When storing flammable or combustible liquids in an indoor storage room, what ventilation system must be present?

When storing flammable or combustible liquids in an indoor storage room, a gravity or mechanical exhaust ventilation system must be present to ensure safety. This requirement is rooted in the need to prevent the accumulation of potentially hazardous vapors that can result from these substances.

Gravity ventilation utilizes natural airflow for the exchange of air, while mechanical exhaust systems actively remove potentially harmful vapors and replace them with fresh air. This is crucial because flammable vapors can create explosive mixtures when they reach certain concentrations in the air.

Implementing an effective exhaust system reduces the risk of fire and explosion by maintaining vapor concentrations below their lower explosive limits. Additionally, proper ventilation helps to mitigate the risk of inhalation exposure for anyone who might work in or near the storage area, promoting a safer work environment overall.

It's important for safety regulations and guidelines to mandate this kind of ventilation in order to manage these significant risks appropriately.