User note:
About this chapter: Chapter 56 prescribes minimum requirements for the safe manufacture, storage, handling and use of explosives, ammunition and blasting agents for commercial and industrial occupancies. These provisions are intended to protect the general public, emergency responders and individuals who handle explosives. It also regulates the manufacturing, retail sale, display and wholesale distribution of fireworks; establishes the requirements for obtaining approval to manufacture, store, sell, discharge or conduct a public display; and references national standards for regulations governing manufacture, storage and public displays.
The provisions of this chapter shall govern the possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale and use of explosives, explosive materials, fireworks and small arms ammunition.
Exceptions:
- The Armed Forces of the United States, Coast Guard or National Guard.
- Explosives in forms prescribed by the official United States Pharmacopoeia.
- The possession, storage and use of small arms ammunition where packaged in accordance with DOTn packaging requirements.
- The possession, storage and use of not more than 1 pound (0.454 kg) of commercially manufactured sporting black powder, 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless powder and 10,000 small arms primers for hand loading of small arms ammunition for personal consumption.
- The use of explosive materials by federal, state and local regulatory, law enforcement and fire agencies acting in their official capacities.
- Special industrial explosive devices that in the aggregate contain less than 50 pounds (23 kg) of explosive materials.
- The possession, storage and use of blank industrial-power load cartridges where packaged in accordance with DOTn packaging regulations.
- Transportation in accordance with DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100—185.
- Items preempted by federal regulations.
In addition to the requirements of this chapter, NFPA 495 shall govern the manufacture, transportation, storage, sale, handling and use of explosive materials.
In addition to the requirements of this chapter, the operation of explosive material terminals shall conform to the provisions of NFPA 498.
Exceptions:
- Storage and handling of fireworks as allowed in Section 5604.
- Manufacture, assembly and testing of fireworks as allowed in Section 5605.
- The use of fireworks for fireworks displays as allowed in Section 5608.
- The possession, storage, sale, handling and use of specific types of Division 1.4G fireworks where allowed by applicable laws, ordinances and regulations, provided that such fireworks and facilities comply with NFPA 1124, CPSC 16 CFR Parts 1500 and 1507, and DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100—185, as applicable for consumer fireworks.
The storage and handling of ammonium nitrate shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 400 and Chapter 63.
Exception: Storage of ammonium nitrate in magazines with blasting agents shall comply with the requirements of NFPA 495.
Deleted.
Permits shall not be issued or renewed for possession, manufacture, storage, handling, sale or use of the following materials and such materials currently in storage or use shall be disposed of in an approved manner.
- Liquid nitroglycerin.
- Dynamite containing more than 60-percent liquid explosive ingredient.
- Dynamite having an unsatisfactory absorbent or one that permits leakage of a liquid explosive ingredient under any conditions liable to exist during storage.
- Nitrocellulose in a dry and uncompressed condition in a quantity greater than 10 pounds (4.54 kg) of net weight in one package.
- Fulminate of mercury in a dry condition and fulminate of all other metals in any condition except as a component of manufactured articles not hereinafter forbidden.
- Explosive compositions that ignite spontaneously or undergo marked decomposition, rendering the products of their use more hazardous, when subjected for 48 consecutive hours or less to a temperature of 167°F (75°C).
- New explosive materials until approved by DOTn, except that permits are allowed to be issued to educational, governmental or industrial laboratories for instructional or research purposes.
- Explosive materials forbidden for transport by DOTn.
- Explosive materials containing an ammonium salt and a chlorate.
- Explosives not packed or marked as required by DOTn 49 CFR Parts 100—185.
Exception: Gelatin dynamite.
Persons in charge of magazines, blasting, fireworks display or pyrotechnic special effect operations shall not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs that impair sensory or motor skills, shall be not less than 21 years of age and shall demonstrate knowledge of all safety precautions related to the storage, handling or use of explosives, explosive materials or fireworks.
The fire code official is authorized to require operations permitted under the provisions of Section 5601.2 to be supervised at any time by the fire code official in order to determine compliance with all safety and fire regulations.
Whenever a new explosive material storage or manufacturing site is established, including a temporary job site, the local law enforcement agency, fire department and local emergency planning committee shall be notified 48 hours in advance, not including Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, of the type, quantity and location of explosive materials at the site.
The fire code official is authorized to remove or cause to be removed or disposed of in an approved manner, at the expense of the owner, explosives, explosive materials or fireworks offered or exposed for sale, stored, possessed or used in violation of this chapter.
The quantity of explosives and distances shall be in accordance with Sections 5601.8.1 through 5601.8.1.4.
The quantity-distance (Q-D) tables in Sections 5604.5 and 5605.3 shall be used to provide the minimum separation distances from potential explosion sites as set forth in Tables 5601.8.1(1) through 5601.8.1(3). The classification and the weight of the explosives are primary characteristics governing the use of these tables. The net explosive weight shall be determined in accordance with Sections 5601.8.1.1 through 5601.8.1.4.
| ITEM | MAGAZINE | OPERATING BUILDING | INHABITED BUILDING | PUBLIC TRAFFIC ROUTE |
| Inhabited building | IBD in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
| Magazine | IMD in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
ILD or IPD in Table 5605.3 |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
PTR in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
| Operating building | ILD or IPD in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
ILD or IPD in Table 5605.3 |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
PTR in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
| Public traffic route | PTR in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
PTR in Table 5604.5.2(1) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
- The minimum separation distance shall be 60 feet. Where a building or magazine containing explosives is barricaded, the minimum distance shall be 30 feet.
- Linear interpolation between tabular values in the referenced Q-D tables shall not be allowed. Nonlinear interpolation of the values shall be allowed subject to an approved technical opinion and report prepared in accordance with Section 104.7.2.
- For definitions of Quantity-Distance abbreviations IBD, ILD, IMD, IPD and PTR, see Chapter 2.
| ITEM | MAGAZINE | OPERATING BUILDING | INHABITED BUILDING | PUBLIC TRAFFIC ROUTE |
| Inhabited building | IBD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
| Magazine | IMD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
ILD or IPD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
PTR in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
| Operating building | ILD or IPD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
ILD or IPD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
PTR in Table 5604.5.2(2) |
| Public traffic route | PTR in Table 5604.5.2(2) | PTR in Table 5604.5.2(2) | Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.
| ITEM | MAGAZINE | OPERATING BUILDING | INHABITED BUILDING | PUBLIC TRAFFIC ROUTE |
| Inhabited building | IBD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
| Magazine | IMD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
ILD or IPD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
PTR in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
| Operating building | ILD or IPD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
ILD or IPD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
IBD in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
PTR in Table 5604.5.2(3) |
| Public traffic route | PTR in Table 5604.5.2(3) | PTR in Table 5604.5.2(3) | Not Applicable |
Not Applicable |
The total net explosive weight of mass-detonating explosives (Division 1.1, 1.2 or 1.5) shall be used. See Table 5604.5.2(1) or Table 5605.3, as appropriate.
Exception: Where the TNT equivalence of the explosive material has been determined, the equivalence is allowed to be used to establish the net explosive weight.
Nonmass-detonating explosives (excluding Division 1.4) shall be as follows:
- Division 1.3 propellants. The total weight of the propellants alone shall be the net explosive weight. The net weight of propellant shall be used. See Table 5604.5.2(2).
- Combinations of bulk metal powder and pyrotechnic compositions. The sum of the net weights of metal powders and pyrotechnic compositions in the containers shall be the net explosive weight. See Table 5604.5.2(2).
