Safer, FM-Approved Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) -- A Market Analysis

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Safer, FM-Approved Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) -- A Market Analysis
Seth Sienkiewicz, FM Global Christopher Wieczorek, FM Global

Composite intermediate bulk containers (IBCs) are a convenient and cost-effective storage and shipping method for ignitable liquids. However, IBCs degrade rapidly when exposed to a fire, resulting in large pool fires and a potentially catastrophic event. A market analysis, including IBC manufacturers/suppliers and end users, was completed to demonstrate the financial opportunity for a company (or companies) willing to manufacture and sell a safer, FM-Approved IBC. This presentation will summarize the results of the market analysis and demonstrate that an expansive market exists for a safer, FM-Approved intermediate bulk container.

Presented by:

Seth Sienkiewicz, FM Global
Seth E. Sienkiewicz is a Lead Research Engineer within the Fire Hazards and Protection area of Research at FM Global. He has been with FM Global since 2008 and has been the Technical Team Leader of the Large-Scale Fires group since 2011. Seth received a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering and a Master of Science in Fire Protection Engineering, both from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). Prior to working at FM Global, Seth worked for 8.5 years as a Fire Protection Engineer in new product development at a fire equipment manufacturer. He is a registered Professional Engineer (PE) and is a member of the International Association for Fire Safety Science (IAFSS), NFPA (NFPA), Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE), and served on the board of the New England Chapter of SFPE.

Christopher Wieczorek, FM Global
Christopher J. Wieczorek is the Group Manager of Fire and Explosion Protection Group in the Fire Hazards and Protection Area of Research at FM Global. He obtained his Ph.D. from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University in 2003 and his Master's degree from the Center of Fire Protection Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in 1998. He is an executive board member of the International Association of Fire Safety Science. In addition, he is a member of the NFPA and serves as committee chair on the fundamentals section of NFPA 30, the Flammable and Combustible Liquids code. He is also a member of national and local chapters of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers.