c-99 FDNY (CNG) COMPRESS NATURAL GAS

Alcohol blended motor fuel

Gasoline blended with ethanol or other alcohol l concentration greater than 15 percent by volume

Breakaway Device

Device which used in case the vehicle begins to move away while the hose is still attached, prevents the hose from tearing apart

Certified Attendant

A person holding a certificate of fitness for the supervision and dispensing of motor fuel at fleet motor fuel dispensing facilities, full service motor fuel - dispensing facilities and self service motor fuel -dispensing facilities. Certified attendant shall be responsible for ensuring that the facility is maintained in accordance with this NYC Fire Code and the NYC Fire Rules.

CNG

compressed natural gas

Dispensing Device, over head type

A dispensing device mounted above a dispensing area, typically within a canopy structure, and characterized by the use of an overhead hose reel

full service motor fuel-dispensing facility

A motor fuel-dispensing facility wherein motor fuel is dispensing into the fuel tank of motor vehicles, motorcycles, marine vessels, or watercraft by a certified attendant, by persons employed by or on behalf of the owner of the facility

Fleet Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facility

A motor fuel-dispensing facility wherein motor fuel is stored and /or dispensed into the fuel tank of a motor vehicle, motorcycle, marine vessel or watercraft owned or operations are conducted by persons employed by or on behalf of the owner of the facility. Operations is under the personal supervision of C-99 COF holder.

General supervision

Supervision by the holder of the FDNY certificate who is responsible for performing the duties of the certificate of fitness holder but need not be personally present on the premises at all time.

liquefied natural gas (LNG)

A fluid in the liquid state composed predominantly of methane and which may contain minor quantities of ethane, profane, nitrogen or other components normally found in natural gas.

Liquid motor fuel

Gasoline, diesel fuel or other flammable or combustible liquids used as fuel in the operation of motor vehicles, motorcycles, marine vessels and watercraft.

Liquid motor fuel storage and dispensing system

A liquid motor fuel storage tank and all motor fuel storage and dispensing equipment associated with such tank, including the tank,piping, valves, fill connection catchment basins, vent lines, pumps, dispensing devices and any other ancillary equipment.

Mobile CNG motor fuel system

A CNG motor fuel system mounted on a vehicle chassis, intended to be driven to different sites for the purpose of dispensing CNG into portable containers, storage system or motor vehicle mounted containers.

Mobile CNG Cascade

Mulitiple CNG containers connected together by rigid steel pipe or tubing, mounted on a trailer or motor vehicle chassis, and intended to be driven ot towed to different sites for the purpose of dispensing CNG into portable or motor vehicle -mounted containers

Motor vehicle

an automobile, motorcycle, or other kind of vehicle (except on rails) which is run by an engine or motor in the vehicle itself

Personal Supervision

Supervision by the holder of any FDNY Certificate of fitness is required to be personally present on the premises, or other proximate location acceptable to the FDNY, while performing the duties for which the certificate is required

Self service motor fuel -dispensing facility

A motor fuel-dispensing facility wherein motor fuel is dispensed by customers of the facility from motor fuel storage and dispensing system into the fuel tank of motor vehicles or motorcycles

Stationary CNG fuel system

A CNG motor fuel system which is permanent installed and connected to a natural gas main. It is not intended to be moved in a course of normal use.

Compressed Natural Gas

CNG is a mixture of flammable hydrocarbon gases and vapors consisiting primarily of methane in a compressed gaseous form

CNG inits natural state

CNG is an orderless, tasteless and nontoxic gas,weighing two-thirds the weight of air.

CNG CAUSES

Asphyxiation if released into a confined area. Symtoms of suffocation will begin to occur when oxygen levels are less than 19%.

c-99 Certificate of fitness responsiblities

The certificate of fitness holder's primary function shall be to supervise, observe and moniter the dispensing of CNG. Th certified attendant shall. 1. Prevent the dispensing of CNG into portable containers(except at outdoor utility-operated facililties) 2. Control sources of ignition 3. Take immediate action on a fire,leak,or other emergency 4. Be ready to use a portable fire extiguisher

a permit is also required to maintain or operate the following types of motor fuel dispensing facilities

full service, self service,fleet service

Supervision

C-99 certificate of fitness holder shall conduct a daily visual inspection of the dispensing area per shift to monitor the condition of such installation of Full service and Self service.

Supervision of a C-99 certificate of fitness holder

The dispensing of motor fuel at a full-service motor fuel-dispensing facilities, fleet motor fuel-dispensing facilities and self-service motor fuel dispensing facilities shall be conducted by or under the personal supervision of a certified attendant, who shall be responsible for ensuring thet dispensing operations are conducted accordingly.

Maintenance

maintenance of a CNG motor fuel-dispensing systems shall be conducted under Personal Supervision of a person holding a c-99 Certificate of fitness

C-99 must make sure in maintenance

That the CNG station is serviced according to the manufacturer's recommendations,for example Certificate of fitness holder should make sure that the compressor's oil is changed periodically. the cof holder should not mix different viscosity or brands of oil in the CNG system , each time the oil is changed the affected oil must be checked for leaks using a soap and water solution.

welding, cutting or similar hot work may be conducted for emergency repair

Permission and work permit from FDNY AND WORK TO BE DONE BY a certificate of fitness holder

C-99 COF holder supervises, observe and monitor the dispening of fuel on a daily basis

Full service, Self service and Fleet service

Dispensing motor fuel at a Facility and personal supervision

A certified Attendant

C-99 COF

Shall notify the owner and make any other notifications required by this code if there is any evidence that the installation is not in good working order.A record of such inspections shall be maintained at the premises in accordance with FC107.7(FC2208.1.13.1)

Self-Service Dispensing

Approved self-service devices, equipment and system such as, but not limited to, card-operated and remote-preset types, are allowed at at CNG motor fuel-despensing facilities.

Certified Attendant responsibility

Shall set the dispensing device in the "off" position when not in use ,if such dispensing device can not be activated without the certified attendants knowledge.

Control Booth

Shall be located on the premises of every self-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility.The Control Booth shall be designed and located so that the certified Attendant stationed shall have a full, unobstructed clear view of dispensing operations. Except that mirrors or an approved closed-circuit television installation shall mean that the image on the moniter shall be of such brightness and resolution as to allow ready identification of individuals and easy observations of activities at all times of day.

CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities

Shall be located at a sit operated by natural gas utility, or other approved location.

Persons dispensing CNG at a self service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility

Shall hold a valid driver's license or be at least 18 years old, certified attendant, or facility personnel may require ID, drivers license to prove age.

C-99 cof holder Can

shall be able to engage in other activities such as collection of money or processing of credit cards so long as such activities do not interfere with the Certified Attendants ability to supervise, observe, and monitoring the dispensing of fuel

Operational and Maintenance Requirements

1. The CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility shall be operated so that movement of motor vehicles is orderly and consistent with the logical operation of the facility.2. Motor vehicles SHALL NOT be repaired in dispensing areas.

Dispensing equipment used at fleet CNG motor fuel dispensing facilities

Shall be programmed or set to limit uninterrupted CNG delivery to an approved amount and require a manual action to resume delivery.

CNG motor fuel dispensing facility

No Smoking and shut your engines off

General Dispensing Operation

1. Inspections of dispensing areas , the certified attendant resposible for supervision of the dispensing of CNG SHALL inspect the dispesing area on a daily basis and notify the owner and make any notifications required by this code if there is any evidence that the facility is not in good working order.

Dispensing

may be initiated by a remote switch located in the kiosk or control booth by a certified attendant, or activated by a card reader at the dispensing area by the Authorized driver

CNG Dispenser

must stop the filling operation when nozzle has been removed from the vehicle(disconnected)

A mobile CNG motor fuel compression, storage or dispensing system

may be used to fuel vehicle-mounted containers as approved by the commissioner and subject to such conditions as the commissioner may prescribe consistent with public safety

Methods of Discharge(Defueling)

The discharge of CNG from motor vehicle containers shall be accomplished through a closed transfer system or an approved method of atmospheric venting

Closed Transfer System

An FDNY procedure for discharging the container shall include the actions the operator will take in the event of a low-pressure natural gas release during the discharge activity

Atmospheric Venting

1.An FDNY approved schematic design document shall illustrate the location of the vessel support, piping, the method of grounding and bonding.2. Amethod of rigidly supporting the container during the venting of CNG shall be provided. The selected method shall provide not less than two points of support and shall prevent the horizontal and lateral movement of the container.3. The structure or appurtenance used for supporting the container shall be grounded in accordance with electrical code.4. The container valve shall be bonded prior to the commencement of venting operations.

