NFPA 1, UFC, requires dumpsters over 40 gallons in size have lids.  If the lid is plastic it has to meet the HRR limit of 300 kw/sq meter in ASTM E 1354, Test Method for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter, or NFPA 271, Standard Method of Test for Heat and Visible Smoke Release Rates for Materials and Products Using an Oxygen Consumption Calorimeter.

My question: does anyone know of a manufacturer of plastic lids that meet this criteria?  We are looking for ones that fit 57 cu ft size dumpsters.  And yes they are inside the building.

On dumpsters that large? Nope. I don't know what NFPA/UFC 1 says but under the IFC, Section 304.3.2 would permit a noncombustible lid on any container with a volume > 5.33 cubic feet (40 gallons).

If these dumpsters have been recently relocated inside of a building, they are classified as an accessory use and require separation in accordance with the 2006 IBC.

What section of the IBC requires separation?  I have not been able to find it.  The IFC seems to allow them.  Here is what it says.

304.3.3 Capacity exceeding 1.5 cubic yards.
Dumpsters and containers with an individual capacity of 1.5 cubic yards (40.5 cubic feet) (1.15 m3) or more shall not be stored in buildings or placed within 5 feet (1524 mm) of combustible walls, openings or combustible roof eave lines.
Exceptions:
1. Dumpsters or containers in areas protected by an approved automatic sprinkler system installed throughout in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1, 903.3.1.2 or 903.3.1.3.
2. Storage in a structure shall not be prohibited where the structure is of Type I or Type IIA construction, located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from other buildings and used exclusively for dumpster or container storage.

Based on the above, you can have dumpsters in the building if the building is sprinklered.  No separation is mentioned.  Also, the IFC has no specific criteria for plastic lids.  Only that they have to be approved by the code official.

My mistake - I was looking a particular code change regarding this subject, not the entire section. If the building is sprinklered, you don't need comply with ASTM E 1354.

FYI, the 2009 IFC is now aligned with NFPA 1/UFC. The IFC now applies the same criteria found in NFPA 1/UFC.

Sorry to cause any confusion.

 

Thanks for the info on the new IFC. Which brings us back to the original question: Does anyone make a plastic lid meeting the HRR ratings in the code?   

I never found one. Rubbermaid makes carts with polymers that can pass the 300 kw/M^2 limit but they don't make dumpster covers based on a couple of surveys of their web site. A couple of other manufacturers make similar carts but I'm not aware of anyone making them.

Did some surfing on the web and found one company that makes plastic (fiberglass) dumpsters meeting ASTM E1354 fire test.  That is the claim on the web site and should be verified by test report.  Mclure Industries makes these and they have lids that are fusible link actuated.

Was unable to find any company that makes just the lid, which is what we wanted to retro-fit our metal dumpsters.  They may exist out there but I could not locate them.  

Thanks for all the replies.