scope:

Preface

For many years it was recognized that NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, could not possibly address every situation that might be encountered when storing and handling flammable and combustible liquids. Of necessity, a code must be written concisely and without extraneous text. It must be applied with judgment and awareness of the intent of its various provisions, because it cannot hope to address each specific situation. It was recognized that additional information would be a valuable adjunct to the code itself. This is the rationale for the Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code Handbook. Through eight editions, the handbook has grown to encompass two documents, NFPA 30 and NFPA 30A, and nine supplements. It explains the reasons for some of their provisions and provides additional background information that is intended to assist the user. The handbook is not a replacement for these codes. It can be thought of as a compilation of addenda to them.

Like the codes covered, this handbook will gradually evolve. Look for no revolutionary ideas here; the handbook will proceed at a pace dictated by the further development of its subject documents. You, the reader and user of this handbook, can participate in its evolution and growth. Where you feel there are omissions, errors, or other shortcomings in the commentary text, please bring them to NFPA's attention by writing to the Editors at NFPA's address. If you have examples of application of the codes that you think might be helpful to others, please share them. If there are places in the commentary where you think a photo or diagram would be helpful, we want to know that also. Your suggestions will be reviewed and acknowledged by the Editors.

If you have suggestions that relate to the actual provisions of one of the primary documents, a form and instructions for submitting proposals are included at the end of each NFPA code and standard or can be downloaded from the Codes and Standards page of NFPA's web site, www.nfpa.org. NFPA's Regulations Governing Committee Projects ensure that your proposed suggestion will be reviewed by the responsible technical committee and that you will be informed of any action taken.

Part I of the eighth edition of this handbook contains code text and commentary for the 2012 edition of NFPA 30, Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code, and Part II contains the code text and commentary of the 2012 edition of NFPA 30A, Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages. NFPA 30A has been a part of the handbook since it was first published, because it originally was a chapter in NFPA 30 and because the application of NFPA 30A is very closely connected with the requirements of NFPA 30, particularly with regard to fuel storage and piping systems. Part III, Supplements, contains additional information of interest to the user of NFPA 30 and NFPA 30A.