Combination of mass-detonating and nonmass-detonating explosives (excluding Division 1.4) shall be as follows:
- Where Division 1.1 and 1.2 explosives are located in the same site, determine the distance for the total quantity considered first as 1.1 and then as 1.2. The required distance is the greater of the two. Where the Division 1.1 requirements are controlling and the TNT equivalence of the 1.2 is known, the TNT equivalent weight of the 1.2 items shall be allowed to be added to the total explosive weight of Division 1.1 items to determine the net explosive weight for Division 1.1 distance determination. See Table 5604.5.2(2) or Table 5605.3, as appropriate.
- Where Division 1.1 and 1.3 explosives are located in the same site, determine the distances for the total quantity considered first as 1.1 and then as 1.3. The required distance is the greater of the two. Where the Division 1.1 requirements are controlling and the TNT equivalence of the 1.3 is known, the TNT equivalent weight of the 1.3 items shall be allowed to be added to the total explosive weight of Division 1.1 items to determine the net explosive weight for Division 1.1 distance determination. See Table 5604.5.2(1), 5604.5.2(2) or 5605.3, as appropriate.
- Where Division 1.1, 1.2 and 1.3 explosives are located in the same site, determine the distances for the total quantity considered first as 1.1, next as 1.2 and finally as 1.3. The required distance is the greatest of the three. As allowed by Items 1 and 2, TNT equivalent weights for 1.2 and 1.3 items are allowed to be used to determine the net weight of explosives for Division 1.1 distance determination. Table 5604.5.2(1) or 5605.3 shall be used where TNT equivalency is used to establish the net explosive weight.
- For composite pyrotechnic items Division 1.1 and Division 1.3, the sum of the net weights of the pyrotechnic composition and the explosives involved shall be used. See Tables 5604.5.2(1) and 5604.5.2(2).
For Division 1.4 explosives, the total weight of the explosive material alone is the net weight. The net weight of the explosive material shall be used.
The following terms are defined in Chapter 2:
Division 1.1.
Division 1.2.
Division 1.3.
Division 1.4.
Division 1.5.
Division 1.6.
Records of the receipt, handling, use or disposal of explosive materials, and reports of any accidents, thefts or unauthorized activities involving explosive materials shall conform to the requirements of this section.
The permittee shall maintain a record of all transactions involving receipt, removal, use or disposal of explosive materials. Such records shall be maintained for a period of 5 years.
Exception: Where only Division 1.4G (consumer fireworks) are handled, records need only be maintained for a period of 3 years.
The loss, theft or unauthorized removal of explosive materials from a magazine or permitted facility shall be reported to the fire code official, local law enforcement authorities and the U.S. Department of Treasury, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives within 24 hours.
Exception: Loss of Division 1.4G (consumer fireworks) need not be reported to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Accidents involving the use of explosives, explosive materials and fireworks that result in injuries or property damage shall be reported to the fire code official immediately.
The pyrotechnic display operator or blaster in charge shall keep a record of all aerial shells that fail to fire or charges that fail to detonate.
Manufacturers of explosive materials and fireworks shall maintain records of chemicals, chemical compounds and mixtures required by DOL 29 CFR Part 1910.1200, and Section 407.
Current safety rules covering the operation of magazines, as described in Section 5604.7, shall be posted on the interior of the magazine in a visible location.
Storage of explosives and explosive materials, small arms ammunition, small arms primers, propellant-actuated cartridges and smokeless propellants in magazines shall comply with the provisions of this section.
Explosives and explosive materials, and Division 1.3G fireworks shall be stored in magazines constructed, located, operated and maintained in accordance with the provisions of Section 5604 and NFPA 495 or NFPA 1124.
Exceptions:
- Storage of fireworks at display sites in accordance with Section 5608.5 and NFPA 1123 or NFPA 1126.
- Portable or mobile magazines not exceeding 120 square feet (11 m2) in area shall not be required to comply with the requirements of the International Building Code.
STORAGE AMOUNTS AND MAGAZINE REQUIREMENTS FOR EXPLOSIVES, EXPLOSIVE MATERIALS AND FIREWORKS, 1.3G MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE QUANTITY PER CONTROL AREA
| NEW UN/ DOTn DIVISION | OLD DOTn CLASS | ATF/OSHA CLASS | INDOORa (pounds) | OUTDOOR (pounds) | MAGAZINE TYPE REQUIRED | |||||||
| Unprotected | Cabinet | Sprinklers | Sprinklers & cabinet | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | ||||
| 1.1b | A | High | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | X | X | X | — | — |
| 1.2 | A | High | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | X | X | X | — | — |
| 1.2 | B | Low | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | X | X | X | X | — |
| 1.3 | B | Low | 0 | 0 | 5 | 10 | 1 | X | X | X | X | — |
| 1.4 | B | Low | 0 | 0 | 50 | 100 | 1 | X | X | X | X | — |
| 1.5 | C | Low | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | X | X | X | X | — |
| 1.5 | Blasting Agent | Blasting Agent | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | X | X | X | X | X |
| 1.6 | Not Applicable | Not Applicable | 0 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 1 | X | X | X | X | X |
For SI: 1 pound = 0.454 kg, 1 pound per gallon = 0.12 kg per liter, 1 ounce = 28.35 g.
- A factor of 10 pounds per gallon shall be used for converting pounds (solid) to gallons (liquid) in accordance with Section 5003.1.2.
- Black powder shall be stored in a Type 1, 2, 3 or 4 magazine as provided for in Section 5604.3.1.
Explosive materials classified as Division 1.1 or 1.2 or formerly classified as Class A by the U.S. Department of Transportation shall be stored in Type 1, 2 or 3 magazines.
Exceptions:
- Black powder shall be stored in a Type 1, 2, 3 or 4 magazine.
- Cap-sensitive explosive material that is demonstrated not to be bullet sensitive shall be stored in a Type 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 magazine.
For quantity and distance purposes, detonating cord of 50 grains per foot shall be calculated as equivalent to 8 pounds (4 kg) of high explosives per 1,000 feet (305 m). Heavier or lighter core loads shall be rated proportionally.
Detonators shall be stored in a separate magazine for blasting supplies and shall not be stored in a magazine with other explosive materials.
The use of magazines for storage of explosives and explosive materials shall comply with Sections 5604.5.1 through 5604.5.3.3.
The use of indoor magazines for storage of explosives and explosive materials shall comply with the requirements of Sections 5604.5.1.1 through 5604.5.1.7.
The use of indoor magazines for storage of explosives and explosive materials shall be limited to occupancies of Group F, H, M or S, and research and development laboratories.
- Construction shall be fire resistant and theft resistant.
- Exterior shall be painted red.
- Base shall be fitted with wheels, casters or rollers to facilitate removal from the building in an emergency.
- Lid or door shall be marked with conspicuous white lettering not less than 3 inches (76 mm) high and minimum 1/2 inch (12.7 mm) stroke, reading EXPLOSIVES—KEEP FIRE AWAY.
- The least horizontal dimension shall not exceed the clear width of the entrance door.
Not more than 50 pounds (23 kg) of explosives or explosive materials shall be stored within an indoor magazine.
Exception: Day boxes used for the storage of in-process material in accordance with Section 5605.6.4.1.
Not more than two indoor magazines shall be located in the same building. Where two such magazines are located in the same building, one magazine shall be used solely for the storage of not more than 5,000 detonators.
Where two magazines are located in the same building, they shall be separated by a distance of not less than 10 feet (3048 mm).
