Protecting Micro-Distilleries

The number of micro-distilleries in the U.S. has ballooned from just 500 in 2014, to more than 2,700 today, according to the American Craft Spirits Association. Like micro-breweries, these small-batch liquor production facilities are often tucked into urban spaces like strip malls, but unlike breweries, the beverages they produce are quite flammable. Today on the podcast, we are joined by an architect that specializes in micro-distillery design. He tells us more about how these distilleries operate, the associated hazards and fire protection considerations, and what AHJs should know (2:55).  Then, on a new Code Corner, NFPA Engineer Brian O'Connor goes into detail about considerations for the storage of alcohol and what guidance NFPA codes offer (37:02).  LINKS: Read a 2018 NFPA Journal feature story about the hazards and protection challenges of micro-distilleries.