How many flammable storage cabinets are permitted in a facility?

OSHA allows up to three flammable storage cabinets, each holding up to 60 gallons, in any one “fire area” in a facility. A “fire area” is a section of a facility separated from other sections by fire-resistant walls and has fire-resistant doors at each opening.

OSHA expects that all flammable liquids as defined in 1910.106(a)(19) be kept in a flammable storage cabinet, inside storage room, or flammable storage warehouse per 1910.106(d).

However, there is an exemption under 1910.106(e)(2)(i) for incidental storage which allows employers to store up to 25 gallons of Category 1 and 120 gallons of Categories 2, 3, and 4 in containers in any one “fire area” of the facility outside a flammable storage cabinet or storage room.

Also, local or state fire code may dictate storage requirements; therefore, contact local fire authorities as they generally know what OSHA requires as well as local and state fire code and will be the best source of information regarding storage.

Also, an employer’s liability insurance carrier may require or restrict the storage of flammable materials, which may affect insurance rates.