Vent Tube

1.A Vent tube that will divert the gas flow to the atmosphere shall be installed on the container prior to commencement of the venting and purging operation.2.The Vent tube shall e capable of dispersing the gas a minimum of 10 feet above grade level.3. The Vent tube shall not be provided with a rain cap or other feature that would limit or obstruct the gas flow.4. At the connection fitting of the vent tube and the CNG container, a listed bidirectional flame arrester shall be provided.

Separation Distance for Atmospheric Venting of CNG

Equipment or feature, buildings 25 feet,building openings 25 feet, lot lines 15 feet , public street or private roads 15 feet, Vehicles 25 feet, CNG compressor and storage containers 25 feet, CNG dispensers 25 feet

dispensing Equipment

Hoses,(NFPA), metallic hoses, flexible meal hoses,tubing, and their connections shall be compatible for use with natural gas service and designed or selected for the most severe pressures and temperatures under normal operating conditions witha burst pressure of at least 4 times the service pressure.

Breakaway device

is used incase vehicle begins to move away while the hose is still attached

C-99 COF holder duty

Hoses shall be tested for leaks wit soapsuds or equivalent leak detection method at least annually by a C-99 COF holder and must be replaced if damaged . An annual record of visual inspections must be maintained on site for at least 4 years after inspection.

Hose Marking

Hoses shall be distinctly marked by the manufacturers permanently attached tag or by distinct markings indicating the manufacturer's namr or trademark, applicable service identifier and design pressure.

Vehicle fueling connection

connector for hoses that connect cylinders or containers being charged must have an approved coupling. they shall be rated for service and pressure intended and designed to withstand twice the maximum filling pressure , and equipped to prevent the leakage on connecting or disconnecting to cylinders or container being filled. Accidental disconnects of the hose must also cause automatic shutoff of gas flow.

Hoses used for the dispensing of CNG

must be connected to the dispenser by means of quick disconnect coupling. This coupling will separate and automatically stop the flow of gas from the dispenser if a vehicle should pull away during dispensing operations

other emergency shutoff systems

Excess flow valve and other shutoff system must be provided in dispensing system lines to provide for emergency shutoff in the event of pipe breakage, hos rupture or hose separation from dispenser.

Control Booth(applicable only to self service CNG Stations)

The control booth shall be an interior or exterior enclosure to which public has no access.1. the certified attendant shall be present within the control booth while dispensing operations are conducted.2. Audio and Visual alarms that are required for CNG stations shall actuate within the control booth.3. A properly labeled manual switch that activates the emergency shut-down device shall be located within the control booth.4. A console that controls the self service CNG motor fuel dispensers shall be provided within th control booth and within 5 feet of the emergency shut down device manual switch.5, Approved self service devices, equipment and systems such as, but not limited to, card operated and remote reset types, are allowed at CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities. The certified attendant shall set the dispensing devices in the off position when not in use if such dispensing device can be activated without the certified attendant's knowledge.6. A two way voice communication system shall be installed to provide contact between the control booth and each dispensing island.7. The control booth shall be designed and located so that the certified attendant stationed there in shall have a full, unobstructed clear view of dispension operations.

Control Booth requirements

1. Housekeeping, keep booth clean 2. operating manual 3.Portable fire Extinguishers

shut down operations

Manual valves ,remote manual valve , automatic shutoff valve, emergency shutdown switches out doors 75 feet but less than 25 feet from fuel dispenser

Remote manual shutoff valve

C-99 Certicte holder must make sure that the valve is protected against physical damage and kept accessible at all times.

shut down

An approved sign shall be posted on or immediately adjacent to such switches and shall read: EMERGENCY CNG SHUTOFF

CNG Stations

The NYC Fire Department recognizes and approves the use of three types of CNG stations in New York City: stationary stations, mobile stations, and mobile cascades.These stations are used to dispense CNG at regulated pressures into DOT approved cylinders or containers.

