FMDS0731
FMDS0731
FMDS0731
Table of Contents
Page
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7-31 Storage of Aerosol Products
Page 2 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets
List of Figures
Fig. 1. Aerosol product classification ............................................................................................................. 4
Fig. 2a. Design of fencing where adjacent storage is protected with Scheme A ......................................... 8
Fig. 2b. Design of fencing where adjacent storage is not protected with Scheme A .................................. 9
Fig. 3. Example of a labyrinth opening arrangement for a cutoff room opening. ...................................... 10
Fig. 4a. Separation of aerosol product storage from non-aerosol storage using a chain link fence ......... 13
Fig. 4b. Separation of aerosol product storage from non-aerosol storage using a solid vertical barrier .. 14
Fig. 5a. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — single row racks ..................................................... 33
Fig. 5b. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — double row racks ................................................... 34
Fig. 5c. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — multiple row racks .................................................. 35
Fig. 6a. Cartoned Level 3 aerosol products — single row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage
in quick-response sprinkler protected building .............................................................................. 36
Fig. 6b. Cartoned Level 3 aerosol products — double row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage
in quick-response sprinkler protected building .............................................................................. 37
Fig. 7a. Cartoned Level 3 aerosol products — single row racks ............................................................... 38
Fig. 7b. Cartoned Level 3 aerosol products — double row racks .............................................................. 39
Fig. 7c. Cartoned Level 3 aerosol products — multiple row racks ............................................................ 40
Fig. 8a. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, clearance more than 15 ft (4.6 m) — single row racks . 41
Fig. 8b. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, clearance more than 15 ft (4.6 m) — double row racks . 42
Fig. 8c. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, clearance more than 15 ft (4.6 m) — multiple row racks . 43
Fig. 9a. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — single row racks up to 20 ft (6.1 m) high storage . 44
Fig. 9b. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — double row racks up to 20 ft (6.1 m) high storage . 45
Fig. 9c. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — multiple row racks up to 20 ft (6.1 m) high storage . 46
Fig. 10a. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — single row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage . 47
Fig. 10b. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — double row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage . 48
Fig. 10c. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol product — multiple row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage . 49
Fig. 11a. Single row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A ....................................... 51
Fig. 11b. Single row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A ....................................... 52
Fig. 11c. Double row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A ...................................... 53
Fig. 11d. Multiple row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A ..................................... 54
Fig. 12a. Aerosol product picking area elevation view ............................................................................... 56
Fig. 12b. Aerosol product picking area plan view ...................................................................................... 56
Fig. 13a. Mercantile storage, Option 1 ........................................................................................................ 58
Fig. 13b. Mercantile storage, Option 2 ....................................................................................................... 59
Fig. 13c. Mercantile storage, Option 3 ....................................................................................................... 60
List of Tables
Table 1. Aerosol Product Classification ......................................................................................................... 4
Table 2. Chemical Heat of Combustion for Various Materials ...................................................................... 5
Table 3. Aerosol Product Storage Location Options .................................................................................... 6
Table 4. Hose Demand and Water Supply Duration Design Guidelines ...................................................... 12
Table 5. Palletized and Solid Pile Storage of Level 2 Aerosol Products ................................................... 15
Table 6. Palletized and Solid Pile Storage of Level 3 Aerosol Products ................................................... 16
Table 7. Rack Storage of Cartoned Level 2 Aerosol Products .................................................................. 17
Table 8. Rack Storage of Cartoned Level 3 Aerosol Products .................................................................. 18
Table 8. Rack Storage of Cartoned Level 3 Aerosol Products (continued) ............................................... 19
Table 9. Rack Storage of Uncartoned Level 2 Aerosol Products ................................................................. 20
Table 10. Rack Storage of Uncartoned Level 3 Aerosol Products ............................................................. 21
Table 11. Rack, Palletized, and Solid-Pile Storage of Cartoned Aerosol Cooking Spray Products ............ 22
Table 12. Rack Storage of Plastic Aerosol 3 Products ................................................................................. 22
Table 13. Chemical Heat of Combustion Data ............................................................................................ 30
Table 13. Chemical Heat of Combustion Data (continued) ......................................................................... 31
1.0 SCOPE
This data sheet provides protection recommendations on the storage of Level 1, 2, and 3 aerosol products
stored in metal containers; aerosol cooking spray products in metal containers; and aerosol products in
plastic containers up to a maximum size of 33.8 oz (1000 ml).
This data sheet does not apply to other products consisting of ignitable liquids and flammable or nonflammable
gas propellants stored in larger containers. That guidance is provided in other FM Global property loss
prevention data sheets, including the following:
• 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable Containers
• 7-32, Ignitable Liquid Operations
• 7-50, Compressed Gases in Cylinders
• 7-55, Liquefied Petroleum Gas
• 7-88, Storage Tanks for Ignitable Liquids
1.1 Changes
January 2019. Interim revision. Incorporated guidance for plastic aerosol 3 products. The following changes
were made:
A. Added a definition of plastic aerosol 3 products.
B. Added guidance on construction and location for plastic aerosol 3 products (Table 3).
C. Created a new table with protection guidance for plastic aerosol 3 products (Table 12).
D. Added guidance on mercantile storage of plastic aerosol 3 products.
2.1 Introduction
The classification of aerosol products is critical to providing adequate protection. The classification method
used for aerosol products in metal containers is based on the results for full scale fire tests involving those
types of products. This classification cannot be applied to aerosol products in non-metal containers. A new
classification method for plastic aerosol products has been developed. It is also based on full scale fire testing
results.
