HIGH PILE COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE

DOCUMENT #2
COMMODITY CLASSIFICATIONS
4/1999, Revised-1/2012

COLORADO SPRINGS FIRE DEPARTMENT

Division of the Fire Marshal

If you have any questions or comments regarding the information contained within, or if you need assistance
interpreting these requirements, please contact:

Colorado Springs Fire Department

Division of the Fire Marshal
375 Printers Parkway
Colorado Springs, Colorado 80910
Tel: (719) 385-5978
Fax: (719) 385-7334
HIGH PILED COMBUSTIBLE STORAGE DOCUMENT SUMMARIES

Document 1 General Information on the Requirements of Chapter 23 of the 2009 International

Fire Code. This document contains general information about high-piled combustible
storage and the requirements of Chapter 23 of the 2009 International Fire Code. This
document is recommended for first time customers trying to obtain as much practical
information as possible prior to plan submittal. This document also contains samples of
our questionnaires for both stocking of general commodities as well as plastics. See
Table of Contents for copies of these forms.

Document 2 Commodity Classifications. This document contains numerous examples of products

and their associated commodity classifications. Use this document to aid in correctly
determining the commodity class for a given product or products.

Document 3 High Piled Storage of Combustibles in Existing Buildings with Existing Tenants.
This document is the primary resource for those existing facilities obtaining an annual
high piled storage permit. All required forms and instructions on how to fill out the forms
and what to submit are provided.

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Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Purpose_____________________________________________________________________________ 3
Scope_______________________________________________________________________________ 3
Definitions __________________________________________________________________________ 3
General Commodities (Class I, II, III, IV and High Hazard) ______________________________________ 3
Plastic Commodities (Group A, B and C Plastics) _______________________________________________ 5
Mixed Commodities _______________________________________________________________________ 6
Commodity classification Examples _____________________________________________________ 9
Alphabetized Listing of Commodity Classes ____________________________________________ 9
Examples of Class I Commodities ____________________________________________________ 11
Examples of Class II Commodities ___________________________________________________ 12
Examples of Class III Commodities __________________________________________________ 13
Examples of Class IV Commodities __________________________________________________ 13
Examples of Group A Plastic Commodities ____________________________________________ 14

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Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
PURPOSE

This document is designed to provide the customer a comprehensive resource in which to accurately
determine the commodity classification for product(s) within a facility. Examples of various commodities
from both the 2009 International Fire Code and 2010 NFPA 13, Standard on the Installation of Fire
Sprinkler Systems, are provided as reference in commodity classification determination.

SCOPE

The scope covers those materials specifically listed within this document or Document 1. The scope also
covers those materials that may not be specifically referenced within this document however, exhibit
similar characteristics to those listed. This document is not intended to address hazardous or explosive
materials. Aerosols, flammable and combustible liquids, hazardous materials and explosives are outside
the scope of this document, unless otherwise referenced.

DEFINITIONS

Commodity classifications dictate requirements ranging from smoke vent and building access
requirements to maximum pile dimensions and storage heights to sprinkler system design. Therefore, an
accurate determination of the commodity classification is essential.

I. General Commodities (Class I, II, III, IV and High Hazard)

Class I Commodities
IFC - Class I commodities are essentially noncombustible products on wooden or non-expanded
polyethylene solid deck pallets, in ordinary corrugated cartons with or without single-thickness dividers, or
in ordinary paper wrappings with or without pallets. Class I commodities are allowed to contain a limited
amount of Group A plastics in accordance with Section 2303.7.4. Examples of Class I commodities
include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Alcoholic beverages not exceeding 20-percent alcohol in noncombustible containers
• Appliances noncombustible, electrical
• Cement in bags
• Ceramics
• Dairy products in nonwax-coated containers (excluding bottles)
• Dry insecticides
• Foods in noncombustible containers
• Fresh fruits and vegetables in nonplastic trays or containers
• Frozen foods
• Glass
• Glycol in metal cans
• Gypsum board Inert materials, bagged Insulation, noncombustible
• Noncombustible liquids in plastic containers having less than a 5-gallon (19 L) capacity
• Noncombustible metal products

NFPA 13 - A Class I commodity shall be defined as a non combustible product that meets one of the
following criteria: 1) Placed directly on wooden pallets; 2) Placed in single-layer corrugated cartons, with
or without single-thickness cardboard dividers, with or without pallets; 3) Shrink-wrapped or paper-
wrapped as a unit load with or without pallets.

