Fire Hazard Classification?

[SCEngr1]

For a 10'x12' automotive paint mixing room (closed cap system), can we provide the one-hour fire barrier between this room and the retail space WITHOUT installing an automatic sprinkler system?

Also, how do you determine the "Fire Hazard Classification"?

 

[stookeyfpe]

SCE

It depends on the amount of flammable and combustible liquids you are storing and the occupancy classification.

Also, tell us a little more about the building. I understand it has retail space and a paint mixing room? Are they doing automotive repair?

Is the building protected by automatic sprinklers?

 

[SCEngr1]

This is a paint storage room with the ability to mix some different colors in a closed mixing device. They sell the custom colored paint to automotive paint shops for their use.

The retail space is part of leased space in an existing strip mall. The existing retail space and strip mall does not have an automatic sprinkler system.

 

[cdafd]

what brand and year fire code is this goverened by

 

[SCEngr1]

The IBC 2003 code is in effect by the local government.

MSDS sheets state the following:

- Paint, Flammable Liquids UN 1263
- Flash Point (closed cap): -4 to 160 F
- Approx. flammable limits: 0.8% - 16%
- V.O.C. (lbs per gal.): 0.0 - 7.5
- when heated above the flash point, emits flammable vapors which, when mixed with air, can burn or be explosive.

 

[stookeyfpe]

So this is a paint mixing room and its located in a nonsprinklered mall.

Based on your explanation your lease space is most likely a Group M occupancy.

Using the 2006 International Fire Code you are limited to a maximum allowable quantity of 120 gallons of Class IB & IC Flammable Liquids. If your client can maintain the quantities below this amount, no separation from the paint mixing room and the remainder of the building is required.

You can increase the quantity by 100% if the flammable liquids are stored in cabinets.

If your client needs more flammable liquids, one can construct up to four control areas. These are individual areas separated from the remainder of the building by a minimum 1-hour fire barrier.

If the client needs even more storage, I would recommend moving the bulk of the storage outside and using a hazardous materials locker designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 30.