Requirements for Flammable Dispensing Rooms in Ontario
Flammable dispensing rooms are specialized spaces designed for the storage and handling of flammable or combustible liquids. These rooms are governed by strict codes and standards to minimize fire and explosion risks. In Ontario, compliance with the Ontario Fire Code (Ontario Regulation 213/07), the NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, and the Fire Code Audit Services offered by HITE Engineering ensures your facility remains safe and legally compliant.
Why Compliance Matters
Improperly designed or maintained dispensing rooms can become ignition points for catastrophic fires and explosions. Employers and building owners are legally responsible under Ontario’s Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) to protect workers and ensure flammable liquids are stored and handled in compliance with applicable standards.
Key Requirements for Flammable Dispensing Rooms
- Fire Rating: Rooms must be constructed with appropriate fire-resistance ratings, often requiring fire-rated walls, ceilings, and self-closing fire doors to contain potential ignition sources.
- Ventilation: Adequate mechanical ventilation is required to prevent the buildup of vapours. Knowing whether your vapours are heavier or lighter than air determines exhaust and intake placement.
- Spill Control: Rooms must be equipped with spill containment measures, absorbent materials, and cleanup procedures to mitigate risks of liquid leaks or spills.
- Doorway & Egress Requirements: Dispensing room doors must swing outward, remain unobstructed, and comply with Ontario Fire Code egress requirements to allow safe exit in emergencies.
- Signage & Labeling: Proper hazard signage, flammable liquid labels, and “No Smoking/No Ignition Source” notices are mandatory.
Risks of Non-Compliance
Failure to comply with fire and safety codes exposes facilities to severe risks including:
- Fire and explosion hazards due to vapour accumulation
- Regulatory fines and stop-work orders
- Insurance claim denials for non-compliant facilities
- Injuries, fatalities, and liability exposure
How HITE Engineering Can Help
At HITE Engineering, we provide expert reviews and risk assessments to confirm whether your flammable dispensing rooms meet the latest requirements under the Ontario Fire Code and NFPA standards. Our engineers evaluate construction, ventilation, spill control, and egress systems — delivering a signed and sealed compliance report, with practical recommendations where improvements are needed.
FAQ: Flammable Dispensing Room Requirements
What is a flammable dispensing room?
A flammable dispensing room is a designated space for safely storing and handling flammable or combustible liquids. It is designed with fire-rated construction, ventilation, and spill protection to reduce fire and explosion risks.
What codes govern flammable dispensing rooms in Ontario?
Key regulations include the Ontario Fire Code, Ontario Building Code, and NFPA 30. Employers must also comply with OHSA requirements for hazardous materials handling.
How should ventilation be designed for flammable liquids?
Ventilation must account for vapour density. Heavier-than-air vapours (like gasoline) require low exhaust placement, while lighter vapours (like alcohols) need high exhaust. Continuous airflow reduces ignition risk.
What are the doorway requirements for dispensing rooms?
Doors must be outward-swinging, self-closing, and fire-rated. They must remain unobstructed to ensure safe egress during emergencies, in compliance with Ontario Fire Code egress standards.
Is spill control mandatory?
Yes. Spill containment, absorbents, and cleanup procedures are mandatory under the Ontario Fire Code and NFPA standards to minimize hazards from leaks or spills.
How can I confirm if my facility is compliant?
Consulting with a licensed engineering firm such as HITE Engineering ensures your dispensing room is reviewed for compliance, with a detailed report and corrective action plan provided if needed.
