Bulk Solvent Distribution Systems
Rick Ginn, XL Construction
Jeff Tarter, Integrated Engineering Services
Chemical inventories stored in research and development laboratories present many challenges to end users, architects, designers, builders, local city building officials, and fire departments, especially in general laboratory environments that utilize liquid chromatography equipment. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), ultra-performance liquid chromatography, and superficial fluid chromatography all utilize solvents when performing these processes.
The introduction of solvent distribution and waste collection systems into the laboratory environment is one way to limit the amount of flammable liquids in laboratory general areas. The California Fire Code exempts limits for the hazardous materials that can be reduced on floors above grade levels. With the introduction of H3 occupancy spaces in to the laboratory building, dispensing and collecting solvents into and out of these laboratory general areas will assist in the reduction of chemical inventories in category B and L occupancy buildings.
Two types of solvent distribution systems will be discussed. One is a direct feed system that is hooked up directly to HPLCs and the other is a batch dispense system that is pumped to local fume hoods within the laboratory areas. Both of these systems are dispensed from H occupancy rooms to minimize the chemical inventories.
Biographies:
As an expert with more than 20 years of experience managing MEP and process piping systems, Rick Ginn has worked with top biopharmaceutical companies including Bayer, Genentech, Gilead Sciences, Johnson & Johnson, and Novartis.
Mr. Ginn's background includes MEP coordination for manufacturing, laboratory, and research and development facilities including pilot plants and Current Good Manufacturing Practice spaces. His experience includes the design and installation of multiple solvent systems within validated and occupied facilities.
As MEP Manager at XL Construction, Mr. Ginn focuses on technical projects for the life sciences industry and provides expertise in many areas, from Basis of Design creation to commissioning support. He is an active member of the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineers and holds a degree from the College of San Mateo.
Jeff Tarter has over more than years of chemical engineering and related environmental and hazardous materials consulting experience, which includes an extensive regulatory background and design experience focusing on hazardous materials management, process development, and chemical delivery and waste treatment systems. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in chemical engineering and is a Certified Hazardous Materials Manager.
Mr. Tarter is a former Hazardous Materials Plan's Examiner and Inspector for the San Jose Fire Department and continues to provide specialized code consulting services to various regulatory agencies, designers, and industry. He has spearheaded several hazardous material subcommittees for the Santa Clara County Fire Chief's Association, has actively participated on various code rewrite committees, and is currently serving on the California State Fire Marshal's ad-hoc committee for the continuing development of the L-Occupancy for Research and Development Laboratories.