The biggest challenge in determining how to adequately product aerosol products is the proper classification
of the products. Not all countries/codes support the classification system used in this standard however, the
system presented here for aerosol products in metal and plastic containers is the only approach tied to
defining adequate protection for the storage of aerosol products in warehouses. In the United States the
transportation code and NFPA 30B, Code for the Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products, use the same
classification system presented in this standard. Both codes require the boxes to be properly labelled
including the new labelling for aerosol products in plastic containers.
2.1.1 Aerosol Product Classification: Aerosol Products in Metal Containers of 33.8 oz (1000 ml) or Less
2.1.1.1 Classify aerosol products using one of the following methods:
A. Sum the chemical heat of combustion for the constituent components of the aerosol product (e.g.,
propellant, liquid products) multiplied by their weight fraction. This is represented in mathematical notation
by the following formula:
∆Hcht = Σ xi∆Hchi
Where ∆Hcht = total chemical heat of combustion of the product, Btu/lb [kJ/g]
xi = weight fraction of component i
∆Hchi = chemical heat of combustion of component i
Based on the calculated chemical heat of combustion, use Table 1 to classify the aerosol product.
C. Classify the aerosol product as Level 3 if its composition is not known and test results are not available.
2.1.1.2 Determine the chemical heat of combustion for the component materials of an aerosol product using
one of the following means:
A. If the exact aerosol product components and their weight fraction are known, use the chemical heat
of combustion data in Table 13, located in Appendix D of this document.
B. If the exact aerosol product components and their weight fraction are known but the chemical heat of
combustion is not available, use the total heat of combustion as determined by oxygen bomb calorimeter
measurements.
C. If the exact components of the aerosol product are not known but the product can be broken down
by weight fraction into the generic groups of hydrocarbon (e.g., propellant, non-water-miscible ignitable
liquids), alcohol (e.g., ethanol, isopropanol), and inert (e.g., solids, nonignitable liquids), use the values
shown in Table 2.
D. Conduct an oxygen bomb calorimeter test on the aerosol product mixture, including the propellant.
Note: Consider materials inert if they are nonignitable liquids (e.g., water, liquids without a fire point), solids
(e.g., powders), or nonflammable gases (e.g., carbon dioxide).
2.1.2 Aerosol Product Classification: Aerosol Cooking Spray Products in Metal Containers of 33.8 oz (1000
ml) or Less
2.1.2.1 Classify an aerosol product in a metal container as an aerosol cooking spray product if both of the
following are:
A. The product is designed to deliver a vegetable oil, a solid, or nonignitable liquid to reduce sticking on
cooking and baking surfaces, or to be applied on food, or both.
B. The product has a chemical heat of combustion that is higher than 20 KJ/g (8600 Btu/lb), and no more
than 18% of its contents is a hydrocarbon propellant.
2.1.2.1.1 If the aerosol cooking spray product has a chemical heat of combustion that is 20 KJ/g (8600 Btu/lb)
or lower, consider it a Level 1 aerosol product.
2.1.2.1.2 If the aerosol cooking spray has more than 18% hydrocarbon propellant, classify it in accordance
with the product’s chemical heat of combustion.
2.1.3 Aerosol Product Classification: Aerosol Products in Plastic Containers of 33.8 oz (1000 ml) or Less
A. Provide a floor-to-ceiling chain link fence that completely surrounds the designated aerosol product
storage area. Fencing can use the rack structure for support. Alternatively, provide noncombustible
impact-resistant barriers (e.g., minimum 22 gauge [0.7 mm] sheet metal) within the racks.
B. Use fencing that is at least 9 gauge (3.8 mm) steel wire woven into a maximum 2 in. (50 mm) diamond
mesh.
2.2.5 Where Scheme A is used to protect the rack storage of Level 2 and Level 3 aerosol products located
within a general purpose warehouse, the fencing specified in Section 2.2.4 does not need to be included
in the aisles if adjacent racks are also protected with Scheme A. Fencing is only necessary at the outermost
rack bays. Where adjacent racks are not protected with Scheme A, fencing is necessary around the entire
perimeter of aerosol products storage. See Figures 2a and 2b.
Plan View
Fig. 2a. Design of fencing where adjacent storage is protected with Scheme A
Plan View
Fig. 2b. Design of fencing where adjacent storage is not protected with Scheme A
2.2.6 For cutoff rooms and dedicated areas in general purpose warehouses, protect openings with normally
closed, automatically closing doors.
2.2.6.1 Arrange doors to automatically close in the event of a fire.
A.The use of a fusible link at ceiling level, sprinkler water flow alarm, heat detector, or a flame detector
are acceptable means of releasing the door.
B.A less-desirable approach is to arrange a normally open door to automatically close when actuated
by a fire inside or directly outside the room or area.
2.2.6.2 An alternative for openings in chain link fence-enclosed areas is to design a doorless opening (e.g.,
a labyrinth or tunnel approach) that does not provide a direct line of sight for a rocketing can to the area
outside the enclosure (see Figure 3).
