Comprehensive Guide to P&FM Storage Licenses: SCDF Quantity Limits and Containment Requirements
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Executive Summary of Chemical Storage Regulations
Industrial operations frequently utilize highly hazardous chemicals. These volatile substances present severe fire and explosion risks. Therefore, strict regulatory oversight is absolutely necessary.1
The Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) governs these materials. Specifically, the SCDF implements the Petroleum and Flammable Materials framework. This framework is known as the P&FM licensing system.1
This comprehensive system prevents catastrophic industrial incidents. It ensures adequate fire safety provisions are actively maintained.2
The regulatory framework dictates strict quantity limits.3 It also enforces rigorous secondary containment requirements.4 Furthermore, it incorporates advanced technical standards. These include SS 532 for flammable liquids.5
They also include SS 667 for combustible dust.6 Additionally, SS 586 mandates proper chemical segregation.7
Compliance is not merely a legal obligation. Rather, it is a critical operational imperative. Recently, the SCDF introduced artificial intelligence for enforcement.
The Targeted On-Site Inspection Tool predicts compliance failures.8 Consequently, facilities must maintain immaculate safety standards continuously.
The Foundation of P&FM Licensing
The Fire Safety Act establishes the core legal foundation. Under this act, specific fire safety regulations operate.9 These regulations control the import of hazardous substances. They also govern transport and storage operations.10 Storing these materials requires a valid license. This rule applies whenever quantities exceed specific exemption thresholds.2
The Licensing Branch manages these critical applications. This branch operates within the SCDF HazMat Department.1
The fundamental objective is achieving a secure working environment.1 High-risk activities demand proactive hazard mitigation strategies constantly. Therefore, the SCDF evaluates applications rigorously.
Processing typically requires 19 working days.2 This timeline assumes all submitted documents are accurate.2 Furthermore, site inspections must reveal no compliance issues.2
SCDF Import and Transport Licenses
The regulatory framework extends beyond mere storage. The SCDF also strictly monitors material importation.11
Importing scheduled products above exemption limits requires licensing.11 These import licenses feature varying validity periods. Applicants can choose 12, 24, or 36 months.12
Fees scale according to the chosen validity period. A 12-month license costs $70.12 A 24-month license costs $140.12
Finally, a 36-month license costs $210.12 Furthermore, importers must utilize licensed storage premises.11 They must ensure imported goods do not compromise fire safety.11 Using unauthorized storage licenses invites immediate prosecution.11
Additionally, transporting these materials requires a specific transport license. The fee is $105 per licensed vehicle.13
Processing transport licenses typically takes three working days.14 Drivers must understand potential fire and explosion hazards.15 They must also follow approved transport routes strictly.15 Moreover, pipeline conveyance requires a separate license. The pipeline license fee is $350.13
Mandatory Licensing Criteria and Exemptions
Certain hazardous chemicals trigger automatic licensing requirements. Scheduled chemicals represent the highest industrial risk tier.
Storing any scheduled chemical requires a valid license.1 This strict rule applies regardless of the storage volume.1 Even microscopic quantities demand strict regulatory oversight.
Conversely, non-scheduled materials feature specific exemption limits. If storage volumes remain below these limits, licenses are unnecessary.1 However, general fire safety regulations still apply universally.
Building owners must always comply with the Fire Code.2 Facilities must incorporate appropriate fire safety works during construction. These critical works must address specific chemical hazards.1
SCDF Quantity Limits for Petroleum
Understanding exact exemption quantities is crucial for operational planning. The SCDF categorizes petroleum products into four distinct classes.16 These classes depend entirely on the substance’s flash point.16
- Class 0: Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG).16
- Class I: Flash point completely below 23°C.16
- Class II: Flash point between 23°C and 60°C.16
- Class III: Flash point above 60°C up to 93°C.16
Class 0 Petroleum Exemption Limits
LPG represents a highly significant explosion hazard. Therefore, the SCDF restricts its physical storage heavily. The exemption limits depend on the premises’ specific purpose.1
| Premises Type | Exemption Quantity Limit | Additional Storage Conditions |
| Private Dwelling House | Maximum 30 kg | Limited to maximum 2 cylinders.1 |
| Eating Place | Maximum 30 kg per stall | Total maximum of 200 kg per place.1 |
| Restaurant | Maximum 200 kg | Applies to the entire establishment.1 |
| Factory | Maximum 300 kg | Applies per individual factory unit.1 |
Liquid Petroleum Exemption Limits
Liquid petroleum products feature different allowable volumetric thresholds. These specific limits distinguish between general business and factory use.1
Factories generally possess superior fire protection infrastructure. Consequently, they receive significantly higher exemption limits.1
| Petroleum Class | Private Use (Non-Factory) | Factory Use |
| Class I | Maximum 20 L 1 | Maximum 400 L 1 |
| Class II | Maximum 200 L 1 | Maximum 1,000 L 1 |
| Class III | Maximum 1,500 L 1 | Maximum 1,500 L 1 |
Flammable Materials Exemption Limits
Flammable materials encompass 378 specific groups of chemicals.16 The Fourth Schedule of the Regulations lists these volatile substances.16
Exemption limits vary significantly based on the chemical type. They also depend heavily on the intended usage context.
