United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA 4844
10019962
Office of
Administration and
Resources Management (2304)
EPA Manual 4844
April 1996
Facility Safety, Health
and Environmental
Management Manual
U.S. EPA Headquarters Library
Mail code 3201
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington DC 20460
EPA
100/
1996.2
U.S. EPA Headquarters Library
Mail code 3201
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington DC 20460
Printed on Recycled Paper
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MANUAL 4/96
CONTENTS OF CHAPTERS
CHAPTER CHAPTER
TITLES NUMBERS
1 AUTHORITY, POLICY AND RESPONSIBILITY 1
2 BASIC FIRE SAFETY STANDARDS 2
3 SPECIFIC FIRE SAFETY CRITERIA ' . . . 3
4^ INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION AND ARRANGEMENT 4
5 MECHANICAL SYSTEMS 5
6 ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS 6
7 MISCELLANEOUS OCCUPANCY FEATURES . . 7
8 ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 8
APPENDICES
APPENDIX A - LIST OF STANDARDS AND REFERENCES
APPENDIX B - GLOSSARY
APPENDIX C - ROOM DATA SHEETS
APPENDIX D - LIST OF STATE ENVIRONMENTAL CONTACTS
APPENDIX E - LIST OF CLASS I AND CLASS II (OZONE-DEPLETING) SUBSTANCES
APPENDIX F - LIST OF ACRONYMS
APPENDIX G - MEMORANDUMS
U.S. EPA Headquarters Library
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Washington DC 20460
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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CHAPTER 1 - AUTHORITY. POLICY AND RESPONSIBILITY
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH PARAGRAPH
TITLES NUMBERS
Purpose 1
Overview 2
Scope . ' 3
Authority 4
References 5
Policy 6
Objectives 7
Responsibilities 8
Requirements 9
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CHAPTER 1 - AUTHORITY. POLICY AND RESPONSIBILITY
1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this Manual is to detail safety, health, and
environmental management considerations for facilities that are owned, leased,
or occupied by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
2. OVERVIEW
The considerations or criteria in this Manual describe the full scope of
the facility features required in EPA-occupied facilities to maintain a safe
and healthful workplace, and may exceed local codes or federal standards,
which generally describe minimum requirements necessary to protect against
injury, illness, and loss of life.
3. SCOPE
The facility safety, health and environmental management criteria
described in this Manual apply to facilities owned or leased by EPA, and
facilities assigned to EPA by the General Services Administration (GSA) or
other government agencies. In this Manual, owned and leased facilities shall
be referred to as "EPA facilities." The criteria in this Manual are mandatory
for new construction or new leased space. Where it does not appear to be
feasible to meet these criteria at existing facilities, consult the
Architecture, Engineering and Real Estate Branch (AEREB) for advice or a
waiver. Under special circumstances a waiver may be granted by the Safety,
Health and Environmental Management Division (SHEMD).
4. AUTHORITY
Authority for the criteria set forth in this Manual is based on the
latest approved editions of the following:
a. Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970
b. 29 CFR 1910, General Industry Standards
c. GSA, Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service (PBS-
PQ100.1)
d. EPA manuals, executive orders, Agency orders and SHEMD program
requirements
e. State and local building codes based on one of the model building
codes, such as the Building Officials and Code Administrators
International, Inc.(BOCA), Uniform Building Code (UBC) and
Standard Building Code of the Southern Building Code Congress
International (SBCCI)
f. Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS).
U.S. EPA Headquarters Library
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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b. Prevent fire exposure, public health hazards, and environmental
damage to the community that surrounds EPA facilities
c. Prevent loss of government real and personal property
d. Prevent interruption of government operations
e. Promote the health, well being and productivity of occupants
f. Ensure that EPA facilities sustain compliance with applicable
environmental regulatory standards to preserve environmental
quality
g. Promote successful integration of environmental requirements into
facility design processes to prevent pollution and support EPA's
goal of environmental stewardship.
8. RESPONSIBILITIES
The following describes the responsibilities assigned to divisions or
departments within EPA for enforcing the criteria set forth in this Manual.
a. AEREB is responsible for ensuring that the design and construction
of EPA facilities complies with local codes as well as the
criteria described herein.
b. AEREB and SHEMD are jointly responsible for ensuring that EPA
facilities provide safe, healthful, and environmentally sound work
spaces for EPA personnel.
c. AEREB and SHEMD are jointly responsible for reviewing and
approving requests for a waiver for variances or exceptions to the
criteria set forth in this Manual when appropriate. The following
criteria apply to requests for variances:
Requests for variances to the criteria described in this
Manual must be submitted in writing to AEREB and SHEMD for
review
Documentation of variances that have been granted must be
maintained by the facility as long as applicable.
d. AEREB and SHEMD are jointly responsible for updating this Manual
as necessary to reflect changes in technology and recognized
standard practices in safety, health, and environmental management
relative to EPA facilities.
9. REQUIREMENTS
To meet the policy and objectives set forth above:
a. AEREB, with SHEMD's assistance, will review the criteria set forth
in Programs of Requirements (POR) and Solicitations for Offers
(SFO) for new EPA facilities, and for modifications to existing
facilities, prior to awarding a design contract
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CHAPTER 2 - BASIC FIRE SAFETY STANDARDS
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH PARAGRAPH
TITLES NUMBERS
Purpose 1
References 2
Fire-Resistance Ratings 3
Types of Construction 4
Fire Walls and Fire Barrier Walls 5
Vertical Openings and Shafts 6
Panel, Curtain, and Spandrel Walls 7
Ceilings 8
Fire-Stopping 9
Fire Doors 10
Utilities 11
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CHAPTER 2 - BASIC FIRE SAFETY STANDARDS
1. PURPOSE
This chapter provides the basic structural fire safety criteria for fire
walls, doors and partitions, shafts, ceilings, and utilities.
2 . REFERENCES
Unless otherwise specified herein, all building materials and structural
components and assemblies shall conform to the applicable requirements of the
following American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) test methods and
the NFPA Standards:
a. Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Building Construction and
Materials (ASTM E 119/NFPA 251)
b. Standard on Types of Building Construction (NFPA 220)
c. Standard for Fire Walls and Fire Barriers (NFPA 221)
d. Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA 13)
e. Fire Doors and Windows (NFPA 80)
f. Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Door Assemblies (ASTM E 152/NFPA
252) .
3. FIRE-RESISTANCE RATINGS
The fire-resistance hourly ratings shall be determined in accordance
with ASTM E 119/NFPA 251. Floor-ceiling assemblies shall be in accordance
with paragraph 8 of this chapter. The hourly ratings for various materials
and designs shall be obtained either by actual fire testing or by conformance
to designs listed by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., or Factory Mutual.
4. TYPES OF CONSTRUCTION
The various types of construction are defined in NFPA 220 and the model
building codes (see Chapter 1, Authority, Policy, and Responsibility,
paragraph 4.e for a list of the model building codes). The construction
classifications using both the NFPA and local building code methods shall be
indicated on design documents as applicable. Identification of construction
classifications is required in order to implement both the local building code
criteria as well as the EPA, GSA, and NFPA standards criteria. The type of
construction shall be selected based upon the classification of the occupancy
(e.g., NFPA 101, chapter 4), as well as the height and area of the building.
5. FIRE WALLS AND FIRE BARRIER WALLS
Fire walls shall be used as dictated by the local building codes. Fire
walls must be structurally independent and have sufficient structural
stability under fire conditions to allow collapse of construction on either
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be separately enclosed from the atrium. Access to exits is
permitted to be within the atrium space.
b. Shafts. When telephone rooms, electrical closets, and similar
spaces are located one above the other, the enclosure walls are
considered to form a shaft, and protection shall be provided in
accordance with the requirements of NFPA 101 and the local
building code. Shafts shall not be installed between a structural
member and the fireproofing for the member. If allowed by the
local building code, all floor penetrations within telephone and
electric closets can be sealed or otherwise grouted in lieu of
creating a shaft to maintain the fire resistance of the floor
assembly.
Structural members passing through a shaft shall be fireproofed
separately from the shaft enclosure such that the entire
structural member is protected as required by the model building
codes. The fireproofing shall be of concrete, plaster, or other
hard material that is resistant to mechanical damage and not
subject to rusting or corrosion.
c. Monumental stairs. Large, open stairs shall be protected by one
of three methods. If the stairs are not involved in the building
exit requirements, they may extend one floor above and one floor
below the main entrance lobby, provided that fire partitions and
self-closing fire doors are installed at the upper and lower
levels. Alternatively, they may be protected as a vertical
opening as per the requirements of chapter 6 of NFPA 101. If the
stairs are part of the exit system, they must be protected as
outlined in chapter 5 of NFPA 101.
d. Escalators. Escalators shall be treated in the same manner as
monumental stairs with an additional option to provide curtain
boards and sprinkler protection as detailed in NFPA 13.
e. Penetrations. Openings around penetrations in vertical openings
and shafts shall be fire-stopped as described in this chapter.
7. PANEL. CURTAIN AND SPANDREL WALLS
Openings between panel, curtain, and spandrel walls, and the building
structure or floor slabs around them, shall be fire-stopped in accordance with
provisions outlined in this chapter.
a. Panel and Curtain Walls. All panel and curtain walls shall
conform to the requirements for non-bearing walls in the type of
construction and model code involved and shall be securely
anchored to the building in a manner which will prevent failure of
the anchors in a fire.
b. Windows. Wherever windows extend to within 36 inches from the
floor and the space is at least four feet above grade, a suitable
metal barrier shall be provided on the interior window opening
approximately 42 inches above floor level. If the glass
construction can withstand a horizontal force of 200 pounds or
more and meet the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.23, 16 CFR 1201, and
the local building code, no barriers are required. (NOTE:
Perimeter heating and cooling units may form this barrier.) For
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a 1.5-hour fire protection rating which are used in locations with severe fire
exposure potential (such as a flammable liquids storage room). The maximum
area of glazing in a 1- or 1.5-hour door shall be 100 square inches (0.065
square meters) unless the area has been tested and meets the requirements of
NFPA 80. The area of glazing in fire doors having less than one-hour fire-
resistance ratings shall be limited to the maximum area tested. All glazing
shall be wired glass or other approved glass for use in fire doors.
Fire doors involved in exits or means of egress shall also conform to
the requirements contained in Chapter 4, Interior Construction and
Arrangements, paragraph 6. Fire doors involved in air-handling systems shall
also conform to the requirements outlined in Chapter 5, Mechanical Systems,
paragraph 8.
11. UTILITIES
Pipes, wires, cables, ducts, or other utilities or services shall not be
embedded in or between the required fireproofing and structural members unless
the assembly has been tested and has achieved the required fire resistance.
(See paragraph 9 of this chapter for requirements relating to penetration of
utilities through fire-resistive assemblies.)
One-inch or smaller steel conduit with wiring to clocks, receptacles,
telephones, thermostats, or switches may be embedded in the fireproofing if
the necessary thickness of fireproofing is not reduced. In such cases,
electrical boxes shall be steel, limited to 4-inch nominal size, securely
anchored in place, and at least two feet apart or on opposite sides of the
structural member.
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CHAPTER 3 - SPECIFIC FIRE SAFETY CRITERIA
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH PARAGRAPH
TITLES NUMBERS
Purpose 1
Classification of Occupancies 2
Automatic Sprinkler-Protected Occupancies 3
Open Plan Office Space - 4
Types of Construction - 5
Height and Area Limitations 6
Attachments and Additions 7
Fire Exposure Protection 8
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CHAPTER 3 - SPECIFIC FIRE SAFETY CRITERIA
1. PURPOSE
This chapter describes specific safety criteria for various groups of
occupancies, open plan office space and building attachments.
2. CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPANCIES
Occupancies are classified by a number of methods depending on the code
or standard used and the purpose of the classification. Methods of
classification are included in chapter 4 of NFPA 101, chapter 2 of NFPA 45,
chapter 1 of NFPA 13, other NFPA codes and standards which may apply to
specific situations, and local building and fire prevention codes. These
classifications are used in the application of the respective codes and
standards and should not be translated to other codes or standards unless
directed. For example, Class B laboratory as defined in NFPA 45 has no
meaning in NFPA 101; however, NFPA 45 specifies that sprinklers in Class B
laboratories should be treated as an Ordinary Hazardous Group 2, which is
defined by NFPA 13. The basis of these classifications varies with each code
or standard. Some of the methods of classification are listed below.
a. NFPA 101 classification is based on use of the building or area
considered. Examples include business, assembly and industrial
occupancies.
b. Model building code classification is based on use of the building
or area considered. Examples include Use Group B (Business), S-l
(Moderate Hazard Storage), .and F (Factory and Industrial) as
defined by the BOCA National Building Code.
c. NFPA 13 classification is based on the fire hazard of the use of
building or area to be protected by sprinklers. Examples include
Light Hazard and Ordinary Hazard Group 2.
d. NFPA 45 classification is based on the amount of flammable liquids
per floor area present in a laboratory unit. Example include
Class A, Class B and Class C.
e. NFPA 231 classification is based on the type of materials stored
and their burning characteristics.
GSA also has one special occupancy classification referred to as high
severity occupancies, which include storage areas larger than 1,000 square
feet with racks or shelves taller than 12 feet, libraries with stacks taller
than nine feet, and record or archive centers with open file shelves. The
special design considerations outlined in PBS PQ100.1 must be followed for
these occupancies. Further details regarding classification of occupancy can
be found in the standards referenced above.
Each code or standard must use the classification designations contained
in that code or standard. For example, a Class B laboratory as defined by
NFPA 45 may be either Use Group B (business) or H (high hazard) as defined by
the BOCA National Building Code, but could be either industrial or high hazard
as defined by NFPA 101. The classification pf laboratory space by the three
codes would differ. Therefore, the applicable codes and standards with their
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Interior Construction and Arrangement, paragraph 7 of this Manual. Where more
than one group classification of occupancy is housed, the higher group
classification shall govern for determining area limitations in accordance
with the local building code.
7. ATTACHMENTS AND ADDITIONS
Cornices, marquees, and skylights shall be of noncombustible
construction. Attachments and additions for the purpose of providing
additional space shall conform to the same construction height and area
limitations as the base building.
8. FIRE EXPOSURE PROTECTION
A fire exposure is any building, structure, yard storage, or industrial
operation containing combustible substances which, if involved in a fire,
would present a danger to the building being evaluated. Classification of
exposure severity and determination of minimum separation distance shall be in
accordance with NFPA 80A, Recommended Practices for Protection of Buildings
from Exterior Fire Exposures and the local building code. Requirements for
explosion venting should comply with chapter 5 of NFPA 45 (for laboratories),
NFPA 68, and the local building code, whichever is more stringent. The
methods for determining the more stringent requirements shall be documented in
the project submittals.
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CHAPTER 4 - INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION AND ARRANGEMENT
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH
TITLES
PARAGRAPH
NUMBERS
Purpose
References
Interior Construction
Flooring
Partitions
Exit Facilities . . .
Hazard Segregation
Day Care Facilities .
Safety of Disabled
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
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CHAPTER 4 - INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION AND ARRANGEMENT
1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this chapter is to provide the safety requirements for
interior construction (e.g., interior finish, floors, ceilings, partitions,
facility attributes, and exits).
2. REFERENCES
All interior construction and arrangements shall conform to the
applicable requirements of the following codes and standards and the criteria
set forth in this chapter:
a. Fire Doors and Windows (NFPA 80)
b. Life Safety Code (NFPA 101)
c. Standard Method of Fire Tests for Flame Resistant Textiles and
Films (NFPA 701)
d. Local building codes
e. Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS)
f. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990
g. Providing Accessibility and Usability for Physically Handicapped
People (ANSI A117.1)
h. Facilities Standards for the Public Building Service (GSA PBS-
PQ100.1)
i. Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a
Radiant Heat Source (NFPA 253).
3. INTERIOR CONSTRUCTION
Interior finish shall be in accordance with NFPA 101, chapter 6. The
fire safety characteristics of interior finish shall include a flame spread
rating not to exceed 25. and a smoke development rating not to exceed 50. In
fully sprinkler-protected buildings, the interior finish in areas not involved
in the means of egress of the building may be of materials having a flame
spread rating of 200 or less and a smoke development rating of 200 or less.
In sprinkler-protected exit accesses or passageways, the interior finish may
be composed of materials having a flame spread rating of 75 or less and a
smoke development rating of 100 or less. (See NFPA 101 and PBS PQ100.1 as the
source for this requirement.)
a. Lead Paint. Lead-based paints (LBPs) shall not be used in EPA
facilities. (See Chapter 8, Environmental Management, paragraph
3.g for lead in water.)
(1) When the scope of a construction activity requires sanding,
burning, welding, or scraping painted surfaces, the paint
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Place, A Building Owner's Guide to Operations and
Maintenance Programs for Asbestos-Containing Materials and
criteria contained in 29 CFR 1926.58.
(4) Ensure that a pre-alteration asbestos assessment is
performed, supplementing available information as
appropriate, for any activity that may disturb any ACM.
Conduct the asbestos assessment in accordance with the
guidelines and requirements mentioned above. (See
Chapter 8, Environmental Management, paragraph 2, for
additional information regarding removal of ACM).
d. Trim and Incidental Finishes. Interior wall and ceiling finish
not in excess of 10 percent of the aggregate wall and ceiling area
involved shall be permitted to be Class C materials in accordance
with NFPA 101, chapter 6.
e. Final Finishing Material. Wallpaper, paint, veneer, and other
thin finishing materials applied directly to the surface of walls
and ceilings and not over 0.035-inch (1/28-inch) thick shall not
be considered as an interior finish as per NFPA 101, chapter 6.
f. Airspace. Whenever an airspace is located behind combustible
material, the space shall be blocked so that no void extends more
than 10 feet in any direction. For example, wood paneling applied
to wood furring strips will meet the requirement if the distance
between the furring strips is no more than 10 feet in both a
horizontal and vertical direction.
g. Combustible Substances. Materials composed of basically
combustible substances (e.g., wood, fiberboard) that have been
treated with fire-retardant chemicals throughout the material, as
opposed to surface treatment (e.g., pressure impregnation), may be
used as interior finish subject to the following conditions:
(1) the treated material shall be installed in full accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions, and (2) the treated material
shall not be installed in any location where conditions exist that
may reduce the effectiveness of the fire-retardant treatment
(e.g., high humidity). Surface treatments shall be permitted to
reduce the risks associated with existing conditions in accordance
with chapter 6 of NFPA 101.
h. Restrictions. No material shall be used as an interior finish
which will result in higher flame spread or smoke development
ratings than those permitted herein.
i. Flooring Materials. Interior -floor finishes shall be in
accordance with chapter 6 of NFPA 101 and tested in accordance
with NFPA 253 » Flooring materials used as wall sections or wall
coverings shall comply with the fire safety characteristics
described in paragraph 3 for flame spread and smoke development.
