Ohio Admin. Code 1301:7-7-32

Current through all regulations passed and filed through December 9, 2024

Section 1301:7-7-32 - High-piled combustible storage

(A)Section 3201 General

(1)3201.1 Scope. High-piled combustible storage shall be in accordance with this rule. In addition to the requirements of this rule, the following material-specific requirements shall apply:

(a) Aerosols shall be in accordance with rule 1301:7-7-51 of the Administrative Code.

(b) Flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with rule 1301:7-7-57 of the Administrative Code.

(c) Hazardous materials shall be in accordance with rule 1301:7-7-50 of the Administrative Code.

(d) Storage of combustible paper records shall be in accordance with NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(e) Storage of combustible fibers shall be in accordance with rule 1301:7-7-37 of the Administrative Code.

(f) General storage of combustible material shall be in accordance with rule 1301:7-7-03 of the Administrative Code.

(2)3201.2 Permits. A permit shall be required as set forth in rule 1301:7-7-01 of the Administrative Code.

(3)3201.3 Construction documents. At the time of building permit application for new structures designed to accommodate high-piled storage or for requesting a change of occupancy/use, and at the time of application for a storage permit, plans and specifications shall be submitted for review and approval. In addition to the information required by the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code, the storage permit submittal shall include the information specified in this paragraph. Following approval of the plans, a copy of the approved plans shall be maintained on the premises in an approved location. The plans shall include all of the following:

(a) Floor plan of the building showing locations and dimensions of high-piled storage areas.

(b) Usable storage height for each storage area.

(c) Number of tiers within each rack, if applicable.

(d) Commodity clearance between top of storage and the sprinkler deflector for each storage arrangement.

(e) Aisle dimensions between each storage array.

(f) Maximum pile volume for each storage array.

(g) Location and classification of commodities in accordance with paragraph (C)(3203) of this rule.

(h) Location of commodities that are banded or encapsulated.

(i) Location of required fire department access doors.

(j) Type of fire suppression and fire detection systems.

(k) Location of valves controlling the water supply of ceiling and in-rack sprinklers.

(l) Type, location and specifications of smoke removal and curtain board systems.

(m) Dimension and location of transverse and longitudinal flue spaces.

(n) Additional information regarding required design features, commodities, storage arrangement and fire protection features within the high-piled storage area shall be provided at the time of permit, when required by the fire code official.

(4)3201.4 Evacuation plan. Where required by the fire code official, an evacuation plan for public accessible areas and a separate set of plans indicating location and width of aisles, location of exits, exit access doors, exit signs, height of storage, and locations of hazardous materials shall be submitted at the time of permit application for review and approval. Following approval of the plans, a copy of the approved plans shall be maintained on the premises in an approved location.

(B)Section 3202 Definitions

(1)3202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in rule 1301:7-7-02 of the Administrative Code.

"Array."

"Array, closed."

"Automated rack storage."

"Bin box."

"Commodity."

"Early suppression fast-response (ESFR) sprinkler."

"Expanded plastic."

"Extra-high rack combustible storage."

"High-piled combustible storage."

"High-piled storage area."

"Longitudinal flue space."

"Manual stocking methods."

"Mechanical stocking methods."

"Shelf storage."

"Solid shelving."

"Transverse flue space."

(C)Section 3203 Commodity classification

(1)3203.1 Classification of commodities. Commodities shall be classified as Class I, II, III, IV or high hazard in accordance with this paragraph. Materials listed within each commodity classification are assumed to be unmodified for improved combustibility characteristics. Use of flame-retarding modifiers or the physical form of the material could change the classification. See paragraph (C)(7)( 3203.7) of this rule for classification of Group A, B and C plastics.

(2)3203.2 Class I commodities. Class I commodities are essentially noncombustible products on wooden pallets, in ordinary corrugated cartons with or without single-thickness dividers, or in ordinary paper wrappings with or without pallets. Class I commodities are allowed to contain a limited amount of Group A plastics in accordance with paragraph (C)(7)(d)(3203.7.4) of this rule. Examples of Class I commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Alcoholic beverages not exceeding 20-per cent alcohol

Appliances noncombustible, electrical

Cement in bags

Ceramics

Dairy products in nonwax-coated containers (excluding bottles)