For example, limits differ for manufacturing versus laboratory purposes.
| Chemical Substance Name | General Manufacturing Limit | Medical or Laboratory Limit |
| Acetal | 20 L | 20 L 17 |
| Acetone | 20 L | 20 L 17 |
| Acetylene (gas) | 10 kg | 10 kg 17 |
| Aluminium powder | 0 kg | 10 kg 17 |
| Diethylamine | 20 L | 20 L 17 |
| Methylamine (gas) | 20 kg | 20 kg 17 |
| Benzotrifluoride | 20 L | 20 L 17 |
Exemptions for Mixed Storage
Facilities often store multiple types of hazardous materials together. The SCDF provides specific rules for mixed chemical storage.18
These vital exemptions apply when substances occupy separate containers.18 They also apply when substances occupy separate compartments.18
| Mixture State | Maximum Aggregate Exemption Limit |
| Solid Mixtures | Aggregate weight must not exceed 20 kg.18 |
| Liquid Mixtures | Aggregate volume must not exceed 40 L.18 |
| Gaseous Mixtures | Aggregate weight must not exceed 10 kg.18 |
| Mixed States | Aggregate weight must not exceed 20 kg.18 |
Furthermore, chemical dispensing activities receive specific regulatory exemptions. Dispensing is exempt from requiring licensed premises under certain conditions.
The total storage must remain below the exemption threshold.18 This specific exemption simplifies daily operations for small-scale users.
P&FM Storage License Fee Structures
When chemical storage exceeds exemption limits, licensing becomes mandatory. The SCDF structures storage license fees based on actual volumes.
Fees are calculated precisely per licensed premises.13 The license validity period extends up to three years. This specific duration depends on the assessed risk level.1
Liquid Flammable Materials Pricing
The official pricing model scales with the volume of liquid. Higher storage volumes incur proportionally higher regulatory fees.
| Liquid Storage Volume Quantity | Annual License Fee |
| Not exceeding 500 L | $184.13 |
| 501 L to 5,000 L | $242.13 |
| 5,001 L to 50,000 L | $413.13 |
| 50,001 L to 250,000 L | $862.1 |
| 250,001 L to 450,000 L | $1,320.1 |
| Subsequent 450,000 L portions | Additional $82.1 |
Solid and Gaseous Flammable Materials Pricing
Solid and gaseous materials utilize weight-based fee structures. These specific structures also scale according to aggregate mass.
| Material State | Storage Mass Quantity | Annual License Fee |
| Solid | Not exceeding 200 kg | $212.13 |
| Solid | 201 kg to 5,000 kg | $256.13 |
| Solid | Subsequent 5,000 kg portions | Additional $48.13 |
| Gaseous | Not exceeding 50 kg | $212.13 |
| Gaseous | 51 kg to 5,000 kg | $276.13 |
| Gaseous | Subsequent 5,000 kg portions | Additional $48.13 |
The P&FM Storage License Application Process
Applying for a P&FM storage license involves structured workflows. Applicants must utilize the GoBusiness Portal for online submissions.1 This digital process ensures efficiency and regulatory transparency.
