violently from internal pressure when heated in a fire. Upon explosion, these items are fireballs
that become rocketing projectiles that may leave a trail of burning liquid. Aerosol products have
been directly involved in and sometimes responsible for extensive, costly warehouse fires.
C. Basic Requirements. Flammable storage areas at facilities include detached flammable
liquid warehouses and areas within general purpose warehouses that have been modified to make
them acceptable. Flammable liquids in containers will be stored in pallets or pallet racks subject
to the quantities and height limitations prescribed in 29 CFR 1910.106. Single or double storage
racks will be utilized. Every inside storage room must be provided with either a gravity or
mechanical exhaust ventilation system, having complete change of air within the room at least
six times per hour.
1. Outdoor storage of flammable liquid products in metal drums is not recommended. The
risk associated with a pressure buildup in the drums due to thermal loading from the sun, and the
likelihood of subsequent rupture, or drum failure due to corrosion or handling, creates a
significant spill containment and environmental hazard. The cost of cleanup and negative public
reaction to hazardous materials spills far exceeds the benefits of outdoor storage.
2. Detached flammable liquids warehouses or areas within general purpose warehouses
modified for the storage of flammables should include the protective features for hazardous
materials storage identified in the reference given in paragraph 4.7 with additional consideration
given to the following:
3. Aerosol Can Storage: Aerosol cans should be stored in a room separate from other
flammables if space permits. A barrier should separate aerosol cans from other flammables, and
it should be capable of containing aerosol cans that can become self-propelled projectiles and
airborne sources of ignition. If aerosol cans must be stored in the same area with other
flammables, then a wire mesh, expanded metal, or chain-link type of material should be used as a
floor-to-ceiling or completely surrounding cage type barrier. Personnel access/egress must be
addressed in accordance with NFPA 101, Life Safety Code. If access through the aerosol can
barrier is required by MHE to service pallet racks, then a self-closing gate should be used to
maintain the effectiveness of the barrier.
D. Applicable HCCs. The following HCCs should be stored in DoD storage type F:
1. F1, Flammable Liquid, Packing Group I, OSHA IA.
2. F2, Flammable Liquid, Packing Group II, OSHA IB.
3. F3, Flammable Liquid, Packing Group III, OSHA IC.
4. F4, Flammable Liquid, Packing Group III, OSHA II.
5. F5, Flammable and Poison.
6. F6, Flammable Liquid and Corrosive, Acidic.
4-12
