N.Y.C. Admin. Code § BC 415: Section BC 415: Groups H-1, H-2, H-3, H-4 and H-5

415.1 Scope.

The provisions of Sections 415.1 through 415.11 shall apply to the storage and use of hazardous materials in excess of the maximum allowable quantities per control area listed in Section 307.1. Buildings and structures with an occupancy in Group H shall also comply with the applicable provisions of the New York City Fire Code and Section 414 of this code including, but not limited to, location and installation provisions.

415.2 Definitions.

The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:

CONTINUOUS GAS DETECTION SYSTEM.

DETACHED BUILDING.

EMERGENCY CONTROL STATION.

EXHAUSTED ENCLOSURE.

FABRICATION AREA.

FLAMMABLE VAPORS OR FUMES.

GAS CABINET.

GAS ROOM.

HAZARDOUS PRODUCTION MATERIAL (HPM).

HPM FLAMMABLE LIQUID.

HPM ROOM.

IMMEDIATELY DANGEROUS TO LIFE AND HEALTH (IDLH).

LIQUID.

LIQUID STORAGE ROOM.

LIQUID USE, DISPENSING AND MIXING ROOM.

LOWER FLAMMABLE LIMIT (LFL).

NORMAL TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE (NTP).

PHYSIOLOGICAL WARNING THRESHOLD LEVEL.

SERVICE CORRIDOR.

SOLID.

STORAGE, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.

USE (MATERIAL).

WORKSTATION.

415.3 Automatic fire detection systems.

Group H occupancies shall be provided with an automatic fire detection system in accordance with Section 907.2.

415.4 Automatic sprinkler system.

Group H occupancies shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system in accordance with Section 903.2.5.

415.5 Emergency alarms.

Emergency alarms for the detection and notification of an emergency condition in Group H occupancies shall be provided as set forth herein.

415.5.1 Storage.

An approved manual emergency alarm system shall be provided in buildings, rooms or areas used for storage of hazardous materials. Emergency alarm-initiating devices shall be installed outside of each interior exit or exit access door of storage buildings, rooms or areas. Activation of an emergency alarm-initiating device shall sound a local alarm to alert occupants of an emergency situation involving hazardous materials.

415.5.2 Dispensing, use and handling.

Where hazardous materials having a hazard ranking of 3 or 4 in accordance with NFPA 704 are transported through corridors, interior exit stairways or ramps, or exit passageways, there shall be an emergency telephone system, a local manual alarm station or an approved alarm-initiating device at not more than 150-foot (45 720 mm) intervals and at each exit and exit access doorway throughout the transport route. The signal shall be relayed to an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or constantly attended on-site location and shall initiate a local audible alarm.

415.5.3 Supervision.

Emergency alarm systems shall be supervised by an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or shall initiate an audible and visual signal at a constantly attended on-site location.

415.5.4 Emergency alarm systems.

Emergency alarm systems shall be provided with emergency power in accordance with Section 2702.

415.6 Fire separation distance.

Group H occupancies shall be located on property in accordance with the other provisions of this chapter. In Groups H-2 and H-3, not less than 25 percent of the perimeter wall of the occupancy shall be an exterior wall.

Exceptions:

1. Liquid use, dispensing and mixing rooms having a floor area of not more than 500 square feet (46.5 m

2

) need not be located on the outer perimeter of the building where they are in accordance with the New York City Fire Code and NFPA 30.

2. Liquid storage rooms having a floor area of not more than 1,000 square feet (93 m

2

) need not be located on the outer perimeter where they are in accordance with the New York City Fire Code and NFPA 30.

3. Spray paint booths that comply with the New York City Fire Code need not be located on the outer perimeter.

415.6.1 Group H occupancy minimum fire separation distance.

Regardless of any other provisions, buildings containing Group H occupancies shall be set back to the minimum fire separation distance as set forth in Sections 415.6.1.1 through 415.6.1.4. Distances shall be measured from the walls enclosing the occupancy to lot lines, including those on a public way. Distances to assumed lot lines established for the purpose of determining exterior wall and opening protection are not to be used to establish the minimum fire separation distance for buildings on sites where explosives are manufactured or used when separation is provided in accordance with the quantity distance tables specified for explosive materials in the New York City Fire Code.

415.6.1.1 Group H-1.

Group H-1 occupancies shall be set back not less than 75 feet (22 860 mm) and not less than required by the New York City Fire Code.

Exceptions:

1. Fireworks manufacturing buildings separated in accordance with NFPA 1124.

2. Buildings containing the following materials when separated in accordance with Table 415.6.1 of this code:

2.1. Organic peroxides, unclassified detonable.

2.2. Unstable reactive materials Class 4.

2.3. Unstable reactive materials, Class 3 detonable.

2.4. Detonable pyrophoric materials.

415.6.1.2 Group H-2.

Group H-2 occupancies shall be set back not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) where the area of the occupancy exceeds 1,000 square feet (93 m

2

), and it is not required to be located in a detached building.

415.6.1.3 Groups H-2 and H-3.

Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies shall be set back not less than 50 feet (15 240 mm) where a detached building is required (see Table 415.6.2).

