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- EPA Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) regulations. Learn more here.
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- The STI (Steel Tank Institute) provides additional information regarding SP001 along with frequently asked questions (FAQ). See here.
What if your Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) Requires Repairs?
Following inspection, should your aboveground storage tank require repair and restoration, we are associated with Pine Run Construction, a petroleum industry contractor certified in AST installations, modifications and repair. Our independence as inspectors provides you the assurance that only truly necessary work will be recommended.
While frequent external visual inspections can often be completed by trained facility personnel, the requirement to conduct regular integrity tests or inspections may involve hiring specialized personnel (as specified by the applicable industry standard). For example, integrity testing of aboveground storage tanks in accordance with API 653 involves formal in-service external inspections and formal out-of-service internal inspections to be conducted by an API 653 certified inspector. A formal in-service external inspection involves visual inspection and UT measurements of the shell. A formal out-of service internal inspection determines the condition of the tank’s floor, walls and structure, but should also include the shell, roof, nozzles, and tank appurtenances. The out-of service inspection typically includes non-destructive testing such as vacuum box testing floor welds, UT measurements, and tank bottom settlement measurements.
Major SPCC Requirements
Federal SPCC regulations require that affected facilities with storage over 21,000 gallons prepare and implement an SPCC plan. The following are some of the major requirements:
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- All storage containers, including portable containers, must have secondary containment.
- Discharge prevention must be provided for tank loading and unloading areas, oil handling and transfer areas.
- Integrity testing must be performed for all bulk storage containers. In some cases, visual inspection will suffice.
- Security measures must be in place to protect tanks and their controls from unauthorized access.
- A written SPCC Plan must be prepared and certified by a licensed professional engineer.
- The plan must be re-evaluated every 5 years or each time a change is made to the facility that affects the plan.
- Formal, annual SPCC Plan Training must be provided to all oil-handling personnel.