Understanding the Types of Tanks for Storing Gasoline: Regulations and Compliance

Gasoline, an essential fuel for vehicles and other machinery, demands stringent storage regulations to ensure safety and environmental protection. The regulations in the United States for the storage of gasoline in tanks are comprehensive and cover various aspects, including tank design, management, testing, and more. This article delves into the different types of tanks for storing gasoline and the corresponding regulatory requirements.

Types of Gasoline Storage Tanks

Gasoline storage tanks typically fall into two categories: aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) and underground storage tanks (USTs). Each type has its own set of regulations and requirements to ensure safe and compliant storage.

Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs)

Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are used extensively for holding large volumes of gasoline. These tanks can be fully aboveground, partially buried, or completely buried, depending on the storage needs. The size of a bulk storage container is defined as 55 gallons or greater and must adhere to specific safety and environmental standards.

Underground Storage Tanks (USTs)

Underground storage tanks (USTs) are designed to store gasoline below the ground level. USTs are particularly common in residential settings due to their convenience and protection against severe weather conditions. However, USTs also require stringent regulatory compliance to prevent leaks and spills that could impact the environment and human health.

Regulatory Requirements for Gasoline Storage Tanks

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) primarily regulates aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) under 40 CFR 112. This regulation ensures that storage tanks are safe and environmentally sound. Here are the key requirements and guidelines:

Design and Construction

A container used for storing oil, such as a storage tank, must be made of compatible materials and designed to handle the storage conditions, including pressure and temperature. The tank must be constructed with a secondary containment system to prevent leaks and spills. Diked areas provide a secondary containment for the entire capacity of the tank and must be impervious to contain discharged fluids.

Leak Prevention and Detection

Liquid level sensing devices are crucial in preventing spills and ensuring the tank's integrity. High liquid level alarms, suction cutoff devices, and communication systems between the container and pumping station must be installed. Regular visual inspections and non-destructive testing techniques such as hydrostatic, radiographic, and ultrasonic testing are required to ensure the tank's structural integrity.

Leak Management and Monitoring

Controlling leakage through defective heating coils and monitoring steam lines is critical. Any rainwater or drainage that has not been contaminated is not allowed to bypass the facility's treatment system. The facility must adhere to specific procedures for proper drainage and the management of rainwater.

Testing and Monitoring

Regular testing and monitoring are essential for ensuring the safe storage of gasoline. Each aboveground container must be tested for integrity regularly and after any material repairs. These tests include visual inspection, hydrostatic testing, and ultrasonic testing. Comparison records must be kept, and the container's supports and foundations must also be inspected regularly.

Mobile/Portable ASTs

Mobile or portable oil bulk storage containers must also be positioned to prevent potential discharge. These containers must be equipped with secondary containment systems, such as dikes or catchment basins, to contain the capacity of the largest single compartment.

Regulatory Applicability

40 CFR 112 applies to various types of storage facilities, including petroleum oils and non-petroleum oils like animal fats, vegetable oils, and fish and marine mammal oils. This regulation also applies to owners or operators of onshore or offshore facilities engaged in drilling, producing, gathering, storing, processing, refining, transferring, distributing, using, or consuming oil and oil products.

Conclusion

Storing gasoline in tanks requires careful adherence to federal and state regulations to ensure safety and environmental protection. By understanding the different types of tanks and their regulatory requirements, individuals and organizations can implement effective storage practices that comply with the law.

Keywords: Gasoline Storage Tanks, Federal Regulations, Environmental Compliance