The flame spread and smoke development characteristics shall be
determined through testing in the orientation in which the
material is to be installed (NFPA 253 results shall not be used to
evaluate flooring tested in the vertical position).
j. Draperies and Curtains. All draperies, curtains, and similar
hanging materials shall be of a noncombustible or flame-resistant
fabric (chemically treated). Flame-resistant means that the
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6. EXIT FACILITIES
Except as noted below or covered elsewhere in this Manual, the
provisions of NFPA 101 shall be followed.
a. Number of Exits. At least two separate exits shall be available
on every floor. Exits shall be as far away from each other as
possible and shall be arranged to minimize the possibility that
both may be blocked during an emergency.
b. Emergency Eoress. Emergency egress from the building shall be
maintained whenever the building is occupied.
c. Exit stairs. 'All exit stairs in new construction, and all exit
stairs added to existing buildings, shall conform to the
requirements for Class A stairs described in NFPA 101, and shall
have a minimum width of 44 inches.
d. Exit Merging. In any instance where the arrangement of stairs is
such that persons exiting from upper floors may be required to
merge with persons exiting from lower floors through a common
stair exit doorway, the total width of the doorway shall be at
least equal to three-fourths of the width of stairs from above,
plus three-fourths of the width of the stairs from below.
e. Exit Doors. All exit stair doors and all other doors opening onto
exit routes, except those opening directly to the outside, shall
be self-closing or shall be the kind that are controlled by a
smoke detector. Doors shall be located or recessed in a manner to
ensure that they do not swing to impede pedestrian flow in
corridors or other egress routes. In new laboratories and where
required by NFPA 101, 45 or other codes or standards, exit and
exit access doors shall swing in the direction of egress. Vision
panels, in accordance with NFPA 80, should always be provided in
stairway and horizontal exit doors and where necessary to
alleviate potential personnel traffic hazards.
f. Distance Between Exits. Where two exits or exit access doors are
required, they shall be as far away from each other as possible in
accordance with the local building code or NFPA 101. The more
stringent requirement shall be met.
g. Latches. Latches on stair doors shall be operable from both the
stairs and the occupied space side of the stairs. For security
reasons, ingress may be prohibited without impeding emergency
egress as follows:
(1) Door may open directly to the exterior
(2) Door may open from a stair to an exit discharge route
(3) An individual stair door may be locked against ingress from
the stair when fully justified in writing, and where no
other reasonable means can be developed to provide necessary
security.
In no instance shall doors at the top and bottom stair levels be
secured. Each secured door shall be clearly marked. Directions
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1. Panic Hardware. Panic hardware may be used anywhere, but it must
be used for all exterior, exit doors and interior-latched exit
doors from classrooms, theaters, and other places of assembly
having a capacity in excess of 100 people.
m. Smoke-Proof Towers. Smoke-proof towers conforming with the
requirements of NFPA 101 are acceptable, but not required unless
required by the local building code.
n. Timed Exit Calculation. Egress from buildings or an area of
refuge shall be in accordance with timed calculations. Personnel
in the fire area can travel toward the fire for no more than 15
seconds. They should be able to relocate from the fire area
within 90 seconds. Unimpeded horizontal movement is calculated at
3.5 feet per second. It should be no longer than eight minutes
for individuals to exit downward to the outside of the building.
o. Fire Subdivisions. Fire subdivisions may be developed to improve
life-safety conditions where complete correction of existing stair
and exit deficiencies is not feasible. Fire subdivision may be
used to develop horizontal exits where large numbers of
handicapped occupants must be provided with safe exit facilities.
Fire subdivisions may be used in conjunction with a smoke-control
system. Unless greater fire resistance is required for other
purposes, fire barrier walls installed to improve existing exit
facilities or for smoke control shall be of one-hour fire-
resistive construction. Other uses of fire barrier walls that may
require a greater fire resistance rating include horizontal exits
and areas of refuge.
p. Fire Escape. Fire escape stairs, as defined in NFPA 101, are not
acceptable as a component in the means of egress.
q. Limited Access Areas. Areas with limited or no ventilation (such
as conditioned sample storage rooms) shall be evaluated to ensure
the reliability of the exits. If blocking a single exit presents
the potential of creating a hazardous atmosphere, provisions
should be made to either prevent the exit from being blocked,
provide a means of communication from inside the space, provide
adequate ventilation or otherwise prevent the space from becoming
the equivalent to a confined space as defined by 29 CFR 1910.146.
7. HAZARD SEGREGATION
In general, occupancies posing different levels of risk shall be
separated by fire-resistive construction. Areas shall be segregated as noted
below and as required by local building codes and NFPA 101.
a. Parking Structures. The construction, protection, and control of
hazards in parking structures shall comply with the requirements
of NFPA 88A. Parking garages located within buildings containing
other occupancies shall be separated from the remainder of the
building by construction having a fire resistance of at least two
hours. Entrances between garages and elevators shall be protected
by a vestibule having 1-1/2-hour, Class B or higher-classed fire
door. Doorways between garages and stairs, building corridors, or
other non-garage areas shall be protected by 1-1/2-hour, Class B
or higher-classed fire doors. The garage ventilation system must
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(3) The exhaust should be taken from within 12 inches of the
floor on the opposite wall of the room from the make-up air
(4) The flammable liquids storage room exhaust must not be
vented into a fume hood or its associated exhaust system
(5) If ducts are used for the ventilation system, they shall
comply with NFPA 91.
If a room is used for mixed waste chemical storage, proper
segregation shall be provided to prevent mixing of incompatible
chemicals. This shall include, but not be limited to, diking
provisions between incompatible storage areas.
g. Blind Stands and Self-Service. Blind stands and self-service
stores shall be separated from the remainder of the building by
one-hour fire-rated enclosures and doors. If the entire floor is
protected by automatic sprinklers, fire-rated enclosures are not
needed.
8. DAY CARE FACILITIES
Day care centers must comply with NFPA 101, Life Safety Code, as well as
EPA's guidelines, GSA's Child Care Center Design Guide (PBS-PQ140), and local
jurisdiction licensing requirements. Minimum requirements are described
below.
a. Day care centers must be located along a grade-level exit
discharge and along an outside wall with operable windows. A door
leading directly outside from a day care center is preferred.
b. All toys, articles of furniture, equipment for play, amusement,
education, physical fitness, and other products used for care of
children shall have non-toxic paints or coverings. Additionally,
potable water distribution systems shall be tested to ensure that
excessive levels of lead do not exist. (See Chapter 8,
Environmental Management, paragraph 3 of this Manual for
requirements for drinking water.)
c. The day care center shall not be located in an area with asbestos-
containing materials, lead-based paints or polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs). Paint and similar surface coating materials
that contain mercury, asbestos, lead or lead compounds are
prohibited.
d. The day care center must be separated from the rest of the
building by at least one-hour fire-resistive construction with 45-
minute fire doors.
e. Smoke detectors must be installed throughout the day care center,
including interior corridors, sleeping areas, and lounges.
f. All higher hazard areas such as laboratories shall not be located
in the same fire area as the day care center and shall be
separated by at least two-hour construction regardless of
sprinkler protection. Laboratories or other hazards shall not be
located where they present a hazard or expose the egress routes
from the day care center.
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standards shall be followed where those requirements are more strict than the
UFAS standards. This policy is derived from GSA PBS PQ100.1 and shall remain
in effect until the UFAS requirements have been updated and reissued. At
present, UFAS requirements were updated in 1989.
a. The criteria below address safety issues relating to general
access to EPA facilities. For specific design guidance and
requirements related to the following issues, refer to UFAS, ADA
and ANSI A117.1, Providing Accessibility and Usability for
Physically Handicapped People.
(1) Fire Alarms. Provide visual warning devices to alert the
hearing impaired.
(2) Ramps. Examine the slope, length, surface-friction
attributes, and exposure to weather of access ramps to
ensure that they meet the applicable UFAS, ADA and ANSI
requirements.
(3) Exit Paths. Ensure that exit paths are wide enough to
permit access by wheelchairs and electrically powered carts.
Also ensure that items are not stored in exit paths which
would impede the exit of a person in a wheelchair or
electric cart.
(4) Elevator Controls. Ensure that the controls and emergency
telephones of self-service elevators are within reach of a
person in a wheelchair.
(5) Fire Doors. Ensure that the hardware on fire and exit
doors, particularly self-closing fire doors, can be operated
by a person in a wheelchair.
(6) Occupant Emergency Plans. These plans shall specifically
address the needs of handicapped persons in general, and the
specific needs of EPA employees assigned to the facility.
b. The above criteria do not address the occupational exposures of
handicapped individuals. When facility designs are modified to
accommodate a handicapped person, the facility design attributes
will require a careful analysis of the hazards associated with the
work to be performed and the specific needs of individual
employees. The following is a list of the more common issues to
be addressed from the perspective of an individual EPA employee:
(!) Accessibility of emergency equipment, such as emergency
showers, eyewashes, and alarms
(2) Appropriateness, accessibility, transportation, and use of
hazardous materials within the facility
(3) Accessibility to fume hoods, height of work benches, and
controls on test equipment.
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CHAPTER 5 - MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH PARAGRAPH
TITLES NUMBERS
Purpose 1
References 2
Water Supplies 3
Automatic Sprinkler Protection 4
Halon 1301 Fire-Extinguishing System 5
Gaseous Fire-Extinguishing System 6
Dry Chemical Systems 7
Air-Conditioning Systems 8
Ventilation Systems 9
Heating Equipment 10
HVAC System Performance 11
Laboratory Fume Hoods 12
Internal Combustion Engine . . 13
Elevators 14
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CHAPTER 5 - MECHANICAL SYSTEMS
1. PURPOSE
This chapter establishes the safety requirements of mechanical systems
in buildings such as laboratory fume hoods, and other exhaust devices, water
supply systems, automatic sprinkler systems, fire main systems, fire
extinguishers, air-conditioning systems, heating equipment and elevators.
2. REFERENCES
Unless otherwise specified in this Manual or approved by AEREB and
SHEMD, all mechanical system installations shall conform to the applicable
requirements of the following NFPA and ASHRAE standards and ANSI safety codes:
a. Carbon Dioxide Extinguishing Systems (NFPA 12)
b. Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA 13)
c. Installation of Standpipe and Hose Systems (NFPA 14)
d. Water Spray Fixed Systems (NFPA 15)
e. Dry Chemical Extinguishing Systems (NFPA 17)
f. Wet Chemical Extinguishing Systems (NFPA 17A)
g. Installation of Private Fire Service Mains and Their Appurtenances
(NFPA 24)
h. Water-Based Fire Protection Systems (NFPA 25)
i. Automotive and Marine Service Station Code (NFPA 30A)
j. Installation of Oil Burning Equipment (NFPA 31)
k. Spray Application Using Flammable and Combustible Materials (NFPA
33)
1. Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines (NFPA 37)
m. Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals (NFPA 45)
n. National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54)
o. Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases {NFPA 58)
p. Storage and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas (NFPA 59A)
q. Protection of Electronic Computer/Data Processing Equipment (NFPA
75)
r. Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems (NFPA
90A)
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for each type of water use shall not be cumulative or additive and are
determined as described below.
a. Fire Department Hose Streams. The hose stream required shall be
determined using the needed fire flow calculation method as
outlined in Section 300 of the Fire Suppression Rating Schedule of
the Insurance Service Office. The needed fire flow shall be based
on the fire areas of the building, not the entire area of the
building. The fire area requiring the largest water flow shall be
the needed fire flow for the building.
b. Standoipe Hose Stream. When standpipe systems are provided or
required, the minimum water supply shall be in accordance with
NFPA 14 and the local building code based on the number of
standpipes risers provided in the building or in each fire area.
c. Automatic Sprinklers. The minimum flow required to meet the
automatic sprinkler system shall be determined by hydraulic
calculations as required for sprinkler system designs. The water
supply requirements shall include all sprinkler flow and required
hose stream allowances as outlined by NFPA 13.
4. AUTOMATIC SPRINKLER PROTECTION
Automatic sprinkler protection shall be provided in all new EPA
facilities. In addition, existing facilities shall also be provided with
sprinkler protection under the following circumstances:
a. In major modifications to existing laboratories that use
chemicals, flammable liquids, or explosive materials
b. Throughout all floors of any building where EPA occupancy is 75
feet high or higher. The height shall be measured from the lowest
point of fire department access to the floor level of the highest
occupiable story
c. Throughout occupancies exceeding the area or height limitations
allowed by the local building code
d. In all areas below grade that meet the definition of "windowless*
by local code
e. In all areas that contain a high severity occupancy as defined by
GSA
f. Throughout windowless buildings, windowless floors of buildings,
or windowless areas exceeding the allowable limits of the local
building code
g. In cooling towers of combustible construction under the conditions
described in the air-conditioning systems section of this chapter
h. In any location where maximum fire potential of the occupancy
exceeds the fire-resistance capabilities of exposed live load-
bearing structural elements (e.g., moving a flammable liquids
operation into a former office area)
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or other device connected to initiate an alarm on the building
fire alarm system. Refer to Chapter 6, Electrical Systems,
paragraph 12 of this Manual for fire alarm requirements.
b. Acceptance Tests. After installation, all mechanical and
electrical equipment shall be tested to ensure correct operation
and function. All approval or acceptance testing shall be
performed in accordance with section 4-7 of NFPA 2001.
7. DRY CHEMICAL SYSTEMS
Dry chemical systems stop the chain reaction that occurs in combustion.
Dry chemical is difficult to remove from electrical contacts. Use is
generally restricted to cafeteria exhaust hoods and plenums, deep fat fryers,
and grills. Pre-engineered systems are satisfactory for this use.
a. Design Requirements. Systems shall be designed in accordance with
NFPA 17 and 96. Discharge of dry chemical shall actuate a
pressure switch connected to initiate an alarm on the building
fire alarm system. Refer to Chapter 6, Electrical Systems,
paragraph 12 of this Manual for fire alarm requirements.
b. Acceptance Tests. After installation, all mechanical and
electrical equipment shall be tested to ensure correct operation
and function. When all necessary corrections have been made, a
full discharge test shall be conducted. Plastic or cotton bags
shall be attached to each individual nozzle and the system
activated. Cooking appliance nozzles must discharge at least two
pounds and duct or plenum nozzles must discharge at least five
pounds of agent. Pre-engineered systems that fail to discharge
these amounts will be considered unsatisfactory.
8. AIR-CONDITIONING SYSTEMS
The refrigerant in air-conditioning systems should be recycled during
servicing as required under section 608 of the Clean Air Act. Existing
chillers should be retrofitted or replaced with CFC-free refrigerant systems.
Except as set forth herein, all air-conditioning and ventilating systems
for the handling of air not contaminated with flammables or explosive vapors
or dust shall conform to the requirements of NFPA 90A.
a. Air Distribution. No vertical portion of the exit facilities or
protected hallways leading from the vertical exit to the outside
of the building shall be used for the normal distribution or
return of air.
b. Ducts. Ducts shall conform to the requirements of NFPA 90A. Any
duct linings or coverings shall be of noncombustible construction.
The total assembly of the duct lining, including adhesive and any
coatings or additives involved, shall have a fire hazard rating
not exceeding 25 for flame spread or 50 for fuel contribution or
smoke development. Use of porous duct liners that can collect
dirt and moisture contribute to indoor air quality problems. As
such, the use of such liners should be avoided and not be
considered for new construction. Where liners exist, and
particularly in areas close to humidification or dehumidification
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floor as stipulated in NFPA 90A, and the fans affecting airflow
for the fire floor shall be automatically shut down upon actuation
of the sprinkler system or manual fire alarm pull stations.
9. VENTILATION SYSTEMS
All processes, operations, or other situations which present the
possibility of hazardous accumulation of combustible or explosive vapors,
dust, fumes, or other airborne substances shall be provided with ventilation
facilities in accordance with NFPA 91, NFPA 45, and Chapter 4, Interior
Construction and Arrangement, paragraph 7.f of this Manual.
a. Cooking Equipment. Cooking equipment used in processes producing
smoke or grease shall be designed and protected in accordance with
NFPA 96. Any insulation shall be of nohcombustible materials. If
other utilities are included in a vertical shaft with the grease
duct, they shall not be insulated or lined with combustible
materials.
10. HEATING EQUIPMENT
Furnaces and boilers for central heating systems shall be located in a
room having two-hour fire-resistive walls, floors, and ceilings with openings
protected by automatic or self-closing 1.5-hour fire doors. For small units
consisting of a single furnace on a hot air system or a boiler not exceeding
15 psi pressure or a rating of 10 boiler horsepower, one-hour fire resistance
is permissible.
a. Standards. Heating equipment will be provided in accordance with
the following standards except as noted otherwise:
(1) Oil-fired - NFPA 31
(2) Gas-fired - NFPA 54
(3) Liquefied petroleum gas-fired - NFPA 58
(4) Liquefied natural gas-fired - NFPA 59A.
b. Fuel Storage. Where liquid fuel is used, a recessed floor or curb
shall be provided with ramps at the openings. The height of the
recess or curb shall be sufficient to contain all the fuel in case
the tank or container ruptures.
c. Shop Operations. Shop, storage, or other operations that involve
flammable or combustible materials and are not directly related to
the operations in the furnace or boiler rooms shall be located
elsewhere unless the room is sprinkler protected. Incidental
operations which do not utilize significant amounts of flammable
materials are allowed in furnace or boiler rooms if proper
separations are maintained between combustible materials and other
ignition sources (e.g., boiler equipment).
d. Burners. Regardless of size, burners on suspended oil-fired
heaters shall be provided with flame supervision that will ensure
shutdown in not more than four seconds if flame failure occurs or
trial for ignition does not establish a flame.
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(1) Carbon Monoxide. Values over several parts per million
(ppm) indicate inappropriate presence of combustion by-
products
(2) Carbon Dioxide. Peak values exceeding 1,000 ppm are
indicators of underventilation
(3) Formaldehyde. For all spaces, peak values exceeding 0.1 ppm
may trigger irritational effects in the normal population.
b. Indoor space shall meet the EPA National Ambient Air Quality
Standards. As established in ASHRAE 62-1989, HVAC systems will be
designed and operated to provide:
(1) 20 CFM of outdoor air per person in offices and 20 CFM of
outdoor air per person in laboratories. (Note: laboratories
should exceed this using one-pass air.)
(2) 60 CFM of outdoor air per person in smoking lounges, which
also must have local mechanical exhaust with no air
recirculation
(3) Copy rooms or rooms with similar stationary sources of
contaminants equipped with a local mechanical exhaust with
no air recirculation.
c. When installing new furniture, rugs, or drapery that may off-gas
chemical contaminants (particularly in a facility that minimally
meets the HVAC performance criteria listed above), consider
performing such installations with at least 48 hours of off-
gassing time before occupancy. Providing a high rate of fresh air
ventilation during this time period will assist the off-gassing
process. This procedure should apply to other activities such as
painting and applying pesticides.
d. Locate HVAC intakes as far as possible from cooling towers,
vehicle exhaust sources, and laboratory hood exhaust systems. The
position and design of the HVAC intakes should minimize the
potential contamination from such sources, both on-site and off-
site.
e. EPA facilities shall institute and document a maintenance program
to ensure that designed HVAC performance levels are maintained.
This program, at a minimum, shall address periodic:
(1) Filter cleaning/replacement
(2) Cleaning and maintenance of the HVAC duct, coil, condensate
drip pan and air handler room
(3) Biological testing or biocide monitoring of the water in
cooling towers and condensate drip pans
(4) Performance testing, including but not limited to fan
efficiency, air distribution and amount of outside air.
Refer to the EPA document Building Air Quality (EPA/4001-91/033)
for a model HVAC maintenance program.
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(3) Face Velocity. Air entering the open area of a fume hood
(face) should be uniform and perpendicular to the face. Air
flow rates must be sufficient to provide protection from
operations performed in the hood. Competing influences such
as supply air currents are aspects of the room which will
affect face-velocity.
(4) Hood Turbulence. Upon entering the hood, the air is drawn
past equipment and sources of contamination toward the
exhaust slots. Much of the air within the hood is in a
turbulent state. Increased turbulence will result at
greater airflows than needed to provide a good vector and
contain the contaminant. When turbulence is excessive, it
creates the potential for greater mixing of contaminated air
and room air at the hood face. Face velocities should not
exceed 135 fpm.
d. Fume Hood Systems. The laboratory fume hood is part of an overall
system that includes the laboratory, the laboratory HVAC system,
an exhaust duct system, an exhaust motor and fan, a low-flow
warning device, and sometimes effluent cleaning devices.
Laboratory workers assume that, if used and maintained properly,
the hood system will provide them with the means to work with
hazardous materials without undue exposure to contaminants
generated in the hood. It is essential, therefore, that each
portion of the system be chosen carefully.