Cutoff room
Aerosol product
Fence
Direct line of sight for
rocketing aerosol can
2.2.7 In cases where aerosol storage directly expose doors in MFL walls, provide a labyrinth style barrier
(See Fig. 3) at the opening in addition to the normally provided fire doors.
2.2.7.1 An acceptable alternative is to arrange the fire doors to automatically close by activation of a flame
detector.
A. Arrange one flame detector to provide complete line-of-sight coverage across the front of the opening
(near field).
B. Arrange a second flame detector to provide far field coverage over the top of storage.
C. Arrange doors to automatically close in the event of power loss.
2.2.8 For all detached buildings or cutoff rooms, provide an FM Approved roof covering that consists of a
Class 1 internal fire resistance (see Data Sheet 1-29, Roof Deck Securement and Above-Deck Roofing
Components) and an ASTM E108 Class A-rated external fire resistance (see Data Sheet 1-29).
2.2.8.1 For cutoff rooms that have ceilings below the main building’s roof, provide a ceiling assembly that
has the same fire resistance as the interior walls of the cutoff room.
2.2.8.2 For cutoff rooms that have wooden roof assemblies, isolate the wooden roof with the same fire
resistance as that needed for the interior walls of the cutoff room. Provide sprinklers in any resulting
combustible spaces in accordance with Data Sheet 1-12, Ceilings and Concealed Spaces.
2.2.9 FM Approved prefabricated ignitable liquids storage buildings (PILSB) may be used as an alternative
to a permanently constructed cutoff or detached aerosol products storage room. The PILSB must provide all
of the active and passive protection features recommended in this data sheet (fire rating, automatic fire
protection, etc.).
2.2.10 Special storage arrangements or equipment may be used for small quantities of aerosol products,
including the following:
A. Store individual cartons or cans inside FM Approved ignitable liquid cabinets. Arrange the cabinets
as follows:
1. If storing plastic aerosol X products, restrict quantities as necessary so the liquid contents of all
stored aerosol containers does not exceed that specified in the cabinet’s FM Approval listing.
2. Cutoff is not needed from storage or nonstorage occupancies.
3. Provide a minimum of 20 ft (6 m) separation between cabinets and storage areas.
4. Do not put cabinets within rack storage arrangements.
5. Provide adequate protection for the surrounding occupancy.
B. Use portable, noncombustible bins to store pallet-load quantities. Enclose the bins on all sides, including
the tops and bottoms. Construct the bins of 18 gauge (1.2 mm) steel with a continuous weld at fixed
seams. Provide access to the container using a hinged door, with only a friction latch arranged in such
a way that the door has to be closed so as not to obstruct the aisle. Individual designs are likely to be
needed for such bins.
2.2.10.1 These storage methods are alternatives to the location recommendations in this data sheet (i.e.,
cutoff room or dedicated area), but they do not alter the sprinkler protection recommendations.
2.2.10.2 If stored in racks, limit these containers to the first tier of the rack, with no combustibles located
below except for the pallet. Provide in-rack sprinklers over such storage in accordance with Section 2.4.
Determine the need for additional in-rack sprinkler protection based on the other commodities in the racks.
2.2.11 Shipping/Receiving Areas
2.2.11.1 For loading docks where aerosol products are staged, provide construction and protection as
recommended by this data sheet. The term ″staged″ in this context excludes continuous movement of
containers from inside the shipping vehicle directly to the storage area.
2.2.11.2 Where small amounts of aerosol product outside of appropriately arranged storage areas cannot
be avoided, such as in staging areas, provide racking in the staging area sufficient for the required amount
of product protected with Scheme A protection.
2.2.11.3 Locate aerosol product storage areas next to shipping/receiving areas to prevent the creation of
an aerosol product fire hazard along transportation routes that are not protected for that hazard. Provide space
in the cutoff rooms for staging products before they are placed in storage or while they are waiting to be
shipped.
2.3 Occupancy
2.3.1 Maintain only aerosol product storage in designated aerosol product storage areas or cutoff rooms/
buildings.
2.3.2 Any level of aerosol product in maximum 33.8 oz (1000 ml) metal containers may be stored with ignitable
liquids in metal containers up to 33.8 oz (1000 ml), if the provided fire protection scheme, isolation, and
construction features are fully adequate for both storage types. Refer to Data Sheet 7-29, Ignitable Liquid
Storage in Portable Containers. Do not mix aerosol product storage with ignitable liquid storage beyond this
limit. In all other cases, maintain only aerosol product storage in designated aerosol product storage areas
or cutoff rooms or buildings.
2.3.2.1 Do not mix storage of plastic aerosols with ignitable liquids.
2.3.3 Where Scheme A is used to protect the rack storage of Level 2 and Level 3 aerosol products, mixed
storage within the rack is acceptable if the following criteria are met:
2.3.2 Provide minimum 8 ft (2.4 m) aisles for all rack storage of Level 2 and 3 aerosols.
A. For double-row rack tiers fully protected with Scheme A, provide a vertical chain link fence in longitudinal
and transverse flue spaces to separate aerosol storage from adjacent storage of other commodities as
shown in Figure 4a.
