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Bellcore is now
endorsing provisions of Uniform Fire Code (UFC) Article 64 – Stationary
Lead-acid Battery Systems. In an article published in the
September/October issue of Power Quality Assurance, Ronald Marts, AIA, CFM
of Bellcore addresses safety, health and environmental application issues
associated with lead-acid batteries in telecommunications, data centers,
critical manufacturing processes, process control, transportation,
electric utilities and other places that use batteries.
The author’s
conclusions include provisions for a four inch high, liquid-tight
containment system around the perimeter of the battery rack or stand and
passive absorption and neutralization mats within the containment system.
This is in keeping with UFC Article 64 spill management system
requirements.
In addition to
spill control and acid neutralization, Article 64 address other areas of
concern including ventilation, warning signs, and seismic protection.
Without applying Article 64 to battery systems, most facilities must, by
law, be classified as a Group H - Division 7 Occupancy. It is through the
application of Article 64 that one is granted stationary lead-acid battery
exemptions from other significant provisions of the UFC including being
classified as a hazardous chemical facility and therefore the more
stringent provisions and restrictions of Article 80 – Hazardous Materials.
Activity
Considerations for Facilities with over 17 Gallons of Battery Acid:
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Determine if
lead-acid batteries must be reported under provisions of the Emergency
Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA).
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Sulfuric
acid as an extremely hazardous substance (EHS): 500 pounds
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Total
battery as a hazardous material: 10,000 pounds
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