Dry insecticides

Foods in noncombustible containers

Fresh fruits and vegetables in nonplastic trays or containers

Frozen foods

Glass

Glycol in metal cans

Gypsum board

Inert materials, bagged

Insulation, noncombustible

Noncombustible liquids in plastic containers having less than a 5-gallon (19 L) capacity Noncombustible metal products

(3)3203.3 Class II commodities. Class II commodities are Class I products in slatted wooden crates, solid wooden boxes, multiple-thickness paperboard cartons or equivalent combustible packaging material with or without pallets. Class II commodities are allowed to contain a limited amount of Group A plastics in accordance with paragraph (C)(7)(d)(3203.7.4) of this rule. Examples of Class II commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Alcoholic beverages not exceeding 20-per cent alcohol, in combustible containers

Foods in combustible containers

Incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs in cartons

Thinly coated fine wire on reels or in cartons

(4)3203.4 Class III commodities. Class III commodities are commodities of wood, paper, natural fiber cloth, or Group C plastics or products thereof, with or without pallets. Products are allowed to contain limited amounts of Group A or B plastics, such as metal bicycles with plastic handles, pedals, seats and tires. Group A plastics shall be limited in accordance with paragraph (C)(7)(d)(3203.7.4) of this rule. Examples of Class III commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Aerosol, Level 1 (see rule 1301:7-7-51 of the Administrative Code)

Biomass briquettes, bagged, and static piles

Biomass pellets, bagged, and static piles

Charcoal

Combustible fiberboard

Cork, baled

Corn cobs, static piles

Corn stover, baled and chopped

Feed, bagged

Fertilizers, bagged

Firewood

Food in plastic containers

Forest residue, round wood or chipped (branches, bark, cross-cut ends, edgings and treetops)

Furniture: wood, natural fiber, upholstered, nonplastic, wood or metal with plastic-padded and covered arm rests

Glycol in combustible containers not exceeding 25 per cent

Lubricating or hydraulic fluid in metal cans

Lumber

Mattresses, excluding foam rubber and foam plastics

Noncombustible liquids in plastic containers having a capacity of more than 5 gallons (19 L)

Paints, oil base, in metal cans

Paper, waste, baled

Paper and pulp, horizontal storage, or vertical storage that is banded or protected with approved wrap

Paper in cardboard boxes

Peanut hulls, bagged, and static piles

Pillows, excluding foam rubber and foam plastics

Plastic-coated paper food containers

Plywood

Rags, baled

Recovered construction wood

Rice hulls, bagged, and static piles

Rugs, without foam backing

Seasonal grasses, baled and chopped

Straw, baled

Sugar, bagged

Wood, baled

Wood chips, bagged, and static piles

Woody biomass, round wood or chipped (vase-shaped stubby bushes, bamboo, willows; branches, bark and stem wood)

Wood doors, frames and cabinets

Wood pellets, bagged, and static piles

Yarns of natural fiber and viscose

(5)3203.5 Class IV commodities. Class IV commodities are Class I, II or III products containing Group A plastics in ordinary corrugated cartons and Class I, II and III products with Group A plastic packaging, with or without pallets. Group B plastics and free-flowing Group A plastics are also included in this class. The total amount of nonfree-flowing Group A plastics shall be in accordance with paragraph (C)(7)(d)(3203.7.4) of this rule. Examples of Class IV commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Aerosol, Level 2 (see rule 1301:7-7-51 of the Administrative Code)

Alcoholic beverages, exceeding 20 -per cent but less than 80-percent alcohol, in cans or bottles in cartons

Clothing, synthetic or nonviscose

Combustible metal products (solid)

Furniture, plastic upholstered

Furniture, wood or metal with plastic covering and padding

Glycol in combustible containers (greater than 25 per cent and less than 50 per cent)

Linoleum products

Paints, oil base in combustible containers

Pharmaceutical, alcoholic elixirs, tonics, etc.

