Everyday Hazmat User’s Training Guide, Page 22

Everyday Hazmat User's Training Guide

Section III Hazardous Materials Management (continued)

Flammable Solids

Flammable solids include self-reactive materials that can catch fire even without oxygen, readily combustible solids that can ignite from friction, and powdered or granular substances that can ignite. Federal regulations for flammable solids are noted in this guideline. You should also check with your local fire marshal to see if your area has more restrictive requirements.

Definitions

Flammable Solids—The Dangers

Flammable solids are dangerous because they can cause a fire easily. The fire could give off toxic combustion products. Some flammable solids are difficult to extinguish. Common firefighting materials (water, CO2) may increase the risk of damage if they are used on some flammable solids.

Storage Cabinets

Proper storage cabinets can protect workers and the environment and can allow you to store larger quantities of flammable solids safely.

Indoor Storage

Flammable solids can be stored inside buildings so long as certain precautions are taken. These precautions are based on fire code requirements. Check with your local fire marshal because your area may have additional restrictions. Keeping the total volume of flammable solids below the exempt amount (125 pounds) per control area will avoid additional restrictions; see your hazmat coordinator if you have more than 125 pounds of flammable solids per control area.

Click on image for larger descriptive view

Other Important Requirements

Floors in flammable solid storage areas should be noncombustible.
Noncombustible shelving should be used.
Notify your local fire department if you have more than 100 pounds of flammable solids onsite.
All products should be labeled with a flammable solid label.
Each control area must have a NO SMOKING sign.
Each control area must have a flammable solid hazard identification sign.
Don’t store or transport damaged fusees.

Outdoor Storage

Flammable solids can be stored outside as well as inside, as long as storage does not degrade the quality of the product. You can have up to two control areas, possibly more if you have a large area, but each control area has restrictions. Keeping the total storage volume of flammable solids below the exempt amount (125 pounds) per control area will avoid additional restrictions.

Click on image for larger descriptive view

Other Important Requirements

Notify your local fire department if you have more than 100 pounds of flammable solids onsite.
All products should be labeled with a flammable solid label.
Each control area must have a NO SMOKING sign.
Each control area must have a flammable solid hazard identification sign.