B. For double-row rack tiers protected with Scheme A over aerosol product storage only (e.g., in one side
of the rack), provide a solid vertical barrier in the longitudinal and transverse flue spaces to separate
aerosol product storage from adjacent storage of other commodities as shown in Figure 4b. Protect the
2.4 Protection
2.4.1 General
2.4.1.1 Protect small propane cylinders up to 17 oz (500 ml) [nominal 1 lb (450 g) cylinders] with protection
criteria suitable for Level 3 aerosols with all of the following limitations:
A.Store containers with the relief vent in the vapor space.
B.For palletized storage use only quick response storage sprinkler protection criteria.
C.For rack storage use either (1) quick response storage sprinkler protection criteria at the ceiling or (2)
standard response storage sprinklers at the ceiling plus in-rack protection criteria.
2.4.1.2 Use a wet, preaction, or deluge sprinkler system. For information on the design of deluge and preaction
systems, refer to Sections 2.4.1.11 and 2.4.1.12, respectively.
2.4.1.3 A dry system is acceptable if the sprinkler operating area is equal to the room’s footprint as defined
by its walls, and water is delivered to the most remote sprinkler within 30 seconds of activation in a fire.
2.4.1.4 Install sprinklers in accordance with Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers.
2.4.1.5 Arrange sprinklers on a maximum 100 ft2 (9 m2) spacing.
2.4.1.6 Arrange sprinklers with a maximum spacing of 10 ft (3.0 m). A variation of ±1 ft (0.3 m) is permitted
on either dimension to avoid obstructions by structural elements.
2.4.1.7 Base the in-rack sprinkler water demand on the simultaneous operation of the most hydraulically
remote sprinklers as follows:
A. Eight (8) sprinklers where only one level of in-rack sprinklers is provided.
B. Twelve (12) sprinklers (six [6] sprinklers on two [2] levels) where only two (2) levels of in-rack sprinklers
are provided.
C. Eighteen (18) sprinklers (six [6] sprinklers on the top three [3] levels) where more than two (2) levels
of in-rack sprinkler are provided.
2.4.1.8 In-rack design flows are provided in Tables 7 through 10. The end-sprinkler discharge pressure should
be at least 15 psi (1 bar) regardless of sprinkler type.
2.4.1.9 When recommended per Tables 7 through 10, install in-rack sprinklers in accordance with Figures
5 through 10. Stagger in-rack sprinklers vertically where indicated in the figures.
2.4.1.10 Ensure the water supply is capable of providing the combined sprinkler system (ceiling protection
and, if provided, in-rack sprinklers) and hose stream demands at adequate pressure for the durations listed
in Table 4.
Plan View
= Aerosols storage
= Non-aerosols storage
= Face sprinkler
Fig. 4a. Separation of aerosol product storage from non-aerosol storage using a chain link fence
Plan View
= Aerosols storage Note: Provide in rack
automatic sprinklers as
necessary for the non-
= Non-aerosols storage aerosols storage.
= Automatic sprinkler
Fig. 4b. Separation of aerosol product storage from non-aerosol storage using a solid vertical barrier
2.4.1.11 Space detectors for interior deluge systems (pilot sprinkler, electric, or pneumatic) as follows:
A. Install pilot sprinklers on the same spacing as sprinklers.
B. Install electric or pneumatic devices under smooth ceilings in accordance with the manufacturer’s
specifications, the requirements listed in the Approval Guide for the particular model, and Data Sheet 5-48,
Automatic Fire Detection.
2.4.1.12 Space detectors for preaction systems (pilot sprinkler, electric, or pneumatic) as follows:
A. Install electric or pneumatic detectors at a spacing of one-half the listed linear detector spacing, or
the full sprinkler spacing, whichever is greater. For design purposes, treat preaction systems with this
detector spacing the same as wet systems (e.g., if a detector is FM Approved for 30 ft by 30 ft [9.1 m by
9.1 m] and allowable sprinkler spacing is 100 ft2 [9 m2], then maximum allowable linear detector spacing
is 15 ft by 15 ft [4.6 m by 4.6 m]).
If a preaction system has a detector spacing greater than the above spacing, consider it a deluge system
for design purposes. Refer to the Approval Guide for the maximum allowable spacing.
B. Install pilot sprinklers on the same spacing as the sprinklers. For design purposes, treat preaction
sprinkler systems that use pilot sprinklers the same as dry systems, regardless of detector spacing.
2.4.1.13 Provide portable extinguishers in areas (interior and exterior) where aerosol products are stored.
Use carbon dioxide, dry chemical, or AFFF extinguishers. Refer to Data Sheet 4-5, Portable Extinguishers,
to determine effective sizes and locations for the extinguishers.
2.4.2.3 Protect rack storage of Level 2 and Level 3 aerosol products in accordance with Tables 7 through
10 and Figures 5 through 10.
2.4.2.4 Protect rack, palletized, and solid-pile storage of cartoned aerosol cooking spray products in
accordance with Table 11.
2.4.2.4.1 Protect uncartoned aerosol cooking spray products as Level 2 or Level 3 aerosols based on the
product’s chemical heat of combustion.
2.4.2.5 Where aerosol products are segregated by fencing in a general purpose warehouse, provide a
consistent level of sprinkler protection throughout the dedicated area. Provide protection for the most
hazardous classification of products present. Extend the recommended ceiling protection 20 ft (6.1 m) beyond
the fence if it is more stringent than the ceiling sprinkler requirement for the adjacent occupancy.
