Height of Stacks
Clearances
This section describes the required limitations for
storing materials. The height of stacks should not be
limited except when required for operations stability
and to maintain clearances and floor load limits. Below
automatic sprinkler deflectors, there must bean 18-inch
clearance when the stack height of material is not more
than 15 feet. Maintain a 36-inch clearance for a stack
height that is more than 15 feet. For hazardous material,
maintain a 36-inch clearance regardless of the stack
height. Maintain an 18-inch clearance when the height
of the stack below joists, rafters, beams, or roof trusses
is not more than 15 feet. Maintain a 36-inch clearance
when the stack height is more than 15 feet. Regardless
of the height, stacks in buildings without automatic
sprinklers must have a 36-inch clearance.
The requirement for maintaining clearance between
stored material and the walls apply to specific situations.
In buildings with substandard fire walls (less than
4-hour rating), you must maintain a clearance of 24
inches. You must maintain a 24-inch clearance for
hazardous materials stored in general-purpose
buildings. For materials subject to excessive swelling,
you must maintain a clearance not to exceed 12 inches.
The clearance maintained around fire doors is 24 inches
between stock and the fire door, except the door near the
aisle. The portion of the fire door near the aisle must
have a 36-inch clearance. Where there is a protective
barricade provided for the fire door, no clearance
between the stock and barricade is required.
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