Rugs, foam back

Shingles, asphalt

Thread or yarn, synthetic or nonviscose

(6)3203.6 High-hazard commodities. High-hazard commodities are high-hazard products presenting special fire hazards beyond those of Class I, II, III or IV. Group A plastics not otherwise classified are included in this class. Examples of high-hazard commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:

Aerosol, Level 3 (see rule 1301:7-7-51 of the Administrative Code)

Alcoholic beverages, exceeding 80-per cent alcohol, in bottles or cartons

Commodities of any class in plastic containers in carousel storage

Flammable solids (except solid combustible metals)

Glycol in combustible containers (50 per cent or greater)

Lacquers that dry by solvent evaporation, in metal cans or cartons

Lubricating or hydraulic fluid in plastic containers

Mattresses, foam rubber or foam plastics

Pallets and flats that are idle combustible

Paper and pulp, rolled, in vertical storage that is unbanded or not protected with an approved wrap

Paper, asphalt, rolled, horizontal storage

Paper, asphalt, rolled, vertical storage

Pillows, foam rubber and foam plastics

Pyroxylin

Rubber tires

Vegetable oil and butter in plastic containers

(7)3203.7 Classification of plastics. Plastics shall be designated as Group A, B or C in accordance with paragraphs (C)(7)(a)(3203.7.1) to (C)(7)(d)(3203.7.4) of this rule.

(a)3203.7.1 Group A plastics. Group A plastics are plastic materials having a heat of combustion that is much higher than that of ordinary combustibles, and a burning rate higher than that of Group B plastics. Examples of Group A plastics include, but are not limited to, the following:

ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene copolymer)

Acetal (polyformaldehyde)

Acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate)

Butyl rubber

EPDM (ethylene propylene rubber)

FRP (fiberglass-reinforced polyester)

Natural rubber (expanded)

Nitrile rubber (acrylonitrile butadiene rubber)

PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)

Polybutadiene

Polycarbonate

Polyester elastomer

Polythylene

Polypropylene

Polystryrene (expanded and unexpanded)

Polyurethane (expanded and unexpanded)

PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than 15 per cent plasticized, e.g., coated fabric unsupported film)

SAN (styrene acrylonitrile)

SBR (styrene butadiene rubber)

(b)3203.7.2 Group B plastics. Group B plastics are plastic materials having a heat of combustion and a burning rate higher than that of ordinary combustibles, but not as high as those of Group A plastics. Examples of Group B plastics include, but are not limited to, the following:

Cellulosics (cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate, ethyl cellulose)

Chloroprene rubber

Fluoroplastics (ECTFE, ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer; ETFE, ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer; FEP, fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymer)

Natural rubber (nonexpanded)

Nylon (Nylon 6, Nylon 6/6)

PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than 5-per cent, but not exceeding 15-per cent plasticized) Silicone rubber

(c)3203.7.3 Group C plastics. Group C plastics are plastic materials having a heat of combustion and a burning rate similar to those of ordinary combustibles. Examples of Group C plastics include, but are not limited to, the following:

Fluoroplastics (PCTFE, polychlorotrifluoroethylene; PTFE, polytetrafluoroethylene)

Melamine (melamine formaldehyde)

Phenol

PVC (polyvinyl chloride, rigid or plasticized less than 5-per cent, e.g., pipe, pipe fittings)

PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride)

PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride)

PVF (polyvinyl fluoride)

Urea (urea formaldehyde)

(d)3203.7.4 Limited quantities of Group A plastics in mixed commodities. Figure (C)(7)(d)(3203.7.4) of this rule shall be used to determine the quantity of Group A plastics allowed to be stored in a package or carton or on a pallet without increasing the commodity classification.

Figure 3203.7.4 Mixed commodities^a,b

Click to view image

a. This figure is intended to determine the commodity classification of a mixed commodity in a package, carton or on a pallet where plastics are involved.

b. The following is an example of how to apply the figure: A package containing a Class III commodity has 12-per cent Group A expanded plastic by volume. The weight of the unexpanded Group A plastic is 10 per cent. This commodity is classified as a Class IV commodity. If the weight of the unexpanded plastic is increased to 14 per cent, the classification changes to a high-hazard commodity.

c. Per cent by volume = Volume of plastic in pallet load

Total volume of pallet load, including pallet

d. Per centby weight = Weight of plastic in pallet load

Total weight of pallet load, including pallet

(D)Section 3204 Designation of high-piled storage areas

(1)3204.1 General. High-piled storage areas, and portions of high-piled storage areas intended for storage of a different commodity class than adjacent areas, shall be designed and specifically designated to contain Class I, Class II, Class III, Class IV or high-hazard commodities. The designation of a high-piled combustible storage area, or portion thereof intended for storage of a different commodity class, shall be based on the highest hazard commodity class stored except as provided in paragraph (D)(2)( 3204.2) of this rule.

