Messing up the environment can be expensive. If you own or operate a fuel Underground Storage Tank (UST), then it is in your best interest to make sure the tank is not leaking. The EPA reports that the average clean-up from a contaminated is $130,000. Preventing the “average” clean-up expense can be as simple as making sure your tanks are properly managed.
Below are important areas you need to address to stay in compliance with federal and state guidelines.
Designation of Class A, B, and C Operators
One of the first areas of concern is having designated and trained people who knowledgeable to respond to bad things that could occur with underground storage tanks. Topics Designated Operators must master include:
- Spill and overfill protection
- Release detection
- Corrosion protection
- Emergency response
- Product and equipment compatibility and demonstration
- Financial responsibility
- Notification and storage tank registration
- Related reporting, recordkeeping, testing, and inspections
- Environmental and regulatory consequences of releases
- Designate at least one Class A and one Class B. The Class C operators can be trained by the A’s and B’s. The Class A’s and B’s must undergo annual refresher training.
As the owner of the UST, you need to keep records including a list of Operators by designation and proof of training.
ATG Alarm Management
If you are using your automatic tank gauge as a method of compliance, then alarm resolution is critically important. You need to be aware when critical alarms are present and how to resolve the alarms. To appropriately comply with regulations, alarm resolution is just step one. You must be able to document that the alarms were resolved.
Monthly Walk-Through Inspections
One of the most recent regulations to take effect was the requirement for monthly Walk-Through inspections. The Walk-Through Inspection should evaluate the following:
- Spill prevention equipment
- Release detection equipment
- Containment sumps
- Handheld release detection equipment
Like Alarm Management, completing the inspection is important. Proving you did it is equally important. Maintain a monthly log recording the inspection findings and store it where your friendly neighborhood inspector can review it during their visit.
Annual Inspections
Not unlike your own annual physical, each year your UST system needs an annual poking and prodding. The piping needs a tightness test to ensure leaks are not hidden there. Check probes and sensors for residue buildup. Vacuum pumps and sensors must be able to communicate with the sensors and controller. Again, record keeping is critical. Following the inspection requirements fully do you no good if you do not properly maintain your records.
State Inspector Visits
Let us pretend that you have your ABC Operators trained and ready. You have documented Alarms, Monthly Walk-Throughs and completed an annual leak detection inspection. Now, the critical moment comes. Your annual visit from your state inspector. The process can be intimidated for sure. However, have no fear. Assistance is available.
Diversified Energy Supply can assist you all along the way. We can setup a training plan for your operators. We can track “critical dates” to ensure you meet regulatory guidelines. Diversified can monitor, remotely respond to clear alarms. If needed, we can schedule a technician to address issues. Diversified can provide monthly walkthrough inspections. All of your documentation will be safely stored and available to you in our industry leading customer portal, myFuel. We can even help prepare a package for your inspector so that have all that they need for their visit. Diversified will be with you each step of the way. Click “Let’s Talk” on our website to schedule an appointment with one of our fuel professionals.