Outdoor magazines other than Type 3 shall be located so as to comply with Table 5604.5.2(2) or 5604.5.2(3) as set forth in Tables 5601.8.1(1) through 5601.8.1(3). Where a magazine or group of magazines, as described in Section 5604.5.2.2, contains different classes of explosive materials, and Division 1.1 materials are present, the required separations for the magazine or magazine group as a whole shall comply with Table 5604.5.2(2).
AMERICAN TABLE OF DISTANCES FOR STORAGE OF EXPLOSIVES AS APPROVED BY THE INSTITUTE OF MAKERS OF EXPLOSIVES AND REVISED JUNE 1991a
| QUANTITY OF EXPLOSIVE MATERIALSc | DISTANCES IN FEET | ||||||||
| Inhabited buildings | Public highways with traffic volume less than 3,000 vehicles per day | Public highways with traffic volume greater than 3,000 vehicles per day and passenger railways | Separation of magazinesd | ||||||
| Pounds over | Pounds not over | Barricaded | Unbarricaded | Barricaded | Unbarricaded | Barricaded | Unbarricaded | Barricaded | Unbarricaded |
| 0 | 5 | 70 | 140 | 30 | 60 | 51 | 102 | 6 | 12 |
| 5 | 10 | 90 | 180 | 35 | 70 | 64 | 128 | 8 | 16 |
| 10 | 20 | 110 | 220 | 45 | 90 | 81 | 162 | 10 | 20 |
| 20 | 30 | 125 | 250 | 50 | 100 | 93 | 186 | 11 | 22 |
| 30 | 40 | 140 | 280 | 55 | 110 | 103 | 206 | 12 | 24 |
| 40 | 50 | 150 | 300 | 60 | 120 | 110 | 220 | 14 | 28 |
| 50 | 75 | 170 | 340 | 70 | 140 | 127 | 254 | 15 | 30 |
| 75 | 100 | 190 | 380 | 75 | 150 | 139 | 278 | 16 | 32 |
| 100 | 125 | 200 | 400 | 80 | 160 | 150 | 300 | 18 | 36 |
| 125 | 150 | 215 | 430 | 85 | 170 | 159 | 318 | 19 | 38 |
| 150 | 200 | 235 | 470 | 95 | 190 | 175 | 350 | 21 | 42 |
| 200 | 250 | 255 | 510 | 105 | 210 | 189 | 378 | 23 | 46 |
| 250 | 300 | 270 | 540 | 110 | 220 | 201 | 402 | 24 | 48 |
| 300 | 400 | 295 | 590 | 120 | 240 | 221 | 442 | 27 | 54 |
| 400 | 500 | 320 | 640 | 130 | 260 | 238 | 476 | 29 | 58 |
| 500 | 600 | 340 | 680 | 135 | 270 | 253 | 506 | 31 | 62 |
| 600 | 700 | 355 | 710 | 145 | 290 | 266 | 532 | 32 | 64 |
| 700 | 800 | 375 | 750 | 150 | 300 | 278 | 556 | 33 | 66 |
| 800 | 900 | 390 | 780 | 155 | 310 | 289 | 578 | 35 | 70 |
| 900 | 1,000 | 400 | 800 | 160 | 320 | 300 | 600 | 36 | 72 |
| 1,000 | 1,200 | 425 | 850 | 165 | 330 | 318 | 636 | 39 | 78 |
| 1,200 | 1,400 | 450 | 900 | 170 | 340 | 336 | 672 | 41 | 82 |
| 1,400 | 1,600 | 470 | 940 | 175 | 350 | 351 | 702 | 43 | 86 |
| 1,600 | 1,800 | 490 | 980 | 180 | 360 | 366 | 732 | 44 | 88 |
| 1,800 | 2,000 | 505 | 1,010 | 185 | 370 | 378 | 756 | 45 | 90 |
| 2,000 | 2,500 | 545 | 1,090 | 190 | 380 | 408 | 816 | 49 | 98 |
| 2,500 | 3,000 | 580 | 1,160 | 195 | 390 | 432 | 864 | 52 | 104 |
| 3,000 | 4,000 | 635 | 1,270 | 210 | 420 | 474 | 948 | 58 | 116 |
| 4,000 | 5,000 | 685 | 1,370 | 225 | 450 | 513 | 1,026 | 61 | 122 |
| 5,000 | 6,000 | 730 | 1,460 | 235 | 470 | 546 | 1,092 | 65 | 130 |
| 6,000 | 7,000 | 770 | 1,540 | 245 | 490 | 573 | 1,146 | 68 | 136 |
| 7,000 | 8,000 | 800 | 1,600 | 250 | 500 | 600 | 1,200 | 72 | 144 |
| 8,000 | 9,000 | 835 | 1,670 | 255 | 510 | 624 | 1,248 | 75 | 150 |
| 9,000 | 10,000 | 865 | 1,730 | 260 | 520 | 645 | 1,290 | 78 | 156 |
| 10,000 | 12,000 | 875 | 1,750 | 270 | 540 | 687 | 1,374 | 82 | 164 |
| 12,000 | 14,000 | 885 | 1,770 | 275 | 550 | 723 | 1,446 | 87 | 174 |
| 14,000 | 16,000 | 900 | 1,800 | 280 | 560 | 756 | 1,512 | 90 | 180 |
| 16,000 | 18,000 | 940 | 1,880 | 285 | 570 | 786 | 1,572 | 94 | 188 |
| 18,000 | 20,000 | 975 | 1,950 | 290 | 580 | 813 | 1,626 | 98 | 196 |
| 20,000 | 25,000 | 1,055 | 2,000 | 315 | 630 | 876 | 1,752 | 105 | 210 |
| 25,000 | 30,000 | 1,130 | 2,000 | 340 | 680 | 933 | 1,866 | 112 | 224 |
| 30,000 | 35,000 | 1,205 | 2,000 | 360 | 720 | 981 | 1,962 | 119 | 238 |
| 35,000 | 40,000 | 1,275 | 2,000 | 380 | 760 | 1,026 | 2,000 | 124 | 248 |
| 40,000 | 45,000 | 1,340 | 2,000 | 400 | 800 | 1,068 | 2,000 | 129 | 258 |
| 45,000 | 50,000 | 1,400 | 2,000 | 420 | 840 | 1,104 | 2,000 | 135 | 270 |
| 50,000 | 55,000 | 1,460 | 2,000 | 440 | 880 | 1,140 | 2,000 | 140 | 280 |
| 55,000 | 60,000 | 1,515 | 2,000 | 455 | 910 | 1,173 | 2,000 | 145 | 290 |
| 60,000 | 65,000 | 1,565 | 2,000 | 470 | 940 | 1,206 | 2,000 | 150 | 300 |
| 65,000 | 70,000 | 1,610 | 2,000 | 485 | 970 | 1,236 | 2,000 | 155 | 310 |
| 70,000 | 75,000 | 1,655 | 2,000 | 500 | 1,000 | 1,263 | 2,000 | 160 | 320 |
| 75,000 | 80,000 | 1,695 | 2,000 | 510 | 1,020 | 1,293 | 2,000 | 165 | 330 |
| 80,000 | 85,000 | 1,730 | 2,000 | 520 | 1,040 | 1,317 | 2,000 | 170 | 340 |
| 85,000 | 90,000 | 1,760 | 2,000 | 530 | 1,060 | 1,344 | 2,000 | 175 | 350 |
| 90,000 | 95,000 | 1,790 | 2,000 | 540 | 1,080 | 1,368 | 2,000 | 180 | 360 |
| 95,000 | 100,000 | 1,815 | 2,000 | 545 | 1,090 | 1,392 | 2,000 | 185 | 370 |
| 100,000 | 110,000 | 1,835 | 2,000 | 550 | 1,100 | 1,437 | 2,000 | 195 | 390 |
| 110,000 | 120,000 | 1,855 | 2,000 | 555 | 1,110 | 1,479 | 2,000 | 205 | 410 |
| 120,000 | 130,000 | 1,875 | 2,000 | 560 | 1,120 | 1,521 | 2,000 | 215 | 430 |
| 130,000 | 140,000 | 1,890 | 2,000 | 565 | 1,130 | 1,557 | 2,000 | 225 | 450 |
| 140,000 | 150,000 | 1,900 | 2,000 | 570 | 1,140 | 1,593 | 2,000 | 235 | 470 |
| 150,000 | 160,000 | 1,935 | 2,000 | 580 | 1,160 | 1,629 | 2,000 | 245 | 490 |
| 160,000 | 170,000 | 1,965 | 2,000 | 590 | 1,180 | 1,662 | 2,000 | 255 | 510 |
| 170,000 | 180,000 | 1,990 | 2,000 | 600 | 1,200 | 1,695 | 2,000 | 265 | 530 |
| 180,000 | 190,000 | 2,010 | 2,010 | 605 | 1,210 | 1,725 | 2,000 | 275 | 550 |
| 190,000 | 200,000 | 2,030 | 2,030 | 610 | 1,220 | 1,755 | 2,000 | 285 | 570 |
| 200,000 | 210,000 | 2,055 | 2,055 | 620 | 1,240 | 1,782 | 2,000 | 295 | 590 |
| 210,000 | 230,000 | 2,100 | 2,100 | 635 | 1,270 | 1,836 | 2,000 | 315 | 630 |
| 230,000 | 250,000 | 2,155 | 2,155 | 650 | 1,300 | 1,890 | 2,000 | 335 | 670 |
| 250,000 | 275,000 | 2,215 | 2,215 | 670 | 1,340 | 1,950 | 2,000 | 360 | 720 |
| 275,000 | 300,000b | 2,275 | 2,275 | 690 | 1,380 | 2,000 | 2,000 | 385 | 770 |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