(2)3204.2 Designation based on engineering analysis. The designation of a high-piled combustible storage area, or portion thereof, is allowed to be based on a lower hazard class than that of the highest class of commodity stored when a limited quantity of the higher hazard commodity has been demonstrated by engineering analysis to be adequately protected by the automatic sprinkler system provided. The engineering analysis shall consider the ability of the sprinkler system to deliver the higher density required by the higher hazard commodity. The higher density shall be based on the actual storage height of the pile or rack and the minimum allowable design area for sprinkler operation as set forth in the density/area figures provided in NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code. The contiguous area occupied by the higher hazard commodity shall not exceed 120 square feet (11 m²), and additional areas of higher hazard commodity shall be separated from other such areas by 25 feet (7620 mm) or more. The sprinkler system shall be capable of delivering the higher density over a minimum area of 900 square feet (84 m²) for wet pipe systems and 1,200 square feet (111 m²) for dry pipe systems. The shape of the design area shall be in accordance with paragraph (C)(903) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code.

(E)Section 3205 Housekeeping and maintenance

(1)3205.1 Rack structures. The structural integrity of racks shall be maintained.

(2)3205.2 Ignition sources. Clearance from ignition sources shall be provided in accordance with paragraph (E)(305) of rule 1301:7-7-03 of the Administrative Code.

(3)3205.3 Smoking. Smoking shall be prohibited. Approved "No Smoking" signs shall be conspicuously posted in accordance with paragraph (J)(310) of rule 1301:7-7-03 of the Administrative Code.

(4)3205.4 Aisle maintenance. When restocking is not being conducted, aisles shall be kept clear of storage, waste material and debris. Fire department access doors, aisles and exit doors shall not be obstructed. During restocking operations using manual stocking methods, a minimum unobstructed aisle width of 24 inches (610 mm) shall be maintained in 48-inch (1219 mm) or smaller aisles, and a minimum unobstructed aisle width of one-half of the required aisle width shall be maintained in aisles greater than 48 inches (1219 mm). During mechanical stocking operations, a minimum unobstructed aisle width of 44 inches (1118 mm) shall be maintained in accordance with paragraph (F)(9)( 3206.9) of this rule.

(5)3205.5 Pile dimension and height limitations. Pile dimensions and height limitations shall comply with paragraph (G)(3)( 3207.3) of this rule.

(6)3205.6 Designation of storage heights. Where required by the fire code official, a visual method of indicating the maximum allowable storage height shall be provided.

(7)3205.7 Arrays. Arrays shall comply with paragraph (G)(4)( 3207.4) of this rule.

(8)3205.8 Flue spaces. Flue spaces shall comply with paragraph (H)(3)( 3208.3) of this rule.

(F)Section 3206 General fire protection and life safety features

(1)3206.1 General. Fire protection and life safety features for high-piled storage areas shall be in accordance with paragraphs (F)(2)( 3206.2) to (F)(10)( 3206.10) of this rule.

(2)3206.2 Extent and type of protection. Where required by Table 3206.2of this rule, fire detection systems, smoke and heat removal, and automatic sprinkler design densities shall extend the lesser of 15 feet (4572 mm) beyond the high-piled storage area or to a permanent partition. Where portions of high-piled storage areas have different fire protection requirements because of commodity, method of storage or storage height, the fire protection features required by Table 3206.2of this rule within this area shall be based on the most restrictive design requirements.

