Regulations, Codes & Standards Q&A: Isopropyl alcohol storage

Q: Our facility stocks 70 percent Isopropyl Alcohol in 16-oz. containers. We generally keep in stock 12 or less bottles. Are there any certain storage requirements for this (such as an OSHA approved cabinet)? Currently they live in a supply storage room that does have a sprinkler head.

A: Twelve 16-oz containers of Isopropyl Alcohol (which is a Type IB flammable liquid) equals 3 gallons. According to NFPA 30-2012, section 9.6.2.1 the maximum allowable quantity of Type I flammable liquid is 10 gallons per control area. A control area would be a smoke compartment. Over 10-gallons would require a flammable liquid storage cabinet. It appears your storage arrangement would be permitted.

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.