21, 1998, there must be compliance with procedural (e.g. control of ignition sources,smoking, hot work, static electricity) and maintenance items (e.g. maintaining ventilation, fire and operating equipment,remedial action as result of a leak of flammable or combustible liquids and routine visual inspections for leaks).

By August 21, 2000, there must be compliance with equipment and process changes that have a high life safety impact(e.g. fire department access, spill control, ventilation).

By August 21, 2002, all other equipment and process changes must be made (e.g. protection from flooding, corrosionprotection on tanks, emergency venting on tanks) except for a few items that are "grandfathered".

Grandfathered items will not have to be met until major alterations or changes are made. These changes are potentiallyvery expensive and have minimal life safety impact (e.g. spacing of tanks, tank spacing to property lines and buildings).These changes are not cost effective unless the tanks need to be replaced.

Where a requirement with an earlier compliance date refers to another requirement with a later compliance date, theapplicable compliance date for the requirement shall be the later compliance date.

If one Article with a compliance date of August 21, 2000, makes reference to an Article with a compliance date of August21, 2002, it can be argued that the reference is to a requirement that the legislation has permitted a longer time to comply.Therefore, where no options are provided, those requirements that make reference to provisions that have later compliancedates should not be expected to be in compliance until the later compliance date.

Where a requirement provides several options for compliance and one or more of those options involve provisions with latercompliance dates, the applicable compliance date for the requirement shall be the compliance date of the originatingArticle.

However, where a requirement provides several options for compliance and one or more of those options involve provisionswith later compliance dates, it would be expected that the option with the earliest compliance date would apply. The ownerhas the option of complying with any one of the options, as long as compliance is achieved by the earliest date. It should benoted that the owner is not forced to comply with the option that has the most distant compliance date. If the owner ispermitted to comply with options at the later compliance dates, the original intent of the requirement would not be met andinconsistent levels of fire safety will result.

Compliance Equivalency

Where an owner wishes to vary from one or several or all of the requirements set out in Part 4 of the Fire Code, acompliance equivalency may be submitted.

A compliance equivalency permits the owner to vary the composition, design, size or arrangement of any material, object,device or thing from the composition, design, size or arrangement prescribed in Part 4 of the Fire Code where the factors ofstrength, health and safety are equivalent or superior.

Where an owner wishes to take advantage of this option, the owner must provide a detailed description explaining how thealternate arrangement will provide an equivalent or greater level of life safety and property protection when compared toPart 4 of the Fire Code. This report must be signed and stamped by a Professional Engineer or Architect and besubmitted to the Chief Fire Official in the area having jurisdiction allowing sufficient time for the work to be done plus 90days for the review by the Chief Fire Official, so that the work can be approved and completed by the compliance date setout in Article 4.1.1.4.



For new construction completed after the deadline set out in Article 4.1.1.4. (August 21, 1998), the application forcompliance equivalency must be made with the request for a Bbuilding Ppermit and at least 90 days before the start ofconstruction.

If the Chief Fire Official is unable to complete the review within the 90 day time period, the owner must be advised as towhen the response will be forthcoming. This extension must be added to the compliance time.

If the compliance equivalency is not approved by the Chief Fire Official, this official must give the reasons in writing. Theowner or agent may appeal this decision within 30 days in the same manner as if it were an Order issued under the FireProtection and Prevention Act, 1997 (FPPA).

A copy of the approved compliance equivalency must be kept on the premises to which it relates for the review of theChief Fire Official, upon request.

A compliance equivalency that has been approved and implemented will be considered as complying with the applicablerequirements of Part 4 for which a compliance equivalency was requested.

A Professional Engineer or Architect who signs and stamps a report for a compliance equivalency should have thenecessary technical knowledge and experience in fire prevention and protection as it pertains to the relevant processes andoperations.

Professional Engineers and Architects will be held accountable by their associations where they fail to practice withintheir area of knowledge and expertise. These associations have strict professional Codes of Ethics. Where a ProfessionalEngineer or Architect fails to work within these parameters, they may be subject to disciplinary action which may result inthe loss of their license to practice.

The Professional Engineer or Architect that submits the compliance equivalency does not necessarily have to be theperson that implements it. However, the owner is responsible for ensuring that the work that is done matches what wasapproved. This may involve retaining the Professional Engineer or Architect that submitted the compliance alternative oranother Professional Engineer or Architect to supervise the work.

Where a Code provision prohibits a certain activity, proposing a compliance equivalency is not appropriate. We haveidentified code provisions that specifically prohibit activities, therefore a compliance equivalency is not permitted for any ofthe following:

Subsections 4.1.1., 4.1.2., 4.1.3., Articles 4.2.1.1., 4.2.4.1., 4.2.4.3., 4.2.4.4., 4.2.6.1., 4.2.7.1., Sentences 4.2.7.5.(3) and(4), Article 4.2.8.1., Sentences 4.2.8.4.(5) and (6), Article 4.2.10.1., Sentence 4.2.10.3.(3), Articles 4.2.11.2., 4.3.1.1.,Sentences 4.3.1.2.(2) and (4), Article 4.3.7.9., Sentences 4.3.8.3.(2), 4.3.8.7.(1), Article 4.3.12.1., Sentences 4.3.12.6.(1),4.3.12.8.(2), 4.3.15.4.(1) and (2), Article 4.4.1.1., Sentence 4.4.4.1.(2), Article 4.4.7.6., Article 4.4.8.3., Sentences4.4.10.2.(2), 4.4.10.5.(1), 4.4.11.5.(4), Article 4.5.1.1., Sentence 4.5.2.2.(3), Articles 4.5.2.7., 4.5.6.1., Sentence 4.5.8.6.(3),Articles 4.5.8.7., 4.6.1.1., 4.6.3.1, 4.7.1.1., 4.7.2.1., Sentence 4.7.7.3.(3), Articles 4.8.1.1., 4.9.1.1., 4.9.2.1., 4.10.1.1.,4.10.4.3., 4.11.1.1., Sentence 4.11.3.6.(3), and Article 4.12.1.1.

Subsection 4.1.2. - Classification

Flammable and combustible liquids are classified into 3 categories. Care should be used in applying these classificationswhere the liquid is processed, used or stored at temperatures above ambient conditions. Increased temperatures can havethe effect of moving the liquid into a classification higher than would be appropriate under ambient conditions. For example,a Class II liquid processed at higher temperatures could require application of Class I requirements.

Class I includes liquids with a flash point below 37.8oC. These liquids are considered to have the highest risk of fire orexplosion because in the summer time it is not uncommon for storage areas to reach a temperature of 37.8oC which is theupper limit of flash points for this class of liquids.

Class I liquids are further subdivided as follows:

Class IA -flash point below 22.8oC and boiling point below 37.8oC

Class IB -flash point below 22.8oC and boiling point at or above 37.8oC

Class IC -flash point at or above 22.8oC and below 37.8oC

Under normal ambient temperatures both Class IA and Class IB liquids generate sufficient vapours to create vapour



concentrations within the flammable range at all times.

In some areas and in closed spaces, the ambient temperature could exceed 37.8oC or only a moderate amount of heatingwould be required to heat the liquid to or above its flash point. As a result, an arbitrary division of 37.8oC to 60oC wasestablished for liquids to be known as Class II liquids. Since liquids with flash points greater than 60oC would requireconsiderable heating from a source other than ambient temperatures, they have been identified as Class III liquids. Thesecombustible liquids are further subdivided as follows:

Class IIIA -flash point at or above 60oC and below 93.3oC

Class IIIB -flash point at or above 93.3oC

Since Part 4 is limited to liquids with a flash point below 93.3oC, Class IIIB liquids which are not heated above theirflashpoint do not fall within the scope of Part 4. These liquids are deemed to represent no greater fire hazard than othercombustibles such as plastic, wood or paper products.

Both Class II and Class IIIA liquids are considered as combustible liquids under Part 4. Any combustible liquid,including a Class IIIB liquid, heated to or above its flash point must be handled with the same precautions as a flammableClass I liquid.

Used lubricating oil from automobiles, trucks, tractors, etc. may be contaminated with gasoline. Therefore, Part 4 requiresused crankcase oil to be treated as a Class IIIA liquid.

Where Class I or II liquids are added to used lubricating oils, it is not possible to predict the flash point. Therefore, theliquid classification must be determined by testing in accordance with Subsection 4.1.3.

The classification system for flammable liquids used in this regulation is the same as the system used by NFPA. However,the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (TDGR) is different. For an analysis of the differences see AppendixTable A-4.1.2.1 of the National Fire Code.

Article 4.1.2.3. regulates used lubricating oil. However, Clause 4.1.1.2.(2)(d) exempts locations to which the GasolineHandling Act and the Energy Act apply. Gasoline stations which dispense fuel are regulated by the Gasoline HandlingAct and, therefore, any used lubricating oil would be regulated under the Gasoline Handling Act rather than by Article4.1.2.3. Article 4.1.2.3. applies to locations to which the Gasoline Handling Act does not apply.

Subsection 4.1.3. - Flash Point

Flash point is the minimum temperature at which a liquid gives off vapour in sufficient amounts to form an ignitablevapour/air mixture near the surface of the liquid. The term "lower flammable limit" describes the minimum concentration ofvapour below which flame propagation will not occur in the presence of an ignition source. The flash point of a liquidcorresponds roughly to the lowest temperature at which the vapour pressure of the liquid is sufficient to produce aflammable mixture at the lower flammable limit.

A liquid that has a flash point in the range of normal ambient temperatures (or lower) will, without any external heating,emit vapours at concentrations that can be ignited by a small source of ignition, such as a pilot flame or spark. A liquid witha higher flash point will require some heating before ignition is possible, thus presenting a lower risk.

When heated, some liquids that are a mixture of components will release their more volatile components. For example, No.6 fuel oil normally has a flash point above 60oC, but, when heated above its flash point, the volatility of the liquid isincreased and it assumes some characteristics of lower flash point liquids. The handling and use of these liquids at highertemperatures will generate flammable vapours that require the precautions outlined for flammable liquids.

There are two basic test methods for determining flash points - closed cup and open cup. Open cup flash pointsrepresent conditions with liquid in the open and are generally higher than closed cup flash point figures for the same liquid.Flash points referred to in Part 4 are determined using the ASTM D-56 closed cup test method. These flash points aremore conservative (i.e. provide a slightly larger margin of safety).

Subsection 4.1.4. - Electrical Equipment

In order to prevent electrical equipment from providing an ignition source in the presence of flammable vapours, electricalequipment manufacturers have designed "explosion proof" equipment that will prevent an explosion that occurs within theequipment from propagating into the surrounding atmosphere.



The Electrical Safety Code sets out equipment requirements based on the risks that may be present. Class I addresseshazards from flammable vapours and gases. Class II deals with combustible or electrically conductive dusts. Class IIIprovides requirements for easily ignited fibers and shavings. For Class I there are two Divisions. Division 1 represents thehigher risk zone where flammable gases or vapours are present all of the time (e.g. open containers such as dip tanks) orintermittently (e.g. drums opened for sampling and transfer). Division 2 zones include lower risk areas where flammablegases and vapours are enclosed in piping, tanks and process vessels and can only escape under abnormal conditions suchas spills due to punctures, equipment failure or inappropriate handling. Ventilation in a Division 2 location should normallyprevent the accumulation of gases. An example of a Class I Division 2 location would be a warehouse where flammable orcombustible liquids are stored in sealed drums (i.e. not opened for use). In this example, electrical equipment would berequired to ensure that there are no electrical ignition sources present when spills result from drums that are dropped orpunctured during handling.

Electrical classification of vapours and gases are further divided into Group A, B, C and D. Group A includes atmospherescontaining acetylene. Group B includes atmospheres containing hydrogen and gases of similar risk. Group C includesethylene, diethyl ether, acetaldehyde and other gases and vapours of equivalent hazard. Group D includes atmospherescontaining acetone, alcohol, gasoline, hexane, naphtha, lacquer solvents, natural gas, propane, or other gases or vapoursof equivalent hazard.

Additional information can be found in CSA's "A Guide for the Design, Construction and Installation of ElectricalEquipment"; in NFPA 30, "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code", and in NFPA 497A, "Classification of Class IHazardous locations for Electrical Installations in Chemical Process Areas".

Battery powered fork lift trucks used to move drums of flammable and combustible liquids may present an ignition sourcewhen drums are ruptured as a result of being dropped or punctured by the forks. These industrial trucks must be designedfor use in these hazardous environments. Trucks classified as type "EE" have their electrical motor and all other electricalequipment completely enclosed and would be suitable for Class I Division 2 locations. Trucks classified as type "EX" havesome additional design features that make them suitable for Class I Division 1 locations. Factory Mutual Loss PreventionData Sheet 7-39 and NFPA 505 provide additional details regarding industrial trucks including those powered by gasoline,diesel fuel and propane.

The Electrical Safety Code would apply even if there is no reference to it in Article 4.1.4.1. However, by referencing theElectrical Safety Code in the Fire Code, the fire service has the legal authority to require conformance with the ElectricalSafety Code.

Subsection 4.1.5. - Fire Prevention and Protection

This Subsection outlines a number of fundamental fire and explosion prevention techniques or principles that are applicablewherever flammable or combustible liquids are stored or handled. These include:

provision and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers;a. exclusion of sources of ignition, e.g. open flames, smoking, lighting, cutting and welding, hot surfaces, heatingequipment, frictional heat, static, electricity, mechanical sparks, spontaneous ignition, heat producing chemicalreactions and radiant heat;

b.

housekeeping measures to keep storage areas free of ground vegetation and other combustible materials;c. keeping liquids in closed containers or systems to prevent the vapours from escaping the container;d. ventilation to prevent the accumulation of vapours;e. explosion venting to reduce the potential impact of any resulting explosions; andf. provision and maintenance of aisles and access roads for fire fighting purposes.g.

This Subsection also requires that in all occupancies where more than 500 L of flammable or combustible liquids, or 250L of Class I flammable liquids are present, a fire safety plan must be prepared as set out in Section 2.8 of the Ontario FireCode. This plan must be approved by the Chief Fire Official and kept in the building in an approved location.

In general, flammable liquids should not be stored in basements because their vapours are usually heavier than air, thus,they tend to accumulate in low lying areas. However, up to 5 L of Class I liquid may be stored in a basement provided thatit is stored in safety containers conforming to ULC/ORD-C30, "Safety Containers". Factors such as the size of basement,ventilation, wiring and proximity to sources of ignition should be taken into account in determining risk and suitable methodsof control of vapours and ignition sources. Limited exemptions are provided for a dwelling unit and mercantileoccupancies.

Routine maintenance should include items such as pump packings or seals which require regular maintenance to preventleaks. Relief valves, flame arresters and valves are examples of other items that require regular maintenance.



Article 4.1.5.2. is currently reserved but was intended to be a list of all of the acceptable standards related to the installationof sprinkler and fire extinguishing systems. (See the commentary for Article 4.2.7.7.)

The intent of Article 4.1.5.9. is to ensure that heavier than air flammable vapors do not accumulate in below grade areas.Where continuous mechanical ventilation is monitored for operation, the potential for vapour accumulation in the belowgrade areas will be virtually eliminated under normal operating conditions.

The introduction of Sentence (4) will now permit other methods to achieve the intended objective. A fire safety plan will berequired regardless of the quantity stored or used in a laboratory. A one-hour fire separation is required for the area whereClass I liquids are stored and used in the laboratory. The limitation on the size of the container storing Class IA liquidsminimizes the potential for release of a large quantity of flammable vapour into the space in the event of a spill. WhereClass IA liquids are stored in small containers, explosion venting must be provided unless the liquids are stored in a storagecabinet. When all dispensing is carried out under a proper fume hood, the likelihood of vapour accumulation is furtherreduced and the need for explosion venting is not considered necessary. Sentence (5) permits existing plaster or gypsumboard, provided they perform as a membrane against the passage of heat and smoke. The limitation on the quantity ofliquid (250 L) and the requirement for the fire separation add a further level of safety. NFPA 45, "Fire Protection forLaboratories Using Chemicals", provides additional information on storage and use of Class I liquids in laboratories locatedbelow grade.

In order to minimize the potential of flammable vapour ignition occurring from sources of ignition that are usually found inthe basement such as a furnace pilot light, electrical outlets, etc., vapour detection is also required. Vapour detection neednot be provided where all the fixed sources of ignition are eliminated within 0.9 m from the floor (i.e. below the lab benchcounter) and procedures are in place to control all non-fixed sources of ignition.

It is also possible to submit a compliance equivalency under Article 4.1.1.5. for existing laboratories that may not be able tomeet all of the provisions of Sentence (4). The Article is editorially reorganized to distinguish between storage and use.NFPA 30 and the National Fire Code do not permit storage and use of flammable liquids in basements or pits. Therefore,the Ontario Fire Code permits basement storage and use only in existing laboratories (consistent with NFPA 45), wherethe quantities stored are low and dispensing is carried out only in very small quantities with appropriate precautions.

Subsection 4.1.6. - Spill Control and Drainage Systems

A containment system is required to ensure that the maximum credible spill of a flammable or combustible liquid can besafely contained or drained to a safe location. The design of a primary spill containment or drainage system does not needto include fire suppression water. Fire suppression media such as water and/or foam is applied when the spill is involved ina fire. Therefore the fire fighting water need not be included in designing a primary spill containment or drainage system.

Once the spill is involved in a fire, the method of dealing with an unknown quantity of fire fighting water is best handledthrough a fire safety plan (fsp) and/or pre-fire plan. The fsp must ensure that all critical areas, such as buildings, means ofegress, etc., in the path of such overflow remain accessible during the fire emergency and the flow of liquid is directedaway from such areas. Since the fsp is only required where the total quantity stored exceeds 500 L or 250 L of Class Iliquids, the provision for control of fire fighting water would not apply unless the quantity stored exceeds 500 L or 250 L ofClass I liquids. Measures for control can include provision for sealing sewer or catchbasin covers, and provision ofabsorbent materials and portable dikes.

Intent of spill control

A spill containment system is intended to capture the maximum credible spill of a flammable or combustible liquid. Thiscan be achieved by safely containing the liquid in the spill area or having it drain to a safe location. "Spill area" can beconsidered as the fire compartment when storage is located inside a building and the storage area when located outside.Fire fighting water need not be considered when determining the capacity of the primary spill containment or drainagesystem required in Sentence (1).

Once a fire is associated with a spill, fire fighting water from hose streams, suppression systems, etc., becomes a concern.The quantity of water involved is highly variable, based on the fire conditions and duration. As a result, the fire safety planand/or pre-fire plan must address spill management associated with application of fire fighting water.

Estimating credible spill capacity

The capacity of a credible spill should be based on the maximum quantity that can be released from containers located inthe storage area.

Where the storage (inside and/or outside) is in drums (not large vessels, Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC), tote●



bins or tanks), the capacity of a credible spill should be assumed to be at least 1000 L. This assumes lift truck forkscould spear a single pallet load containing four drums or the load is dropped. Where drums are not handled onpallets and hand trucks or clamp type lift trucks are used, the capacity of credible spill may be reduced to thecapacity of the largest container used.Where small containers are used, the size of a credible spill should be based on the number of containers that arelikely to be damaged in an incident. Where different sized containers are used, the size of the credible spill should bebased on the worst case scenario.

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For storage inside or outside buildings in IBC, tote bins or other bulk containers, and tanks inside buildings, thecredible spill capacity must be at least equal to the capacity of the largest container in the storage area.

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Outside storage tanks are required to comply with the provisions of Subsection 4.3.7.●

Consideration for the Fire Safety Plan

The fsp should ensure that all critical areas, such as buildings, means of egress, fire department access, control valves,fire alarm panels, etc., in the path of such overflow remain accessible during the fire emergency and the flow of liquid isdirected away from such areas. The plan should consider reliable and immediate notification of an emergency such asautomatic notification to fire department, which will facilitate early intervention. The plan should have measures includingdesign features that will minimize the resultant impact of effluent on adjoining property and the environment.

In order to develop a workable plan, the owner may require assistance from the fire department to provide some of therelevant information necessary to develop the plan. The owner is responsible for the development of the plan and havingthe plan approved by the Chief Fire Official. The owner should also ensure the approved plan is implemented. Periodic(annual) testing of the plan should also be carried out to identify any limitations of the plan and to familiarize the staff whoare assigned duties in the plan. The fsp is required to be modified when original assumptions and conditions change.

Where small quantities are presentWhere the quantity of flammable and combustible liquids does not exceed 500 L in total or 250 L of Class Iliquids, a fire safety plan is not required.

●

Where only small quantities (250 L to 5000 L) of flammable and combustible liquids are present, acceptablemeasures for spill control of the liquids and fire fighting water may include provision for sealing sewer or catchbasincovers, and provision of absorbent materials and portable dikes. These measures can prevent contaminatedeffluents from entering sewers or flowing to other areas.

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For additional information on the subject, reference should be made to the Ministry of the Environment, "Guidelinesfor Environmental Protection Measures at Chemical Storage Facilities", NFPA 30, NFPA 15, FM Data sheet 7-83,Society of Fire Protection Engineers Handbook and other industry specific publications on the subject.

●

Where large quantities are presentWhere a facility stores, handles or processes significant quantities (exceeding 5000 L) of flammable andcombustible liquids, a high level of expertise may be required to develop and implement an appropriate fsp. Insuch cases, the owner should ensure that professionals who have expertise in this area play a lead role indeveloping and implementing the fire safety plan.

●

Where fire suppression action may result in significant adverse impact on the community and/or the environment, acontrolled burn may be an option that can be considered. Evaluating a controlled burn option should involve keystakeholders such as the fire department, Ministry of the Environment, and the insurers.

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General information on spill control

Dikes, drainage ditches, impounding basins, curbs, site grading and raised door sills are examples of how spills andcontaminated fire fighting water can be contained and/or diverted away from waterways, sewers, potable waters sources, ameans of egress, adjoining property, or fire department access routes.

Once spills reach waterways, groundwater (often used for a potable water supply), public sewer systems or undergroundoccupancies such as subways and malls, etc., cleanup becomes difficult or nearly impossible.

Flowing streams of burning flammable or combustible liquids also have the potential to spread the fire to otherbuildings. Many of these liquids float on water. , thus, spill control measures must be of sufficient capacity to contain allcontaminated water from fire fighting activities.

The containment volume should be able to handle the water used for both manual and automatic fire suppressionoperations, plus credible product spill.



Depending on the circumstances this could include:water from the sprinkler system;●

water from hose streams (inside and firefighting); and●

product spills.●

The time duration required to calculate the combined water flow will depend on the overall suppression systemeffectiveness. When calculating the flow from the sprinkler system a minimum duration of 30 minutes should be used.Where it can be demonstrated that other suppression systems, such as foam, could achieve extinguishment in a shorterperiod of time, the owner may submit a compliance equivalency proposal for approval by the Chief Fire Official inaccordance with the requirements set out in Articles 4.1.1.5. and 4.1.1.6. of the Ontario Fire Code.

Spills of flammable and combustible liquids can spread very rapidly and expose a large surface area to produce vapourswhich, within an enclosed or non-ventilated area, can quickly accumulate to reach the lower explosive limit. Therefore,every effort should be made to ensure that systems used to transfer, process or store these liquids are maintained andoperated in a safe manner. Maintenance and operating procedures must be established and implemented to minimize thepossibility of a leak occurring.

Other measures used for control of spills include provision of catch basins that collect spilled materials in undergroundtanks.

Noncombustible aAbsorbent materials and portable containment dikes may be used to control small spills. The intent ofClause 4.1.6.3.(4)(a) is that the material used as an absorbent can not cause a spontaneous ignition hazard or chemicalreaction hazard when used with the flammable or combustible liquid that has leaked. Materials suitable for use with oneliquid may not be suitable with another.

The fire safety plan should include measures for responding to a situation where the containment area could be overfilled.For example, many owners maintain a list of clean-up companies that have vacuum trucks that can quickly respond tocollect contaminated water.

In any property or facility where flammable or combustible liquids are stored, processed, handled or used, there isalways the possibility of an accidental spill. When a liquid spill or leak does occur, the potential fire hazard must be quicklyand efficiently controlled. A written spill procedure and training are needed to ensure that employees can provide animmediate response. Personal protective equipment, clean-up supplies (e.g. spill kit) and tools must also be readilyavailable. A telephone list of management staff who are available on a 24 hour basis should also be maintained so thatknowledgeable persons can provide advice regarding potential hazards associated with the spilled materials. Appendix A tothis commentary contains a model spill control procedure to assist owners in developing their own procedures.

Waste materials must be disposed of per the requirements of the Ministry of the Environment and any local municipalby-laws.

A highly recommended method of draining a spill from a building is by grading the floor to divert the spill to a floor drainwhich is connected to an outside holding tank of adequate capacity to contain the spill plus any water used for flushing orfire fighting. The pipeline from the floor drain to the holding tank should be equipped with a trap that is designed to hold aliquid seal that will prevent the passage of gas vapours but will not materially affect the flow of a liquid. Draining spilledliquids out of the building greatly reduces the amount of vapours that can be released in the building and reduces the riskof fire and explosion.

Subsection 4.1.7. - Ventilation

Flammable and combustible liquid vapour is often present except where the storage is confined to sealed containers withno dispensing or where handling is in a closed system with vapour recovery. However, even in closed systems, there isalways the possibility of breaks or leaks which may permit liquid to escape resulting in the presence of vapours. Sincethese vapours are an easily ignited fuel source, ventilation is of prime importance to prevent an accumulation. Part 4contains detailed requirements for providing ventilation in rooms or enclosed spaces where flammable and combustibleliquids are processed, handled, stored, dispensed or used.

Almost all flammable liquids produce heavier-than-air vapours which tend to settle on the floor or in pits, stairwells,trenches or other areas below floor level. These vapours may travel long distances before encountering an ignition source.If ignited, a flash back may occur to the point of origin of the vapours.