All laboratory fume hoods purchased by the Agency shall meet the
construction and performance criteria contained in guidelines
published by EPA's SHEMD. Prior to EPA purchasing any hood model,
the laboratory fume hood manufacturer, in a test facility provided
by the manufacturer, at no cost to the government, shall certify
the proper performance of the fume hood in accordance with EPA's
criteria. In addition to complying with EPA's fume hood criteria,
each hood shall have an ASHRAE 110 standard performance rating as
manufactured (AM) of 4.0 AM 0.05. After installing new hoods, EPA
requires the manufacturer to evaluate the installation and
performance of the hoods prior to acceptance and use by EPA.
It is the responsibility of SHEMD to approve the certification of
fume hoods. SHEMD should document the approval of all newly
installed fume hoods for AEREB. A list of approved or certified
hoods is available from SHEMD.
Materials should meet corrosion resistance standards, blowers
should be rated or otherwise approved for their use and plumbing
fixtures, and electrical outlets should meet existing codes. EPA
specification and testing procedures for checking the performance
of fume hoods are available from AEREB and SHEMD.
e. Fume Hood Types. Selected fume hood types are listed and
described below.
(1) Constant Volume Bypass Type. The laboratory hood is often
an integral part of the building exhaust system. The volume
of air exhausted should be constant, which can be achieved
by having an airflow bypass above the sash through which
room air can pass as the sash is lowered. The bypass sizing
and design must meet the following conditions:
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the exhaust flow is reduced (e.g., foreign matter in fan,
broken belt, normal wear and maintenance). Features
described for the constant volume bypass-type hood are
applicable to the auxiliary hood, including the bypass
arrangement. Note that auxiliary air supplies must be
turned off to test the face velocity of the hood, and a
readily accessible means to turn off auxiliary air
electrical power will facilitate such testing.
(4) Radioactive Isotope Hoods. In addition to the features
described for constant volume bypass and auxiliary air-type
hoods, radioactive isotope hoods should have panels at the
sides, back, top, and plenum enclosure of 18-gauge type 302
stainless steel with structural members, reinforcements, and
brackets of 16-gauge type 302 stainless steel. The work
surface should be 14-gauge type 302 stainless steel. Joints
should be fully sealed by welding or fine-line solder. The
base structure should have a heavy angle frame reinforced to
support one ton of lead brick shielding.
To minimize radioactive emissions to the atmosphere, high-
efficiency particulate aerosol (HEPA) filters should be
considered as a best available control technology for
radioactive isotope hoods. Guidance on the limitations,
selection, and design of radioactive air-cleaning devices
can be found in the Nuclear Air Cleaning Handbook, ERDA 76-
21, and in .Nuclear Power Plants Air-Cleaning Units and
Components, ANSI/ASME N509.
(5) Perchloric Acid Hoods. In addition to the features
described for constant volume bypass and auxiliary air-type
hoods, perchloric acid hoods must use materials that are
non-reactive, acid resistant, and relatively impervious.
Type 316 stainless steel with welded joints should be
specified, although certain other materials may be
acceptable. Corners should be rounded to facilitate
cleaning. Work surfaces should be water tight with a trough
at the rear for collection of wash-down water.
A wash-down system must be provided with spray nozzles to
adequately wash the entire assembly, including the blower,
all ductwork, and the interior of the hood. The system must
have an easily accessible strainer to filter particulates in
the water supply that might clog the nozzles. The wash-down
system should be activated immediately after a hood has been
in use. Ductwork should be installed with minimal
horizontal runs, no sharp turns, and must not be shared with
any other hood.
Exhaust fans must be of an acid-resistant, non-sparking (Air
Movement and Control Association (AMCA) Standard Type A)
construction, and lubricated with a fluorocarbon grease
only. Gaskets should be made of a tetrafluoroethylene
polymer. Perchloric acid must never be used in hoods not
specifically designed for its use. Organic materials,
strong dehydrating or desiccating agents, and oxidizing or
reducing materials must not be used in a hood used with
perchloric acid.
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control velocity be less than 80 FPM at any sash height. The sash
shall be equipped with a control device to maintain the sash at
the operating height (e.g., releasable sash stops); the hood shall
be equipped with a device to monitor the face velocity and provide
a visible and audible alarm when the face velocity is less than
100 FPM.
i. Annual Certification. The performance of fume hoods shall be
certified annually and after any significant maintenance has been
performed on the exhaust system or room air supply system. The
performance certification shall be performed in accordance with
EPA's guidelines and the procedures prescribed by the Scientific
Equipment and Furniture Association (SEFA).
All fume hoods purchased by EPA shall conform with the following
EPA regulations:
(1) The fume hood shall be in accordance with the EPA fume hood
specifications for constant volume bypass type hood,
auxiliary air hood, radioactive isotope hood and percholoric
acid hood
(2) The fume hood shall pass the pre-purchase tests outlined in
ASHRAE 110 with a performance rating of 4.0 AM 0.05.
(3) Following installation, fume hoods shall pass EPA's
certification criteria outlined in ASHRAE 110. The test
shall be performed by the manufacturer in accordance with
SHEMD's annual certification guidelines in the presence of
an EPA representative.
The recommended flow rates will provide the desired worker
protection for any operation that should be performed with this
type of equipment. Flows lower than those proposed do not ensure
the protection factors desired for normal conditions such as
operator movement. Higher flows than those proposed are not
required for a good laboratory arrangement and will not improve
hood performance. If the arrangement is unsatisfactory, it should
be improved rather than increasing hood face velocity. Increased
turbulence within the hood and around the operator results when
higher velocities are used.
j. Exhaust System. Individual exhaust systems should be provided for
each fume hood when the mixing of effluents is inadvisable or when
the effluent must be filtered, scrubbed, washed-down or otherwise
treated before discharge. Manifolding of fume hood exhausts are
allowed if a single discharge point is advantageous and the air
supply suitably controls comfort conditions while maintaining
proper laboratory pressure conditions. Pressure in laboratories
shall be maintained as negative with respect to adjacent areas.
Manifolded exhaust systems should incorporate staged multiple
constant volume fans with control dampers to maintain a constant
static pressure in the manifold to ensure quick response to
changing hood conditions. Variable speed fans are permitted if
they are advantageous. Manifolding of fume hoods shall meet the
requirements of NFPA 45.
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exhaust system malfunction or as a continuous indication of proper
hood operation. The warning system must be connected to a power
source that will sound an alarm even if electrical power to the
hood is lost.
13. INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE
Stationary internal combustion engines, such as gasoline- or diesel-
powered generators or fire pumps, shall conform to the requirements of NFPA
37. Underground fuel tanks for such systems shall be in accordance with
Chapter 8, Environmental Management, paragraph 5.c of this Manual.
14. ELEVATORS
Elevators, dumbwaiters, escalators, and moving walks shall be in
accordance with ANSI A17.1. Other requirements are described below.
a. All automatic elevators having a travel distance of 25 feet or
more shall be recalled when any fire alarm-initiating device is
activated, such as elevator lobby smoke detectors, manual fire
alarm stations, or sprinkler system waterflow switches. All
elevators must be recalled when the recall system is actuated.
Smoke detectors other than those required by ANSI A17.1 shall not
initiate automatic elevator recall.
b. Smoke detectors shall be provided for every elevator lobby
including the main lobby. -Smoke detectors that activate the
automatic elevator recall are also required in the elevator
machine rooms.
c. An alternate capture floor shall be provided in accordance with
Rule 211.3b(2) of ANSI A17.1. Activation of an alarm-initiating
device on the main capture floor shall return the elevators to the
alternate capture floor.
d. Elevator lobby smoke detectors should not initiate the building
fire alarm system but shall send an alarm to the fire department
or central station service and activate the elevator recall
system.
e. Signs must be placed in the elevator lobbies next to all elevators
to inform occupants not to use the elevators if there is a fire.
f. If elevators are used to transport chemicals, provisions shall be
made to ensure that non-laboratory personnel and space
(administrative or business occupancies) are not exposed to or
contaminated by chemical substances. For example, chemicals must
be packaged in accordance with DOT specifications, or an
alternative route of transport must be provided. This route may
include an elevator opening into a vestibule separate from
administrative or business occupancies, a multiple-door elevator
entering into a laboratory, separate dumbwaiters, or alternate
corridors or routes. A combination of these options can be used
to achieve this goal.
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CHAPTER 6 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH PARAGRAPH
TITLES NUMBERS
Purpose 1
References 2
Electrical Installation 3
Plenums, Ducts and Other Air-Handling Spaces 4
Transformers 5
Outside Substations and Transformer Installations 6
Distribution Systems 7
Fire Safety Requirements for Lighting Fixtures 8
Location for the Storage, Handling and Transferring of Flammable
Liquids, Gases, Vapors and Combustible Dusts 9
Exit Lighting and Markings 10
Fire Alarm Systems 11
Emergency Lighting 12
Emergency Power 13
Ground Fault Protection of Equipment 14
Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters 15
Uninterruptible Power Supply 16
Electrical Safety Requirements 17
Lightning Protection 18
Communication Equipment 19
Lighting 20
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CHAPTER 6 - ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS
1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this chapter is to provide the safety requirements for
the installation of electrical systems to include fire alarm systems, exit and
emergency lighting, emergency shutdown of ventilation and cooling systems, and
emergency power for critical equipment.
2. REFERENCES
Unless otherwise specified herein, all electrical installations shall
conform to the applicable requirements of the following current national
association standards:
a. National Electrical Code (NEC) (NFPA 70)
b. Life Safety Code (NFPA 101)
c. National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72)
d. Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems (NFPA
90A)
e. Factory Mutual Engineering Loss Prevention Data Sheet 5-4,
Transformers
f. Emergency and Standby Power Systems (NFPA 110)
g. Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems (NFPA
111)
h. Lightning Protection Code (NFPA 780)
i. 29 CFR 1910.303-305.
j. Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of
Chemicals, National Research Council
k. Title III Standards for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
3. ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION
Electrical installations shall be in accordance with the 'NEC, local
codes and the requirements of this chapter, whichever is more stringent.
a. Electrical Installations. Electrical installations shall maintain
the integrity of the fire-stopping, fire resistance, fire
separation, smoke control, zoning, and other structurally oriented
fire safety features (NFPA 70, Article 300-21 and NFPA 101,
chapter 6).
b. Electrical Loads.' Sufficient electrical circuits and receptacles
shall be provided to eliminate the need for long extension cords,
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7. DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
All electrical wiring shall be installed in conduit or otherwise
physically protected in accordance with the latest edition of the NEC.
8. FIRE SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR LIGHTING FIXTURES
Lighting fixtures shall meet NFPA 70 and the following criteria.
a. Mounting. All lamps shall be mounted in a manner that prevents
the possibility of direct contact between the lamp and any
combustible material. Wherever accidental contact is remotely
possible, the lamp shall be protected by a guard, globe,
reflector, fixture, or other means (NFPA 70, Article 410).
b. Fluorescent Fixtures. All fluorescent fixtures installed indoors
shall be provided with ballasts that have integral thermal
overload protection (NFPA 70, Article 410).
c. Light Diffusers. Light diffusers shall be of either
noncombustible material or of a design or material which will drop
from the fixture before ignition. Where combustible "drop-out"
type fixtures are used, plastic material shall not constitute more
than 30 percent of the total ceiling area. Where luminous or
diffuser ceilings are used, these restrictions also apply.
d. Location. Lighting in locations where dangerous gases, liquids,
dusts, or fibers potentially exist shall meet the requirements of
NFPA 70, Article 500.
9. LOCATION FOR THE STORAGE. HANDLING AND TRANSFERRING OF FLAMMABLE
LIQUIDS. GASES. VAPORS AND COMBUSTIBLE DUSTS
In rooms, spaces, or areas where the storage, handling, or transfer of
flammable liquids, gases or vapors, combustible dusts, or ignitable fibers or
flyings occur shall meet the requirements established in latest edition of
NFPA 70, Article 500. The specific classifications are:
Class I: Flammable gases, vapors and liquids
Class II: Combustible dust
Class III: Ignitable fibers or flyings.
Of these classifications. Class I is most frequently encountered in EPA
facilities. Class I locations are broken down into Division 1 and Division 2
locations. Class I Division 1 locations are typically locations where
ignitable concentrations of gases or vapors can exist under normal conditions.
This would include areas used for dispensing or transferring volatile liquids
from one container to another or spray operations that use volatile liquid.
Class I Division 2 locations are locations where under normal conditions
ignitable concentrations of gases or vapors would not exist either due to
sealed containers or provision of mechanical ventilation. It should be noted
that Class I Division 2 locations could develop ignitable concentrations under
unusual conditions such as failure of the ventilation system or accidental
rupture of storage containers. Such unusual conditions are not a valid basis
for a Class I Division 2 location being considered a Class I Division 1
location.
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Storage occupancies equal to or larger than 100,000 square feet
shall have fire alarm systems.
All other occupancies shall follow the requirements in NFPA 101.
b. Manual Systems Input. Each system shall provide manual input from
manual fire alarm stations which shall be located in exit or
public corridors adjacent to each stairway and each exit discharge
from the building. Additional stations may be provided at any
location where there is a special risk or where the travel
distance to the nearest station exceeds 200 feet. As a general
principle, the station shall be located in a position where a
person using it will be between the fire and the exit.
If necessary, emergency telephone systems shall be provided in the
exit stairs or other protected location as indicated for manual
fire alarm stations. In addition, telephones shall be provided at
each elevator lobby at the ground and alternate elevator capture
floors.
c. Automatic Systems Input. Automatic fire detection shall be
provided as described below.
(1) A waterflow switch shall be provided for each floor or fire
area protected by wet pipe sprinkler systems. Other types
of sprinkler systems will be activated by a pressure switch
at the dry or deluge valve only.
(2) Automatic heat or smoke detection shall not be installed in
lieu of automatic sprinkler protection unless otherwise
supported through recognized equivalency methodologies (NFPA
101M). Detection shall be provided where a pre-action or
deluge sprinkler system exists. Automatic sprinkler
protection requirements are described in Chapter 5,
Mechanical Systems, paragraph 4.
(3) Smoke detectors shall be provided for essential electronic
equipment (chapter 7 of NFPA 72), air handling systems
(chapter 5 of NFPA 72), and elevator lobbies and machine
rooms (chapter 5 of NFPA 72). All smoke detectors shall be
approved for their intended use and installation. Smoke
detectors require periodic maintenance, and arrangements for
this should be made at the time of installation to ensure
proper operation and to guard against false alarm or
unintended discharge.
(4) Detection in air handling systems shall comply with NFPA
90A. Detectors when required shall be located in the main
supply duct downstream of a fan filter and in the return air
ducts for each individual floor or fire area.
(5) When heat and smoke detectors are installed, they shall be
designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 72.
(6) Special hazard protection systems shall initiate an alarm.
These special systems include, but are not limited to, dry
chemical extinguishing systems, elevator recall systems, and
computer detection systems.
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(4) If an entire building can be evacuated within five minutes,
the fire alarm shall sound either throughout the building or
on selected floors. Where selective evacuation is used
based on local code requirements, features such as smoke
control and automatic sprinklers shall be provided as
necessary to ensure the safety of occupants remaining in the
building.
(5) For voice communications systems, only the occupants on the
fire floor and one floor above are expected to relocate or
evacuate. They must automatically receive that message and
all occupants shall be notified of the emergency. Where
automatic prerecorded voices are used, message arrangement
and content shall be designed to fit the needs of the
individual building (e.g., bilingual where appropriate).
(6) The use of visual signals to supplement the audible fire
alarm system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA 72
and Title III Standards for the Americans with Disabilities
Act(ADA).
(7) Every alarm reported on a building fire alarm system shall
automatically actuate one of the following:
(a) A transmitter approved by UL connected to a privately
operated, central station, protective signaling system
conforming to NFPA 72. The central station facility
shall be listed by UL, and automatic telephone dialers
shall not be used
(b) An auxiliary tripping device connected into a
municipal fire alarm box to notify the local fire
department in accordance with NFPA 72
(c) A direct supervised circuit between a building and the
local fire alarm headquarters or constantly manned
fire station in accordance with NFPA 72
(d) As a last resort, an alternate method approved by
SHEMD.
(8) Notification of the fire department shall not exceed 90
seconds after the initiation of an alarm. The specific
location of the alarm may be determined by the fire
department after they arrive.
(9) A supervisory condition shall transmit a separate signal to
a central station, different from an alarm signal. No more
than one supervisory signal shall be provided for an entire
building. Refer to the automatic systems input information
in this chapter in paragraph 12.c.(7) for required
supervisory conditions.
(10) Additional automatic actions shall also be performed for
smoke control, elevator capture, and door closings. Smoke
control and elevator capture shall be coordinated with the
evacuation plan for a building. (A summary of systems
actions is shown in Table 6-1.)
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(1) Permanent record of alarm, supervisory, or trouble
conditions via a printer
(2) Initiation of an alert tone followed by a digitized voice
message.
All power supply equipment and wiring shall be installed in
accordance with requirements of the NEC and NFPA 72.
h. Reliability. The maximum amount of time from actuation of a
system input device until initiation of all system functions shall
be 10 seconds. Any system alarm input device shall be capable of
initiating an alarm during a single break or a single ground fault
condition on any system alarm-initiating circuit (Class A feature,
Style D or E). In addition, any signaling line circuit of a
multiplex system (other than combination multiplex-point wired
systems) shall also perform its intended service during a wire-to-
wire short or a combination of a single break and a single ground
of a circuit (Class A feature, Style D or E).
12. EMERGENCY LIGHTING
An emergency lighting system shall be provided in accordance with NFPA
70, Article 700 and arranged to provide a minimum of three foot-candle
illumination (measured at floor level) throughout the entire path of egress;
including exit access routes, exit stairways, or other routes such as exit
passageways to the outside of the building. Laboratories, large open areas
such as cafeterias, assembly areas, large mechanical, electrical, and storage
rooms, and open plan office spaces where exit access is normally through the
major portion of these areas, shall be provided with emergency lighting.
Additionally, emergency lighting systems shall be provided in any location
where chemicals are stored, handled, or used and in large computer rooms. The
emergency lighting in laboratory rooms should provide at least three foot-
candles of illumination, measured at the exit access door. The type of system
used shall be such that it will operate in the event of any failure of a
public utility or internal disruption of the normal power distribution system
in a building. Buildings seven stories or less may be powered from
connections to two separate substations from a reliable public utility.
Automatic transfer switching shall be provided for the emergency power supply.
13. EMERGENCY POWER
Table 6-2 on page 6-10 outlines the requirements for emergency power
based on building height and particular fire safety systems. Generators are
not required as part of these criteria unless an economic analysis of the cost
of installation and maintenance of acceptable emergency power sources shows a
generator to be the most cost effective. Automatic switching schemes shall be
provided for all emergency power sources. Where emergency generators are
used, their installation shall be in accordance with NFPA 110 and NFPA 70,
Article 700.
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14. GROUND FAULT PROTECTION OF EQUIPMENT
Systems carrying 150 volts or greater to ground, except emergency
systems, and not exceeding 600 volts phase to phase shall be provided with
ground fault protection for each service disconnecting means rated 1,000
amperes or more. Necessary precautions shall, however, be taken to minimize
the possibility of nuisance tripping. In addition, all buses or other
conductors at motor control centers, switchgear, switchboards, and busways
shall be insulated or isolated.