- This table applies only to the manufacture and permanent storage of commercial explosive materials. It is not applicable to transportation of explosives or any handling or temporary storage necessary or incident thereto. It is not intended to apply to bombs, projectiles or other heavily encased explosives.
- Storage in excess of 300,000 pounds of explosive materials in one magazine is not allowed.
- Where a manufacturing building on an explosive materials plant site is designed to contain explosive materials, such building shall be located with respect to its proximity to inhabited buildings, public highways and passenger railways based on the maximum quantity of explosive materials permitted to be in the building at one time.
- Where two or more storage magazines are located on the same property, each magazine shall comply with the minimum distances specified from inhabited buildings, railways and highways, and, in addition, they should be separated from each other by not less than the distances shown for separation of magazines, except that the quantity of explosives in detonator magazines shall govern in regard to the spacing of said detonator magazines from magazines containing other explosive materials. Where any two or more magazines are separated from each other by less than the specified separation of magazines distances, then two or more such magazines, as a group, shall be considered as one magazine, and the total quantity of explosive materials stored in such group shall be treated as if stored in a single magazine located on the site of any magazine in the group and shall comply with the minimum distances specified from other magazines, inhabited buildings, railways and highways.
TABLE OF DISTANCES (Q-D) FOR BUILDINGS AND MAGAZINES CONTAINING EXPLOSIVES—DIVISION 1.3 MASS-FIRE HAZARDa, b, c
| QUANTITY OF DIVISION 1.3 EXPLOSIVES (NET EXPLOSIVES WEIGHT) | DISTANCES IN FEET | ||||
| Pounds over | Pounds not over | Inhabited Building Distance (IBD) | Distance to Public Traffic Route (PTR) | Intermagazine Distance (IMD) | Intraline Distance (ILD) or Intraplant Distance (IPD) |
| 0 | 1,000 | 75 | 75 | 50 | 50 |
| 1,000 | 5,000 | 115 | 115 | 75 | 75 |
| 5,000 | 10,000 | 150 | 150 | 100 | 100 |
| 10,000 | 20,000 | 190 | 190 | 125 | 125 |
| 20,000 | 30,000 | 215 | 215 | 145 | 145 |
| 30,000 | 40,000 | 235 | 235 | 155 | 155 |
| 40,000 | 50,000 | 250 | 250 | 165 | 165 |
| 50,000 | 60,000 | 260 | 260 | 175 | 175 |
| 60,000 | 70,000 | 270 | 270 | 185 | 185 |
| 70,000 | 80,000 | 280 | 280 | 190 | 190 |
| 80,000 | 90,000 | 295 | 295 | 195 | 195 |
| 90,000 | 100,000 | 300 | 300 | 200 | 200 |
| 100,000 | 200,000 | 375 | 375 | 250 | 250 |
| 200,000 | 300,000 | 450 | 450 | 300 | 300 |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
- Black powder, where stored in magazines, is defined as low explosive by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATF).
- For quantities less than 1,000 pounds, the required distances are those specified for 1,000 pounds. The use of lesser distances is allowed where supported by approved test data or analysis.
- Linear interpolation of explosive quantities between table entries is allowed.
| QUANTITY OF DIVISION 1.4 EXPLOSIVES (NET EXPLOSIVES WEIGHT) | DISTANCES IN FEET | ||||
| Pounds over | Pounds not over | Inhabited Building Distance (IBD) | Distance to Public Traffic Route (PTR) | Intermagazine Distancea, b (IMD) | Intraline Distance (ILD) or Intraplant Distancea (IPD) |
| 50 | Not Limited | 100 | 100 | 50 | 50 |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
- A separation distance of 100 feet is required for buildings of other than Type I or Type II construction as defined in the International Building Code.
- For earth-covered magazines, specific separation is not required.
- Earth cover material used for magazines shall be relatively cohesive. Solid or wet clay and similar types of soil are too cohesive and shall not be used. Soil shall be free from unsanitary organic matter, trash, debris and stones heavier than 10 pounds or larger than 6 inches in diameter. Compaction and surface preparation shall be provided, as necessary, to maintain structural integrity and avoid erosion. Where cohesive material cannot be used, as in sandy soil, the earth cover over magazines shall be finished with a suitable material to ensure structural integrity.
- The earth fill or earth cover between earth-covered magazines shall be either solid or sloped, in accordance with the requirements of other construction features, but not less than 2 feet of earth cover shall be maintained over the top of each magazines. To reduce erosion and facilitate maintenance operations, the cover shall have a slope of 2 horizontal to 1 vertical.
- Restricted to articles, including articles packaged for shipment, that are not regulated as an explosive under Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives regulations, or unpacked articles used in process operations that do not propagate a detonation or deflagration between articles.
Where two or more storage magazines are located on the same property, each magazine shall comply with the minimum distances specified from inhabited buildings, public transportation routes and operating buildings. Magazines shall be separated from each other by not less than the intermagazine distances (IMD) shown for the separation of magazines.
Where two or more magazines are separated from each other by less than the intermagazine distances (IMD), such magazines as a group shall be considered as one magazine and the total quantity of explosive materials stored in the group shall be treated as if stored in a single magazine. The location of the group of magazines shall comply with the intermagazine distances (IMD) specified from other magazines or magazine groups, inhabited buildings (IBD), public transportation routes (PTR) and operating buildings (ILD or IPD) as required.
