General Storage & Housekeeping

One of the primary causes of workplace fires is haphazard storage and poor housekeeping practices. Combustible materials should never be stored or used in close proximity to ignition sources, and should never be placed in exit paths or corridors.

Storage should:

1. be on secure and sound shelving or in separate storage rooms.
2. never stacked within two feet of ceilings.
3. never obstruct fire sprinklers – must be at least 18” away.
4. not be stored in exit corridors or exit enclosures.
5. not be stored in boiler rooms, mechanical rooms or electrical equipment rooms.
6. not be stored in attics, in under floor spaces, or in concealed spaces unless such areas are protected by one (1) hour fire resistive construction or fire sprinkler system.
7. not be placed where they may contribute to the spread of fire or toxic smoke within a room, space, or area.

All work spaces should be kept orderly and free from excessive combustible waste materials.