Subsection 4.1.7. of this code represents a minimum level of "good practice" for preventing an accumulation of explosiveconcentration of vapours from flammable or combustible liquids.



There are two basic methods of ventilation, natural and mechanical. Natural ventilation relies on convection currents, windand vapour diffusion. Although natural ventilation has the advantages of not becoming ineffective during power failures andbreakdowns, it is usually not as effective as mechanical ventilation.

Natural ventilation may be adequate for the storage of flammable and combustible liquids, or the dispensing of Class IIand IIIA liquids. Such ventilation should consist of permanent openings at ceiling and floor levels leading to the outside. Atleast 0.1 m2 each of free inlet and outlet openings per 50 m2 of floor area should be provided.

A mechanical ventilation rate of at least 18 m3/h per square metre of floor area, but not less than 250 m3/h is normallyadequate for rooms with low floor to ceiling height or small enclosed spaces where Class I liquids are dispensed. Thisrepresents a ventilation rate of approximately six air changes per hour. Ventilation for process areas must be designed tosuit the nature of the hazard in accordance with good engineering practice.

This Subsection contains both performance and prescriptive ventilation requirements for areas outside an area classified bythe Electrical Safety Code as Class I, Division 1. These Part 4 requirements should be applied keeping in mind theobjective of ensuring that the flammable vapour concentration does not exceed 25 percent of the lower explosive limit ofthe vapour. The ventilation system is to be equipped with an automatic interlock so that the activity that generatesflammable vapours cannot be performed when the system is not in operation. Audible alarms to sound in the event offailure of the system must also be provided. These requirements also outline the locations of exhaust outlets and make-upair inlets for both lighter and heavier-than-air flammable vapours.

The intent of the reference to Article 4.1.4.1. is to describe a zone where a specified concentration of flammable vapourscannot be exceeded, not to specify electrical requirements.

The Electrical Safety Authority has confirmed that for a new installation, either the Zone or Division system could be used atthe owner/designer's option. Where an existing system is being modified or extended, whichever system had been used toclassify the original installation must be used for the modifications or extension. The name of the Act has been changed tothe Electricity Act, 1998.

The intent of Article 4.1.7.5. is to ensure that the ventilation openings for achieving natural ventilation are located so thatboth the make-up air and exhaust air are taken or discharged outside the building.

Subsection 4.1.8. - Handling of Flammable and Combustible Liquids

Flammable liquids should always be handled and dispensed in a well ventilated area, free of sources of ignition. Staticelectricity is an ignition source that requires appropriate precautions to be taken. Static electrical charges are generatedwhen liquids in motion contact other materials. Charge build-up commonly occurs in such operations as pumping, mixing,pouring, filtering or agitating. Under certain conditions, particularly with pure liquid hydrocarbons such as toluene, a staticcharge may accumulate within the liquid itself. If the accumulation is sufficient, a static spark may occur between the liquidand the container. If a flammable vapour/air mixture is present at the liquid surface at the time a spark occurs, a fire orexplosion could result.

When flammable liquids are dispensed into metallic containers, a metal bond wire must electrically connect the twocontainers to equalize the static charge. This charge must also be grounded to ensure that it is dissipated harmlessly.Similarly, process equipment (e.g. pumps, reaction vessels, tanks) should be bonded and grounded.

Paint and other coatings may electrically insulate metal containers. Therefore, it is essential to check bonding andgrounding by checking connections using an electrical resistance meter.

Non-metallic containers, such as plastic or glass, cannot be bonded. The build-up of static charges near the surface ofliquids being poured into non-conducting containers can be minimized by limiting the filling rate to velocities less than 1 m/s,using a grounded lance or nozzle extension to the bottom of the container, limiting free fall, or using antistatic additives.When top filling a container, high flow rates and free falling or splash filling of hydrocarbons are conditions which greatlyincrease the buildup of static electricity.

It is generally considered that liquids with a conductivity greater than 50 pS/m (Pico Siemens per metre) will dissipate staticcharges. These liquids will not accumulate a hazardous static potential. Experience has shown that most water miscibleliquids, crude oils, residual oils and asphalt do not accumulate significant static charges.

To minimize the possibility of leaks occurring during the dispensing and transferring of flammable liquids within abuilding, only specified types of containers or storage tanks as described in Subsections 4.2.3. or 4.3.1. may be usedduring this operation.

It is recommended that listed safety dispensing containers be used. Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ULC) and



Factory Mutual Engineering Corporation (FM) list these portable containers. These containers are constructed to minimizespills and vapour release. Further, they will not rupture during fire exposure. If dropped, the self-closing valve will cut of theflow of flammable/combustible liquid. Flame arrestors prevent flame propagation into the container.

Liquids can also be dispensed from their original shipping containers (barrels for example) using portable pumps or bygravity through a self-closing valve. This code requires such a pump or self-closing valve to be designed in conformancewith good engineering practice. Products tested and listed by recognized agencies are considered to meet thisrequirement. Underwriters Laboratories Inc., Underwriters Laboratories of Canada, Canadian Standards Association,Warnock Hersey and Factory Mutual Engineering Corporation have listed dispensing cans, pumps and self-closing valves.



























Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4--CONTAINER STORAGE AND HANDLING

SECTION 4.2 CONTAINER STORAGE AND HANDLING

Subsection 4.2.1. - Application

This Section is intended to address the hazards associated with the storage of flammable and combustible liquids inclosed containers. The principal hazard of closed container storage is the possibility of rupture due to over pressure ofthe container when exposed to the heat of a fire. This release of liquid during the fire may cause the rupture of othercontainers resulting in a rapidly spreading fire. Fire tests show that automatic sprinklers designed for ordinary hazardcombustibles may be inadequate to control a fire involving drums of flammable liquids or to prevent over pressuring ofcontainers that are piled too high.

This Section applies to all storage except:permanently constructed aboveground or underground storage tanks;a. containers located in fuel dispensing stations, bulk plants, refineries and distilleries, except as provided forelsewhere in this Part;

b.

fuel tanks of motor vehicles, aircraft, boats or engines;c. prepackaged containers or individual non-returnable containers not greater than 5 L in capacity which containalcoholic beverages, food and pharmaceutical products; and

d.

any product containing no more than 50% by volume of a water miscible flammable or combustible liquid and theremainder of the solution being non-flammable and packaged in containers not exceeding 5 L in capacity.

e.

The United States Department of Transportation has increased the maximum allowable size of Intermodal Bulk Containers(IBC's) and portable tanks to 793 gal (3000 L). These tanks are transported to Canada and therefore Transportation ofDangerous Goods legislation permits their use. Although the Fire Code limits the size of the portable tanks to 2500 L, thegeneral exemption of Part 4 to TDG would apply. Therefore the use of a TDG approved 3000 L IBC or portable tank wouldnot be in contravention of the Fire Code.

Subsection 4.2.2. - General

This Subsection contains some general requirements that pertain to flammable and combustible liquid storage incontainers 230 L in size or smaller and portable tanks 2,500 L or less in capacity. These requirements specify that:

(a) storage is to be arranged so that a means of egress or access to or from exits, elevators and principal routes are notobstructed or made impassable by radiant heat or flames if such storage were involved in a fire,

(b) the arrangement of containers provides stability to prevent toppling which could result in a container being damaged andleaking.

In order to provide stability of containers such as drums, skids should be used between vertical rows. Piling of drumsshould only occur onto full skids of drums. Plastic drums should not be used to support other loads because the heat from afire may quickly melt them causing piles to topple and spill.

The physical and chemical stability of the product stored may be affected by the manner in which the products are stored,i.e. height of storage, temperature, base area of a storage pile, etc. The intent of Article 4.2.2.2. is to ensure that in additionto the provisions of this Section, the method of storage of flammable and combustible liquids are such that

any piles will not collapse under normal operating conditions, and●

when subject to impact or extremes of temperature, the flammable or combustible liquids will not chemically reactto the extent that they will vigorously react or decompose or become chemically unstable in such a manner that it

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Commentary on Part 4--CONTAINER STORAGE AND HANDLING





















could result in a fire hazard.

Sentence 4.2.2.3.(1) specifies that flammable and combustible liquids be separated from other dangerous goods (i.e.products or substances which are regulated by the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Act) in conformance withSections 3.2. (Indoor Storage) and 3.3. (Outdoor Storage) of the National Fire Code, 1995. Of particular interest is Table3.2.7.6. of the NFC which specifies:

which dangerous goods are incompatible, thus, must not be stored in the same fire compartment;a. which dangerous goods are incompatible, thus, must be stored at least 1 metre horizontally from each other;b. dangerous goods which are permitted to be stored together; orc. storage must be determined after reviewing the appropriate Material Safety Data Sheets.d.

For the purpose of using this table, Class IIIA combustible liquids shall be treated as Class 3 dangerous goods.

Subsection 4.2.3. - Drums, Portable Containers and Prepackaged Containers

In order to ensure that containers meet a minimum set of criteria and will perform as intended under normal and fireconditions, all containers used for the storage, handling and use of flammable or combustible liquids must bemanufactured in accordance with some specified regulations. For example, Transportation of Dangerous GoodsRegulations specify construction requirements for most drums used in transport.

WHMIS requires most containers to be clearly labeled. Part 4 requires that all other flammable or combustible liquidcontainers be labeled. These labels must state that the material is to be kept away from ignition sources and that thecontainer be kept closed when not in use.

Glass or plastic containers may be permitted when such storage in metallic containers would adversely affect their chemicalpurity or would cause excessive corrosion of the container. Glass has the disadvantage that it is easily broken. Partially fullplastic containers may quickly melt when exposed to heat.

Part 4 does not set out design or construction requirements for containers less than 1 L in size for Class I liquids and 5 L forClass II and Class IIIA liquids.

Small sample containers not meeting the specified regulations can be used for quality control purposes or for testing byregulatory officials.

The requirements of Articles 4.2.3.1., 4.2.3.3. and 4.2.3.4. can be summarized as follows:Containers and portable tanks for flammable or combustible liquids shall be built in conformance with

the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (Canada),a. CSA-B376, "Portable Containers for Gasoline and Other Petroleum Fuels",b. CSA-B306, "Portable Fuel Tanks for Marine Use",c. ULC/ORD-C30, "Safety Containers", ord. Section 6 of CSA-B620, "Highway Tanks and Portable Tanks for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods".e.

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Exceptions:A container of not more than 1 L capacity for Class I liquids and 5 L capacity for Class II or IIIA liquids need notconform with the above.

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It is permitted to use sample containers not conforming to the above for quality control or testing purposes.●

It is permitted to use glass or plastic containers not conforming to the above when liquid purity would be affected bystorage in metal containers or corrosion would damage the container.

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Portable containers used in service areas for draining used oil from engines need not conform to the above.●

Subsection 4.2.4. - Assembly and Residential Occupancies

Assembly occupancies can be generally defined as structures where groups of people gather for purposes such asdeliberation, worship, entertainment or awaiting transportation but, for the purpose of this Subsection, does not includeschools, colleges or universities.

Assembly occupancies usually contain persons who do not use the building frequently and, therefore, are not familiarwith the location of exits, exit paths or other safeguards that may be present. In addition, many assembly occupancies



such as theaters, concert halls, night clubs, lounges and some restaurants, involve a large number of people. These peoplemay be exposed to conditions such as near total darkness which further increases the hazard to life safety. Therefore,assembly occupancies may only store limited quantities of flammable and combustible liquids in approved containers.These limits are:

30 L of Class I liquids,150 L of Class II liquids, or600 L of Class III liquid.

Where two or more classes of liquids are stored in an assembly building, the maximum total quantity permitted iscalculated based on the respective limit for each Class of liquid, such that the total does not exceed 1. For example, ifstorage were required for

10 L of Class I liquid,100 L of Class II liquid, and400 L of Class IIIA liquid,

the maximum total permitted quantity is calculated as follows:

10 + 100 + 400 = 1.6730 150 600

This total exceeds 1. Thus, the quantities of the liquids are too large and would have to be reduced so that the total doesnot exceed 1. For example, if the following quantities were stored,

10 L of Class I liquid,40 L of Class II liquid, and240 L of Class IIIA liquid,

the calculation now becomes:

10 + 40 + 240 = 1.030 150 600

This total is acceptable.

Occupants in residential buildings, such as single family dwellings, apartments, etc., spend part of their time sleeping. Afire that occurs at night may result in a delayed response due to sleeping occupants. Storage of flammable andcombustible liquids within a dwelling unit is restricted to a maximum of 30 L, of which not more than 10 L can be a ClassI flammable liquid.

Where garages or sheds are attached to a dwelling unit, they may be used for the storage of up to 50 L of flammable andcombustible liquids, of which not more the 30 L can be a Class I flammable liquid.

Storage of gasoline in a garage or shed (unattached)

The Fire Code does not have any requirements for the quantity of gasoline that can be stored in a garage or shedassociated with a residence and is not attached to the dwelling unit. If an owner plans to store gasoline in such astructure, it is recommended that it be located not less than 3 m from any other building or property line.

Article 4.2.3.1. states that containers for flammable or combustible liquids shall be built in conformance with one of thefollowing:

the Transportation of Dangerous Goods Regulations (Canada),a. CSA-B376, "Portable Containers for Gasoline and Other Petroleum Fuels",b. CSA-B306, "Portable Fuel Tanks for Marine Use",c. ULC/ORD-C30, "Safety Containers", ord. Section 6 of CSA-B620, "Highway Tanks and Portable Tanks for the Transportation of Dangerous Goods".e.

Note that Section 8 of the Gasoline Handling Code also has requirements for acceptable containers.

Subsection 4.1.7. has requirements for ventilation which apply to all occupancies regardless of the quantity of flammableor combustible liquid being stored. However, Sentence 4.1.7.2.(2) states that ventilation is not required for the storage ofClass I liquids provided that the storage consists only of closed containers and no dispensing operations are performed.



This means the generator cannot be refueled in the room where the gasoline is stored. Both for fire safety reasons and toreduce potential problems from carbon monoxide, the generator should be located outside unless it is located in a room orbuilding specifically designed for a fuel-fired appliance.

Subsection 4.1.6. requires that means be provided to contain any spill of gasoline that might occur. To limit the size of aspill, the gasoline should be stored in containers that do not exceed 25 L in size. The containment could take the form of anoncombustible, liquid-tight floor with a curb. Alternatively, the gasoline containers can be placed in a noncombustible,liquid-tight pan or tray of sufficient capacity to contain the contents of the largest container.

A fire extinguisher with a rating of at least 10BC should be located within 9 m of the gasoline storage area. Regardless ofthe quantity of gasoline stored, sources of ignition should be strictly controlled. To deter vandalism (or theft), the gasolineshould be stored in a building or other enclosure which can be secured against unauthorized entry.

Where the quantity or method of storage of gasoline being stored outside a building constitutes a significant hazard,Subsection 4.2.11. may apply.

Subsection 4.2.5. - Mercantile Occupancies

Mercantile occupancies (i.e. retail stores) can be generally described as buildings or structures used for displaying,selling, or buying of goods, wares or merchandise. This Subsection restricts the storage of flammable and combustibleliquids to prepackaged closed containers and sets limits on the amount of storage depending on whether the premisesare sprinklered or unsprinklered.

Since the container storage for this occupancy is for closed containerss only, with no dispensing, the likelihood offlammable vapours being present is very unlikely. Therefore, storage of these closed containers is permitted in thebasements of mercantile occupancies. To further reduce the possibility of a flammable vapour release, stacking heightsof the closed containers is restricted to a maximum height of 1.5 metres, or 1 metre for individual fixed shelves. Thisheight should prevent accidental toppling which could result in a container leakage. Where provided, or required, thesprinkler protection must be installed in accordance with NFPA 13, "Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems", anddesigned to NFPA 30.

Article 4.2.5.3. addresses the potential hazard where flammable vapours are released during transfer operations. It was notthe intent to prohibit the opening of small paint containers in retail areas for the purpose of tinting. Containers up to 21 L areroutinely used in the retail industry. Since the surface area of the exposed liquid is not significantly greater with the largercontainers, the amount of vapour released from these containers is not significantly increased from that of a container of 5L. Therefore, tinting operations involving paint containers not exceeding 25 L in capacity may be carried out in mercantileoccupancies outside of a room conforming to Subsection 4.2.9.

It is not the intent of this article to prohibit the opening of small paint containers in retail areas for the purpose of tinting.

Where excess quantities need to be stored, this storage shall conform to Subsection 4.2.7.

Subsection 4.2.6. - Business and Personal Services, Educational and Institutional Occupancies

Business and Personal personal Services services occupancies are occupancies used for the transaction of businessor the rendering or receiving of professional or personal services. Educational occupancies applies to nonresidentialschools, universities and colleges. Institutional occupancies includes occupancies where persons require supervisorycare or medical care and treatment and occupancies where persons are under restraint for correctional purposes and areincapable of self preservation because of security measures not under their control.

In order to ensure that the combustible loading within buildings will not increase to levels that could create a threat to lifesafety, the maximum quantities of flammable and combustible liquids have been specified. Excess quantities may bestored in a storage cabinet conforming to Subsection 4.2.10. or in a storage room that conforms to Subsection 4.2.9.provided there are no openings into the public areas of the building.

Subsection 4.2.7. - Industrial Occupancies

This Subsection deals with the storage of large quantities of flammable or combustible liquids, where this storage is theprincipal activity.

Article 4.2.7.1. specifies that this Subsection applies to storage of flammable and combustible liquids in closedcontainers in industrial occupancies.

The application of this Subsection should also include handling and use of flammable and combustible liquids in closed



containers in industrial occupancies. This Subsection makes reference to conditions that must be satisfied when liquidsare handled and used. Dispensing or transfer operations are only permitted in conformance with Subsections 4.2.8. or4.2.9., or Sentence 4.2.7.4.(2).

Article 4.2.7.2. refers to other articles which set out storage requirements for areas, rooms, cabinets and incidental use.

The storage of larger quantities of flammable and combustible liquids often found in industrial occupancies representsthe potential for significant fire risk. Article 4.2.7.3. requires a fire compartment to be separated from the remainder of thebuilding by a fire separation having a fire-resistance rating of at least 2 hours.

Article 4.2.7.4. permits dispensing and transfer of Class I or II liquids in a smaller storage area of not more than 100 m2where the requirements set out in Subsection 4.2.9. have been met. Some limited dispensing is also permitted as inSubsection 4.2.8., provided precautions set out in that Subsection are met. Otherwise, dispensing or transfer of Class I or IIliquids must be conducted in separate rooms that conform to Subsection 4.2.9.

Article 4.2.7.5. sets out the maximum permissible storage quantities of flammable and combustible liquids in closedcontainers for industrial occupancies. The maximum quantities of flammable or combustible liquids that can be storedare outlined in Tables 4.2.7.A. and 4.2.7.B. However, when buildings dedicated to the storage of such liquids areseparated from other adjacent buildings, either by a spatial separation (Ontario Building Code 3.2.3.) or by a 4 hourfirewall, and these buildings are protected by automatic sprinkler systems installed in accordance with Article 4.2.7.7., themaximum quantities of such liquids are not limited.

The limits on the quantities may be exceeded if a suitable compliance equivalency under Article 4.1.1.5. is approved. Thecompliance equivalency should include the following features:

the building or the portion of the building containing the flammable liquids should be designed for the storage offlammable or combustible liquids,

●

the storage is protected in conformance with Article 4.2.7.7.,●

drainage is provided to contain any spill and sprinkler discharge to an area not exceeding the design area of thesuppression system ,

●

a standpipe system conforming to Articles 3.2.9.2. to 3.2.9.7. of the 1997 Ontario Building Code (O. Reg. 403/97) isinstalled in the fire compartment, such that all parts of the fire compartment are within reach of a hose stream,and

●

the protection system is designed to either control or extinguish a fire involving the storage within a specified designarea. Where the drainage of any spill and the sprinkler discharge is designed to contain the fire to an area notexceeding the design area of the suppression system, the fire is not expected to escalate beyond this area.

●

Frequently, industrial storage involves liquids of different flash points stored in the same area. The maximum quantity ofliquids may be calculated according to the following example:

For an unsprinklered industrial occupancy located on the first storey:1000 4 liter containers of Class IA liquids

500 20 liter containers of Class IC liquids50 drums (205 liters) of Class II liquids

250 drums (205 liters) of Class IIIA liquids

This amounts to the following quantities:Class IA - 1000 x 4 = 4,000 litersClass IC - 500 x 20 = 10,000 litersClass II - 50 x 205 = 10,250 litersClass IIIA - 250 x 205 = 51,250 liters

The maximum quantity permitted is determined by the requirements of Sentence 4.2.7.5.(4) as follows (refer to Table4.2.7.5.A for unprotected storage):

4000 + 0 + 10000 + 10250 + 51250 2500 10000 10000 30000 100000

= 1.6 + 0.0 + 1.0 + 0.34 + 0.51 = 3.45



This total exceeds 1. Therefore, the quantities of the various classes of liquids are too large for an unprotected area. Twoalternatives are available to comply with the requirements:

a) reduce the quantities of liquids to be stored orb) sprinkler protect the storage area in conformance with Table 4.2.7.5.A. for protected storage on the first storey.

If the area is sprinklered, the maximum quantities permitted are as follows:

4000 + 0 + 10000 + 10250 + 51250 50000 60000 60000 100000 200000

= 0.08 + 0.0 + 0.167+ 0.103 + 0.256 = 0.606

This total is now less than 1 and, thus, acceptable.

Sentence 4.2.7.5.(2) sets no limit to the total quantity of flammable and combustible liquids in a separate or detachedstorage building. Although total quantity limits of Tables 4.2.7.A and 4.2.7.B do not apply, the quantity and heightlimitations specified for the individual storage areas must be met to take advantage of the exemption for total quantitylimits.

With the current wording in the Fire Code, it is not obvious how to deal with a mixture of solid piled and rack storage. Whenflammable or combustible liquids are stored in a single fire compartment in solid pile or rack storage configurations or acombination of both, the maximum quantity permitted for each class should be calculated as follows:

Where:

qIA, IB or IC =the actual quantity of Class IA, IB or IC liquid present in rack or solid pileqII =the actual quantity of Class II liquid present in rack or solid pile

qIIIA =the actual quantity of Class IIIA liquid present in rack or solid pileQIA,IB or IC =the maximum quantity of Class IA, IB or IC liquid permitted in Table 4.2.7.A. or

4.2.7.B. for the arrangementQII =the maximum quantity of Class II liquid permitted in Table 4.2.7.A. or 4.2.7.B. for

the arrangementQIIIA =the maximum quantity of Class IIIA liquid permitted in Table 4.2.7.A. or 4.2.7.B. for

the arrangement

The calculations are based on proportional amounts of each type of liquid that is stored in a particular configuration, i.e.rack storage or solid piled. The modified formula clarifies how the maximum quantities can be determined when storage isprovided in either solid piled or rack storage configurations or a combination of both. The modified formula accommodatesboth a single class of liquid or "2 or more classes" of liquid stored in both rack and solid pile arrangement.

Although Article 4.2.7.7. is located in Subsection 4.2.7., the provisions of this Article would apply wherever protection isrequired in Part 4. Where protection is required by this Part, a sprinkler system installed in conformance with NFPA 30,"Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code", or a fire extinguishing system installed in conformance with the appropriatestandard would be considered to meet the intent of the code. Appropriate standards for the installation of fixed fireextinguishing systems are:

NFPA 11, "Low-Expansion Foam",i. NFPA 11A, "Medium- and High-Expansion Foam Systems",ii. NFPA 12, "Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems",iii. NFPA 12A, "Halon 1301 Fire Extinguishing Systems",iv. NFPA 12B, "Halon 1211 Fire Extinguishing Systems",v. NFPA 13, "Installation of Sprinkler Systems",vi. NFPA 15, "Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire Protection",vii. NFPA 16, "Deluge Foam-Water Sprinkler and Foam-Water Spray Systems",viii. NFPA 16A, "Installation of Closed-Head Foam-Water Sprinkler System"ix.



NFPA 17, "Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems",x. NFPA 17A, "Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems",xi. NFPA 18, "Wetting Agents".xii. NFPA 69, "Explosion Prevention Systems"xiii. NFPA 231, "General Storage",xiv. NFPA 231C, "Rack Storage of Materials", orxv. NFPA 750, "Water Mist Fire Protection Systems".xvi.

It should be noted that this list contains standards that are not included in Article 6.8.1.1. Acceptance of a fixedextinguishing system based on a standard not included in Article 6.8.1.1. must be based on the submission of a complianceequivalency under Article 4.1.1.5.

Article 4.2.7.7. sets out two options for fixed fire suppression systems including those set out in Section 6.8 SpecialExtinguishing Systems (e.g. foam sprinkler, water spray, carbon dioxide, dry chemical systems) or sprinkler protection asset out in NFPA 30, "Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code".

Sentence 4.2.7.8.(1) specifies a minimum clearance of 450 mm between the top of storage and the lowest structuralmembers, sprinkler head deflectors or other overhead fire protection system components. This clearance is required toensure that a proper spray pattern from the sprinkler head can be formed.

Sentence 4.2.7.8.(2) requires a wall clearance of 400 mm unless the depth of storage between an aisle and the wall doesnot exceed 1.5 metres. This arrangement is intended to permit visual inspection of the containers and to assist in firefighting activities.

Article 4.2.7.9. requires (except as provided in 4.2.7.10.) that aisles be provided allowing access for fire fighting purposes toall portions of the storage. This article Article refers to Article 3.2.2.2. of the National Fire Code which specifies that aislesmust be not less than 1.0 metre wide to access fire protection equipment and access panels. Where storage rooms arelarger than 100 m², they shall be provided with at least one main access aisle. This main aisle must have a minimum widthof 2.4 metres for storage heights of not more than 6 metres and 3.6 metres for storage heights of more than 6 metres. If thebuilding is sprinklered and the products are stored in racks, the main access aisle does not need to exceed 2.4 metres inwidth. The main access aisle must be accessible from at least 2 fire department access points, preferably located asremote from each other as possible. All aisles must be kept clear of obstructions. Dead-end aisles should be minimizedbecause of the risks they present to occupants during egress. Fire department access to storage areas may be providedby doors or access panels directly from the outdoors or through another fire compartment in the building.