Wherever practicable, Type 3 magazines shall be located away from neighboring inhabited buildings, railways, highways and other magazines in accordance with Table 5604.5.2(2) or 5604.5.2(3), as applicable.
Type 3 magazines shall be attended when explosive materials are stored within. Explosive materials shall be removed to appropriate storage magazines for unattended storage at the end of the workday.
Where lighting is necessary within a magazine, electric safety flashlights or electric safety lanterns shall be used, except as provided in NFPA 495.
In other than Type 5 magazines, there shall not be exposed ferrous metal on the interior of a magazine containing packages of explosives.
Property on which Type 1 magazines and outdoor magazines of Types 2, 4 and 5 are located shall be posted with signs stating: EXPLOSIVES—KEEP OFF. These signs shall be of contrasting colors with a minimum letter height of 3 inches (76 mm) with a minimum brush stroke of 1/2 inch (12.7 mm). The signs shall be located to minimize the possibility of a bullet shot at the sign hitting the magazine.
At the entrance to explosive material manufacturing and storage sites, all access roads shall be posted with the following warning sign or other approved sign:
The sign shall be weather-resistant with a reflective surface and have lettering not less than 2 inches (51 mm) high.
Type 5 magazines containing Division 1.5 blasting agents shall be prominently placarded as required during transportation by DOTn 49 CFR Part 172 and DOTy 27 CFR Part 555.
Magazines shall be kept locked in the manner prescribed in NFPA 495 at all times except during placement or removal of explosives or inspection.
Smoking, matches, flame-producing devices, open flames, firearms and firearms cartridges shall not be allowed inside of or within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of magazines.
The area located around a magazine shall be kept clear of brush, dried grass, leaves, trash, debris and similar combustible materials for a distance of 25 feet (7620 mm).
Combustible materials shall not be stored within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of magazines.
Containers of explosive materials, except fiberboard containers, and packages of damaged or deteriorated explosive materials or fireworks shall not be unpacked or repacked inside or within 50 feet (15 240 mm) of a magazine or in close proximity to other explosive materials.
Packages of explosive materials that have been opened shall be closed before being placed in a magazine.
Tools used for the opening and closing of packages of explosive materials, other than metal slitters for opening paper, plastic or fiberboard containers, shall be made of nonsparking materials.
Empty containers and paper and fiber packaging materials that previously contained explosive materials shall be disposed of or reused in a approved manner.
Metal tools, other than nonferrous transfer conveyors and ferrous metal conveyor stands protected by a coat of paint, shall not be stored in a magazine containing explosive materials or detonators.
Magazines shall be used exclusively for the storage of explosive materials, blasting materials and blasting accessories.
Corresponding grades and brands of explosive materials shall be stored together and in such a manner that the grade and brand marks are visible. Stocks shall be stored so as to be easily counted and checked. Packages of explosive materials shall be stacked in a stable manner not exceeding 8 feet (2438 mm) in height.
When explosive material is removed from a magazine for use, the oldest usable stocks shall be removed first.
Magazine floors shall be regularly swept and be kept clean, dry and free of grit, paper, empty packages and rubbish. Brooms and other cleaning utensils shall not have any spark-producing metal parts. Sweepings from magazine floors shall be disposed of in accordance with the manufacturers' approved instructions.
Explosive materials shall be removed from the magazine before making repairs to the interior of a magazine. Explosive materials shall be removed from the magazine before making repairs to the exterior of the magazine where there is a possibility of causing a fire. Explosive materials removed from a magazine under repair shall either be placed in another magazine or placed a safe distance from the magazine, where they shall be properly guarded and protected until repairs have been completed. Upon completion of repairs, the explosive materials shall be promptly returned to the magazine. Floors shall be cleaned before and after repairs.
Magazine floors stained with liquid shall be dealt with in accordance with instructions obtained from the manufacturer of the explosive material stored in the magazine.
Magazines containing explosive materials shall be opened and inspected at maximum seven-day intervals. The inspection shall determine whether there has been an unauthorized or attempted entry into a magazine or an unauthorized removal of a magazine or its contents.
The fire code official shall be notified immediately where deteriorated or leaking explosive materials are determined to be dangerous or unstable and in need of disposal.
Where an explosive material has deteriorated to an extent that it is in an unstable or dangerous condition, or when a liquid has leaked from an explosive material, the person in possession of such material shall immediately contact the material's manufacturer to obtain disposal and handling instructions.
The work of destroying explosive materials shall be directed by persons experienced in the destruction of explosive materials.
Explosive materials and fireworks recovered from blasting or display misfires shall be placed in a magazine until an experienced person has determined the proper method for disposal.
Sites for the destruction of explosive materials and fireworks shall be approved and located at the maximum practicable safe distance from inhabited buildings, public highways, operating buildings and all other exposures to ensure keeping air blast and ground vibration to a minimum. The location of disposal sites shall not be closer to magazines, inhabited buildings, railways, highways and other rights-of-way than is allowed by Tables 5604.5.2(1), 5604.5.2(2) and 5604.5.2(3). Where possible, barricades shall be utilized between the destruction site and inhabited buildings. Areas where explosives are detonated or burned shall be posted with adequate warning signs.
Unless an approved burning site has been thoroughly saturated with water and has passed a safety inspection, 48 hours shall elapse between the completion of a burn and the placement of scrap explosive materials for a subsequent burn.
Once an explosive burn operation has been started, personnel shall relocate to a safe location where adequate protection from air blast and flying debris is provided. Personnel shall not return to the burn area until the person in charge has inspected the burn site and determined that it is safe for personnel to return.
The manufacture, assembly and testing of explosives, ammunition, blasting agents and fireworks shall comply with the requirements of this section and NFPA 495 or NFPA 1124.
Exceptions:
- The hand loading of small arms ammunition prepared for personal use and not offered for resale.
- The mixing and loading of blasting agents at blasting sites in accordance with NFPA 495.
- The use of binary explosives or plosophoric materials in blasting or pyrotechnic special effects applications in accordance with NFPA 495 or NFPA 1126.
Detailed Hazardous Materials Management Plans (HMMP) and Hazardous Materials Inventory Statements (HMIS) complying with the requirements of Section 407 shall be prepared and submitted to the local emergency planning committee, the fire code official and the local fire department.
A copy of the required HMMP and HMIS shall be maintained on site and furnished to the fire code official on request.
Workers who handle explosives or explosive charges or dispose of explosives shall be trained in the hazards of the materials and processes in which they are to be engaged and with the safety rules governing such materials and processes.
Approved emergency procedures shall be formulated for each plant and shall include personal instruction in any anticipated emergency. Personnel shall be made aware of an emergency warning signal.
Explosives manufacturing buildings and fireworks manufacturing buildings, including those where explosive charges are assembled, manufactured, prepared or loaded utilizing Division 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4 or 1.5 explosives, shall be separated from all other buildings, including magazines, within the confines of the manufacturing plant, at a distance not less than those shown in Table 5605.3 or 5604.5.2(3), as appropriate.
The quantity of explosives in an operating building shall be the net weight of all explosives contained therein. Distances shall be based on the hazard division requiring the greatest separation, unless the aggregate explosive weight is divided by approved walls or shields designed for that purpose. Where dividing a quantity of explosives into smaller stacks, a suitable barrier or adequate separation distance shall be provided to prevent propagation from one stack to another.
