Q: Can you tell me where to find the code reference for trash cans in healthcare, ambulatory, and business occupancies? I have reviewed the respective chapters in the 2012 LSC and there does not appear to be any requirements for a rating or type of trash container to be used. I was thinking that they all had to be UL listed?
A: You are correct in that there is no mention of trash can ratings in the Life Safety Code. Years ago (perhaps 25 years ago) there used to be, but the requirements for a trash can to have a specific rating has since been deleted.
Now, there is a requirement for containers holding clean waste and documents waiting for shredding to be FM Approval 6921 (See 19.7.5.7.2 of the 2012 Life Safety Code), but other than that there are no requirements.
Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.
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