First, applicants must consult the Ministry of Manpower. The Major Hazards Department determines if a QRA is necessary.1
A Quantitative Risk Assessment evaluates potential off-site impacts. Next, the applicant must engage a Qualified Person.1 This registered professional prepares the detailed building plans.19 These architectural plans must incorporate all necessary fire safety works.1
Once facility construction concludes, a Registered Inspector evaluates everything. The RI certifies that works match the approved plans.1
Upon successful certification, the RI applies for proper documentation. This critical document is the Fire Safety Certificate.1 Finally, the applicant submits the complete package to SCDF.2 The license is issued upon successful payment of fees.2
Eighteen Mandatory Fire Safety Conditions
Storing P&FM requires strict adherence to numerous safety conditions. The SCDF outlines 18 specific fire safety conditions.1 Non-compliance results in immediate, severe enforcement action.
First, licensees must maintain an updated chemical register.1 This register tracks quantities, physical movements, and safety data.1 All physical entrances, passageways, and exits must remain unobstructed.1
This absolutely ensures safe evacuation routes during an emergency. Furthermore, it guarantees unhindered access for emergency vehicles.1
Stacking of chemical containers must follow strict stability guidelines. Safe stacking limits fire spread and prevents structural collapses.1
Facilities must also maintain impeccable cleanliness standards continuously. The premises must remain clear of combustible debris.1
Security measures form another critical pillar of the regulations. Licensees must prevent unauthorized entry into hazardous storage zones.1 Installing CCTV systems at appropriate locations is generally required.1
Additionally, facilities must establish a Company Emergency Response Team.1 These CERT members must pass regular, rigorous competency assessments.1 An updated Emergency Response Plan must guide their actions.1
Containment Requirements and SS 532
Safe chemical storage demands highly robust physical containment systems. Singapore Standard SS 532 governs these vital containment protocols.
This code of practice specifies rules for storing flammable liquids.5 SS 532 underwent a highly significant revision in 2024.20 This recent revision incorporates crucial global industry advancements.
Key Updates in SS 532:2024
The revised standard introduces several critical regulatory changes. It now allows non-metallic containers for chemical storage.20
However, this new allowance requires explicit approval from relevant authorities.21 Furthermore, the standard enhances existing firefighting safeguards significantly. It references the latest practices from applicable NFPA standards.21
Notably, SS 532:2024 addresses pressing environmental fire suppression concerns. It provides guidance on utilizing PFAS-free foam.20
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances present massive ecological risks globally. Therefore, transitioning to PFAS-free alternatives is highly prioritized. Additionally, the standard tightens requirements for tank overfill protection.20 Overfilling causes catastrophic chemical spills and subsequent massive fires. A recent corrigendum also corrected separation distance diagrams.22
Indoor Storage and Safety Cabinets
Indoor storage of flammable liquids requires strict volume controls. Quantities exceeding 25 gallons must reside in approved cabinets.23 These special storage cabinets must meet rigorous construction standards.
For instance, wooden cabinets demand specific material grades. The plywood must be at least one inch thick.23 Furthermore, the wood must resist delamination under fire conditions.23
Joints require rabbeted construction and fastening in two directions.23 Flathead wood screws must secure these intricate joints perfectly.
Moreover, doors require a rabbeted overlap of one inch.23 Steel hinges are completely mandatory for mounting these doors.23 These engineering details ensure the cabinet maintains structural integrity. During a fire, the cabinet must shield volatile contents.
Secondary Containment and Bunding Rules
Secondary containment systems provide a vital second defensive line. They prevent major hazard events following primary container failure.24 Bunds are the most common secondary containment method utilized. They surround large storage tanks or drum storage areas.24
The capacity of a bund must meet strict mathematical criteria. The SCDF utilizes the widely accepted 110% rule globally.
Alternatively, facilities use the 10% total volume rule. The containment system must hold the greater of these values.4
- First Calculation: 110% of the largest single container’s volume.4
- Second Calculation: 10% of the total aggregate container volume.4
For example, consider a facility with three storage tanks. The capacities are 5,000, 3,000, and 2,000 gallons.4 The largest tank is precisely 5,000 gallons. Therefore, 110% of this tank equals 5,500 gallons.4 The total volume is exactly 10,000 gallons. Therefore, 10% of the total equals 1,000 gallons.4 The system must accommodate the significantly larger value. Consequently, the bund requires a 5,500-gallon holding capacity.4
This extra space serves a highly critical functional purpose. It accommodates additional liquids introduced during a sudden emergency.
