IBC Totes, Fire Safety, and the NFPA
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has established guidelines regarding the use of Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), including caged IBC totes. These guidelines are primarily outlined in NFPA 30, a code dedicated to flammable and combustible liquids. Here’s what the NFPA says about IBCs:
1. IBC Definition and Capacity
According to the NFPA, an IBC is a closed shipping vessel with a liquid capacity ranging from 450 up to 3,000 liters. This large capacity can raise concerns about potential fuel contribution to a fire should multiple container failure occur.
2. Flammable and Combustible Liquids
Should an IBC containing flammable or combustible liquids fail, such as during a fire, they can release a large pool of these liquids. If ignited, the extreme heat release rates can pose significant fire risks. Therefore, NFPA 30 provides protection guidelines for listed rigid nonmetallic intermediate bulk containers.
3. Storage Guidelines
NFPA 30 outlines specific rules on what types of IBCs are allowed in buildings. Moreover, under Section 12.8, these containers may be protected as “high storage of Class IV commodities” through NFPA 13, provided that the volume is within specified limits.
4. Fire Risks and Protection
IBCs may contain combustible or flammable fluids that can cause dangerous fires. To mitigate these risks, NFPA’s Research Foundation has developed an IBC safety campaign. It’s crucial for businesses using IBCs to adhere to these safety measures to ensure the safe storage and transportation of flammable and combustible liquids.
The NFPA provides useful guidelines on the use of IBC totes and tank containers. Businesses using these products should always familiarize themselves with the required and recommended guidelines to ensure compliance and maintain a safe working environment, especially when handling combustible and flammable liquids.
For more information on IBC totes and fire safety, see here for more from the NFPA.