415.6.1.4 Explosive materials.

Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies containing materials with explosive characteristics shall be separated as required by the New York City Fire Code. Where separations are not specified, the distances required shall not be less than the distances required by Table 415.6.1.

Table 415.6.1 Minimum Separation Distances for Buildings Containing Explosives

f

Quantity of Explosives

a, d

Minimum Distance (feet)

 Lot lines

b

and inhabited buildings

c

Separation of magazines

e

Pounds over

Pounds not over

Barricaded

Unbarricaded

0

5

70

140

12

5

10

90

180

16

10

20

110

220

20

20

30

125

250

22

30

40

140

280

24

40

50

150

300

28

50

75

170

340

30

75

100

190

380

32

100

125

200

400

36

125

150

215

430

38

150

200

235

470

42

200

250

255

510

46

250

300

270

540

48

300

400

295

590

54

400

500

320

640

58

500

600

340

680

62

600

700

355

710

64

700

800

375

750

66

800

900

390

780

70

900

1,000

400

800

72

For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

a. The number of pounds of explosives listed is the number of pounds of trinitrotoluene (TNT) or the equivalent pounds of other explosive.

b. The distance listed is the distance to lot line, including lot lines at public ways.

c. For the purpose of this table, an inhabited building is any building on the same tax lot that is regularly occupied by people. Where two or more buildings containing explosives or magazines are located on the tax lot, each building or magazine shall comply with the minimum distances specified from inhabited buildings and, in addition, they shall be separated from each other by not less than the distance shown for "Separation of magazines", except that the quantity of explosive materials contained in detonator buildings or magazines shall govern in regard to the spacing of said detonator buildings or magazines from buildings or magazines containing other explosive materials. If any two or more buildings or magazines are separated from each other by less than the specified "Separation of magazines" distances, then such two or more buildings or magazines, as a group, shall be considered as one building or magazine, and the total quantity of explosive materials stored in such group shall be treated as if the explosive were in a single building or magazine located on the site of any building or magazine of the group, and shall comply with the minimum distance specified from other magazines or inhabited buildings.

d. Storage of explosives in a quantity exceeding 1,000 pounds in one magazine is prohibited.

e. Magazine is a building or structure, other than an operating building, approved for storage of explosive materials. Portable or mobile magazines not exceeding 120 square feet (11 m

2

) in area need not comply with the requirements of this code, however, all magazines shall comply with the New York City Fire Code.

f. This table shall not apply to the temporary storage incidental to transportation.

415.6.2 Detached buildings for Group H-1, H-2 or H-3 occupancy.

The storage or use of hazardous materials in excess of those amounts listed in Table 415.6.2 shall be in accordance with the applicable provisions of Sections 415.7 and 415.8

Table 415.6.2 Detached Building Required

A Detached Building Is Required When the Quantity of Material Exceeds That Listed Herein

Material

Class

Solids and Liquids (tons)

a, b

Gases (cubic feet)

a, b

Explosives

Division 1.1 Division 1.2 Division 1.3 Division 1.4 Division 1.4c  Division 1.5 Division 1.6

Maximum Allowable Quantity Maximum Allowable Quantity Maximum Allowable Quantity Maximum Allowable Quantity 1 Maximum Allowable Quantity Maximum Allowable Quantity

Not Applicable

Oxidizers

Class 4

Maximum Allowable Quantity

Maximum Allowable Quantity

Unstable (reactives) detonable

Class 3 or 4

Maximum Allowable Quantity

Maximum Allowable Quantity

Oxidizer, liquids and solids

Class 3 Class 2

1,200 2,000

Not Applicable Not Applicable

Organic peroxides

Detonable Class I Class II Class III

Maximum Allowable Quantity Maximum Allowable Quantity 25 50

Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable Not Applicable

Unstable (reactives) nondetonable

Class 3 Class 2

1 25

2,000 10,000

Water reactives

Class 3 Class 2

1 25

Not Applicable Not Applicable

Pyrphoric gases

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

2,000

For SI: 1 ton = 906 kg, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m

3

, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.

a. For materials that are detonable, the distance to other buildings or lot lines shall be as specified in Table 415.6.1 based on trinitrotoluene (TNT) equivalence of the material. For materials classified as explosives, see the New York City Fire Code. Unclassified detonable organic peroxides, detonable pyrophoric materials, detonable unstable (reactive) materials and detonable water-reactive materials shall be considered as explosives for the purposes of storage.

b. "Maximum Allowable Quantity" means the maximum allowable quantity per control area set forth in Table 307.1(1).

c. Limited to Division 1.4 materials and articles, including articles packaged for shipment, that are not regulated as an explosive under Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF) regulations or unpackaged articles used in process operations that do not propagate a detonation or deflagration between articles, provided the net explosive weight of individual articles does not exceed 1 pound.

415.6.2.1 Wall and opening protection.

Where a detached building is required by Table 415.6.2, there are no requirements for wall and opening protection based on fire separation distance.

