B. In developing the current system of identification by transportation placards and labels,
terminology such as compatibility and reactivity has been considered. However, these terms
should be used with extreme caution since so many variables are involved. Generally, contact
between incompatible materials will produce a reaction such as fire, explosion, polymerization,
boiling or spattering, severe heat, or the release of poisons or hazardous gases. The matter is
made even more complex by the fact that reactivity of chemicals with the same molecular
formula may differ because they possess different structures. The unpredictability and
complexity of the hazard must be understood when planning and allocating storage facilities.
The following examples are presented for information:
1. Certain chemicals may have the same molecular formula but be assigned different hazard
classes when offered for transportation because the DOT regulation is open to interpretation in
some cases.
2. Varying interpretations of regulations, or sometimes conflicting regulations published by
different agencies, may result in the same chemical being classified in different hazard classes for
purposes of transportation further complicating the problem of assuring that incompatible
hazardous materials are properly segregated in storage. For example, one manufacturer has
shipped 110-gallon containers of p-toluidine as NA1993, combustible liquid, n.o.s., or as IMO
Division 6.1, poison, for export via ocean going vessels. On the other hand, another has shipped
the same material as a nonregulated solid. Still another company has simply described the
material as a combustible liquid (OSHA-regulated class III).
C. Storage areas shall be arranged in a manner that facilitates manual (4-foot aisles) and/or
MHE (10-foot aisles) access and handling, maintains stability, allows inspections, and promotes
good housekeeping.
4.6 Types of Storage Facilities
A. The definitions applicable to types of storage facilities are found in the Joint Service Manual
for Storage and Materials Handling (TM 38-400/NAVSUP PUB 572/AFJMAN 23-210/MCO
4450.14/DLAM 4145.12) and include:
General Purpose Warehouse
Controlled Humidity (CH)
Refrigeration
Hazardous Materials Facility
Dry tank
Shed
Transitory
Above-ground Magazine
Earth-covered Magazine
Nontraditional Warehouse
Open Storage Space
B. Within facilities, two other defined areas are required:
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