Article 4.2.7.11. requires that combustible materials other than those used for packaging of flammable or combustibleliquids not be stored in the same individual storage area with containers of flammable and combustible liquids.Examples of combustible materials include piled empty pallets, paper products, lumber, plastics and polyurethane foam.

Article 4.2.7.12. requires absorbent materials to be available to clean up spills of flammable or combustible liquids.These absorbent materials must conform to ULC/ORD-C410A. Clean-up and disposal procedures must also conform torequirements set out in Part X (Spills) of the Environmental Protection Act.

Article 4.2.7.13. requires storage areas to be ventilated in conformance with Subsection 4.1.7.

Subsection 4.2.8. - Incidental Use

There are industrial occupancies where the storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids is only incidental, orsecondary to the principal activity. The word "incidental" does not imply "small quantity", or "insignificant amount".Manufacturers of electronic equipment, furniture, reinforced plastic boats and automobile plants are typical examples oflocations where the use of flammable and combustible liquids is secondary to the principal activity of manufacturingconsumer products. In storage areas otherwise governed by NFC Part 3, Subsection 4.2.8. applies to the "incidental"storage of flammable and combustible liquids that is deemed to be secondary to the principal activity of storingcommodities covered in NFC Part 3. This includes the storage of used lubricating oil in the warehouse portion (industrialoccupancy) of a retail outlet. Subsection 4.2.8. also applies to the storage of used lubricating oil at motor vehicle repairand service garages because such storage is secondary to the principal activity of repairing and servicing motor vehicles.

Maximum quantities of flammable and combustible liquids are specified. These quantities may be exceeded wherenormal plant activities require larger volumes, however, these quantities should not exceed more than the supply for oneday of activity.



The references to the NFC in Article 4.2.8.4. have caused some confusion in the past. The intent of Sentence (2) may besummarized as follows:

The storage area referred to in Sentence (1) shall be sprinklered in conformance withNFPA 231, "General Storage", where the height of storage is greater than 3.6 m in piles, on pallets, onshelves, or in bin boxes, or

a.

NFPA 231C, "Rack Storage of Materials", where the height of storage is greater than 3.6 m in racksb.

●

providing a level of protection not less than that required for Class IV commodities stored up to a height of 6 m. Thissummary better conveys the intent of the requirement.

Subsection 4.2.9. - Rooms for Container Storage and Dispensing

This Subsection applies when both storage and dispensing operations are carried out in the same area.

Article 4.2.9.1. requires that rooms where flammable and combustible liquids are stored have a fire separation from therest of the building as specified in Table 4.2.9.A. This table allows quantities to be doubled where the storage room isprotected by an automatic fire suppression system that conforms to Article 4.2.7.7. Class I liquids stored in an unprotectedstorage room having a fire-resistance rating of at least 2 hours shall not exceed the maximum quantities specified forunprotected storage in Table 4.2.7.A. and shall comply with Sentences 4.2.7.5.(3) and (4).

Article 4.2.9.2. specifies provisions for spill control of flammable and combustible liquids. This article refers to Subsection4.1.6. for design requirements of these systems. In most cases, the more strict requirements set out in the IndustrialRegulations under the Occupational Health and Safety Act will require that a drain be installed that is connected to a drysump or holding tank. This is an existing requirement that is designed to protect worker health and safety during spillclean-up. Subsection 4.1.6. specifies that the system be designed to contain any spill, including water used for fire fightingpurposes. For design purposes, the containment system should be able to retain water discharged from automaticsuppression systems and manual fire fighting hoses.

For the purposes of this regulation, these volumes can be estimated from the flows and durations set out in Table 5-2.3 (i.e.Hose Stream Demand and Water Supply Duration Requirements) and Figure 5-2.3 (i.e. area/density curves for automaticsprinkler design) in NFPA 13. The containment systems should be of sufficient height to contain the spill or divert the spill toa drainage system that will not create a fire hazard or any risk to health or safety or the natural environment and direct thespill away from buildings, means of egress, ffire department access roadways, or valves controlling the flow offlammable or combustible liquids or water supplies for fire fighting. Walls of the room must be liquid-tight where they jointhe floor to prevent flammable and combustible liquid spills from seeping into other areas.

In most cases, the storage, fire suppression and containment system should be designed by an engineer or architectfamiliar with the risks associated with flammable and combustible liquid storage. This engineer or architect should alsobe familiar with alternate strategies to reduce fire fighting run-off water such as by using automatic foam suppressionsystems.

Article 4.2.9.3. specifies that these storage rooms must be provided with ventilation in accordance with Subsection 4.1.7.

Article 4.2.9.4. requires access aisles of at least 1 metre width. This is intended to permit unrestricted access to all roomexits and to fire protection equipment (i.e. sprinkler control valves, fire hose stations, fire alarm stations, and portable fireextinguishers).

Article 4.2.9.5. requires the use of a pump, self-closing valve or faucet designed in conformance with good engineeringpractice when dispensing flammable or combustible liquids containers from containers having a capacity of more than 30L.

Article 4.2.9.6. now sets the minimum standard to which explosion venting must be provided when required by the FireCode.

Article 4.2.9.6. specifies that for rooms where Class IA or IB liquids are dispensed, explosion venting must be provided.Explosion venting consists of devices designed to open at a predetermined pressure to relieve the internal pressurebuild-up within the room, thereby preventing major structural and mechanical damage to the building. NFPA 68 sets outgood engineering practices. Deflagrations must be safely vented into areas not normally occupied by workers or the public.

Article 4.2.9.7. requires that portable fire extinguishers be provided for this storage and/or dispensing room as specified inSection 6.2 of the Ontario Fire Code.

Article 4.2.9.8. specifies the exiting requirements set out in the Industrial Regulations under the Occupational Health and



Safety Act regarding egress from a dispensing room that has an area greater than 15 m2 or the travel distance from anypart of the room exceeds 4.5 metres. These requirements include exit doors that swing outwards, a door located within 23metres from any point in the room, and at least two exits located at least three-quarters of the maximum diagonaldimension of the room from each other.

Subsection 4.2.10. - Cabinets for Container Storage

In order to minimize fire safety hazards associated with the storage and handing of flammable liquids in cabinets, someprocedural and operational features are listed below. Subsection 4.2.10. and Section 4.12 contain additional requirements.

liquids or other hazardous materials that are not compatible with each other should not be stored in the samecabinets; (see Article 4.2.2.3.)

●

only liquids should be stored in the cabinets;●

cabinets are not intended to store cylinders of compressed or liquefied gases, especially those that are flammable;●

glass containers should be stored in cabinets specially designed for this purpose;●

manufacturers' instructions should be followed regarding installation, maintenance and usage of these cabinets;●

where a venting system is installed it should not compromise the performance of the cabinet during a fire;●

containers should be kept closed when stored in the cabinet;●

cabinets should not be located in close proximity to open flames and other potential sources of ignition;●

any spills of liquid on the outside of a container should be cleaned prior to it being placed in the cabinet; and●

leaking containers should not be placed in the cabinet.●

Often, specially constructed cabinets are used to store limited quantities of flammable and combustible liquids in closedcontainers. Since these cabinets and their contents may constitute a significant fire load, the total volume of these liquidsis limited to 500 L of which not more than 50% may be a Class I liquid. Up to three times this volume of liquids may bestored in a group of these specially designed cabinets within a fire compartment. In an industrial occupancy, additionalgroups of cabinets may be stored in the same fire compartment provided each group of cabinets is separated by adistance of at least 30 metres.

Institutional occupancies must not exceed the volume limitations set out for one cabinet for each fire compartment.

Cabinets shall be clearly labeled to indicate that they contain flammable materials and that all open flames must be keptaway from the cabinet. Usually these cabinets are painted red or yellow.

These cabinets must be designed to provide a degree of fire protection for their contents. The cabinets must be constructedsuch that the internal temperature rise is limited to 1390C above ambient temperature when the entire cabinet is subjectedto a standard fire test for 10 minutes.

Cabinet ventilation may be provided as long as the vents terminate outside the building and the vent line is constructed ofsteel piping. Cabinets not provided with vent lines must have the vent openings in the cabinet stopped with a metal plug.

Many cabinets, both existing and new, are not listed or approved to the ULC standard. Other listed cabinets such as FMapproved, listed to NFPA 30, or ULI that have comparable performance to the ULC standard are acceptable.

Subsection 4.2.11. - Outdoor Container Storage

The storage of flammable and combustible liquids represents a significant fire load and, therefore, quantities must becontrolled to keep the hazard and fire loss potential within manageable limits. Physical separations must be providedbetween areas, storage piles, buildings and property lines to act as a barrier to fire spread. Table 4.2.11.A. specifies thequantities and arrangement of outdoor storage of flammable and/or combustible liquids in drums, portable containersand prepackaged containers.

Sentence 4.2.11.1.(2) allows the minimum separation distance from a storage pile (e.g. drums) to a buildings to be waivedwhere 5000 liters or less of flammable or combustible liquids are stored adjacent to a one storey flammable orcombustible liquid storage building or where the exposed building wall has a 2 hour fire-resistance rating with noopenings in the wall within 3 metres of such outdoor storage.

Article 4.2.11.2. specifies that for situations where outdoor storage piles involve liquids of varying flash points, themaximum quantity permitted in the pile shall equal the quantity permitted for the liquid with the lowest flash point.

Article 4.2.11.3. requires an access lane with a minimum width of 6 metres to be provided to allow fire department vehicles



to within 60 metres of any part of the pile to carry out fire fighting activities.

Article 4.2.11.4. requires spill control measures that conform to Subsection 4.1.6. This Subsection requires the safecontainment of all flammable and combustible liquids and contaminated water used in fire fighting activities.

Arson has proven to be a significant ignition source where security measures have been absent. Therefore, Article 4.2.11.5.requires outdoor container storage areas to be enclosed by a fence at least 1.8 metres in height and equipped with gateswhich are kept locked unless the facility is staffed.



























Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4--TANK STORAGE

SECTION 4.3 TANK STORAGE

Subsection 4.3.1. - Design, Construction and Use of Storage Tanks

The amendment provides a means by which existing tanks that are still functional and structurally sound and have manymore years of useful life may continue to be used. Without this amendment, any existing tank that does not meet one of thelisted tank standards would have to be replaced by August 21, 2000. This was not the original intent of the provision. Thecriteria set out in Sentences (5) and (7) are similar to those used in the ULC standards on refurbishing (S601A and S630A)and verifiable through inspection. This permission for existing tanks would not grandfather provisions set out in Subsectionsother than 4.3.1.

Sentences (6) and (8) would require upgrading or replacing of existing tanks that do not meet one of the listed standards, orhave not been designed to good engineering practice or the acceptance criteria in Sentences (5) or (7). Changing thereference in Clause (1)(p) replaces a reference to a standard that no longer exists with the current standard. The inclusionof Sentence (9) means that existing tanks that met the former ORD C142.16 will continue to be acceptable.

This Section applies to storage tanks where capacity exceeds 230 liters used for storing flammable and combustibleliquids above and below ground. Due to the wide variety of liquids along with their respective properties being stored, thereis no one single standard applicable to the design and construction of these tanks. Most aboveground storage tanks areconstructed of steel. However, the use of other non-combustible material may be permitted provided the storage tank isused to store a combustible liquid. As well, if properties of the liquid necessitate the type of material the tanks must beconstructed from and the tank is protected against fire exposure by an approved method, other non-combustible materialsmay be used.

Underground storage tanks may be constructed of combustible materials when built in accordance with CAN4-S615-M"Standard for Reinforced Plastic Underground Tanks for Petroleum Products."

Aboveground storage tanks are either designed as atmospheric or low pressure tanks. The term "atmospheric tank" isdefined as a tank operating at pressures from atmospheric up to and including 3.5 kPa. A "weak shell-to-roof" joint design(API Standard 650) can be found in many atmospheric tanks. This design allows for the failure of the weak seam of thisroof to shell joint in the event of an over pressure buildup within the tank. Tank failure at the top of a tank will permitvapours to be released while containing the liquid contents. Pressure vacuum valves are provided to accommodate normalpressure fluctuations due to the filling and emptying of the tanks and changes in temperature.

Low pressure tanks are shop fabricated and leak tested prior to being shipped as completely assembled units. These tanksare designed for pressures greater than 3.5 kPa up to 100 kPa (gauge). Generally, normal internal operating pressure is6.9 kPa while 17.2 kPa results in emergency venting conditions. These restrictions recognize that failure of a horizontallow-pressure tank is invariably accompanied by the release of tank contents.

This Subsection outlines the various standards permitted for the design and construction of both atmospheric andlow-pressure storage tanks. An existing atmospheric tank may be approved provided its calculated internal and externalcorrosion loss expected during the design life of the tank does not exceed that provided for in the original design. Wherecalculations indicate a higher corrosion rate, additional metal thickness, protective coating or approved lining shall beprovided such that the corrosion loss standard for the original design is met. Tanks may be lined or sprayed withcombustible or non-combustible material to provide corrosion protection. As the quantity of the lining material used is small,the fact that it is combustible or non-combustible does not matter. However, this lining must not increase the risk of ignitionfrom static electricity and must be compatible with and resistant to degradation from the liquid stored in the tanks.

The air space within the storage tank above the flammable or combustible liquid surface will contain the vapours of theliquid. As the ambient temperature rises, more of the liquid will evaporate. These vapours can then be lost to theenvironment during venting especially when the tank is being filled. To reduce this evaporation, a floating roof was

Commentary on Part 4--TANK STORAGE





















designed to float on the liquid surface. This design is particularly beneficial for Class I liquids and serves as an excellentenvironmental protection device. A floating roof tank is defined as one that incorporates either:

a pontoon or double-deck metal floating roof in an open top tank and is known as an open top floater; ora. a closed top tank with ventilation slots at the shell top and eaves in accordance with API Standard 650 andcontaining a metal floating structure essentially covering the entire liquid surface.

b.

This floating structure must be constructed of metal (except for the perimeter sealing material) and must be sufficientlybuoyant to prevent it from sinking when half of the pontoons or floats are punctured and flooded. Most fires in this design oftank burn only at the seal area and are usually easily extinguished.

A tank with an internal floating pan or one that uses plastic foam for floatation is considered to be equivalent to a fixed rooftank. This is because metal pan roofs are prone to sinking and because foamed plastic and similar floatation devices willnot withstand the conditions imposed by fire. Though not recognized by Part 4, these can serve as good conservation andenvironmental devices.

Experience has shown that tanks having floating roofs are not likely to be involved in serious fires. This is because there isfar less liquid surface exposed to the fire.

Each tank must be clearly labeled as to its contents. Lettering size readable from 4.5 metres away or from outside the tankdike area, whichever is greater and from two diagonally opposite tank sides is required. Labeling will assist the firefighterswhen they arrive on the scene by allowing them to determine the best means to extinguish the fire and the most appropriateextinguishing agent to use. In situations where tank contents are frequently changed, a label indicating "flammable liquid"may be used subject to the approval of the Chief Fire Official. In plants and refineries where qualified personnel,knowledgeable in the various tank contents are on site 24 hours/day and 7 days/week to assist the fire department, acoded identification may be approved.

A serious fire hazard results when an aboveground storage tank is overfilled with a flammable liquid (Class I). To preventthis, Part 4 requires continuous supervision of the filling process by a qualified person or by the use of an overfill protectiondevice conforming to ULC/ORD-C58-15, "Overfill Protection Devices for Flammable Liquid Storage Tanks". Examples ofdevices used to prevent overfilling include automatic sensing devices interconnected with shut-off equipment, automaticoverfill shut-off devices of a float valve, vent restriction devices, and audible or visual overfill alarm devices.

Overfilling a tank is most likely to occur when liquids are being transferred from facilities having a large capacity incomparison to the tank capacity. Examples of operations where overfilling is likely is pipeline deliveries and deliveries fromlarge marine vessels. To prevent overfilling during such liquid transfer operation, the tank owner shall comply with one ofthe following requirements:

during the transfer operation, a person shall be in constant attendance at the receiving tank, gauging the liquid levelfrequently and be equipped with effective two-way communication to the source to ensure prompt shut-down whenthe tank is full or to divert the flow to another tank;

a.

the receiving tank is equipped with an independent height liquid level alarm, which on detecting a high level sendsan audible or visual alarm or both, to a constantly attended location where appropriate action can be taken toprevent overfilling, or

b.

the receiving tank is equipped with an independent high liquid level alarm which on detecting a high level willautomatically shut-down the liquid flow or divert the flow to another tank also equipped with high level shut-downfacilities.

c.

The instrumentation referred to in b) and c) must be fail safe and supervised electrically to a constantly attended location orby a method approved by the Chief Fire Official.

Written procedures concerning liquid transfers shall be prepared and implemented by the owner. These procedures shouldinclude instructions covering methods to ensure the delivery if to the correct tank and the quantity to be delivered does notexceed the available tank capacity. Personnel should be given suitable training, and be monitored to ensure the proceduresare properly followed. Procedures should also specify inspection intervals at least every three months and testing intervalsat least annually for the high liquid level instrumentation. Any deficiency or malfunction must receive immediate correctiveaction.

Subsection 4.3.2. - Installation of Outside Aboveground Storage Tanks

The requirements of this Subsection are to ensure that tanks are installed in locations where they will not present a hazardto structures on adjacent properties and minimize the damage within the property itself in the event of a fire. Tank spacingis determined based on the maximum tank capacity or size as specified in Table 4.3.2.A1.



The location and spacing requirements will also vary depending on the characteristics of the liquid stored, type of tank,protection provided for the tank and protection provided for fire exposures.

The following liquid characteristics are considered in these requirements:stable liquids with operating pressures at or below 17 kPa;a. stable liquids with operating pressures above 17 kPa;b. boil-over of liquids; andc. unstable liquids.d.

A stable liquid is defined as one that will not undergo violent decomposition or reaction at or near normal temperatures andpressures and is chemically stable when subjected to shock or impact. For tanks containing stable liquids operating at apressure of 17 kPa (gauge) or lower, the minimum separation distances provided in Table 4.3.2.A1. may be used providedthey are equipped with emergency venting to maintain the pressure at or below 17 kPa (gauge). The use of a weakroof-to-shell seam in atmospheric storage tanks meets this requirement. The separation distances in Table 4.3.2.1A. canbe reduced by 50% if the tanks are equipped with fixed fire protection as specified in Article 4.3.2.5. Tanks containingunstable liquids operating at pressures under 17 kPa (gauge), may use the separation distances in Table 4.3.2.1A.multiplied by 3, with a minimum spatial separation of 15 metres. The reason for this increased separation is to compensatefor the higher potential for a tank containing an unstable liquid to fail violently. Where such tanks are equipped with fixedfire protection as specified in Article 4.3.2.5., the separation distances provided in Table 4.3.2.A1. may be used with aminimum spatial separation of 7.5 metres.

When storage tanks are not equipped with fixed fire protection and contain a stable liquid operating at a pressure above17 kPa (gauge), the separation distances given in Table 4.3.2.1.Table 4.3.2.A. are multiplied by 1.5, with a minimum spatialseparation of 7.5 metres. For the same type of tank equipped with fixed fire protection, the separation distances given inTable 4.3.2.1.Table 4.3.2.A. are multiplied by 0.75, with a minimum spatial separation of 7.5 metres. Where storage tanksare not equipped with fixed fire protection, and contain an unstable liquid operating at a pressure above 17 kPa (gauge),the separation distances given in Table 4.3.2.1.Table 4.3.2.A. are multiplied by 4.5, with a minimum spatial separation of 15metres. For the same type of tank equipped with fixed fire protection, the separation distances given in Table 4.3.2.1.Table4.3.2.A. are multiplied by 1.5, with a minimum spatial separation of 7.5 metres.

Sentence 4.3.2.1.(8) places additional requirements on the location of horizontal pressure tanks (commonly referred to asbullets). This sentence specifies that where end failure of horizontal storage tanks may endanger adjacent property, thetanks shall be placed with the longitudinal axis parallel to such property. When these pressure tanks are exposed to firethey tend to fail at the one end resulting in the tank being rocketed along its axis. This requirement is designed to minimizethe potential impact should the tank fail.

Greater spacing requirements are applied to tanks storing liquids having boil-over characteristics. Boil-over occurs withliquids that have a wide range of boiling points with volatile components, liquids that contain a highly viscous residue, andwater-in-oil emulsions near the boiling point of water. The distances in Table 4.3.2.1.Table 4.3.2.A. are to be used when thestorage tank is not equipped with fixed protection in accordance to Sentence 4.3.2.5.(2). Where such protection isprovided, the distance provided in Table 4.3.2.1.Table 4.3.2.A. is multiplied by 0.75.

In open pool burning, the radiant energy from the flames just above the vapours heats the liquid driving off more vapourswhich burn generating more radiant heat. This continues until the liquid is depleted.

When an open top tank containing a boil-over liquid is involved in a fire, the volatile components of the surface layer isevaporated. This layer becomes hotter and denser and sinks below the surface to be replaced by unburned oil. This cyclecontinues resulting in a deepening layer of very hot oil (93.30C or more) known as a "heat wave". When this hot layerreaches water or water/oil emulsion at the bottom of the tank, the water is superheated and subsequently flashes intosteam and boils almost explosively. This steam rises to the surface forming a froth, over-flowing the tank. This conditionresults in the expulsion of as much as half of the tank's contents spreading it as a burning mass over a wide area.

Note that a boil-over is an entirely different phenomenon from a slop-over or froth-over. Slop-over occurs when water issprayed onto the surface of hot burning oil resulting in minor frothing. Froth-over on the other hand does not involve a fire.When water is mixed into a tank of hot viscous oil, the flashing of the water into steam causes a portion of the contents tooverflow.

Protection of storage tanks against fires or explosions must conform to Article 4.3.2.5. or good engineering practice. Goodengineering practice includes assessing the necessary protection for tanks through the use of guidelines or standardspublished by National Fire Protection Association, Insurer's Advisory Organization (1989) Inc., Industrial Risks Insurers andFactory Mutual Engineering Corporation.



The minimum spacing requirements between any two adjacent aboveground storage tanks is 25% of the sum of theirdiameters. This is subject to a minimum of 1 metre separation for stable liquids and 2 metres for unstable liquids. Therequirements are to permit sufficient space for maintenance and suppression, to permit an orderly and safe arrangement forpipelines and to prevent the spread of fire from one tank to another. Due to the inherent hazards of liquefied petroleum gas(LPG) and compressed natural gas (CNG) a 6 metre minimum separation is required between cylinders of these gases andflammable and combustible liquid storage tanks. Further, storage of these cylinders within the same containment ordike compound of the storage tanks are prohibited. A minimum separation of 3 metres is required from the center line ofthe storage tank dike wall to a LPG cylinder and 7 metres to a LPG storage tank.

Access to above ground tanks for fire fighting purposes should take into consideration the tank diameters, the tank layoutand access routes for fire department vehicles and hose streams. The routes must be located so that fire departmentvehicles can approach to within 60 m of any storage tank. Arrangements where there are more than two rows of tanks withlarge diameters will make exposure protection a challenge for firefighters.

Due to the fire hazards associated with large storage tanks, there is a requirement that tanks exceeding 45 m in diameterbe provided with protection against fire or explosion as outlined in Sentence 4.3.2.5.(2).

Article 4.3.2.4. indicates that where fire fighting access is not provided, the option of providing protection is available onlyfor those tanks storing Class I or II liquids. If an owner of tanks that store Class IIIA liquids submits a complianceequivalency under 4.1.1.5. using options available for Class I or Class II liquids, the submission should be acceptable.Because Class IIIA liquid is less hazardous than Class I or Class II liquids, other options may also be acceptable, but thesemust be evaluated on their own merits.

See commentary for Article 4.2.7.7. for additional references to standards that may be used as good engineering practice.

Subsection 4.3.3. - Supports, Foundations and Anchorage for Aboveground Storage Tanks

Foundations used to support aboveground tanks used for the storage of flammable and combustible liquids, should bedesigned to minimize uneven tank settlement and minimize corrosion on the part of the tank in contact with the foundation.Tank supports or foundations for atmospheric storage tanks must be in conformance with Appendix B of API 650, "WeldedSteel Tanks for Oil Storage" and to Appendices C & D of API 620, "Design and Construction of Large, Welded,Low-pressure Storage Tanks."

Generally, horizontal tanks are supported well above their concrete foundation to provide a hydraulic head for the purposeof loading the liquid contents. These cylindrical shape tanks are usually supported by a steel saddle contoured to the shapeof the tank wall. The number and spacing of these saddles are subject to the allowable designed stress of the storagetank. The ability of these supports and saddles to withstand exposure to fire is very important. Failure of these saddles mayresult in the tank falling to the ground causing damage to the piping or the tank itself. As well, spilled contents allow the fireto spread resulting in exposure to other tanks or structures. For these reasons this Subsection requires that such supportsand saddles be protected by a 2-hour fire-resistance rating. This can be accomplished by encasing the steel members ina minimum of 11/2 inches of wire mesh reinforced concrete or gunite. Saddles which do not exceed 300 mm in height donot require fireproofing.

Tanks float when the level of their contents become less than the surrounding water level. Storage tanks located in areassubject to flooding must incorporate measures to prevent them from floating. Within diked areas the accumulation ofrainwater or melting snow can cause an empty tank to float. Procedures and equipment should be provided to drainaccumulated water. Water draining operations should be attended at all times. Upon completion, valves, etc. should beimmediately shut. When a tank floats it can break any connecting piping resulting in a spill.

