Locate light bulky materials in storerooms with high overhead clearances for maximum use of available space.  Segregate materials that are dissimilar in type or classification.  Locate frequently requested materials as close as possible to the point of issue.  Locate shelf-life items in a readily accessible area to facilitate periodic screening.  Install appropriate stowage aids (flashlight, paper, and pencil) in spaces where they are readily accessible.  Make aisles at least 30 inches wide, if possible.  Arrange material with identification labels facing outward to make issue and inventory easy.  Avoid multiple locations for the same item. If you follow the preceding criteria and guidelines, you should have no problems in maintaining your spaces and issuing and inventorying materials. SPECIAL STOWAGE OF ITEMS At times, you will have items that require special stowage. The Naval Ships’ Technical Manual (NSTM) and the Hazardous Materials Information System (HMIS), DoD 6050.5, outline the requirements for shipboard stowage of dangerous materials and lists the materials under each classification. We will now cover the classifications of material and discuss storage requirements for special types of material. Hazardous Material Hazardous material includes all types of compressed gases and materials that present a fire hazard or are otherwise dangerous. Paint and oil constitute the bulk of material in this category. Paint and flammable liquid storerooms are normally provided with alarm and CO₂ smothering systems that can be activated by automatic temperature-sensitive devices inside storerooms and by manual controls outside storerooms. A flooding system operated manually outside storerooms is an additional safety factor. These storerooms are located, when practical, below the full-load water line, near either end of the vessel, but not adjacent to a magazine. They are equipped with watertight doors that must be locked and dogged when not in use. Compressed Gases Stow compressed gases on the weather deck, and securely fasten them in a vertical position. Protect the cylinder valves from accumulations of ice and snow, and screen the cylinders from direct rays of the sun. NAVSUP P-485 contains more specific information concerning handling compressed gas cylinders. Acid Liquid acid, unless classified as safe material, is stowed in an acid locker. Acid lockers are leak-proof and lead-lined boxes, chests, or lockers specifically designed for stowing bottles or carboys of acid. Medical acids may be stored in a medical storeroom. Alcohol Alcohol should be stowed in a locked container in the paint and flammable liquid storeroom, to which only the supply officer (or other officer designated in writing by the commanding officer) has the key or combination. SHELF-LIFE MATERIAL Shelf-life material is subject to deterioration. These items are assigned a shelf-life code listed in the NMDL. The code denotes the shelf-life span of material from the date of manufacture to the date of disposal, or date of testing according to the inventory manager’s instructions to extend the shelf life. Type I codes (alpha) apply to items for which shelf life cannot be extended. Type II codes (numeric) apply to items for which shelf life may be extended. OTHER REPAIR PARTS Repair parts should be stored in their original containers. With today’s improving techniques and the material used in packaging, repair parts may be stored for a considerable time without damage from dust, shock, or humidity. STOREROOMS When you are in charge of a storeroom, you are also responsible for maintaining cleanliness of the space. Before you secure each night, sweep the storeroom and remove all trash. Periodically clean bins, shelves, ventilation ducts, and fans. 13-14