Let's Talk: Tank Compliance
All storage tanks require routine inspections to ensure tank compliance, mitigate accidents and meet regulatory standards. While tank compliance criteria differ depending on vessel attributes (size, configuration, design, and product contained) the benefits of maintaining continual compliance are universal. Benefits include:
- Employee Health and Safety
- Accident Mitigation (leaks, punctures, shutdowns, system failures, etc.)
- Achievement of Government Regulatory Requirements
- Environmental Protection
The first step to take to ensure tank compliance is to look to the Federal, State, and Local regulations for guidance and requirements.
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Federal
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State
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Local
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- The Oil Pollution Control Act SPCC requires regular testing and inspection for all storage tanks
- The Risk Management Program (RMP) and Process Safety Management (PSM) require owners and operators of storage tanks to identify hazards that may result from releases using appropriate hazard assessment techniques
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- State Fire Marshals enforce flammable storage regulations
- State Emergency Planning Committees require initial and annual reporting and inspection as a result of EPCRA
- The State Department of Environmental Protection implements and maintains annual permitting programs
- The State Regulatory Authority of Pressure Vessels mandates regular inspections
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- Fire departments have regulations for flammable storage permits. Permits often require initial and annual tank inspections
- Local Emergency Planning Committees require initial and annual reporting and inspection
- The Board of Health requires inspections to guarantee health and safety
- Building inspectors require an initial inspection to confirm compliance at the place of installation
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*Not inclusive of all governmental regulatory requirements
The next step is to create and implement a Vessel Maintenance and Accident Prevention Plan. This document should include:
- Regulatory Requirements for your Type of Vessel
- Continuous (Monthly, Quarterly, Annually) Inspection, Testing & Maintenance Schedules
- Risk Mitigation and Emergency Response Procedures
The bottom line is that if you are an owner or operator of a storage vessel it is critical that you schedule routine inspections to avoid costly shutdowns, accidents or government penalties.
Have questions? Give us a call! With over 100 years of experience, Mass Tank is proud to provide exemplary inspection and maintenance services that enable our customers to meet government regulations, mitigate accidents and shutdowns, and maximize the safety and integrity of their systems. With a staff of licensed consultants and certified inspectors, we feel confident that we can provide the guidance and support you need.