Hazardous Materials Inventory & Storage in Research Building

Introduction:

Maximum Allowable Quantities (MAQs) are critical benchmarks in fire safety regulations, specifying the maximum amount of hazardous materials permitted within a given area. These thresholds serve as crucial guidelines for handling flammable substances, ensuring that the quantities present are manageable in the event of a fire or other emergencies. By establishing MAQs, authorities aim to mitigate the risks associated with storage and handling of dangerous materials, safeguarding both property and lives. Adherence to these limits not only fosters a safer working environment but also facilitates effective emergency response strategies, minimizing the potential for catastrophic incidents.   

Regulations:

The storage of flammable and combustible liquids, solids and gases are regulated by local, state and federal fire and safety regulations.

The Massachusetts Building Code 8th Edition and 527 CMR 1.00: Chapters 60 & 66 of the Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire safety Code, which regulates the storage of flammable and combustible materials are based on occupancies, specific locations inside a building, fire protection systems and designs, and on the chemical and physical properties of the materials.

  • 780 CMR 8th Edition – Chapter 3:00 – Use and Occupancy Classifications – Table 307.7(1)
  • 780 CMR 8th Edition – Chapter 4.00 – Special Detailed Requirements Based on Use and Occupancy – Table 414.22

Boston Fire Prevention Code Article XVI further elaborates on the storage and quantities of flammable and combustible liquids within the city of Boston.

Definitions of Hazardous Substances and Storage Requirements

Flammable and Combustible Liquids

The classifications of flammable and combustible liquids below help regulatory authorities, emergency responders, and industries to assess the potential fire hazards associated with different types of combustible liquids and implement appropriate safety measures to mitigate risks.

Flammable liquids are classified as Class I liquids. Class I liquids are divided into three classes as follows:

  • Class IA shall include liquids having flashpoints below 73 (22.8 ) and having a boiling point below 100 ℉ (37.8 ℃). 
  • Class IB shall include liquids having flashpoints below 73 (22.8 ) and having a boiling point at or above 100 ℉ (37.8 ℃). 
  • Class IC shall include liquids having flashpoints at or above 73 (22.8 ) and having a boiling point below 100 ℉ (37.8 ℃). 

Combustible liquids are classified into three main categories based on their flash points and boiling points, each posing varying degrees of fire risk.

  • Class II Combustible Liquids: This category comprises liquids with flash points above 100°F (37.8°C) and below 140°F (60°C). These liquids present moderate fire hazards and typically include substances such as diesel fuel, heating oils, and motor oils. While they are less volatile than Class I liquids, they can still ignite under certain conditions and require careful handling and storage.
  • Class IIIA Combustible Liquids: Class IIIA liquids have flash points at or above 140°F (60°C) and below 200°F (93.3°C). They are characterized by lower fire risks compared to Class I and II liquids but can still pose significant hazards if mishandled. Examples of Class IIIA liquids include kerosene, mineral spirits, and some types of hydraulic fluids.
  • Class IIIB Combustible LiquidsThis category includes liquids with flash points at or above 200°F (93.3°C). Class IIIB liquids are the least flammable among combustible liquids, presenting minimal fire risks under normal conditions. However, they can still contribute to fire spread if ignited in large quantities. Common examples of Class IIIB liquids include cooking oils, lubricating oils, and certain types of waxes.
Storage of Flammables
  • Only store flammable liquids in a specially equipped flammable-safe refrigerator or flammables cabinet
  • Keep away from ignition sources
  • Keep fire extinguishing and spill control equipment readily available.
  • For flammable metals, have a Class-D fire extinguisher available.  See “fire extinguishers” for more information.
Acids
  • Store large bottles of acids on low shelves or on trays in acid cabinets or a cabinet marked “corrosives”
  • Segregate oxidizing acids from organic acids, flammable and combustible materials.
  • Segregate acids from bases, active metals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and other incompatible materials.
  • Use bottle carriers or a cart to transporting acid bottles.
  • Have spill control pillows or acid neutralizers available in the event of a spill. Do not use bases to neutralize acid spill.
Bases
  • Segregate bases from acids and other incompatible materials.
  • Store large bottles of liquid bases on trays in a cabinet marked “Bases” or “Corrosives”.
  • Store solutions of inorganic hydroxides in polyethylene containers.
  • Have spill control pillows or caustic neutralizers available for caustic spills. Do not use acids to neutralize base spills.
Corrosives

