Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
(OP)
I cannot see in any NFPA standard where it is referenced the spacing requirements between the fire water tank (and pump house) and the storage tanks. Do we take it as an important building on the Same Property as highlighted in NFPA 30 Table 22.4.1.1?





RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
RE: Space Between Fire Tank and Product Tank
API 2001 (API RC for refineries) does not tell a number it says that the layout of the plant has to analyse all the risks to be safe water source shall be as far from risks as possible.
I think that if you use NFPA 30/NFPA 20 distances it will be a risky minimum but I would include, revision of this distances considering dikes, walls, oil product pipes, etc. If your water tank/pump is donwind or downward natural drain direction in case of a spill the NFPA 30/20 distance will not work.
From NFPA 20 (2004)
5.12.1.2 Outdoor Fire Pump Units.
5.12.1.2.1 Fire pump units located outdoors shall be located at least 15.3 m (50 ft) away from any exposing building ( i´m sure a product tank cannot be interpreted as an exposing building).
5.12.1.2.2 Outdoor installations also shall be required to be provided with protection against possible interruption in accordance with 5.12.1.
5.12.1* General Requirements. The fire pump, driver, and controller shall be protected against possible interruption of service through damage caused by explosion, fire, flood, earthquake, rodents, insects, windstorm, freezing, vandalism, and other adverse conditions.
NFPA 22
4.2 Location of Tanks.
4.2.1 The location of tanks shall be such that the tank and structure are not subject to fire exposure.
4.2.1.1 If lack of yard room makes this impracticable, the exposed steel work shall be suitably fireproofed or shall be protected by open sprinklers (see A.12.1.1).
4.2.1.2 Fireproofing, where necessary, shall be provided for steelwork within 6.1 m (20 ft) of exposures, combustible buildings or windows, and doors from which fire might issue.