Class II Commodities

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IFC - Class II commodities are Class I products in slatted wooden crates, solid wooden boxes, multiple-
thickness paperboard cartons or equivalent combustible packaging material with or without pallets. Class
II commodities are allowed to contain a limited amount of Group A plastics in accordance with Section
2303.7.4. Examples of Class II commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Alcoholic beverages not exceeding 20-percent alcohol, in combustible containers
• Foods in combustible containers
• Incandescent or fluorescent light bulbs in cartons
• Thinly coated fine wire on reels or in cartons

NFPA 13 - A Class II commodity shall be defined as a noncombustible product that is in slatted wooden
crates, solid wood boxes, multiple-layered corrugated cartons, or equivalent combustible packaging
material, with or without pallets.

Class III Commodities

IFC - Class III commodities are commodities of wood, paper, natural fiber cloth, or Group C plastics or
products thereof, with or without pallets. Products are allowed to contain limited amounts of Group A or B
plastics, such as metal bicycles with plastic handles, pedals, seats and tires. Group A plastics shall be
limited in accordance with Section 2303.7.4. Examples of Class III commodities include, but are not
limited to, the following:
• Aerosol, Level 1 (see Chapter 28) • Paper, waste, baled
• Combustible fiberboard • Paper and pulp, horizontal storage, or
• Cork, baled vertical storage that is banded or
• Feed, bagged protected with approved wrap
• Fertilizers, bagged • Paper in cardboard boxes
• Food in plastic containers • Pillows, excluding foam rubber and foam
• Furniture: wood, natural fiber, upholstered, plastics
non-plastic, wood or metal with plastic- • Plastic-coated paper food containers
padded and covered arm rests • Rags, baled
• Glycol in combustible containers not • Rugs, without foam backing
exceeding 25 percent • Sugar, bagged
• Lubricating or hydraulic fluid in metal cans • Wood, baled
• Lumber • Wood doors, frames and cabinets
• Mattresses, excluding foam rubber and • Yarns of natural fiber and viscose
foam plastics
• Noncombustible liquids in plastic
containers having a capacity of more than
5 gallons (19 L)
• Paints, oil base, in metal cans
NFPA 13 - A Class III commodity shall be defined as a product fashioned from wood, paper, natural fibers
or Group C plastics with or without cartons, boxes, or crates and with or without pallets. Class III
commodities shall be permitted to contain a limited amount (5 percent by weight or volume or less) or
Group A or Group B plastics.

Class IV Commodities
IFC - Class IV commodities are Class I, II or III products containing Group A plastics in ordinary
corrugated cartons and Class I, II and III products, with Group A plastic packaging, with or without pallets.
Group B plastics and free-flowing Group A plastics are also included in this class. The total amount of
non-free-flowing Group A plastics shall be in accordance with Section 2303.7.4. Examples of Class IV
commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Aerosol, Level 2 (see Chapter 28)

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 • Alcoholic beverages, exceeding 20- • Linoleum products paints, oil base in
percent but less than 80-percent alcohol, combustible containers
in cans or bottles in cartons. • Pharmaceutical, alcoholic elixirs, tonics,
• Clothing, synthetic or nonviscose etc.
• Combustible metal products (solid) • Rugs, foam back
• Furniture, plastic upholstered • Shingles, asphalt
• Furniture, wood or metal with plastic • Thread or yarn, synthetic or nonviscose
covering and padding
• Glycol in combustible containers (greater
than 25 percent and less than 50 percent)
NFPA 13 - A Class IV commodity shall be defined as a product, with or without pallets, that meets one of
the following criteria: 1) Constructed partially or totally of Group B plastics; 2) Consists of free-flowing
Group A plastics materials; 3) Contains within itself or its packaging an appreciable amount (5 percent to
15 percent by weight or 5 percent to 25 percent by volume) of Group A plastics.

High Hazard Commodities

IFC - High-hazard commodities are high-hazard products presenting special fire hazards beyond those of
Class I, II, III or IV. Group A plastics not otherwise classified are included in this class. Examples of high-
hazard commodities include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Aerosol, Level 3 (see Chapter 28) • Mattresses, foam rubber or foam plastics
• Alcoholic beverages, exceeding 80- • Pallets and flats which are idle
percent alcohol, in bottles or cartons combustible
• Commodities of any class in plastic • Paper, asphalt, rolled, horizontal storage
containers in carousel storage • Paper, asphalt, rolled, vertical storage
• Flammable solids (except solid • Paper and pulp, rolled, in vertical storage
combustible metals) which is unbanded or not protected with
• Glycol in combustible containers (50 an approved wrap
percent or greater) • Pillows, foam rubber and foam plastics
• Lacquers, which dry by solvent • Pyroxylin
evaporation, in metal cans or cartons • Rubber tires
• Lubricating or hydraulic fluid in plastic • Vegetable oil and butter in plastic
containers containers

II. Plastic Commodities (Group A, B and C Plastics)

This list should facilitate the identification in grouping plastic commodities into an A, B, or C group type. If
difficulties still arise, contact the product manufacturer for the necessary information required to properly
group the type of plastic the facility stores. Submit this information to the Division of the Fire Marshal for
record.

