What is the minimum fire-resistance rating for the barrier that separates oxygen cylinders from other materials?

• A. 1 hour
• B. 2 hours
• C. 1/4 hour
• D. 1/2 hour

Answer: (D)

Oxygen cylinders are stored as oxidizers, so they can intensify a fire if they heat up. A barrier between the oxygen storage area and other materials is meant to slow heat transfer so the cylinders stay cooler long enough for firefighters to respond and for the situation to be controlled. The minimum fire-resistance rating used for this separation is a half-hour, which provides a practical safety window without being unnecessarily costly. Shorter ratings wouldn’t reliably protect the cylinders from heat in a real fire, while longer ratings are typically more than what’s required for this specific separation.