Subsection 4.3.4. - Normal and Emergency Venting for Aboveground Storage Tanks

Filling and emptying a storage tank creates positive and negative pressures inside the tank. To fill a tank, air and vapourswithin the tank must be pushed out developing an internal tank pressure slightly above atmospheric pressure. For thisreason, tanks are designed to withstand an internal pressure of 2.3 kPa. To empty a tank, the reverse occurs requiring airto enter the tank, developing an internal tank pressure slightly below atmospheric pressure. For this reason, atmospherictanks are designed to withstand a vacuum of 0.689 kPa. Ambient pressure and temperature changes may also produce aslight pressure or vacuum within the tank. To accommodate this air movement, vents are provided to prevent the tank fromexploding or imploding. Normal vents are sized in accordance to Article 4.3.4.1. or API Standard 2000, "VentingAtmospheric and Low Pressure Storage Tanks," Table 1, but in no case should the vent size be less than 30 mm nominalinside diameter.

Storage tanks containing flammable liquids are equipped with venting devices that are normally kept closed forconservation and environmental purposes unless the tank is venting. For pressures up to 6.89 kPa, PV (pressure/vacuum)



valves are used to prevent over-pressure and under-pressure conditions. Since the vapour space in a flammable liquidstorage tank can be in the explosive range, a flame arrester is used in conjunction with the PV valve to prevent a flamefrom entering this space. Hard topped floating roof tanks may have open vents for venting the space between the floatingroof and fixed roof.

The discharge from vents must be arranged such that it prevents flame impingement on the tank should the dischargevapours be ignited. This is often accomplished using outlet pipes which discharge away from the tank. To preventaccumulation of water in the pipes from rain or condensation which can hinder the operation of the vents, open weep holesare provided. These weep holes must also be located such that the vapours are discharged away from the tank.

Flames contacting aboveground tanks quickly increase the rate of vapour production which in turn increases the internaltank pressure. This pressure must be relieved before the design tank pressure is exceeded. This can be accomplished byeither:

using a pressure relieving type of tank construction such as a weak roof-to-shell seam, a floating roof, lifter roof orother approved construction. The design of the weak roof-to-shell seam allows the roof to tear free from the shell asthe pressure builds and provides emergency venting while still containing the tank's liquid contents. Weakroof-to-shell construction comprises a maximum 4.76 mm thick roof steel attached to the tank shell by a single filletweld per API Standard 650. In floating roof tanks, there are large unrestricted vents around the tank shell for a hardtopped floater and for the open topped floater, the area above the roof is completely open to provide the necessaryemergency venting; or

a.

by the provision of a pressure relieving device.b.

Venting requirements for unstable liquids must take into account two-phase (i.e. liquid/gas or foam) flow through the vent.Therefore, the vent size needs to be sufficiently large to accommodate the increased resistance to flow.

Unstable liquids may also generate heat and vapour through chemical reaction. "Runaway" chemical reactions maygenerate considerable heat and vapour. Therefore, the sizing of the emergency vents should also take these characteristicsinto account.

Flames and radiant heat contacting the outer surface of the tank will result in heating of the contents and generation oflarge quantities of vapour when the contents boil. Table 3 in API Standard 2000 expresses a venting rate for this vapour incubic feet of free air per hour as opposed to the size of the tank opening. This is because all venting devices have aspecific discharge coefficient. The wetted surface area of the tank is used in this table is calculated as follows:

55% of the total surface area of a spherical or spheroid tank;a. 75% of the total surface area of a spherical cylindrical horizontal tank; andb. the first 9 metres of the shell above the base for a vertical plant.c.

These capacities are based on the assumption that the liquid has the characteristics of hexane.

Where the storage tanks are provided with protection from fire exposure by insulation that is noncombustible, resistsdislodgment by fire fighting activities and does not decompose at temperatures up to 540 oC, the normal and emergencyventing capacity can be reduced by a factor as outlined in Table 4 of API Standard 2000.

Subsection 4.3.5. - Vent Piping for Aboveground Storage Tanks

Although Article 4.3.5.1. references the entire Section 4.4, the intent is that the owner only needs to comply withSubsections 4.4.2., 4.4.3., 4.4.5., 4.4.7. and 4.4.8.

The location of vent pipe outlets from tanks is important because the vapour discharge may be in the explosive range.Should the discharge be exposed to a fire, it can act like a blow torch and therefore must be directed away from all tanks,buildings and structures.

For tanks storing flammable liquids located adjacent to buildings or public ways, the vapour from outlets should bereleased at a safe point outside the building at a minimum of 3.5 metres from the ground. For tanks storing combustibleliquids, the minimum distance is 1.52.0 metres. The vapours should be discharged upward or horizontally away fromclosely adjacent walls and at least 1.5 metres from any building opening. These requirements will assist in the dissipationof vapours that are almost always heavier than air.

The manifolding of vent pipes for tanks storing flammable liquids with vent pipes for tanks storing combustible liquidsshould be avoided unless means are provided to prevent flammable liquid vapours from entering combustible liquidtanks. When this mixing occurs, the combustible liquid storage tank should be reclassified to a flammable liquidstorage tank.



Subsection 4.3.6. - Openings Other than Vents in Aboveground Storage Tanks

API Standards 620 and 650 require that all piping connections used for tank filling, emptying or blending operations, andlocated on the tank shell below its maximum liquid level, must be provided with a shutoff valve. The valve must be locatedadjacent to the tank shell, constructed of steel and clearly indicate whether the valve is open or closed. If piping from a tankshould fail, staff or emergency response personnel should be able to quickly shut the valve to prevent draining of the tankcontents. It is recommended that all tank valves be kept in the fully closed position at all times except when filling, emptyingor a blending operation is taking place.

Opening of hatches for the purpose of measuring tank contents creates a risk of introducing air and forming an explosivemixture in and near the tank opening. Where hatches are difficult for staff to open and close, there may be temptation toleave the hatch open. Use of hatch counter-weights and strict operating procedures should minimize this risk.

Connections used for the filling and emptying of a tank must be located outdoors. The reason for this is because theseconnections are frequently broken thus releasing both vapour and liquid. It is preferred that this release occur outside of abuilding. An exception to this is permitted if a process located indoors is directly associated with a tank.

Subsection 4.3.7. - Secondary Containment for Aboveground Storage Tanks

The requirements of this Subsection are designed to ensure that in a situation where a flammable or combustible liquidfrom a tank is released, the spill will be contained such that it will not endanger other adjacent areas.

Secondary containment can be achieved by enclosing a tank or group of tanks within a dike compound or by directing aspill to an impounding basin. This secondary containment must have the capacity to hold the entire volume of the largesttank plus 10% of total volume of all other tanks. The extra 10% allowance is to account for accumulated water or snow thatis present or to allow for dike height settlement. Where an impounding basin is used, it must be located such that if the spillignites, a fire will not damage other tanks, buildings or adjoining property. Grading should be directed away from the tankand away from any adjoining property to assist fire suppression efforts to reduce heat and flame impingement on the tankand other tanks or property. Impounding basins and dike compounds must have water drainage facilities to maintain themfree of accumulated water and melting snow as often as necessary. Valves designed to be opened for draining purposesshould be closed at all times when not used for this operation.

In situations where it is difficult to provide remote impounding, tank diking may be used to contain liquid spills. A slope of atleast 1% directed away from the tank toward the dike base is recommended to keep a minor spill as far away from the tankas possible.

The minimum distance required between a storage tank shell and the interior toe of the dike wall is 1.5 metres.

Access for fire fighting must be provided on a tank farm. Where a diked area extends to the property line, a minimum spaceof 3 metres must be provided between the outer base of the dike to the property line. This gives firefighters access toprovide protection to buildings on adjoining property during a fire in the diked area. Firefighters also need access to valvesand tank roofs to control flammable liquid spills.

In situations where the secondary containment wall exceeds 1.8 metres, there is a strong likelihood for hazardousheavier-than-air vapours to accumulate at ground level in the contained area. Access to valves and tank roofs must beprovided at a level above the top of the dike through the use of elevated walkways, remote operated valves or other means.Note that testing for vapour accumulation should precede entry into such a contained area. Access roads must comply withBuilding Code Article 3.2.5.7.

Where drainage facilities are provided to drain water from the diked areas, access must be made available under fireconditions to prevent flammable or combustible liquids from entering any natural water course, public sewer, or drainagesystem. Combustible materials, compressed gas cylinders, empty or full drums, or barrels cannot be stored in the dikedareas as they constitute an additional fire hazard, reduce dike volume and restrict fire department access.

Recently, manufacturers have developed double walled tanks which provide secondary containment in the event of failureof the inner tank. Further, technology now permits the space between the walls to be continuously monitored so that failureof either wall can be detected and prompt action taken.

CAN/ULC-S643, "Shop Fabricated Steel Aboveground Utility Tanks for Flammable and Combustible Liquids", did not haveprovision for double wall tanks when Part 4 was introduced into the Fire Code in August, 1997, and was not referenced. Asprovision for double walled tanks was added to the Standard in February, 1998, it is appropriate to reference this standardin Subclause 4.3.7.4.(2)(a)(ii).



Subsection 4.3.8. - Installation of Underground Storage Tanks

The advantages of an underground installation are:tanks are protected from fire exposure;a. leaks are not likely to ignite to expose other tanks; andb. less tank temperature fluctuations, thus less venting and more liquid conservation.c.

However, the main disadvantage of an underground installation is that tank leakage is not easily detectable, and such leakscan threaten underground water courses or public sewers and adjacent buildings.

Underground tanks should never be built under building walls or foundations because the tanks can be damaged by thesestresses. This construction would also make it difficult to replace such tanks. Underground tanks must be installed aminimum of 1 metre from the foundation of any structure so that any settlement of the structure will not damage the tank.

The Chief Fire Official and Chief Building Official must be informed of the location of all underground tanks when aplanned expansion is contemplated and a building permit is requested.

Several underground tanks can be buried together side-by-side, as long as there is a minimum separation of 600 mmbetween the tanks. In this type of installation, backfilling with sand is recommended. A minimum of 600 mm of ground coveris required over underground storage tanks.

A minimum distance of 1.5 metres between underground tanks and a property line is required to minimize the possibility ofdamage to the tank or to its protective coating and sand envelope by construction activities on the adjacent property.

Underground tanks located in an area subject to vehicular traffic must have a minimum of 1 metre of earth coverage or 150mm of reinforced or 200 mm of non-reinforced concrete which extends 300 mm beyond the tank perimeter to preventdamage to the tank if a loaded truck is driven over the spot where the tank is buried.

The backfill material of all underground tanks should not contain any rocks, boulders, bricks, blocks, broken concrete orasphalt or other debris as these materials could damage the tank exterior. Only clean sand should be used.

Fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks are required to be backfilled with pea gravel as per the tank manufacturer'sinstallation instructions.

Since empty underground storage tanks will float if subjected to a water table or flood, there are requirements to anchor orprovide overburden to prevent them from lifting out of the ground. Tank movement can break any connecting pipes or thetank. Any proposed means of anchorage or overburden must be sufficient to resist the buoyant forces on the tanks whenthey are empty and completely submerged.

Means which have been employed successfully to protect tanks against uplift are:anchor straps to concrete supports beneath the tanks;a. ground anchors; andb. reinforced concrete slabs or planks on top of the tanks.c.

Anchor or ground straps, where provided, must be installed and tightened in such a manner to not damage the tank or itsprotective coating.

Subsection 4.3.9. - Corrosion Protection of Underground Steel Storage Tanks

Underground steel storage tanks are often protected from corrosion by a suitable coating. More recently, tanks have beenconstructed of fiberglass reinforced plastic (FRP). Tanks are fabricated to Underwriters of Canada (ULC) standards.

Unless steel tanks are provided with external corrosion protection, they are subject to corrosion and failure. Failure ratesvary depending upon several factors such as location of the water table, composition of the backfill and natural soilconditions in the area. For these reasons, the corrosion of steel underground tanks and associated piping has become amajor environmental concern throughout North America. CAN/ULC Standard S603.1 requires tanks to incorporate cathodicprotection.

Since FRP tanks are resistant to the effects of external corrosion, only the steel components that may be connected to aFRP tank need corrosion protection.

Subsection 4.3.10. - Vents for Underground Storage Tanks



The requirements for vents from underground storage tanks differ slightly from that for aboveground storage tanks. Thereason for these differences may be attributed to the following: buried tanks never have a cone roof or a floating roof, theyare generally of the horizontal cylindrical type, they cannot be seen when being filled or emptied, and the contents are lessaffected by weather conditions.

To prevent underground tanks from failing due to pressure changes from filling and emptying operations, a vent is providedto permit the flow of air in and out of the tank. The size of the vent line must be large enough to accommodate themaximum filling or emptying rates without exceeding the allowable stress for the underground tank. It is important that thisvent line and its outlet be protected from possible blockage from weather (i.e. snow, rain, ice), dirt, insects and bird nests.Vent piping outlets must be outdoors and located and oriented in a direction that vapour discharge will not accumulate ortravel to an unsafe location, enter building openings or be trapped by building eaves and must be at least 1.5 metres frombuilding openings (doors, windows, vents, etc.). Vent outlets for underground storage tanks used to store flammableliquids are required to be at least 3.5 metres above the ground and at least 7.5 metres from any dispenser. Vent outlets forunderground storage tanks used to store Class II or IIIA liquids are required to be at least 2.0 metres above the ground.The vent outlet must also be above the top of the fill pipe so that if the tank is over filled, liquid will not be discharged fromthe vent line. The vent line must be properly supported and protected from mechanical damage such as vehicle impact.Frequently, vent outlets are equipped with return bends, to prevent snow and rain from entering, and with a coarse screento keep out animals and birds. Screens should be regularly inspected and, if obstructed, should be immediately replaced.

A vent line must be connected to an underground tank at the top of the vapour space. It must not extend down into the tankmore than 25 mm, unless equipped with a vent alarm, to prevent the vent line from being sealed off by a high liquid level.Vent lines must be sloped towards the underground tank without any traps to prevent vapour condensate from blocking thevent line. Where necessary, protection should be provided against mechanical damage.

It is not permitted to manifold the vent line of an underground tank containing a flammable liquid with the vent line from atank containing a combustible liquid. This is because vapours or condensate from the flammable liquid may enter thecombustible liquid tank and create explosive conditions and contaminate the product.

Subsection 4.3.11. - Openings Other than Vents in Underground Storage Tanks

To prevent the escape of vapours from an underground storage tank from other than the vent line, all open-ended pipesfrom such tanks should be capped. Openings for liquid level gauging, the ends of fill and withdrawal lines should all beequipped with a vapour tight cap or cover. This cap or cover should be kept securely in place except when the pipes are inuse.

Filling outlets located remote from the tank should be lower in elevation than any of the withdrawal outlets. This allowsover-filling to be detected immediately if the withdrawal outlet(s) are not visible from the location of the filling outlet.

During the filling process, the flow of some liquids through a pipe can generate a static charge in the liquid, particularly athigh velocities and if the flow involves two or more phases. The manner in which this liquid is added to the tank can causeturbulence and splashing, particularly if the fill pipe terminates well above the liquid surface. The free-falling liquid breaks upinto fine droplets that become a charged mist. Where possible, it is considered good practice to extend the fill pipe to within15 cm of the bottom of the tank to avoid splash filling.

Filling and emptying connections should be located outside a building a minimum of 1.5 metres from any building openingand in a location free of ignition sources. This requirement was created because experience has shown that theseconnections are a potential source of spills and release of vapours. The only exception for a connection inside a building isfor a pipe used to convey a waste liquid to an underground tank. This line must have a liquid trap to prevent tank vapoursfrom escaping into the building.

Subsection 4.3.12. - Installation of Storage Tanks Inside Buildings

The term "tanks" used in Part 4 refers only to storage tanks and not to portable tanks or process vessels. If the storage ofliquids in outdoor aboveground or underground tanks is not practical due to government regulations, temperatureconsiderations or production requirements, tanks may be permitted indoors when installed in accordance with theprovisions of this Subsection. Production considerations that may necessitate indoor storage may include high viscosity,purity, sterility, hygroscopicity, sensitivity to temperature changes and the need to store temporarily pending completion ofsample analysis.

The amount of indoor tank storage of flammable and combustible liquids is limited to the amounts shown in Table4.3.12.A. It should be noted that this Table does not apply to indoor storage tanks used to store ethyl alcohol. Storage ofethyl alcohol is covered in Section 4.9. Tank storage is prohibited below grade such as in basements or cellars wherenatural ventilation will not be as effective to dispel the accumulation of heavier-than-air vapours. Storage on floors above



the first floor is only allowed in buildings where automatic sprinkler protection is installed in conformance with NFPA 13,"Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems". Alternatively, the area may be equipped with an approved equivalentfixed fire extinguishing system. Where there is tank storage of both flammable and combustible liquids within the sameroom, the total quantity of the two liquids permitted can be calculated using a formula similar to those explained inSubsections 4.2.4. and 4.2.7.

The maximum static head imposed on a storage tank located inside a building is limited to 70 kPa (gauge) when the tankis filled to its maximum capacity. This will prohibit very high tanks or long vent lines. The total pressure on the bottom of atank must include the static head that would be created if the tank were overfilled, thus, filling the vent line with liquid.

Normal and emergency venting of indoor tanks must meet the requirements of Subsections 4.3.4. and 4.3.5. or goodengineering practice. However, emergency venting through the use of weak roof-to-shell seams is not permitted inside abuilding. All venting from indoor tanks must terminate outside the building at least 1.5 metres from any building openingand be sized to prevent the tank from exceeding its design stress limits.

Article 4.3.12.2. is intended to apply to tanks having a capacity less than 230 L, including integral tanks, used for storingClass I liquids as fuel supplies for stationary engines. Tanks greater than 230 L and located inside a building shouldconform to Subsection 4.3.12. Class II fuels used for emergency generators are regulated under the Energy Act and aretherefore exempted from Part 4. Class II fuels used in other stationary engines are not regulated under the Energy Act andare therefore regulated by Part 4.

The intent of Clause 4.3.12.7.(1)(a) is to ensure that the tank room has provisions to contain a spill equal to at least 100%of the volume of the largest tank.

For the design of normal and emergency venting of indoor storage tanks, Sentence 4.3.12.8.(1) refers to Subsection4.3.4., which in turn refers to API 2000, "Venting Atmospheric and Low-Pressure Storage Tanks". API 2000, however, isintended for outdoor tanks rather than indoor tanks. The venting rate reduction factors for water spray on the tank surface,or drainage rates for spilled liquids, should not be used to calculate the emergency venting rate of a storage tank inside abuilding. The effects of water spray cooling, and room drainage on the calculated emergency venting rate must be workedout according to good engineering practice. Increased emergency venting capacity may be required because the heattransfer characteristics to a tank located inside a building are potentially greater than outside.

For the same reasons described in Subsection 4.3.11., it is considered excellent practice to extend the fill pipe to within 15cm of the bottom of the tank to avoid free falling liquid and splash filling. It is a requirement of this Subsection that all indoortanks, piping, pumps and discharge equipment be bonded and grounded to prevent a static spark discharge.

Where an indoor storage tank is suspended, rather than supported on a foundation, the supports shall be designed andinstalled in conformance with good engineering practice. Good engineering practice should meet the intent of Subsection4.3.3. as far as possible. Such factors as the provision of adequate fire resistance for supports, the need to preventover-stressing the tank shell or its supports, and resistance to earthquake forces in areas subject to such forces, should betaken into consideration.

Subsection 4.3.13. - Rooms for Storage Tanks

The intent of Clause 4.3.13.1.(1)(b) is to ensure that the tank room has provisions to contain a spill equal to at least 100%of the volume of the largest tank.

Article 4.3.13.3. now sets the minimum standard to which explosion venting must be provided when required by the FireCode.

Storage tanks inside buildings are only permitted in areas at or above grade level that have adequate drainage and areseparated from other parts of the building by a fire-resistance rating of at least two hours. The intent here is to separatethe tank storage area from the process area so that neither presents a fire exposure to the other and to prevent a spillflowing from the storage area into the process area. This separation must be constructed of liquid tight walls, floors, curbs,and sills. Ramps shall be provided at floor level at least 100 mm high and the room size must be capable of containing100% of the volume of the largest tank in the room. This approach is analogous to the diked area around an outdoor tank.Another approach for liquid spills is to provide a drainage system sized to handle the largest probable spill and directed to asafe location, such as a catch tank or basin. Regardless of the approach used, the fire safety and environmental impact ofan indoor spill should receive greater design consideration than for an outdoor spill.

Rooms used to house tanks of flammable and combustible liquids require ventilation meeting the requirements ofSubsection 4.1.7.

Minimum clearances of at least 550 mm must be provided between all indoor tanks and the walls of the room to allow



access for fire fighting and maintenance. A posting must be provided in the area outside of the room, indicating the capacityof each tank and whether the liquid being stored is flammable or combustible. This will assist firefighters and to warnpersonnel of the dangers of the area. The building's fire safety plan provided to the Chief Fire Official must include a listof all such indoor tanks, their capacity and content.

If the dispensing of Class IA or IB liquids is carried out in this storage tank room, then explosion venting in conformancewith Subsection 4.2.9. is required due to the potential for an explosive vapour/air mixture to be present during the operation.This requirement does not apply to dispensing ethyl alcohol.

Standpipe and hose systems are required throughout the floor area where storage tanks of flammable and combustibleliquids are located. These small diameter hose stations are not intended for fighting a flammable or combustible liquidfire. Rather, they are intended to be used for prompt suppression of a small fire in ordinary combustibles. Flammable orcombustible liquid fires should be fought using fog nozzles or foam rather than solid water streams, as water streamsmay spread the liquid and worsen the situation.

Bonding and grounding is required for the indoor tanks, associated piping and dispensing equipment. This is to prevent theaccumulation of static electricity which could become a source of ignition.

Subsection 4.3.14. - Openings Other than Vents for Storage Tanks in Buildings

A shutoff valve must be provided immediately adjacent to the tank shell for any piping connection to a storage tank insidea building. The valve should clearly indicate whether it is in the open or closed position. Since most leaks occur in thetank's piping systems, these valves minimize the chance of an uncontrollable spills. All tank valves should be kept in thefully closed position at all times except during filling, emptying or blending operations.

Opening of hatches for the purpose of measuring liquid levels or sampling contents creates a risk of introducing air andforming an explosive mixture in and near the tank hatch. Where hatches are difficult for staff to open and close, there maybe temptation to leave the hatch open. Use of hatch counter-weights and strict operating procedures should minimize thisrisk. Alternate methods of measuring liquid levels should be investigated for tanks located within buildings.

Filling an indoor tank with a flammable liquid must be done in such a manner that the liquid does not free fall inside thetank. For the same reasons described in Subsection 4.3.11., it is considered good practice to extend the fill pipe to within15 cm of the bottom of the tank or be designed and installed in a way to minimize the generation of static electricity.

Tanks storing flammable and combustible liquids inside buildings shall be equipped with a device or other means shallbe provided to prevent overflow of tank contents in the building as per Subsection 4.3.1. Suitable devices include limitswitches, float valves, a preset meter on the fill line, a valve actuated by the weight of the tank contents, a low head pumpincapable of producing an overflow or a liquid tight overflow pipe at least one pipe diameter larger than the fill pipe,discharging by gravity back to the outside source of the liquid or to an approved location of adequate capacity.

Subsection 4.3.15. - Leakage Testing of Storage Tanks

Before being placed in service or whenever a leak is suspected, all tanks must be tested in accordance with the applicableprovisions of the code under which they were built. Refer to the next Subsection 4.3.16. concerning leakage detection. Alabel is affixed to the tank shell indicating that the tank was made and tested to an applicable code. Where such a label isnot provided, that tank must be tested before going into service, in accordance with good engineering principles. Where it issuspected that an existing aboveground storage tank is leaking at the bottom, and the bottom cannot be visuallyinspected, the tank shall be taken out of service and non-volumetric testing conducted. Such testing may includeacoustical, tracer and external product detection methods. The location of leaks in the bottom of a tank can also bedetermined by using a vacuum box and soap suds. It is suggested that all testing be conducted by individuals or companiesexperienced in these test procedures.

Aboveground tanks may be hydrostatically tested by filling the tank with water. Pneumatic leakage tests are not performedon such tanks due to the risks inherent in a tank rupture involving compressed gases. However, empty undergroundstorage tanks including their fill and vent lines, may be pneumatically tested at a pressure of not less than 35 kPa (gauge)and not more than 70 kPa (gauge). The source of pressure is then removed and the tank must maintain pressure for twohours. If the pressure drops within the two hour period, and the pressure drop cannot be reconciled, the storage tank has aleak. Test pressures must be measured by an instrument calibrated in 1 kPa increments.

Any storage tank found to leak shall be replaced and re-tested in the case of an underground tank and repaired orreplaced and re-tested for any aboveground storage tank before being put back into service.

The testing of underground storage tanks cannot be carried out until the fill and vent lines have been installed and all tankopenings sealed. Testing must include the hydrostatic head pressure that would be developed if the tank were accidentally



overfilled. However, under no circumstances should the pressure exceed the design pressure of the tank.

Other piping associated with storage tanks must be pressure tested in accordance with Subsection 4.4.6.

Where an underground storage tank is tested using a test liquid, the tank shall be considered to be leaking when, aftercompensating for any volume differences due to temperature variations and shell distortion, the test indicates a loss ofliquid.

