Storing flammable products isn’t just about fire safety—it’s about full regulatory compliance. Distributors handling paints, solvents, adhesives, coatings, and other flammable materials must meet strict requirements set by OSHA, NFPA, and local fire codes. Failure to comply doesn’t just risk fines—it endangers lives, property, and business continuity.
This complete guide outlines the core compliance requirements every distributor must follow when storing flammable products—and how to build a safer, more accountable storage program.
- Understand What Qualifies as a Flammable Product
OSHA and NFPA definitions:
Flammable liquids: Liquids with a flash point below 100°F (38°C)
Combustible liquids: Flash points between 100°F and 200°F
Common examples in the building materials industry include:
Solvent-based adhesives and sealants
Paint thinners and lacquer
Cleaning agents
Resin products
Always review Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to determine the classification of each product in your inventory.
- Know the Applicable Regulations
Key agencies and standards include:
OSHA 29 CFR 1910.106: Governs flammable and combustible liquids
NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code
International Fire Code (IFC): May be adopted or modified locally
EPA: Governs spill containment and hazardous material reporting
Check with your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for city or county-specific fire code requirements.
- Use Approved Storage Cabinets and Containers
Store flammable liquids in UL- or FM-approved flammable storage cabinets
Cabinets must be:
Labeled clearly (“Flammable – Keep Fire Away”)
Constructed of double-walled steel with 1.5″ airspace
Equipped with self-closing doors if required by local codes
Limit storage to 60 gallons per cabinet for Class I and II liquids
Also:
Never store flammable liquids in break rooms, offices, or near ignition sources
Use approved safety cans for smaller quantities
- Adhere to Quantity Limits by Storage Area
Distributors must follow specific quantity limits based on facility design and fire suppression availability:
Inside a warehouse without a sprinkler system: severely limited storage quantities
With a sprinkler system: larger amounts may be stored but must still be segregated and properly contained
Large volumes may require a designated flammable liquid storage room with explosion-proof ventilation and fire-rated construction
Always maintain separation between flammable storage areas and high-traffic or ignition-prone zones.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation and Temperature Control
Flammable vapors can ignite under the right conditions. To mitigate this:
Provide mechanical ventilation in storage rooms to prevent vapor buildup
Maintain temperatures below the flash point of stored materials
Keep storage areas away from sunlight, heat-generating equipment, or hot work areas
- Labeling and Signage Requirements
Your facility must be clearly marked with the appropriate signage:
“Flammable Materials” or “No Smoking” signs
NFPA hazard diamonds or GHS pictograms where required
Hazard signage must be:
Durable and visible from a distance
Placed at entry points and on storage cabinets
- Spill Containment and Emergency Response
Install spill containment pallets or sumps beneath liquid storage
Keep spill kits nearby with absorbents, neutralizers, and PPE
Train staff on emergency shutdown procedures and spill response
Maintain a fire extinguisher (Class B-rated) within 10–50 feet of flammable liquid storage
Reportable quantities of certain chemicals must also be registered with the EPA or local authorities.
- Employee Training and Documentation
Every employee who handles or works near flammable products must receive training that covers:
Hazard communication (HazCom/GHS)
Safe handling and transfer procedures
PPE requirements (gloves, goggles, respirators as needed)
Fire extinguisher use and evacuation procedures
Keep documentation of all training, inspections, and incident reports to demonstrate regulatory compliance.
- Conduct Regular Inspections
Inspect storage areas weekly for leaks, damaged containers, or blocked exits
Verify fire suppression systems and alarms are functional
Review container labels and SDS availability
Document inspection findings and correct deficiencies immediately
Scheduled audits show regulators—and your team—that safety is an active priority.
Final Thoughts
Storing flammable products safely and legally is about more than avoiding citations—it’s about protecting your team, your facility, and your business. By following these core compliance guidelines, distributors in the building materials supply chain can reduce risk, improve safety performance, and stay ahead of inspections and audits.
Invest in proper infrastructure, train your staff regularly, and review regulations often. Flammable storage is one area where cutting corners can come at a high cost—don’t leave it to chance.
