This chapter shall apply to locations or areas where any of the following activities are conducted:
- The application of flammable finishes to articles or materials by means of spray apparatus.
- The application of flammable finishes by dipping or immersing articles or materials into the contents of tanks, vats or containers of flammable or combustible liquids for coating, finishing, treatment or similar processes.
- The application of flammable finishes by applying combustible powders to articles or materials utilizing powder spray guns, electrostatic powder spray guns, fluidized beds or electrostatic fluidized beds.
- Floor surfacing or finishing operations using Class I or II liquids in areas exceeding 350 square feet (32.5 m2).
- The application of flammable finishes consisting of dual-component coatings or Class I or II liquids where applied by brush or roller in quantities exceeding 1 gallon (4 L).
This chapter shall not apply to spray finishing utilizing flammable or combustible liquids that do not sustain combustion, including:
- Liquids that do not have a fire point when tested in accordance with ASTM D92.
- Liquids with a flashpoint greater than 95°F (35°C) in a water-miscible solution or dispersion with a water and inert (noncombustible) solids content of more than 80 percent by weight.
Electrical wiring and equipment shall comply with this chapter and NFPA 70.
Electrical wiring and equipment in flammable vapor areas shall be of an explosionproof type approved for use in such hazardous locations. Such areas shall be considered to be Class I, Division 1 or Class II, Division 1 hazardous locations in accordance with NFPA 70.
Electrical equipment, flammable vapor areas or drying operations that are subject to splashing or dripping of liquids shall be specifically approved for locations containing deposits of readily ignitable residue and explosive vapors.
Exceptions:
- This provision shall not apply to wiring in rigid conduit, threaded boxes or fittings not containing taps, splices or terminal connections.
- This provision shall not apply to electrostatic equipment allowed by Section 2407.
In resin application areas, electrical wiring and equipment that is subject to deposits of combustible residues shall be listed for such exposure and shall be installed as required for hazardous (classified) locations. Electrical wiring and equipment not subject to deposits of combustible residues shall be installed as required for ordinary hazard locations.
Electrical wiring and equipment located outside of, but within 3 feet (914 mm) of openings in a spray booth or a spray room, shall be approved for Class I, Division 2 or Class II, Division 2 hazardous locations, whichever is applicable.
Electrical equipment in flammable vapor areas located such that deposits of combustible residues could readily accumulate thereon shall be specifically approved for locations containing deposits of readily ignitable residue and explosive vapors in accordance with NFPA 70.
Exceptions:
- Wiring in rigid conduit.
- Boxes or fittings not containing taps, splices or terminal connections.
- Equipment allowed by Sections 2404 and 2407 and Chapter 30.
Open flames and spark-producing devices shall not be located in flammable vapor areas and shall not be located within 20 feet (6096 mm) of such areas unless separated by a permanent partition.
Exception: Drying and baking apparatus complying with Section 2404.6.1.2.
Heated surfaces having a temperature sufficient to ignite vapors shall not be located in flammable vapor areas. Space-heating appliances, steam pipes or hot surfaces in a flammable vapor area shall be located such that they are not subject to accumulation of deposits of combustible residues.
Exception: Drying apparatus complying with Section 2404.6.1.2.
Equipment or apparatus that is capable of producing sparks or particles of hot metal that would fall into a flammable vapor area shall be totally enclosed.
Metal parts of spray booths, exhaust ducts and piping systems conveying Class I or II liquids shall be electrically grounded in accordance with NFPA 70. Metallic parts located in resin application areas, including but not limited to exhaust ducts, ventilation fans, spray application equipment, workpieces and piping, shall be electrically grounded.
Smoking shall be prohibited in flammable vapor areas and hazardous materials storage rooms associated with flammable finish processes. "No Smoking" signs complying with Section 310 shall be conspicuously posted in such areas.
Welding, cutting and similar spark-producing operations shall not be conducted in or adjacent to flammable vapor areas or dipping or coating operations unless precautions have been taken to provide safety. Conspicuous signs with the following warning shall be posted in the vicinity of flammable vapor areas, dipping operations and paint storage rooms:
The storage, use and handling of flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with this section and Chapter 57.
Containers supplying spray nozzles shall be of a closed type or provided with metal covers that are kept closed. Containers not resting on floors shall be on noncombustible supports or suspended by wire cables. Containers supplying spray nozzles by gravity flow shall not exceed 10 gallons (37.9 L) in capacity.
