The Massachusetts Comprehensive Fire Safety Code, 527 CMR 1.00, was revised as of January 1, 2018. The revisions mainly update this code by adopting the 2015 edition of NFPA 1, with amendments specific to Massachusetts. The previous version was based on the 2012 edition of NFPA 1.
Key revisions for life science companies include the adaptation of Chapter 26, Laboratories Using Chemicals, which is extracted from NFPA 45, and new provisions for alcohol-based hand rub dispensers. Section 1.12.8.37, Compressed Gases and Cryogenic Fluids, now includes three tables stipulating permit thresholds for cryogens and compressed gases. These specific thresholds were not in place in the previous version, and should be reviewed in detail if your facility stores and uses liquid nitrogen.
The Boston Fire Department has posted a notice that they are in the process of amending their requirements and permits to reflect these changes, and they expect this will take several weeks. Be sure to review the amendments to 527 CMR 1, and check with your local Fire Department to determine how they will implement these changes.