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Table 8. Rack Storage of Cartoned Level 3 Aerosol Products
Page 18
7-31
Ceiling Sprinkler Protection (Note 1) In-Rack Sprinkler Protection (Note 1)
Maximum Maximum Response, Nominal Temperature K-Factor Design, Layout, Response, K-Factor Discharge
Ceiling Storage Minimum Rating, and Sprinkler Orientation (Note 2) # Sprinklers See Figure Nominal (Note 3), Flow,
Height, Height, Aisle Width, gpm/psi1/2 @ Pressure Temperature gpm/psi1/2 gpm (L/min)
ft (m) ft (m) ft (m) (L/min/bar1/2) psi (bar) Rating (l/min/bar1/2)
25 (7.6) 15 (4.6) 4 (1.2) QR, Ordinary, Pendent 14.0 (202) 12 @ 50 (3.4) NA NA NA NA
16.8 (235) 12 @ 35 (2.4)
22.4 (314) 12 @ 25 (1.7)
25.2 (363) 12 @ 25 (1.7)
©2016-2019 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.
Notes:
1. SR = Standard response; QR = quick response. See Appendix E for an explanation of fire protection schemes.
2. The FM Approved K19.6 (282) sprinkler is not acceptable for the protection of rack storage of cartoned Level 3 aerosol products.
3. Where IRAS with k-factors greater than listed in the table are used, the end-sprinkler discharge pressure must be at least 15 psi (1 bar).
Page 19
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Table 9. Rack Storage of Uncartoned Level 2 Aerosol Products
Page 20
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Ceiling Sprinkler Protection (Note 1) In-Rack Sprinkler Protection (Note 1)
Response, K-Factor Design, Layout Response, K-Factor Discharge Flow
Nominal (Note 2) # Sprinklers @ See Figure Nominal gpm/psi1/2 gpm (L/min)
Temperature gpm/psi1/2 Pressure Temperature (l/min/bar1/2)
Maximum Maximum Rating, and (l/min/bar1/2) psi (bar) Rating (Note 3)
Ceiling Height Storage Height Minimum Aisle Sprinkler
ft (m) ft (m) Widthft (m) Orientation
30 (9.1) 15 (4.6) 4 (1.2) QR, Ordinary, 14.0 (202) 12 @ 75 (5.2) NA NA NA NA
Pendent 16.8 (235) 12 @ 52 (3.6)
22.4 (314) 12 @ 45 (3.1)
©2016-2019 Factory Mutual Insurance Company. All rights reserved.
Page 21
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7-31 Storage of Aerosol Products
Page 22 FM Global Property Loss Prevention Data Sheets
1
Table 11. Rack, Palletized, and Solid-Pile Storage of Cartoned Aerosol Cooking Spray Products
Ceiling Sprinkler Protection
Response, K-Factor, Design,Number of
Nominal gpm/psi1/2 Sprinklers @
Temperature (L/min/bar1/2) Pressure
Maximum Ceiling Maximum Storage Minimum Aisle Rating, and psi (bar)
Height, Height, Width, Sprinkler
ft (m) ft (m) ft (m) Orientation
30 (9.1) 25 (7.6) 8 (2.4) QR, Ordinary, 14.0 (202) 12 @ 75 (5.2)
Pendent
1
Aerosol cooking spray products can be adequately protected using the protection criteria provided for Level 2 and 3 aerosol products.
2.4.2.6 Protect picking areas that contain Level 2 and Level 3 aerosol products as follows:
A. For picking in standard configuration single-row and double-row racks, locate aerosol product storage
on the first and second tiers of the rack. Install fire protection Scheme A over the picking area (see Section
E.2). Provide a chain link fence or similar restraint at the edges of the aerosol product storage area. For
example, if the aerosol product storage is located only on one side of a double-row rack, install vertical
barriers down the longitudinal flue space and at each end of the storage rack (refer to Section 2.3.3).
B. For picking in ″flow-through″ racks (those with shelves consisting of slanted rollers spaced less than
1 ft (0.3 m) apart so product loaded on one side rolls to the other), store and protect the aerosol products
in accordance with the aerosol product flow-through rack protection scheme described and illustrated
in Section E.3.
2.4.2.7 Protect aerosol product storage in automated rack storage warehouses that are higher than 30 ft
(9.1 m) with aisle widths of 4 ft (1.2 m) or more as follows:
A. Limit aerosol product storage to the bottom tiers of the racks.
B. Provide chain link fencing or noncombustible vertical barriers around the limits of the aerosol product
storage. The rack face does not need to be enclosed (refer to Section 2.3.3).
C. Provide fire protection Scheme A over all aerosol product storage within the racks. If aerosol products
are stored above the bottom two rack tiers, protect all tiers below the aerosol product storage using
Scheme A as well.
2.4.3 Warehouse Storage of Aerosol Products in Plastic Containers of 33.8 oz (1000 ml) or Less
2.4.3.1 Protect plastic aerosol 1 products using the protection criteria provided for Class 3 commodities in
Data Sheet 8-9, Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic Commodities.
2.4.3.2 Protect plastic aerosol 3 products in accordance with Table 12.
2.4.3.3 Currently there are no proven protection criteria available for plastic aerosol X products. Ideally, limit
the quantity of these products stored in a single area and locate the area well away from important buildings.
