Ripening processes where ethylene gas is introduced into a room to promote the ripening of fruits, vegetables and other crops shall comply with this chapter.
Exception: Mixtures of ethylene and one or more inert gases in concentrations that prevent the gas from reaching greater than 25 percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL) when released to the atmosphere.
Permits shall be required as set forth in Section 105.6.
Approved ethylene generators shall be operated and maintained in accordance with Section 2506.
Words and terms used in this chapter and defined in Chapter 2 shall have the meanings ascribed to them as defined therein.
Ethylene gas shall be discharged only into approved rooms or enclosures designed and constructed for this purpose.
Valves controlling discharge of ethylene shall provide positive and fail-closed control of flow and shall be set to limit the concentration of gas in air below 1,000 parts per million (ppm).
Sources of ignition shall be controlled or protected in accordance with this section and Chapter 3.
Containers, piping and equipment used to dispense ethylene shall be bonded and grounded to prevent the discharge of static sparks or arcs.
Lighting shall be by approved electric lamps or luminaires only.
Heating shall be by indirect means utilizing low-pressure steam, hot water or warm air.
Exception: Electric or fuel-fired heaters approved for use in hazardous (classified) locations and that are installed and operated in accordance with the applicable provisions of NFPA 70, the International Mechanical Code or the International Fuel Gas Code.
Ethylene generators shall be listed and labeled by an approved testing laboratory, approved by the fire code official and used only in approved rooms in accordance with the ethylene generator manufacturer's instructions. The listing evaluation shall include documentation that the concentration of ethylene gas does not exceed 25 percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL).
Ethylene generators shall be used in rooms having a volume of not less than 1,000 cubic feet (28 m3). Rooms shall have air circulation to ensure even distribution of ethylene gas and shall be free from sparks, open flames or other ignition sources.
Approved warning signs indicating the danger involved and necessary precautions shall be posted on all doors and entrances to the premises.