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 . 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.