15. GROUND FAULT CIRCUIT INTERRUPTERS PROTECTION FOR PERSONNEL
As a minimum requirement, ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)
protection shall be provided for all 125 volts, single phase, 15 and 20 ampere
receptacles, outdoors, elevator electrical systems as required by NFPA 70,
Article 620 and Prudent Practices, and receptacles installed on roofs. GFCI
protection shall also be required under these circumstances:
a. In any other location where EPA personnel are operating electrical
equipment in direct contact with water or other liquids or where
electric receptacles are installed within six feet of a sink
provided with a plumbed water supply or drain, tub, or other water
source
b. If such electrical equipment is prescribed for GFCI protection by
the manufacturer
c. If previous experience indicates a need for GFCI protection
It shall be the responsibility of AEREB to ensure these devices are
installed as required. This protection shall be provided in new and existing
construction by means of interrupter devices incorporated in receptacles or
circuit breakers. These GFCI receptacles may be the terminating type or the
feed-through type, whichever will satisfy the need. GFCI receptacles shall be
color-coded or otherwise indicate GFCI protection. Scheduled testing of the
GFCI is required in accordance with manufacturers recommendations, but not
less than semi-annually.
Existing circuits with GFCI protection shall remain unless persistent
problems are encountered or when renovations occur which would alter the use
such that GFCI protection is not necessary. An example of such a renovation
would be converting an aquatic lab to office space. The electrical ground
system shall be checked or verified upon completion of the initial
installation for continuity to the conduit system, the equipment housing, and
the final connection to the receptacle grounding stud. For aquatic
laboratories and other required areas, the receptacles shall be connected to
the grounded system in addition to the installation of the GFCI-protective
device in the receptacle.
16. UNINTERRUPTIBLE POWER SUPPLY
Battery rooms that contain batteries used with uninterruptible power
supply (UPS) systems and are within the scope of NFPA 111 shall be
mechanically ventilated, with air exhausted at a minimum rate of six air
changes per hour. The ventilation system shall be designed to limit hydrogen
accumulation to less than an explosive mixture. An exhaust fan, roof
ventilator, or ducted in-line fan should be used. The fan shall be connected
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18. LIGHTNING PROTECTION SYSTEMS
The requirements and installation criteria for lightning protection
systems shall be in accordance with NFPA 780, UL 96A and the local building
code.
19. COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT
When equipment is essential to the continuity of operation of the
building or is otherwise essential, the communications room shall be protected
by fire-rated enclosures conforming to the requirements for partitions
contained in Chapter 4, Interior Construction and Arrangement, paragraph 5.
Communications installations shall meet the requirements of the current
edition of NFPA 70, Article 800-52. The EPA telecommunications guidelines of
January 1995 should be used as a guidance document for all new installations.
20. LIGHTING
Illumination in EPA facilities shall be maintained as near as practical
to the recommendations of the Illuminating Engineering Society of North
America, as described in the latest edition of its handbook entitled
.Recommended Practices, as well as from the guidelines established in 41 CFR
101-20, GSA's PBS PQ100.1, Table 6-2 and other consensus documents including:
a. 50/100 foot-candles in laboratory spaces, measured at bench-level
. as necessary
b. 50 foot-candles at work stations in general office areas, measured
at a height of 30 inches above floor-level
c. 30 foot-candles in other work areas, measured at 30 inches above
floor-level
d. 5 to 10 foot-candles in corridors and stairways measured at the
walking surface.
Where unshielded broad spectrum or ultraviolet lighting is installed,
accommodations must be made to protect photosensitive employees, operations,
or equipment. Ultraviolet lights installed for scientific operations shall be
evaluated for safety on a case-by-case basis and shielding or interlocks shall
be provided where appropriate.
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CHAPTER 7 - MISCELLANEOUS OCCUPANCY FEATURES
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH PARAGRAPH
TITLES NUMBERS
Purpose 1
References 2
Trash Rooms 3
Flammable Liquids 4
Hazardous Chemical Storage 5
Flammable and Oxidizing Gases 6
Gas Cylinders 7
Electronic Equipment 8
Stages 9
Laboratories 10
Emergency Equipment and Showers 11
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CHAPTER 7 - MISCELLANEOUS OCCUPANCY FEATURES
1. PURPOSE
This chapter establishes and references the criteria for fire protection
features of miscellaneous occupancies such as trash rooms to include recycling
space, flammable liquid storage, gas cylinders, electronic equipment,
communications equipment, and stages.
2. REFERENCES
Unless otherwise specified herein, the safety features of these
occupancies shall conform to the applicable requirements of the following NFPA
standards and other cited references:
a. Installation of Sprinkler Systems (NFPA 13)
b. Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code {NFPA 30)
c. Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals (NFPA 45)
d. National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54)
e. Compressed and Liquefied Gases in Portable Cylinders (NFPA 55)
f. Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (NFPA 58)
g. Storage and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas (NFPA 59A)
h. Protection of Electronic Computer/Data Processing Equipment (NFPA
75)
i. Installation of Exhaust Systems for Air Conveyance of Materials
(NFPA 91)
j. Life Safety Code (NFPA 101)
k. Handbook of Compressed Gases, Compressed Gas Association, Inc.
1. Federal Property Management Regulations (FPMR), 41 CFR 101-20
m. Facilities Standards for the Public Buildings Service (GSA PBS-
PQ100.1)
n. Criteria for Siting of Laboratory Facilities Based on Safety and
Environmental Factors, prepared for U.S. EPA by Johns Hopkins
University, School of Hygiene and Public Health, Peter S.J. Lees
and Morton Corn, 1981
o. Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of
Chemicals, National Research Council
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b. Laboratory Cabinets. Laboratory cabinets used for flammable
liquids storage must be of a type approved by a nationally
recognized testing laboratory. If testing or evaluation identify
that a health hazard exists from the storage of chemicals in the
cabinet and administrative controls are ineffective, venting to
the outside atmosphere of the cabinets is mandated in order to
control the risk. When a cabinet is vented, it shall be vented
using a mechanical exhaust system that is in accordance with NFPA
91 and Appendix A of NFPA 30 as discussed below.
(1) The ventilation rate must be five to 20 CFM.
(2) Air should be supplied at the top of a cabinet, exhausted
from the bottom, and be swept across all the shelves by
arranging the shelves as baffles or constructing the shelves
of perforated metal.
(3) The inlet fitting should incorporate a flame arrestor.
(4) If a separate exhaust fan is used, it must be roof-mounted
and spark-proof, and it should be weatherproof.
(5) The cabinet exhaust must not be vented into a fume hood, but
may be connected and vented through a fume hood's associated
exhaust system if the operations served by that exhaust
system are not incompatible with the materials stored in the
cabinet.
(6) The vent systems (e.g., tubing or piping) shall be rigid
steel unless other methods to protect the fire integrity of
the vent openings are provided. Means to accomplish this
may include thermally actuated dampers and/or sufficiently
insulated vent tubing.
5. HAZARDOUS CHEMICAL STORAGE
Facilities conforming to the requirements contained in the local
building and fire prevention code shall be provided with storage arrangements
for hazardous chemicals other than flammable liquids which are necessary for
the operation of the laboratory or facility and the operations conducted in
it. Whenever the site arrangements permit, the storage of large quantities of
hazardous chemicals, such as those required to support chemical laboratory
operations, should be separated in accordance with NFPA 30, local codes or
segregated in accordance with NFPA 80A. Provisions shall be made to separate
incompatible chemicals in storage and to prevent inadvertent intermingling of
such chemicals (such as in a drainage system).
a. Indoor Hazardous Chemical Storage Rooms. The inside storage area
for hazardous chemicals shall be in accordance with the
requirements for flammable liquid storage rooms as noted in
paragraph 4.a. They shall also comply with the local building and
fire prevention codes. Hazardous chemical storage shall be
separated from flammable liquid storage by at least two-hour fire-
resistive construction.
b-. Laboratory Cabinets. Laboratory cabinets used for hazardous
chemical storage must be appropriate for their intended use.
Cabinet venting is necessary when health hazard exposures warrant
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is a permissible practice where gas cylinders are delivered and
stored.
c. Supply Lines. Supply lines leading from high-pressure cylinders
shall be securely anchored every five feet to minimize "whipping"
in the event of a line or fitting failure. They shall also meet
the pressure relief requirements of NFPA 45.
d. Cryogenics. For purposes of this section, cryogenic fluid is
defined as any substance that exists only in the vapor phase above
-73.3 degrees Celsius (-100 degrees Fahrenheit) at one atmosphere
and is handled, stored, or used in the liquid state at
temperatures at or below -73.3 degrees Celsius (-100 degrees
Fahrenheit).
(1) Ductility and chemical reactivity of materials must be
considered. Accordingly, when selecting facility related
materials for cryogenic use, refer to The American Society
of Mechanical Engineer's Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code,
Section VII.
(2) To reduce the probability of personnel exposure to extreme
temperatures, flasks of cryogenic materials shall not be
stored or used in corridors or other places of routine
access by non-involved personnel.
(3) Vent lines should be routed to the outside atmosphere at a
location which would preclude a hazardous accumulation of
flammable, toxic or inert gas in the work area.
e. Ventilation. Ventilation rates in any room storing flammable gas
cylinders shall be sufficient to prevent the achievement of the
lower explosive limit resulting from minor leakage of a cylinder.
See NFPA 55 for required ventilation rates.
f. Labeling. To reduce the probability of inappropriate use,
permanent piping and all piping that passes through a wall shall
be labeled at the supply point and at each discharge point with
the name of the material being transported.
8. ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
Except as noted below, or covered elsewhere in this Manual, the
provisions of NFPA 75, Standard for the Protection of Electronic Computer/Data
Processing Equipment, shall be followed. The scope of NFPA 75 shall be used
to determine applicability of this section.
a. Housing. All operations shall be housed in a building of fire-
resistant or noncombustible construction.
b. Separation. All operations shall be separated from other
occupancies within the building by one-hour fire-rated
construction.
c. Construction. All materials used in construction shall have a
flame spread rating of 25 or less and smoke development rating of
50 or less. Raised floors shall be of noncombustible
construction.
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h. Smoke Detectors. Smoke detectors shall be provided at ceilings
and in raised floors and for data storage areas in accordance with
NFPA 72.
i. vital Records. Important and vital records that have not been
duplicated and stored at a different location shall be stored in a
room with two-hour fire-rated enclosure. Automatic sprinkler
protection shall be provided for data storage areas. Class 150
data storage equipment shall be provided only for vital data which
has not been duplicated and which is being stored within the
electronic equipment operations area.
j. Air-Conditioning System. A separate air-conditioning system
should be provided for the electronic equipment operation area.
If a system serves other areas, dampers to protect against both
smoke and fire shall be provided for the duct work at every
penetration of the electronic equipment area fire separation. No
other ducts shall pass through the electronic equipment area.
k. Shutoff Switches. Emergency shutoff switches shall be provided at
all exits from the electronic equipment area which will allow for
the disconnection of all power to the electronic equipment and
air-conditioning systems. The same shutoff switch shall be
connected to a sprinkler waterflow device so that the power to the
computer room, including the air handlers, will be shut off
automatically when the sprinkler system operates. The waterflow
device used to disconnect power to the equipment shall be equipped
with a supervised bypass switch so that maintenance testing can be
conducted without disconnecting power to the computer room
equipment.
1. Emergency Lighting. Emergency lighting shall be provided.
9. STAGES
All stages, platforms in auditoriums, or similar arrangements, shall
conform to the requirements for interior finish contained in Chapter 4,
Interior Construction and Arrangement, paragraph 3. All curtains and
draperies for stages and platforms shall be of a noncombustible material, such
as fiberglass, or shall be of material impregnated to be flame resistant for
the life of the fabric (25 washings).
Stages arranged or intended for theatrical or operatic use that involve
movable scenery, rigging loft, and the like shall conform to the requirements
listed below.
a. Stages shall be separated from all other parts of the building by
the fire partitions having at least a two-hour fire-resistive
rating. The proscenium walls shall also have at least a two-hour
fire-resistive rating.
b. The entire stage and all dressing rooms, storage rooms, prop
rooms, and other back stage areas shall be protected by automatic
sprinklers.
c. The rooms over the stage shall have at least one-hour fire-
resistive construction and shall be provided with emergency
venting of not less than one-eighth of the area of the stage. ,
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(1) The laboratories meet NFPA 45
(2) Laboratory rooms shall not be used as office space by
laboratory personnel (refer to Chapter 4, Interior
Construction and Arrangement, paragraphs 7.d and 7.e, where
laboratories are approved as an accessory or ancillary use)
(3) Laboratories are sprinklered regardless of size. Sprinkler
protection shall be hydraulically calculated to provide a
density of at least 0.17 gpm per square feet over a 3,000-
square-foot area
(4) Laboratory doors swing in the direction of egress
(5) Adjacent occupancies of lesser hazard are separated from
sprinklered laboratory spaces by at least one-hour fire-
rated construction, including Class C fire doors
(6) The laboratories are provided with a one-pass air system
(7) Laboratories have at least eight air changes per hour when
occupied
(8) Laboratories are maintained at negative air pressure
compared to the corridors and adjacent non-laboratory spaces
(9) A manual fire alarm system is installed in all laboratory
buildings and in any building housing laboratories
(10) Backflow preventers of the reduced pressure zone type are
parallel to all water lines serving buildings of a chemical
or biological laboratory nature
(11) All laboratories have a sufficient number of fume hoods,
which all meet the EPA ventilation requirements for hoods.
Laboratories that conduct experimental research and
laboratories that possess, use, handle or store the
following substances are prohibited in buildings containing
office space, unless approved by AEREB and SHEMD:
(a) Biosafety levels 3 or 4 etiological agents (as
classified in the Department of Health and Human
Services, Public Health Service, Biosafety in
Microbiological and Biomedical Laboratories, 3rd
edition)
(b) Explosive materials (as defined by NFPA 45)
(c) Radioactive materials requiring a specific Nuclear
Regulatory Commission (NRC) license
(d) Other extremely toxic substances such as known human
carcinogens
(e) Concentrated (undiluted) pesticides.
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CHAPTER 8 - ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
Table of Contents
PARAGRAPH
TITLES
PARAGRAPH
NUMBERS
Purpose 1
References 2
Air Pollution Control 3
Water Pollution Control 4
Solid and Hazardous Waste 5
Petroleum and Hazardous Substance Storage 6
Pesticides 7
Radioactive Materials Management 8
Design for Environment 9
TABLE TABLE
TITLES NUMBERS
Ozone Nonattainment Area Classifications 8-1
Examples of Acceptable Replacement HVAC Systems . 8-2
Existing CFC System Retrofit Options 8-3
CFC Equipment Servicing 8-4
Required Levels of Vacuum for Equipment Manufactured
On or After November 15, 1993 8-5
Required Levels of Vacuum for Equipment Manufactured
Before November 15, 1993 8-6
Examples of Design for Environment Benefits 8-7
FIGURE FIGURE
TITLES NUMBERS
Overview of NEPA Process 8-1
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CHAPTER 8 - ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT
1. PURPOSE
The purpose of this chapter is to establish environmental specifications
to be addressed by facilities and related building systems. Specific areas
covered by this chapter include facility-related environmental requirements
for air pollution control, water pollution control, hazardous waste and toxic
substances management, fuel and hazardous substance storage, pesticide usage,
and radioactive materials management. Considerations are also presented for
integrating design for environmental factors into the facility planning
process. The EPA Safety, Health and Environmental Management Guidelines can
also be consulted for guidance on operational issues related to environmental
management.
2. REFERENCES
Interspersed throughout this chapter are many reference documents, parts
of the Code of Federal Regulations, and other resources that may enhance
understanding of a particular topical area or provide further guidance. A
complete list of the references cited in this Manual is included in
Appendix A.
3. AIR POLLUTION CONTROL
a. Design Considerations for New Emissions Sources. In accordance
with prevailing federal and/or state requirements, potential
sources of air pollution emissions at EPA facilities shall be
identified in a documented inventory as an integral part of
facility construction or modification planning. Air pollution
control inventories shall be established prior to facility and
equipment construction, considering the following point source
emissions, at a minimum:
(1) Fossil fuel-fired boilers used to produce hot water or steam
for heating purposes
(2) Internal combustion engines (e.g., emergency power
generators)
(3) Solid/biological waste incinerators
(4) Paint/mechanical shop exhausts
(5) Laboratory fume hoods
(6) Cooling towers
(7) Above ground storage tanks and gasoline dispensing
operations.
The air emission inventories shall include a list of point sources
such as those described above, as well as information on types of
fuels (for combustion equipment) and anticipated types of
pollutants,•as information is available. In addition, inventories
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TABLE 8-1
OZONE NONATTAINMENT AREA CLASSIFICATIONS
Classification
Marginal
Moderate
Serious
Severe
Extreme
Emission Thresholds for Major
Sources (tons per year)
100
100
50
25
10
Facilities with sources identified as major under the above
criteria must be designed to reduce emissions by application
of Reasonably Available Control Technology (RACT) or Best
Available Control Technology (BACT) as specified by state
regulations and applicable federal Control Technical
Guidelines adapted by state programs. The EPA Air Pollution
Control Technology Center located in Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina, is a clearinghouse for information on
approved control technologies for different types of air
emissions sources. The Technology Center can be accessed
through its hotline by calling (919) 551-0800.
b. Requirements for Emissions Regulated bv the National Emission
Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPsl. Special
requirements apply to:
(1) Asbestos. Activities involving the demolition or removal of
asbestos-containing materials must be performed in
accordance with the design and operational specifications of
40 CFR Part 61, Subpart M, 29 CFR 1926.58 as well as any
more stringent state and local regulations. Requirements
for operation and maintenance of facilities with asbestos-
containing materials are specified in the EPA Policy and
Program for the Management of Asbestos-Containing Building
Materials at EPA Facilities, and accompanying standard
operating practices and standard methods.
(2) Hexavalent Chromium (Cooling Towers). Facilities shall not
be designed or modified to include the use of hexavalent
chromium-containing biocides or scale inhibitors in cooling
and circulation towers.
(3) Other Hazardous Air Pollutants. Facilities that emit
hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) listed in Section 112 of the
Clean Air Act in quantities that exceed 10 tons per year for
a single HAP or 25 tons per year of two or more HAPs may be
subject to special permit and emission control requirements.
The construction or modification of facilities that have the
potential to emit threshold quantities of these HAPs should
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TABLE 8-2
EXAMPLES OF ACCEPTABLE REPLACEMENT HVAC SYSTEMS
System
Type
Centrifugal
Centrifugal
Reciprocating
Existing
System
R11
R12
R12
Acceptable
Substitute
• HCFC-123
• HCFC-22
• HFC-134a
• HFC-227a
• Ammonia Vapor Compression
• Evaporative Cooling
• Desiccant Cooling
• Ammonia/water Absorption
• Water/Lithium Bromide Absorption
• HFC-123
• HCFC-22
• HFC-134a
• Ammonia Vapor Compression
• Evaporative Cooling
• Desiccant Cooling
• Ammonia/water Absorption
• Water/Lithium Bromide Absorption
• HFC-134a
• R-401A
• R-401B
• Evaporative Cooling
• Desiccant Cooling
Unacceptable
Substitute
• HCFC-22/HFC
142b/CFC-12
• Hydrocarbon A •
• HCFC-22/HFC
142b/CFC-12
• Hydrocarbon A
The information in this chart should be periodically updated by calling the Stratospheric Ozone Hotline at
1-800-296-1996, or by accessing the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/docs/ozoneAitle6/snap/snap.html.
TABLE 8-3
EXISTING CFC SYSTEM RETROFIT OPTIONS
System Type
Centrifugal
Centrifugal
Reciprocating
Existing System
R11
R12
R12
Acceptable Retrofit
HCFC-123
HFC-134a
R-406A
HFC-134a
R-401-A
R-401B
Unacceptable Retrofit
HCFC-141b
HCFC-22/HFC
142b/CFC-12
HCFC-22/HFC
142b/CFC-12
The information in this chart should be periodically updated by calling the Stratospheric Ozone Hotline at
1-800-296-1996, or by accessing the Internet at http://www.epa.gov/docs/ozone/title6/snap/snap.html.