Stationary CNG Stations

Stationary CNG are commonly installed in utility companies or other locations deemed suitable by the fir commissioner, including automotive service stations, bus depots, and fleet garages. The Stationary CNG station consists of an assembly of components, which include a compressor ,a dispenser, valves and piping, and storage system.

The compressor

is used to draw the gas from distribution pipeline and compress it into the storage system. Then the CNG id dispensed from the storage system into cylinders mounted on motor vehicles. Fire Department regulations require stationary CNG stations to be located outdoors at grade level.

Mobile CNG Stations

A mobile CNG station consists of an assembly of components, which includes compressors, cylinders and dispensers, mounted on a motor vehicle.Mobile stations are designed to draw CNG supply source and dispense it into motor vehicle mounted cylinder(s). Several Fire Department regulations must be obeyed when operated mobile CNG stations.

Design and installation Requirements

Label reading"MANUAL CYLINDER SHUT OFF VALVE" in lettering a minimum of 1/2" high shall be placed on the appropriate access doors. hoses, hose connections, dispensers, gas detection systems and electrical equipment used for CNG shall be listed. Vehicle-fueling connections shall be listed and labeled. 1. Vehicle fueling hose shall be compatible with CNG and shall withstand a pressure of at least four times the service pressure.Hoses shall be designed as to be protected against physical damage. 2. Hoses shall be checked for leaks with noncorrosive solution or equivalent leak detection method at least annually by a certified attendant and shall be replaced if damaged.

Fire Safety Precautions

A. Mobile CNG motor fuel system may only be operated outdoors.B. The engine and ignition system of the mobile CNG motor fuel system and motor vehicle into which CNG is being dispensed shall be off during dispensing operations. The compressor may remain active during stationary operations. C. The wheels of such mobile systems shall be chocked during compressing or dispensing operations. D.Motor vehicles into which CNG is being dispensed shall be electrically bonded or grounded to the mobile CNG motor fuel system. E. A cellular telephone by which fires or other emergencies maybe reported to the fire department shall be provided to the certificate of fitness holder responsible for the operation of the mobile CNG motor system. F. Each mobile CNG motor fuel system shall be well lighted whenever dispensing is being conducted. H. The mobile station's wheels must be chocked to prevent movement.

Mobile CNG Cascades

A mobile CNG consists of several cylinders mounted on a trailer or motor vehicle. CNG is stored inside the cylinders under pressure and the cylinders are connected with steel piping. The C-99 certificate of fitness holder transfers the CNG from the mobile cascade into the vehicle mounted cylinders. Mobile cascades are commonly used as a temporary CNG supply when there is a problem with a stationary CNG station.

CNG containers and shut off valves shall be color-coded as follows

High pressure is black, Medium pressure is green, Low pressure is orange

CNG Equipment

Compressor assembly includes the compressor, interstage piping, storage vessels, pressure relief devices, and a control panel

Pressure limiting device

An automatic pressure-limiting device,designed to automatically shut down the compressor when the gas discharge pressure reaches dangerous levels, must be installed on each CNG station. This prevents the cylinder frombeing overcharged and ruptured.

control panel for CNG station

The compressor building

Smoking at a CNG Facility

fine is $500 and imprisonment up to 6 months

CNG containers

Design and Installation (NFPA), containers shall be manufactured , inspected ,marked,tested, retested, equipped, and used in accordance with the following: U.S. Department of Transportation(DOT) or transport Canada (TC) regulations,exemptions, or special permits.Approved cylinders and containers are stamped or labeled with dot or ASME approval markings.

Minimum Clearance

The certificate of fitness holder must make sure that flammable and combutible materials ,liquids, gases,etc are kept a minimum distance away from CNG stations and storage areas.

safety devices

c-99 must know and understand how these devices operate

Signage

No smoking signs, turn off engine sign, durable signs and warning signs

It shall be unlawful to

operate a self service marine CNG motor fuel dispensing facility, or fill a portable container, other than permanently mounted fuel containers on CNG-powered vehicles (except outdoors at a utility operated facility).

Gas Detection system

Indoor compressing, indoor storage, and indoor dispensing areas shall be provided with combustible gas detection alarm system meeting the standards of the constuction codes, including the building code. Gas detection systems shall activate a local audible and visual alarm at 20 percent of the LEL and automatically shut off gas supply at 50 percent of the LEL, with simultaneous transmission of an alarm to the Fire Department by an approved central station company.The automatic shutoff valve shall be located upstream from the confined high pressure piping and shall be installed underground or otherwise protected from exposure to fire in a approved manner.

