Fire Safety
The appropriate level of fire protection is a frequently asked question by those
converting to and using plastic packaging. Many state and local laws specifically
address the safe use of plastics pallets. Click below for a pamphlet developed by the
Reusable Container & Pallet Association as a resource for resolving any of
your concerns.
Note, this brochure references Codes that may have been revised since
its print date. For updated codes, contact the referenced agency.
Fire Protection Considerations Brochure
NOTICE -- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Code 13 sets standards for
fire protection and specifically addresses requirements for the use of plastic pallets.
Please refer to NFPA 13 or your risk management department for more information.
RCPA Fire Test Task Group Report
In 2001, six member companies of the RCPA joined together to fund the fire testing of
plastic pallets in coordination with TVA Fire Security Life Safety and UL. The reasons for
the testing included the fact that plastic pallets were being targeted as a potential fire
hazard and a proposal to NFPA 13 sought to increase protection for in-use plastic pallets.
Our research objectives were to show that the most prevalent pallets used in todays
marketplace need either a no-classification upgrade or no more than on classification
upgrade an to show that the most prevalent pallets used in todays marketplace can be
protected the same a s wood pallets using K-11.2 sprinklers.
A full report of the RCPA Fire Test Task Group is available for download from the
RCPA web site by clicking here:
RPCPC Fire Test Task Group Report.
RCPA member companies are concerned, conscientious manufacturers
affiliated with an industry association to provide voluntary standards for the mechanical,
structural design of reusable/returnable industrial plastic containers, pallets and packaging
material, and to formulate guidelines for their proper use, operation and maintenance.
Committed to the issue of safety and plastic pallets, we have taken a leadership role in
developing working relationships with:
National Association of State Fire Marshals (NASFM)
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
Factory Mutual Research Corporation (FM Global)
Industrial Risk Insurers (IRI)
Through some of these relationships our members have participated in and funded research
projects such as: sprinkler research with Factory Mutual; the testing of storage of
aluminum cans on plastic pallets; and participation in the development of FM 8-24.