Containers and piping to which a hose or flexible connection is attached shall be provided with a shutoff valve at the connection. Such valves shall be kept shut when hoses are not in use.
Where flammable or combustible liquids are supplied to spray nozzles by positive displacement pumps, pump discharge lines shall be provided with an approved relief valve discharging to pump suction or a safe detached location.
Where a flammable mixture is transferred from one portable container to another, a bond shall be provided between the two containers. Not less than one container shall be grounded. Piping systems for Class I and II liquids shall be permanently grounded.
Class I liquids used as solvents shall be used in spray gun and equipment cleaning machines that have been listed and approved for such purpose or shall be used in spray booths or spray rooms in accordance with Sections 2403.3.5.1 and 2403.3.5.2.
Cleaning machines for spray guns and equipment shall not be located in areas open to the public and shall be separated from ignition sources in accordance with their listings or by a distance of 3 feet (914 mm), whichever is greater. The quantity of solvent used in a machine shall not exceed the design capacity of the machine.
Where solvents are used for cleaning spray nozzles and auxiliary equipment within spray booths and spray rooms, the ventilating equipment shall be operated during cleaning.
Solvents used outside of spray booths, spray rooms or listed and approved spray gun and equipment cleaning machines shall be restricted to Class II and III liquids.
Flammable vapor areas, exhaust fan blades and exhaust ducts shall be kept free from the accumulation of deposits of combustible residues. Where excessive residue accumulates in such areas, spraying operations shall be discontinued until conditions are corrected.
Scrapers, spuds and other tools used for cleaning purposes shall be constructed of nonsparking materials.
Residues removed during cleaning and debris contaminated with residue shall be immediately removed from the premises and properly disposed.
Approved metal waste cans equipped with self-closing lids shall be provided wherever rags or waste are impregnated with finishing material. Such rags and waste shall be deposited therein immediately after being utilized. The contents of waste cans shall be properly disposed of not less than once daily and at the end of each shift.
Solvent distillation equipment used to recycle and clean dirty solvents shall comply with Section 5705.4.
The application of flammable or combustible liquids by means of spray apparatus in continuous or intermittent processes shall be in accordance with the requirements of Sections 2403 and 2404.2 through 2404.9.4.
Spray finishing operations conducted in buildings areas used for
Group A, E, I or R occupancies shall be located in a spray room protected with an approved automatic sprinkler
system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1 and separated vertically and horizontally from any other
areas in accordance with the International Building Code. In other occupancies, spray-finishing operations shall be
conducted in a spray room, spray booth, or spraying space approved for such use.
Exceptions:
- Automobile undercoating spray operations and spray-on automotive lining operations conducted in areas with approved natural or mechanical ventilation shall be exempt from the provisions of Section 2404 when approved and where utilizing Class IIIA or IIIB combustible liquids.
- In buildings other than Group A, E, I or R occupancies, approved limited spraying space in accordance with Section 2404.9.
- Resin application areas used for manufacturing of reinforced plastics complying with Section 2409 shall not be required to be located in a spray room, spray booth or spraying space.
Design and construction of spray rooms, spray booths and spray spaces shall be in accordance with Sections 2404.3.1 through 2404.3.3.1.
Spray rooms shall be constructed and designed in accordance with Section 416 of the International Building Code and Section 2404.3.2 of this code, and shall comply with Sections 2404.4 through 2404.8 of this code.
Combustible floor construction in spray rooms shall be covered by approved, noncombustible, nonsparking material, except where combustible coverings, including but not limited to thin paper or plastic and strippable coatings, are utilized over noncombustible materials to facilitate cleaning operations in spray rooms.
The design and construction of spray booths shall be in accordance with Sections 2404.3.3.1 through 2404.3.3.6, Sections 2404.4 through 2404.8 and NFPA 33.
Spray booths shall be constructed of approved noncombustible materials. Aluminum shall not be used. Where walls or ceiling assemblies are constructed of sheet metal, single-skin assemblies shall be not thinner than 0.0478 inch (18 gage) (1.2 mm) and each sheet of double-skin assemblies shall be not thinner than 0.0359 inch (20 gage) (0.9 mm). Structural sections of spray booths are allowed to be sealed with latex-based or similar caulks and sealants.
The interior surfaces of spray booths shall be smooth; shall be constructed so as to permit the free passage of exhaust air from all parts of the interior, and to facilitate washing and cleaning; and shall be designed to confine residues within the booth. Aluminum shall not be used.