This includes rainwater accumulation and firefighting media like foam.25 It also effectively mitigates the wave effect of dynamic loads.25
When a tank ruptures, the escaping liquid creates surges. The extra capacity prevents this surge from overtopping walls.25
Calculating Containment Bund Volumes
Engineers use specific volume formulas to design containment areas. The required calculations depend entirely on the containment structure’s geometry.
For a standard rectangular containment area, the mathematical formula is:
.4
For a cylindrical containment structure, the mathematical formula becomes:
.4
For a cone-bottom containment structure, the mathematical formula is:
.4
For sloped floor containment shapes, the mathematical formula is:
.4
These physical containment areas must utilize noncombustible construction materials.26 Furthermore, they must feature specialized environmental drainage control mechanisms. Common implementations include liquid-tight raised sills and sloped floors.26 Additionally, open-grate trenches direct spilled fluids into safe sumps.26
Mechanical Ventilation Requirements for Chemical Stores
Flammable liquids constantly emit volatile, highly combustible vapors. Therefore, robust mechanical ventilation is an absolute operational necessity. Ventilation prevents the dangerous accumulation of these explosive vapor clouds. The requirements depend heavily on the specific facility design.
Explosion-proof mechanical ventilation systems are often legally mandatory.27 These systems isolate the electrical motor from the airstream. Consequently, the motor cannot act as an ignition source.27 This is absolutely vital for buildings used for mixing flammables.27
The system must perform a minimum of six air changes.27 This hourly rate ensures continuous atmospheric safety. Furthermore, the airflow rate must maintain one cubic foot.27 This is measured per minute, per square foot. For certain high-risk areas, the requirements increase significantly. Some configurations demand a minimum of ten air changes hourly.28
Moreover, the ventilation architecture must adhere to specific rules. The mechanical system must utilize a supply-mode only design.28 Supply air must originate directly from the external environment.28 Crucially, the intake point requires strategic and precise placement. It must sit at least 5 meters from exhaust discharges.28 This distance prevents the hazardous recirculation of contaminated air.
Additionally, system redundancy is a highly critical safety feature. The exhaust and supply fans must feature electrical interlocking.28 If the exhaust fan fails, the supply fan shuts down.28 This safely prevents the system from positively pressurizing the room. Positive pressure would force flammable vapors into adjacent areas.
Hazardous Chemical Segregation and SS 586
Storing incompatible chemicals together creates extreme operational hazards. Accidental mixing can cause violent reactions or toxic gas emissions. Therefore, the SCDF enforces strict chemical segregation rules. Singapore Standard SS 586 governs this crucial safety aspect.7
SS 586 adapts the Globally Harmonized System for Singapore.7 The standard contains three distinct, interconnected regulatory parts. Part 1 focuses on transport and dangerous goods storage.7 The recent 2021 revision aligns closely with UN recommendations.29 It clarifies the storage labeling requirements mandated by the SCDF.29
The GHS Classification and SDS Mandates
Under SS 586, chemical suppliers must provide Safety Data Sheets.30 These critical documents must follow the standard 16-section format.7 Furthermore, they must be written in the English language.7 Suppliers must review the SDS every five years.7 If new hazard information emerges, revisions must occur quickly. Suppliers have six months to implement these critical revisions.7
Occupiers of a workplace must label all hazardous containers.30 Small packages under 125 ml have specific minimum requirements. They must display the product identifier and hazard pictogram.30 They must also state: “refer to SDS for additional information”.30
Chemical Segregation Principles
The segregation table acts as a vital compliance tool.31 It helps managers determine safe hazardous materials compatibility.31 Flammable liquids require isolation from several incompatible chemical classes.
