NFPA 232

Abstract

Scope: This standard provides minimum requirements for protection of records, records protection equipment and facilities, and the types of records specified within this standard from the hazards of fire. This standard provides requirements for the following categories of records storage environments in ascending order of increasing risk tolerance and descending protection requirements: (1) Vaults (2) Archives (3) File rooms (4) Compartmented records centers (5) Noncompartmented records centers This standard also provides the requirements for the application of the types of records protection equipment specified within this standard. This standard does not provide any requirements for the protection of cellulose nitrate film records. NFPA 40 shall be followed for protection requirements for cellulose nitrate film. This standard does not provide any requirements for the storage and handling of useful records. The responsible party, typically the owner of the records and not the authority having jurisdiction, shall determine classification of the records in accordance with this standard. The responsible party, typically the owner of the records and not the authority having jurisdiction, shall determine which records justify the application of this standard. Purpose. This standard is prepared for the use and guidance of those charged with purchasing, planning, surveying, classifying, retaining, designing, constructing, installing, inspecting, approving, listing, operating, or otherwise handling of records, or maintaining equipment and facilities that protect the types of records covered by this standard against the hazards of fire and its associated effects.