Combustible floor construction in spray booths shall be covered by approved, noncombustible, nonsparking material, except where combustible coverings, including but not limited to thin paper or plastic and strippable coatings, are utilized over noncombustible materials to facilitate cleaning operations in spray booths.
Means of egress shall be provided in accordance with Chapter 10.
Exception: Means of egress doors from premanufactured spray booths shall be not less than 30 inches (762 mm) in width by 80 inches (2032 mm) in height.
Spray booths shall be installed so that all parts of the booth are able to be accessed for cleaning. A clear space of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) shall be maintained on all sides of the spray booth. This clear space shall be kept free of any storage or combustible construction.
Exceptions:
- This requirement shall not prohibit locating a spray booth closer than 3 feet (914 mm) to or directly against an interior partition, wall or floor/ceiling assembly that has a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour, provided that the spray booth can be adequately maintained and cleaned.
- This requirement shall not prohibit locating a spray booth closer than 3 feet (914 mm) to an exterior wall or a roof assembly, provided that the wall or roof is constructed of noncombustible material and the spray booth can be adequately maintained and cleaned.
The aggregate area of spray booths in a building shall not exceed the lesser of 10 percent of the area of any floor of a building or the basic area allowed for a Group H-2 occupancy without area increases, as set forth in the International Building Code. The area of an individual spray booth in a building shall not exceed the lesser of the aggregate size limit or 1,500 square feet (139 m2).
Exception: One individual booth not exceeding 500 square feet (46 m2).
Spraying spaces shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the International Building Code, and Section 2404.3.4.1 and Sections 2404.4 through 2404.8 of this code.
Combustible floor construction in spraying spaces shall be covered by approved, noncombustible, nonsparking material, except where combustible coverings, such as thin paper or plastic and strippable coatings, are utilized over noncombustible materials to facilitate cleaning operations in spraying spaces.
Spray booths and spray rooms shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system complying with Chapter 9. Protection shall extend to exhaust plenums, exhaust ducts and both sides of dry filters where such filters are used.
Portable fire extinguishers complying with Section 906 shall be provided for spraying areas in accordance with the requirements for an extra (high) hazard occupancy.
Spray booths, spray rooms and spraying spaces shall not be alternately utilized for different types of coating materials where the combination of materials is conducive to spontaneous ignition, unless all deposits of one material are removed from the booth, room or space and exhaust ducts prior to spraying with a different material.
Automatic sprinklers installed in flammable vapor areas shall be protected from the accumulation of residue from spraying operations in an approved manner. Bags used as a protective covering shall be 0.003-inch-thick (0.076 mm) polyethylene or cellophane or shall be thin paper. Automatic sprinklers contaminated by overspray particles shall be replaced with new automatic sprinklers.
Control of sources of ignition shall be in accordance with Section 2403.2 and Sections 2404.6.1 through 2404.6.2.4.
Spray booths and spray rooms shall not be alternately used for the purpose of drying by arrangements or methods that could cause an increase in the surface temperature of the spray booth or spray room except in accordance with Sections 2404.6.1.1 and 2404.6.1.2. Except as specifically provided in this section, drying or baking units utilizing a heating system having open flames or that are capable of producing sparks shall not be installed in a flammable vapor areas.
The spraying procedure shall use low-volume spray application.
Fixed drying apparatus shall comply with this chapter and the applicable provisions of Chapter 30. Where recirculation ventilation is provided in accordance with Section 2404.7.2, the heating system shall not be within the recirculation air path.
The spraying apparatus, drying apparatus and ventilating system for the spray booth or spray room shall be equipped with interlocks arranged to accomplish all of the following:
- Prevent operation of the spraying apparatus while drying operations are in progress.
- Where the drying apparatus is located in the spray booth or spray room, prevent operation of the drying apparatus until a timed purge of spray vapors from the spray booth or spray room is complete. This purge time shall be based on completing not fewer than four air changes of spray booth or spray room volume or for a period of not less than 3 minutes, whichever is greater.
- Have the ventilating system maintain a safe atmosphere within the spray booth or spray room during the drying process and automatically shut off drying apparatus in the event of a failure of the ventilating system.
- Shut off the drying apparatus automatically if the air temperature within the booth exceeds 200°F (93°C).