8-5
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MANUAL
EPA 4844
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Equipment used in the recovery or recycling of refrigerants
must meet the standards under 40 CFR 82.158 and be capable
of achieving the level "of evacuation in the following
tables. Systems equipped with a noncondensables purge
device must not release more than three percent of the
quantity of refrigerant being recycled through
noncondensables purging. The required levels of vacuum for
equipment manufactured on or after November 15, 1993, are
listed in Table 8-5.
TABLE 8-5
REQUIRED LEVELS OF VACUUM FOR EQUIPMENT
MANUFACTURED ON OR AFTER NOVEMBER 15,1993
Type of appliance with which recovery or recycling machine is intended to be used
HCFC-22 - appliances, or isolated component of such appliances, normally
containing less than 200 pounds of refrigerant
HCFC-22 - appliances, or isolated component of such appliances, normally
containing 200 pounds or more of refrigerant
Very high-pressure appliances
Other high-pressure appliances, or isolated component of such appliances,
normally containing less than 200 pounds of refrigerant
Other high-pressure appliances, or isolated component of such appliances,
normally containing 200 pounds or more of refrigerant
Low-pressure appliances
Inches of
Hg vacuum
0
10
0
10
15
25
The required levels of vacuum for equipment manufactured
before November 15, 1993, are listed in Table 8-6.
TABLE 8-6
REQUIRED LEVELS OF VACUUM FOR EQUIPMENT
MANUFACTURED BEFORE NOVEMBER 15,1993
Type of appliance with which recovery or recycling machine is intended to be used
HCFC-22 - appliances, or isolated component of such appliances, normally
containing less than 200 pounds of refrigerant
HCFC-22 - appliances, or isolated component of such appliances, normally
containing 200 pounds or more of refrigerant
Very high-pressure appliances
Other high-pressure appliances, or isolated component of such appliances,
normally containing less than 200 pounds of refrigerant
Other high-pressure appliances, or isolated component of such appliances,
normally containing 200 pounds or more of refrigerant
Low-pressure appliances
Inches of
Hg vacuum
0
4
0
4
4
25
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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(1) Location of Building. The location of a building can affect
the quality of air being introduced into the building
regardless of the design and operation of the HVAC system.
Some of the sources outside the building include pollen,
dust, fungal spores, industrial pollutants, general vehicle
exhaust, contaminants from previous uses of site or current
uses of adjoining site (e.g. landfill, tank farm), and
radon. The location of the building should consider outside
sources of contaminants as well as the siting criteria for
laboratories outlined in Chapter 7, Miscellaneous Occupancy
Features, paragraph 10.a of this Manual.
(2) Building Design. The original design and intended use of
the building can affect the quality of the air. HVAC
systems shall be evaluated to determine if the building HVAC
system is functioning as designed and meets the requirements
established in ASHRAE 62, ANSI/ASHRAE 55 and with the fume
hood information in Chapter 5, Mechanical Systems, paragraph
12 of this Manual. HVAC systems shall also be retested
against the above stated criteria if the building has been
significantly renovated, or if HVAC system equipment has
been replaced.
(3) Design of HVAC System. The HVAC system shall be designed to
maintain temperature and humidity within acceptable ranges
(as outlined in ANSI-ASHRAE 55-1981 or most current
version), supply sufficient amounts of conditioned outside
fresh air (20 CFM per person), distribute appropriate
volumes of air and air movement (as outlined in ANSI/ASHRAE
55-1981 or most current version), and facilitate the
cleaning and maintenance of the HVAC system components as
discussed in Chapter 5, Mechanical Systems, paragraph 11 of
this Manual and as required by state and local building
codes. The location of outdoor air intakes should be away
from contaminant sources (e.g., plumbing vents, cooling
towers, local exhaust stacks, loading docks). Where the
placement of air intakes and pollution sources are in close
proximity, modeling shall be used to confirm adequate
separation to prevent entrainment of contamination into the
facility. Additional ventilation design parameters (e.g.,
stack height, exhaust gas velocity, exhaust and intake
placement) can be found in the latest edition of the ACGIH
Ventilation Manual.
Mixed use buildings should have the HVAC system maintain
appropriate pressure relationships to isolate and control
odors and contaminants (e.g., laboratories, attached parking
garages, print shops, hazardous material storage areas,
smoking lounges, kitchens).
(4) Interior Furnishings. Materials and Equipment. The purchase
of interior furnishings, materials and equipment (e.g.,
carpet, draperies, furniture, paint, office equipment) where
practical shall be of the low-VOC-emitting (e.g.,
formaldehyde) or low-ozone type. Where impracticable,
sufficient time shall be provided to allow initial off-
gassing of VOCs prior to occupancy as discussed in Chapter
5, Mechanical Systems, paragraph 12, and Chapter 4, Interior
Construction and Arrangement, paragraph 3 of this Manual.
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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obligations for significant industrial users must be achieved in
design and installation. The monitoring and sampling requirements
shall be determined for all discharge points and include, at a
minimum, flow rate, pH measurement, and representative
influent/effluent sample collection. Additionally, the facility
shall have a plumbing design configuration to facilitate mapping
of effluent discharge pathways, identification of representative
sampling points, and future plumbing system modifications.
f. Elementary Neutralization Systems. Systems shall be provided for
facilities with corrosive effluents to neutralize and monitor
wastewater discharges to ensure EPA facility conformance with
Clean Water Act pretreatment standards in 40 CFR 403.5(b)(2) and
standards imposed by local POTWs. The system shall include flow
rate measurement, pH sensors, pH adjustment capabilities, and
engineering features to enable the collection of representative
effluent samples. Guidance on collecting representative
wastewater samples for determining effluent quality can be
obtained from the EPA publication. Industrial User Inspection and
Sampling Manual for POTWs, EPA 831-B-94-001, April 1994. The
system engineering controls shall provide the capability to
identify and mitigate unacceptable discharges such as pH excursion
alarms, automatic flow cut-off devices, or other available
controls. System designs shall provide for the routine operation
and maintenance of key components such as agitators, pumps, and pH
probes.
g. Drinking Water. Facilities shall adhere to the requirements
listed below.
(1) Identification of Potable Water Supply. Facility
construction planning should include a determination of the
source of potable water supplies. Facilities that obtain
drinking water from municipal sources have limited
responsibilities for monitoring drinking water, except
initial construction and leasing monitoring. Where drinking
water is derived from on-site wells and is provided to an
average of 25 individuals daily at least 60 days out of the
year, more extensive monitoring is required for the
physical, chemical, biological, and radiological parameters
identified in 40 CFR Parts 141 and 143.
(2) Applicable Monitoring Requirements. The potable water
quality in all newly leased or constructed facilities shall
be tested (optimally a sample drawn from the main supply
line to the facility) to ensure conformance with the
following levels: aluminum (0.2 milligrams per liter
(mg/L), chloride (250 mg/L), color (15 color units), copper
(1.3 mg/L), iron (0.3 mg/L), lead (0.015 mg/L), manganese
(0.05 mg/L), pH (6.5-8.5), silver (0.1 mg/L), sulfate (250
mg/L), total dissolved solids (500 mg/L), and zinc (5 mg/L).
In newly acquired facilities or newly plumbed systems, lead
(action level of 15 ug/L) and copper (action level of 1.3
mg/L) monitoring shall also be performed to ensure
conformance to the action levels specified above in response
to major facility modifications, plumbing system
alterations, or the addition of new water supply fixtures
(e.g., water coolers). Potable water shall be tested for
8-11 U.S. EPA Headquarters Library
Mail code 3201
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington DC 20460
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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(2) More Stringent State Requirements. State requirements may
be more stringent than federal regulations. State agencies
and implementing regulations shall be consulted to help
identify applicable standards and determine if requirements
exceed federal regulations. Appendix D provides a contact
list of state hazardous waste management agencies.
c. Facility Design Requirements for Containers. Requirements for
managing containers are listed below.
(1) Central Hazardous Waste Accumulation (per 40 CFR Part 264.
Suboart I). Sufficient space must be allowed or a
protective barrier installed so that incompatible wastes
(e.g., oxidizers and ignitables) can be separated by a safe
distance or means. Container management areas must have
sufficient capacity to contain at least 10 percent of the
volume of containers or the volume of the largest container
to be accumulated, whichever is greater. The base of the
containment system must be free of cracks or gaps and be
sufficiently impervious to contain leaks or spills until the
collected material is detected and removed. If ignitable or
reactive wastes are generated, the accumulation facility or
area will need to be located at least 50 feet from the
facility's property line.
(2) Emergency Preparedness Ecmipment. Aisle space in hazardous
waste accumulation areas shall be sufficient to allow for
container inspection and for the unobstructed movement of
personnel and emergency equipment. State regulations may
indicate exact distances.
Fire extinguishers and other fire control equipment shall be
available at hazardous waste accumulation points. Water
must be available in sufficient volume and pressure to
facilitate fire-fighting operations, for example sprinklers
and hose streams. In addition, other safety equipment such
as eyewashes and safety showers shall be provided in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 7, Miscellaneous
Occupancy Features, paragraph 11.
Two-way communications, such as radios or telephones, and
alarm systems to initiate emergency response shall be
immediately available to hazardous waste accumulation areas
(see 40 CFR 265.32) .
Requirements imposed by more stringent state hazardous waste
management regulations shall be reviewed and addressed, as
appropriate, to augment these specifications.
(3) OSHA/NFPA Egress Considerations. Central hazardous waste
accumulation areas shall be designed in accordance with
applicable means of egress standards referenced in Chapter
4, Interior Construction and Arrangement, paragraph 6 of
this Manual.
d. Facility Design Reoiiirements for Tanks. The installation of
hazardous waste tanks shall provide for sufficient area for visual
tank inspection and installation of secondary containment, such as
a double-wall or berm. Hazardous waste tanks must be installed in
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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substances shall be documented. A facility layout shall be
prepared identifying, the spill risk areas and probable
dispersion pathways, topography, facility boundaries, all
buildings and structures. The preventive systems, sources
of water for fire fighting, and service and emergency
facilities relative to the spill risk areas shall be clearly
represented in the layout. Major community receptors
related to the spill risk area shall be represented on the
layout or on a separate layout.
(2) Risk Assessment. Spill prevention and control planning
requires performing a risk assessment of the type of
material storage, quantity and type of material, and the
incompatible surrounding storage conditions. It should be
evaluated whether multiple or single releases could occur
and the impact the release would have given the potential
exposure pathways, direction and rate of spill flow, and the
sensitive environmental areas and natural resources
surrounding the storage area and facility. Sensitive
environmental areas may include waterways, wetlands,
recreational and park areas, forests, and wildlife
sanctuaries. Natural resources, such as fish and wildlife,
forest, waterways, agriculture, and groundwater critical to
the local community shall be assessed and the required
measures taken to mitigate risk.
b. ftt?V?Vf*Pround Storage Tanks
(1) Assessment of Aboveoround Storage Tank (AST) Requirements.
Before determining the AST specifications and design,
several AST requirements shall be assessed and considered
including the material type, volume, throughput
requirements, surrounding conditions, and nature of AST
activity. Each of these are discussed below.
(a) Type of Material. The type of material and the
composition of the substance requiring storage must be
assessed. The material may either be petroleum, oil,
hazardous, nonhazardous, or acutely hazardous. The
compatible and non-compatible tank materials to this
substance shall be determined.
(b) Volume and Throughput Requirements. The maximum
storage capacity and the rate of material usage must
be evaluated. The maximum period of time the material
may be needed and the rate of material usage during
emergency situations shall also be known.
(c) Surrounding Conditions. The surrounding conditions of
the tank and associated piping shall be determined,
including maximum and minimum operating and exposure
temperatures; soil type and background levels of
contamination relative to the material to be stored;
proximity to navigable waters, adjacent property, and
buildings; and location of floodplain, utility lines,
and service point. If an AST system is to be
upgraded, the age, current as-built design
specifications, current tank conditions and contents
shall be determined.
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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other barriers; spill diversion ponds; retention
ponds; and sorbent materials. (See memorandum from
Don Clay on the Use of Alternative Secondary
Containment Measures at Facilities Regulated Under the
Oil Pollution Prevention Regulations [40 CFR Part 112
in Appendix GJ).
(b) Drainage Systems. Drainage for diked storage areas
must be restrained by manual open/close valves.
Drainage of undiked areas shall drain into ponds,
lagoons, or catchment basins for oil retention. These
basins shall be designed to avoid flooding. A
diversion system to retain uncontrolled spill shall be
used when there is final discharge of all in-plant
ditches. Treatment units for drainage shall be
designed for gravity flow or back-up pumping systems.
Drainage areas shall prevent oil from reaching
navigable waters in the event of equipment failure or
human error.
(c) Security. Security for tanks should be in accordance
with 40 CFR 112.7(e)(9) including but not limited to
fencing, entrance gates with locks, locking valves and
pump controls, capped and marked transfer points, and
adequate lighting for visibility at night.
(d) Onshore Bulk Storage Tank Systems. These tanks shall
be compatible with the material stored and provide
secondary containment for the entire contents of the
largest tank plus freeboard for precipitation. These
tanks shall include drainage and alternative
containment, high-liquid level alarms and pump,
communication, and liquid level sensors and gauges in
accordance with 40 CFR 112.7(e)(2). Portable tanks
should be positioned to prevent spills from reaching
navigable waters and should not be located in areas
prone to flooding.
(e) Facility Transfer Operations. If a pipeline is
expected to be out of service for an extended period
of time, the terminal connection design of the
transfer point shall be capped and/or blank flanged,
and marked indicating the origin. Pipe supports shall
avoid abrasion and corrosion and allow for expansion
and contraction. Aboveground pipelines shall be
properly located allowing for regular condition and
leak inspections.
c. Underground Storage Tanks
(1) Assessment of Underground Storage Tank (UST) Requirements.
Prior to determining the UST specifications and design,
several UST requirements shall be assessed and considered.
(a) Type of Material. The type of material and the
composition of the substance requiring storage shall
be assessed. Substances stord in USTs may be
petroleum, oil, or hazardous substances. Tank
compatibility with substance(s) to be stored shall be
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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(b) Spill and Overfill Control. Spill prevention
equipment (e.g., spill catchment basin) is required to
prevent the release of product when the transfer hose
is detached from the fill pipe. In addition, overfill
prevention equipment shall be used to accomplish one
or more of the following:
Automatically shut off flow into the tank at 95
percent capacity
Alert the transfer operator at 90 percent
capacity with a high-level alarm or flow gauge
Restrict flow 30 minutes prior to overfilling
Alert the transfer operator with high level
alarm one minute before overfilling
Automatically shut off flow to prevent tank-top
fittings from product exposure.
Spill and overfill prevention is not required if the
tank transfers or filling are restricted to 25 gallons
of product.
(c) Secondary Containment. Secondary containment must be
provided for new petroleum hazardous substance tanks
installed at EPA facilities so that the tank and
piping design requirements are to contain any released
product until detected and removed, thereby preventing
the release of regulated substances to the
environment. Double-walled tanks should be provided
to contain a release from the inner tank and allow for
the detection of the failure of the inner wall.
(d) Release Detection. All existing and new UST systems
must provide a method or combination of methods that
can detect a release from any portion of the tank and
associated underground piping. The release detection
method must be installed, calibrated, operated, and
maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's
instructions and should meet the requirements of 40
CFR 280.43 and 280.44. All release detection methods
must be capable of detecting the leak rate with a
probability of detection (Pd) of 0.95 and a
probability of false alarm (Pfa) of 0.05. Tanks with
a volume capacity of 550 gallons or less may rely upon
manual tank gauging for release detection.
By December 22, 1998, all existing hazardous substance
UST systems must meet the release detection
requirement for new hazardous substance systems in 40
CFR 280.42(b). Release detection for petroleum and
existing hazardous substance USTs shall be provided as
specified in 40 CFR 280.40 through 280.42.
Release detection for petroleum underground piping
must be in accordance with 40 CFR 280.41(b) and the
release detection methods requirements of 40 CFR
280.43 and 280.44. Petroleum suction piping must be
capable of detecting a 0.2 gallon per hour or 150
gallon per month leak rate with a 0.95 Pd or 0.05 Pfa.
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accordance with section 2-4.6 of NFPA 30, including
but not limited to those described below.
Connections for all tank openings and manual
gauging openings should be liquid tight.
Fill and discharge lines shall enter on through
the top and fill lines shall be sloped toward
the tank. Fill pipes that enter through the top
shall terminate within 6 inches of the tank
bottom.
For Class I liquid tanks having a capacity
greater than 1000 gallons shall be equipped with
a tight fill device for connecting the fill hose
to the tank.
Valve, openings, and connection requirements for
tanks equipped with vapor recovery shall be
designed in accordance with Section 2-4.6 of
NFPA and any other applicable requirements.
(h) Installation and Certification. All tanks and piping
must be properly installed and tested in accordance
with the manufacturers instructions. The following
installation procedures may be used:
API Publication 1615, Installation of
Underground Petroleum Storage System
PEI Publication RP100, Recommended Practices for
Installation of Underground Liquid Storage
Systems
ANSI Standard B31.4, Liquid Petroleum
Transportation Piping System
The following testing, inspection, or certification
methods as per 40 CFR 280.20(d) and (e) should be used
to demonstrate the proper installation:
The installer shall be certified by the tank and
piping manufacturers or by the implementing
agency
The installation shall be inspected and
certified by a registered professional engineer
with education and experience in UST system
installation or inspected and approved by the
implementing agency
The manufacturer's installation instructions
(e.g., tank tightness tests, verification of
fitting and tank integrity, ventilation of tank
position and anchors, validating cathodic
protection) has been performed and completed.
Additional guidance on UST installation includes
the following videos: 1) Underground Storage
Tanks: Rest in Peace (Publication No. EPA 501-V-
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(2) Fluorescent Lipht Ballasts. Light ballasts used within
fluorescent light assemblies may contain PCBs if
manufactured prior to 1978. Such equipment must be reviewed
for PCB-content upon removal for routine maintenance or as a
part of formal energy conservation upgrades (e.g.. Green
Lights upgrade projects). PCB concentration information can
generally be obtained by contacting the ballast manufacturer
and providing the equipment lot and serial number.
Concurrently, manufacturers of fluorescent lights may also
be contacted to determine whether the mercury content
possibly triggers hazardous waste regulatory requirements.
Ballasts found to contain PCBs shall be managed in
accordance with the joint AEREB/SHEMD Memorandum (June 15,
1995) on managing light fixture wastes, with preference on
the use of PCB ballast recycling and recovery facilities.
(See memorandum on Lighting Fixture Disposal Guidance and
Strategy in Appendix G.)
(3) PCB Storage. Areas used to store PCBs prior to disposal or
reuse must meet the following criteria:
Located above the 100-year floodplain
Protected by roof and walls to prevent the
infiltration of rainwater or runoff of PCB-
contaminated materials
Provided smooth, impervious flooring that does not
have drains, cracks, or expansion joints
Continuous curbing of a minimum six-inch height
sufficient to contain at least 25 percent of the
volume of containers being stored
Posted on the outside entrance of the facility or area
with the official PCB mark in 40 CFR 761.45.
e. Lead. New facility construction, modification and renovation
actions shall not use lead-based paints. Removal of lead-based
paints shall be in accordance with the EPA Program for the
Management of Lead-Based Paint at EPA Facilities. See related
discussion in paragraph 4-3 of this Manual.
f. Radon. Title II of the Toxic Substances Control Act, as amended
by the Indoor Radon Abatement Act, provides for the monitoring of
federal facility occupancies to determine radon concentrations.
Radon concentrations identified above the EPA action level of 4
pCi/L should be addressed through appropriate engineering and
administrative controls. Radon in drinking water supplies,
measured as combined Radium-226 and Radium-228, shall not exceed 5
pCi/L.
g. Asbestos. Asbestos operations and maintenance activities shall be
performed in accordance with the EPA Policy and Program for the
Management of Asbestos-Containing Building Materials at EPA
Facilities.
