From: Daniel Crowl <crowl**At_Symbol_Here**MTU.EDU>
Subject: Re: [DCHAS-L] Gas cylinders storage in hallways
Date: December 14, 2012 9:29:42 AM EST
Reply-To: DCHAS-L <DCHAS-L**At_Symbol_Here**MED.CORNELL.EDU>
Message-ID: <2D10722CDD332D4B8D9E287332F92B963D6D04D952**At_Symbol_Here**MBCLUSTER.xchange.nist.gov>


I believe the fire code requirements for means of egress are more than compelling to prevent this practice. I suspect some of these cylinders contain flammable and/or toxic gases - which makes the situation a lot worse. Probably violates the fire code for storage of flammables. This also presents a huge problem for fire fighters and emergency response folks who have to work their way thru halls lined with potential bombs. If I was a fire fighter and presented with this situation I would probably make a hasty retreat.
Dan Crowl
Michigan Tech University


On Thu, Dec 13, 2012 at 12:31 PM, Ringen, Sonja G. <sonja.ringen**At_Symbol_Here**nist.gov> wrote:

Other than best practices, I am having a difficult time finding a specific reference in any standard or regulation that would specifically prohibit storage of nitrogen and/or carbon dioxide compressed gas cylinders in hallways. We've looked at fire code, building code, OSHA regulations, ANSI, and Compressed Gas Association standards. Many universities have their own rules prohibiting it (best practice), and I'm wondering if it is related to security of the cylinders (to prohibit tampering with the cylinder).

Other than fire code prohibiting obstructions for egress, I am having trouble finding a compelling regulatory requirement that would satisfy our researchers. The cylinders currently in the halls are securely fastened to the wall and they have signage.

Any suggestions?

Sonja

Sonja Ringen

Safety Specialist

Boulder Safety, Health and Environment

National Institute of Standards and Technology

325 Broadway, MC 153.02

Boulder, CO 80305

Work: 303-497-7389

Mobile: 303-961-9251


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