Where a portable infrared drying apparatus is used, electrical wiring and portable infrared drying equipment shall comply with NFPA 70. Electrical equipment located within 18 inches (457 mm) of floor level shall be approved for Class I, Division 2 hazardous locations. Metallic parts of drying apparatus shall be electrically bonded and grounded. During spraying operations, portable drying apparatus and electrical connections and wiring thereto shall not be located within spray booths, spray rooms or other areas where spray residue would be deposited thereon.
Where spraying spaces, spray rooms or spray booths are illuminated through glass panels or other transparent materials, only fixed luminaires shall be utilized as a source of illumination.
Panels for luminaires or for observation shall be of heat-treated glass, wired glass or hammered wire glass and shall be sealed to confine vapors, mists, residues, dusts and deposits to the flammable vapor area. Panels for luminaires shall be separated from the luminaire to prevent the surface temperature of the panel from exceeding 200°F (93°C).
Luminaires attached to the walls or ceilings of a flammable vapor area, but outside of any classified area and separated from the flammable vapor areas by vapor-tight glass panels, shall be suitable for use in ordinary hazard locations. Such luminaires shall be serviced from outside the flammable vapor areas.
Luminaires that are an integral part of the walls or ceiling of a flammable vapor area are allowed to be separated from the flammable vapor area by glass panels that are an integral part of the luminaire. Such luminaires shall be listed for use in Class I, Division 2 or Class II, Division 2 locations, whichever is applicable, and shall be suitable for accumulations of deposits of combustible residues. Such luminaires are allowed to be serviced from inside the flammable vapor area.
Portable electric lamps shall not be used in flammable vapor areas during spraying operations. Portable electric lamps used during cleaning or repairing operations shall be of a type approved for hazardous locations.
Mechanical ventilation of flammable vapor areas shall be provided in accordance with Section 502.7 of the International Mechanical Code.
Mechanical ventilation shall be kept in operation at all times while spraying operations are being conducted and for a sufficient time thereafter to allow vapors from drying coated articles and finishing material residue to be exhausted. Spraying equipment shall be interlocked with the ventilation of the flammable vapor areas such that spraying operations cannot be conducted unless the ventilation system is in operation.
Air exhausted from spraying operations shall not be recirculated.
Exceptions:
- Air exhausted from spraying operations is allowed to be recirculated as makeup air for unmanned spray operations, provided that all of the following conditions exist:
- 1.1. The solid particulate has been removed.
- 1.2. The vapor concentration is less than 25 percent of the LFL.
- 1.3. Approved equipment is used to monitor the vapor concentration.
- 1.4. When the vapor concentration exceeds 25 percent of the LFL, both of the following shall occur:
- 1.4.1. An alarm shall sound.
- 1.4.2. Spray operations shall automatically shut down.
- 1.5. In the event of shutdown of the vapor concentration monitor, 100 percent of the air volume specified in Section 510 of the International Mechanical Code is automatically exhausted.
- Air exhausted from spraying operations is allowed to be recirculated as makeup air to manned spraying operations where all of the conditions provided in Exception 1 are included in the installation and documents have been prepared to show that the installation does not pose a life safety hazard to personnel inside the spray booth, spraying space or spray room.
The ventilation system shall be designed, installed and maintained so that the flammable contaminants are diluted in noncontaminated air to maintain concentrations in the exhaust airflow below 25 percent of the contaminant's lower flammable limit (LFL). In addition, the spray booth shall be provided with mechanical ventilation so that the average air velocity through openings is in accordance with Sections 2404.7.3.1 and 2404.7.3.2.
For spray application operations conducted in an open-face or open-front spray booth, the ventilation system shall be designed, installed and maintained so that the average air velocity into the spray booth through all openings is not less than 100 feet per minute (0.51 m/s).
Exception: For fixed or automated electrostatic spray application equipment, the average air velocity into the spray booth through all openings shall be not less than 50 feet per minute (0.25 m/s).
For spray application operations conducted in an enclosed spray booth or spray room with openings for product conveyance, the ventilation system shall be designed, installed and maintained so that the average air velocity into the spray booth through openings is not less than 100 feet per minute (0.51 m/s).
Exceptions:
- For fixed or automated electrostatic spray application equipment, the average air velocity into the spray booth through all openings shall be not less than 50 feet per minute (0.25 m/s).
- Where methods are used to reduce cross drafts that can draw vapors and overspray through openings from the spray booth or spray room, the average air velocity into the spray booth or spray room shall be that necessary to capture and confine vapors and overspray to the spray booth or spray room.