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Paints certified for such use are Chugoku Marine Paints, A.S.
Seaflo Z-100LE; Sigma Coatings, 7293 Pilot LL Antifouling; and
International Paints, Intersmooth Hisol SPC-AF. Updates and
revisions to the list of certified paint manufacturers can be
obtained by contacting the EPA Office of Pesticide Programs,
Antimicrobial Program Branch at (703) 305-6661. Further, paints
containing mercury shall not be used for interior finishes as they
are solely intended for exterior, antifoulant applications.
8. RADIOACTIVE MATERIALS MANAGEMENT
a. General Design Considerations. Special considerations about where
radioactive material will be used is addressed in the Health
Physics Manual of Good Practices for Reducing Radiation Exposure
to Levels that are As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA),
Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL-6577). In addition, regulations
and associated guidance that will apply to the facility when it
operates should be consulted. Design information that will be
required to be provided in license or permit applications should
be reviewed to identify aspects of the design that are of
particular interest to the NRC or Agreement State, as appropriate.
Radioactive materials management activities on federal property
are subject to primarily NRC oversight, whereas activities at
nonfederal job sites are also subject to Agreement State
standards. Consideration should also be given to configuring
sample receiving areas to accommodate the equipment to screen
unknown samples for radiation contamination, as appropriate for
the scope of facility operations. For a typical EPA laboratory
facility this information is available in NRC Regulatory Guide
10.7, Guide for the Preparation of Applications for License for
Laboratory and Industrial Use of Small Quantities of Byproduct
Material.
b. Control and Monitoring of Airborne Radionuclides. Extensive
guidance on design of systems for controlling airborne radioactive
material, both in the workplace and in emissions from a facility,
is available in the Nuclear Air Cleaning Handbook, Energy Research
and Development Administration (ERDA) 76-21, and in Nuclear Power
Plant Air-Cleaning Units and Components, ANSI/ASME N509.
c. Workplace Control and Monitoring. NRC requires the use of
engineered controls (e.g., radioisotope fume hoods, glove boxes)
as the primary means for protecting workers from exposure to
airborne contaminants, including radioactive materials. Sealed
sources generally require no special precautions. For the low
concentrations of radioactive materials in powder or liquid form
typically used at EPA facilities, the confinement afforded by a
radioisotope laboratory fume hood will generally provide adequate
control (see also paragraph 5-13 of this Manual for additional
guidance). In general, air flow should always be from clean to
contaminated areas, and ductwork and other components should
include design features that minimize the potential for internal
accumulation of radioactive materials as well as to facilitate
decontamination. In some situations, the Radiation Safety Officer
(RSO) may determine that radioactive materials used by the
facility are of low enough radioactivity to be used safely within
a conventional laboratory fume hood.
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
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(3) Access Control and Sicmaae. NRC regulations contain
requirements for "restricted areas." Restrictive areas are
defined as any area that the facility licensee limits access
to for purposes of protecting individuals against undue
risks from exposure to radiation or radioactive materials.
Such areas, including waste storage facilities, shall be
posted in accordance with the radiation caution signs
specified in 10 CFR Part 20.1901 through 20.1903.
Activities with radioactive material shall be performed
within an area where physical access can be controlled.
Space may be required at the egress to the restricted area
to facilitate monitoring of personnel or items for
radioactive contamination. Additionally, more stringent
regulatory requirements for controlling access to smaller
areas within the restricted area may apply depending on the
radiation levels and quantities and form of radioactive
material. High hazard facilities with containment provided
within the laboratory shall consider special engineering
design considerations such as an airlock with interlocked
doors, or special air monitoring and warning systems.
Lockable cabinets are necessary for storing radioactive
materials that are not in use. Design engineers must
consult with individuals familiar with both the intended use
of the facility and the applicable regulatory requirements
to ensure that appropriate physical access controls are
included in the design.
(4) Shielding. Special shielding may be required to limit the
radiation dose rates within the restricted area to levels
consistent with EPA administrative limits for occupational
radiation exposure, and outside of the restricted area to
levels specified in NRC regulations. Proper shield design
requires knowledge of the maximum inventory of each isotope
of radioactive material and where and how they will be used
or stored in the facility. High-energy electronic radiation
generating devices may also require shielding. Detailed
guidance on radiation shielding design is available in ANSI
N43.3, American National Standard for General Radiation
Safety Installations Using Non-Medical X-ray and Sealed
Gamma Ray Sources for Energies up to 10 MeV.
(5) Contamination Control. Facilities where unsealed
radioactive sources or material will be used should include
design features to minimize the potential for contamination
of surfaces with radioactive material, and to facilitate
decontamination. Construction materials and methods should
be specified that minimize cracks, crevices, and porous
materials that can readily accumulate contamination. Work
surfaces should be sealed, and seamless flooring rather than
tiles should be considered. The standards contained in ANSI
N512, Protective Coatings for Nuclear Applications, shall be
considered.
(6) Special Requirements for Mixed Wastes. Mixed low-level
radioactive waste is regulated under both the NRC
regulations and hazardous waste management standards
promulgated pursuant to the Resource Conservation and
.Recovery Act (RCRA). Therefore, the storage and management
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FIGURE 8-1
OVERVIEW OF NEPA PROCESS
TieM Analysis:
Categorical --
Exclusion
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Extending the useful life of a building, equipment, or system can
reduce environmental impacts by saving resources and generating
less waste over time. Some of these attributes and their benefits
are listed in Table 8-7.
TABLE 8-7
EXAMPLES OF DESIGN FOR THE ENVIRONMENT BENEFITS
Attribute
Durability
Adaptability
Reliability
Serviceability
Benefit
Increase building's, equipments, or system's ability to withstand
wear, stress, and environmental degradation.
Reduce potential for the facility, equipment, or system to become
obsolete by designing to facilitate updating or to perform multiple
services.
Maximize equipment and system reliability to extend lifetime and
preclude health and safety problems.
Increase maintainability and repairability of equipment and
systems to preclude early retirement and reduce environmental
impacts.
According to Executive Order 2873, the above attributes should be
considered during all aspects of facility management, from design
through its active life to closure. Accordingly, facility design
and construction actions shall consider the following pollution
prevention opportunities, where practicable:
(I) Use of materials such as fly ash-containing concrete and
cement (Section 401(b) of Executive Order 12873)
(2) Uses of finishes and coatings with low volatile organic
content
(3) Structural fiberboard and laminated paperboard containing
recovered materials (Section 401(b) of Executive Order
12873)
(4)
Modifications to paint spraying and thinning techniques
(5) Use of environmentally preferred insulations, including
those containing recovered materials (Section 401(b) of
Executive Order 12873).
Sources for other design and construction processes and materials
include the GSA Environmental Products Guide (Internet address is
http://www.gsa.gov), Department of Defense (DoD) Green Products
Catalogue, and EPA Design for the Environment fact sheets.
In addition, repair and maintenance activities encompass
opportunities for pollution prevention, including:
(1) Substitution of hazardous cleaning solvents with aqueous or
less hazardous products
•8-31
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APPENDIX A - LIST OF STANDARDS AND REFERENCES
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MANUAL 4/96
APPENDIX A - LIST OF STANDARDS AND REFERENCES
This appendix lists the standards and references used in this Manual.
Where possible, contact information is provided.
• Standards of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) (arranged
alphabetically)
Elevators, Dumbwaiters, Escalators and Moving Walks (ANSI A17.1)
Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment (ANSI Z358.1)
Fundamentals Governing the Design and Operation of Local Exhaust Systems
(ANSI 29.2)
General Radiation Safety Installations Using Non-Medical X-ray and
Sealed Gamma Ray Sources for Energies up to 10 MeV (ANSI N43.3) .
- Laboratory Ventilation (ANSI/AIHI Z9.5)
Liquid Petroleum Transporation Piping System (ANSI B31.4)
Method of Testing Performance of Laboratory Fume Hoods (ANSI/ASHRAE 110)
Nuclear Power Plant Air Cleaning Units and Components (ANSI/ASME N509)
Protective Coatings for Nuclear Applications (ANSI N512)
Providing Accessibility and Usability for Physically Handicapped People
(ANSI A117.1)
Safety Code for Mechanical Refrigeration (ANSI/ASHRAE 15)
Thermal Environmental Conditions for Human Occupancy (ANSI/ASHRAE 55)
- Ventilation for Acceptable Indoor Air Quality (ANSI/ASHRAE 62)
The above resources ANSI
can be obtained by Attn: Customer Service
contacting: 11 West 42nd Street
New York, NY 10036
(212) 642-4900 http://www.ansi.org/catalog.html
ASHRAE
1791 Tullie Circle, NE
Atlanta, GA 30329-2305
(404) 636-8400
NFPA
1 Battery March Park,
P.O. Box 9101
Quincy, MA 02269-9101
(617) 770-3000 http://www.wpt.edu/nfpe/nfpa.html
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Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals (NFPA 45)
- National Fuel Gas Code (NFPA 54)
- Compressed and Liquefied Gases in Portable Cylinders (NFPA 55)
Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases (NFPA 58)
Storage and Handling of Liquefied Natural Gas (NFPA 59A)
- National Electrical Code (NEC) (NFPA 70)
- National Fire Alarm Code (NFPA 72)
- Protection of Electronic Computer/Data Processing Equipment (NFPA 75)
Fire Doors and Windows (NFPA 80)
Installation of Air-Conditioning and Ventilating Systems (NFPA 90A)
Installation of Exhaust Systems for Air Conveyance of Materials
(NFPA 91)
Smoke Control Systems (NFPA 92A)
Ventilation Control and Fire Protection of Commercial Cooking Operations
(NFPA 96)
- Life Safety Code (NFPA 101)
Emergency and Standby Power Systems (NFPA 110)
- Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems (NFPA 111)
- Water Supplies for Suburban and Rural Firefighting (NFPA 123)
Standard on Types of Building Construction (NFPA 220)
Standard for Fire Walls and Fire Barriers (NFPA 221)
Water Cooling Towers (NFPA 214)
Standard for General Storage (NFPA 231)
Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Building Construction and Materials
(ASTM E 119/NFPA 251)
- Standard Methods of Fire Tests of Door Assemblies (ASTM E 152/NFPA 252)
Test for Critical Radiant Flux of Floor Covering Systems Using a Radiant
Heat Source (NFPA 253)
Standard Method of Fire Tests for Flame Resistant Textiles and Films
(NFPA 701)
- Lightning Protection Code (NFPA 780)
Clean Agent Fire Extinguishing Systems (NFPA 2001)
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40 CFR Part 262, Standards Applicable to Generators of Hazardous Waste
40 CFR Part 263, Standards Applicable to Transporters of Hazardous Waste
• 40 CFR Part 264, Standards for Owners and Operators of Hazardous Waste
Treatment
• 40 CFR Part 265, Interim Status Standards for Owners and Operators of
Hazardous Waste
• 40 CFR Part 266, Standards for the Management of Specific Hazardous Wastes
and Specific Types of Hazardous Waste Management Facilities
• 40 CFR Part 267, Interim Standards for Owners and Operators of New
Hazardous Waste Land Disposal Facilities
• 40 CFR Part 268, Land Disposal Restrictions
• 40 CFR Part 269, N/A
• 40 CFR Part 270, EPA Administered Permit Programs: The Hazardous Waste
Permit Program
• 40 CFR Part 271, Requirements for Authorization of State Hazardous Waste
Programs
• 40 CFR Part 272, Approved State Hazardous Waste Management Programs
40 CFR Part 273, Standards for Universal Waste Management
40 CFR Part 279, Standards for the Management of Used Oil
• 40 CFR Part 280, Technical Standards and Corrective Action Requirements for
Owners and Operators of Underground Storage Tanks
• 40 CFR 403.5(b)(2), National Pretreatment Standards: Prohibited Discharges.
40 CFR Part 406, Grain Mills Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 407, Canned and Preserved Fruits and Vegetables Processing
Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 408, Canned and Preserved Seafood Processing Point Source
Category
• 40 CFR Part 409, Sugar Processing Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 410, Textile Mills Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 411, Cement Manufacturing Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 412, Feedlots Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 413, Electroplating Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 414, Organic Chemicals, Plastics, and Synthetic Fibers
• 40 CFR Part 415, Inorganic Chemicals Manufacturing Point Source Category
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• 40 CFR Part 445, N/A
• 40 CFR Part 446, Paint Formulating Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 447, Ink Formulating Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Parts 448 - 453, N/A
• 40 CFR Part 454, Gum and Wood Chemicals Manufacturing Point Source Category
40 CFR Part 455, Pesticide Chemicals
• 40 CFR Part 456, N/A
• 40 CFR Part 457, Explosives Manufacturing Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 458, Carbon Black Manufacturing Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 459, Photographic Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 460, Hospital Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 461, Battery Manufacturing Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 462, N/A
• 40 CFR Part 4,63, Plastics Molding and Forming Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 464, Metal Molding and Casting Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 465, Coil Coating Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 466, Porcelain Enameling Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 467, Aluminum Forming Point Source Category
40 CFR Part 468, Copper Forming Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 469, Electrical and Electronic Components Point Source Category
• 40 CFR Part 470, N/A
• 40 CFR Part 471, Nonferrous Metals Forming and Metal Powders Point Source
Category
40 CFR Part 761, Polychlorinated Biphenyls Manufacturing, Processing,
Distribution in Commerce, and Use Prohibitions
40 CFR Part 1500, Purpose, Policy, and Mandate
40 CFR Part 1501, NEPA and Agency Planning
• 40 CFR Part 1502, Environmental Impact Statement
• 40 CFR Part 1503, Commenting
• 40 CFR Part 1504, Predecision Referrals to the Council of Proposed
Federal Actions Determined to Be Environmentally Unsatisfactory
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• Factory Mutual Engineering Loss Prevention Data Sheet 5-4, Transformers
• Guide for the Preparation of Applications for License for Laboratory and
Industrial Use of Small Quantities of Byproduct Material, NRC Regulatory
Guide 10.7
• Guidance for Controlling Asbestos-Containing Materials in Buildings, EPA
Publication #560/5-85-024, 1985
• Handbook of Compressed Gases, Compressed Gas Association, Inc.
• Health Physics Manual of Good Practices for Reducing Radiation Exposure to
Levels that Are As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA), Pacific Northwest
Laboratory (PNL-6577)
• Industrial C7ser Inspection and Sampling Manual for POTWs, EPA 831-B-94-001,
April 1994
• Industrial Ventilation, A Manual of Recommended Practice, American
Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH)
• Installation of Underground Petroleum Storage System, API Publication 1615
Lead in School Drinking Water, EPA 57019-89-001, January 1989
• Managing Asbestos in Place, A Building Owners Guide to Operations and
Maintenance Programs for Asbestos Containing Materials, EPA Publication
#20T-2003, 1990
• NEPA Review Procedures for EPA Facilities
• Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Regulatory Guide 10.7, Guide for the
Preparation of Applications for License for Laboratory and Industrial Use
of Small Quantities of Byproduct Materials
• Nuclear Air Cleaning Handbook, Energy Research and Development
Administration 76-21
• Policy and Program for the Management of Asbestos-Containing Building
Materials at EPA Facilities (July 1994)
• Prudent Practices in the Laboratory: Handling and Disposal of Chemicals,
National Research Council, 1995
• .Recommended Practices for Installation of Underground Liquid Storage
Systems, PEI Publication 'RP100
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APPENDIX B - GLOSSARY
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APPENDIX B - GLOSSARY
Unless otherwise noted, the following definitions were developed using
Webster's Collegiate Dictionary, 10th edition, NFPA Codes, BOCA National
Building Code, or other miscellaneous sources.
Air foil
Bus Duct or
Busway
Blind Stand
Coded Alarm
System
Contaminant
Generation
Curtain Wall
Ductility
Eddies
Elevator Capture
Elevator
Recall
Etiological
Organisms
Exit
Exit Access
Fire Area
A curved shape used at the sill corners to reduce the
production of turbulence as air flows past the object.
A grounded metal enclosure containing factory mounted,
bare or insulated conductors, which are usually copper
or aluminum bars, rods, or tubes.
A convenience shop located in an office building which
retails snacks and beverages with no cooking or food
preparation.
A fire alarm system in which the alarm indicating
devices are sounded intermittently with a prescribed
pattern. The intermittent pattern is associated with
an alarm device or area of the building.
A laboratory operation or other event which results in
the emission of potentially hazardous materials into
the laboratory environment.
A nonbearing enclosure wall not supported at each
story. (BOCA)
Ability of a material to be flexible or shaped into a
new form. As it related to cryogenics, the ability of
a material under the expected operating temperatures to
resist fracturing.
A circular or contrary air current which contributes to
reduced capture efficiency of a laboratory fume hood.
See Elevator Recall.
The provision which automatically returns an elevator
or elevators to a predesignated floor, typically the
ground floor, thus taking them out of service, or
permitting fire fighters to override the controls
manually and use the elevators as necessary.
An organism that potentially causes a disease or
abnormal condition.
That portion of a means of egress that is separated
from other spaces of a building to provide an
appropriate level of protection.
That portion of a means of egress that leads to an
exit.
The floor area enclosed and bounded by fire walls, fire
separation assemblies or exterior walls of a building
to restrict the spread of fire.
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Monumental Stairs
Noncombustible
Construction
Off-gassing
One-Pass Air
On/Off Sprinklers
Open Plan Office
Panel Wall
Phase to Phase
Proscenium
Sash
Set-back
Smoke Development
Rating
Spandrel Wall
Supervisory
Condition
Walking Surface
Wide, often unenclosed, stairs which are designed more
for architectural aesthetics than exit capacity. These
are often found in assembly occupancies or historic
structures.
Construction which uses materials that will not ignite,
burn, support combustion, or release flammable vapors,
when subjected to fire or heat.
The release of vapors (typically volatile organic
compounds) to the environment from interior furnishing
or finishes.
Air from outside the building which is conditioned and
introduced into the work space, then exhausted back to
the outside of the building. There is no re-
circulation of air within the building.
A sprinkler head which opens and closes automatically
as heat conditions dictate.
A large floor area which is subdivided into cubicles
using office furniture and partitions which do not
extend from floor to ceiling. (Adapted from NFPA
Inspection Manual)
A nonbearing wall supported by each story on a skeleton
frame. Also referred to as a skeleton wall.
A method to define the voltage when measured between
two different alternating current electrical lines
supplied by the same generation or supply source. The
phases in a three-phase service are 120 degrees apart.
The wall that separates the stage from an auditorium or
the stage area in front of a curtain.
The glass and frame which can be raised opened and
closed installed on the front of a laboratory fume
hood.
The recjuired physical distance of a building with
respect to a property line or other building.
An index used to compare the density of smoke generated
by a material.
That portion of a panel wall above the head of an
exterior window or door.
A signal at the fire alarm panel which indicates the
need for corrective or preventive action with regards
to the fire or life safety features of the facility.
Any floor or other surface available for use (as in
walking on or over) by occupants during the normal
course of performing duties associated with their job.
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APPENDIX C - ROOM DATA SHEETS
-------
CMPSOrOOCDB
Ui;
I
6' FUME
HOOD
EMERGENCY SHOWER/
EYEWASH «
Figure 1
ROOM DATA SHEET
1 MODULE / 1 FUME HOOD
* unit to be consistently located
inside or immediately outside the
door of the laboratory work area.
-------
caws or ooems
III N«r
6' FUME
HOOD
6' FUME
HOOD
1
EMERGENCY SHOWER/
EYEWASH • —
Figure 3
ROOM DATA SHEET
2 MODULES / 2 FUME HOODS
* unit to be consistently located
inside or immediately outside the
door of the laboratory work area.
I
-------
CBHP5 Or OCKD6
III Mwr
r
61 FUME
HOOD
6' FUME
HOOD
EMERGENCY SHOWER/
EYEWASH «
Figure 5
ROOM DATA SHEET
2 MODULES / 2 FUME HOODS
* unit to be consistently locoted
inside or immediotely outside the
door of the loborotory work orea.