Where distance is used as the sole means of separation within a building, such distance shall be established by testing. Testing shall demonstrate that propagation between stacks will not result. Barriers provided to protect against explosive effects shall be designed and installed in accordance with approved standards.
Exception: Fireworks manufacturing buildings separated in accordance with NFPA 1124.
MINIMUM INTRALINE (INTRAPLANT) SEPARATION DISTANCES (ILD OR IPD) BETWEEN BARRICADED OPERATING BUILDINGS CONTAINING EXPLOSIVES—DIVISION 1.1, 1.2 OR 1.5 MASS-EXPLOSION HAZARDa
| NET EXPLOSIVE WEIGHT | ||
| Pounds over | Pounds not over | Intraline Distance (ILD) or Intraplant Distance (IPD) (feet) |
| 0 | 50 | 30 |
| 50 | 100 | 40 |
| 100 | 200 | 50 |
| 200 | 300 | 60 |
| 300 | 400 | 65 |
| 400 | 500 | 70 |
| 500 | 600 | 75 |
| 600 | 700 | 80 |
| 700 | 800 | 85 |
| 800 | 900 | 90 |
| 900 | 1,000 | 95 |
| 1,000 | 1,500 | 105 |
| 1,500 | 2,000 | 115 |
| 2,000 | 3,000 | 130 |
| 3,000 | 4,000 | 140 |
| 4,000 | 5,000 | 150 |
| 5,000 | 6,000 | 160 |
| 6,000 | 7,000 | 170 |
| 7,000 | 8,000 | 180 |
| 8,000 | 9,000 | 190 |
| 9,000 | 10,000 | 200 |
| 10,000 | 15,000 | 225 |
| 15,000 | 20,000 | 245 |
| — | — | — |
| 20,000 | 25,000 | 265 |
| 25,000 | 30,000 | 280 |
| 30,000 | 35,000 | 295 |
| 35,000 | 40,000 | 310 |
| 40,000 | 45,000 | 320 |
| 45,000 | 50,000 | 330 |
| 50,000 | 55,000 | 340 |
| 55,000 | 60,000 | 350 |
| 60,000 | 65,000 | 360 |
| 65,000 | 70,000 | 370 |
| 70,000 | 75,000 | 385 |
| 75,000 | 80,000 | 390 |
| 80,000 | 85,000 | 395 |
| 85,000 | 90,000 | 400 |
| 90,000 | 95,000 | 410 |
| 95,000 | 100,000 | 415 |
| 100,000 | 125,000 | 450 |
| 125,000 | 150,000 | 475 |
| 150,000 | 175,000 | 500 |
| 175,000 | 200,000 | 525 |
| 200,000 | 225,000 | 550 |
| 225,000 | 250,000 | 575 |
| 250,000 | 275,000 | 600 |
| 275,000 | 300,000 | 635 |
For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 pound = 0.454 kg.
- Where a building or magazine containing explosives is not barricaded, the intraline distances shown in this table shall be doubled.
Where an operating building on an explosive materials plant site is designed to contain explosive materials, such a building shall be located away from inhabited buildings, public traffic routes and magazines in accordance with Table 5604.5.2(2) or 5604.5.2(3) as appropriate, based on the maximum quantity of explosive materials permitted to be in the building at one time (see Section 5601.8).
Exception: Fireworks manufacturing buildings constructed and operated in accordance with NFPA 1124.
In addition to the requirements of Section 5601.8 to determine the net explosive weight for materials stored or used in operating buildings, quantities of explosive materials stored in magazines located at distances less than intraline distances from the operating building shall be added to the contents of the operating building to determine the net explosive weight for the operating building.
The storage of explosive materials located in indoor magazines in operating buildings shall be limited to a net explosive weight not to exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
The storage of explosive materials in outdoor magazines located at less than intraline distances from operating buildings shall be limited to a net explosive weight not to exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
The storage of explosive materials in outdoor magazines in quantities exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) net explosive weight shall be limited to storage in outdoor magazines located not less than intraline distances from the operating building in accordance with Section 5604.5.2.
The aggregate quantity of explosive materials stored in any combination of indoor magazines or outdoor magazines located at less than the intraline distances from an operating building shall not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
Buildings or rooms that exceed the maximum allowable quantity per control area of explosive materials shall be operated in accordance with this section and constructed in accordance with the requirements of the International Building Code for Group H occupancies.
Exception: Fireworks manufacturing buildings constructed and operated in accordance with NFPA 1124.
Explosives dust shall not be exhausted to the atmosphere.
When collecting explosives dust, a wet collector system shall be used. Wetting agents shall be compatible with the explosives. Collector systems shall be interlocked with process power supplies so that the process cannot continue without the collector systems operating.
Explosives dust shall be removed from the collection chamber as often as necessary to prevent overloading. The entire system shall be cleaned at a frequency that will eliminate hazardous concentrations of explosives dust in pipes, tubing and ducts.
Squirrel cage blowers shall not be used for exhausting hazardous fumes, vapors or gases. Only nonferrous fan blades shall be used for fans located within the ductwork and through which hazardous materials are exhausted. Motors shall be located outside the duct.
Work stations shall be separated by distance, barrier or other approved alternatives so that fire in one station will not ignite material in another work station. Where necessary, the operator shall be protected by a personnel shield located between the operator and the explosive device or explosive material being processed. This shield and its support shall be capable of withstanding a blast from the maximum amount of explosives allowed behind it.
Where the type of material and processing warrants, mechanical operations involving explosives in excess of 1 pound (0.454 kg) shall be carried on at isolated stations or at intraplant distances, and machinery shall be controlled from remote locations behind barricades or at separations so that workers will be at a safe distance while machinery is operating.
The work area where the screening, grinding, blending and other processing of static-sensitive explosives or pyrotechnic materials is done shall be provided with approved static controls.
Bulk explosives shall be kept in approved, nonsparking containers when not being used or processed. Explosives shall not be stored or transported in open containers.
The quantity of explosives at any particular work station shall be limited to that posted on the load limit signs for the individual work station. The total quantity of explosives for multiple workstations shall not exceed that established by the intraplant distances in Table 5605.3 or 5604.5.2(3), as appropriate.
Magazines used for storage in processing areas shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section 5604.5.1. Explosive materials shall be removed to appropriate storage magazines for unattended storage at the end of the workday. The contents of indoor magazines shall be added to the quantity of explosives contained at individual workstations and the total quantity of material stored, processed or used shall be utilized to establish the intraplant separation distances indicated by Table 5605.3 or 5604.5.2(3), as appropriate.
Approved receptacles with covers shall be provided for each location for disposing of waste material and debris. These waste receptacles shall be emptied and cleaned as often as necessary but not less than once each day or at the end of each shift.
General safety rules and operating instructions governing the particular operation or process conducted at that location shall be available at each location.
The number of occupants in each process building and in each magazine shall not exceed the number necessary for proper conduct of production operations.
Not more than 500 pounds (227 kg) of pyrotechnic or explosive composition, including not more than 10 pounds (5 kg) of salute powder shall be allowed at one time in any process building or area. Compositions not in current use shall be kept in covered nonferrous containers.
Exception: Composition that has been loaded or pressed into tubes or other containers as consumer fireworks.
Fireworks, explosives or explosive charges in explosive materials manufacturing, assembly or testing shall not be stored near any source of heat.
Exception: Approved drying or curing operations.
Maintenance and repair of explosives-manufacturing facilities and areas shall comply with Section 5604.8.