Articles being sprayed shall be positioned in a manner that does not obstruct collection of overspray.
Each spray booth and spray room shall have an independent exhaust duct system discharging to the outside.
Exceptions:
- Multiple spray booths having a combined frontal area of 18 square feet (1.67 m2) or less are allowed to have a common exhaust where identical spray finishing material is used in each booth. If more than one fan serves one booth, fans shall be interconnected such that all fans will operate simultaneously.
- Where treatment of exhaust is necessary for air pollution control or for energy conservation, ducts shall be allowed to be manifolded if all of the following conditions are met:
- 2.1. The sprayed materials used are compatible and will not react or cause ignition of the residue in the ducts.
- 2.2. Nitrocellulose-based finishing material shall not be used.
- 2.3. A filtering system shall be provided to reduce the amount of overspray carried into the duct manifold.
- 2.4. Automatic sprinkler protection shall be provided at the junction of each booth exhaust with the manifold, in addition to the protection required by this chapter.
The termination point for exhaust ducts discharging to the atmosphere shall be not less than the following distances:
- Ducts conveying explosive or flammable vapors, fumes or dusts: 30 feet (9144 mm) from the lot line; 10 feet (3048 mm) from openings into the building; 6 feet (1829 mm) from exterior walls and roofs; 30 feet (9144 mm) from combustible walls or openings into the building that are in the direction of the exhaust discharge; 10 feet (3048 mm) above adjoining grade.
- Other product-conveying outlets: 10 feet (3048 mm) from the lot line; 3 feet (914 mm) from exterior walls and roofs; 10 feet (3048 mm) from openings into the building; 10 feet (3048 mm) above adjoining grade.
Electric motors driving exhaust fans shall not be placed inside booths or ducts. Fan rotating elements shall be nonferrous or nonsparking or the casing shall consist of, or be lined with, such material. Belts shall not enter the duct or booth unless the belt and pulley within the duct are tightly enclosed.
Air intake filters that are part of a wall or ceiling assembly shall be listed as Class I or II in accordance with UL 900. Exhaust filters shall be required.
Supports and holders for filters shall be constructed of noncombustible materials.
Overspray collection filters shall be readily removable and able to be accessed for cleaning or replacement.
Visible gauges, audible alarms or pressure-activated devices shall be installed to indicate or ensure that the required air velocity is maintained.
Spray booths equipped with a filter roll that is automatically advanced when the air velocity is reduced to less than 100 feet per minute (0.51 m/s) shall be arranged to shut down the spraying operation if the filter roll fails to advance automatically.
Discarded filter pads shall be immediately removed to a safe, detached location or placed in a noncombustible container with a tight-fitting lid and disposed of properly.
Spray booths using dry filters shall not be used for spraying materials that are highly susceptible to spontaneous heating and ignition. Filters shall be changed prior to spraying materials that could react with other materials previously collected. An example of a potentially reactive combination includes lacquer when combined with varnishes, stains or primers.
Waterwash spray booths shall be of an approved design so as to prevent excessive accumulation of deposits in ducts and residue at duct outlets. Such booths shall be arranged so that air and overspray are drawn through a continuously flowing water curtain before entering an exhaust duct to the building exterior.
Where protecting automated spray application operations, automatic fire-extinguishing systems shall be equipped with an approved interlock feature that will, upon discharge of the system, automatically stop the spraying operations and workpiece conveyors into and out of the flammable vapor areas. Where the building is equipped with a fire alarm system, discharge of the automatic fire-extinguishing system shall also activate the building alarm notification appliances.
A manual fire alarm and emergency system shutdown station shall be installed to serve each flammable vapor area. When activated, the station shall accomplish the functions indicated in Section 2404.8.1.
Not less than one manual fire alarm and emergency system shutdown station shall be provided with ready access for operating personnel. Where access to this station is likely to involve exposure to danger, an additional station shall be located adjacent to an exit from the area.
Air makeup and flammable vapor area exhaust systems shall not be interlocked with the fire alarm system and shall remain in operation during a fire alarm condition.
Exception: Where the type of fire-extinguishing system used requires such ventilation to be discontinued, air makeup and exhaust systems shall shut down and dampers shall close.
The aggregate surface area to be sprayed shall not exceed 9 square feet (0.84 m2).
Spraying operations shall not be of a continuous nature.
