What is the maximum volume of Class I, Class II, and Class III A liquids allowed to be stored in an individual storage cabinet?

What is the maximum volume of Class I, Class II, and Class III A liquids allowed to be stored in an individual storage cabinet?
A . 80 gal (303 L)
B . 100 gal (379 L)
C . 120 gal (460 L)
D . 140 gal (530 L)

View Answer

Answer: C

Explanation:

The maximum volume of flammable and combustible liquids permitted in an individual storage cabinet is addressed by NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code.

Specifically:

Class I liquids are flammable liquids with flashpoints below 100°F (37.8°C).

Class II and IIIA liquids are combustible liquids with higher flashpoints but still pose significant fire hazards when improperly stored.

According to NFPA 30, Section 9.5.2, the maximum allowable quantity of Class I, II, and IIIA liquids in a storage cabinet is 120 gallons (460 liters).

Why 120 gallons?

The 120-gallon limit is determined based on:

The need to minimize fire risk and contain potential ignition sources.

Storage cabinets are designed to limit vapor emissions and resist fire exposure for a minimum duration (e.g., 10 minutes per OSHA standards).

Additional Considerations:

Cabinets must meet construction requirements outlined in NFPA 30, Chapter 9 (e.g., self-closing doors, ventilation, and fire resistance).

Exceeding the 120-gallon limit would require additional fire safety measures or a different storage approach (e.g., a flammable liquid storage room).

Reference: NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, Section 9.5.2

OSHA 1910.106(d)(3): Storage requirements for flammable and combustible liquids.