Table 3206.2

General fire protection and life safety requirements

Commodity class	Size of high-piled storage area^a (square feet) (see paragraphs (F)(2)( 3206.2) and (F)(4)( 3206.4) of this rule)	*All storage areas (see paragraphs* (F)(3206), (G)(3207) and (H)(3208) of this rule)^b**				Solid-piled storage, shelf storage and palletized storage (see paragraph *(G)(3)( 3207.3) of this rule)*
Commodity class		*Automatic fire extinguishing system (see paragraph* (F)(4)( 3206.4) of this rule)**	*Fire detection system (see paragraph* (F)(5)( 3206.5) of this rule)**	*Building access (see paragraph* (F)(6)( 3206.6) of this rule)**	*Smoke and heat removal (see paragraph* (F)(7)( 3206.7) of this rule)**	Maximum pile dimension^c (feet)	Maximum permissible storage height^d (feet)	Maximum pile volume (cubic feet)
I-IV	0-500	Not requireda	Not required	Not required^e	Not required	Not required	Not required	Not required
	501-2,500	Not requireda	Yesi	Not required^e	Not required	100	40	100,000
	2,501-12,000 Public accessible	Yes	Not required	Not required^e	Not required	100	40	400,000
	2,501-12,000 Nonpublic accessible (Option 1)	Yes	Not required	Not required^e	Not required	100	40	400,000
	2,501-12,000 Nonpublic accessible (Option 2)	Not required^a	Yes	Yes	Yes^j	100	30^f	200,000
	12,001-20,000	Yes	Not required	Yes	Yes^j	100	40	400,000
	20,001-500,000	Yes	Not required	Yes	Yes^j	100	40	400,000
	Greater than 500,000^g	Yes	Not required	Yes	Yes^j	100	40	400,000
High Hazard	0-500	Not required^a	Not required	Not required^e	Not required	50	Not required	Not required
	501-2,500 Public accessible	Yes	Not required	Not required^e	Not required	50	30	75,000
	501-2,500 Nonpublic accessible (Option 1)	Yes	Not required	Not required^e	Not required	50	30	75,000
	501-2,500 Nonpublic accessible (Option 2)	Not required^a	Yes	Yes	Yes^j	50	20	50,000
	2,501-300,000	Yes	Not required	Yes	Yes^j	50	30	75,000
	300,001-500,000^g,h	Yes	Not required	Yes	Yes^j	50	30	75,000

For SI: 1 foot =304.8 mm, 1 cubic foot =0.02832 m3; 1 square foot =0.0929 m².

a. Where automatic sprinklers are required for reasons other than those in this rule, the portion of the sprinkler system protecting the high-piled storage area shall be designed and installed in accordance with paragraphs (G)(3207) and (H)(3208) of this rule.

b. For aisles, see paragraph (F)(9)( 3206.9) of this rule.

c. Piles shall be separated by aisles complying with paragraph (F)(9)( 3206.9) of this rule.

d. For storage in excess of the height indicated, special fire protection shall be provided in accordance with Note g where required by the fire code official. See also rule 1301:7-7-51 and rule 1301:7-7-57 of the Administrative Code for special limitations for aerosols and flammable and combustible liquids, respectively.

e. Paragraph (C)(503) of rule 1301:7-7-05 of the Administrative Code shall apply for fire apparatus access.

f. For storage exceeding 30 feet in height, Option 1 shall be used.

g. Special fire protection provisions including, but not limited to, fire protection of exposed steel columns; increased sprinkler density; additional in-rack sprinklers, without associated reductions in ceiling sprinkler density; or additional fire department hose connections shall be provided where required by the fire code official.

h. High-piled storage areas shall not exceed 500,000 square feet. A 2-hour fire wall constructed in accordance with section 706 of the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the AdministrativeCode shall be used to divide high-piled storage areas exceeding 500,000 square feet in area.

i. Not required where an automatic fire-extinguishing system is designed and installed to protect the high-piled storage area in accordance with paragraphs (G)(3207) and (H)(3208) of this rule.

j. Not required where storage areas are protected by either early suppression fast response (ESFR) sprinkler systems or control mode special application sprinklers with a response time index of 50 (ms)^1/2 or less that are listed to control a fire in the stored commodities with 12 or fewer sprinklers, installed in accordance with NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(3)3206.3 Separation of high-piled storage areas. High-piled storage areas shall be separated from other portions of the building where required by paragraphs (F)(3)(a)(3206.3.1) to (F)(3)(b)(ii)(3206.3.2.2) of this rule.

(a)3206.3.1 Separation from other uses. Mixed occupancies shall be separated in accordance with the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(b)3206.3.2 Multiple high-piled storage areas. Multiple high-piled storage areas shall be in accordance with paragraph (F)(3)(b)(i)(3206.3.2.1) or (F)(3)(b)(ii)(3206.3.2.2) of this rule.

(i)3206.3.2.1 Aggregate area. The aggregate of all high-piled storage areas within a building shall be used for application of Table 3206.2of this rule unless such areas are separated from each other by 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with section 707 of the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code. Openings in such fire barriers shall be protected by opening protectives having a 1-hour fire protection rating.

