Automatic Fire Sprinkler System for Heath Hazard Storage 1

[fcxdfm]

Both Internation and Uniform Fire Codes require automatic fire sprinkler system for the heath hazard storage space (H occupancy). Can anyone explain why the automatic fire sprinkler system is still required, even when the hazard material is only corrosive (sodium hydroxide), and not flammable or coumbustible at all?

 

[stookeyfpe]

The intent of the International Fire Code is that rooms that contain noncombustible materials eventually end up containing combustible materials. Also, empty drums are combustible and are commonly stored in chemical storage rooms. Code officials and emergency responders believe that if these empty drums (plastic) are involved in fire, they can extend into the full drums and cause leaks.

This is also the intent of the Uniform Fire Code.

Your sprinkler design should be a minimum of Ordinary Hazard Group 2 over a 3,000 square foot design area.