415.7 Special provisions for Group H-1 occupancies.

Group H-1 occupancies shall be in detached buildings used for no other purpose, shall not exceed one story in height and be without basements, crawl spaces or other under-floor spaces. Roofs shall be of lightweight construction with suitable thermal insulation to prevent sensitive material from reaching its decomposition temperature. Group H-1 occupancies containing materials that are in themselves both physical and health hazards in quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area in Table 307.1(2) shall comply with requirements for both Group H-1 and H-4 occupancies.

415.7.1 Floors in storage rooms.

Floors in storage areas for organic peroxides, pyrophoric materials and unstable (reactive) materials shall be of liquid-tight, noncombustible construction.

415.8 Special provisions for Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies.

Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies containing quantities of hazardous materials in excess of those set forth in Table 415.6.2 shall be in detached buildings used for manufacturing, processing, dispensing, use or storage of hazardous materials. Materials listed for Group H-1 occupancies in Section 307.3 are permitted to be located within Group H-2 or H-3 detached buildings provided the amount of materials per control area do not exceed the maximum allowed quantity specified in Table 307.1(1).

415.8.1 Multiple hazards.

Group H-2 or H-3 occupancies containing materials that are in themselves both physical and health hazards in quantities exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area in Table 307.1(2) shall comply with requirements for Group H-2, H-3 or H-4 occupancies as applicable.

415.8.2 Separation of incompatible materials.

Hazardous materials other than those listed in Table 415.6.2 shall be allowed in manufacturing, processing, dispensing, use or storage areas when separated from incompatible materials in accordance with the provisions of the New York City Fire Code.

415.8.3 Water reactives.

Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies containing water-reactive materials shall be resistant to water penetration. Piping for conveying liquids shall not be over or through areas containing water reactives, unless isolated by approved liquid-tight construction.

Exception: Fire protection piping shall be permitted over or through areas containing water reactives without isolating it with liquid-tight construction.

415.8.4 Floors in storage rooms.

Floors in storage areas for organic peroxides, oxidizers, pyrophoric materials, unstable (reactive) materials and water-reactive solids and liquids shall be of liquid-tight, noncombustible construction.

415.8.5 Waterproof room.

Rooms or areas used for the storage of water-reactive solids and liquids shall be constructed in a manner that resists the penetration of water through the use of waterproof materials. Piping carrying water for other than approved automatic fire sprinkler systems shall not be within such rooms or areas.

415.9 Group H-2.

Occupancies in Group H-2 shall be constructed in accordance with the New York City Fire Code and Sections 415.9.1 through 415.9.3 of this code.

415.9.1 Flammable and combustible liquids.

The storage, handling, processing and transporting of flammable and combustible liquids in Group H-2 and H-3 occupancies shall be in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code, the New York City Fire Code, and Sections 415.9.1.1 through 415.9.1.9 of this code.

415.9.1.1 Mixed occupancies.

Where the storage tank area is located in a building of two or more occupancies, and the quantity of liquid exceeds the maximum allowable quantity for one control area, the use shall be completely separated from adjacent fire areas in accordance with the requirements of Section 508.4.

415.9.1.1.1 Height exception.

Where storage tanks are located within a building no more than one story above grade plane, the height limitation of Section 504 shall not apply for Group H.

415.9.1.2 Tank protection.

Storage tanks shall be noncombustible and protected from physical damage. Fire barriers or horizontal assemblies or both around the storage tanks shall be permitted as the method of protection from physical damage.

415.9.1.2.1 Tanks.

Storage tanks shall be approved tanks conforming to the requirements of the New York City Fire Code.

415.9.1.3 Suppression.

Group H shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system, installed in accordance with Section 903.

415.9.1.4 Leakage containment.

A liquid-tight containment area compatible with the stored liquid shall be provided. The method of spill control, drainage control and secondary containment shall be in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.

Exception: Rooms where only double-wall storage tanks conforming to Section 415.9.1.3 are used to store Class I, II and IIIA flammable and combustible liquids shall not be required to have a leakage containment area.

415.9.1.5 Leakage alarm.

An approved automatic alarm shall be provided to indicate a leak in a storage tank and room. The alarm shall sound an audible signal, 15 dBa above the ambient sound level, at every point of entry into the room in which the leaking storage tank is located. An approved sign shall be posted on every entry door to the tank storage room indicating the potential hazard of the interior room environment, or the sign shall state: WARNING, WHEN ALARM SOUNDS, THE ENVIRONMENT WITHIN THE ROOM MAY BE HAZARDOUS. The leakage alarm shall also be supervised in accordance with Chapter 9 to transmit a trouble signal.

415.9.1.6 Tank vent.

Storage tank vents for Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall terminate to the outdoor air in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.

415.9.1.7 Room ventilation.

Storage tank areas storing Class I, II or IIIA liquids shall be provided with mechanical ventilation. The mechanical ventilation system shall be in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code and the New York City Fire Code.

415.9.1.8 Explosion venting.

Where Class I liquids are being stored, explosion venting shall be provided in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.

