3905 Safety Systems — 2025 California Fire Code

For extraction processes utilizing flammable gases as solvents, a gas detection system complying with Section 916 shall be provided.

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PROCESSING AND EXTRACTION FACILITIES

3905.1.1 Operation. Activation of the gas detection system shall result in all the following:

1. Initiation of distinct audible and visual alarm signals in the extraction room.
2. Deactivation of all heating systems located in the extraction room.
3. Activation of the mechanical ventilation system, where the system is interlocked with gas detection.
4. De-energize all light switches and electrical outlets.

3905.1.2 Failure of the gas detection system. Failure of the gas detection system shall result in the deactivation of the heating system; activation of the mechanical ventilation system where the system is interlocked with the gas detection system; and initiation of a trouble signal to sound in an approved location.

Extraction processes utilizing gaseous hydrocarbon-based solvents shall be provided with emergency shutoff systems in accordance with Section 5803.1.3.

Continuous mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided in accordance with Sections 3905.3.1 through 3905.3.4 and Chapter 4 of the California Mechanical Code .

3905.3.1 Extraction processes using flammable or combustible liquids or gases. Continuous mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided where extraction processes use flammable or combustible liquids or gases. The mechanical exhaust ventilation shall provide a minimum airflow rate of not less than 5 cfm/ft [2 ] [0.0254 m [3] /(s × m [2] )] of floor area to prevent an accumulation of flammable vapors from exceeding 25 percent of the lower explosive limit (LEL).

Exception: Where the registered design professional demonstrates that an engineered mechanical exhaust ventilation system design will prevent the maximum concentration of contaminants from exceeding 25 percent of the LEL, the minimum required rate of exhaust shall be reduced in accordance with such engineered system design.

3905.3.2 Extraction processes using compressed asphyxiant or inert gases. Continuous mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided where extraction processes use compressed asphyxiant or inert gases. Mechanical exhaust ventilation shall be provided in accordance with Section 5307.2.

3905.3.3 Post-extraction processes using flammable or combustible liquids or gases. Where flammable liquids, combustible liquids heated above their flashpoint, or flammable gases are used in post-extraction processing the room or area shall be provided with continuous mechanical exhaust in accordance with Section 5004.3.

3905.3.4 Interlocks. Interlocks shall be provided where electrical equipment and appliances are used in processes that generate flammable vapors or gases. Such equipment and appliances shall be interlocked with ventilation fans so that the equipment and appliances cannot be operated unless the exhaust ventilation fans are in operation.

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CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

CHAPTER 40 – STORAGE OF DISTILLED SPIRITS AND WINES

(Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

• The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 19, Division 1 provisions that are found in the California Fire Code are a reprint from the current CCR, Title 19, Division 1 text for the code user’s convenience only. The scope, applicability and appeals procedures of CCR, Title 19, Division I remain the same. The state agency does not adopt sections identified by the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.

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