Subsection 4.3.16. - Leakage Detection of Storage Tanks

This Code requires measurement to be taken of the liquid level in all storage tanks at least once per week to detectleakage. Because Clause 4.1.1.2.(2)(d) exempts locations to which the Gasoline Handling Act and the Energy Act apply,this requirement does not apply to fuel dispensing stations regulated under the Gasoline Handling Act.. Forunderground tanks, a measurement is also required to be taken of the water at the bottom of the tank. A comparison ofthese liquid levels with meter readings of liquid flow shall be performed. Any discrepancies between the measured tankliquid levels and meter flow readings that cannot be reconciled is a clear indication that the tank has a leak. When there issignificant liquid movement in the tank on a daily basis, the general practice is to take level readings on a daily basis. Arecord for each storage tank showing the liquid level measurements must be retained for examination by the Chief FireOfficial.

Where underground tanks are used, there is an additional requirement to measure the water level in the bottom of the tank.If the tank develops a leak, the hydrostatic pressure of the outside groundwater could force water to enter the tank. If thewater level in the tank bottom exceeds 50 mm, then immediate action must be taken.

This Subsection requires written records of these liquid levels to be maintained for a period of at least two years.

Any tank found to be leaking requires immediate remedial action and reporting to the Chief Fire Official within 24 hours.



























Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4--PIPING AND TRANSFER

SECTION 4.4 PIPING AND TRANSFER SYSTEMS


This Section applies to piping systems consisting of pipe, tubing, flanges, bolting, gaskets, valves, fittings, flexibleconnectors, pressure fit devices such as expansion joints and other components such as pumps, strainers, filters, meters,etc. Any piping system is susceptible to leakage or spill of liquids. Because of the additional fire hazard in piping systemshandling flammable and combustible liquids, these systems must be able to withstand the intense heat generated by firefor reasonable periods of time while emergency shutdown procedures are implemented and fire fighting measures begin.The failure of pipes, valves, fittings and gaskets during the fire exposure, can turn a small fire into a large catastrophic firecondition.

This Section does not apply to:Tubing or casing on any gas or oil well and associated piping;a. Piping used in motor vehicles, aircraft, boats or portable and stationary engines;b. Piping systems in fuel dispensing stations and distilleries;c. Piping systems at piers and wharves; andd. Piping which falls within the scope of the Ontario "Boiler and Pressure Vessels Code".e.

Subsection 4.4.2. - Materials for Piping, Valves and Fittings

All elements of a piping system handling flammable and combustible liquids must be capable of withstanding themaximum design pressures and temperatures of the system. The various components of a piping system must be able towithstand internal stress, thermal shock or rupture by mechanical failure and must have a melting point above 540oC. Thusthe use of low melting materials such as plastic, brass, bronze, copper or aluminum are prohibited in abovegroundinstallations. The use of cast iron is also prohibited because of its brittleness. Under fire conditions the cast iron valve, fittingor flange could fail from the stresses caused by thermal expansion of the pipe system or from the thermal shock of beingsuddenly cooled by a fire hose stream. Steel is the only practical material that is capable of withstanding the stresses andtemperatures created by the fire for a period of time.

Prescriptive requirements are given for steel pipe operating at pressures up to a maximum of 875 kPa. Where thepressures exceed 875 kPa, the pipe and fittings shall be carbon steel or other specified material with welded or flangedjoints as per ANSI/ASME B31.3, "Chemical Plant and Petroleum Refinery Piping".

Where there are problems concerning corrosion, contamination, sanitation or product purity, other materials may be usedsubject to approval by the Chief Fire Official. These components may be approved where they are protected by thermalinsulation with a steel shield for fire hose stream protection.

Underground piping that would not be subject to fire exposure can be made from materials that conform to ULC standards.

As the flammable or combustible liquids represent a sizable fire load, to minimize these contents from contributing to aspill, this Subsection requires all tank valves to be of steel construction. The general practice is to use a valve with a risingstem so that it clearly indicates whether it is open or closed. These valves should be normally closed except during tankfilling, emptying or blending operation.

In Clause 4.4.2.1.(2)(a), cast iron is a material that is intended to be prohibited due to its susceptibility to failure by internalstress or rupture, either mechanical or thermal. In Clause (2)(b), "low melting point" is intended to exclude materials suchas aluminum, copper and brass. Materials with a melting point below 1100°C should be considered low melting.

Commentary on Part 4--PIPING AND TRANSFER





















Subsection 4.4.3. - Corrosion Protection of Piping Systems

Wherever a piping system is exposed to a corrosive environment, it must be protected against corrosion to preventpremature failure.

Underground steel piping, valves and fittings are subjected to considerable corrosion due to direct contact with the backfillmaterial. This material can be moist for lengthy periods as a result of rainfall or from melting snow. This code prescribescorrosion protection in conformance with CAN/ULC-S603.1 or by good engineering practice such as described in PACEReport No. 87-1 published by the Canadian Petroleum Products Institute.

Subsection 4.4.4. - Identification of Piping Systems

To assist firefighters arriving at the scene of a fire involving a piping system, identification of piping handling flammable andcombustible liquids is required. This can be accomplished by appropriate lettering, tags, strips or banding but in no eventshould the system be painted red. The colour red to a firefighter would signify fire protection equipment such as sprinkler,inert gas or foam extinguishing systems.

Plans showing the piping systems for flammable and combustible liquids including storage tanks and associatedpumping facilities must be available to the fire department upon request. Copies of these piping plans are to be kept at twoseparate locations so that should the set of plans at the plant be lost or destroyed for whatever reason, another set isavailable from another location.

At transfer points in piping systems handling flammable or combustible liquids, the piping must be clearly identified sothat employees are less likely to direct the liquid flow to a wrong destination with possible disastrous consequences. Thecode prescribes two standards, either of which can be used for such identification.

Subsection 4.4.5. - Joints in Piping Systems

All piping joints used to connect the various components of the system must be liquid tight and capable of handling thedesign pressure of the piping system without leaking. Piping joints should be either screwed, flanged or welded.

Welded piping provides excellent integrity under fire exposure conditions but has the disadvantage of requiring hot work toboth dismantle and reconnect the piping. Pumps or other equipment that require periodic removal for maintenance, shouldbe provided with flanged joints to facilitate this activity. Since both cutting and welding creates an ignition source, thisshould be avoided in piping systems handling flammable and/or combustible liquids.

The use of victaulic joints and improper gaskets on flammable or combustible liquid piping will readily fail on fireexposure and should not be used.

The bolts used in a flanged joint must be steel and not a low melting material like brass or bronze to maintain mechanicalstrength under fire exposure. Bolts must conform to ASTM Standard A193/A 193M. The proper installation of bolts or studsis important to attain the required tightness in the flanged joint. The bolt or stud must be long enough and a stud sopositioned that a nut can be fully engaged with 1 1/2 threads protruding beyond the nut face. The last thread on the bolt orstud is chamfered to facilitate thread engagement and therefore does not provide the full thread strength.

Subsection 4.4.6. - Leakage Testing of Piping Systems

Testing of all new, altered, repaired or suspected leaking piping systems must be done before the system is placed inservice. Tests are not an absolute guarantee that the system is leak free or that it will remain that way. It is a method tohelp ensure that the system will perform as desired under normal circumstances and in predictable emergency situations.

Exposed piping systems which are in service should receive routine periodic visual inspection, looking for any signs ofleaks, as required in Article 4.4.11.5. Leak testing may be performed by pneumatic testing to 350 kPa or 150 % of themaximum system design pressure, whichever is greatest, except pressures above 700 kPa are not permitted unless thesystem has been designed for this pressure. A piping system shall be considered to be leaking when the test shows apressure drop within a 2 hour period after steady temperature conditions have been reached and the pressure source hasbeen removed. The piping, including all joints, should be coated with soap solution to facilitate finding any leaks.

Class I liquids should not be used for hydraulic testing unless the piping system normally contains only a Class I liquid. Thetest pressure is not to exceed the maximum operating pressure of the piping system.

Where pneumatic testing is to be performed on piping, it must be completely purged of liquid and vapours, unless an inertgas is used for the test. The use of air without purging the system could result in an explosive vapour/air mixture in the pipe.If during the test, a leak is detected, the piping system shall be either repaired or replaced and re-tested until tested



satisfactorily.

A record of all piping system pressure tests must be retained for examination by the Chief Fire Official.

Although Article 4.4.6.3. references Subsection 4.1.6. for the removal of escaped liquids, Article 4.1.6.3. is the specificreference to ensure clean up of any escaped liquid.

Subsection 4.4.7. - Location and Arrangement of Piping

The location of piping carrying flammable or combustible liquids is important since these liquids, if spilled or leaked,would constitute a severe fire hazard. This is particularly true where such piping is provided inside a building. The locationof piping should be such that a spill or leak from the piping would not endanger a building or its occupants. ThisSubsection has requirements pertaining to piping systems on building roofs or located on outside building walls.

All aboveground piping should be properly supported according to good engineering practices to prevent damage fromvibration and stress. Where vehicular traffic can be present, piping systems must be provided with approved protectiveguarding devices. Where there is overhead piping crossing private roads, railway sidings or highways, a warning sign isrequired indicating the presence of this hazardous piping and showing the clearances that are provided.

Flammable and combustible liquid piping inside buildings should be above grade so that any leaks are readily apparentand repairs can be easily undertaken. If overhead, the piping should be properly supported close to the ceiling, beams orwall and at least 1.8 metres above the floor to provide sufficient clearance from mechanical damage. Greater clearancesare required in areas where fork lift trucks or other mechanical equipment are present. For pipes having a nominal diameterof 50 mm or less, it is a good practice to space hangers not more than 3.5 metres apart.

Underground piping located under roadways or railroad tracks is subject to vibration and ground settlement caused by themovement of vehicles or rail cars and locomotives. Vibration and ground settlement can cause underground piping to failand leak with the possibility that the leak may not be detected for a period of time. In order to prevent considerableenvironmental damage and possible fire, the underground piping must be protected. The code requires conformance withregulations of Transport Canada for underground piping under or adjacent to railroad tracks.

Protection against vibration or settlement should be provided before underground piping is installed under any building orstructural foundation. The code contains prescriptive requirements for the support and backfill of underground piping. Pipingfor flammable and combustible liquids should be aboveground when entering a building. This piping should be providedwith an inside and outside shut-off valve, preferably through a pipe sleeve so that undue stress on the piping is not causedby frost movement or vibration.

Service tunnels that are used for pedestrian traffic should not contain piping for flammable or combustible liquids. Thepossibility of a leak producing a flammable vapour may create health or life safety hazards.

Indoor flammable or combustible liquid piping should not be installed under a combustible floor due to fire spread andfire fighting difficulties.

Indoor trenches containing piping for flammable and combustible liquids must have a trapped drainage systemconforming to Subsection 4.1.6. The trench would contain any leaks in the area because it is lower. The heavier-than-airvapours that are released would stay in the trench and be carried to other building areas. Positive ventilation to theoutdoors must be provided if the trench piping contains Class I liquids. Alternatively, the ventilation must be designed toprevent the development of an explosive vapour/air mixture.

The intent of Article 4.4.7.8. is to ensure that the trenches are not covered with combustible material that could becontaminated with flammable liquid and susceptible to easy ignition and/or fire spread. The concealed pipe could developa leak that could go unnoticed for some period of time. Therefore, piping in trenches must not be covered with combustiblematerial.

Provision for thermal expansion and contraction caused by variations in liquid temperature, air temperature fluctuations orby direct sunlight exposure must be incorporated into the design of aboveground flammable and combustible liquidpiping systems. The required flexibility in the aboveground piping may be achieved by a variety of methods including theuse of expansion loops, changes in piping direction, telescoping expansion connectors, expansion bellows or flexible hoseconnectors.

Subsection 4.4.8. - Valves in Piping Systems

Subsection 4.4.2. indicates the importance of the materials used for valves in the piping systems. These valves must beable to withstand the maximum operating pressures and temperatures of the piping system such as the pressure that could



be developed if a pump in the system is run against a closed valve. In order to isolate tanks or portions of the system in firesituations, steel shut-off valves must be placed in strategic locations in the piping system. Steel shut-off valves are requiredin the following locations:

indoor and outdoor aboveground tanks, immediately adjacent to the tank shell on all pipe connections below themaximum tank liquid. A shut-off valve is important for spill control and maintenance activities due to the largequantity of liquid that could flow by gravity should a line break or leak;

a.

on supply piping entering a building or structure. Valves are to be located outside the building, be readilyaccessible and clearly identified;

b.

on branch lines from a main supply line. Valves should be readily accessible and clearly identified;c. on the supply piping to dispensing facilities; andd. where required to isolate one part of a piping system from another.e.

Where quality and product purity are required, stainless steel and monel valves are permitted. An example of such anactivity would be the handling of distilled beverage alcohol (ethyl alcohol) in Section 4.9.

All air operated valves (control valves, diaphragm valves), pumps or equipment must be designed and maintained in orderto prevent the leakage of flammable or combustible liquid into the air line. Any leakage of flammable or combustibleliquid into the air line could create a serious fire hazard.

Shut-off or isolating valves should clearly indicate whether the valves are closed or open or somewhere in-between. Onevalve that is frequently utilized is the outside stem and yoke valve which, when fully closed, very little of the valve stem canbe seen above the operating wheel. The valve stem protrudes several centimetres above the valve operating wheel whenthe valve is in the fully open position. Ball valves and plug valves clearly show whether the valve is open or closed by theposition of the valve operating handle. If the handle is parallel with the piping, the valve is fully open. The valve is fullyclosed when the operating handle is at a right angle to the piping.

Cast iron meters would quickly fail due to the brittle nature of cast iron. This Subsection requires such meters to beprovided with steel valves on either side of the meter. In order to minimize the amount of fuel release due to meter failure ina fire, these valves should be placed close to the meter to provide isolation. The use of isolation valves permits the removalof the meters from the piping system for maintenance and recalibration with a minimum of liquid spill.

In order to assist the firefighter in an emergency, valves in flammable and combustible liquid piping systems must beclearly identified or labeled to distinguish them from valves in other nearby piping systems.

An amendment in Article 4.4.8.1. provides a means by which existing valves that are not in conformance with one of thereferenced standards but are still functional and structurally sound and have many more years of useful life may continue tobe used. The concern about valves relate to valves made from materials that are subject to failure from mechanical and/orthermal shocks or high temperature, such as cast iron or low melting or combustible material. Thus existing valves that arenot leaking and not made of cast iron or low melting materials, such as aluminum or plastic, may continue to be used untilthey are replaced or begin to leak. This will not force owners to undergo unnecessary expense to determine if all of theirvalves comply with the standards, while still requiring replacement of the valves that are a real concern.

Subsection 4.4.9. - Heating of Piping Systems

There are processes where the flammable or combustible liquids are heated in order for the reaction or process to takeplace. Such processes must be designed, installed and maintained to prevent a hot pipe surface from becoming a source ofignition and to prevent the overheating of the liquids. Heating of a combustible liquid to or above its flash point, changesits classification to a flammable liquid. This significantly increases the fire hazard if the liquid is leaked or spilled. Whensuch liquids are heated above their autoignition temperature, any leak may result in immediate ignition on contact with air.

A heat exchange system with steam or other liquids (e.g. hot water, heat transfer agent) may be used to heat theflammable and combustible liquids in a piping system. In order to prevent flammable and combustible liquids fromexceeding the design operating temperatures and pressures of the piping system, heat exchange systems must possessgood controls on the heating medium.

Hot pipes are a potential ignition source for flammable vapours. Hot piping is required to be enclosed in insulation as perArticle 6.2.9.4. of the Building Code. This insulation will protect against ignition, conserve energy and protect workersafety.

Piping may be heated by passing an alternating current through the pipe. These thermal electrical conduction heatingsystems must be installed and tested as complete units in accordance with the Electrical Safety Code (e.g. Rule 62-404)and the following:



unheated sections of the piping are to be electrically isolated from the heated sections by means of nonconductivefittings;

a.

thermostatic controls, high temperature controls and fuses must be installed in accordance with good engineeringpractices and have the lowest practical electrical rating to ensure satisfactory operation;

b.

all parts of the piping and fittings which are a part of the conduction heating system must be enclosed by insulationto prevent accidental grounding which could produce a spark; and

c.

all switches, transformers, contactors and any other spark producing equipment is located in an area not subject toflammable vapours. A spark in the presence of flammable vapours would result in a fire or explosion.

d.

Open flames are not allowed as a heat source for heating piping since the flame is an excellent ignition source if there areflammable vapours present.

Subsection 4.4.10. - Methods of Transfer in Piping Systems

The three methods that are acceptable for the transfer of flammable and combustible liquids are pumping, hydraulicpressuring and inert gas pressuring.

The use of pumps is the most common method. Pumps are subject to wear and may leak. Therefore, their placement isimportant. Pumps located outdoors must be located a minimum of 1.5 metres from building openings so that vapours areless likely to enter the building and 3 metres from property lines to provide fire fighting access. Indoor pumps must beplaced in a fire separated area in conformance with Subsection 4.2.9.

Clearly identified switches at or near a pump and a switch at a remote location are required to ensure that power can beshut off in the event of an emergency. The duplicate control switch at a remote accessible location is required in case a fireor a spill of flammable liquid at the pump makes it unsafe to shut off the flow of liquid at the pump location. The switchesat the pump and at the remote location should be readily accessible and not blocked by the storage of other materials.Minimizing the amount of leakage and potential fire loss requires quick access to the shut-off switch of the pump should thepump develop a leak. The remote switch location could be situated in a motor control room or electrical switchgear room aslong as the switches and breakers are clearly labeled.

Positive displacement pumps, pumps that can develop high discharge pressures, can be used in piping systems. In order toprotect the piping system from excessive pressure it is good practice to install a pressure relief valve. The valve can beconnected to the discharge piping of the positive displacement pump and discharge back into the suction side of the pump.

Hydraulic pressure transfer of flammable or combustible liquids that are miscible in water is not permitted. Pressurevessels used for hydraulic transfer systems must be constructed, installed and tested in accordance with Subsection 4.3.1.In order to prevent the failure of the piping or tanks, the operating pressure of the hydraulic transfer system must notexceed the design pressure of the piping system or tanks connected to it. The water pressure is only to be on theflammable or combustible liquid piping system when product transfer is taking place.

During the operation of a hydraulic transferring system, the water pressure must not be allowed to fluctuate widely sincethis will cause unnecessary stress on the flammable or combustible liquid piping system. This can be accomplished bycontrolling the operating pressure by a constant-level float valve or by a pressure regulating valve on the water piping. Toprevent contamination of the water supply, a check valve must be installed and maintained on the water piping to prevent abackflow of flammable or combustible liquids into the water lines.

Another method of flammable and combustible liquid transfer is by applying pressure to the liquid with an inert gas suchas nitrogen or carbon dioxide. A gas regulator should control the operating pressure of the inert gas transfer system. Itshould be set at the minimum pressure needed to force the liquid through the piping system at the desired flow rate. Thepressure must not exceed the design pressure of the connected piping system or tanks to prevent the failure of the system.Inert gas transfer systems must be constructed, installed and tested in accordance with Subsection 4.3.1. Downstream ofthe inert gas regulator, a pressure relief valve is installed at a pressure slightly higher than required to transfer theflammable and combustible liquid. In the event of a fire or a leak, provision must be made to safely release the linepressure in the piping system to stop the flow. This must occur automatically on fire detection. These valves are to beclearly identified or labeled and readily accessible.

Never use compressed air to transfer flammable or combustible liquids due to the fire and explosion risks this creates.

Subsection 4.4.11. - Operating Procedures for Piping Systems

Instruction and training in normal day-to-day operations in the transfer, use and handling of flammable and combustibleliquids must be given to all personnel involved in these activities. Emergency procedures in the event of fire or spills should



also be provided. Personnel should be trained in how to extinguish at least a small spill fire of flammable or combustibleliquids. Written copies of these operating and emergency procedures must be kept readily available in the operating area.The procedures must be consistent with available plant equipment and personnel. The written emergency proceduresshould deal with how to respond to fire, spills of flammable or combustible liquids or other emergencies. This procedureor plan shall include the following concerning a fire emergency:

procedures to be used in case of fire, such as sounding the alarm, notifying the fire department, evacuatingpersonnel, controlling and extinguishing the fire and notifying designated plant staff;

a.

the importance of constant attendance during all loading or unloading operations;b. maintenance and testing of fire protection equipment;c. holding of regular fire drills; andd. alternate measures for the safety of occupants while any fire protection equipment is shutdown.e.

In addition, the following must be included when a spill of flammable or combustible liquid is involved:the location of all manual emergency shut-off valves;a. the location of local and remote shut-down switches for all pumps or liquid pressuring systems;b. the location and method of activating any fire protection equipment;c. the procedures to be followed in the event of a spill with or without a fire. Refer to Article 4.1.6.4.; andd. procedures should be established to provide for the safe shutdown of operations under emergency conditions.e.

An excellent way to indicate the location of emergency of emergency shutdown valves or switches is the use of drawings ormarked up plans. These drawings should be included as a part of the written procedures. The local fire department andthe plant personnel who will be involved with the implementation should be consulted during the development stage ofthese written procedures. Periodic reviews of the procedures will ensure that they are up to date and include a current list ofpersonnel and telephone numbers. The procedures should be reviewed at least annually.

In order to assist plant personnel and the local fire department, signs must be posted in conspicuous locations to clearlyindicate where emergency shut-off valves, pump shutdown switches and fire equipment operating valves are located. Bothoperating and maintenance personnel should be trained and familiar with these valve and switch locations. They shouldalso be knowledgeable in the plant code used to identify flammable and combustible liquid piping.

A visual routine inspection procedure should be performed at least once a shift on all flammable and combustible liquidpiping systems and storage tanks to report any abnormal conditions such as leaks, excessive vibration, instrumentreadings not in the normal operating range, etc.

Safety shut-off off valves, shutdown switches and other safety devices must be frequently inspected to ensure they willoperate as designed. These safety devices are very important for the overall protection of the personnel and plant. It isrecommended that these devices be inspected at least once a month and tested annually or as suggested in the operatinginstructions that accompany these devices. Records should be kept showing the date and results of the inspections and/ortests.

Due to the inherent hazard associated with flammable and combustible liquids, any piping containing these liquids mustbe drained and purged before the start of any maintenance work. Equipment used for handling flammable or combustibleliquids should be removed and taken to the maintenance area to carry out required repairs. All valves or switches forpumps on piping systems that are not to be operated due to the maintenance work, are to be tagged and locked out. Therequirement of this Article does not apply to routine maintenance such as lubrication, painting, insulating and tightening.





















Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > Commentary on Part 4--FUEL DISPENSINGSTATIONS, BULK PLANTS, ... OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index >

SECTION 4.5 FUEL DISPENSING STATIONS

Most fuel dispensing falls under the "Gasoline Handling Act" or the "Energy Act". Part 4 of this Code does not apply to thestorage, handling, transportation and use of flammable liquids and combustible liquids to which these two pieces oflegislation apply. However, there may be some smaller manufacturers or repairers of internal combustion engines (e.g.lawn mowers, electrical generators) to which this section will apply. Although a commentary has not been provided at thistime for fuel dispensing stations, one may be developed in the future should the need arise.

SECTION 4.6 BULK PLANTS


This Section applies to the bulk storage of flammable and combustible liquids that are received in bulk from tank vessels,railway tankcars, tanker trucks or from pipelines and stored in tanks either above or underground. These bulk supplies arestored for the purpose of local distribution.

Subsection 4.6.2. - Storage

Flammable and combustible liquids will give off flammable vapours that are easily ignited. The liquids must be stored inclosed containers or proper storage tanks so that vapour release is kept to a minimum. This conserves the liquid,protects the environment and greatly reduces the fire hazard. These containers and storage tanks, whether abovegroundor underground, located outside of buildings, must conform to Section 4.3 and the piping to Section 4.4.

Many bulk storage plants are located on a railroad siding in order to receive flammable or combustible liquids in bulk viarailroad tankcars. Transport Canada General Order No O-32 specifies a minimum distance required from any storage tankand the rail line. Unless there is a vapour recovery system, significant vapour release occurs when a tank is being filled.Natural air movement and the separation distance allows the vapour to dissipate before reaching an area where there couldbe a source of ignition such as a passing locomotive.

Containers used to store flammable or combustible liquids indoors must conform with Subsection 4.2.7. Outside storageof containers of these liquids must be organized in such a way as to provide fire department access. This unobstructedaccess must be at least 6 metres wide and to within 60 metres of each container in the storage pile. Subsection 4.2.11.provides additional guidance.

Drainage and containment must conform to Subsection 4.1.6. to protect public sewers, waterways, subways, potable watersupplies or any underground occupancies.

A firmly anchored fence must completely surround the outdoor area containing the storage tanks, their containment area,container storage, ancillary equipment and unloading facilities. Unauthorized people who may be unaware of the potentialfire hazard due to tank venting should be kept away.

The shock pressure referred to in Article 4.6.2.3. deals with hydraulic shock pressure. The main concern is for hydraulicshock pressure created by "hydraulic hammer" as large flow rates are impeded when valves are shut or opened quickly.Temperature induced pressures are not a concern as the systems operate under low pressures and significant temperaturechanges are not encountered in the normal operation of these plants.

The word "arranged" in Article 4.6.2.4. should be interpreted to include how containers are stored, (i.e. solid pile, rackstorage, storage height, protection) inside the building, not just how the containers are arranged.

Subsection 4.6.3. - Dispensing

Commentary on Part 4--FUEL DISPENSING STATIONS, BULK PLANTS, ...





















The dispensing systems of flammable liquids must never be interconnected with the dispensing systems of combustibleliquids. The vapour space above the flammable liquid is normally too rich to burn whereas the vapour space above acombustible liquid is normally too lean to burn. Interconnecting the dispensing systems of these two classes of liquidsmay change the vapour space above the liquid from too rich or too lean to within the explosive range. Avoiding theinterconnecting of the dispensing systems will prevent the creation of a dangerous fire hazard.

Dispensing flammable liquids into the fuel tanks of vehicles of the general public must be physically separated from therest of the bulk plant by a fence conforming to Sentence 4.6.2.6. or by an equivalent barrier. The general public is notaware of the fire hazards that can exist around storage tanks, pumping equipment and loading/unloading facilities.