Group A Plastics
Group A plastics are plastic materials having a heat of combustion that is much higher than that of
ordinary combustibles, and a burning rate higher than that of Group B plastics. Examples of Group A
plastics include, but are not limited to, the following:
• FRP (fiberglass-reinforced polyester)
• ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene
• Natural rubber (expanded)
copolymer)
• Nitrile rubber (acrylonitrile butadiene
• Acetal (polyformaldehyde)
rubber)
• Acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate)
• PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)
• Butyl rubber EPDM (ethylene propylene
• Polybutadiene
rubber)
• Polycarbonate

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Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
 • Polyester elastomer • PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than 15
• Polyethylene percent plasticized, e.g., coated fabric
• Polypropylene unsupported film)
• Polystyrene (expanded and unexpanded) • SAN (styrene acrylonitrile)
• Polyurethane (expanded and • SBR (styrene butadiene rubber
unexpanded)

Group B Plastics
Group B plastics are plastic materials having a heat of combustion and a burning rate higher than that of
ordinary combustibles, but not as high as those of Group A plastics. Examples of Group B plastics
include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Cellulosics (cellulose acetate, cellulose acetate butyrate, ethyl cellulose)
• Chloroprene rubber
• Fluoroplastics (ECTFE, ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethyl-ene copolymer; ETFE, ethylene-
tetrafluoroethylene copolymer; FEP, fluorinated ethylene-propylene copolymer)
• Natural rubber (non-expanded)
• Nylon (Nylon 6, Nylon 6/6)
• PVC (polyvinyl chloride greater than 5-percent, but not exceeding 15-percent plasticized)
• Silicone rubber

Group C Plastics
Group C plastics are plastic materials having a heat of combustion and a burning rate similar to those of
ordinary combustibles. Examples of Group C plastics include, but are not limited to, the following:
• Fluoroplastics (PCTFE, polychlorotrifluoroethylene; PTFE, polytetrafluoroethylene)
• Melamine (melamine formaldehyde) henol VC (polyvinyl chloride, rigid or plasticized less than 5
percent, e.g., pipe, pipe fittings)
• PVDC (polyvinylidene chloride)
• PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride)
• PVF (polyvinyl fluoride)
• Urea (urea formaldehyde)Mixed Commodities

III. Mixed Commodities

Unless otherwise specified in Chapter 23 of the International Fire Code, this section refers to mixed
commodities involving Group A plastics only. Group C plastics are considered Class III commodities and
Group B plastics are considered Class IV commodities, unless otherwise specified.

With that said, facilities typically contain some sort of plastic within their storage practices. The plastic
may be whole or part of the product itself or incorporated within the packaging or storing. Regardless,
when plastics are found within Class I, II, III or IV commodities, it is referred to mixed commodities. As
described previously, certain commodity classifications permit certain amount or percentages of specific
plastics without changing the commodity classification. The following will provide guidance in determining
the commodity classification when mixed commodities are present.

The percentage of plastics is a significant factor. The difference between percentages may be the
difference in fire sprinklers within the facility or not. Therefore, an accurate percentage of plastic
materials within the facility is required. Please note that this percentage of plastics is based on individual
pallet loads or cartons and is a function of the volume or weight of the packaging method for both
expanded and non expanded plastics. The definitions for each are below.

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Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
PLASTICS, NON EXPANDED Those plastics with high densities, solid, or not otherwise categorized as
expanded, such as polyethylene film, polystyrene toys, polyester and polystyrene plastic tote bins,
polyethylene 55-gallon drums or smaller containers, etc.
PLASTICS, EXPANDED (FOAMED OR CELLULAR) Those plastics, the density of which is reduced by
the presence of numerous small cavities (cells), interconnecting or not, dispersed throughout their mass.
Examples include Styrofoam peanuts and cups. (IFC, NFPA 13)
Two of three percentages are needed to accurately determine the correct commodity classification of
mixed commodities:
1) Percent by weight of expanded plastic
or
2) Percent by volume of expanded plastic
and
3) Percent by weight of unexpanded plastic
Percent by weight of expanded plastic. Based on the pallet load or per carton, this is the percentage of
weight of expanded plastics as compared to the total weight of the pallet or carton.
Percent by volume of expanded plastic. Based on the pallet load or per carton, this is the percentage
of volume of expanded plastics as compared to the total volume of the pallet or carton.
Percent by weight of unexpanded plastic. Based on pallet load or per carton, this is the percentage of
weight of unexpanded plastics as compared to the total volume of the pallet or carton.
It is important to note that the above percentages must all be based on either the pallet load or per carton.
This means that one percentage based on the pallet load and another percentage based on the carton is
not acceptable. All percentages must have the same common denominator so to speak.
Take a pallet load of bicycles for example. The amount of plastics (pedals, reflector, tires, handle bar
grips, etc.) is actually a very limited as compared to the metal (non-combustible) portions of the bicycle.
The percentage of plastics in the pallet load of bicycles may be 25% or ¼ of the total weight or volume of
the pallet. In another example of storing computers, the percentage of plastics may be as high as 75%,
due to computers being mostly plastic with some exceptions. Figure 2301.7.4 below is taken from the
2009 International Fire Code to assist in determining the percentage of Group A plastics being stored.
Note, this figure is only used when Group A plastics only are involved. Contact the Division of the Fire
Marshal with any questions.

