Above ground storage tanks (ASTs) play a crucial role in the manufacturing and industrial sectors. They are designed to temporarily hold various liquids and bulk solids, including petroleum, chemicals, and water. However, ensuring the safe operation and compliance of ASTs requires adhering to specific regulations and industry standards. So, what are the above ground storage tank requirements?
If your company is considering installing such containers, ensuring compliance with the safety regulations is essential. Here is a comprehensive guide on implementing safety measures and addressing environmental concerns for optimal storage.
Aboveground Storage Tank Requirements – Safety and Environmental Regulations
As a tank manufacturers we know above ground storage tanks serve as valuable assets for storing various substances in industrial and commercial settings. There are applications across various industries, including industrial and chemical manufacturing.
ASTs are designed to fulfill bulk storage needs and transfer operations. That said, whether your operation is in need of new storage tanks and you are looking for certified custom storage tank fabrication, or you are the owner or operator of a qualified facility with such containers, it is necessary to familiarize yourself with the federal, state, and local requirements governing them.
The ASTs are subject to regular inspection requirements to ensure safe operation and environmental compliance. This includes adherence to design standards, construction requirements, and operational best practices.
Following such established guidelines enables you to protect public health and safety, minimize environmental risks, and maintain the integrity of the above ground storage tank systems.
Regulatory compliance
Post-installation in their final destination, ASTs that store petroleum products are typically regulated under 40 CFR 112 as bulk storage containers. Regulations such as the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act and the Clean Water Act also outline specific requirements for ASTs.
ASTs are subject to regulations and guidelines set forth by government agencies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in the US and similar regulatory bodies worldwide. They aim to prevent environmental contamination, ensure public safety, and mitigate potential hazards associated with storing hazardous substances.
Design and installation
According to the requirements, ASTs must be designed, constructed, and installed under engineering standards and codes, such as API-650 and -620. These standards typically address tank materials, structural integrity, corrosion protection, and seismic considerations.
Work with qualified engineers and contractors at Savannah Tank to design and install the storage tanks in accordance with industry standards. Consider factors like tank size, material, location, and foundation design to ensure structural integrity and prevent leaks.
At Savannah Tank, we produce storage tanks in a variety of sizes and materials. Our tanks adhere to high industry standards and are used by leading companies across various industries.
Location and spacing
The location of ASTs can minimize risks to public health, safety, and the environment. Following the regulations, the storage tanks should be situated on stable, level ground away from water sources, buildings, and other structures. In some cases they need to be deployed more than 25 feet from buildings or electrical equipment.
Local construction codes often govern the exact spacing required between tanks and property lines to prevent fire spread and facilitate maintenance activities.
Tank inspection
The above ground storage tank inspection requirements may vary depending on regulatory jurisdiction, industry standards, and the type of substances stored in the tanks. Among the requirements you need to adhere to regarding such storage tank units is the regulation “Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, Reconstruction’’.
This regulation was developed and published by the American Petroleum Institute. It provides guidelines for inspecting, repairing, altering, and reconstructing steel above ground storage tanks used in the petroleum and chemical industries. The regulation includes minimum requirements for maintaining the integrity of the tanks.
The Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction standard also recognizes fitness-for-service assessment concepts for evaluating the in-service degradation of pressure-containing components.
Leak detection and prevention
You may also want to implement robust leak detection systems, such as Automatic Tank Gauge (ATG) system, sensors, and alarms. Doing so can help you promptly identify potential leaks and address them in a timely manner.
Thus, developing a spill prevention and response plan outlining procedures for containing and mitigating spills is essential. We advise regular inspection of the tanks for signs of corrosion, cracks, and other vulnerabilities that can cause leaks.
Proper corrosion protection measures such as coatings, cathodic protection, and corrosion-resistant materials are essential to prolonging the tank’s service life. To prevent spilled liquids from reaching the environment, provide adequate spill containment measures, such as secondary containment berms or dikes.
Does EPA Regulate Aboveground Storage Tanks?
While the EPA primarily regulates underground storage tanks, it also has authority over certain aspects of above ground storage tanks. The above ground storage tank regulations depend on the stored substances and the facility’s operations.
We recommend staying updated on any changes or amendments to maintain regulatory compliance and avoid penalties. Some key above ground storage tank requirements include:
- Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) – The SPCC rule aims to prevent oil spills from reaching navigable waters or adjoining shorelines. If your facility is subject to this rule, you must develop and implement spill prevention plans, conduct regular inspections, and install appropriate containment measures.
- Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) – Following the RCRA rule, EPA regulates the management and disposal of hazardous waste. Facilities that store hazardous substances, such as certain chemicals and petroleum products, in ASTs must comply with RCRA requirements for waste management, storage, and handling.
- Clean Water Act (CWA) – The CWA regulates the discharge of pollutants into US navigable waters. It entails that facilities with ASTs that store oil, or other hazardous substances, must comply with CWA provisions to prevent unauthorized discharges and implement spill response measures.
Conclusion
Adhering to aboveground storage tank requirements is crucial for ensuring the safe and compliant storage of substances. It is vital for minimizing environmental risks and safeguarding public health and safety.
Stay informed, proactive, and diligent in maintaining ASTs to mitigate potential hazards and ensure operational efficiency.