415.9.1.9 Tank openings other than vents.

Tank openings other than vents from tanks inside buildings shall be designed to ensure that liquids or vapor concentrations are not released inside the building.

415.9.2 Liquefied petroleum gas-distribution facilities.

The construction and installation of liquefied petroleum gas facilities shall be in accordance with the requirements of this code, the New York City Fire Code, the New York City Mechanical Code, the New York City Fuel Gas Code and NFPA 58.

415.9.3 Dry cleaning plants.

The construction and installation of dry cleaning plants shall be in accordance with the requirements of this code, the New York City Mechanical Code, the New York City Plumbing Code and NFPA 32. Dry cleaning solvents and systems shall be classified in accordance with the New York City Fire Code.

415.10 Groups H-3 and H-4.

Groups H-3 and H-4 shall be constructed in accordance with the applicable provisions of this code and the New York City Fire Code.

415.10.1 Flammable and combustible liquids.

The storage, handling, processing and transporting of flammable and combustible liquids in Group H-3 occupancies shall be in accordance with Section 415.9.1.

415.10.2 Gas rooms.

Where gas rooms are provided, such rooms shall be separated from other areas by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

415.10.3 Floors in storage rooms.

Floors in storage areas for corrosive liquids and highly toxic or toxic materials shall be of liquid-tight, noncombustible construction.

415.10.4 Separation – highly toxic solids and liquids.

Highly toxic solids and liquids not stored in approved hazardous materials storage cabinets shall be isolated from other hazardous materials storage by construction having a 1-hour fire-resistance rating.

415.11 Group H-5.

In addition to the requirements set forth elsewhere in this code, Group H-5 shall comply with the provisions of the New York City Fire Code and Section 415.9 of this code, including, but not limited to, automatic sprinkler protection for workstations, gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures, pass-throughs in exit access corridors and exhaust ducts.

415.11.1 Fabrication areas.

Fabrication areas shall comply with Sections 415.11.1.1 through 415.11.1.8.

415.11.1.1 Hazardous materials.

Hazardous materials and hazardous production materials (HPM) shall comply with Sections 415.11.1.1.1 through 415.11.1.1.2.

415.11.1.1.1 Aggregate quantities.

The aggregate quantities of hazardous materials stored and used in a single fabrication area shall not exceed the quantities set forth in Table 415.11.1.1.1.

Exception: The quantity limitations for any hazard category in Table 415.11.1.1.1 shall not apply where the fabrication area contains quantities of hazardous materials not exceeding the maximum allowable quantities per control area established by Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2).

Table 415.11.1.1.1 Quantity Limits for Hazardous Materials in a Single Fabrication Area in Group H-5

a

Hazard Category

Solids (pounds per square foot)

Liquids (gallons per square foot)

Gas (cubic feet @ NTP/square foot)

Physical-Hazard Materials

Combustible dust

Note b

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Combustible fiber Loose

Baled

Note b Notes b, c

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Combustible liquid II

IIIA

IIIB Combination Class I, II and IIIA

Not Applicable

0.01 0.02 Not Limited 0.04

Not Applicable

Cryogenic gas

Flammable

Oxidizing

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Note d 1.25

Explosives

Note b

Note b

Note b

Flammable gas Gaseous

Liquefied

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Note d Note d

Flammable liquid IA

IB

IC Combination Class IA, IB and IC Combination Class I, II and IIIA

Not Applicable

0.0025 0.025 0.025 0.025 0.04

Not Applicable

Flammable solid

0.001

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Organic peroxide

Unclassified detonable

Class I

Class II

Class III

Class IV

Class V

Note b Note b 0.025 0.1 Not Limited Not limited

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

Oxidizing gas

Gaseous

Liquefied Combination of gaseous

and liquefied

Not Applicable

Not Applicable

1.25 1.25 1.25

Oxidizer

Class 4

Class 3

Class 2

Class 1 Combination

Class 1, 2, 3

Note b 0.003 0.003 0.003 0.003

Note b 0.03 0.03 0.03 0.03

Not Applicable

Pyrophoric material

0.01

0.00125

Notes d and e

Unstable reactive

Class 4

Class 3

Class 2

Class 1

Note b 0.025 0.1 Not Limited

Note b 0.0025 0.01 Not Limited

Note b Note b Note b Not Limited

Water reactive

Class 3

Class 2

Class 1

Note b 0.25 Not Limited

0.00125 0.025 Not Limited

Not Applicable

Health-Hazard Materials

Corrosives

Not Limited

Not Limited

Not Limited

Highly toxic

Not Limited

Not Limited

Note d

Toxics

Not Limited

Not Limited

Note d

For SI: 1 pound per square foot = 4.882 kg/m

2

, 1 gallon per square foot = 40.7 L/m

2

, 1 cubic foot @ NTP/square foot = 0.305 m

3

@ NTP/m

2

, 1 cubic foot = 0.02832 m

3

a. Hazardous materials within piping shall not be included in the calculated quantities.

b. Quantity of hazardous materials in a single fabrication shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control area in Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2).

c. Densely packed baled cotton that complies with the packing requirements of ISO 8115 shall not be included in this material class.

d. The aggregate quantity of flammable, pyrophoric, toxic and highly toxic gases shall not exceed 9,000 cubic feet at NTP.

e. The aggregate quantity of pyrophoric gases in the building shall not exceed the amounts set forth in Table 415.6.2.

