Q: Our supply manager was being asked to stock more alcohol and in larger containers in their distribution area. According to NFPA 30, the maximum allowable quantity of flammable liquids in an appropriate storage cabinet is 120 gallons. If we want to store more than 120 gallons in the department, what happens?

A: According to NFPA 30-2012, section 18.5.4.1, the maximum quantity of Class IB flammable liquids stored in any fire compartment is 120 gallons — no more than that is permitted. In a hospital situation, a smoke compartment may qualify as a NFPA 30 ‘fire compartment’. You need to tell your supply manager that they cannot store more than 120 gallons in any one smoke compartment.