When dispensing or transferring a flammable liquid inside a building, this activity must be done in conformance withSubsections 4.1.7. and 4.1.8. since there will be a release of flammable vapours that can accumulate inside the building.

Subsection 4.6.4. - Loading and Unloading Facilities

When used in this Subsection, the terms "loading" and "unloading" shall mean the loading and unloading of tank vehiclesor railroad tank cars.

Flammable vapours will always be released by the loading and unloading of flammable and combustible liquids. ThisSubsection specifies separation distances from a filling or loading spout on a loading/unloading facility or from theunloading vehicle (tank truck or tank car) to any aboveground tanks, buildings and property lines. The separation distanceis used to increase the possibility of controlling a fire originating at the tank vehicle before it spreads to nearby tanks orbuildings. The separation distances are measured horizontally and are 7.5 metres for flammable liquids and 4.5 metresfor combustible liquids. Buildings such as shelters for personnel involved in the loading or unloading operations or tohouse the pumps used in the operation, are considered a part of the loading or unloading operation and the specifiedseparation clearances do not apply.

Backflow preventers or check valves must be installed in piping systems where a flammable or combustible liquid isdischarged from tank cars, tank trucks or marine vessels into tanks or process vessels. Reverse flow could occur wheneverthe flow is stopped, such as when the pump is shut down, if a liquid level differential between the source vessel and thereceiving vessel exists. The hydraulic head would cause a gravity flow and the source vessel could overfill and spill. Checkvalves in these pipelines would allow for flow in only one direction and prevent such accidents.

When loading a tank vehicle with flammable or combustible liquids through open domes or hatches, the valve used tocontrol the flow must be of the self-closing type and shall be manually held open except where automatic means areprovided for shutting off the flow when the tank is full. These safeguards prevent overfilling of tank vehicles. Top loadingrequires the operator to observe at the top of the tank. This operator manually operates the valve that controls the fillingoperation.

The emergence of bottom-loading practices has made it unnecessary for the operator to be on top of the tank but requiresother safeguards. For example, a preset delivery meter may be used to automatically stop the flow of liquid when a presetquantity has been delivered to the tank. However, an additional requirement of an automatic shutoff device (electrical orotherwise) is needed to accompany the preset meter. The shutoff device will stop the flow of liquid when the tank is full.Such dual shutoff systems are considered adequate where vapour recovery is employed, so that it is unnecessary to openthe top hatches of the tank during filling operations.

Filling tank vehicles at high flow rates through open domes or hatches, has always presented a risk of igniting theflammable vapours present by a static electrical discharge. In order to ensure that the fill spout and the tank opening are atthe same electrical potential, the filling line should be bonded to the vehicle tank. The chance for a static discharge betweenthe fill line and the tank opening is minimized with this procedure. Usually, either the vehicle or the fill line and often bothare grounded so that any static charge can be bled off safely to earth. Since the operator may not have knowledge ofprevious cargoes, the bonding is required during all top loading and unloading operations. This bonding shall consist of ametallic bond wire permanently electrically attached to the fill spout or to some other part of the loading/unloading facilitystructure in electrical contact with the fill spout in accordance with Subsections 4.1.4. and 4.1.8. The free end of such bondwire shall be provided with a clamp or equivalent device for convenient attachment to some metallic part in electricalcontact with the cargo tank of the tank vehicle. Before any dome covers are opened, the bonding connection must bemade to the vehicle or tank. The connection must remain in place until loading is completed and all dome covers closedand secured.

In bulk plants where flammable and combustible liquids are transferred, the railway tracks on which railway cars sit whilebeing loaded or unloaded must be electrically isolated from other rail lines. An insulator must be installed at either end ofthe loading/unloading facility spur line in accordance with Transport Canada General Orders. It is a common practice topaint this insulator a distinctive colour. Railway cars should not be spotted such that they bridge the insulator thus rendering



the insulator ineffective. The insulators prevent stray electrical currents from entering the area and causing sparks. Railwaytracks must also be electrically bonded together to prevent sparks from jumping between the rail ends. This is achieved byattaching a ground wire permanently to each rail end and permanently attaching to the adjacent rail end to provide electricalcontinuity. The rails must be connected to the loading/unloading facility piping and to a ground rod.

Loading operations commonly generate static electrical charges when liquids in motion contact other materials. High flowrates and free falling or splash filling during top loading are conditions that significantly increase the buildup of staticelectricity. Splash filling produces considerably more vapours that can be easily ignited by a static spark. This Subsectionrequires the use of a downspout to reduce vapour generation and static charge buildup. The downspout extends to thebottom of the tank and is shaped to minimize turbulence in the discharged liquid. (See static electricity section at the end ofthis commentary for additional information.)

Switch loading occurs when a flammable liquid is loaded into a tank truck or tank car that previously contained acombustible liquid or a combustible liquid is loaded into a tank previously containing a flammable liquid. Special careshould be given to these situations since the vapour space in the tank contains an air/vapour mixture that is too rich if thetank previously was filled with a flammable liquid or too lean if the tank was previously filled with a combustible liquid.Too rich means there is insufficient air (oxygen) present to support combustion and too lean means there is insufficient fuel(i.e. vapour) present to support combustion.

When switch loading occurs, the vapour space in the tank goes from too rich to too lean or vice versa depending on theswitch of liquids. The air/vapour mixture of the tank vapour space is in the explosive range during the transition. Any sparkin the mixture would result in a very serious explosion. Switch loading should be avoided whenever possible. At times whenswitch loading is unavoidable, the tank vapour space should be purged of its flammable vapours. Residual liquids shouldalso be removed from the tank and its associated piping. An inert gas or steam can be used to remove the vapours.Removing any remaining liquids in the tank removes the chance of a contaminated liquid reaching the consumer. Acontaminated liquid would have different fire characteristics from what was expected. Procedures for switch loading mustbe developed and followed.

A tank vehicle should be considered as a storage tank for the purpose of applying the requirements of Sentence4.1.8.2.(2) in Article 4.6.4.6.

Subsection 4.6.5. - Fire Protection

Many fires start as small fires and can frequently be extinguished by trained personnel using an appropriate fireextinguisher. It is a requirement of this Subsection to provide at least two 20BC rated portable fire extinguishers at all bulkplants where loading or unloading of flammable or combustible liquids occurs. The two required fire extinguishers maybe provided and carried on tank vehicles that are filled or unloaded as part of the bulk plant operation where the bulk plantis not required to be fenced. Each tank truck that operates out of such a bulk plant must carry two 20BC fire extinguishers.

Subsection 4.6.6. - Spill Control

Spills or leaks of flammable and combustible liquids must be contained and controlled as outlined in Subsection 4.1.6.All waste flammable or combustible liquids must be disposed of in accordance with the requirements of theEnvironmental Protection Act.

SECTION 4.7 PIERS AND WHARVES

Since the majority of piers and wharves fall under federal jurisdiction, no commentary is provided for this Section at thistime. If it is determined that a commentary is required, for this Section, it will be developed at a later date. (See alsoCommuniqué 97-034 entitled, "Fire Safety Inspections of Federal and Provincial Government Managed Buildings andLeased Space".)

The intent of the reference to Subsection 4.1.6. in Article 4.7.11.4. is to ensure that the containers are emptied in a safefashion to minimize the fire hazard resulting from a potential spill. Some operations may have cargo hoses andcouplings/adapters that would prevent the liquid from draining. These fittings are designed to industry standards such asRP1004, ASTM F1122 or Military standard A-A-59326. These dry disconnect hose assemblies need not be drained.

SECTION 4.8 PROCESS PLANTS

Subsection 4.8.1. - ApplicationScope

Processing plants may use flammable or combustible liquids in chemical reactions such as oxidation, reduction,



halogenation, hydrogenation, alkylation and polymerization and physical processes such as distillation, evaporation,condensation, filtration, heating, cooling, mixing and blending. This Section applies to refineries but not to ethanoldistilleries that are covered in Section 4.9. This Section does not apply to marketing terminals associated with an oilrefinery to which the Gasoline Handling Act applies.

For the purpose of applying Section 4.8, industrial processes referred to in Sentence (1) include but are not limited tochemical reactions or processes, including oxidation, reduction, halogenation, hydrogenation, alkylation andpolymerization, and

a.

physical processes, including distillation, evaporation, condensation, filtration, heating, cooling, mixing and blending.b.

Subsection 4.8.2. - Outdoor Processing Equipment

Processing equipment is frequently located outdoors at ground level or in an open multi-level structure as done in therefining industry rather than a building to reduce the risk of fire as a result of accumulation of vapours. The outdoorequipment may include accumulators, reboilers, heat exchangers, fired heaters, pumps and pressure vessels. Where theequipment is located outdoors, there is no need for ventilation or explosion venting features since the trapping of anyvapour release is not a problem. A flare system is sometime used to safety burn any flammable gases released fromprocess vessels. Fire and explosion resistant control rooms are often located a safe distance from the processingequipment which is operated remotely. Staff may be prohibited from entering or being present for significant periods of timein process locations where there is a high risk of fire or explosion.

The "maximum operating liquid capacity" of a process vessel can be compared to the maximum capacity of a storagetank. However, process vessels are designed to operate while partly filled with liquid with the remainder of the vessel filledwith gas or vapour. The liquid capacity is the important component. The "nearest important building on the same property"refers to a building on the same property that is not directly involved in the process. The distances are measured from thevessel itself since the vessel may or may not be housed in a building.

A liquid that will not undergo violent decomposition or reaction at or near normal temperatures and pressures and ischemically stable when subjected to shock or impact is considered a stable liquid. Unstable liquids require greater spacingsince the possibility exists for a runaway chemical reaction. Such a reaction may produce pressures and flow rates thatexceed the capacity of the pressure relief system. Note that the distances specified in Sentences 4.8.2.1.(2) and (3) aredoubled if fire exposure protection is not provided.

Throughout this Section the distinction has been made between the presence or absence of exposure protection in thedifferent types of tanks. The intent of this is to identify the availability of exposure protection to prevent the ignition ofadjacent tanks or properties. Adequate exposure protection also depends on the availability of a fire protection agencythrough either a public fire department or a plant fire brigade. Part 4 envisions a response time of 10 minutes or less withthe availability of resources to provide cooling water streams to an exposed tank or building at a minimum rate of 10L/min/m2 of surface area for a period of at least 4 hours.

Subsection 4.8.3. - Processing Buildings

Processing buildings must be capable of safely venting pressures generated by an explosion while maintaining thebuilding integrity. NFPA 68, "Guide for Venting of Deflagrations", provides design criteria.

Article 4.8.3.1. now sets the minimum standard to which explosion venting should be provided when required by the FireCode.

A fire separation with at least a 2 hour fire-resistance rating must separate pilot plants or small scale unit processesused for research or experimental purposes from the remainder of the building. New processes, equipment and chemicalreactions are developed and evaluated in pilot plants before scaling up to full size production. Problems that areencountered during the pilot phase are ironed-out before full production is contemplated. Increased risk of fires andexplosions occur during these trials. The required fire separation should protect adjacent personnel and process areas.

As most flammable vapours are heavier-than-air, processing buildings must not contain basements, cellars or pits wheresuch vapours may accumulate.

Except for existing laboratories that comply with Sentences 4.1.5.9.(4) and (5), only a maximum of 5 L of Class I liquid insafety containers can be stored in basements. Other than this, Class I liquids shall not be stored, handled or used inbasements of process plants.

The fire protection evaluation required by Article 4.8.4.3. would also be able to identify any fire or explosion hazardassociated with a basement or pit located in a building where flammable liquids are processed . This evaluation should



result in implementing appropriate mitigating measures to alleviate the fire or explosion hazard.

Where existing process buildings have basements or covered pits into which vapours can travel or accumulate,mechanical ventilation should be provided to a minimum level of 18 m3/hr per square metre (1 cfm/square foot) of the floorarea (about 6 air changes per hour) to ensure vapours do not accumulate.

All process buildings must be provided with ventilation in accordance with Subsection 4.1.7. NFPA 30, "Flammable andCombustible Liquids Code", provides additional guidance on fugitive emissions associated with process equipment.

Subsection 4.8.4. - Fire Prevention and Protection

Processing equipment such as pressure vessels, tanks, heaters and pumps are interconnected with piping and valves. Theinherent hazards of the process liquids dictate that the equipment be designed, arranged, installed and maintained toprevent the release of either the liquid or flammable vapour.

An explosion can occur in any space within the processing equipment where the flammable vapour concentration isbetween the LEL and UEL and suitable precautions have not been taken. Particular attention should be paid regardingconditions during start-up, shut-down and abnormal operating conditions. Precautions must include:

designing and maintaining process equipment to withstand an internal explosion without damage to the equipment;a. providing and maintaining explosion venting per NFPA 68; orb. installing and maintaining an explosion prevention system per NFPA 69.c.

Fire prevention and protection features must be provided based on an evaluation of the fire and explosion risks. Identifiedrisks must be mitigated via the installation of appropriate safeguards. Due to the wide range in size and type of processingfacilities, it is the responsibility of the owner to hire appropriate technical staff to develop the detailed design requirementsand procedures for fire prevention and protection. The use of outside consultants and design engineers familiar with theoperations and fire prevention and protection design should also be considered. Good engineering principles should beapplied to the following:

fire detection and automatic suppression systems, including the type, quantity and location of the protectionequipment in conformance with Part 6;

a.

automatic suppression systems to protect key and high risk processing equipment and their support structures (i.e.to prevent equipment failure or collapse that would contribute to the fuel load); and

b.

an emergency shut-down system that will safely shut down the process. These shut-down systems should befail-safe and operable from two remote locations.

c.

This Subsection prescribes several fire protection methods that are used singly or in combinations with one another.

Part 4 requires that the evaluation and fire safety measures be put in writing and be available for review by the Chief FireOfficial. Written procedures and training should be given to plant personnel in implementing the measures. Drills shouldalso be held so that workers are familiar with these emergency procedures.

SECTION 4.9 DISTILLERIES

Physical Properties of Ethyl Alcohol

It has been shown through fire tests and actual fire losses that ethyl alcohol/water solutions have fire protection needsdifferent from most flammable liquids. Ethyl alcohol, unlike most petroleum based products, is completely miscible inwater. Due to its miscibility in water, water is the most effective extinguishing agent for ethyl alcohol.

The vapour-air density of ethyl alcohol is 1.6 times that of air. Ethyl alcohol vapours are invisible, and the distance they willtravel is not always predictable. Testing carried out by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States indicates thatbeyond 0.5 metres from the source, vapours are generally less than 25% of the LEL and beyond 1.65 metres they areusually negligible.

The following two tables provide some physical properties of ethyl alcohol/water solutions.

% Ethyl Alcohol Closed Cup Flash Point, ºC

100 12.8

95 17



90 18

80 20

70 21

60 22

50 24

40 26

30 29

20 36

10 49

% Ethyl Alcohol Heat of Combustion,Btu/lb.

100 12,800

94 11,651

65 7,445

40 4,269

Subsection 4.9.1. - Scope

The principal distillery operations are grain handling, mashing and fermentation, distillation, alcohol processing, barrelwarehousing, storage of empty bottles and packaging materials, bottling, and storage of finished goods. This Sectionapplies only to those areas or buildings where distilled beverage alcohol or ethyl alcohol is distilled, concentrated,blended, mixed, stored or packaged. Liquids that contain less than 20% by volume of ethyl alcohol such as beer, wine, andsome spirits are not considered to be flammable liquids. Section 4.9 does not apply to these liquids or to wineries wheredistilled beverage alcohol is used to fortify wine. Distilled beverage alcohol in this Section is an ethyl alcohol/watermixture. The alcohol content in distilleries is usually not as high as 94% (neutral spirits) but mostly at 65% (typical agingpercentage) or 40% (typical bottling percentage).

Ethyl alcohol falls under the Federal Excise Regulations. If there are any conflicts between Part 4 and the Federal ExciseRegulations concerning the security of the product and measurements, the Federal Excise Regulations shall govern.


Explosion venting as per 4.2.9.6. is required in the area or room where the distillation of ethyl alcohol takes place. Theconcentration of alcohol vapour in the air within a distillation still usually exceeds the UEL. Any vapours escaping from a stillmay become explosive when mixed with air, however, extensive testing has shown that the vapour dissipates to safeconcentrations within 1 metre of the point of release.

Subsection 4.9.3. - Storage Tanks and Containers

Storage tanks, wooden vats, aging barrels, drums or containers used to store or process alcohol must be designed,fabricated and tested in accordance with good engineering practices to withstand the anticipated maximum operatingpressure or temperature. Storage tanks used for ethyl alcohol may be steel or stainless steel (for purity). Good engineeringpractices are provided in a guide recommended by The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States Inc., entitled"Recommended Fire Protection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage Facilities."

Since exposed steel supports do not have a 2 hour fire-resistance rating they require protection as do the timber supportsfor tanks. Automatic sprinklers have proven to be an effective means of achieving the required protection provided there isenough space under the tank to install them.

The design of the normal and emergency venting should be such that accumulation of flammable vapours inside thebuilding is prevented. New tank installations can achieve this by directing breather vents and emergency vents, equipped



with flame arresters or pressure/vacuum valves, to the outside of the building.

If ventilation design principles are applied to the building ventilation, venting into the building space may be acceptable forexisting installations. Such measures include, but are not limited to: installation of automatic sprinklers throughout the tankroom and under any raised tanks greater than 1.2 metres in diameter; classification of electrical equipment and wiringaccording to the zone classifications of the "Canadian Electrical Code"; provision of adequate natural or mechanicalventilation meeting the objectives of Article 4.9.6.1.; and training of personnel in safe operating procedures.

Subsection 4.9.4. - Storage

Unless the building is equipped with sprinkler protection conforming to NFPA 13, "Standard for the Installation of SprinklerSystems", inside tank storage of ethyl alcohol is restricted to a maximum of 25,000 L. Where the building is protected byautomatic sprinklers, no limits are placed on quantities of ethyl alcohol storage. Tests and fire losses have shown thatsprinkler protection quickly controls and extinguishes a fire where ethyl alcohol is involved.

Subsection 4.9.5. - Piping and Pumping Systems

The design, fabrication, assembly and inspection of piping and pumping systems should be in accordance with recognizedgood engineering standards and accepted industry practices. A good guideline to consult is the "Recommended FireProtection Practices for Distilled Spirits Beverage Facilities", published by the Distilled Spirits Council of the United StatesInc. (DISCUS), second edition October 1992.


The vapour concentration in enclosed areas where ethyl alcohol is being handled or used should be maintained at or below25% of the LEL. The area should be ventilated at a rate sufficient to maintain this concentration and the concentrationshould be confirmed by sampling the actual vapour concentration under normal operating conditions. Natural buildingventilation may be sufficient in building areas where ethyl alcohol is stored in tanks, barrels or as finished product. Localmechanical ventilation will likely be required for dispensing operations and in a distillation room or area.


Provisions should be made to prevent accidental spills from endangering either important facilities or adjoining property. Anemergency drainage system must direct any spill together with water used for fire fighting to a safe location. Curbs,scuppers, special drains, or other suitable means must be implemented to prevent the flow of spills throughout thebuilding. Intermediate curbs or trench drains are desirable in large tank rooms to improve separation and spill control.

Subsection 4.9.8. - Fire Protection

Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in conformance with Part 6 and in conformance with the followingrequirements:

in aging or maturing warehouses, at least one 4A:30BC rated fire extinguisher shall be provided at each buildingexit; and

a.

one 10BC rated fire extinguisher on each industrial forklift truck.b.

Hose stations that comply with Section 6.4 are permitted in place of the portable fire extinguishers.


























Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4--Withdrawal of Storage Tanks ...

SECTION 4.10 WITHDRAWAL OF STORAGE TANKS FROM SERVICE


This Section outlines the procedures to be followed when storage tanks for flammable or combustible liquids areremoved permanently or taken temporarily out-of-service.

Subsection 4.10.2. - Rendering Storage tanks Temporarily Out of Service

This Subsection applies to both underground and aboveground storage tanks, which are taken temporarily out of service.Flammable or combustible liquid can be left in the tank in underground tanks if the out-of-service period does not exceed180 days. The tank liquid level must be measured monthly and compared to the previous measurements. A written recordof the monthly measurements must be maintained and must be made available for inspection by the Chief Fire Official, ifrequested. Valves, covers or dispensing facilities on this piping must be securely locked except for the vent line from anunderground tank. This vent line must be maintained in an operable condition.

A tank must be emptied and the associated piping drained if the tank will be out-of-service for a period exceeding 180 days.Normal methods of emptying a tank are not adequate to remove all of the liquid. Additional requirements to remove theresidual liquids plus the flammable vapours in the tank vapour are outlined. Underground tanks and the piping must becompletely refilled with a combustible liquid or 1 kilogram of dry ice for each 500 liters of tank capacity should be added tothe tank to displace the air in the vapour space with carbon dioxide. If the tank is filled with a combustible liquid, monthlymeasurements of the liquid level must be taken with written records maintained and available to the Chief Fire Official. Fillpipes, covers, gauging opening covers, dispensing facilities shall be securely locked when not in use and the vent line mustbe maintained.

Some underground storage tanks are only operated on a seasonal basis, such as the storage of heating oil. At the close ofeach storage season, the liquid level must be recorded and retained for inspection. Fill pipes covers, gauging openingcovers, dispensing facilities shall be securely locked during the off season and the vent line for the tank must bemaintained. Prior to the next operating season, the liquid level must be taken for each such tank and compared with themeasurement taken at the close of the previous season. Immediate action must be taken if there is any loss of liquid or gainof water.

Before underground storage tanks go back into service after being out of service for a year or longer, the tank and itsassociated piping must be tested for leaks in conformance with Subsections 4.3.15. and 4.4.6.

Where aboveground tanks and associated piping will be out of service for a period not exceeding 180 days they must haveall piping connected to the tank capped and valves locked in the fully closed position. The liquid level in the tank must bemeasured at least monthly and the readings compared to the previous readings.

If an aboveground storage tank is to be out of service for a period greater than 180 days it must be completely drained ofall liquids and the vapour space purged of flammable vapours. The tank should be clearly marked "Empty".

Subsection 4.10.3. - Removal of Underground Storage tanks

When an underground storage tank has been out-of-service for 2 years or is to be taken out of service permanently, thefollowing must be done:

remove all flammable or combustible liquid from the tank and from connecting pipelines or dispensing facilities;a. remove the tank from the ground and purge it of all flammable vapours or, when approved by the Chief FireOfficial, abandon the tank in place;

b.

remove all sections of connecting pipelines that are not to be used further and permanently seal any pipe endsc.

Commentary on Part 4--Withdrawal of Storage Tanks ...





















remaining in the ground; andremove any contaminated soil and replace it with clean fill in accordance with the Environmental Protection Act.d.

Underground storage tanks may be abandoned in place if the Chief Fire Official determines that it is not practical toremove the tank. As much liquid as possible should be removed from the tank and then an inert material such as a sloppyconcrete mixture should be packed into the tank. As much of the underground associated piping as practical should beremoved. If the Chief Fire Official determines that the removal of the piping is impractical, the piping should be drained ofall liquid and purged of vapours. The piping ends must be permanently capped or sealed.

When the Chief Fire Official is satisfied that it is impractical to remove underground tank or piping as required in Clause4.10.3.1.(1)(c), such tanks can be filled with inert material or the pipes sealed. However, the requirements of Clauses4.10.3.1.(1)(a) and (b) must be complied with.

Subsection 4.10.4. - Disposal and Reuse of Storage tanks

Before a storage tank can be disposed of it must be rendered unfit for further use by cutting openings into the tank. Thetank must be completely purged of flammable vapours or otherwise rendered safe for hot work before a cutting torch orother flame or spark producing equipment can be used. Any remaining flammable vapours pose a serious fire hazard if anignition source is introduced.

Used storage tanks are not permitted to be reinstalled unless the tank complies with the prescribed standards. Rivetedstorage tanks should not be reused because rivets may become loose during the moving of the tank. Loose rivets causeleaks. Aboveground storage tanks may be reinstalled but must comply with Section 4.3.

Existing tanks cannot be reused where there is pitting or gouges that reduce the shell thickness by 0.8 millimetres, or wherethere are dents greater than 30 degrees of the original shape. These flaws represent shell weakness that could result intank failure if reused. If the existing shell thickness is equal to or greater than the design thickness indicated in Subsection4.3.1. even after subtraction of the greatest depth of any pitting, the tank could be reused if it is in conformance withSubsection 4.3.1. or has been refurbished in conformance with Sentence 4.10.4.2.(3).

SECTION 4.11 TANK VEHICLES


This Section applies to tank vehicles that are used to transport flammable and combustible liquids when the vehicle islocated or parked on a property covered under this Code. Such vehicles include tanker trucks and fuel distribution trucks.


At least one portable fire extinguisher must be mounted on every tank vehicle and the extinguisher must be readilyaccessible. Where there is only one extinguisher, it must have a minimum rating of 20BC. Where there are two or moreextinguishers, each extinguisher must have a minimum rating of 10BC. These extinguishers must conform to Part 6.

No hot work or smoking should be performed on or near these vehicles.

Unless the building is specifically designed for the parking of these tank vehicles, they should not be parked inside. Abuilding specifically designed for this use must include ventilation features, spill control and drainage systems, control of allignition sources, fire separation and fire protection features. Any tank vehicle that has a leak of a flammable orcombustible liquid should never be parked inside a building. Other potential problems could occur if the vehicle tankshave been filled to their maximum capacity with flammable or combustible liquid during winter months and parked insidea heated building. The temperature change will result in the expansion of the liquid and could overflow. Space shouldalways be provided in a tank to compensate for possible thermal expansion of the liquid.