415.11.1.1.2 Hazardous production materials.

The maximum quantities of hazardous production materials (HPM) stored in a single fabrication area shall not exceed the maximum allowable quantities per control area established by Tables 307.1(1) and 307.1(2).

415.11.1.2 Separation.

Fabrication areas, whose sizes are limited by the quantity of hazardous materials allowed by Table 415.11.1.1.1, shall be separated from each other, from corridors and from other parts of the building by not less than 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both.

Exceptions:

1. Doors within such fire barrier walls, including doors to corridors, shall be only self-closing fire door assemblies having a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.

2. Windows between fabrication areas and exit access corridors are permitted to be fixed glazing listed and labeled for a fire protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour in accordance with Section 716.

415.11.1.3 Location of occupied levels.

Occupied levels of fabrication areas shall be located at or above the first story above grade plane.

415.11.1.4 Floors.

Except for surfacing, floors within fabrication areas shall be of noncombustible construction.

Openings through floors of fabrication areas are permitted to be unprotected where the interconnected levels are used solely for mechanical equipment directly related to such fabrication areas (see also Section 415.11.1.5).

Floors forming a part of an occupancy separation shall be liquid tight.

415.11.1.5 Shafts and openings through floors.

Elevator hoistways, vent shafts and other openings through floors shall be enclosed where required by Sections 712 and 713. Mechanical, duct and piping penetrations within a fabrication area shall not extend through more than two floors. The annular space around penetrations for cables, cable trays, tubing, piping, conduit or ducts shall be sealed at the floor level to restrict the movement of air. The fabrication area, including the areas through which the ductwork and piping extend, shall be considered a single conditioned environment.

415.11.1.6 Ventilation.

Mechanical exhaust ventilation at the rate of not less than 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot (0.0051 m

3

/(s · m

2

)) of floor area shall be provided throughout portions of the fabrication area where HPM are used or stored. The exhaust air duct system of one fabrication area shall not connect to another duct system outside that fabrication area within the building.

A ventilation system shall be provided to capture and exhaust fumes and vapors at workstations.

Two or more operations at a workstation shall not be connected to the same exhaust system where either one or the combination of the substances removed could constitute a fire, explosion or hazardous chemical reaction within the exhaust duct system.

Exhaust ducts penetrating fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711 shall be contained in a shaft of equivalent fire-resistance-rated construction. Exhaust ducts shall not penetrate fire walls.

Fire dampers shall not be installed in exhaust ducts.

415.11.1.7 Transporting hazardous production materials to fabrication areas.

HPM shall be transported to fabrication areas through enclosed piping or tubing systems that comply with Section 415.11.6, through service corridors complying with Section 415.11.3, or in exit access corridors as permitted in the exception to Section 415.11.2. The handling or transporting of HPM within service corridors shall comply with the New York City Fire Code.

415.11.1.8 Electrical.

Electrical equipment and devices within the fabrication area shall comply with the New York City Electrical Code. The requirements for hazardous locations need not be applied where the average air change is at least four times that set forth in Section 415.11.1.6 and where the number of air changes at any location is not less than three times that required by Section 415.11.1.6. The use of recirculated air shall be permitted.

415.11.1.8.1 Workstations.

Workstations shall not be energized without adequate exhaust ventilation. See Section 415.11.1.6 for workstation exhaust ventilation requirements.

415.11.2 Corridors.

Corridors shall comply with Chapter 10 and shall be separated from fabrication areas as specified in Section 415.11.1.2. Corridors shall not contain HPM and shall not be used for transporting such materials except through closed piping systems as provided in Section 415.11.6.

Exception: Where existing fabrication areas are altered or modified, HPM is allowed to be transported in existing corridors, subject to the following conditions:

1. Nonproduction HPM is allowed to be transported in corridors if utilized for maintenance, lab work and testing.

2. Corridors. Corridors adjacent to the fabrication area where the alteration work is to be done shall comply with Section 1020 for a length determined as follows:

2.1. The length of the common wall of the corridor and the fabrication area; and

2.2. For the distance along the corridor to the point of entry of HPM into the corridor serving that fabrication area.

3. Emergency alarm system. There shall be an emergency telephone system, a local manual alarm station or other approved alarm-initiating device within corridors at not more than 150-foot (45 720 mm) intervals and at each exit and doorway. The signal shall be relayed to an approved central, proprietary or remote station service or the emergency control station and shall also initiate a local audible alarm.

4. Pass-throughs. Self-closing doors having a fire-protection rating of not less than 1 hour shall separate pass-throughs from existing corridors. Pass-throughs shall be constructed as required for the corridors, and protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system.

415.11.3 Service corridors.

Service corridors within a Group H-5 occupancy shall comply with Sections 415.11.3.1 through 415.11.3.4.