2.4.3.3.1 Protect plastic aerosol X products located in a cutoff room with a wet, dry, or deluge sprinkler
systems designed to provide 75 psi (5.2 bar) discharge pressure for all of the sprinklers in the cutoff room.
2.5 Training
2.5.1 Train facility personnel in accordance with Data Sheet 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable
Containers. Instruct and train operating employees and members of the Emergency Response Team in the
hazards of aerosol products and butane and propane containers, and in the emergency procedures to follow
in the event of an accident. Alert the public fire service to the hazards and to the fire protection provided.
3.1 General
The typical aerosol container is a small, welded-joint, high-strength container (design pressures are as high
as 240 to 400 psi [16.5 to 27.5 bar]) used to package a wide variety of consumer, industrial, and
pharmaceutical products. A partial list of products includes air fresheners, starches, cleaners, shaving creams,
furniture polishes, hair sprays, deodorants, spot removers, insecticides, lubricants, engine degreasers, and
paints. Aerosol cans have capacities up to one (1) qt. (1 L), containing up to 16 oz (475 ml) of liquid.
Propellants include propane and butane, which are highly flammable, and other gases such as nitrogen,
carbon dioxide, and nitrous oxide. Although nitrous oxide is a stable nonflammable gas, it is an oxidizer.
Nonflammable chlorofluorocarbons have been eliminated in the United States for almost all uses in
compliance with federal regulations, and have been replaced with mixtures of propane and butane.
Propellants in aerosol containers are 0.5% to more than 90% of the weight of the contents.
Aerosol products stored in metal containers have been grouped into Levels 1, 2, and 3. Level 1 aerosol
products represent the lowest fire hazard. Level 3 represents the highest fire hazard.
Level 1 aerosol products include shaving cream, spray starch, window cleaner, alkaline oven cleaner, rug
shampoo, some air fresheners, and some insecticides. The storage hazard of Level 1 aerosol products is
about the same as ordinary combustible goods in cartons. Storage should be arranged and protected
accordingly.
When a Level 1 aerosol product can fails, the nonflammable product has a quenching effect on the flammable
contents. Some products have very small quantities of flammable product. These products will have an
overall chemical heat of combustion that is low.
Level 2 aerosol products include many personal care products such as deodorant (except for oil-based
antiperspirants), hair spray, antiseptic, and anesthetic. Other products include some furniture polishes and
windshield deicers.
Level 3 aerosol products include many automotive products (engine and carburetor cleaner, undercoat), home
products (some wood polishes), paint and lacquer, lubricants, some insecticides, and oil-based
antiperspirants.
A separate aerosol classification has been created for cooking sprays stored in metal containers. Historically,
cooking sprays were classified as Level 1 aerosols due to the use of high flash point vegetable oils in the
products. However, based on full-scale fire testing, aerosol cooking spray products have been shown to
represent a fire hazard somewhere between a Level 1 aerosol product and a Level 2 aerosol product.
The use of plastic containers as a packaging method is a recent development in the aerosol industry. While
the level of protection necessary for aerosols in metal containers has been established for over 30 years,
protection methods do not currently exist for aerosols in plastic containers. Recent testing has indicated that
the fire hazard increases when the aerosols are stored in plastic containers. As such, aerosols in plastic
containers cannot follow the same classification scheme (i.e., Levels 1, 2, and 3) as aerosols in metal
containers. Research and testing is ongoing in an effort to develop a classification scheme and corresponding
fire protection criteria for aerosols in plastic containers.
Plastic aerosol product storage fire hazards is also driven by the packaging. In this case, the plastic bottle
will fail quickly when exposed to fire and release the liquid content plus the propellant. Unpressurized, the
plastic bottle and ignitable liquid content produces a known severe fire hazard. The addition of a flammable
propellant to the liquid-bottle combination produces a fire hazard that has not been fully quantified but will at
least be as severe as the ignitable liquid-plastic bottle combination and likely more severe.
Section 2.3 of this data sheet outlines specific instances of where the storage of mixed commodities is
tolerable.
3.3.2 Segregation
Even a single pallet load of a Level 3 aerosol product in a general purpose warehouse (as they are usually
protected) constitutes a potential serious loss. The rocketing cans, regardless of contents, could severely
hamper manual firefighting efforts, and thick, black smoke will quickly obscure visibility.
This data sheet recommends storing Level 2 and 3 aerosol products in cutoff rooms having one-hour fire
resistance, which is in accordance with FM Global basic philosophies of confinement for low flash point
ignitable liquids. In lieu of a cutoff room, FM Global has concluded the provision of a chain link fence enclosure
can be accepted under certain conditions, provided the rack storage is protected with longitudinal flue and
face sprinklers, and ceiling protection is provided.
As described in Section 3.3.1.2, the use of a chain link fence enclosure is not acceptable for palletized or
solid pile Level 3 aerosol products unless quick-response sprinklers are provided at the ceiling. With
standard-response sprinklers, the degree of control is not as pronounced as it is with quick-response ceiling
sprinklers or with in-rack sprinklers. If a chain link fence was used with standard-response ceiling sprinklers,
there would be a greater exposure to the commodities stored beyond the chain link fence. Furthermore, the
heat release from an aerosol product storage fire is significant. If a chain link fence was used with
standard-response ceiling sprinklers, additional sprinklers would be expected to operate and potentially
deplete the water supply. Fire testing demonstrated that an area protected with standard-response sprinklers
produced enough heat to operate sprinklers installed in an area of the test building 50 ft (15 m) away.