Fire Extinguishers

AT least one portable fire extinguisher dry chemical or equivalent fire extinguishers must be installed at each CNG Station. COF holder must know how to operate extinguisher in a safe manner and know the difference of each fire extinguisher

Class A fire extinguisher is used for what type of flammable material(s)?

ordinary combustibles wood, and paper plastics

Class B fire extinguisher

Used for flammable liquids and gases such as paint, gasoline, oil, and cooking fats

Class C fire extinguisher

puts out electrical equipment fires

Symbols painted on fire extinguishers

A symbol with a shaded back ground and a slash indicates that the extinguisher must not be used for that type of fire. COF holder must know what each fire extinguisher is for and and kept i good working order at all times

Records(Maintenance log book)

A maintenance log shall be kept on the premises for inspection by any fire department representative . Such a log shall list all COF holders with their COF numbers and certificate expiration dates. Entries in such a log book shall be of daily inspections, repairs of any system, and any unusual occurrences.

The Certificate holder

should keep a comprehensive record of all incidents (such as fire,leak,device,equipment or system failure, out of ser vice fire protection, alarm,or safety system)and of equipment maintenance. These records should be maintained on the premises for a minimum of 4 years and should be made available to Fire Department representatives upon request.

Testing

All new or replaced CNG station gas piping must be hydrostatically pressure tested, in the presence of a fire department inspector, at twice the maximum operating pressure for one hour. in case of a pre- fabricated system , a notarized certificate from the manufacturer attesting to satisfactory completion of the said test is acceptable. All tie in connections and stainless steel tubing utilizing compression fittings must be tested for leaks using the soap and water solution test

Vehicle fueling hoses must be tested

for leaks using soap and water test at least annually by a C-99 COF holder .Defective or damaged components must be replaced promptly. Annual record of visual inspections must be maintained on site for at least 4 years after inspection, CNG cylinders and containers must be hydrostatically tested every 5 years or more frequently if required by the DOT

Inspections

The C-99 Certificate of fitness holder should ensure that the fire protection system are fully charged at all times and that all schedule inspections,service,and repairs are performed.

Daily Inspections

The COF holder shall conduct an inspection of the facility on at least a daily basis, and document such inspection in the log book. the inspection should verify that: 1. The heat detector are undamaged and unobstructed. 2. Portable fire extinguishers have been serviced and have adequate pressure. 3. The remote manual release (shutdown) is clear of obstructions. 4. Audible and visual alarms are in good working order. 5. Emergency and signage is posted, unobstructed and legible. 6. Required lighting is in good working order. 7. Any mirrors or approved closed-circuit television used to onitor dispensing operations are in good working order. 8. The voice communications system is in good working order.

FDNY Inspections

Fire Department inspectors will conduct periodic inspections of the CNG Station and all required permits. Enforcement action maybe taken against the certificate of fitness holder and the owner of the CNG station when the fire Department regulations are not obeyed, or permits are not secured and posted. These actions may include fines and revocations of the certficate of fitness

P.A.S.S.

Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep STAND 20 FEET BACK AIM AT BASE OF FIRE

Equipment or feature minimum separation

25 FEET buildings, building openings,vehicles, CNG compressor and storage, and CNG dispenser

Different feet Equipment or feature minimum separation

15 FEET lot lines, public streets or private roads

Control Booth

has 2 fire extinguishers with at least 40-b:c rating

Emergency shut down switches for outdoors

shall be located within 75 feet of, but less than 25 feet from the fuel dispenser

Each mobile CNG motor fuel system shall be provided with a portable fire extiguisher having at least a

20-B:C rating

Labels reading "compressed Natural Gas "

should be in red lettering, on contrasting back ground in a minimum of six inches high shall be placed on each side and rear of the mobile CNG casacde

Fire Extinguisher

A real hologram strip is 3 inches long by 1/4 wide. Counterfiet tags will have a high quality silver hologram and hologram on a counterifet tag will not change color as it moved against the light

Portable fire extinguishers

are required to be checked monthly

All portable fire Extinguishers

at least annually by a W-96 COF holder from a FDNY approved company