415.11.3.1 Use conditions.

Service corridors shall be separated from exit access corridors as required by Section 415.11.1.2. Service corridors shall not be used as a required corridor.

415.11.3.2 Mechanical ventilation.

Service corridors shall be mechanically ventilated as required by Section 415.11.1.6 or at not less than six air changes per hour.

415.11.3.3 Means of egress.

The distance of travel from any point in a service corridor to an exit, exit access corridor or door into a fabrication area shall be not greater than 75 feet (22 860 mm). Dead ends shall be not greater than 4 feet (1219 mm) in length. There shall be not less than two exits, and not more than one-half of the required means of egress shall require travel into a fabrication area. Doors from service corridors shall swing in the direction of egress travel and shall be self-closing.

415.11.3.4 Minimum width.

The clear width of a service corridor shall be not less than 5 feet (1524 mm), or 33 inches (838 mm) wider than the widest cart or truck used in the service corridor, whichever is greater.

415.11.3.5 Emergency alarm system.

Emergency alarm systems shall be provided in accordance with this section and Sections 415.5.1 and 415.5.2. The maximum allowable quantity per control area provisions shall not apply to emergency alarm systems required for HPM.

415.11.3.5.1 Service corridors.

An emergency alarm system shall be provided in service corridors, with no fewer than one alarm device in each service corridor.

415.11.3.5.2 Exit access corridors and exit enclosures.

Emergency alarms for exit access corridors and exit enclosures shall comply with Section 415.5.2.

415.11.3.5.3 Liquid storage rooms, HPM rooms and gas rooms.

Emergency alarms for liquid storage rooms, HPM rooms and gas rooms shall comply with Section 415.5.1.

415.11.3.5.4 Alarm-initiating devices.

An approved emergency telephone system, local alarm manual pull stations, or other approved alarm-initiating devices are allowed to be used as emergency alarm-initiating devices.

415.11.3.5.5 Alarm signals.

Activation of the emergency alarm system shall sound a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control station.

415.11.4 Storage of hazardous production materials.

Storage of HPM in fabrication areas shall be within approved or listed storage cabinets or gas cabinets, or within a workstation. The storage of HPM in quantities greater than those listed in the New York City Fire Code shall be in liquid storage rooms, HPM rooms or gas rooms as appropriate for the materials stored. The storage of other hazardous materials shall be in accordance with other applicable provisions of this code and the New York City Fire Code.

415.11.5 HPM rooms, gas rooms, liquid storage room construction.

HPM rooms, gas rooms and liquid shall be constructed in accordance with Sections 415.11.5.1 through 415.11.5.9.

415.11.5.1 HPM rooms and gas rooms.

HPM rooms and gas rooms shall be separated from other areas by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The fire-resistance rating shall be not less than 2 hours where the area is 300 square feet (27.9 m

2

) or more and not less than 1 hour where the area is less than 300 square feet (27.9 m

2

).

415.11.5.2 Liquid storage rooms.

Liquid storage rooms shall be constructed in accordance with the following requirements:

1. Rooms greater than 500 square feet (46.5 m

2

) in area, shall have no fewer than one exterior door approved for Fire Department access.

2. Rooms shall be separated from other areas by fire barriers constructed in accordance with Section 707 or horizontal assemblies constructed in accordance with Section 711, or both. The fire-resistance rating shall be not less than 1 hour for rooms up to 150 square feet (13.9 m

2

) in area and not less than 2 hours where the room is more than 150 square feet (13.9 m

2

) in area.

3. Shelving, racks and wainscotting in such areas shall be of noncombustible construction or wood of not less than 1-inch (25 mm) nominal thickness or fire-retardant-treated wood complying with Section 2303.2.

4. Rooms used for the storage of Class I flammable liquids shall not be located in a basement.

415.11.5.3 Floors.

Except for surfacing, floors of HPM rooms and liquid storage rooms shall be of noncombustible liquid-tight construction. Raised grating over floors shall be of noncombustible materials.

415.11.5.4 Location.

Where HPM rooms, liquid storage rooms and gas rooms are provided, they shall have no fewer than one exterior wall and such wall shall be not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) from tax-lot lines, including tax-lot lines adjacent to public ways.

415.11.5.5 Explosion control.

Explosion control shall be provided where required by Section 414.5.1.

415.11.5.6 Exits.

Where two exits are required from HPM rooms, liquid storage rooms and gas rooms, one shall be directly to the outside of the building.

415.11.5.7 Doors.

Doors in a fire barrier wall, including doors to corridors, shall be self-closing fire door assemblies having a fire-protection rating of not less than 3/4 hour.

415.11.5.8 Ventilation.

Mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided in liquid storage rooms, HPM rooms and gas rooms at the rate of not less than 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot (0.044 L/s/m

2

) of floor area or six air changes per hour.

Exhaust ventilation for gas rooms shall be designed to operate at a negative pressure in relation to the surrounding areas and direct the exhaust ventilation to an exhaust system.

415.11.5.9 Emergency alarm system.

An approved emergency alarm system shall be provided for HPM rooms, liquid storage rooms and gas rooms.