(ii)3206.3.2.2 Multiclass high-piled storage areas. High-piled storage areas classified as Class I through IV not separated from high-piled storage areas classified as high hazard shall utilize the aggregate of all high-piled storage areas as high hazard for purposes of the application of Table 3206.2of this rule. To be considered as separated, 1-hour fire barrier shall be constructed in accordance with section 707 of the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code. Openings in such fire barriers shall be protected by opening protectives having a 1-hour fire protection rating.

Exception: As provided for in paragraph (D)(2)( 3204.2) of this rule.

(4)3206.4 Automatic sprinklers. Automatic sprinkler systems shall be provided in accordance with paragraphs (G)(3207), (H)(3208) and (I)(3209) of this rule.

(a)3206.4.1 Pallets. Automatic sprinkler system requirements based on the presence of pallets shall be in accordance with NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(i)3206.4.1.1 Plastic pallets. Plastic pallets listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2335 or FM 4996 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code shall be treated as wood pallets for determining required sprinkler protection.

(5)3206.5 Fire detection. Where fire detection is required by Table 3206.2of this rule, an approved automatic fire detection system shall be installed throughout the high-piled storage area. The system shall be monitored and be in accordance with paragraph (G)(907) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code.

(6)3206.6 Building access. Where building access is required by Table 3206.2of this rule, fire apparatus access roads in accordance with paragraph (C)(503) of rule 1301:7-7-05 of the Administrative Code shall be provided within 150 feet (45 720 mm) of all portions of the exterior walls of buildings used for high-piled storage.

Exception: Where fire apparatus access roads cannot be installed because of topography, railways, waterways, nonnegotiable grades or other similar conditions, the fire code official is authorized to require additional fire protection.

(a)3206.6.1 Access doors. Where building access is required by Table 3206.2of this rule, fire department access doors shall be provided in accordance with this paragraph. Access doors shall be accessible without the use of a ladder.

(i)3206.6.1.1 Number of doors required. Not less than one access door shall be provided in each 100 linear feet (30480 mm), or fraction thereof, of the exterior walls that face required fire apparatus access roads. The required access doors shall be distributed such that the lineal distance between adjacent access doors does not exceed 100 feet (30480 mm).

Exception: The linear distance between adjacent access doors is allowed to exceed 100 feet (30480 mm) in existing buildings where no change in occupancy is proposed. The number and distribution of access doors in existing buildings shall be approved.

(ii)3206.6.1.2 Door size and type. Access doors shall be not less than 3 feet (914 mm) in width and 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) in height. Roll-up doors shall not be used unless approved.

(iii)3206.6.1.3 Locking devices. Only approved locking devices shall be used.

(7)3206.7 Smoke and heat removal. Where smoke and heat removal is required by Table 3206.2of this rule, it shall be provided in accordance with paragraph (J)(910) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code.

(8)3206.8 Fire department hose connections. Where exit passageways are required by the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code for egress, a Class I standpipe system shall be provided in accordance with paragraph (E)(905) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code.

(9)3206.9 Aisles. Aisles providing access to exits and fire department access doors shall be provided in high-piled storage areas exceeding 500 square feet (46 m²), in accordance with paragraphs (F)(9)(a)(3206.9.1) to (F)(9)(c)(3206.9.3) of this rule. Aisles separating storage piles or racks shall comply with NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code. Aisles shall also comply with rule 1301:7-7-10 of the Administrative Code.

Exception: Where aisles are precluded by rack storage systems, alternate methods of access and protection are allowed when approved.

(a)3206.9.1 Width. Aisle width shall be in accordance with paragraphs (F)(9)(a)(i)(3206.9.1.1) and (F)(9)(a)(ii)(3206.9.1.2) of this rule.

Exceptions

1. Aisles crossing rack structures or storage piles, that are used only for employee access, shall be not less than 24 inches (610 mm) wide.

2. Aisles separating shelves classified as shelf storage shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) wide.

(i)3206.9.1.1 Sprinklered buildings. Aisles in sprinklered buildings shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm) wide. Aisles shall be not less than 96 inches (2438 mm) wide in high-piled storage areas exceeding 2,500 square feet (232 m²) in area, that are accessible to the public and designated to contain high-hazard commodities.

Exception: Aisles in high-piled storage areas exceeding 2,500 square feet (232 m²) in area, that are accessible to the public and designated to contain high-hazard commodities, are protected by a sprinkler system designed for multiple-row racks of high-hazard commodities shall be not less than 44 inches (1118 mm) wide.