- Oxidizers: Mixing causes catastrophic and immediate fire hazards.32
- Acids: Mixing leads to violent reactions and extreme heat.32
- Poisons/Toxins: Mixing generates highly toxic and flammable gases.32
For instance, inorganic bases like Sodium Hydroxide require care. They must be stored away from flammable liquids.32 Accidental contact produces highly violent and dangerous reactions.32 Similarly, glacial acetic acid must remain separate from oxidizers.32
The segregation table utilizes a highly simple visual matrix. An “X” signifies that materials must never be mixed.31 An “O” indicates conditional separation is strictly required.31 This means they can share a room with physical barriers. In the event of leakage, the liquids must not mix.31
Managing Combustible Dusts with SS 667
Solid combustible materials burn incredibly rapidly when finely divided. When this dust suspends in air, it creates explosion hazards.33 These massive deflagrations cause severe structural damage and fatalities.33 Therefore, the SCDF mandates compliance with SS 667:2020.6
This standard dictates the handling and storage of combustible dust.6 It applies to numerous critical industries across Singapore. These include food processing, woodworking, and petrochemical facilities.34 Combustible dusts divide broadly into four main categories. These include metals, chemicals, plastics, and organic matter.33
Dust Hazard Analysis Requirements
Facilities must determine if their materials are actually combustible.35 If they are, a formal Dust Hazard Analysis is mandatory.35 The DHA identifies fire, deflagration, and explosion risks comprehensively.35 It also mandates testing to determine exact explosibility properties.35
Key parameters include the Minimum Explosible Concentration (MEC).36 The facility must operate strictly below this concentration threshold.36 Furthermore, engineers must identify the Minimum Ignition Temperature (LIT).36 Potential ignition sources include electrostatic discharges and mechanical sparks.36 Hot surfaces also pose highly significant ignition risks.36
Explosion Mitigation and Protection Systems
SS 667 requires specific engineering controls for process equipment. Equipment with a volume exceeding 0.2 cubic meters demands protection.36 Facilities must utilize one or more approved mitigation methods.
First, facilities can use oxidant concentration reduction methods. This involves inerting the atmosphere to prevent sudden ignition.36 Second, they can utilize advanced deflagration venting systems. This provides explosion relief panels to direct pressure safely.36 Third, deflagration suppression systems are highly effective. They actively extinguish the explosion in milliseconds.36
Fourth, facilities can use deflagration pressure containment designs. This involves designing vessels to withstand peak explosion pressures.36 Finally, dilution methods are sometimes applicable. This involves mixing with noncombustible dust to render mixtures inert.36
Laboratory Chemical Storage Standards (SS 641)
Laboratories utilize highly concentrated, extremely volatile chemicals daily. These specific environments require highly specialized fire safety protocols. The SCDF enforces Singapore Standard SS 641:2019 for laboratories.37 This comprehensive code governs laboratories within manufacturing and research entities.38
The standard focuses heavily on establishing maximum allowable quantities.39 This is commonly referred to as the MAQ.40 The MAQ prevents the dangerous overstocking of highly reactive chemicals.40 A Qualified Person must calculate this precise quantity.40 The SCDF must subsequently approve the calculated limit formally.40
MAQ Calculations and Sprinkler Systems
The MAQ depends entirely on the laboratory’s fire protection infrastructure. For example, consider flammable liquids in a non-sprinklered building. The laboratory unit is limited to 50 L total.39 Alternatively, it is limited to 1.6 L per square meter.39 However, if the building features sprinkler systems, limits increase. The maximum total volume expands to 500 L.39
Similar stringent rules apply to flammable and oxidizing gases. In a sprinklered building, clusters are limited to 170 L.39 For non-sprinklered buildings, this allowable volume is halved.39 Furthermore, storing Class 2 hazardous materials requires environmental monitoring. Gas leak detection systems are strictly mandatory for compliance.39 Oxygen-level monitoring is also required in enclosed spaces.39
P&FM Storage Tank Inspection Regimes
P&FM storage tanks demand rigorous, ongoing professional inspection regimes. Improper storage or undetected deterioration poses massive operational risks.41 Inspections ensure structural integrity and validate containment standards.41
Visual checks alone are completely insufficient for SCDF compliance.41 Inspectors must confirm that tanks meet all installation regulations. They must evaluate aboveground tanks for severe environmental corrosion.41 They must also check for mechanical damage and weather deterioration.41
Underground tanks present highly hidden, incredibly insidious risks. Therefore, inspectors search for soil corrosion and undetected leaks.41 Environmental contamination from underground tanks creates massive liability issues.
