N.Y.C. Admin. Code § FC 3706: Section FC 3706: Storage of Combustible Fibers on Waterfront Structures

3706.1 Scope.

This section shall govern the storage and handling of combustible fibers on waterfront structures, including piers, wharfs and bulkheads except when combustible fibers are stored and handled exclusively in sealed metal shipping containers.

3706.2 General.

Combustible fiber shall be stored and handled on waterfront structures in accordance with this section.

3706.3 Prohibitions.

It shall be unlawful to:

1. Unload and store loose combustible fibers on a waterfront structure.

2. Conduct hot work operations on a waterfront structure where combustible fibers are in storage or being handled.

3706.4 Supervision of standpipe and sprinkler systems.

A person holding a certificate of fitness for a standpipe system and a certificate of fitness for sprinkler system maintenance shall inspect the standpipe and sprinkler systems not more than 24 hours prior to the delivery of the combustible fibers. Combustible fibers shall not be unloaded if the standpipe or sprinkler system is out of service. While combustible fibers are present on the waterfront structure, the certificate of fitness holder shall inspect the standpipe and sprinkler systems, and portable fire extinguishers at least once each day. A record of all inspections shall be maintained on the premises and made available for inspection by any representative of the department.

3706.5 Notification.

Before combustible fibers are unloaded to a waterfront structure from any marine vessel, watercraft or motor vehicle, advance notice of at least 48 hours shall be given to the department by the owner of the waterfront structure.

3706.6 Fire protection.

Waterfront structures where combustible fibers are stored or handled shall be provided with fire protection in accordance with FC 3706.6.1 through 3706.6.4.

3706.6.1 Superstructure.

The superstructure of the waterfront structure shall be protected throughout by a sprinkler system.

3706.6.2 Substructure.

The substructure of the waterfront structure shall be protected by one of the following methods:

1. Fire stops at intervals of 150 feet (45 720 mm); and

1.1. A sprinkler system arranged for discharge of water to the entire substructure area; or

1.2. Protected openings through decking for revolving nozzles or other water discharge equipment, so arranged as to permit water discharge onto the entire substructure area. Such openings shall be a minimum of 6 1/2 inches (165 mm) in diameter and spaced at 25 feet (7620 mm) intervals longitudinally and transversely. No cargo shall be stored on deck openings adjacent to the substructure fire stops and those in the main and fire hose aisles.

2. A system of water spray nozzles arranged to permit water discharge onto the entire substructure area and installed in accordance with the Building Code.

3. A system of trenches across the waterfront structure every 100 feet (30 480 mm). Such trenches shall not exceed 12 inches (305 mm) in width, shall be of substantial construction that conforms to the rest of the waterfront structure, shall extend to within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the sides of the waterfront structure, and shall have openings protected in sections not to exceed 25 feet (7620 mm) for access or removal in the event of fire. No cargo shall be placed directly above these openings, and durable signs shall be conspicuously posted on the waterfront structure to indicate the location of these openings.

4. A system of deck openings and under-deck sprinkler protection approved by the commissioner. Openings shall be spaced at 25 feet (7620 mm) intervals longitudinally and transversely. No cargo shall be placed directly above these openings, and durable signs shall be conspicuously posted on the waterfront structure to indicate the location of these openings.

3706.6.3 LPG or gasoline-fueled equipment.

Any LPG or gasoline-fueled devices, equipment or systems used to handle combustible fibers, or operated in the immediate area of combustible fiber storage or handling, shall be equipped with exhaust spark arresters and carburetor traps.

3706.6.4 Portable fire extinguishers.

The combustible fiber storage area shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers in accordance with FC 906 governing extra-high hazards (Class A fires).

3706.7 Storage and handling.

Bales of combustible fibers facing aisles shall be covered on top and sides with tarpaulins or other suitable covering. Whenever possible, the combustible fibers shall be stacked on one side of the waterfront structure only, preferably at the water end of waterfront structure. Combustible fibers shall be tiered no higher than 12 feet (3658 mm) and a clearance of not less than 18 inches (457 mm) between the sprinkler head and the upper level of the top tier shall be maintained. An aisle space of not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) extending to the side of the waterfront structure shall be provided at right angles to the main aisle at intervals not exceeding 75 feet (22 860 mm) in the combustible fiber storage area.

3706.8 Operation and maintenance.

Waterfront structures upon which combustible fibers are stored or handled shall be operated and maintained in compliance with the requirements of FC 3706.8.1 through 3706.8.3.

3706.8.1 Fire guard.

A fire guard shall be required and positioned approximately every 200 feet (60 960 mm) throughout the length of the combustible fiber storage area. Persons conducting a fire watch shall have the duties and responsibilities set forth in FC 901.7.2.1 with respect to the areas being monitored in connection with combustible fiber storage, and shall be familiar with the location of fire alarm manual pull stations, and standpipe system hose and hose connections in the area.

3706.8.2 Access.

Access to combustible fibers and the aisles between the stored combustible fibers shall be restricted to personnel handling the combustible fibers, fire guards and representatives of the department.

3706.8.3 Loading and unloading.

When loading and unloading combustible fibers, two persons shall be assigned to each loading or unloading operation to stand by with the standpipe hose. These persons shall be instructed as to the location and use of the standpipe system valves and hoses.