International Fire Codes (IFC)
Listed below you will find IFC codes for various chemicals, their hazards, and generalized storage recommendations. If you need an in depth inventory of chemicals in your lab, faculty and staff can request a log in and password to the CHIMERA Inventory System. You can also request a hard copy of your laboratory chemicals.
| Codes | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|
| COR | Acids and bases | Acids should be segregated from all other materials preferably in an acids cabinet. Within the acid category oxidizing acids should be segregated from organic acids. Bases should be segregated from all other materials. |
| OX1, OX2, OX3, OX4 | Oxidizing agents | Oxidizing agents should be stored away from reducing agents and combustible/flammable materials. |
| EXP | Potentially explosive materials | Should be individually analyzed and stored according to manufacturer recommendations. |
| WR1, WR2, WR3 | Water reactive materials | Should be stored in cool, dry place away from any water source. |
| PYR | Pyrophoric chemicals | Should be stored in a cool, dry place making provisions for an airtight seal. |
| OP1, OP2, OP3, OP4, OP5, OPD | Organic peroxides | Must be properly managed and disposed of within recommended time periods. Label containers with receiving, opening and disposal dates. |
| F1A, F1B, F1C, CL2, C3A, C3B | Flammable & combustible liquids | Should be stored in a flammable liquids cabinet segregated from other types of chemicals. |
| UR1, UR2, UR3, UR4 | Unstable/reactive |
Further evaluation for compatibility within this category must occur. Unstable/reactive chemicals generally have storage precautions specified by the manufacturer. |
| NON | Non-hazardous | Can generally be stored in general chemical storage area unless special storage is indicated by the manufacturer. |
Chemicals with Health Hazards
Chemicals with health hazards including irritants (IRR), carcinogens (CAR), sensitizers (SEN), toxic (TOX), highly toxic (HTX) and other health hazard (OHH) should be stored in a specially designated "health hazard" cabinet.