Emergency alarm-initiating devices shall be installed outside of each interior exit door of such rooms.

Activation of an emergency alarm-initiating device shall sound a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control station.

An approved emergency telephone system, local alarm manual pull stations or other approved alarm-initiating devices are allowed to be used as emergency alarm-initiating devices.

415.11.6 Piping and tubing.

Hazardous production materials piping and tubing shall comply with this section and ASME B31.3.

415.11.6.1 HPM having a health-hazard ranking of 3 or 4.

Systems supplying HPM liquids or gases having a health-hazard ranking of 3 or 4 shall be welded throughout, except for connections, to the systems that are within a ventilated enclosure if the material is a gas, or an approved method of drainage or containment is provided for the connections if the material is a liquid.

415.11.6.2 Location in service corridors.

Hazardous production materials supply piping or tubing in service corridors shall be exposed to view.

415.11.6.3 Excess flow control.

Where HPM gases or liquids are carried in pressurized piping above 15 pounds per square inch gauge (psig) (103.4 kPa), excess flow control shall be provided. Where the piping originates from within a liquid storage room, HPM room or gas room, the excess flow control shall be located within the liquid storage room, HPM room or gas room. Where the piping originates from a bulk source, the excess flow control shall be located as close to the bulk source as practical.

415.11.6.4 Installations in corridors and above other occupancies.

The installation of HPM piping and tubing within the space defined by the walls of exit access corridors and the floor or roof above or in concealed spaces above other occupancies shall be in accordance with Sections 415.11.6.1 through 415.11.6.3 and the following conditions:

1. Automatic sprinklers shall be installed within the space unless the space is less than 6 inches (152 mm) in the least dimension.

2. Ventilation not less than six air changes per hour shall be provided. The space shall not be used to convey air from any other area.

3. Where the piping or tubing is used to transport HPM liquids, a receptor shall be installed below such piping or tubing. The receptor shall be designed to collect any discharge or leakage and drain it to an approved location. The 1-hour enclosure shall not be used as part of the receptor.

4. HHPM supply piping and tubing and nonmetallic waste lines shall be separated from the corridor and from occupancies other than Group H-5 by fire barriers or by an approved method or assembly that has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour. Access openings into the enclosure shall be protected by approved fire-resistance- rated assemblies.

5. Readily accessible manual or automatic remotely activated fail-safe emergency shutoff valves shall be installed on piping and tubing other than waste lines at the following locations:

5.1. At branch connections into the fabrication area.

5.2. At entries into exit access corridors.

Exception: Transverse crossings of the corridors by supply piping that is enclosed within a ferrous pipe or tube for the width of the corridor need not comply with Items 1 through 5.

415.11.6.5 Identification.

Piping, tubing and HPM waste lines shall be identified in accordance with ANSI A13.1 to indicate the material being transported.

415.11.7 Continuous gas detection systems.

A continuous gas detection system shall be provided for HPM gases where the physiological warning threshold level of the gas is at a higher level than the accepted permissible exposure limit (PEL) for the gas and for flammable gases in accordance with Sections 415.11.7.1 and 415.11.7.2.

415.11.7.1 Where required.

A continuous gas detection system shall be provided in the areas identified in Sections 415.11.7.1.1 through 415.11.7.1.4.

415.11.7.1.1 Fabrication areas.

A continuous gas detection system shall be provided in fabrication areas where gas is used in the fabrication area.

415.11.7.1.2 HPM rooms.

A continuous gas detection system shall be provided in HPM rooms where gas is used in the room.

415.11.7.1.3 Gas cabinets, exhausted enclosures and gas rooms.

A continuous gas detection system shall be provided in gas cabinets and exhausted enclosures. A continuous gas detection system shall be provided in gas rooms where gases are not located in gas cabinets or exhausted enclosures.

415.11.7.1.4 Corridors.

Where gases are transported in piping placed within the space defined by the walls of a corridor and the floor or roof above the corridor, a continuous gas detection system shall be provided where piping is located and in the corridor.

Exception: A continuous gas detection system is not required for occasional transverse crossings of the corridors by supply piping that is enclosed in a ferrous pipe or tube for the width of the corridor.

415.11.7.2 Gas detection system operation.

The continuous gas detection system shall be capable of monitoring the room, area or equipment in which the gas is located at or below all the following gas concentrations:

1. Immediately dangerous to life and health (IDLH) values where the monitoring point is within an exhausted enclosure, ventilated enclosure or gas cabinet.

2. Permissible exposure limit (PEL) levels where the monitoring point is in an area outside an exhausted enclosure, ventilated enclosure or gas cabinet.

3. For flammable gases, the monitoring detection threshold level shall be vapor concentrations in excess of 25 percent of the lower flammable limit (LFL) where the monitoring is within or outside an exhausted enclosure, ventilated enclosure or gas cabinet.

4. Except as noted in this section, monitoring for highly toxic and toxic gases shall also comply with the New York City Fire Code.