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Figure 2302.7.4 MIXED COMMODITIES a,b

a. This figure is intended to determine the commodity classification of a mixed commodity in a package, carton or on a pallet where plastics are
involved.
b. The following is an example of how to apply the figure: A package containing a Class III commodity has 12-percent Group A expanded plastic
by volume. The weight of the unexpanded Group A plastic is 10 percent. This commodity is classified as a Class IV commodity. If the weight
of the unexpanded plastic is increased to 14 percent, the classification changes to a high-hazard commodity.
c. Percent by volume =
Volume of plastic in pallet load
Total volume of pallet load, including pallet
d. Percent by weight =
Weight of plastic in pallet load
Total weight of pallet load, including pallet.

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 COMMODITY CLASSIFICATION EXAMPLES

Alphabetized Listing of Commodity Classes Candy

Commodity Commodity Packaged, cartoned Class III
Class Canned Foods
Aerosols In ordinary cartons Class I
Cartoned or uncartoned Cans
- Level 1 Class III Metal
Alcoholic Beverages - Empty Class I
Cartoned or uncartoned Carpet Tiles
- Up to 20 percent alcohol in metal, glass, Class I Cartoned Group A plastics
or ceramic containers Cartons
- Up to 20 percent alcohol in wood Class II Corrugated
containers - Unassembled (neat piles) Class III
- Exceeding 20 percent but less than 80 Class IV - Partially assembled Class IV
percent alcohol in can or bottles Wax coated, single walled Group A plastics
Ammunition Cement
Small arms, shotgun Bagged Class I
- Packaged, cartoned Class IV Cereals
Appliances, Major (e.g., stoves, refrigerators) Packaged, cartoned Class III
- Not packaged, no appreciable plastic Class I Charcoal
exterior trim Bagged
- Corrugated, cartoned (no appreciable Class II - Standard Class III
plastic trim) Cheese
Baked Goods - Packaged, cartooned Class III
Cookies, cakes, pies - Wheels, cartoned Class III
- Frozen, packaged in cartons1 Class II Chewing Gum
- Packaged, in cartons Class III Packaged, cartoned Class III
Batteries Chocolate
Dry cells (nonlithium or similar exotic Packaged, cartoned Class III
metals) Cloth
- Packaged in cartons Class I Cartoned and not cartooned
- Blister-packed in cartons Class II - Natural fiber, viscose Class III
Automobile - Synthetic5 Class IV
- Filled2 Class I Cocoa Products
Truck or larger Packaged, cartoned Class III
- Empty or filled2 Group A plastics Coffee
Beans - Canned, cartooned Class I
Dried - Packaged, cartoned Class III
- Packaged, cartoned Class III Coffee Beans
Bottles, Jars Bagged Class III
Empty, cartooned Cotton
- Glass Class I Packaged, cartoned Class III
- Plastic PET (polyethylene terephthalate) Class IV Diapers
Filled noncombustible powders - Cotton, linen Class III
- Plastic PET Class II - Disposable with plastics and nonwoven Class IV
- Glass, cartooned Class I fabric (in cartons)
- Plastic, cartoned [less than 1 gal (3.8 L)] Class IV - Disposable with plastics and nonwoven Group A plastics
- Plastic, uncartoned (other than PET), any Group A plastics fabric (uncartoned), plastic wrapped
size Dried Foods
- Plastic, cartoned or exposed [greater Group A plastics Packaged, cartoned Class III
than 1 gal (3.8 L)] Fertilizers
- Plastic, solid plastic crates Group A plastics Bagged
- Plastic, open plastic crates Group A plastics - Phosphates Class I
Filled noncombustible liquids - Nitrates Class II
- Glass, cartooned Class I Fiberglass Insulation
- Plastic, cartoned [less than 5 gal (18.9 L)] Class I - Paper-backed rolls, bagged or unbagged Class IV
- Plastic, open or solid plastic crates3 Group A plastics File Cabinets
- Plastic, PET Class I Metal
Boxes, Crates - Cardboard box or shroud Class I
- Empty, wood, solid walls Class II Fish or Fish Products
- Empty, wood, slatted4 Outside of scope Frozen
Bread - Nonwaxed, nonplastic packaging Class I
Wrapped cartoned Class III - Waxed-paper containers, cartooned Class II
Butter - Boxed or barreled Class II
Whipped spread Class III - Plastic trays, cartoned Class III
Candles Canned
Packaged, cartooned - Cartoned Class I
- Treat as expanded plastic Group A plastics

