I am working with a client who is making every effort to comply with the Maximum Allowable Quantity (MAQ) limits for a flammable liquid process area. This process is a PSM-covered process, so I offered up how to work beyond the MAQ of 480 gallons1 for a fire control area. This compliance option 5001.3 was officially introduced in the 2015 edition of the IFC; however, a version of it first appeared in the IFC as Section 2701.3. This option is in NO WAY taking a shortcut to code compliance; it is simply a means for businesses to use OSHA’s PSM and EPA’s RMP management system and all the process RAGAGEPs in lieu of complying with Chapters 50-67.
Bottom Line… under the “Performance-based design alternative,” we should NOT have an MAQ. Let me explain.