Corrosive substances are chemicals capable of causing damage to living tissue upon contact, as well as corroding materials such as metals and other surfaces. They typically have a low pH (acidic) or high pH (alkaline) and can cause severe burns or tissue damage. Examples include strong acids like sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid, as well as strong bases like sodium hydroxide.

Cryogenics

Cryogenics refers to substances that exist in a cryogenic state, posing unique risks due to their low temperature properties. These substances can cause severe frostbite or cold burns upon contact with skin or other materials due to rapid freezing. Additionally, cryogenic liquids, such as liquid nitrogen and liquid helium, can rapidly vaporize when exposed to ambient temperatures, creating large volumes of gas that can displace oxygen and pose asphyxiation hazards in poorly ventilated areas. Moreover, certain cryogenic substances may react violently with incompatible materials or ignite flammable materials upon contact.

Oxidizers

Oxidizers are substances that provide oxygen or another oxidizing agent, promoting or sustaining combustion when combined with a fuel and an ignition source. They can intensify fires and explosions by releasing oxygen and supporting rapid combustion. Examples include hydrogen peroxide, potassium permanganate, and chlorates.

Peroxide-Forming Chemicals
  • Date the container when received and when opened.
  • Store in airtight containers in a dark, cool, dry area.
  • Check container for formation of peroxides, as needed, using appropriate indicator strips.
  • Dispose of peroxide forming chemicals on or before expiration date or one year after opening, whichever is first.
Toxics

Toxic substances are chemicals that can cause harm or injury to living organisms, including humans, through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact. They may have acute or chronic effects on health, ranging from irritation and nausea to organ damage or even death. Examples include pesticides, heavy metals like lead and mercury, and certain industrial chemicals.

Unstable Reactives

unstable reactives are materials that possess inherent instability and can undergo rapid or spontaneous chemical reactions, often leading to the release of heat, gases, or violent explosions. These substances are sensitive to various factors such as temperature, pressure, shock, or exposure to incompatible materials, and may react unpredictably or explosively under certain conditions.

Water Reactives

Water-reactive substances are materials that react vigorously with water or moisture to release heat, flammable gases, or hazardous by-products. This reaction can result in fires, explosions, or the release of toxic gases. Examples include alkali metals like sodium and potassium, as well as certain metal hydrides and metal halides.

Hazardous Material Storage Maximum Allowable Quantities (MAQs)

Building control areas:  Are ares designated within the building where the storage and handling of hazardous materials, including combustible substances, are regulated according to specific safety standards. Maximum Allowable Quantities (MAQs) play a pivotal role within these areas, delineating the maximum permitted amounts of hazardous materials that can be stored or used within a given space. Building control areas are essential for ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations and minimizing the risk of accidents or emergencies. By establishing clear guidelines for the quantity and storage of hazardous materials, these areas facilitate safer working environments and enhance emergency response preparedness. Effective management of MAQs within building control areas is paramount in safeguarding property, protecting lives, and promoting overall building resilience against fire hazards.

Fire Barriers: These barriers are structural components or elements implemented within a building to prevent the spread of fire and smoke from one area to another, thereby containing the fire and allowing occupants more time to evacuate safely

Boston University EHS in coordination with BU Facilities Management and Planning has designated building control areas within research buildings to monitor compliance to MAQ regulations of hazardous materials.  Please see chart below which details the MAQs for each class of hazardous substance based on the building floor level.

NOTE: The head of the fire department may limit the quantity of flammable or combustible liquids, flammable solids, or flammable gases that may be kept, stored, manufactured or sold under the authority of the permit to less than that specified in the table, where in his opinion, conditions are such as to warrant his restricting the amount of such fluids, solids or gases.

Additional Resources: