Code of practice for fire safety of industrial buildings: Viscose rayon yarn and/or staple fibre plants
1990 Edition

Storage of carbon disulphide (CS2) must adhere strictly to IS 5685:1970, focusing on its highly flammable and volatile nature. It should be stored in well-ventilated, cool, and dry locations away from ignition sources, utilizing explosion-proof electrical fittings and non-sparking equipment. Containers need to be airtight, correctly labeled, and compatible with CS2. Adequate separation from other chemicals and combustible materials is essential to mitigate fire risks. Fire detection and suppression systems such as foam or dry chemical extinguishers must be installed, along with emergency pressure relief provisions. All machinery handling CS2 must comply with IS 5685:1970 to minimize ignition possibilities.

According to IS 3058, electrical installations in hazardous areas must comply with IS 1646:1982 for wiring and safety. Equipment located in xanthation and carbon disulphide processing zones must be flameproof to prevent ignition of explosive atmospheres. Overhaul and maintenance of flameproof electrical devices should be performed strictly under manufacturer guidance, ensuring that all equipment undergoes appropriate testing before being returned to service. Periodic inspections and testing are required to maintain integrity and safety in such hazardous environments.

Sulphur storage should maintain a minimum distance of 30 meters from other storage locations or structures, except when adjacent to carbon disulphide or sulphuric acid plants, where this distance can be reduced to 15 meters. Additionally, the carbon disulphide and sulphuric acid plants themselves should be spaced at least 30 meters apart, and both should maintain a minimum 75-meter separation from the main production plant. These distances are critical to reduce fire and chemical hazard risks.

IS 3058 recommends but does not mandate the installation of automatic sprinkler systems in viscose rayon manufacturing facilities and associated godowns. The standard advises that sprinkler systems be preferably installed as a fire safety enhancement. While not explicitly compulsory, integrating automatic sprinklers is considered best practice to significantly improve fire protection.

Fuel oil storage must comply with IS 12056:1987 and IS 3594:1989, requiring leak-proof tanks, proper ventilation to prevent vapor buildup, and appropriate fire protection and safe filling procedures. Coal should be stored outdoors on a clean, hard surface such as brick or concrete, free from vegetation or debris. It must be positioned at least 30 meters away from other storage or structural areas, except the boiler house, from which a minimum distance of 15 meters should be maintained to reduce fire hazards.