What is the Maximum Allowable Quantity (MAQ) of Hazardous Materials Allowed by Code in a Laboratory or Pilot Plant Area?

We live in a world of acronyms and abbreviations many of which, at least in text messages, defy the author’s interpretation. A common one in pilot plant and laboratory operations is the maximum allowable quantity or MAQ. This is the maximum amount of hazardous materials that are allowed in a building by the building code. If you exceed the MAQ you are (1) unsafe and (2) likely to receive a costly public citation for violating the fire code. The fire department can, in some circumstances, require you to shut down your operations until the problem is corrected.