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Frozen Foods Nuts
Nonwaxed, nonplastic packaging Class I - Canned, cartooned Class I
- Waxed-paper containers, cartooned Class II - Packaged, cartooned Class III
- Plastic trays Class III - Bagged Class III
Fruit Paints
Fresh Friction-top cans, cartooned
- Nonplastic trays or containers Class I - Water-based (latex) Class I
- With wood spacers Class I - Oil-based Class IV
Furniture Paper Products
Wood - Books, magazines, stationery, plastic- Class III
- No plastic coverings or foam plastic Class III coated paper food containers,
cushioning newspapers, cardboard games, or
- With plastic coverings Class IV cartoned tissue products
- With foam plastic cushioning Group A plastics - Tissue products, uncartoned and plastic Group A plastics
Grains — Packaged in Cartons wrapped
- Barley Class III Paper, Rolled
- Rice Class III In racks or on side
- Oats Class III - Medium- or heavyweight In racks Class III
Ice Cream Class I - Lightweight Class IV
Leather Goods Class III Paper, Waxed
Leather Hides Packaged in cartons Class IV
Baled Class II Pharmaceuticals
Light Fixtures Pills, powders
Nonplastic - Glass bottles, cartooned Class II
- Cartoned Class II - Plastic bottles, cartooned Class IV
Lighters Nonflammable liquids
Butane - Glass bottles, cartoned Class II
- Blister-packed, cartooned Group A plastics Photographic Film
- Loose in large containers (Level 3 Outside of scope - Motion picture or bulk rolls of film in Class II
aerosol) polycarbonate, polyethylene, or metal
Liquor cans; polyethylene bagged in cardboard
100 proof or less, 1 gal (3.8 L) or less, boxes
cartooned - 35-mm in metal film cartridges in Class III
- Glass (palletized)6 Class IV polyethylene cans in cardboard boxes
- Plastic bottles Class IV - Paper, in sheets, bagged in polyethylene, Class III
Marble in cardboard boxes
Artificial sinks, countertops - Rolls in polycarbonate plastic cassettes, Class IV
- Cartoned, crated Class II bulk wrapped in cardboard boxes
Margarine Plastic Containers (except PET)
- Up to 50 percent oil (in paper or plastic Class III - Noncombustible liquids or semiliquids in Class I
containers) plastic containers less than 5 gal (18.9 L)
- Between 50 percent and 80 percent oil Group A plastics capacity
(in any packaging) - Noncombustible liquids or semiliquids Class II
Matches (such as ketchup) in plastic containers with
Packaged, cartooned nominal wall thickness of ¼ in. (6.4 mm) or
- Paper Class IV less and larger than 5 gal (18.9) capacity
- Wood Group A plastics - Noncombustible liquids or semiliquids Group A plastics
Mattresses (such as ketchup) in plastic containers with
- Standard (box spring) Class III nominal wall thickness greater than ¼ in.
- Foam (in finished form) Group A plastics (6.4 mm) and larger than 5 gal (18.9 L)
Meat, Meat Products capacity
- Bulk Class I Polyurethane
- Canned, cartooned Class I - Cartoned or uncartoned expanded Group A plastics
- Frozen, nonwaxed, nonplastic containers Class I Poultry Products
- Frozen, waxed-paper containers Class II - Canned, cartooned Class I
- Frozen, expanded plastic trays Class II - Frozen, nonwaxed, nonplastic containers Class I
Metal Desks - Frozen (on paper or expanded plastic Class II
- With plastic tops and trim Class I trays)
Milk Powders
- Nonwaxed-paper containers Class I Ordinary combustibles — free flowing
- Waxed-paper containers Class I - In paper bags (e.g., flour, sugar) Class II
- Plastic containers Class I Rags
- Containers in plastic crates Group A plastics Baled
Motors - Natural fibers Class III
- Electric Class I - Synthetic fibers Class IV
Nail Polish Rubber
- 1-oz to 2-oz (29.6-ml to 59.1-ml) glass, Class IV - Natural, blocks in cartons Class IV
cartooned - Synthetic Group A plastics
- 1-oz to 2-oz (29.6-ml to 59.1-ml) plastic Group A plastics
bottles, cartooned

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Salt Wire
- Bagged Class I - Bare wire on metal spools on wood skids Class I
- Packaged, cartoned Class II - Bare wire on wood or cardboard spools Class II
Shingles on wood skids
- Asphalt-coated fiberglass Class III - Bare wire on metal, wood, or cardboard Class II
- Asphalt-impregnated felt Class IV spools in cardboard boxes on wood skids
Shock Absorbers - Single- or multiple-layer PVC-covered Class II
- Metal dust cover Class II wire on metal spools on wood skids
- Plastic dust cover Class III - Insulated (PVC) cable on large wood or Class II
Signatures metal spools on wood skids
Books, magazines - Bare wire on plastic spools in cardboard Class IV
- Solid array on pallet Class II boxes on wood skids
Skis - Single- or multiple-layer PVC-covered Class IV
- Wood Class III wire on plastic spools in cardboard boxes
- Foam core Class IV on wood skids
Stuffed Toys - Single, multiple, or power cables (PVC) Class IV
Foam or synthetic Group A plastics on large plastic spools
Syrup - Bulk storage of empty plastic spools Group A plastics
- Drummed (metal containers) Class I Wood Products
- Barreled, wood Class II - Solid piles — lumber, plywood, Class II
Textiles particleboard, pressboard (smooth ends
Natural fiber clothing or textile products Class III and edges)
Synthetics (except rayon and nylon) - Spools (empty) Class III
— 50/50 blend or less - Toothpicks, clothespins, hangers in Class III
- Thread, yarn on wood or paper spools Class III cartons
- Fabrics Class III - Doors, windows, wood cabinets, and Class III
- Thread, yarn on plastic spools Class IV furniture
- Baled fiber Group A plastics - Patterns Class IV
Synthetics (except rayon and nylon)
1
— greater than 50/50 blend The product is presumed to be in a plastic-coated package in a
- Thread, yarn on wood or paper spools Class IV corrugated carton. If packaged in a metal foil, it can be
- Fabrics Class IV considered Class I.
2
- Baled fiber Group A plastics Most batteries have a polypropylene case and, if stored empty,
- Thread, yarn on plastic spools Group A plastics should be treated as a Group A plastic. Truck batteries, even
Rayon and nylon where filled, should be considered a Group A plastic because of
- Baled fiber Class IV their thicker walls.
3
- Thread, yarn on wood or paper spools Class IV As the openings in plastic crates become larger, the product
- Fabrics Class IV behaves more like a Class III commodity. Conversely, as the
- Thread, yarn on plastic spools Group A plastics openings become smaller, the product behaves more like a
Tobacco Products plastic.
4
In paperboard cartons Class III These items should be treated as idle pallets.
5
Transformers Tests clearly indicate that a synthetic or synthetic blend is
Dry and oil filled Class I considered greater than Class III.
6
Vinyl-Coated Fabric When liquor is stored in glass containers in racks, it should be
Cartoned Group A plastics considered a Class III commodity; where it is palletized, it should
Vinyl Floor Coverings be considered a Class IV commodity.
- Tiles in cartons Class IV
- Rolled Group A plastics
Examples of Class I Commodities
Wax-Coated Paper
Alcoholic Beverages
Cups, plates
Cartoned or uncartoned
- Boxed or packaged inside cartons Class IV
- Up to 20 percent alcohol in metal, glass, or ceramic
(emphasis on packaging)
containers
- Loose inside large cartons Group A plastics
Appliances, Major (e.g., stoves, refrigerators)
Wax
- Not packaged, no appreciable plastic exterior trim
Paraffin/petroleum wax, blocks, cartoned Group A plastics
Batteries
Dry cells (nonlithium or similar exotic metals)
- Packaged in cartons
Automobile
- Filled*
Bottles, Jars
Empty, cartooned
- Glass
Filled noncombustible liquids
- Glass, cartooned
- Plastic, cartoned [less than 5 gal (18.9 L)]
- Plastic, PET
Filled noncombustible powders
- Glass, cartoned

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Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
Canned Foods Baked Goods
In ordinary cartons Cookies, cakes, pies
Cans - Frozen, packaged in cartons*
Metal Batteries
- Empty Dry cells (nonlithium or similar exotic metals) in blister pack in
Cement cartons
Bagged Bottles, Jars
Coffee Filled noncombustible powders
Canned, cartoned - Plastic PET
Fertilizers Boxes, Crates
Bagged Empty, wood, solid walls
- Phosphates Fertilizers
File Cabinets Bagged
Metal - Nitrates
- Cardboard box or shroud Fish or Fish Products
Fish or Fish Products Frozen
Frozen - Waxed-paper containers, cartooned
- Nonwaxed, nonplastic packaging - Boxed or barreled
Canned Frozen Foods
- Cartoned Waxed-paper containers, cartoned
Frozen Foods Leather Hides
Nonwaxed, nonplastic packaging Baled
Fruit Light Fixtures
Fresh Nonplastic
- Nonplastic trays or containers - Cartoned
- With wood spacers Marble
Ice Cream Artificial sinks, countertops
Meat, Meat Products - Cartoned, crated
- Bulk Meat, Meat Products
- Canned, cartooned - Frozen, waxed-paper containers
- Frozen, nonwaxed, nonplastic containers - Frozen, expanded plastic trays
Metal Desks Pharmaceuticals
- With plastic tops and trim Pills, powders
Milk - Glass bottles, cartoned
- Nonwaxed-paper containers Nonflammable liquids
- Waxed-paper containers - Glass bottles, cartoned
- Plastic containers Photographic Film
Motors - Motion picture or bulk rolls of film in polycarbonate,
- Electric polyethylene, or metal cans; polyethylene bagged in
Nuts cardboard boxes
- Canned, cartoned Plastic Containers
Paints Noncombustible liquids or semiliquids (such as ketchup) in
Friction-top cans, cartooned plastic containers with nominal wall thickness of ¼ in. (6.4
- Water-based (latex) mm) or less and larger than 5 gal (18.9 L) capacity
Plastic Containers Poultry Products
- Noncombustible liquids or semiliquids in plastic containers Frozen (on paper or expanded plastic trays)
less than 5 gal (18.9 L) capacity Powders (ordinary combustibles — free flowing)
Poultry Products In paper bags (e.g., flour, sugar)
- Canned, cartooned Salt
- Frozen, nonwaxed, nonplastic containers Packaged, cartoned
Salt Shock Absorbers
Bagged Metal dust cover
Syrup Signatures
Drummed (metal containers) Book, magazines
Transformers - Solid array on pallet
Dry and oil filled Syrup
Wire Barreled, wood
Bare wire on metal spools on wood skids Wire
*Most batteries have a polypropylene case and, if stored empty, - Bare wire on wood or cardboard spools on wood skids
should be treated as a Group A plastic. Truck batteries, even - Bare wire on metal, wood, or cardboard spools in cardboard
where filled, should be considered a Group A plastic because of boxes on wood skids
their thicker walls. - Single- or multiple-layer PVC-covered wire on metal spools
on wood skids
- Insulated (PVC) cable on large wood or metal spools on
Examples of Class II Commodities
wood skids
Alcoholic Beverages
Wood Products
Up to 20 percent alcohol in wood containers
Solid piles
Appliances, Major (e.g., stoves)
- Lumber, plywood, particle board, pressboard (smooth ends
Corrugated, cartoned (no appreciable plastic trim)
and edges)

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Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
*The product is in a plastic-coated package in a corrugated Paper Products
carton. If packaged in a metal foil, it can be considered Class I. Books, magazines, stationery, plastic-coated paper food
containers, newspapers, cardboard games, cartoned tissue
products
Examples of Class III Commodities
Paper, Rolled
Aerosols
In racks or on side
Cartoned or uncartoned
- Medium or heavyweight
- Level 1
Photographic Film
Baked Goods
- 35-mm in metal film cartridges in polyethylene cans in
Cookies, cakes, pies
cardboard boxes
- Packaged, in cartons
- Paper, in sheets, bagged in polyethylene, in cardboard
Beans
boxes
Dried
PVC (polyvinyl chloride)
- Packaged, cartoned
- Flexible (e.g., cable jackets, plasticized sheets)
Bread
- Rigid (e.g., pipe, pipe fittings)
Wrapped, cartoned
- Bagged resins
Butter
Rags
Whipped spread
Baled
Candy
- Natural fibers
Packaged, cartoned
Shingles
Cartons
Asphalt-coated fiberglass
Corrugated
Shock Absorbers
- Unassembled (neat piles)
Plastic dust cover
Cereals
Skis
Packaged, cartoned
Wood
Charcoal
Textiles
Bagged
Natural fiber clothing or textile products
- Standard
Synthetics (except rayon and nylon) —
Cheese
50/50 blend or less
- Packaged, cartooned
- Thread, yarn on wood or paper spools
- Wheels, cartoned
- Fabrics
Chewing Gum
Tobacco Products
Packaged, cartoned
In paperboard cartons
Chocolate
Wood Products
Packaged, cartoned
- Spools (empty)
Cloth
- Toothpicks, clothespins, hangers in cartons
Cartoned and not cartooned
- Doors, windows, wood cabinets, and furniture
- Natural fiber, viscose
Cocoa Products
Packaged, cartoned Examples of Class IV Commodities
Coffee Ammunition
Packaged, cartoned Small arms, shotgun
Coffee Beans - Packaged, cartoned
Bagged Bottles, Jars
Cotton - Plastic PET (polyethylene terephthalate)
Packaged, cartoned Empty, cartoned
Diapers Filled noncombustible powders
Cotton, linen - Plastic, cartoned [less than 1 gal (3.8 L)]
Dried Foods Cartons
Packaged, cartoned Corrugated
Fish or Fish Products - Partially assembled
Frozen Cloth
- Plastic trays, cartoned Cartoned and not cartooned
Frozen Foods - Synthetic1
Plastic trays Diapers
Furniture Disposable with plastics and nonwoven fabric (in cartons)
Wood Fiberglass Insulation
- No plastic coverings or foam plastic cushioning - Paper-backed rolls, bagged or unbagged
Grains — Packaged in Cartons Furniture
- Barley Wood
- Rice - With plastic coverings
- Oats Liquor
Margarine 100 proof or less, 1 gal (3.8 L) or less, cartooned
Up to 50 percent oil (in paper or plastic containers) - Glass (palletized)2
Mattresses - Plastic bottles
Standard (box spring) Matches
Nuts Packaged, cartooned
- Packaged, cartooned - Paper
- Bagged Nail Polish
1-oz to 2-oz (29.6-ml to 59.1-ml) glass, cartoned