Aisles shall be not less than 96 inches (2438 mm) wide in areas accessible to the public where mechanical stocking methods are used.

(ii)3206.9.1.2 Nonsprinklered buildings. Aisles in nonsprinklered buildings shall be not less than 96 inches (2438 mm) wide.

(b)3206.9.2 Clear height. The required aisle width shall extend from floor to ceiling. Rack structural supports and catwalks are allowed to cross aisles at a minimum height of 6 feet 8 inches (2032 mm) above the finished floor level, provided that such supports do not interfere with fire department hose stream trajectory.

(c)3206.9.3 Dead-end aisles. Dead-end aisles shall not exceed 20 feet (6096 mm) in length in Group M occupancies. Dead-end aisles shall not exceed 50 feet (15 240 mm) in length in all other occupancies.

Exception: Dead-end aisles are not limited where the length of the dead-end aisle is less than 2.5 times the least width of the dead-end aisle.

(10)3206.10 Portable fire extinguishers. Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided in accordance with paragraph (F)(906) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code.

(G)Section 3207 Solid-piled and shelf storage

(1)3207.1 General. Shelf storage and storage in solid piles, solid piles on pallets and bin box storage in bin boxes not exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm) in any dimension, shall be in accordance with paragraph (F)(3206) of this rule and this paragraph.

(2)3207.2 Fire protection. Where automatic sprinklers are required by Table 3206.2of this rule, an approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building or to 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with section 707 of the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code. Openings in such fire barriers shall be protected by opening protectives having a 1-hour fire protection rating. The design and installation of the automatic sprinkler system and other applicable fire protection shall be in accordance with the building code and NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(a)3207.2.1 Shelf storage. Shelf storage greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) but less than 15 feet (4572 mm) in height shall be in accordance with the fire protection requirements set forth in NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code Shelf storage 15 feet (4572 mm) or more in height shall be protected in an approved manner with special fire protection, such as in-rack sprinklers.

(3)3207.3 Pile dimension and height limitations. Pile dimensions, the maximum permissible storage height and pile volume shall be in accordance with Table 3206.2of this rule.

(4)3207.4 Array. Where an automatic sprinkler system design utilizes protection based on a closed array, array clearances shall be provided and maintained as specified by the standard used.

(H)Section 3208 Rack storage

(1)3208.1 General. Rack storage shall be in accordance with paragraph (F)(3206) of this rule and this paragraph. Bin boxes exceeding 5 feet (1524 mm) in any dimension shall be regulated as rack storage.

(2)3208.2 Fire protection. Where automatic sprinklers are required by Table 3206.2of this rule, an approved automatic sprinkler system shall be installed throughout the building or to 1-hour fire barriers constructed in accordance with section 707 of the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code. Openings in such fire barriers shall be protected by opening protectives having a 1-hour fire protection rating. The design and installation of the automatic sprinkler system and other applicable fire protection shall be in accordance with paragraph (C)(3)(a)(i)(903.3.1.1) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code and the building code as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(a)3208.2.1 Plastic shelves. Storage on plastic shelves shall be protected by approved specially engineered fire protection systems.

(b)3208.2.2 Racks with solid shelving. Racks with solid shelving having an area greater than 20 square feet ( 1.9 m²), measured between approved flue spaces at all four edges of the shelf, shall be in accordance with this paragraph.

Exceptions:

1. Racks with mesh, grated, slatted or similar shelves having uniform openings not more than 6 inches (152 mm) apart, comprising not less than 50 per cent of overall shelf area, and with approved flue spaces are allowed to be treated as racks without solid shelves.

2. Racks used for the storage of combustible paper records, with solid shelving, shall be in accordance with NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(i)3208.2.2.1 Fire protection. Fire protection for racks with solid shelving shall be in accordance with NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(3)3208.3 Flue spaces. Flue spaces shall be provided in accordance with Table 3208.3of this rule. Required flue spaces shall be maintained.

(a)3208.3.1 Flue space protection. Where required by the fire code official, flue spaces required by Table 3208.3of this rule, in single-, double- or multiple-row rack storage installations shall be equipped with approved devices to protect the required flue spaces. Such devices shall not be removed or modified.