4.0 REFERENCES
4.1 FM Global
Data Sheet 1-21, Fire Resistance of Building Assemblies
Data Sheet 2-0, Installation Guidelines for Automatic Sprinklers
Data Sheet 7-29, Ignitable Liquid Storage in Portable Containers
Data Sheet 8-9, Storage of Class 1, 2, 3, 4 and Plastic Commodities
4.2 Others
Green, Don W. and Robert H. Perry, eds. Perry’s Chemical Engineering Handbook. McGraw-Hill. 2008.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Code for Manufacture and Storage of Aerosol Products. NFPA
30B.
Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE). SFPE Handbook of Fire Protection Engineering. 4th edition.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). 2008.
A. Replaced references to “flammable” and “combustible” liquids with “ignitable” liquids throughout the
document.
B. Reorganized the document to provide a consistent format with other data sheets.
C. Removed guidance on the storage of small liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) containers, such as butane
cigarette lighters (0.2 oz [6 ml]).
D. Provided guidance for protecting propane cylinders up to 17 oz (500 ml) [nominal 1 lb (450 g) cylinders].
E. Deleted a recommendation to consider liquids with flash points higher than 500°F (260°C), such as
some vegetable cooking oils, as inert materials when classifying aerosol products. New guidance has been
provided for aerosol cooking spray products.
F. Added information on the storage and fire protection of aerosol products in plastic containers.
G. Updated Table 3, Aerosol Product Storage Location Options, to include new sprinkler terminology,
aerosol cooking spray products and aerosol products in plastic containers.
H. Provided additional details on the proper storage of aerosol products protected using Scheme A.
I. Provided additional details on the appropriate design of cutoff rooms, including roof construction.
J. Added a figure to demonstrate the appropriate design of a “labyrinth” or “tunnel” approach to protect
openings in fenced aerosol product areas.
K. Provided recommendations on the storage of small quantities of aerosol products in FM Approved
ignitable liquid storage cabinets and buildings.
L. Clarified the recommendations related to shipping and receiving areas.
M. Added guidance on the mixing of aerosol products and ignitable liquid storage.
N. Provided additional general information on the design of sprinkler systems, including guidance on
spacing and sprinkler system types.
O. Changed all ceiling sprinkler recommendations to provide a K11.2 (K161) or larger sprinkler in
accordance with the requirements of NFPA 13, Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
P. Renumbered, edited, and reformatted all fire protection recommendations to improve consistency, clarity,
and alignment with the pressure/number of sprinklers approach used in Data Sheet 8-9, Storage of Class
1, 2, 3, 4, and Plastic Commodities.
Q. Clarified fire protection recommendations for mercantile locations.
R. Reorganized Section 3, Support for Recommendations, for improved clarity.
S. The section on fire test data has been consolidated.
January 2012. Terminology related to ignitable liquids has been revised to provide increased clarity and
consistency with regard to FM Global’s loss prevention recommendations for ignitable liquid hazards.
May 2003. Minor editorial changes were made for this revision.
January 2003. The following changes were made for this revision:
1. Added new protection criteria for uncartoned aerosol storage.
2. Added new protection criteria for Suppression Mode sprinklers.
3. Revised all of the protection tables into a consistent format and provided figures for determining in-rack
sprinkler layout.
4. Revised the text to be consistent with the new tables.
5. Eliminated allowance for unrestrained Level 2 aerosol storage to ensure a consistent application of aerosol
protection.
6. Revised protection criteria for aerosol picking racks.
7. Revised protection criteria for aerosol storage in automated storage and retrieval warehouses.
September 2000. This revision of the document has been modified to provide a consistent format.
January 1998. Minor technical revision (uncartoned aerosol information added).
May 1983. Full technical revision.
5 ft. (1.5 m)
8 ft (2.4 m)
Approx.
Approx.
Plan View
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft (4.6 m) Approx
10 ft (3.0 m) Approx
Elevation View
Flue Sprinkler
Fig. 5a. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — single row racks
8 ft (2.4 m)
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Approx.
Approx.
Plan View
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Flue Sprinkler
Elevation View
Fig. 5b. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — double row racks
Loading Aisle
8 ft. (2.4 m)
Approx.
8 ft. (2.4 m)
Approx.
Loading Aisle
Plan View
@ 15 ft (4.6 m) Level
Elevation View
Flue Sprinkler
Face Sprinklers (Aisle View)
NOTE:
Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue Spaces
Provide Face Sprinklers at 15 ft (4.6 m) Vertical Level
Stagger In-Rack Sprinklers Vertically and Horizontally
Fig. 5c. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — multiple row racks
4 - 5 ft.
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
Deflector Clearance Minimum of 6 in. (15 NOTE: Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Fig. 6a. Cartoned Level 3 aerosol products — single row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage
in quick-response sprinkler protected building
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Approx.
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
(typical tier)
NOTE:
Deflector Clearance Minimum of 6 in. (15 Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue
Spaces
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Elevation View
Flue Sprinkler
Fig. 6b. Cartoned Level 3 aerosol products — double row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage
in quick-response sprinkler protected building
5 ft. (1.5 m)
8 ft (2.4 m)
Approx.