Positive mechanical ventilation providing not fewer than six complete air changes per hour shall be installed. Such system shall meet the requirements of this code for handling flammable vapor areas. Explosion venting is not required.
Electrical wiring within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the floor and 20 feet (6096 mm) horizontally of the limited spraying space shall be designed for Class I, Division 2 locations in accordance with NFPA 70.
Dip-tank operations shall comply with the requirements of Section 2403 and Sections 2405.2 through 2405.11.
Dip-tank operations conducted in buildings used for Group A, I or R occupancies shall be located in a room designed for that purpose, equipped with an approved automatic sprinkler system and separated vertically and horizontally from other areas in accordance with the International Building Code.
Dip tanks greater than 150 gallons (568 L) in capacity or 10 square feet (0.93 m2) in liquid surface area shall be equipped with a trapped overflow pipe leading to an approved location outside the building. The bottom of the overflow connection shall be not less than 6 inches (152 mm) below the top of the tank.
Dip tanks greater than 500 gallons (1893 L) in liquid capacity shall be equipped with bottom drains that are arranged to automatically and manually drain the tank quickly in the event of a fire unless the viscosity of the liquid at normal atmospheric temperature makes this impractical. Access to the manual operation shall be from a safe location. Where gravity flow is not practicable, automatic pumps shall be provided. Such drains shall be trapped and discharged to a closed, vented salvage tank or to an approved outside location.
Exception: Dip tanks containing Class IIIB combustible liquids where the liquids are not heated above room temperature and the process area is protected by automatic sprinklers.
Protection against the accumulation of vapors, self-ignition and excessively high temperatures shall be provided for dipping liquids that are heated directly or heated by the surfaces of the object being dipped.
Dip-tank covers allowed by Section 2405.4.1 shall be capable of manual operation and shall be automatic closing by approved automatic-closing devices designed to operate in the event of a fire.
Covers shall be constructed of noncombustible material or be of a tin-clad type with enclosing metal applied with locked joints.
Chain or wire rope shall be utilized for cover supports or operating mechanisms.
An approved automatic fire-extinguishing system or dip-tank cover in accordance with Section 2405.3.4 shall be provided for the following dip tanks:
- Dip tanks less than 150 gallons (568 L) in capacity or 10 square feet (0.93 m2) in liquid surface area.
- Dip tanks containing a liquid with a flash point below 110°F (43°C) used in such manner that the liquid temperature could equal or be greater than its flash point from artificial or natural causes, and having both a capacity of more than 10 gallons (37.9 L) and a liquid surface area of more than 4 square feet (0.37 m2).
An approved automatic fire-extinguishing system shall be provided for dip tanks with a 150-gallon (568 L) or more capacity or 10 square feet (0.93 m2) or larger in a liquid surface area. Fire-extinguishing system design shall be in accordance with NFPA 34.
Areas in the vicinity of dip tanks shall be provided with portable fire extinguishers complying with Section 906 and suitable for flammable and combustible liquid fires as specified for extra (high) hazard occupancies.
Housekeeping, maintenance, storage and use of hazardous materials shall be in accordance with Sections 2403.3 and 2403.4.
Control of sources of ignition shall be in accordance with Section 2403.2.
Flammable vapor areas shall be provided with mechanical ventilation adequate to prevent the dangerous accumulation of vapors. Required ventilation systems shall be arranged such that the failure of any ventilating fan shall automatically stop the dipping conveyor system.
Tanks shall be located as far as practical from furnaces and shall not be located on or near combustible floors.
Tanks shall be equipped with a high-temperature limit switch arranged to sound an alarm when the temperature of the quenching medium reaches 50°F (10°C) below the flash point.
Hardening and tempering tanks greater than 500 gallons (1893 L) in capacity or 25 square feet (2.3 m2) in liquid surface area shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system complying with Chapter 9.
Air under pressure shall not be used to fill or agitate oil in tanks.
Roll-coating operations shall comply with Section 2405.10. In roll-coating operations utilizing flammable or combustible liquids, sparks from static electricity shall be prevented by electrically bonding and grounding all metallic rotating and other parts of machinery and equipment and by the installation of static collectors, or by maintaining a conductive atmosphere such as a high relative humidity.
Operations using finely ground particles of protective finishing material applied in dry powder form by a fluidized bed, an electrostatic fluidized bed, powder spray guns or electrostatic powder spray guns shall comply with Sections 2406.2 through 2406.7. In addition, Section 2407 shall apply to fixed electrostatic equipment used in powder coating operations.