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Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
Paints Bottles, Jars
Friction-top cans, cartooned Empty, cartooned
- Oil based - Plastic (other than PET), any size
Paper, Rolled Filled noncombustible liquids
In racks - Plastic, open or solid plastic crates2
- Lightweight Filled noncombustible powders
Paper, Waxed - Plastic, cartoned or uncartoned [greater than 1 gal (3.8 L)]
Packaged in cartons - Plastic, solid plastic crates
Pharmaceuticals - Plastic, open plastic crates
Pills, powders Candles
- Plastic bottles, cartoned Packaged, cartooned
Photographic Film - Treat as expanded plastic
- Rolls in polycarbonate plastic cassettes, bulk wrapped in Carpet Tiles
cardboard boxes Cartoned
PVA (polyvinyl alcohol) Resins Cartons
Bagged Wax coated, single walled
Rags Diapers
Baled Disposable with plastics and nonwoven fabric (uncartoned),
- Synthetic fibers plastic wrapped
Rubber Furniture
Natural, blocks in cartons Wood
Shingles - With foam plastic cushioning
Asphalt-impregnated felt Lighters
Skis Butane
Foam core - Blister-packed, cartoned
Textiles Margarine
Synthetics (except rayon and nylon) — Between 50 percent and 80 percent oil (in any packaging)
50/50 blend or less Matches
- Thread, yarn on plastic spools Packaged, cartooned
Synthetics (except rayon and nylon) — greater than 50/50 - Wood
blend Mattresses
- Thread, yarn on wood or paper spools Foam (in finished form)
- Fabrics Milk
Rayon and nylon Containers in plastic crates
- Baled fiber Nail Polish
- Thread, yarn on wood or paper spools 1-oz to 2-oz (29.6-ml to 59.1-ml) plastic bottles, cartoned
- Fabrics Paper Products
Vinyl Floor Coverings Tissue products, uncartoned and plastic wrapped
Tiles in cartons Plastic Containers
Wax-Coated Paper - Combustible or noncombustible solids in plastic containers
Cups, plates and empty plastic containers
Wire - Noncombustible liquids or semiliquids (such as ketchup) in
- Boxed or packaged inside cartons (emphasis is on plastic containers with nominal wall thickness greater than ¼
packaging) in. (6.4 mm) and larger than 5 gal (18.9 L) capacity
- Bare wire on plastic spools in cardboard boxes on wood Polyurethane
skids Cartoned or uncartoned expanded
- Single- or multiple-layer PVC-covered wire on plastic spools Rubber
in cardboard boxes on wood skids Synthetic
- Single, multiple, or power cables (PVC) on large plastic Stuffed Toys
spools Foam or synthetic
Wood Products Textiles
Patterns Synthetics (except rayon and nylon) —
1
Tests clearly indicate that a synthetic or synthetic blend is 50/50 blend or less
considered greater than Class III. - Baled fiber
2
Where liquor is stored in glass containers in racks, it should be Synthetics (except rayon and nylon)— greater than 50/50
considered a Class III commodity; where it is palletized, it should blend
be considered a Class IV commodity. - Baled fiber
- Thread, yarn on plastic spools
Rayon and nylon
Examples of Group A Plastic Commodities
- Thread, yarn on plastic spools
Batteries
Vinyl-Coated Fabric
Truck or larger
Cartoned
- Empty or filled1
Vinyl Floor Coverings
Rolled
Wax-Coated Paper
Cups, plates
- Loose inside large cartons
Wax
Paraffin/petroleum wax, blocks, cartoned

Colorado Springs Fire Department Page 14 of 15 1/07

Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS
 2
Wire As the openings in plastic crates become larger, the product
Bulk storage of empty plastic spools behaves more like Class III. Conversely, as the openings
1
Most batteries have a polypropylene case and, if stored empty, become smaller, the product makeup behaves more like a
should be treated as a Group A plastic. Truck batteries, even plastic.
where filled, should be considered a Group A plastic because of
their thicker walls.

Colorado Springs Fire Department Page 15 of 15 1/07

Commodity Classifications SMC/SDS