Regulations are NOT just from the D.O.T.
 
GENERAL INFORMATION

1.    What is a "Chemical Storage Building" anyway?
 
Well, the answer is very straightforward and can be found on the EPA.gov web site. Sometimes when you are trying to become compliant, it's best to know the facts straight from the source. The EPA is very specific: [165.85(a)]
2.    What is a "SUMP" or Secondary Containment in a Building?
 
The definition of a “sump” (noun) is a pit or reservoir serving as a drain or receptacle for liquids; a pit at the lowest point in a circulating drainage system.   Basically, what the risk management industry calls a “sump” in the case of a chemical storage building is a 6-7” deep well in the bottom of the prefabricated steel building which is continuously welded to be “leak-proof”. This sump is then covered by a steel or fiberglass floor grating and is often equipped with a “sump liner” of a plastic nature to catch accidental spills.
 
3.    Is there documentation available so I don’t have to read the code books?


Yes. Click this link for the PDF Document downloaded from the EPA.gov web site.



  See Table 7


EPA suggests that you should refer to the final regulatory text (71 FR 47330-47437; August 16, 2006) for the full version.



4.  Who is Factory Mutual (FM Global) and why does their Approval matter in my state?


FM’s understanding of property loss prevention is unmatched. FM Global scientists and engineers work to advance loss prevention practices and establish new industry standards through state-of-the-art research and testing. Our client service teams share this knowledge with clients to help them make confident, well-informed decisions about how to reduce risk and exposure and prevent potential business interruption. You should always look for the FM logo, not just for your chemical storage needs, but on a wide array of equipment. FM researchers formulate “standards” based on Both UL Listed designs as well as others. An approval from FM means that your product meets or exceeds the design standards set forth by the for loss prevention.

See the downloads below for more information about FM Global, their approval mark, and their standards:
 
  1.   Containment structures must be constructed of steel, reinforced concrete or other rigid material capable of withstanding the full hydrostatic head and load placed on the structure and must be compatible with the pesticides stored.

  2.   The Structure must be liquid tight with cracks, seams and joints sealed.

  3.   Natural earthen material, unfired clay and asphalt are prohibited.

  4.   Existing Structures: An existing containment structure is a structure for which installation began on or before November 16, 2006. [165.83(b)]

  5.   New Structure: A new containment structure is a structure for which installation began after November 16, 2006 if certain conditions regarding permits, construction and contracts are met. [165.83(a)]

  6.   “WITHIN THREE (3) YEARS (BY AUGUST 16, 2009) ALL CONTAINMENT STRUCTURES MUST COMPLY WITH THE SPECIFIC STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO THEM.” ~ EPA
TURFloc™ model non-flammable storage building is the #1 choice by commercial applicators of large volumes of pesticides, herbicides and fungicides. For the most part, these “Ag” chemicals are not flammable, so “explosion proof” configurations are often overkill for the typical resort or turf professional. Most TURFloc™ storage containers have a very common design; a dust ignition proof light fixture, a mechanical ventilation system, shelving, sump liner and an electrical load center (breaker box to provide poser to the unit). HVAC options as well as personal safety (combo shower/eyewash, etc.) are recommended, but not required. 
While many people choose to put their TURFloc™ storage buildings on alternate “footers” the manufacturer recommends a concrete foundation. It is very important that the TURFloc™ be anchored down by the welded “tie down” brackets on the corner of each building. This will give the TURFloc™ maximum protection from powerful hurricane force winds and harsh snow loads. The unique advantage of a pre-fabricated TURFloc™ storage building is that is can be either: 

(1) temporary (relocatable by the fork lift pockets under the unit); or, 

(2) permanent (this is a functional choice made by the end user based upon local building code requirements).

All TURFloc™ storage buildings are designed to meet International Building Code (IBC) as well as state and local building and fire codes for easy permitting. 

If you need a fire-rated building, please visit:  http://uschemicalstorage.com