Table 3208.3

Required flue spaces for rack storage

Rack configuration	Automatic sprinkler protection		Sprinkler at the ceiling with or without minimum in-rack sprinklers			In-rack sprinklers at every tier	Non-sprinklered
	Automatic sprinkler protection		<=25 feet		>25 feet	Any height	Any height
	Storage height		Option 1	Option 2	>25 feet	Any height	Any height
Single-row rack	Transverse Flue space	Size^b	3 inches	Not applicable	3 inches	Not required	Not required
	Transverse Flue space	Vertically aligned	Not required	Not applicable	Yes	Not applicable	Not required
	Longitudinal flue space		Not required	Not applicable	Not required	Not required	Not required
Double-row rack	Transverse Flue space	Size^b	6 inches^a	3 inches	3 inches	Not required	Not required
	Transverse Flue space	Vertically aligned	Not required	Not required	Yes	Not applicable	Not required
	Longitudinal flue space		Not required	6 inches	6 inches	Not required	Not required
Multi-row rack	Transverse Flue space	Size^b	6 inches	Not applicable	6 inches	Not required	Not required
	Transverse Flue space	Vertically aligned	Not required	Not applicable	Yes	Not applicable	Not required
	Longitudinal flue space		Not required	Not applicable	Not required	Not required	Not required

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

a. Three-inch transverse flue spaces shall be provided at least every 10 feet where ESFR sprinkler protection is provided.

b. Random variations are allowed, provided that the configuration does not obstruct water penetration.

(4)3208.4 Column protection. Steel building columns shall be protected in accordance with NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code.

(5)3208.5 Extra-high-rack storage systems. Approval of the fire code official shall be obtained prior to installing extra-high-rack combustible storage.

(a)3208.5.1 Fire protection. Buildings with extra-high-rack combustible storage shall be protected with a specially engineered automatic sprinkler system. Extra-high-rack combustible storage shall be provided with additional special fire protection, such as separation from other buildings and additional built-in fire protection features and fire department access, where required by the fire code official.

(I)Section 3209 Automated storage

(1)3209.1 General. Automated storage shall be in accordance with this paragraph.

(2)3209.2 Automatic sprinklers. Where automatic sprinklers are required by Table 3206.2of this rule, the building shall be equipped throughout with an approved automatic sprinkler system in accordance with paragraph (C)(3)(a)(i)(9033.1.1) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code.

(3)3209.3 Carousel storage. High-piled storage areas having greater than 500 square feet (46 m²) of carousel storage shall be provided with automatic shutdown in accordance with one of the following:

(a) An automatic smoke detection system installed in accordance with paragraph (G)(907) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code, with coverage extending 15 feet (4575 mm) in all directions beyond unenclosed carousel storage systems and that sounds a local alarm at the operator's station and stops the carousel storage system upon the activation of a single detector.

(b) An automatic smoke detection system installed in accordance with paragraph (G)(907) of rule 1301:7-7-09 of the Administrative Code and within enclosed carousel storage systems, that sounds a local alarm at the operator's station and stops the carousel storage system upon the activation of a single detector.

(c) A single dead-man-type control switch that allows the operation of the carousel storage system only when the operator is present. The switch shall be in the same room as the carousel storage system and located to provide for observation of the carousel system.

(4)3209.4 Automated rack storage. High-piled storage areas with automated rack storage shall be provided with a manually activated emergency shutdown switch for use by emergency personnel. The switch shall be clearly identified and shall be in a location approved by the fire code official.

(J)Section 3210 Specialty storage

(1)3210.1 General. Records storage facilities used for the rack or shelf storage of combustible paper records greater than 12 feet (3658 mm) in height shall be in accordance with paragraphs (F)(3206) and (H)(3208) of this rule and NFPA 13 as listed in rule 1301:7-7-80 of the Administrative Code. Palletized storage of records shall be in accordance with paragraph (G)(3207) of this rule.

Replaces: 1301:7-7-32

Ohio Admin. Code 1301:7-7-32

Effective: 1/5/2019
Five Year Review (FYR) Dates: 12/15/2022
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 3737.22, 3737.82, 3737.83
Rule Amplifies: 3737.22, 3737.82, 3737.83
Prior Effective Dates: 07/01/1979, 06/01/1985, 06/15/1992, 07/01/1993, 11/27/1993, 09/01/1995, 01/09/1998, 01/03/2000, 09/01/2005, 07/01/2007, 11/01/2011, 12/15/2017