-------
CMPS V OOttB
6' FUME
HOOD
6' FUME
HOOD
T MIN
J
6' FUME
HOOD
EMERGENCY SHOWER/
EYEWASH *
Figure 7
ROOM DATA SHEET
3 MODULES / 3 FUME HOODS
* unit to be consistently located
inside or immediately outside the
door of the laboratory work area.
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APPENDIX D - LIST OF STATE ENVIRONMENTAL CONTACTS
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND
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APPENDIX_J3 - LIST OF STATE ENVIRONMENTAL CONTACTS
STATE
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
STATE AGENCIES
Air Management
(205)271-7861
(907)485-5100
(602) 207-2300
(501)562-7444
(916) 322-5840
(303) 893-6091
(203) 566-5524
(302) 739-4403
(202) 727-7395
(904)488-1344
(404) 363-7000
(808) 586-4400
(208) 334-5913
(217)782-7326
(317)232-8384
(913)296-1500
(502) 564-3382
(504)756-0219
(207) 289-2437
(410)631-3255
(617)292-5593
(517) 373-7023
(612) 296-7331
(601)961-5171
(314)751-4817
(406) 444-3454
(402)471-2189
(702) 687-4670
(603)271-1370
(609)292-6710
(505) 827-0070
Hazardous Waste
Management
(205) 271-7737
(907)465-5150
(602) 207-2300
(501)570-2858
(916)445-4171
(303) 427-6200
(203) 566-5712
(302) 739-3689
(202) 727-7395
(904) 488-0300
(404) 656-2833
(808) 586-4424
(208) 334-5879
(217) 333-8941
(317)232-4535
(913) 296-1590
(502) 564-6718
(504) 765-0355
(207) 289-2651
(410)631-3304
(617) 292-5961
(517)373-2730
(612) 297-8498
(801)961-5171
(314)751-3176
(406) 444-2821
(402)471-4217
(702) 687-4670
(603)271-2946
(609) 633-1408
(505) 827-4308
Underground
Storage Tanks
(205) 271-7700
(907) 465-5200
(602)542-1024
(501) 562-7444
(916)227-4303
(303) 427-6200
(203) 566-4630
(302) 323-4588
(202)404-1167
(904) 488-3935
(404) 362-2687
(808)586-4225
(208) 334-5845
(217)762-6760*
(217) 785-5878**
(317) 232-4535
(913) 296-1660
(502)564-3410
(504) 765-0223
(207) 289-2651
(410)631-3442
(617)566-4500
(517)373-8168
(612) 297-8679
(601)961-5171
(314)751-1300
(406) 444-2821
(402) 471-4230
(702) 687-5872
(603)271-2986
(609)984-3156
(505)827-0188
Water
Management
(205)271-7826
(907) 465-5301
(602) 207-2300
(501)562-7444
(916) 857-0687
(303) 296-5780
(203) 566-3245
(302) 739-4793
(202) 727-7395
(904) 488-3601
(404) 656-4708
(808) 637-5078
(208) 334-5855
(217)782-3397
(317)243-5012
(913)296-1535
(502)564-3410
(504) 765-0634
(207) 289-3901
(410)631-3587
(617)292-5673
(517)373-1949
(612) 296-7202
(601)961-5171
(314)751-1300
(406) 444-2406
(402)471-2541
(702) 687-4670
(603)271-3503
(609)984-3156
(505) 827-0187
* Underground Storage Tank Cleanups (EPA) " Underground Storage Tanks (Fire Marshall)
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APPENDIX E - LIST OF CLASS I AND CLASS II SUBSTANCES
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APPENDIX E - LIST OF CLASS I AND CLASS II SUBSTANCES
(a) LIST OF CLASS I SUBSTANCES.
Within 60 days after enactment of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990,
the Administrator shall publish an initial list of Class I substances,
which list shall contain the following substances:
Group I chlorofluorocarbon-11 (CFC-11)
chlorofluorocarbon-12 (CFC-12)
chlorofluorocarbon-113 (CFC-113)
chlorofluorocarbon-114 (CFC-114)
chlorofluorocarbon-115 (CFC-115)
Group II halon-1211
halon-1301
halon-2402
Group III chlorofluorocarbon-13 (CFC-13)
chlorofluorocarbon-111 (CFC-111)
chlorofluorocarbon-112 (CFC-112)
chlorofluorocarbon-211 (CFC-211)
chlorofluorocarbon-212 (CFC-212)
chlorofluorocarbon-213 (CFC-213)
chlorofluorocarbon-214 (CFC-214)
chlorofluorocarbon-215 (CFC-215)
chlorofluorocarbon-216 (CFC-216)
chlorofluorocarbon-217 (CFC-217)
Group IV carbon tetrachloride
Group V methyl chloroform
The initial list under this subsection shall also include the isomers of
the substances listed above, other than 1,1,2-trichloroethane (an isomer
of methyl chloroform). Pursuant to subsection (c), the Administrator
shall add to the list of Class I substances any other substance that the
Administrator finds causes or contributes significantly to harmful
effects on the stratospheric ozone layer. The Administrator shall,
pursuant to subsection (c), add to such list all substances that the
Administrator determines have an ozone depletion potential of 0.2 or
greater.
(b) LIST OF CLASS II SUBSTANCES.
Simultaneously with publication of the initial list of Class I
substances, the Administrator shall publish an initial list of Class II
substances, which shall contain the following substances:
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-21 (HCFC-21)
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-22 (HCFC-22)
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-31 (HCFC-31)
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-121 (HCFC-121)
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-122 (HCFC-122)
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-123 (HCFC-123)
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-124 (HCFC-124)
hydrochlorofluorocarbon-131 (HCFC-131)
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the Administrator shall add, by rule, (or make a final
determination not to add) such substance to such list within I
year after receiving such petition. Any petition under this
paragraph shall include a showing by the petitioner that there are
data on the substance adequate to support the petition. If the
Administrator determines that information on the substance is not
sufficient to make a determination under this paragraph, the
Administrator shall use any authority available to the
Administrator, under any law administered by the Administrator, to
acquire such information.
(4) Only a Class II substance which is added to the list of Class I
substances may be removed from the list of Class II substances. No
substance referred to in subsection (a), including methyl
chloroform, may be removed from the list of Class I substances.
(d) NEW LISTED SUBSTANCES.
In the case of any substance added to the list of Class I or Class II
substances after publication of the initial list of such substances
under this section, the Administrator may extend any schedule or
compliance deadline contained in section 604 or 605 to a later date than
specified in such sections if such schedule or deadline is unattainable,
considering when such substance is added to the list. No extension
under this subsection may extend the date for termination of production
of any Class I substance to a date more than seven years after January 1
of the year after the year in which the substance is added to the list
•of Class I substances. No extension under this subsection may extend
the date for termination of production of any Class II substance to a
date more than 10 years after January 1 of the year after the year in
which the substance is added to the list of Class II substances.
(e) OZONE-DEPLETION AND GLOBAL WARMING POTENTIAL.
Simultaneously with publication of the lists under this section and
simultaneously with any addition to either of such lists, the
Administrator shall assign to each listed substance a numerical value
representing the substance's ozone-depletion potential. In addition,
the Administrator shall publish the chlorine and bromine loading
potential and the atmospheric lifetime of each listed substance. One
year after enactment of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990 (one year
after the addition of a substance to either of such lists in the case of
a substance added after the publication of the initial lists of such
substances), and after notice and opportunity for public comment, the
Administrator shall publish the global warming potential of each listed
substance. The preceding sentence shall not be construed to be the basis
of any additional regulation under this Act. In the case of the
substances referred to in table 1, the ozone-depletion potential shall
be as specified in table 1, unless the Administrator adjusts the
substance's ozone-depletion potential based on criteria referred to in
section 601 (10) :
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APPENDIX F - LIST OF ACRONYMS
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APPENDIX F - LIST OF ACRONYMS
ACGIH American Conference of Government Industrial Hygienists
ACM Asbestos-Containing Materials
ADA Americans with Disabilities Act
AEREB Architecture Engineering and Real Estate Branch
AI As Installed
AIHA American Industrial Hygiene Association
ALARA As Low As Reasonably Achievable
AM As Manufactured
AMCA Air Movement and Control Association
ANSI American National Standards Institute
ARI American Refrigeration Institute
ASHRAE American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning
Engineers, Inc.
AST Aboveground Storage Tanks
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
AU As Used (Note: Not used in document when searched)
BACT Best Available Control Technology
BAT Best Available Technology
Btu British Thermal Units
BOCA Building Officials and Code Administrators International, Inc.
CEQ Council on Environmental Quality
CF3Br a halogenated hydrocarbon
CFCs Chlorofluorocarbons
CFM Cubic Feet Per Minute
CFR Code of Federal Regulations
CPSC Consumer Product Safety Commission
CX Categorical Exclusion
DoD Department of Defense
DOT Department of Transportation
EA Environmental Assessment
EIS Environmental Impact Statement
EPA Environmental Protection Agency
EPO Emergency Power Off
ERDA Energy Research and Development Administration
FC Flow Control
FM Factory Mutual
FMSD Facilities Management and Services Division
FNSI Finding of No Significant Impact
F-l
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FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MANUAL
EPA 4844
4/96
SF Standard Form
SFO Solicitation for Offers
SHEMD Safety, Health, and Environmental Management Division
SHEMP Safety, Health, and Environmental Management Program
SNAP Significant New Alternatives Policy
SPCC Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure Plan
TBT Tributyltin
UFAS Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards
UL Underwriters Laboratory, Incorporated
UBC Uniform Building Code
UPS Uninterruptible Power Supply
UST Underground Storage Tank
VAV Variable Air Volume
VOCs Volatile Organic Compounds
F-3
-------
FACILITY SAFETY, HEALTH AND EPA 4844
ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT MANUAL 4/96
APPENDIX G - MEMORANDUMS
-------
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20460
JUN I 5 1995
—— OFFICE OF
ADMINISTRATION
AND RESOURCES
MANAGEMENT
MEMORANDUM
SUBJECT: Lighting Fixture Disposal Guidance and Strategy
•gutt^
jfr Mellen,
FROM: Luthef Mellen, Chief
r,_Planning and Architecture Branch
TechHical Assistance and Evaluation Branch
TO: Distribution
.As a participant in the Green Lights Program, EPA is
committed to conserving natural resources through the use of
energy-efficient lighting. However, light fixture (i.e., lamps
and light ballasts) disposal during relamping operations and
routine maintenance poses unique challenges for EPA facilities
due to the potential environmental .impact from these fixtures and
potential liability under existing environmental statutes. An
awareness and understanding of the disposal requirements for
light fixture components containing mercury, lead, or
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) is critical as EPA facilities
upgrade their lighting; systems to new, more energy-efficient
lighting systems. To this end, FMSD and SHEHD are jointly
issuing guidance to assist EPA facility managers with waste
resulting from lighting system upgrades.
This guidance is intended to encourage energy-efficient
lighting upgrades while minimizing any potential impacts on the
environment and upholding the Agency's, posit ion as a leader in
developing environmental management solutions..
Fluorescent and HID Lamps
A relatively high percentage of fluorescent' and HID lamps
contain hazardous constituents that are subject to
identification, storage, treatment, and disposal requirements
under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The
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the ballasts were manufactured with PCB-containing dielectric
fluid in small capacitors. Light ballasts containing PCBs in
small capacitors that are leaking have specified disposal
requirements under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). EPA
generally considers light ballasts with fluid filled capacitors
manufactured before .1979 as containing PCBs. The TSCA . •
regulations apply different disposal requirements for large
capacitors containing more than three pounds of dielectric fluid
and small capacitors with less than three pounds of dielectric
fluid. Small capacitors, such as light ballasts, may be disposed
in a RCRA Subtitle D solid waste landfill due to a regulatory
exemption for this type of equipment.1 However, light ballasts
with leaking capacitors containing any amount of PCBs are
regulated under TSCA and must be incinerated in a TSCA-approved
incinerator.l
Other regulatory considerations for disposing of light
ballasts are reporting requirements for releases into the
environment under CERCLA. Disposal of more than one pound of
PCBs in a RCRA Subtitle D solid waste landfill or a TSCA-
permitted landfill requires release reporting by the facility
owner or operator to the National Response Center according to 40
CFR §302.6.
Guidance. When multiple PCS-containing capacitors are
disposed of together and exceed the three-pound threshold, the
capacitors should be disposed of in a TSCA-regulated
incinerator2 (February 19, 1986 memorandum from Suzanne
Rudzinski to Mark Fennel).3 Therefore, operations generating
a significant quantity td^e.,. 15 or more) •of- light ballasts
should recycle the light ballasts, which includes metals
reclamation and disposal of PCB materials in a TSCA-approved
incinerator. Any leaking light ballast containing PCBs also
must be disposed of in a TSCA-approved incinerator1.
Management Strategy
Based on the aforementioned guidance, the following
management strategy is recommended for any relamping project.
1. Develop a relamping statement of work that holds the
2The policy memorandum and 1994 TSCA question and answer recommendation are
based on a Federal Register preamble from 1978 (February 17, 1978; 44 FR 7150)
3See Attachment B.
4See Attachment C.
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2. Require that the contractor's bid provide a description of
proposed disposal and management options. The invitation
for bid should indicate that preference will be given to
options that include recycling.
3. Thoroughly evaluate the relamping contractor's proposed
disposal options for conformance with this guidance and
strategy. All facilities should ensure compliance-with- all
state and federal regulations throughout the relamping and
waste management process.
4. Exercise management oversight of all contractor lighting-
disposal practices to ensure conformance with the statement
of work requirements.
Attachments:
A. EPA Fact Sheet - Lighting Fixtures Management Options, Sept.
1994
B. PCB Q&A Manual, 1994 Edition, Small Capacitors (pgs. 11-12
to 11-15)
C. PCB Disposal Companies - Commercially Permitted, February
16, 1995
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United States Office of_ ..4~-/;>:~^A^oVEFA/20^-94-008
Environmental Protection Administration and . September J 994 <
Agency Resources Management '•••
&EPA Lighting Fixture Management
Options
Safety, Health and Environmental Management
Division 3207 Quick Reference Fact Sheet
EPA is committed to becoming more energy efficient through the use of energy-efficient lighting. As facilities replace their current
lighting systems with new. energy-efficient lighting, they need to be aware of the concerns regarding and options for safely disposing
of these lights, which may contain mercury, lead, or PCBs. Thus, this fact sheet was created by EPA's Safety. Health and Environmen-
tal Management Division as a guide for disposing of lamps containing mercury or lead, and ballasts containing PCBs. It is organized
' to provide infonnation on why facilities should consider using energy-effidemUghting, as weU as point out some of the concerns and
regulations affecting the disposal of lamps and ballasts. Pages 2 through 6 provide specific infonnation on the regulations, manage-
ment options, packing, labeling, transporting, storing, recordkeeping requirements, and management costs for lamps containing
mercury or lead and ballasts containing PCBs. The fact sheet concludes with Specific State Requirements Matrices, which list
specific state requirements for lighting containing PCBs and mercury (information on lamps ««n«r«ining lead has not yet been com-
piled). This information, published by the Green Lights Program, is accurate as of January 1994 and, because some states are
considering new regulations, should be confirmed with each state's environmental personnel
Why Should Facilities Switch To Energy-Efficient Lighting?
Lighting accounts for 20-25% of the total energy used annually in the United States and 80-90% of the energy used for commercial
purposes. Energy-efficient lighting can reduce the jdemand by over 50%. decreasing significantly die amount of fuel burned by
electricity-generating power plants.
The Federal government has launched a variety j)ftaergy conservation initiatives. EPA is a founding partner of the Green Lights
Program, a voluntary p'"g""r, established inxl991, mat emphasizes demand-side tn«niig»p»«K pf electricity to reduce air pollution. ~~
Another energy conservation initiative is Executive Order 12902 (signed March 8. 1994)^ This Order requires all Federal agencies to
develop and implement an energy conservation program that could reduce their gross square foot energy consumption by 30% by the
year 2005, based on 1985 levels. ./
\
Fluorescent lamps may. contain mercury and/or lead and may be considered a hazardous waste subject to the Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act (RCRA). Ballasts may contain PCBs and be subject to regulation under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA)
and subject to disposal requirements under the Comprehensive Environmental Response. Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA).
Upgrading to energy efficient lighting sources such as fluorescent lamps necessitates careful consideration of how these lighting
systems are transported, stored, and disposed. ;
\ t
: I
EPA has issued two regulatory proposals mat may impact the transport, storage, and disposal of fluorescent and mercury-containing
lamps. A final EPA rule is expected at the close of 1995. These proposals are:
• The Universal Waste Proposal (February 11, 1993, 58 FR 8102). If expanded to include fluorescent lamps, this proposal
would allow generators to ship thelamps without a manifest to a hazardous waste landfill, a recycler, or a consolidation point
for temporary storage.
• The Proposal on HflTiaTdPU5 Waste Management of Mercury-CpntHniflf LjfllM ^"ty 27, 1994, 59 FR 38288). This pro-
posal contains two options. Under the first option, mercury-containing lamps would be exempt from regulation as hazard-
ous waste under RCRA. provided that they are disposed of in EPa-permitted municipal solid waste landfills or managed in
permitted, licensed, and registered mercury reclamation farilities. The second option would add mercury-containing lamps
to the Universal Waste Proposal (see above). - -- " . .
In case of the promulgation of either proposed rule, states with programs more stringent than these proposals would not be bound to
the new rule. . .
-" . .' ..1 ' •' ' . -
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"T'^j^MPS CONTAIMNG MEROTRfc
LIGHTING MANAGEMENT OPTIONS (cont'd)
Packing, Labeling, Transporting, Storing,
Recordkeeping
Crushing/breaking lamps.J"
• Crushing lamps is not recommended as it may be
considered treatment and, therefore, nfCMritafftf a
permit. In addition, when lamps are broken, mer-
cury vapor, which is harmful to human health and
the environment, is released.
• Accidentally broken lamps should be'stored in a
covered plastic or plastic-lined container until they
are sent to a recycler or RCRA Subtitle D disposal
facility.
Packing lamps for transport:
• Pack lamps removed during relamping in the boxes
in which they initially arrived. Do not tape lamps
together.
• Place lamps in containers that comply with Sub-
part I of 40 CFR {265. These requirements in-
clude using containers rt?*T are in good condition
(if the container leaks, the lamps must be trans-
ferred to another container); using containers made
of or lined with materials compatible with the mer-
cury-containing lamps; keeping containers closed
during storage, except when adding or removing
lamps; and storing containers in accumulation ar-
eas where the owner or operator inspects the con-
tainers at least weekly (40 CFR §265.170-174).
Storing lamps for disposal:
* Accumulate lamps that are hazardous wastes in an
accumulation area and comply with the require-
ments of 40 CFR §262 (particularly §26234). If
lamps display the characteristic for mercury or lead,
comply with §268.7.
• Pack lamps in original boxes or provide cushion-
ing.
• Stack the boxes in a manner that prevents the crush-
ing of the lamps.
Labeling boxes containing lamps:
P ctani
g h»»*««Tlffli? waste as such
(40 CFR §262J4(aX2)). Note the accumulation
start date (40 CFR §262J34(aX3».
Transporting lamps:
Ship lamps with a registered solid or hazardous
waste transporter, as appropriate. Lamps
classified as hazardous wastes must be trans-
ported in accordance with Department of
Transportation hazardous materials regulations
(49 CER I72J04) and RCRA regulations (40
CFR262(b)).
Recordkeeping far o
lamps:
•ting mercury-containing
• Irack all transported rnercury-containing lamps
with a Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest.
which can be obtained from the receiving state •
agency or a disposal facility or recycler that
accepts hazardous wastes.