Inspection findings must be exceptionally clear and audit-ready.41 Incomplete reports guarantee delays in license approvals and renewals.41 Facilities must demonstrate ongoing, proactive compliance continuously.41
Common Enforcement Findings and Case Studies
The SCDF conducts regular audits to ensure strict regulatory compliance. During these inspections, officers frequently uncover severe safety violations. These violations immediately compromise life safety and property integrity.
One of the most critical offenses is unauthorized usage. This is known formally as an Unauthorized Change of Use.19 This occurs when a facility alters a space’s purpose. For example, converting a warehouse into an illegal dormitory.19 This change overloads the existing fire protection design drastically.42 It introduces sleeping occupants into highly hazardous industrial zones.
A recent case involved a terrace factory converted illegally.19 A fire subsequently broke out, threatening the occupants’ lives.19 The SCDF initiated immediate court prosecution against the offenders.19
Another common violation involves Unauthorized Fire Safety Works.19 This includes erecting massive racking systems or mezzanine floors.19 Mezzanines qualify as additional storeys under the Fire Code.19
Therefore, they require extended fire protection systems like sprinklers.19 Installing them without SCDF approval compromises structural compartmentation completely.42 The SCDF prosecutes these severe breaches vigorously in court.19
Continuing Offenses and Escalating Fines
Routine maintenance failures also plague many industrial facilities globally. Inspectors frequently find obstructed exit routes and non-functional lighting.19 Obstructed escape paths trap occupants, creating mass-casualty risks.42 Furthermore, non-maintained firefighting equipment fails during critical suppression attempts.42
SCDF protocols mandate immediate prosecution for severe or repeated failures.42 For continuing offenses, fines accumulate daily, causing massive penalties.19 Consider the case of CLA Construction Pte Ltd.
They occupied multiple blocks without a valid Fire Certificate.19 Initially, the company received a fine of $2,000.19 However, the non-compliance persisted for 210 additional days.19 Consequently, the SCDF invoked the continuing offense provision.19 This resulted in a massive final fine of $21,000.19
The Future of Enforcement: AI and the TOIT System
The regulatory landscape in Singapore has hardened significantly recently.42 The dichotomy between minor deviations and serious offenses is stark. The SCDF utilizes the Fire Safety Amendment Act aggressively.42 They are abandoning the leniency of Fire Hazard Abatement Notices.42 Instead, they pursue immediate prosecution for high-risk violations.42
To enhance this enforcement strategy, the SCDF deployed technology. In 2025, they introduced the Targeted On-Site Inspection Tool.19
TOIT represents a massive leap in predictive regulatory enforcement. It relies heavily on advanced artificial intelligence and analytics.19
TOIT analyzes vast amounts of historical data instantly.8 It evaluates past enforcement records and historical fire incidents.19 By processing these data points, the AI predicts failures.8 It calculates a precise Propensity Score for every premise.19 This score reflects the mathematical likelihood of finding violations.19
Premises with high propensity scores receive immediate, targeted inspections.19 This allows the SCDF to allocate enforcement resources efficiently.19 TOIT functions as a highly sophisticated risk assessment mechanism.8
It strengthens overall compliance and reduces severe fires significantly.8 Consequently, facilities can no longer rely on sporadic preparation. Continuous, immaculate compliance is the only viable operational strategy.
Strategic Conclusions for Regulatory Compliance
Navigating the SCDF’s P&FM licensing framework requires meticulous planning. The regulations demand intense attention to engineering and procedures. Facilities must calculate their exemption quantities with absolute precision.1 Exceeding these limits without a license invites immediate prosecution.
Furthermore, adherence to containment standards is completely non-negotiable. SS 532 mandates strict bunding capacities utilizing containment rules.4 It also dictates explosion-proof mechanical ventilation systems effectively.27 Managing specific hazards requires specialized knowledge of rigorous standards.39 These standards mitigate the catastrophic risks of combustible dusts.6
Moreover, proper hazard communication prevents deadly chemical interactions. SS 586 enforces strict segregation matrices and GHS requirements.7 Proper segregation ensures incompatible chemicals never mix accidentally.31
Ultimately, the SCDF’s shift toward AI-driven enforcement changes everything. The TOIT system guarantees that non-compliance will be detected.8 Facilities must shift from reactive readiness to proactive management. They must maintain their storage tanks meticulously and continuously.41 They must also ensure emergency teams remain highly effective.1 By mastering these requirements, operations can ensure life safety.
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