Powder coating operations shall be conducted in enclosed powder coating rooms, enclosed powder coating facilities that are ventilated or ventilated spray booths.
Powder coating rooms shall be constructed of noncombustible materials. Spray booths shall be constructed in accordance with Section 2404.3.3.
Exception: Listed spray-booth assemblies that are constructed of other materials shall be allowed.
Areas used for powder coating shall be protected by an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system complying with Chapter 9.
Automated powder application equipment shall be protected by the installation of an approved, supervised flame detection apparatus that shall react to the presence of flame within 0.5 second and shall accomplish all of the following:
- Shutting down of energy supplies (electrical and compressed air) to conveyor, ventilation, application, transfer and powder collection equipment.
- Closing of segregation dampers in associated ductwork to interrupt airflow from application equipment to powder collectors.
- Activation of an alarm that is audible throughout the powder coating room or booth.
Portable fire extinguishers complying with Section 906 shall be provided for areas used for powder coating in accordance with the requirements for an extra-hazard occupancy.
Powder coating areas shall be kept free from the accumulation of powder coating dusts, including horizontal surfaces such as ledges, beams, pipes, hoods, booths and floors.
Control of sources of ignition shall be in accordance with Section 2403.2 and Sections 2406.6.1 through 2406.6.4.
Drying, curing and fusion equipment shall comply with Chapter 30.
Iron or spark-producing metals shall be prevented from being introduced into the powders being applied by magnetic separators, filter-type separators or by other approved means.
When parts are heated prior to coating, the temperature of the parts shall not exceed the ignition temperature of the powder to be used.
Precautions shall be taken to minimize the possibility of ignition by static electrical sparks through static bonding and grounding, where possible, of powder transport, application and recovery equipment.
Exhaust ventilation shall be sufficient to maintain the atmosphere below one-half the minimum explosive concentration for the material being applied. Nondeposited, air-suspended powders shall be removed through exhaust ducts to the powder recovery system.
A space of not less than twice the sparking distance shall be maintained between goods being painted or deteared and electrodes, electrostatic atomizing heads or conductors. A sign stating the sparking distance shall be conspicuously posted near the assembly.
Exception: Portable electrostatic paint-spraying apparatus listed for use in Class I, Division 1, locations.
Electrodes and electrostatic atomizing heads shall be of approved construction, rigidly supported in permanent locations and effectively insulated from ground. Insulators shall be nonporous and noncombustible.
Exception: Portable electrostatic paint-spraying apparatus listed for use in Class I, Division 1, locations.
Booths, fencing, railings or guards shall be placed about the equipment such that either by their location or character, or both, isolation of the process is maintained from plant storage and personnel. Railings, fencing and guards shall be of conductive material, adequately grounded, and not less than 5 feet (1524 mm) from processing equipment.
Exception: Portable electrostatic paint-spraying apparatus listed for use in Class I, Division 1, locations.
Areas used for electrostatic spray finishing with fixed equipment shall be protected with an approved automatic fire-extinguishing system complying with Chapter 9 and Section 2407.4.1.
Automated liquid electrostatic spray application equipment shall be protected by the installation of an approved, supervised flame detection apparatus that shall, in the event of ignition, react to the presence of flame within 0.5 second and shall accomplish all of the following:
- Activation of a local alarm in the vicinity of the spraying operation and activation of the building alarm system, if such a system is provided.
- Shutting down of the coating material delivery system.
- Termination of all spray application operations.
- Stopping of conveyors into and out of the flammable vapor areas.
- Disconnection of power to the high-voltage elements in the flammable vapor areas and disconnection of power to the system.
Insulators shall be kept clean and dry. Drip plates and screens subject to paint deposits shall be removable and taken to a safe place for cleaning. Grounds and bonding means for the paint-spraying apparatus and all associated equipment shall be periodically cleaned and maintained free of overspray.
Signs shall be posted to provide the following information:
- Designate the process zone as dangerous with respect to fire and accident.
- Identify the grounding requirements for all electrically conductive objects in the flammable vapor area, including persons.
- Restrict access to qualified personnel only.
Transformers, power packs, control apparatus and all other electrical portions of the equipment, except high-voltage grids and electrostatic atomizing heads and connections, shall be located outside of the flammable vapor areas or shall comply with Section 2403.2.