Outdoor parking for tank vehicles is preferred. The vehicle operator cannot leave the vehicle unattended outdoors for morethan one hour unless the following conditions are met:

the vehicle is parked in a designated parking space;a. the vehicle is at least 15 metres from any building; andb. the vehicle is not exposed to undue hazard from collision from other vehicles.c.

Subsection 4.11.3. - Loading and Unloading

Static electrical discharge presents a risk of igniting the flammable vapours during loading and unloading operations. Thisrisk can be minimized by bonding and grounding the dispensing and receiving vessels and all equipment in between. A



metallic bond wire shall be attached permanently to the loading or unloading piping system in contact with the fill spout inaccordance with Subsections 4.1.4. and 4.1.8. A clamp or equivalent attachment to some metallic part in electrical contactwith the cargo tank of the tank vehicle must be provided for the free end of the bond wire. This connection must be inplace before any tank dome covers are opened and must remain in place during the entire operation until the dome cover isclosed.

Further information about static electricity is located at the end of this commentary (see Appendix B).

Usually, the vehicle operator loads and unloads the vehicle by manually operating a valve. There should be a fully trainedperson present and in a position to shut off the flow of liquid should there be a spill or emergency.

An operating engine can be a source of ignition for released flammable vapours because of their ignition system and hotexhaust manifold and pipe. For this reason, vehicle engines should be shut off while Class I liquids are loaded or unloaded.If the pump used to unload found in all types of occupancies a viscous liquid is driven by the vehicle engine, specialsafeguards must be taken to prevent released vapours from reaching the running engine.

The following loading/unloading procedure is provided as an example. This procedure must be displayed in a prominentlocation and be readable for drivers and employees. A similar procedure should be developed in keeping with the specificrequirements of dispensing and good engineering practices.

No smoking in the area.a. Shut-off vehicle engine while loading or unloading.b. No mechanical repairs to be done while at the loading/unloading area.c. Attach ground cable prior to commencement of loading/unloading and do not remove until after the completion of theoperation.

d.

Do not open more than one hatch at any time.e. Maintain constant attendance at the loading operation.f. Avoid splash filling.g. Cleanup any spills prior to vehicles entering or leaving area.h. No switch loading without taking suitable precautions (e.g. steam purging or filling tank with inert gas).i.

A tank vehicle should be considered as a storage tank for the purpose of applying the requirements of Sentence4.1.8.2.(2) in Article 4.11.3.2.

SECTION 4.12 LABORATORIES


Laboratories found in all types of occupancies that use or handle flammable or combustible liquids must comply withthis Section as well as any applicable requirements in Sections 4.1 and 4.2. If there is a conflict between generalrequirements in Sections 4.1 or 4.2 and the specific requirements in Section 4.12, then the specific requirements overridethe general.

Subsection 4.12.2. - Separation

Fire separations having a one hour fire-resistance rating are required between laboratories and other parts of thebuilding. Existing fire separations consisting of plaster and lath or gypsum board are considered as complying with thisrequirement.

Subsection 4.12.3. - Maximum Quantities

Laboratories may contain a vast array of chemicals stored in small quantities and in glass containers (to maintain chemicalpurity and avoid contamination). To ensure that the combustible loading within these areas does not reach an unsafe level,storage quantities have been specified. Excess quantities may be maintained in a storage cabinet conforming toSubsection 4.2.10. or in a storage room conforming to Subsection 4.2.9. All containers must be kept closed when not inuse.

Laboratory storage containers must not exceed 5 L in volume and must conform to the design, construction and labelingrequirements set out in Subsection 4.2.3.

Not more than 300 L of flammable and combustible liquids may be kept in the open area of a laboratory. Of this total, notmore than 50 L may be flammable liquids.



Subsection 4.12.4. - Emergency Planning

Laboratories must conform to the requirements for emergency planning set out in Section 2.8 of the Ontario Fire Code withthe following exceptions:

fire drills must be held at least every 6 months;●

laboratory personnel must receive training in the safe handling of the flammable and combustible liquids; and●

security measures must be implemented to ensure that unauthorized persons do not have access to thelaboratories.

●


Written spill procedures are required and must conform to the detailed requirements set out in Article 4.1.6.4.

Subsection 4.12.6. - Electrical Equipment

Electrical equipment in a location where flammable or combustible liquids may be present must conform to therequirements of the Electrical Safety Code made under the Power Corporation ActElectricity Act, 1998. For example,where flammable or combustible liquids are dispensed, used at or above room temperature, or reacted with otherchemicals, these activities should occur within a fume hood that has all electrical components located outside the fumehood or comply with the Class I Division 1 or Class I Division 2 electrical classifications, as appropriate. Class I Division 1applies to locations where flammable gases or vapours are present all of the time or intermittently. Class I Division 2applies to locations where flammable gases and vapours are enclosed in tanks, pipes, etc. and can only escape underabnormal conditions such as puncture or equipment malfunction. Division 2 also applies to locations where flammablegases or vapours are normally prevented by mechanical ventilation, but may be present due to failure of the ventilationsystem. Where flammable gases or vapours may escape from a Division 1 location, electrical equipment should meet theDivision 2 requirements.

Subsection 4.12.7. - Inspection and Maintenance

Electrical equipment, mechanical systems, piping, valves, and automatic and manual control and safety devices must beinspected annually and maintained in good operating condition at all times. Equipment manufacturers' operating manualsnormally provide recommended maintenance frequencies that should be adhered to in order to keep the equipment in goodoperating condition at all times.

Experience has shown that ventilation systems require special attention for such problems as corrosion and build-up ofcombustible materials. General laboratory exhaust ventilation systems must be inspected at least annually. Inspection offume hoods and similar local exhaust systems must occur at least every six months.


Laboratory ventilation systems must conform to Subsection 4.1.7. for design and construction requirements of thesesystems. In addition, laboratory ventilation systems must also comply with Articles 4.12.8.2. to 4.12.8.5. that detail morespecific requirements.

During the consultations held to develop these regulations, it was recognized that it would be exceedingly difficult,impractical and costly to upgrade some existing systems to comply with all of these requirements. Therefore, existingexhaust systems need not comply with Articles 4.1.7.3., 4.1.7.4., and 4.12.8.2. to 4.12.8.5. In addition, where make-up air isprovided for existing ventilation systems, these systems shall be considered to be in compliance with the more onerousprovisions outlined in Article 4.1.7.5. for make-up air. Similarly, existing ventilation systems that maintain a negativepressure within the ventilation system with respect to the surroundings, shall be considered to be in compliance with themore stringent requirements set out in Article 4.1.7.7. for exclusive use of the exhaust system.

Sentences 4.12.8.1.(2), (3) and (4) modify the application of Subsection 4.1.7. to existing conditions.

Both local and general exhaust systems are required in most laboratories. Local exhaust systems capture flammable gasesand vapours at their source (e.g. fume hoods used for dispensing, processing, mixing). These local exhaust systems mayrequire explosion proof electrical equipment where this equipment is exposed to these vapours. Flammable gases andvapours that escape capture by a local exhaust system, or are generated in small quantities outside a local exhaustsystem, are captured by the general exhaust system of the laboratory. This general exhaust system must be designed toprevent flammable gases and vapours from migrating to other parts of the building. The exhaust system must also bedesigned to prevent gases and vapours from re-entering the building via the make-up air system.



Subsection 4.12.9. - Refrigerated Storage

As it would be impractical to ventilate the interior of a refrigerator to remove accumulation of gases and vapours, allelectrical equipment within the refrigerator must conform to Subsection 4.1.4. for Class I Division 1 locations. Electricalequipment mounted on the outside surface of the refrigerator must either be mounted on top of the refrigerator or meetSubsection 4.1.4. for Class I Division 2 locations.

Refrigerated storage containing flammable or combustible liquids must be identified as containing flammable orcombustible liquids.

Class I liquids stored in a refrigerator must be kept in closed containers. Depending on the temperature within therefrigerator and the vapour pressure of combustible liquids stored at that temperature, these liquids may need to be keptin closed containers to prevent the accumulation of vapours within this enclosed storage.



























Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4- Appendix A

Commentary on Part 4- Appendix A

Model Spill Control Procedure

1. Purpose

To provide guidelines on how to contain and clean-up spills of flammable and combustible liquids; how to provide safedisposal of these materials and whom to notify in the event of a spill.

2. DefinitionMinor SpillA minor spill is small enough it can be safely cleaned up using the emergency spill kit. (See Item 7)

i.

Major SpillA major spill is one that cannot be contained safely with the materials on the site and/or threatens to enter the sewersystem or travel beyond the boundaries of the plant to endanger the environment.

ii.

3. Emergency Spill Coordinators

A list of at least three persons who have knowledge and experience in the safe handling, cleanup and proper disposal ofwaste materials should be provided along with their telephone numbers. One of these people should be notifiedimmediately after a spill has occurred and should respond to the spill site to take charge of containing the spill, cleanup andwaste disposal.

4. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

All employees involved in the handling, use and storage of flammable and combustible liquids are required to know thehazard associated with these liquids. MSDS should be readily available for all hazardous materials the employees will be incontact with, including flammable and combustible liquids. The emergency spill

coordinators mentioned in Item 3 should have the responsibility to ensure that this data is available to employees and theMSDS manual is updated when any new material is brought into the facility or a new material is produced.

5. Action To Take In Case Of A Spill

Every facility that produces, stores or handles flammable and/or combustible liquids should be capable of dealing withminor spills and organizing an immediate response in the event of a more serious spill.

5.1 Safety Considerations

Appropriate protective equipment must be worn before a spill can be cleaned up. Rubber gloves, coveralls, rubber apron,rubber boots, safety goggles and breathing apparatus are just some of the equipment that may be used, per the adviceoutlined in the MSDS required under WHMIS.

All spill material should be considered flammable and hazardous until otherwise proven. The spill should be isolated fromany possible ignition sources such as smoking, welding, electrical equipment and grinding.

5.2 Contain the Spill5.2.1. Where a leak occurs, quickly shut off the source by closing a valve and/or shutting down a pump.5.2.2. Use shovels and absorbent booms or socks to dam the area.5.2.3. Use absorbent pads, wipes or absorbent material to soak up the liquid.


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5.2.4. Prevent the spill from contaminating other materials, entering sewers or traveling off the plant siteto endanger the environment.

5.3 Ventilation

A spill of flammable liquids will result in the release of vapours that are usually heavier-than-air. These vapours tend tosettle on the floor or in pits, stairwells and trenches or other areas below the floor level. These vapours are capable oftraveling long distances and may encounter an ignition source at a remote point, ignite and flash back to the original spillarea. The removal of these vapours at the floor level or from other low areas will prevent this from occurring.

Natural and mechanical ventilation are the two basic forms of ventilation. Natural ventilation uses convection currents ofheated air or normal diffusion to carry vapours away from an area. Opening windows and doors will assist this process.Great care should be taken when using mechanical ventilation such as portable fans. Unless these fans are classified asClass I, Division 1 they may create a source of ignition for these vapours.

5.4 Contact One Of The Emergency Coordinators

Immediately contact one of the Emergency Coordinators, who should respond and take charge of the situation.

If a fire should result, follow plant procedures for Fire.

6. Other Important Telephone Numbers6.1 Emergency

9116.2 Ministry of Environment (24 hr) 1-800-268-60606.3 Cleanup Contractor

(Prior arrangements should be made witha qualified contractor specializing in containing,cleanup and disposal of waste safely.)

Telephone Number

6.4 Local fire department Telephone Number

7. Emergency Spill Kit

Wherever flammable/combustible liquids are processed, stored or used an emergency spill kit containing the followingitems should be readily available. This kit should be customized to each operation and the type of materials and quantitieslikely to be spilled. An example of a kit is set out below:

Absorbent pads or pillows for use on floors or ground●

Absorbent for use on water●

50 feet of absorbent socks for use as a dam.●

Non-sparking shovels●

Perforated shovels (for removing absorbent from water)●

60 L refuse sacks●

10 L pails●

Brooms●

Vermiculite●

Rubber gloves●

Rubber aprons●

Coveralls●

Rubber boots●

Heavy duty safety goggles●

Respirator with the appropriate canisters●

Reviewing the history of spills may provide some useful insight as to quantities likely to be spilled.

The emergency spill kit should be checked regularly to ensure that all items are at hand and in a usable condition.

Personnel should be trained both in preventing and responding to an incident in order to create a risk awareness among



the employees. All personnel should have practical training in alarm procedures, fire fighting, life saving, the reduction ofenvironmental damage and on the proper method of handling a minor spill using the emergency spill kit. Quick applicationof adsorbent materials will reduce the rate of vapour generation.

8. Disposal Of Waste

Disposal must occur in conformance with municipal by-law and MOE requirements. Qualified private contractors may beused for larger spills. Absorbent socks, booms or pillows used to clean up a spill, should be sealed in steel drums that arelabeled as containing flammable or combustible waste.

NOTE:

Each spill control procedure should be tailored to the particular facility. It is strongly recommended that the local firedepartment review and comment on each written spill procedure before the plan is finalized. A review of the procedureshould be initiated after any changes in plant processes, storage arrangements and new technology.



























Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > OFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index > Commentaryon Part 4--Appendix B

Commentary on Part 4--Appendix B

Static Electricity

In order for static electricity to be a source of ignition, four conditions must be fulfilled;there must be an effective means of static generation;a. there must be a means of accumulating the static charges and maintaining a suitable difference of electricalpotential;

b.

there must be a spark discharge of adequate energy or heat; andc. this spark must occur in an ignitable mixture.d.

Electricity can be analogous to a weightless and indestructible fluid, moving freely through certain substances such asmetals. These metals are known as conductors. However, flow through or over the surface of substances known as"nonconductors" or "insulators" is difficult or not possible. These substances include gases, glass, rubber, resin, sulphur,paraffin and most dry petroleum oils and many plastic materials. Static electricity is the electricity trapped on the surface ofa nonconductive body. Electricity on a conducting body that is in contact only with nonconductors is also prevented fromescaping and is therefore not mobile or "static". The body on which the electricity is present is said to be positively (+) ornegatively (-) charged. The structure of an atom consists of an inner area of protons (+) and an outer area of electrons (-).When a force such as a flow of fluid through a pipe has abnormally separated some of the positive and negativeconstituents a static charge is created. Surfaces possessing an excess or shortage of one electron in every 100,000 atomsare very strongly charged.

Most static-corrective procedures try to recombine separated charges before sparking potentials are attained or they avoidspark gaps where harmful discharges could occur. If static conditions cannot be avoided, measures must be taken to makesure that no ignitable mixtures are present where sparks may occur.

The appearance of an electric charge on the surface of an insulator or insulated conductive body is called static electricity.The charge is usually a result of the expenditure of mechanical work. There will be an exactly equal but opposite charge, itscounterpart, close by.

Liquids, including flammable and combustible liquids, generate static when moving in contact with other materials. Thisoccurs commonly in operations such as flowing through pipes and in mixing, pouring, pumping, filtering or agitating. Staticcan accumulate in the liquid under certain conditions such as those associated with highly refined hydrocarbons. In suchcases a static spark can occur between two areas of liquid if the accumulation is ample. If this spark occurs in a flammablevapour-air mixture, ignition and fire are possible. Measures should be in place to avoid the simultaneous occurrence ofthese two conditions.

Bonding usually refers to the action of electrically connecting metal containers, fill spouts, funnels, filters and piping. Copperwire is usually used to connect the separate items. An electrical resistance meter is necessary to check on the continuity ofthe bonding due to resistance that may be present as a result of conditions such as oxidation, paint, dirt and unseengaskets. Grounding refers to the dissipation of the charges into the earth via copper plumbing, the metal building structureor ground rods. Workers should also ground themselves before dispensing to ensure that static charge buildup from theirclothing, particularly in the winter when the air is dry, does not create a source of ignition.

Flammable liquids are often mixed in churns or autoclaves with various pigments, resins or similar materials in themanufacture of paints, varnishes, lacquers, printing inks and similar products. A severe fire and explosion hazard existsdepending on the flash point of the solvents, the amount involved, the method of handling, the amount of agitation, theventilation provided and other factors. Static electricity buildup must be controlled under these conditions. Since static isgenerated when two dissimilar materials flow in contact with one another, slowing the flow of these materials will diminish


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the rate of static electricity generation.

Even if the flammable liquid container is nonconductive (e.g. plastic containers), there is always the potential for staticaccumulation. Splash filling, turbulence, or filtering can generate charges that can accumulate on the surface of the liquid oron conducting components insulated from ground.

The buildup of a static charge in smaller nonconductive containers can be minimized by:bottom filling using a grounded pipe; and1. limiting flow rates to 0.9 m/s (3 ft/s), particularly if there is a filter upstream of the filling operation.2.

The handling of flammable liquids in portable containers is potentially hazardous, even if the liquid is conductive.Discharges can occur either from a charged liquid or from the container itself.

For additional suggested precautions that should be considered refer to NFPA 77, "Recommended Practice on StaticElectricity", for application to the following:

Storage tanks (Section 4-3)a. Piping Systems (Section 4-4)b. Rubber Tired Vehicles (Section 4-5)c. Aircraft (Section 4-6)d. Tankcars, Tankers & Barges (Section 4-7)e. Container Filling (Section 4-8)f.







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Location: Office of the Fire Marshal Home > Publications > Guidelines and Technical Papers > Commentary on Part 4--List of Flammable andCombustible LiquidsOFM -- Commentary on Part 4 Index >

APPENDIX C

Partial List of Flammable and Combustible LiquidsNote: Material Safety Data Sheets should be consulted for all flammable and combustible liquids. Properties mayvary from those listed below.

Liquid FlashPoint(oC)

BoilingPoint(oC)

LiquidClass

Acetal -20.6 102.7 IB

Acetaldehyde 38.9 20.8 IA

Acetic Anhydride 48.9 140.0 II

Acetone -20.0 56.1 IB

Acetonitrile 5.6 81.7 IB

Acetonyl Acetone 78.9 192.2 IIIA

Acetophenone 76.7 202.2 IIIA

Acetyl Chloride 4.4 51.1 IB

Acrolein -26.1 52.5 IB

Acrolein Dimer 47.8 151.1 II

Acrylic Acid 50.0 141.7 II

Acrylic Aldehyde -26.1 52.5 IB

Acrylonitrile 0.0 77.2 IB

Adiponitrile 93.3 295.0 IIIA

Adipoyl Chloride 72.2 125.0 IIIA

Commentary on Part 4--List of Flammable and Combustible Liquids

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Adipyldinitrile 92.7 295.0 IIIA