Detonation of explosive materials or ignition of fireworks for testing purposes shall be done only in isolated areas at sites where distance, protection from missiles, shrapnel or flyrock, and other safeguards provides protection against injury to personnel or damage to property.
Protective clothing and equipment shall be provided to protect persons engaged in the testing, ignition or detonation of explosive materials.
Where tests are being conducted or explosives are being detonated, only authorized persons shall be present. Areas where explosives are regularly or frequently detonated or burned shall be approved and posted with adequate warning signs. Warning devices shall be activated before burning or detonating explosives to alert persons approaching from any direction that they are approaching a danger zone.
Disposal of explosive materials waste from manufacturing, assembly or testing operations shall be in accordance with Section 5604.10.
Indoor storage and display of black powder, smokeless propellants, small arms primers and small arms ammunition shall comply with this section and NFPA 495.
Small arms ammunition shall not be stored together with Division 1.1, Division 1.2 or Division 1.3 explosives unless the storage facility is suitable for the storage of explosive materials.
Smokeless propellants shall be stored in approved shipping containers conforming to DOTn 49 CFR Part 173.
The bulk repackaging of smokeless propellants, black powder and small arms primers shall not be performed in retail establishments.
Damaged containers shall not be repackaged.
Exception: Approved repackaging of damaged containers of smokeless propellant into containers of the same type and size as the original container.
The storage of small arms ammunition components in Group R occupancies shall comply with Sections 5606.4.1 through 5606.4.3.
Black powder for personal use in quantities not exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) shall be stored in original containers in occupancies limited to Group R-3. Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) shall not be stored in any Group R occupancy.
Smokeless propellants for personal use in quantities not exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) shall be stored in original containers in occupancies limited to Group R-3. Smokeless propellants in quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg) but not exceeding 50 pounds (23 kg) and kept in a wooden box or cabinet having walls of not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness shall be allowed to be stored in occupancies limited to Group R-3. Quantities exceeding these amounts shall not be stored in any Group R occupancy.
Not more than 10,000 small arms primers shall be stored in occupancies limited to Group R-3.
The display and storage of small arms ammunition components in Group M occupancies shall comply with Sections 5606.5.1 through 5606.5.2.3.
Display of small arms ammunition components in Group M occupancies shall comply with Sections 5606.5.1.1 through 5606.5.1.3.
Not more than 20 pounds (9 kg) of smokeless propellants, in containers of 1 pound (0.454 kg) or less capacity each, shall be displayed in Group M occupancies.
Not more than 1 pound (0.454 kg) of black powder shall be displayed in Group M occupancies.
Not more than 10,000 small arms primers shall be displayed in Group M occupancies.
Storage of small arms ammunition components shall comply with Sections 5606.5.2.1 through 5606.5.2.3.
Commercial stocks of smokeless propellants shall be stored as follows:
- Quantities exceeding 20 pounds (9 kg), but not exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg) shall be stored in portable wooden boxes having walls of not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness.
- Quantities exceeding 100 pounds (45 kg), but not exceeding 800 pounds (363 kg), shall be stored in nonportable storage cabinets having walls not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness. Not more than 400 pounds (182 kg) shall be stored in any one cabinet, and cabinets shall be separated by a distance of not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) or by a fire partition having a fire-resistance rating of not less than 1 hour.
- Storage of quantities exceeding 800 pounds (363 kg), but not exceeding 5,000 pounds (2270 kg) in a building shall comply with all of the following:
- The warehouse or storage room is not open to unauthorized personnel.
- Smokeless propellant shall be stored in nonportable storage cabinets having wood walls not less than 1 inch (25 mm) nominal thickness and having shelves with not more than 3 feet (914 mm) of separation between shelves.
- Not more than 400 pounds (182 kg) is stored in any one cabinet.
- Cabinets shall be located against walls of the storage room or warehouse with not less than 40 feet (12 192 mm) between cabinets.
- The minimum required separation between cabinets shall be 20 feet (6096 mm) provided that barricades twice the height of the cabinets are attached to the wall, midway between each cabinet. The barricades must extend not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) outward, be firmly attached to the wall and be constructed of steel not less than 1/4 inch thick (6.4 mm), 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness wood, brick or concrete block.
- Smokeless propellant shall be separated from materials classified as combustible liquids, flammable liquids, flammable solids or oxidizing materials by a distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) or by a fire partition having a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour.
- The building shall be equipped throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- Smokeless propellants not stored in accordance with Item 1, 2, or 3 shall be stored in a Type 2 or 4 magazine in accordance with Section 5604 and NFPA 495.
Commercial stocks of black powder in quantities less than 50 pounds (23 kg) shall be allowed to be stored in Type 2 or 4 indoor or outdoor magazines. Quantities greater than 50 pounds (23 kg) shall be stored in outdoor Type 2 or 4 magazines. Where black powder and smokeless propellants are stored together in the same magazine, the total quantity shall not exceed that permitted for black powder.
Commercial stocks of small arms primers shall be stored as follows:
- Quantities not to exceed 750,000 small arms primers stored in a building shall be arranged such that not more than 100,000 small arms primers are stored in any one pile and piles are not less than 15 feet (4572 mm) apart.
- Quantities exceeding 750,000 small arms primers stored in a building shall comply with all of the following:
- The warehouse or storage building is not open to unauthorized personnel.
- Small arms primers shall be stored in cabinets. Not more than 200,000 small arms primers shall be stored in any one cabinet.
- Shelves in cabinets shall have vertical separation of not less than 2 feet (610 mm).
- Cabinets shall be located against walls of the warehouse or storage room with not less than 40 feet (12 192 mm) between cabinets. The minimum required separation between cabinets shall be allowed to be reduced to 20 feet (6096 mm) provided that barricades twice the height of the cabinets are attached to the wall, midway between each cabinet. The barricades shall be firmly attached to the wall and shall be constructed of steel not less than 1/4 inch thick (6.4 mm), 2-inch (51 mm) nominal thickness wood, brick or concrete block.
- Small arms primers shall be separated from materials classified as combustible liquids, flammable liquids, flammable solids or oxidizing materials by a distance of 25 feet (7620 mm) by a fire partition having a fire-resistance rating of 1 hour.
- The building shall be protected throughout with an automatic sprinkler system installed in accordance with Section 903.3.1.1.
- Small arms primers not stored in accordance with Item 1 or 2 of this section shall be stored in a magazine meeting the requirements of Section 5604 and NFPA 495.
Blasting operations shall be conducted only by approved, competent operators familiar with the required safety precautions and the hazards involved and in accordance with the provisions of NFPA 495.
Blasting operations shall be performed in accordance with the instructions of the manufacturer of the explosive materials being used.
Where blasting is done in a congested area or in close proximity to a structure, railway or highway, or any other installation, precautions shall be taken to minimize earth vibrations and air blast effects. Blasting mats or other protective means shall be used to prevent fragments from being thrown.
Surface-blasting operations shall only be conducted during daylight hours between sunrise and sunset. Other blasting shall be performed during daylight hours unless otherwise approved by the fire code official.
Where blasting is being conducted in the vicinity of utility lines or rights-of-way, the blaster shall notify the appropriate representatives of the utilities not less than 24 hours in advance of blasting, specifying the location and intended time of such blasting. Verbal notices shall be confirmed with written notice.
Exception: In an emergency situation, the time limit shall not apply where approved.
