Hazardous Materials Calculator

Hazardous Materials Allowable Quantity Calculator

Helps determine if the quantity of a hazardous material complies with allowable limits in CFC Table 5003.1.1(1), based on storage/use type and code-based increases for sprinklered buildings and approved cabinets.

Select Material

Common research lab materials are preloaded. For project-specific chemicals, please contact Mark directly.

Select Use Type

Storage: Material is stored only (e.g., in containers or tanks).
Use - Closed System: Material is used in a closed process with minimal exposure to the atmosphere.
Use - Open System: Material is exposed to the atmosphere during use (e.g., open containers, pipetting).

Select Floor Level

Floor level impacts the percentage of the MAQ allowed per control area per CBC Table 414.2.2. Lower floors allow higher limits.

Quantity Input Mode Enter Quantity

Sprinklered Building (100% Increase)

Per CFC Section 5003.1.1(1), when a building is fully sprinklered, the MAQ for most hazardous materials may be doubled.

Stored in Approved Cabinet (100% Increase)

When hazardous materials are stored in a listed/approved cabinet per CFC 5003.1.10, a second MAQ increase may apply.

Control Area Notes (CFC/CBC 2022)

Construction Requirements: Control areas must be separated by fire barriers (CBC Section 414.2.1).
MAQ Reductions by Floor: Higher floors allow smaller percentages of MAQ (see Table 414.2.2).
Max Number of Control Areas: Varies by floor and fire-resistive construction (Table 414.2.2).
Fire-Resistance Ratings: Most control areas require 2-hour fire resistance. Some may be reduced to 1 hour if sprinklered and below 3rd floor (CBC 414.2.4).

CFC H-Occupancy Class Descriptions (2022)

H-1: High hazard materials with detonation potential (e.g., explosives).
H-2: High hazard materials that support deflagration or rapid combustion (e.g., flammable gases, volatile flammable liquids).
H-3: Materials that readily support combustion or pose a physical hazard (e.g., oxidizers, corrosives, flammable solids).
H-4: Health hazards like toxic or corrosive substances posing risks to life or health.
H-5: Semiconductor fabrication and related operations with hazardous production materials (HPM).
NA: Not classified as a hazardous occupancy under standard conditions.

Note: This tool helps estimate whether you exceed MAQs under general conditions. Always consult the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) or a Fire Protection Engineer for confirmation.