Aldol 65.6 78.9 IIIA

Allyl Acetate 22.2 104.0 IC

Allyl Alcohol 21.1 96.5 IB

Allyl Amine -28.9 53.3 IB

Allyl Bromide -1.1 71.1 IB

Allyl Caproate 65.5 186.1 IIIA

Allyl Chloride -31.7 45.0 IB

Allyl Chloroformate 31.1 106.1 IC

Allyl Ether -6.7 95.0 IB

Allyl Trichloride 82.2 156.1 IIIA

Allyl Trichlorosilane 35.0 117.5 IC

Allyl Vinyl Ether 20.0 67.2 IB

Allylidene Diacetate 82.0 107.0 IIIA

Allylpropenyl -21.1 66.1 IB

Amino Butanol 73.9 178.0 IIIA

Amino Ethane -17.8 16.7 IA

Amino Metyl Propanol 67.2 165.0 IIIA

Amino Propanol 79.4 183.9 IIIA

Aminobenzene 69.9 184.4 IIIA

Aminobenzenethiol 79.4 227.2 IIIA

Aminocyclohexane 31.1 134.4 IC

Aminoethyl Piperazine 93.3 222.2 IIIA

Aminoheptane 54.4 155.0 II



Aminopentane -1.1 99.9 IB

Amino-2-Propanol -8.3 160.0 IB

Amoxybenzene 85.0 216.1 IIIA

Amyl Acetate 15.6 148.8 IC

Amyl Alcohol 32.8 137.8 IC

Amyl Benzene 65.6 185.0 IIIA

Amyl Bromide 32.2 53.3 IB

Amyl Butyrate 57.2 185.0 II

Amyl Chloride 12.8 106.1 IB

Amyl Ether 57.2 190.0 II

Amyl Formate 26.1 130.5 IC

Amyl Lactate 79.4 113.9 IIIA

Amyl Mercaptan 18.3 126.6 IB

Amyl Methyl Alcohol 45.6 130.0 II

Amyl Methyl Ketone 48.8 150.0 II

* Amyl Naphthalene 123.9 288.0 IIIB

Amyl Nitrate 47.8 152.2 II

* Amyl Phenol 103.8 342.0 IIIB

Amyl Phenyl Ether 85.0 216.1 IIIA

* Amyl Phenyl Methyl Ether 98.8 240.0 IIIB

Amyl Propionate 41.1 135.0 II

Amyl Sulfides 85 170 IIIA

Amyl Toluene 82.1 204.4 IIIA

Amyl Tolyl Ether 90.5 227.0 IIIA



Amyl Trichlorosilane 62.8 167.8 IIIA

Amylamine -1.1 99.9 IB

Amylene -17.8 30.0 IA

Amylene Chloride 41.1 130.0 II

Aniline 69.9 184.4 IIIA

* Anilinoethanol 151.7 286.1 IIIB

Anisole 51.6 153.8 II

Anol 67.8 161.1 IIIA

* Anthracene 121.0 340.0 IIIB

Banana Oil 15.6 148.8 IC

Benzaldehyde 62.8 179.0 IIIA

Benzedrine 26.6 200.0 IC

Benzene or Benzol -11.1 80.0 IB

Benzonitrile 84.9 191.0 IIIA

Benzotrifluoride 12.2 102.1 IB

Benzoyl Chloride 72.2 197.0 IIIA

Benzyl Acetate 90.5 213.7 IIIA

Benzyl Alcohol 93.3 205.6 IIIA

Benzyl Chloride 67.2 178.7 IIIA

Benzyl Mercaptan 69.9 194.8 IIIA

Benzyldiethylamine 76.6 207.2 IIIA

Bicyclohexyl 73.8 238.7 IIIA

* Biphenyl 112.7 253.6 IIIB

Bis Chloroethyl Ether 55 178.3 II



Borneol 65.5 211.6 IIIA

Boron Trifluoride Etherate 63.9 126.1 IIIA

Bromo Butane 18.3 101.7 IB

Bromobenzene 51.1 156.0 II

Bromoethene -23.0 37.8 IA

Bromopentane 32.2 53.3 IB

Bromopropene -1.1 71.1 IB

Bromotoluene 78.8 183.8 IIIA

Butanal -22.2 76.1 IB

Butane -60.0 -0.5 IA

Butanediamine 51.7 142.8 II

Butanediol 40.0 193.9 II

Butanedione 26.7 87.8 IC

Butanethiol 1.7 97.7 IB

Butanol 36.7 117.2 IC

Butanone -8.9 80.0 IB

Butoxyethoxyethyl Chloride 87.7 215 IIIA

Butoxyl 76.7 135.0 IIIA

Butyl Acetate 22.2 126.7 IB

Butyl Acetoacetate 85 213.9 IIIA

Butyl Acrylate 47.8 145.0 II

Butyl Alcohol (Normal) 36.7 117.2 IC

Butyl Alcohol (Secondary) 23.9 93.9 IC

Butyl Alcohol (Tertiary) 11.1 82.8 IB



Butyl Amine -12.0 77.0 IB

Butyl Benzene (Normal) 71.1 179.8 IIIA

Butyl Benzene (Secondary) 52.2 173.3 II

Butyl Benzene (Tertiary) 60.0 168.9 II

Butyl Bromide 18.3 101.7 IB

Butyl Butyrate 53.3 151.7 II

Butyl Carbinol 36.7 113.9 IC

Butyl Chloride (Normal) -9.4 76.6 IB

Butyl Chloride (Secondary) 0.0 68.3 IB

Butyl Chloride (Tertiary) 0.0 51.1 IB

Butyl Ethanolamine 76.7 191.6 IIIA

Butyl Ether 25.0 141.1 IC

Butyl Ethyl Ether 4.4 82.2 IB

Butyl Ethylene -6.7 63.3 IB

Butyl Formate 17.8 107.2 IB

Butyl Glycolate 61.1 180.0 IIIA

Butyl Isovalerate 52.8 150.0 II

Butyl Lactate 71.1 160.0 IIIA

Butyl Mercaptan 1.7 97.7 IB

Butyl Methacrylate 52.2 162.8 II

Butyl Methanoate 17.8 107.2 IB

Butyl Monoethanolamine 76.7 192.2 IIIA

Butyl Nitrate 36.1 136.1 IC

Butyl Phenyl Ether 82.2 210.0 IIIA



Butyl Propionate 32.2 146.1 IC

Butyl Trichlorosilane 54.4 148.9 II

Butyl Vinyl Ether -9.4 94.4 IB

* Butylaminoethyl Methacrylate 96.0 93.3 IIIB

Butylcyclohexylamine 93.3 209.4 IIIA

Butylene Glycol 85.0 180.0 IIIA

Butylene Oxide -21.7 62.8 IB

Butylstyrene 80.5 218.7 IIIA

Butylurethane 91.7 202.2 IIIA

Butyraldehyde -22.2 76.1 IB

Butyraldol 73.9 137.8 IIIA

Butyraldoxime 57.8 152.2 II

Butyric Acid 71.7 163.9 IIIA

Butyric Anhydride 82.2 198.0 IIIA

Butyric Ester 23.8 120 IC

* Butyrolactone 98.3 203.9 IIIB

Butyrone 46.1 148.3 II

Butyronitrile 24.4 117.2 IC

Camphor 65.5 203.9 IIIA

Camphor Oil (Light) 47.2 175.0 II

Caproaldehyde 32.2 131.1 IC

Caprylaldehyde 51.7 168.3 II

Caprylic Aldehyde 51.7 168.3 II

Caprylyl Chloride 82.2 195.5 IIIA



* Carbitol 93.9 202.2 IIIB

Carbolic Acid 79.4 181.9 IIIA

Carbon Bisulfide -30.0 46.1 IB

Carbon Disulfide -30.0 46.1 IB

Chlorex 55.0 178.3 II

Chlorobenzaldehyde 87.8 213.9 IIIA

Chlorobenzene 27.8 132.2 IC

Chlorobenzol 27.8 132.2 IC

Chlorobenzotrifluoride 47.2 138.9 II

Chlorobutadiene -20.0 58.9 IB

Chlorobutane -19.4 61.7 IB

Chloroethane -50.0 12.3 IA

Chloroethanol 60.0 128.9 II

Chloroethyl Acetate 53.9 145.0 II

Chloroethyl Alcohol 60.0 128.9 II

Chloroethyl Benzene 63.9 184.4 IIIA

Chlorohexane 35.0 132.2 IC

Chloroisopropyl Alcohol 51.7 132.8 II

Chloronitroethane 56.1 173.3 II

Chloronitropropane 62.2 140.5 IIIA

Chloropentane 12.8 106.1 IB

Chlorophenol 63.9 175.0 IIIA

Chloropropane -17.8 47.2 IB

Chloropropanol 51.7 132.8 II



Chloropropene -31.7 45.0 IB

Chloropropionitrile 75.5 176.0 IIIA

Chloropropyl Alcohol 51.7 132.8 II

Chloropropylene -20.0 22.8 IA

Chloropropylene Oxide 31.1 115.0 IC

Chlorotoluene 52.2 160.0 II

Cinnamene 31.1 146.1 IC

Citral 90.5 91.7 IIIA

Cleaning Solvent 59.0 181.0 II

Coal Tar or Creosote 73.9 200.0 IIIA

Cresol 81.1 191.1 IIIA

Cresyl Acetate 90.5 100.0 IIIA

Cresylic Acid 81.1 191.1 IIIA

Crotonaldehyde 12.8 102.2 IB

Crotonic Acid 87.8 188.9 IIIA

Crotonic Aldehyde 12.8 102.2 IB

* Crotononitrile 100.0 110.0 IIIB

Crotonyl Alcohol 27.2 121.1 IC

Cumene 35.6 152.2 IC

Cumene Hydroperoxide 56.0 100.0 II

Cumol 35.6 152.2 IC

Cyclododecatriene 71.1 231.1 IIIA

Cycloheptane 21.1 118.9 IB

Cyclohexane -20.0 81.7 IB



Cyclohexanethiol 43.3 157.2 II

Cyclohexanol 67.8 161.1 IIIA

Cyclohexanone 43.9 156.1 II

Cyclohexene -6.7 82.8 IB

Cyclohexenone 33.9 156.1 IC

Cyclohexyl Acetate 57.8 176.6 II

Cyclohexyl Chloride 32.2 142.2 IC

Cyclohexyl Formate 51.1 162.2 II

Cyclohexylamine 31.1 134.4 IC

Cyclohexylmethane -3.9 101.1 IB

Cyclohexyltrichlorosilane 91.1 207.8 IIIA

Cyclooctadiene 35.0 151.1 IC

Cyclopentane -6.7 49.3 IB

Cyclopentanol 51.1 141.1 II

Cyclopentanone 26.1 130.5 IC

Cyclopentene -6.7 43.9 IB

Cymene 47.2 176.1 II

Decaborane 80.0 213.3 IIIA

Decahydronaphthalene 53.9 187.2 II

Decalin 53.9 187.2 II

Decane 46.1 173.9 II

Decanol 82.2 229.0 IIIA

Decene -10.6 172.2 IB

Decyl Alcohol 82.2 229.0 IIIA



Decylmercaptan 87.8 210.0 IIIA

Denatured Alcohol 15.6 79.4 IB

Diacetone 64.4 164.4 IIIA

Diacetone Alcohol 64.4 164.4 IIIA

Diallyl Ether -6.7 95.0 IB

Diaminobutane 51.7 142.8 II

Diamyl Ether 57.2 190.0 II

Diamyl Sulfide 85.0 170.0 IIIA

Diamylamine 51.1 180.0 II

Diamylene 47.8 150.0 II

Dibutoxymethane 60.0 165.5 II

Dibutyl Ether 25.0 141.1 IC

Dibutyl Phosphite 48.9 115.0 II

Dibutyl Tartrate 90.5 343.3 IIIA

Dibutylamine 47.2 161.1 II

Dibutylaminoethanol 93.3 222.2 IIIA

Dichloro Butene 26.7 127.8 IC

Dichloro Nitro Ethane 75.5 123.9 IIIA

Dichloro Nitro Propane 66.1 142.8 IIIA

Dichloroacetyl Chloride 66.1 107.2 IIIA

Dichlorobenzene 66.1 180.0 IIIA

Dichlorobutadiene 10.0 100.0 IB

Dichlorobutane 52.2 155.0 II

Dichlorodimethyisilane 21.1 70.0 IB



Dichloroethane 13.3 83.5 IB

Dichloroethanoyl Chloride 66.1 107.2 IIIA

Dichloroethyl Ether 55.0 177.8 II

Dichloroethylene -28.3 31.7 IA

Dichloroisopropyl Ether 85.0 187.2 IIIA

Dichloropentane 41.1 130.0 II

Dichloropropane 15.6 96.1 IB

Dichloropropanol 73.9 174.4 IIIA

Dichloropropene 15.0 93.9 IB

Dichlorosilane -37.2 8.3 IA

Dichloro-2-Butane 26.7 127.8 IC

Dicyclohexyl 73.8 238.7 IIIA

Dicyclopentadiene 32.2 127.8 IC

* Diethanol Amine 151.7 269.1 IIIB

Diethoxyethane 35.0 122.2 IC

Diethyl Benzene 57.2 183.3 II

Diethyl Butanediamine 46.1 178.9 II

Diethyl Carbinol 32.8 137.8 IC

Diethyl Carbonate 25.0 126.1 IC

Diethyl Ether -45.0 35.0 IA

Diethyl Glycol 35.0 122.2 IC

Diethyl Ketone 12.8 102.8 IB

Diethyl Malonate 93.3 198.9 IIIA

Diethyl Oxide -45.0 35.0 IA



Diethyl Succinate 90.5 216.1 IIIA

Diethyl Tartrate 93.3 280.0 IIIA

Diethylacetaldehyde 21.1 116.7 IB

Diethylamine -22.8 56.7 IB

Diethylamino Ethyl Acrylate 76.0 85.0 IIIA

Diethylamino Propylamine 58.9 169.4 II

Diethylaniline 85.0 216.1 IIIA

Diethylcyclohexane 48.9 173.3 II

Diethylene Diamine 46.1 145.0 II

Diethylene Dioxide 12.2 101.1 IB

Diethylene Glycol Diethyl Ether 82.2 188.9 IIIA

Diethylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether 67.2 162.2 IIIA

Diethylene Glycol Methyl EtherAcetate

82.2 210.0 IIIA

Diethylene Glycol MonobutylEther

77.8 231.1 IIIA

* Diethylene Glycol MonoethylEther

93.9 202.2 IIIB

Diethylethanolamine 60.0 162.2 II

Diethylethylene Diamine 46.1 145.0 II

Diethyllauramide 65.5 166.1 IIIA

Dihexyl 73.9 216.1 IIIA

Dihexyl Ether 76.7 226.6 IIIA

Dihydropyran -17.8 85.5 IB

Diisobutyl Carbinol 73.9 178.3 IIIA

Diisobutyl Ketone 48.9 168.3 II

Diisobutylamine 29.4 133.9 IC



Diisobutylene -5.0 101.1 IB

Diisopropyl -28.9 57.8 IB

Diisopropyl Benzene 76.7 205.0 IIIA

Diisopropyl Ether -27.8 68.9 IB

Diisopropylamine -1.1 83.9 IB

Diisopropylmethanol 48.9 140.0 II

Diisopropyl-ethanolamine 79.4 191.1 IIIA

Diketane 33.9 127.2 IC

Dimethyidichlorosilane 21.1 70.0 IB

Dimethyl Benzene 27.2 138.9 IC

Dimethyl Carbinol 11.7 82.8 IB

Dimethyl Carbonate 18.9 88.9 IB

Dimethyl Chloracetal 43.9 126.1 II

Dimethyl Cyanamide 71.1 160.0 IIIA

Dimethyl Cyclohexane 11.1 120.0 IB

Dimethyl Decalin 84.4 235.0 IIIA

Dimethyl Ethyl Carbinol 19.4 101.7 IB

Dimethyl Furan 7.2 93.3 IB

Dimethyl Hexynol 57.2 150.0 II

Dimethyl Ketone -20.0 56.1 IB

Dimethyl Sulfate 83.3 187.8 IIIA

Dimethyl Sulfide -17.9 37.2 IA

* Dimethyl Sulfoxide 95.0 188.9 IIIB

Dimethylacetamide 70.0 165.5 IIIA



Dimethylamino Ethanol 40.6 133.3 II

Dimethylamino EthylMethacrylate

73.9 97.2 IIIA

Dimethylamino Propionitrile 65.0 170.0 IIIA

Dimethylamino Propylamine 37.8 136.7 IC

Dimethylaniline 62.8 192.8 IIIA

Dimethylbutane -28.9 57.8 IB

Dimethylbutanol 41.1 130.0 II

Dimethylbutyl Acetate 45.0 140.0 II

Dimethylbutylamine 12.8 106.1 IB

Dimethyldioxane 23.9 117.2 IC

Dimethylene Oxide -28.9 10.6 IA

Dimethylethanolamine 40.6 133.3 II

Dimethylformamide 57.8 152.8 II

Dimethylhexane 7.2 113.9 IB

Dimethylhydrazine -15.0 62.8 IB

Dimethylisopropanola-mine 35.0 125.0 IC

Dimethylmorphaline 44.4 146.7 II

Dimethyloctane 55.0 163.9 II

Dimethylpentaldehyde 34.4 145.0 IC

Dimethylpentane -12.2 80.5 IB

Dimethylpiperazine 68.3 165.0 IIIA

Dimethylpyrazine 63.9 155.0 IIIA

Dimethyl-1-Butene -20.0 56.1 IB

Dimethyl-1-Propanol 36.7 113.9 IC



Dimethyl-2-Butene -20.0 72.8 IB

Dimethyl-3-Pentanol 48.9 140.0 II

Dimethyl-4-Heptanone 48.9 168.3 II

Dioctylamine 60.0 169.4 II

Dioxane 12.2 101.1 IB

Dioxolane 1.7 73.9 IB

Dipentane 45.0 170.5 II

* Diphenyl 112.7 253.6 IIIB

Dipropyl Ether 21.1 90.0 IB

Dipropyl Ketone 46.1 148.3 II

Dipropylamine 17.2 109.4 IB

Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether 85.0 190.0 IIIA

Divinyl Acetylene -20.0 83.9 IB

Divinyl Ether -30.0 38.9 IB

Divinylbenzene 76.1 200.0 IIIA

Di-sec-Butylamine 23.9 132.2 IC

Di-tert-Butyl Peroxide 18.3 110.5 IB

Dodecane 73.9 216.1 IIIA

Epichlorohydrin 31.1 115.0 IC

Ethanediol Diformate 93.3 173.9 IIIA

Ethanethiol -17.8 35.0 IA

Ethanol 12.8 78.3 IB

Ethanolamine 85.0 172.2 IIIA

Ethanoyl Chloride 4.4 51.1 IB



Ethoxybenzene 62.8 172.2 IIIA

Ethoxyethyl Acetate 47.2 156.1 II

Ethoxypropanol 37.8 135.0 IC

Ethoxypropionaldehyde 37.8 135.0 IC

Ethyl Acetanilide 52.2 204.4 II

Ethyl Acetate -4.4 77.2 IB

Ethyl Acetoacetate 57.2 180.0 II

Ethyl Acetyl Glycolate 82.2 185.0 IIIA

Ethyl Acrylate 10.0 99.4 IB

Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol) 12.8 78.3 IB

Ethyl Amino Ethanol 71.1 161.1 IIIA

Ethyl Benzoate 87.8 212.2 IIIA

Ethyl Borate 11.1 111.7 IB

Ethyl Bromide -23.0 38.4 IB

Ethyl Bromoacetate 47.8 158.9 II

Ethyl Butyl Carbonal 50.0 135.0 II

Ethyl Butyl Ether 4.4 82.2 IB

Ethyl Butyl Glycol 82.2 196.6 IIIA

Ethyl Butyl Ketone 46.1 148.3 II

Ethyl Butyrate 23.8 120.0 IC

Ethyl Caproate 48.9 167.2 II

Ethyl Caprylate 79.4 207.7 IIIA

Ethyl Carbonate 25.0 126.1 IC

Ethyl Chloride -50.0 12.3 IA



Ethyl Chloroacetate 63.9 146.1 IIIA

Ethyl Chlorocarbonate 16.1 93.9 IB

Ethyl Chloroformate 16.1 93.9 IB

Ethyl Crotonate 2.2 138.9 IB

Ethyl Dichlorosilane -1.1 75.5 IB

Ethyl Dimethyl Methane -51.1 27.8 IA

Ethyl Ester 23.8 120.0 IC

Ethyl Ether -45.0 35.0 IA

Ethyl Formate -20.0 54.4 IB

Ethyl Formate (ortho) 30.0 143.9 IC

Ethyl Isobutyrate 21.1 110.0 IB

Ethyl Lactate 46.1 153.9 II

Ethyl Malonate 93.3 198.9 IIIA

Ethyl Mercaptan -17.8 35.0 IA

Ethyl Methacrylate 20.0 116.7 IB

Ethyl Methanoate -20.0 54.4 IB

Ethyl Methyl Ether -37.2 10.6 IA

Ethyl Methyl Ketone -8.9 80.0 IB

Ethyl Nitrate 10.0 87.8 IB

Ethyl Nitrite -35.0 17.2 IA

Ethyl Oxalate 75.5 186.1 IIIA

Ethyl Oxide -45.0 35.0 IA

Ethyl Phenyl Ether 62.8 172.2 IIIA

* Ethyl Phenyl Ketone 98.9 218.3 IIIB



Ethyl Propenyl Ether -7.2 70.0 IB

Ethyl Propionate 12.2 98.9 IB

Ethyl Propyl Ether -20.0 63.9 IB

Ethyl Propylacrolein 68.3 175.0 IIIA

Ethyl Silicate 51.7 169.8 II

Ethyl Sulfhydrate -17.8 35.0 IA

Ethyl Vinyl Ether < -46 36 IA

Ethylamine -17.8 16.7 IA

Ethylaniline 85.0 205.0 IIIA

Ethylbenzene 21.1 136.1 IB

Ethylbenzol 21.1 136.1 IB

Ethylbutanol 21.1 116.7 IB

Ethylbutyl Acetate 54.4 162.2 II

Ethylbutyl Acrylate 51.7 82.2 II

Ethylbutyl Alcohol 57.2 149.4 II

Ethylbutylamine 17.8 111.1 IB

Ethylbutyraldehyde 21.1 116.7 IB

Ethylcyclohexane 35.0 131.7 IC

Ethylcyclohexylamine 30.0 73.0 IC

Ethylene Dichloride 13.3 83.5 IB

Ethylene Formate 93.3 173.9 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol Butyl Ether 65.5 171.1 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol Dibutyl Ether 85.0 203.9 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol Diethyl Ether 35.0 121.7 IC



Ethylene Glycol Diformate 93.3 173.9 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol Dimethyl Ether -1.6 78.9 IB

Ethylene Glycol Ethylbutyl Ether 82.2 196.6 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol Isopropyl Ether 33.3 142.8 IC

Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether 61.7 171.1 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol Monobutyl EtherAcetate

71.1 191.6 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether 43.3 135.0 II

Ethylene Glycol Monoethyl EtherAcetate

51.1 156.1 II

Ethylene Glycol MonoisobutylEther

57.8 160.0 II

Ethylene Glycol MonomethylEther

38.9 123.9 II

Ethylene Glycol MonomethylEther Acetal

93.3 207.2 IIIA

Ethylene Glycol MonomethylEther Acetate

48.9 145.0 II

Ethylene Glycol MonomethylEther Formal

68.3 201.1 IIIA

Ethylene Oxide -28.9 10.6 IA

Ethylenediamine 33.9 116.1 IC

Ethylenimine -11.1 55.6 IB

Ethylethanolamine 71.1 161.1 IIIA

Ethylethylene Glycol 1.7 97.7 IB

Ethylhexaldehyde 44.4 162.8 II

Ethylhexanol 44.4 162.8 II

Ethylhexyl Acetate 71.1 198.9 IIIA

Ethylhexyl Acrylate 82.2 130.0 IIIA

Ethylhexyl Chloride 60.0 172.8 II



Ethylhexylamine 60.0 169.4 II

Ethylidene Dichloride -5.6 57.8 IB

Ethylisohexanol 70.0 176.6 IIIA

Ethylmorphaline 32.2 137.8 IC

Ethyltrichloro Silane 22.2 97.8 IB

Fluorobenzene -15.0 85.0 IB

Formal -32.2 43.9 IB

Formaldehyde(in 13% methanol) 50.0 101.1 II

Formalin 50.0 101.1 II

Formic Acid 68.9 100.5 IIIA

Formic Acid Butyl Ester 17.8 107.2 IB

Formic Acid Ethyl Ester -20.0 54.4 IB

Formic Acid Methyl Ester -18.9 32.2 IA

Fuel Oil No 1 38 to 72 151 to301

II

Fuel Oil No 2 52 to 96 300 II

Furan 0.0 31.1 IA

Furfural 60.0 161.1 IIIA

Furfuraldehyde 60.0 161.1 IIIA

Furfuran 0.0 31.1 IA

Furfuryl Acetate 85.0 183.3 IIIA

Furfuryl Alcohol 75.0 171.1 IIIA

Furfurylamine 37.2 146.1 IC

Furol 60.0 161.1 IIIA

Fusel Oil 42.8 132.2 II



Gasoline -43 38-204 IA

* Geraniol 100.0 230.0 IIIB

Geranyl Formate 85.0 112.8 IIIA

Glycerin Dichlorohydrin 93.3 182.2 IIIA

Glycidyl Acrylate 60.5 57.2 IIIA

Glycol Diacetate 88.3 190.5 IIIA

Glycol Dichloride 13.3 83.5 IB

Glycol Diformate 93.3 173.9 IIIA

Hendecane 65.0 195.5 IIIA

Heptane -3.9 98.5 IB

Heptanol 60.0 156.1 II

Heptanone 46.1 148.3 II

Heptene 0.0 93.9 IB

Heptylamine 54.4 155.0 II

Heptylene 0.0 93.9 IB

Hexadienal 67.8 170.5 IIIA

Hexadiene -21.1 66.1 IB

Hexahydrobenzene -20.0 81.7 IB

Hexaldehyde 32.2 131.1 IC

Hexalin 67.8 161.1 IIIA

Hexalin Acetate 57.8 176.6 II

Hexamethylene -20.0 81.7 IB

Hexane -21.7 68.9 IB

Hexanol 32.2 131.1 IC



Hexanone 35.0 122.8 IC

Hexene -6.7 63.3 IB

Hexyl Acetate 45.0 140.5 II

Hexyl Alcohol 62.8 155.0 IIIA

Hexyl Chloride 35.0 132.2 IC

Hexyl Ether 76.7 226.6 IIIA

Hexyl Hydride -21.7 68.9 IB

Hexyl Methacrylate 82.2 200.0 IIIA

Hexylamine 29.4 131.7 IC

Hydrochloric Ether -50.0 12.3 IA

Hydroxybutanol 65.6 78.9 IIIA

Hydroxybutyraldehyde 65.6 78.9 IIIA

Iron Carbonyl -15.0 103.0 IB

Isoamyl Acetate 25.0 143.3 IC

Isoamyl Alcohol 42.8 132.2 II

Isoamyl Butyrate 58.9 177.8 II

Isobornyl Acetate 87.8 221.0 IIIA

Isobutyl Acetate 17.8 117.8 IB

Isobutyl Acrylate 30.0 61.7 IC

Isobutyl Alcohol 27.8 107.9 IC

Isobutyl Butyrate 50.0 157.2 II

Isobutyl Carbinol 42.8 132.2 II

Isobutyl Formate 21.1 97.8 IB

Isobutyl Heptyl Ketone 90.5 214.0 IIIA



Isobutyl Isobutyrate 38.3 146.6 II

Isobutyl Vinyl Ether -9.4 83.3 IB

Isobutylamine -9.4 65.5 IB

Isobutylbenzene 55.0 172.8 II

Isobutyraldehyde -18.3 61.1 IB

Isobutyric Acid 55.6 152.2 II

Isobutyric Anhydride 59.4 182.2 II

Isobutyronitrile 8.3 101.7 IB

Isodecaldehyde 85.0 197.2 IIIA

Isoheptane -18.0 90.0 IB

Isohexane -28.9 56.7 IB

Isohexyl Alcohol 46.1 122.2 II

Isooctane 4.4 98.9 IB

Isooctenes -6.7 87.8 IB

* Isooctyl Nitrate 96.1 110.0 IIIB

Isooctyl Vinyl Ether 60.0 175.0 II

Isoooctyl Alcohol 82.2 83.3 IIIA

Isopentaldehyde 8.9 121.1 IB

Isopentane -51.1 27.8 IA

Isophorone 84.4 215.0 IIIA

Isoprene -53.9 33.9 IA

Isopropanol 11.7 82.8 IB

Isopropenyl Acetate 15.6 97.2 IB

Isopropenyl Acetylene -7.2 33.3 IA



Isopropoxypropionitrile 68.3 65.0 IIIA

Isopropyl Acetate 1.7 90.0 IB

Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) 11.7 82.8 IB

* Isopropyl Benzoate 98.9 218.9 IIIB

Isopropyl Carbinol 27.8 107.9 IC

Isopropyl Chloride -32.2 35.0 IA

Isopropyl Ether -27.8 68.9 IB

Isopropyl Ether -9.4 68.5 IB

Isopropyl Formate -5.6 67.2 IB

Isopropyl Lactate 54.4 166.1 II

Isopropyl Methanoate -5.6 67.2 IB

Isopropyl Vinyl Ether -32.2 56.1 IB

Isopropylamine -37.2 31.7 IA

Isopropylbenzene 35.6 152.2 IC

Isovalerone 48.9 168.3 II

Kerosene 43.3 154.4 II

Lactonitrile 77.2 182.8 IIIA

Linalool (Ex Bois de Rose) 71.1 195.0 IIIA

Lynalyl Acetate 85.0 107.8 IIIA

Mercaptoethanol 73.9 157.2 IIIA

Mesityl Oxide 30.6 130.0 IC

Mesitylene 50.0 164.0 II

Metaldehyde 36.1 113.3 IC

Methacrolein 1.7 67.7 IB



Methacrylic Acid 72.2 157.8 IIIA

Methacrylonitrile 1.1 90.0 IB

Methallyl Alcohol 33.3 113.9 IC

Methallyl Chloride -11.7 72.2 IB

Methanol 11.1 64.8 IB

Methoxybenzene 51.6 153.8 II

Methoxybutanol 73.9 161.1 IIIA

Methoxybutyl Acetate 76.7 135.0 IIIA

Methoxybutyraldehyde 60.0 127.8 II

Methoxyethanol 38.9 123.9 II

Methoxyethyl Acrylate 82.2 61.1 IIIA

Methoxypropionitrile 65.0 160.0 IIIA

Methoxypropylamine 32.2 116.1 IC

Methyl Alcohol (Methanol) 11.1 64.8 IB

Methyl Carbonate 18.9 88.9 IB

Methyl Ethyl Ether -37.2 10.6 IA

Methyl Ethyl Ketone -8.9 80.0 IB

Methyl Formate -18.9 32.2 IA

Methyl Isobutyl Carbinol 41.1 130.0 II

Methyl Methacrylate 10.0 101.0 IB

Methylal -32.2 43.9 IB

Methylcyclohexane -3.9 101.1 IB

Methylpropenal 1.7 67.7 IB

Methyl-2-Butanol 19.4 101.7 IB



Monoethanol Amine 93.3 170.5 IIIA

Monoethylamine -17.0 16.6 IA

Naptha 37.7 190.0 IC

* Nonyl Phenol 140.5 300.0 IIIB

Octane 13.3 125.8 IB

Pentane -48.9 36.1 IA

Pentene -17.8 30.0 IA

Phenol 79.4 181.9 IIIA

Propyl Acetate 12.8 101.7 IB

Propyl Chloride -17.8 47.2 IB

Propyl Ether 21.1 90.0 IB

Propylene Dichloride 15.6 96.1 IB

Pyridine 20.0 115.3 IB

Stoddard Solvent 37.7 127.0 IB

Styrene 31.1 146.1 IC

Tetrahydrofuran 0.0 66.1 IB

Toluene 4.4 110.4 IB

Trichloropropane 82.2 156.1 IIIA

* Triethanol Amine 179.4 360.0 IIIB

Triethylamine -28.9 89.5 IB

Trimethylbenzene 50.0 164.0 II

Trimethyl-1-pentene -5.0 101.1 IB

Turpentine 35.0 149.0 IC

Vinyl Allyl Ether 20.0 67.2 IB



Vinyl Butyl Ether -9.4 94.4 IB

Vinyl Isobutyl Ether -9.4 83.3 IB

Vinyl Isooctyl Ether 60.0 175.0 II

Vinyl Isopropyl Ether -32.2 56.1 IB

Vinylidene Chloride -28.3 31.7 IA

VM & P 37.7 190.0 IC

Xylene 27.2 138.9 IC

* Class IIIB liquids are not currently covered in the Fire Code.



























ofm -- commentary on part 4 · on september 9, 2000, part 4 was amended by ontario regulation...

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