Management Costs
costs fiir fluorescent lamps are
typically calculated by linear foot, while high
intensity discharge (HID) lamps are quoted on a
• pel iauj^TWis
- Fluorescent lamp recycling costs range fjuui
ft-15* per toot
- HID recycling costs range from J1.25-J4.50
per lamp.
H«Mtdnii« waste landfill costs, for bom HID and
fluorescent lamps, range from 25«-5Qf per 4-foot
tube, excluding costs for packaging and transpor-
tation.
Municial solid was
costs for both HID
and fluorescent lamps range from 2«-3# per 4-
footlamp.
1 As proposals (fax may tignifienitly impact the KfnUtofy requn
should not purchase crashing equipment and should avoid using
for die prr if nt
[the dispart of lamps «e i
. Afncy penoanel
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BALLASTS^ONTAINING PCBs:
LIGHTING MANAGEMENT OPTIONS
Types of lighting equipment that may contain PCBs include
fluorescent lamps, high intensity discharge (e.g.,.mercury
vapor, metal halide. high pressure sodium), and incidental
hardware. J
Statutory Requirements 6 :
Non-leaking ballasts containing PCBs:
• TSCA:
Rgqitfrae that ballasts enptffining OVTT 50 ppm
PCBs be incinerated, disposed of in a chemi-
cal landfill, or treated with an alternative tech-
nology (40 CFR §761.60(e)).
Allows non-leaking small capacitors to be dis-
posed of in a municipal solid waste landfill
(40 CFR 761.60(bX2)(ii)).
• Notify the NRC if releasing greater than an RQ.
Under CERCLA, a release of one pound of PCBs
may constitute an RQ requiring building owners
and waste generators to notify the NRC at 1-800-
424-8802.
• The 1979 PCB Land Ban Rule (44 FR 31514), and
the final rule of August 25,1982 (47 FR 37342)
. encourage high-temperature incineration or dis-
posal in a chemical or a hazardous waste landfill.
Leaking ballasts containing PCBs: \
• TSCA requires high-temperature incineration (40
CFR §761).
Management Options (See Figure 3)
Determining whether ballasts contain PCBs:
• . Ballasts manufactured through 1979 contain PCBs;
therefore assume all contain PCBs.
.* Ballasts manufactured after 1979 that have a "No
PCBs" label do not contain PCBs.
• Ballasts manufactured after 1979 that do not have
the "No PCBs" label should be managed as if they
contain PCBs until properly characterized.
Evaluating whether ballasts containing PCBs an leaking:
if thf V
d personnel should handle
are leaking. Only tr
leaking ballasts.
Disposing afnon-Jealdnf ballasts containing PCBs:
• Dispose of intact ballasts bra municipal solid waste
landfill.* However, the EPA Green Lights Program
• •recommends high-temperature incineration, dis-
posal in a hazardous waste landfill, or recycling.
Disposing of leaking ballasts containing PCBs:
• Leaking ballasts must be irinnffatrff at a high-tem-
- perature incinerator. See page 7 of this fact sheet
for a list of incinerators.
FIGURE 3
Management Options
State requirements nuy.be
ghffit IQ identily S **** '
' You may be liable in any cnbtequent Superfund ckaiMip at «
(CERCLA J 107(i)). .
i Matrix contained in the "Ufhliiii DispouT Options* fact
e (tringeni dun Federal regulations. See (he State Refiili
icipal. bazanh>us,orcheinkall«adfiUifyoucfaoieiodttpa(eofw«*teiDa UndHU
-------
Additional information regarding disposal may also be obtained by calling the regulatory hotlines ortbe Green Lights Program.
Contacts for each of these resources are listed below. Infonnadon regardingEPA'sodwrpoQation prevention initiatives can be
obtained from EPA's Safety, Health and Environmental Management Division (see bottom of this page).
Disposal Locations
Commercially permitted PCS INCINERATORS operating as of June 1994:
Aptus, Inc.
P.O. Box 1328
Cofleyville, KS 67337
(3I6).251-6380
Chemical Waste Management*
P.O. Box 2563
Port Arthur, TX 77643
(409) 736-2821
Commercial!, permitted HAZARDOUS WASTF, J{ mmiX «{,*,«*,{** of June 1994?
Chem-Security Systems Inc.*
Star Route. Box 9-
Arlington, OR 98712
(503)454-5643
Envirosafe Services Inc.
of Idaho
P.O. Box 16217
Boise. ID 83715-6217
(800)274-1516
US. Ecology. Inc.
Box 578
Beatty.NV .89003
(702)553-2203
US. Pollution Control. Inc.
Gnyback Mountain
8960N Highway 40
.LakePotnt.UT 84074
(801)252-2000
Note: Call 1-800-843-3604 for information on Chemical Waste Management disposal facilities nationwide.
Recycling Services
Lamp Recycling Services
(as of January 1994):
Advanced Environmental Recycling Corp.
Allentown, PA . .
(215)797-7608
Lighting Resources, Inc.
Pomona, CA
(909)923-7252
Mercury Recovery Systems
Monrovia, CA
(818)301-1372
Mercury Technologies Corporation
Hayward, CA
(800) 628-3675
- .*
Ensquare, Inc. • - '
SummervUle, MA
(617)776-7320 »
Environmental Energy Group
Demon, TX
(817)898-1291
Ballast Recycling Services
(as of January 1994):
FulCtrcle Ballast Recyclers
•Cambridge, MA '
(800) 775-1516 (National Sates Office)
Lighting Resources, Inc.
Pomona, CA
(909)923-7252
SalescoU-S-A.:
Phoenix, AZ
'(800)368-9095
San Diego. CA
(619)793-3460
Boston, MA
(617) 344-4074
: Transformer Service, Inc.
Concord. NH 03302
(603)2244006
To obtain additional regulatory information, contact: ' •
Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Assistance Information Hotline - (202) 554-1404
RCRA/UST, Superrund and EPCRA Hotline: (703) 412-9810 (in the Washington, D.C Metro Area). H800) 424-9346
CERGLA National Response Center (NRC) Hotline - (800) 424-8802
Department of Transportation Hotline-(202) 366-4488 .
To obtain additional information on implementing energy efficient lighting systems, contact:
EPA's Green Lights Program
U.S.- Environmental Protection Agency x
401 M Street. S.W. (ANR-445)
Washington, DC 20460
(202) 775-6650, (202) 775-6680 (fax)
This fact sheet was prepared by the Environmental Protection Agency's Safety, Health and Environmental Management
Division fSHEMD). Questions about this fact sheet or about EPA's internal pollution prevention efforts may be directed
to SHEMD's Jeffrey Davidson at (202) 260-1650.
1 This it MX a <
codoned by the I
J recycling cervices tfaiaafht
i lined caapniet and cannot cnfinn the method
t the Uated Sate*. Canpnies lined ialhii feet steet we not
-------
ATTAC
*•"*"• *
UNITED STATES ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
PCS Q 4 A MANUAL
An EPA TSCA assistance document designed to provide the regulated
community with Agency interpretations to frequently posed
questions.* ;
Prepared by:
OPERATIONS BRANCH
CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT DIVISION
OFFICE OF POLLUTION PREVENTION AND TOXICS
1994 EDITION
* This publication is an informal document, and persons are
directed to the PCB final rules at Title 40 of the Code of
Federal Regulations part* 761 (40 CFR part 761) except where
otherwise noted for specific legal requirements. This document
provides information on the regulatory requirements for
polychlorinated biphenyls that have been reflected in final
regulations published through December 31, 1990. Any past
versions of this document either final or in draft form are now
obsolete.
-------
--FOREWORD--
The PCB Q & A Manual has been prepared to assist the user in
answering frequently asked questions on the PCB regulations. -It
is a quick source of information that will be updated as new
rules and policies become final. The looseleaf style and
pagination within chapters will facilitate updating as needed'.
Each time a new chapter is added, a new table of contents and a
new alphabetical list of chapters will also be generated. All
persons to,, whom EPA has sent the PCB Q & A Manual will
automatically receive updates with instructions to add and/or
replace pages already in the binder. Please complete the
following Update Request Form and mail this entire page to:
Environmental Assistance Division (7408), Environmental
Protection Agency, 401 M St. S.W., Washington, DC 20460, or call
the TSCA Assistance Information Service at 202-554-1404 to
receive the PCB Q & A Manual Updates and Revisions.
- PCS Q & A MANUAL -
T7nda.t:e Ramies ti Foxm
FACILITY;
STREET ADDRESS;
CITY; » STATE: ZIP:
ATTENTION:
-------
/"
PART B
CAPACITORS
Small capacitors are.those which contain less than 3 Ibs. of
dielectric fluids. They commonly contain between 0.1 and
0.6 pound of PCBs and are used in fluorescent light'
ballasts, household appliances/ and industrial equipment.
In most applications, the equipment containing the—small
capacitor in its circuitry cannot function without it.
Since these capacitors contain small quantities of
dielectric fluid and significant amounts of absorbent
material such as paper, and because many of these capacitors
are encapsulated, large. amounts of PCBs are not, released
'from these capacitors during their use in appliances or
other equipment'containing small capacitors. Therefore,
exposure risks to humans, food, feed, water,, or the
environment from the use of these capacitors are generally
low. EPA has determined that the use of small capacitors
containing PCBs is not unreasonable because of their .low
risk compared with the benefits from the use of millions of
pieces of electronic -equipment and consumer products;
billions of dollars in replacement costs; and the lack of
practical cost-effective risk reduction measures. .
MANUFAC
The manufacture of PCBs, regardless of concentration, for
use in small capacitors is prohibited [761. 20 (b)].
PROCESSING
The processing of PCBs, 50 ppm or greater, for use in small
capacitors is prohibited without an EPA exemption
[761. 20 (c)]. PCBs in any concentration may be processed
(i.e., prepared and/or packaged for distribution in
commerce) for purposes of disposal in accordance with the
requirements of 761.60 [761.20 (c) (2) and. (4)J .
BUTION H COMMERCE (Sale of Small PCS Capaci
The distribution in commerce of PCBs, 50 ppm or greater, for
use in small capacitors is prohibited without an EPA
exemption [761 . 20 (c) ] . PCBs at any concentration may be
distributed in commerce for purposes of disposal in
accordance with the requirements of .761.60 [761. 20 (c) (2) and
(4)] . Disposal means the termination of the useful life of
the PCB or PCB-Contaminated Capacitors. .
11-12
-------
..... .
storage and disposed of within one year [761. 65 (a)]. Also,
any small PCS Capacitor owned by any person, who
-manufactures, or at any time manufactured, PCB Capacitors or
PGB Equipment and acquired the PCB Capacitor in the course
of such manufacturing, must be stored in accordance with
761. 65 (b) ...
DISPOSAL - ___ _
Small PCB Capacitors and Equipment containing small PCB
Capacitors may be disposed of as municipal solid waste.
[761. 60 (b) (2) (ii)], except that any small PCB Capacitor
owned by any person who manufactures or at any time
manufactured PCB Capacitors or PCB Equipment and acquired
the PCB Capacitors in the course of such manufacturing must
be disposed of as follows [761 . 60 (b) (2) (iv)] :
• In an incinerator that complies with 40 CFR
761.70.
• By an alternative EPA approved and permitted
method.
EPA recommends that where several small PCB Capacitors are
gathered together in drums or containers, that the disposal
method be determined by the combined amount of PCBs in the
several capacitors. That is, if 3 Ibs. or more of PCBs are
contained in the several small capacitors, the Agency
recommends that the several small capacitors be disposed of
in accordance with the requirements for large capacitors .
Also, EPA encourages users of large amounts of small PCB
Capacitors to institute voluntary collection programs to
dispose of the small capacitors in PCB Incinerators.
[Readers are advised to contact their PCB Regonal
Coordinator for the policy on the disposal of large numbers
of small capacitors.]
SPILLS
Spills, leaks, and other uncontrolled discharges where the
release results in any quantity of PCBs Tanning off of about
to run off the external surface of a small PCB Capacitor is
considered improper disposal of PCBs . The PCB Spill Cleanup
Policy provides specific cleanup measures which, if followed
explicitly, create a presumption against enforcement for
penalties or further cleanup. See the chapter on "PCB Spill
Cleanup Policy" for specific measures.
11-14
U.S. EPA Headquarters Library
. .Mail code 3201
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington DC 20460
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ATTACHMENT C
PCS DISPOSAL COMPANIES
COMMERCIALLY PEPMTTTRD
FEB I 6 1995
^Permitted to operate in all ten EPA Regions
COMPANY
INCINERATORS
Aptus, Inc.
Chemical Waste
Management
Rollins
WESTON
ADDRESS
P.O. Box 1328
Coffeyville, KS 67337
P.O. 27448
Salt Lake City, DT 84127
11600 N. Aptus Road
Aragonite, DT 84029
P.O. Box 2563
Port Arthur, TX 77643
P.O. Box 609
Deer Park, TX 77536
One Weston Way
West Chester, PA 19380
ALTERNATE THERMAL TECHNOLOGIES
General Electric
100 Woodlawn Avenue
Pittsfield, MA 01201
PHONE NO.
312-251 6380
801-531-4200 .
801-531-4200
409-736-2821
713-930-2300
215-692-3030 *
413-494-2700
CHEMICAL DECELORINATION
Chemical Waste
Management
Exceltech, Inc.
(ENSCO Subsidiary)
Aptus, Inc.
PPM, inc.
(USPCI Subsidiary)
ENSR Operations
(formerly Sunohio)
1550 Balmer Road
Model City, NY 14107
41638 Christy Street
Fremont, CA 94538
P.O. Box 1328
Coffeyville, KS 67337
1875 Forge Street
Tucker, GA 30084
1700 Gateway Blvd. S.E.
Canton, OH 44707
716-754-8231
415-659-040-4
316-251-6380
404-934-0902 *
216-452-0837 *
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•"*•
COMPANY ADDRESS
FLUORESCENT LIGHT BALAST RECYCLING
FulCircle Ballast Recyclers 186 Brattle Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
S. D. Myers, Inc.
180 South Avenue
Tallmadge, Ohio 44278
Salesco Systems USA, Inc.-AZ 5736 West Jefferson
Phoenix, AZ 85043
CHEMICAL HASTE LANDFILLS
Chemical Waste
Management
Chem-Security Systems
Incorporated
Envirosafe Services
Inc. of Idaho
CWM Chemical Services
Controlt Inc,
U.S. Ecology, Inc.
U.S. Pollution
Control, Inc.
Alabama Inc. Box 55
Emelle, AL 35459
Box 471
Kettleman City, CA 93239
Star Route, Box 9
Arlington, OR 98712
P.O. Box 16217
Boise, ID 83715-6217
1550 Balmer Road
Model City, NY 14107
\ '
BOX 578
Beatty, NV 89003
Grayback Mountain
8960N Hwy 40
Lake Point, UT 84074
PHONE NO.
800-775-1516
j
800-444-9580
800-368-9095
205-652-9721
209-386-9711
503-454-2643
800-274-1516
716-754-8231
702-553-2203
801-595-3900
BIOLOGICAL
Detox Industries, Inc.
12919 Dairy Ashford
Sugar Land, TX 77478
713-240-0892
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APR
OFF ICC OF
SOLID WASTE AND EMEftOCNCV MESPONM
SUBJECT: Use of Alternative Secondary Containment Measures at
Facilities Regulated under the Oil Pollution Prevention
Regulation MJLCFR Part 117,)
FROM: Don R. Cltf
Assistant Adminis
TO: Director, Environmental Services Division
Regions I, VI, VII
Director, Emergency and Remedial Response Division
Region II
Director, Hazardous Haste Management Division
Regions III, IX
Director, Waste Management Division
Regions IV, V, VIII
Director, Hazardous Waste Division
Region X
PURPOSE
This memorandum addresses the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency's (EPA) interpretation of the term "secondary containment"
as it is used in section 112.7(c) of the oil Pollution Prevention
regulation (40 CFR Part 112), also known as the Spill Prevention,
Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) regulation. It also addresses
technologies that may be used to provide secondary containment
for smaller, shop-fabricated aboveground storage tanks (ASTs)
consistent with 40 CFR Part 112.7(c).
BACKGROUND
Since 1973, the SPCC regulation has included the following
provision addressing secondary containment and the allowance for
equivalent preventive systems. Section 112.7(c) states:
Appropriate containment and/or diversionary structures or
equipment to prevent discharged oil from reaching a
navigable water course should be provided. One of the
following preventive systems or its equivalent should be
Printed on Recycled Paper
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Consistent with station 112.l(e) of the SPCC regulation,
this memorandum docs not supersede the authority of "existing
lavs, regulations, rules, standards, policies and procedures
pertaining to safety standards, fire prevention and pollution
rules,• including fire vodes or other standards for good
engineering practice that nay apply to alternative AST systems.
On October 22, 1991, EPA proposed revisions to the SPCC
regulation. The proposed revisions do not affect the provisions
of section 112.-7 (c) that describe alternative systems that are
substantially equivalent to those specifically listed in
paragraphs (c)(1)(i) through (e)(1)(vii).
OBJECTIVE :t . '
This memorandum should allow EPA Regional personnel to
provide consistent interpretation of the secondary. containment
provisions of section 112.7(c) of the SPCC regulation to
facilities with generally Smaller shop-fabricated ASTs.
Alternative AST systems, including equipment and procedures to
prevent reasonably expected discharges, should satisfy the
secondary containment provisions of the SPCC regulation under
most site-specific conditions.
DI8CDBS1OM
As smaller shop-fabricated ASTs are increasingly appearing
in the market, we have observed a number of innovative
technologies to reduce the risks of both leaks and spills.
Moreover, these smaller shop-fabricated tanks do not pose the
same risk of large uncontrolled oil spills to navigable waters as
the larger field-erected tanks. Therefore, we believe that there
should be many situations in which protection of navigable waters
substantially equivalent to that provided by the secondary
containment systems listed in section 112.7(c) could be provided
by alternative AST systems that have capacities generally less
than 12,000 gallons and are installed and operated with
protective measures other than secondary containment dikes. For
example, some State programs provide an exemption from state
spill prevention requirements for ASTs with similar capacities.
However, in certain situations, these alternative AST systems
might appropriately not be presumed to comply with the provisions
of section 112.7(c). An example of this type of situation is
facilities containing four or more ASTs or ASTs with combined
capacity greater than 40,000 gallons, where a number of larger
tanks are connected by manifolds or other piping arrangements
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or flow shut-off,2 and all product transfers are constantly
"
When the only significant source of potential oil spills to
navigable waters of the United states from a facility is from
alternative ASTs as described in this memorandum, an SPCC Plan
that is certified by a Registered Prof essional Engineer and that
requires equipment and operating practices in accordance with
good engineering practice and the principle of substantial
equivalence as described above should be presumed to achieve the
protection of navigable waters substantially equivalent to that
provided by the preventive systems specified in 40 CFR Part
112. 7 (c).
cc: Bowdoin Train
Henry Longest
Bruce Diamond
Deborah Dietrich
Walter Kovalick
James Makris
Charles Openchovski
David Ziegele
Wendy Butler
Removal Managers, Regions I-X .
2 Consistent with the performance standards for these devices ma
described in section 280.20(c) of EPA regulations for USTs at 40 CPU Part
280 and in an August 5, 1991, amendment, an automatic flow shut-off will
shut off flow so chat none of the fittings located on top of the tank are
exposed to product as a result of overfilling, an automatic flow restrictor
will restrict flow 30 minuces prior to overfill or when the tank is no more
than 90 percent full, and a high level alarm will alert the operator one
minute before overfilling or when the tank is no more than 90 percent full.
s Consistent with the performance standard for overfill control as
described in section 280.30(a) of EPA regulations for USTs at 40 CFR Part
280, an owner/operator of the facility will ensure that the transfer
operation is Bonitored constantly to prevent overfilling and spilling.
Trrrcx O txrx:
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