The flammable vapor area shall be ventilated in accordance with Section 2404.7.
Electrostatic apparatus shall be equipped with automatic controls operating without time delay to disconnect the power supply to the high-voltage transformer and signal the operator under any of the following conditions:
- Stoppage of ventilating fans or failure of ventilating equipment from any cause.
- Stoppage of the conveyor carrying articles past the high-voltage grid.
- Occurrence of a ground or an imminent ground at any point of the high-voltage system.
- Reduction of clearance below that required in Section 2407.2.
Hand electrostatic equipment shall be interlocked with the ventilation system for the spraying area so that the equipment cannot be operated unless the ventilating system is in operation.
Spraying operations involving the use of organic peroxides and other dual-component coatings shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 2403 and Sections 2408.2 through 2408.5.
Spraying operations involving the use of organic peroxides and other dual-component coatings shall be conducted in approved sprinklered spray booths complying with Section 2404.3.3.
Spray guns and related handling equipment used with organic peroxides shall be of a type manufactured for such use.
Separate pressure vessels and inserts specifically for the application shall be used for the resin and for the organic peroxide, and shall not be interchanged. Organic peroxide pressure tank inserts shall be constructed of stainless steel or polyethylene.
Organic peroxide initiators shall not be contaminated with foreign substances.
Spilled organic peroxides shall be promptly removed and any residue thereof promptly eliminated. Spilled material absorbed by using a noncombustible absorbent shall be promptly disposed of in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendation.
Materials shall not be contaminated by dusts and overspray residues resulting from the sanding or spraying of finishing materials containing organic peroxides.
Handling of organic peroxides shall be conducted in a manner that avoids shock and friction that produces decomposition and violent reaction hazards.
Organic peroxides shall not be mixed directly with accelerators or promoters.
Personnel working with organic peroxides and dual-component coatings shall be specifically trained to work with these materials.
The storage of organic peroxides shall comply with Chapter 62.
Only nonsparking tools shall be used in areas where organic peroxides are stored, mixed or applied.
Equipment used for spray application of resin shall be installed and used in accordance with Section 2408 and Sections 2409.3 through 2409.6.1.
Resin application areas shall be protected by an automatic sprinkler system. The sprinkler system design shall be not less than that required for Ordinary Hazard, Group 2, with a minimum design area of 3,000 square feet (279 m2). Where the materials or storage arrangements are required by other regulations to be provided with a higher level of sprinkler system protection, the higher level of sprinkler system protection shall be provided.
A noncombustible, open-top container shall be provided for disposal of excess catalyzed resin. Excess catalyzed resin shall be drained into the container while still in the liquid state. Enough water shall be provided in the container to maintain a minimum 2-inch (51 mm) water layer over the contained resin.
In areas where chopper guns are used, exposed wall and floor surfaces shall be covered with paper, polyethylene film or other approved material to allow for removal of overchop. Overchop shall be allowed to cure for not less than 4 hours prior to removal.
Following removal, used wall and floor covering materials required by Section 2409.4.2 shall be placed in a noncombustible container and removed from the facility.
Storage and use of organic peroxides shall be in accordance with Section 2408 and Chapter 62. Storage and use of flammable and combustible liquids shall be in accordance with Chapter 57. Storage and use of unstable (reactive) materials shall be in accordance with Chapter 66.
Sources of ignition in resin application areas shall comply with Section 2403.2.
Mechanical ventilation shall be provided throughout resin application areas in accordance with Section 2404.7. The ventilation rate shall be adequate to maintain the concentration of flammable vapors in the resin application area at or below 25 percent of the LFL.
Exception: Mechanical ventilation is not required for buildings that have 75 percent of the perimeter unenclosed.
Local ventilation shall be provided inside of workpieces where personnel will be under or inside of the workpiece.
Heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems shall not be operated during resurfacing or refinishing operations or within 4 hours of the application of flammable or combustible liquids.
Floor surfacing and finishing operations shall not be conducted while an establishment is open to the public.
The power shall be shut down to all electrical sources of ignition within the flammable vapor area, unless those devices are classified for use in Class I, Division 1 hazardous locations.
To prevent the accumulation of flammable vapors, mechanical ventilation at a minimum rate of 1 cubic foot per minute per square foot [0.00508 m3 /(s • m2)] of area being finished shall be provided. Such exhaust shall be by approved temporary or portable means. Vapors shall be exhausted to the exterior of the building.