Storage of Dangerous Goods

There are limitations on the quantities of Dangerous Goods which can be stored in any premise before special precautions must be taken.

The quantity stored will determine the method of storage and associated fire protection, prevention and suppression systems required. The Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations (2000) require all premises that handle and/or store Dangerous Goods to do so in a safe manner.

Companies or premises who store dangerous goods are required to complete an assessment of their business. The results of this assessment may see the need for a Fire Protection Report, the process for which is outlined below:

Fire Protection Report (under the Dangerous Goods (Storage and Handling) Regulations 2000)

1. Determine the quantity of dangerous goods on the site. Depending on the nature of the materials, the quantity may be classified as;
   • Placarding quantity
   • Manifest quantity
   • Fire Protection quantity

   *This is to be completed by reference to Schedule 2 in the Regulations. You can read the Dangerous Goods Regulations online at www.legislation.vic.gov.au. Your local CFA Regional Headquarters will also be able to help you get started.

2. If the quantity is "placarding" level, you should contact your local CFA Regional Headquarters to discuss fire protection and the location of placards.

   At "manifest" or "fire protection" levels, application should be made to CFA State Headquarters for a Fire Protection Report.

3. Forward the following to your Fire Authority:

   Application for Fire Service Written Advice Dangerous Goods (pdf 151k)
   To be completed IN FULL.
   Note: A schedule of Fees & Charges is included inside the application.

Which is my Relevant Fire Service?

Responsibility for Fire Protection throughout Victoria is shared by the Metropolitan Fire & Emergency Services Board (MFESB) and the Country Fire Authority (CFA).

Victorian Fire Services