Approx.
Plan View
NOTE:
Deflector Clearance Minimum of 6 in. (15 cm) In-Rack Sprinklers must be Staggered Vertically
Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue Spaces
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
8 ft (2.4 m)
Approx.
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Approx.
8 ft (2.4 m)
Approx.
Plan View
(typical tier)
NOTE:
All In-Rack Sprinklers Must be Staggered Vertically
Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue Spaces Deflector Clearance Minimum of 6 in. (15 cm)
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Face Sprinkler
Flue Sprinkler
Elevation View
(Typical Tier)
5 ft. (1.5 m)
8 ft (2.4 m)
Approx.
Approx.
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Fig. 8a. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, clearance more than 15 ft (4.6 m) — single row racks
8 ft (2.4 m)
Approx.
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Approx.
8 ft (2.4 m)
Approx.
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Fig. 8b. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, clearance more than 15 ft (4.6 m) — double row racks
Fig. 8c. Cartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products, clearance more than 15 ft (4.6 m) — multiple row racks
4 - 5 ft.
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Fig. 9a. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — single row racks up to 20 ft (6.1 m) high storage
8 -10 ft.
(2.4 - 3 m)
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Approx.
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
(typical tier)
NOTE:
Face Sprinklers Are NOT Staggered Vertically
Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue Spaces
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Fig. 9b. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — double row racks up to 20 ft (6.1 m) high storage
8 - 10 ft.
Loading Aisle
(2.4 - 3 m)
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
4 - 5 ft.
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Loading Aisle
Plan View
Flue Sprinkler (Typical Tier)
Face Sprinklers
NOTE:
Face Sprinklers Are NOT Staggered Vertically
Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue Spaces
Elevation View
Flue Sprinkler
Face Sprinklers
Fig. 9c. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — multiple row racks up to 20 ft (6.1 m) high storage
4 - 5 ft.
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
Deflector Clearance Minimum of 6 in. (15 cm) NOTE: Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue Spaces
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Fig. 10a. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — single row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage
8 -10 ft.
(2.4 - 3 m)
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Approx.
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
(typical tier)
NOTE:
Face Sprinklers Must be Staggered Vertically
Deflector Clearance Minimum of 6 in. (15 cm) Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue
Spaces
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Elevation View
Face Sprinkler
Flue Sprinkler
Fig. 10b. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol products — double row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage
8 - 10 ft.
(2.4 - 3 m)
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
4 - 5 ft.
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
(Typical Tier)
Flue Sprinkler
Face Sprinklers NOTE:
Face Sprinklers Must be Staggered Vertically
Line-up In-Rack Sprinklers with Transverse Flue Spaces
5 ft. (1.5 m)
Approx.
15 ft. (4.6 m) Approx.
Elevation View
Flue Sprinkler
Face Sprinklers
Fig. 10c. Uncartoned Level 2 and 3 aerosol product — multiple row racks up to 25 ft (7.6 m) high storage
Solid Barrier
5 ft. (1.4 m)
Maximum
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
12 ft. (3.7 m)
12 ft. (3.7 m)
Fig. 11a. Single row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A
Solid Barrier
5 ft. (1.4 m)
Maximum
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
12 ft. (3.7 m)
12 ft. (3.7 m)
Fig. 11b. Single row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A
Solid Barrier
(no gap at longitudinal flue)
8 -10 ft.
(2.4 - 3 m)
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Maximum
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
12 ft. (3.7 m)
12 ft. (3.7 m)
Fig. 11c. Double row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A
Solid Barrier
(no gap at flue)
4 - 5 ft.
(1.2 - 1.5 m)
Plan View
Deflector a Minimum of 6 in. (15 cm)
Deflector a Maximum of 7 in. (23 cm) Below Barrier Above Top of Storage
12 ft. (3.7 m)
Fig. 11d. Multiple row rack in-rack sprinkler layout — Fire Protection Scheme A
Solid barrier
(no gap at longitudinal flue)
8-10ft.
(2.4-3m)
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Maximum
4-5ft.
(1.2-1.5m)
= Non-aerosols
storage
= Longitudinal flue
Plan View - Display Area sprinkler
Note 1: Provide in-rack automatic sprinklers as necessary for the non-aerosols storage. = Face sprinkler
Maximum
10 ft (3m)
Maximum
8 ft (2.4m)
Customized
shelving/racks
Elevation View
Solid barrier
(no gap at longitudinal flue)
8-10ft.
(2.4-3m)
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Maximum
4-5ft.
(1.2-1.5m)
= Non-aerosols
storage
= Longitudinal flue
sprinkler
Plan View - Display Area = Face sprinkler
Note 1: Provide in-rack automatic sprinklers as necessary for the non-aerosols storage.
Maximum
10 ft (3m)
Maximum
8 ft (2.4m)
Customized
shelving/racks
Elevation View
Solid barrier
(no gap at longitudinal flue)
8-10ft.
(2.4-3m)
9 ft. (2.7 m)
Maximum
4-5ft.
(1.2-1.5m)
= Aerosols removed
from their
combustible
packaging
= Aerosols storage
= Non-aerosols
storage
= Solid vertical
barrier
Maximum
10 ft (3m)
Maximum
8 ft (2.4m)
Customized
shelving/racks
Elevation View