Precautions shall be taken to prevent accidental discharge of electric detonators from currents induced by radar and radio transmitters, lightning, adjacent power lines, dust and snow storms, or other sources of extraneous electricity.
Precautions shall be taken to prevent accidental initiation of nonelectric detonators from stray currents induced by lightning or static electricity.
During the time that holes are being loaded or are loaded with explosive materials, blasting agents or detonators, only authorized persons engaged in drilling and loading operations or otherwise authorized to enter the site shall be allowed at the blast site. The blast site shall be guarded or barricaded and posted. Blast site security shall be maintained until after the post-blast inspection has been completed.
Holes drilled for the loading of explosive charges shall be made and loaded in accordance with NFPA 495.
After loading for a blast is completed and before firing, excess explosive materials shall be removed from the area and returned to the proper storage facilities.
The initiation of blasts shall be by means conforming to the provisions of NFPA 495.
The blaster shall supervise the connecting of the blastholes and the connection of the loadline to the power source or initiation point. Connections shall be made progressively from the blasthole back to the initiation point.
Blasting lead lines shall remain shunted (shorted) and shall not be connected to the blasting machine or other source of current until the blast is to be fired.
A blast shall not be fired until the blaster has made certain that all surplus explosive materials are in a safe place in accordance with Section 5607.10, all persons and equipment are at a safe distance or under sufficient cover and that an adequate warning signal has been given.
After the blast, the following procedures shall be observed.
- Persons shall not return to the blast area until allowed to do so by the blaster in charge.
- The blaster shall allow sufficient time for smoke and fumes to dissipate and for dust to settle before returning to or approaching the blast area.
- The blaster shall inspect the entire blast site for misfires before allowing other personnel to return to the blast area.
Where a misfire is suspected, all initiating circuits shall be traced and a search made for unexploded charges. Where a misfire is found, the blaster shall provide proper safeguards for excluding all personnel from the blast area. Misfires shall be reported to the blasting supervisor immediately. Misfires shall be handled under the direction of the person in charge of the blasting operation in accordance with NFPA 495.
Outdoor fireworks displays, use of pyrotechnics before a proximate audience and pyrotechnic special effects in motion picture, television, theatrical and group entertainment productions shall comply with Sections 5608.2 through 5608.10 and NFPA 1123 or NFPA 1126.
Permits are required to conduct a fireworks display. A fireworks display is only permitted when supervised by a pyrotechnic operator certified by the state fire marshal. Unless specifically exempted by the jurisdiction, the sponsor of the proposed fireworks display must submit a written application for permit at least fifteen (15) days in advance of the date of the display. In addition to the information required in Section 5608.2, the permit application shall include the number, type and size of the fireworks to be discharged. For proximate audience displays, the plans required by Section 5608.2 shall also show the fallout radius for each pyrotechnic device used during the display. At the time of permit application, the fire chief shall be consulted regarding requirements for standby fire apparatus and personnel.
Exception:
Jurisdictions are authorized to not require permits for displays involving the use of smoke pots, flash pots and theatrical flash powder for ceremonial, theatrical and musical productions. Such displays must be conducted in accordance with this code.
Prior to issuing permits for a fireworks display, plans for the fireworks display, inspections of the display site and demonstrations of the display operations shall be approved. A plan establishing procedures to follow and actions to be taken in the event that a shell fails to ignite in, or discharge from, a mortar or fails to function over the fallout area or other malfunctions shall be provided to the fire code official.
In addition to the requirements of Section 403, permit applications for outdoor fireworks displays using Division 1.3G fireworks shall include a diagram of the location at which the fireworks display will be conducted, including the site from which fireworks will be discharged; the location of buildings, highways, overhead obstructions and utilities; and the lines behind which the audience will be restrained.
Where the separation distances required in Section 5608.4 and NFPA 1123 are unavailable or cannot be secured, fireworks displays shall be conducted in accordance with NFPA 1126 for proximate audiences. Applications for use of pyrotechnics before a proximate audience shall include plans indicating the required clearances for spectators and combustibles, crowd control measures, smoke control measures and requirements for standby personnel and equipment where provision of such personnel or equipment is required by the fire code official.
Approved fireworks displays shall include only the approved fireworks 1.3G, fireworks 1.4G, fireworks 1.4S and pyrotechnic articles 1.4G, which shall be handled by an approved, competent operator. The approved fireworks shall be arranged, located, discharged and fired in a manner that will not pose a hazard to property or endanger any person.
Spectators, spectator parking areas, and dwellings, buildings or structures shall not be located within the display site.
Exceptions:
- This provision shall not apply to pyrotechnic special effects and fireworks displays using Division 1.4G materials before a proximate audience in accordance with NFPA 1126.
- This provision shall not apply to unoccupied dwellings, buildings and structures with the approval of the building owner and the fire code official.
The storage of fireworks at the display site shall comply with the requirements of this section and NFPA 1123 or NFPA 1126.
Beginning as soon as fireworks have been delivered to the display site, they shall not be left unattended.
Fireworks shall be kept dry after delivery to the display site.
Shells shall be inspected by the operator or assistants after delivery to the display site. Shells having tears, leaks, broken fuses or signs of having been wet shall be set aside and shall not be fired. Aerial shells shall be checked for proper fit in mortars prior to discharge. Aerial shells that do not fit properly shall not be fired. After the fireworks display, damaged, deteriorated or dud shells shall either be returned to the supplier or destroyed in accordance with the supplier's instructions and Section 5604.10.
Exception: Minor repairs to fuses shall be allowed. For electrically ignited displays, attachment of electric matches and similar tasks shall be allowed.
After delivery to the display site and prior to the fireworks display, all shells shall be separated according to their size and their designation as salutes.
Exception: For electrically fired displays, or displays where all shells are loaded into mortars prior to the show, separation of shells according to their size or their designation as salutes is not required.
Display fireworks, 1.3G, that will be temporarily stored at the site during the fireworks display shall be stored in ready boxes located upwind and not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from the mortar placement and separated according to their size and their designation as salutes.
Exception: For electrically fired fireworks displays, or fireworks displays where all shells are loaded into mortars prior to the show, separation of shells according to their size, their designation as salutes or for the use of ready boxes is not required.
Mortars for firing fireworks shells shall be installed in accordance with NFPA 1123 and shall be positioned so that shells are propelled away from spectators and over the fallout area. Mortars shall not be angled toward the spectator viewing area. Prior to placement, mortars shall be inspected for defects, such as dents, bent ends, damaged interiors and damaged plugs. Defective mortars shall not be used.
Whenever in the opinion of the fire code official or the operator a hazardous condition exists, the fireworks display shall be discontinued immediately until such time as the dangerous situation is corrected.
After the fireworks display, the firing crew shall conduct an inspection of the fallout area for the purpose of locating unexploded aerial shells or live components. This inspection shall be conducted before public access to the site shall be allowed. Where fireworks are displayed at night and it is not possible to inspect the site thoroughly, the operator or designated assistant shall inspect the entire site at first light.
A report identifying any shells that fail to ignite in, or discharge from, a mortar or fail to function over the fallout area or otherwise malfunction, shall be filed with the fire code official.
Any shells found during the inspection required in Section 5608.9 shall not be handled until not less than 15 minutes have elapsed from the time the shells were fired. The fireworks shall then be doused with water and allowed to remain for not less than 5 additional minutes before being placed in a plastic bucket or fiberboard box. The disposal instructions of the manufacturer as provided by the fireworks supplier shall then be followed in disposing of the fireworks in accordance with Section 5604.10.
Deleted.