415.11.7.2.1 Alarms.

The gas detection system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control station when a short-term hazard condition is detected. The alarm shall be both visual and audible and shall provide warning both inside and outside the area where the gas is detected. The audible alarm shall be distinct from all other alarms.

415.11.7.2.2 Shutoff of gas supply.

The gas detection system shall automatically close the shutoff valve at the source on gas supply piping and tubing related to the system being monitored for which gas is detected when a short-term hazard condition is detected. Automatic closure of shutoff valves shall comply with the following:

1. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valve in the gas cabinet or exhausted enclosure for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.

2. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a room and compressed gas containers are not in gas cabinets or an exhausted enclosure, the shutoff valves on all gas lines for the specific gas detected shall automatically close.

3. Where the gas-detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is within a piping distribution manifold enclosure, the shutoff valve supplying the manifold for the compressed gas container of the specific gas detected shall automatically close.

Exception: Where the gas detection sampling point initiating the gas detection system alarm is at the use location or within a gas valve enclosure of a branch line downstream of a piping distribution manifold, the shutoff valve for the branch line located in the piping distribution manifold enclosure shall automatically close.

415.11.8 Manual fire alarm system.

An approved manual fire alarm system shall be provided throughout buildings containing Group H-5. Activation of the alarm system shall initiate a local alarm and transmit a signal to the emergency control station. The fire alarm system shall be designed and installed in accordance with Section 907.

415.11.9 Emergency control station.

An emergency control station shall be provided in accordance with Sections 415.11.9.1 through 415.11.9.3.

415.11.9.1 Location.

The emergency control station shall be located on the premises at an approved location outside the fabrication area.

415.11.9.2 Staffing.

Trained personnel shall continuously staff the emergency control station.

415.11.9.3 Signals.

The emergency control station shall monitor signals from emergency equipment and alarm and detection systems. Such emergency equipment and alarm and detection systems shall include the following systems, whether required by this code or the New York City Construction Codes or voluntarily installed:

1. Automatic sprinkler system alarm and monitoring systems.

2. Manual fire alarm systems.

3. Emergency alarm systems.

4. Continuous gas detection systems.

5. Smoke detection systems.

6. Emergency power system.

7. Automatic detection and alarm systems for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids required in the New York City Fire Code.

8. Exhaust ventilation flow alarm devices for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids cabinet exhaust ventilation systems required in the New York City Fire Code.

415.11.10 Emergency power system.

An emergency power system shall be provided in Group H-5 occupancies in accordance with Section 2702. The emergency power system shall supply power automatically to the electrical systems specified in Section 415.11.10.1 when the normal electrical supply system is interrupted.

415.11.10.1 Required electrical systems.

Emergency power shall be provided for electrically operated equipment and connected control circuits for the following systems:

1. HPM exhaust ventilation systems.

2. HPM gas cabinet ventilation systems.

3. HPM exhausted enclosure ventilation systems.

4. HPM gas room ventilation systems.

5. HPM gas detection systems.

6. Emergency alarm systems.

7. Manual and automatic fire alarm systems.

8. Automatic sprinkler system monitoring and alarm systems.

9. Automatic alarm and detection systems for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids required in the New York City Fire Code.

10. Flow alarm switches for pyrophoric liquids and Class 3 water-reactive liquids cabinet exhaust ventilation systems required in the New York City Fire Code.

11. Electrically operated systems required elsewhere in this code applicable to the use, storage or handling of HPM.

415.11.10.2 Exhaust ventilation systems.

Exhaust ventilation systems are allowed to be designed to operate at not less than one-half the normal fan speed on the emergency power system where it is demonstrated that the level of exhaust will maintain a safe atmosphere.

415.11.11 Automatic sprinkler system protection in exhaust ducts for HPM.

An approved automatic fire sprinkler system shall be provided in exhaust ducts conveying vapors, fumes, mists or dusts generated from HPM in accordance with the New York City Mechanical Code and Sections 415.11.11.1 through 415.11.11.3 of this code.

415.11.11.1 Metallic and noncombustible nonmetallic exhaust ducts.

An approved automatic sprinkler system shall be provided in metallic and noncombustible, nonmetallic exhaust ducts where all of the following conditions apply:

1. Where the largest cross-sectional diameter is equal to or greater than 10 inches (254 mm).

2. The ducts are within the building.

3. The ducts are conveying flammable gases, vapors or fumes.

415.11.11.2 Combustible nonmetallic exhaust ducts.

Automatic fire sprinkler system protection shall be provided in combustible nonmetallic exhaust ducts where the largest cross-sectional diameter of the duct is equal to or greater than 10 inches (254 mm).

Exception: Ducts need not be provided with automatic sprinkler protection as follows:

1. Ducts listed or approved for applications without automatic sprinkler system protection.

2. Ducts not more than 12 feet (3658 mm) in length installed below ceiling level.

415.11.11.3 Automatic sprinkler locations.

Sprinkler systems shall be installed at 12-foot (3658 mm) intervals in horizontal ducts and at changes indirection. In vertical ducts, sprinklers shall be installed at the top and at alternate floor levels.