![]() ![]() The IBC further categorizes High Hazard (Group H) occupancies into one of five subgroups. Group S: Moderate and Low-Hazard Storage.Typical occupancy classifications in the manufacturing and industrial sectors include: Operations must conform to the requirements and restrictions imposed by this classification for the facility’s lifetime, which is particularly important as the type and quantity of hazardous materials in use changes over time. In general, the occupancy classification is set at the time of construction or initial occupancy of a building. This designation is fundamental in establishing the features of construction, occupant safety requirements, building height and size limitations, means of egress, fire protection systems, and allowable interior finishes. The IBC and IFC utilize occupancy classification to provide rationale criteria to match a building’s use and occupancy with the features required to address fire hazard and life safety considerations. Overview of the occupancy classification process This article describes a three-step process to help ensure accurate occupancy classification. With increasing regulatory focus on combustible dust, manufacturers will need to understand the methods used for occupancy classification involving dust hazards. #Mac tools industrial hand cleaner sds code#Recent updates to the code requirements have affected occupancy classification based on the use of combustible dust. These codes rely on the accurate determination of high-hazard, or Group H, occupancy designation to ensure proper building features are provided for occupant and facility safety. ![]() Since these codes are generally adopted by local and state governments, the model codes serve as legal requirements. The intent is to set minimum requirements to ensure occupant and emergency responder safety and protect surrounding property ( e.g., minimize the spread of a fire). The model building codes in the U.S., most commonly the International Code Council Series, establish strict requirements for the use of hazardous materials through the occupancy classification process. Occupancy classification can present significant operational issues when an existing facility plans to increase or change the type or quantity of hazardous materials being used, including the use and storage of combustible dust. One of the most overlooked and misunderstood requirements is how hazardous material utilization affects the International Building Code (IBC) (1) and International Fire Code (IFC) (2) occupancy classification of a facility and determines the allowable design and layout features of the structure. The use and storage of hazardous materials within a structure can subject process operations to many regulatory and permitting requirements. Hazardous material use and storage inside any structure affects its building and fire code occupancy classification, which dictates its allowable design and layout features. ![]()
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