Focus: Fire-Life Safety / Column

Regulations, Codes & Standards Q&A: Alcohol disinfectant wipes

Brad Keyes discusses regulations for alcohol disinfectant wipes

By Brad Keyes / Special to Healthcare Facilities Today


Q: What is your opinion on alcohol based disinfectant wipes and their inclusion in the aggregate amount of flammable liquids in a smoke compartment?  We are considering a product that contains 55% isopropyl alcohol and would be 857ml.  There is one opinion posted online that includes these products in the NFPA 30 standard compliance.

A: I would agree with the concept that any alcohol product would contribute to the aggregate total of ABHR liquids or aerosols to not exceed 10 gallons in dispensers per smoke compartment. Therefore, if you had one 857 ml dispenser of alcohol-based disinfectant wipes, then you would be limited to 36 one-liter ABHR dispensers per smoke compartment so you would not exceed 10 gallons of product in dispensers per smoke compartment. This would be consistent with section 19.3.2.6 (5) of the 2012 LSC.

Brad Keyes, CHSP, is the owner of KEYES Life Safety Compliance, and his expertise is in the management of the Life Safety Program, including the Environment of Care and Emergency Management programs.

 



July 11, 2018


Topic Area: Regulations, Codes & Standards


Recent Posts

Avoiding Mistakes in Healthcare Site Selection

Actionable strategies for healthcare systems and medical groups navigating today’s constrained real estate market.


Can Rural Hospitals Be Saved?

More than 700 rural hospitals nationwide face the risk of closure. A new report highlights solutions that could improve long-term sustainability.


Ascension Saint Thomas Breaks Ground on Hospital and Health Campus in Tennessee

The new hospital will open with 44 inpatient beds and will be designed to expand to 132 beds as community needs grow.


The Hidden Risks of QAC Disinfectants in Healthcare Facilities

Quaternary ammonium compounds are a popular disinfectant choice, but they may be causing more harm than good. A review outlines the problems with QACs and offers a solution.


Sprinkler Compliance: Navigating Code Mandates, Renovation Triggers and Patient Safety

As CMS deadlines approach and renovation projects accelerate, healthcare facility managers must understand how NFPA 101, state fire codes and sprinkler design strategies intersect.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.