Sylvie Willis
The transportation and storage of hazardous materials are highly regulated to ensure public safety. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) oversees the design and construction of shipping containers for hazardous materials, but the regulations for fixed-facility containers, such as external fuel tanks, are less consistent and vary by location. While the DOT has specific requirements for the transportation of hazardous materials by vehicle, including fuel tanks, the regulations for fixed fuel tanks are recommendations rather than mandatory standards. This lack of consistent regulations for fixed-facility containers, including external fuel tanks, raises questions about potential hazards and the need for standardized safety measures.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| External fuel tanks | Can be used to store gasoline, fuel oil, diesel fuel, corrosive liquids, flammable and combustible liquids |
| Must adhere to the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) | |
| Must be constructed and maintained in compliance with Spec. 106A or 110A | |
| Must be securely chocked or clamped on vehicles to prevent any shifting | |
| Must be attended by a qualified person at all times during loading and unloading | |
| Must have hoses equipped with cable-connected wedges, plungers or flapper valves to stop the flow of product in case of hose rupture | |
| Must have closures in liquid discharge systems closed and free of leaks |
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What You'll Learn
Transportation of hazardous materials
The transportation of hazardous materials is a highly regulated process, overseen by multiple federal, state, and local agencies in the US. The Department of Transportation (DOT) plays a central role in regulating the shipment of hazardous materials, including radioactive substances. The DOT's Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is responsible for writing the hazardous materials regulations, which are contained in 49 CFR Parts 100-180. These regulations cover the transportation of hazardous materials by rail car, aircraft, motor vehicle, and vessel, as well as the packaging and containers used for these materials.
The Hazardous Materials Transportation Act (HMTA) grants the Secretary of Transportation the authority to regulate the transportation of hazardous materials, including the designation of materials as hazardous when they pose unreasonable risks. The Hazardous Materials Transportation Uniform Safety Act (HMTUSA) was enacted in 1990 to clarify conflicting regulations and ensure uniformity among state and local routing regulations. The PHMSA has also published guidelines for routing designations, which states and Indian tribes must follow when determining whether a hazardous material may be transported by motor vehicle.
To comply with federal hazardous materials regulations, carriers and shippers should refer to the most current edition of 49 CFR Parts 100-185. These regulations include specific requirements for the transportation of flammable liquids and gases, explosive materials, and other hazardous substances. For example, cargo tanks containing hazardous materials must be attended by a qualified person during loading and unloading. Additionally, cargo heaters must be rendered inoperable when transporting certain hazardous materials, such as flammable liquids or explosive materials.
The trucking industry, which includes motor carriers and vehicle operators, must also comply with various regulations and training requirements. In the event of spills or emergencies, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)'s HAZWOPER standard covers emergency response personnel but generally does not cover the vehicle operator unless they become actively involved in the emergency response. Overall, the safe transportation of hazardous materials requires adherence to strict regulations and coordination between multiple agencies and individuals involved in the process.
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Regulations for fixed-facility containers
There is currently no mandatory regulation of fixed-facility containers. However, several organisations have issued recommendations for fixed tank specifications. These include the American Petroleum Institute, the Institute of Petroleum, the American National Standards Institute, and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
The NFPA has published several standards that address the storage of hazardous materials in fixed containers, including:
- NFPA 30 Flammable & Combustible Liquid Code: This standard requires the steel supports of horizontal tanks to be protected from flame impingement by encasing them in concrete or other non-flammable materials. Horizontal tanks are used to store flammable and combustible liquids, corrosive liquids, and other hazardous materials.
- NFPA 58 Storage and Handling of Liquefied Petroleum Gases.
Some jurisdictions have also passed local codes and ordinances that regulate certain hazardous materials in fixed containers. For example, the State Legislature in New York enacted Article 17, Title 10 of the Environmental Conservation Law in 1983 (most recently revised in 2008), which gives the DEC authority to regulate Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) and Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs). Facilities with ASTs holding oils of any kind may be subject to the U.S. EPA's Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation.
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Cone-roof tanks for fuel storage
Cone-roof tanks are used to store fuel, including gasoline, fuel oil, diesel fuel, and corrosive liquids. These tanks are characterised by their cone-shaped roof and the absence of wind girders or external vents around the top of the sidewall. They are typically constructed from steel and bolted to the top of the tank shell. Cone-roof tanks are particularly suitable for non-volatile materials due to their open interior design, which exposes the liquid surface to air and can lead to vaporisation.
The design of cone-roof tanks offers several advantages. They provide good protection against weather elements and help control the odour of their contents. Additionally, their simple and cost-effective design makes them versatile, allowing for use in various market segments, from municipal potable water to industrial anaerobic digesters.
Cone-roof tanks are often found in tank storage facilities or "tank farms", where multiple tanks are located together. These farms are frequently connected to pipelines and transportation systems, including highways, railways, and waterways. While there are no mandatory regulations for fixed-facility containers, recommendations for specifications are provided by codes and standards organisations.
The American Petroleum Institute, the Institute of Petroleum, and the American National Standards Institute publish standards for fuel storage tanks. These standards are "consensus standards" and only become mandatory when adopted by a jurisdiction. Local codes and ordinances may also regulate hazardous materials in fixed containers, but these regulations can vary across locations.
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Safety requirements for cargo tanks
Safety is a key concern for any company that moves and distributes fuel. Fuel tank truck regulations are vital to ensuring the safety and efficiency of transporting hazardous materials such as gasoline, diesel, and other fuels. These regulations cover the proper design, construction, and maintenance of fuel systems, including gravity-fed systems, to minimize the risk of accidents and environmental contamination.
One critical aspect of safety requirements for cargo tanks is the installation and maintenance of safety vents. These components play a crucial role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of fuel systems. Regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards and Regulations (FMVSS), set specific requirements for safety vents to prevent penalties and potential hazards. Additionally, fuel tank truck regulations often specify a maximum allowable liquid capacity, which varies depending on the fuel type and tank size. This limit ensures sufficient vapor space to accommodate the expanding fuel and its vapors during transportation.
Another important safety measure is the proper installation and maintenance of selector valves in gravity-fed systems. Regular checks are necessary to ensure the selector valve is functioning correctly and that there are no leaks or issues with the fuel lines and fuel system. Routine inspections should focus on key areas such as the safety venting system, selector valve, and fuel lines. Periodic checks for leaks, corrosion, and damage are essential to maintaining the integrity of the fuel systems.
For above-ground tanks, also known as "bulk storage tanks," the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates regular testing for structural integrity. This includes a combination of visual inspections and scientific methods such as radiographic, ultrasonic, or hydrostatic testing. Additionally, certain states may have specific regulations for above-ground tanks, including requirements for specific colours to designate their purpose and the installation of alarms.
To enhance safety during transportation, cargo tanks carrying hazardous materials may be equipped with vapor recovery systems. These systems capture errant vapors that occur during loading or unloading, preventing their release into the atmosphere. Additionally, cargo tanks used for transporting petroleum distillate fuels are subject to annual certification tests for vapor tightness and the functionality of internal vapor valves. This testing ensures compliance with Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations and helps standardize marking requirements for cargo tanks across the United States.
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$142.99
Diesel fuel tank regulations
Diesel fuel tanks are subject to various regulations that ensure their safe use and transportation. In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets requirements for diesel fuel tanks, particularly regarding their capacity and storage. For instance, a 1000-gallon diesel fuel tank is subject to specific regulations, including sections 1926.152(c)(4)(i)(ii), 1926.152(c)(5), and 1926.152(c)(7), which govern outdoor portable tank storage. These regulations outline the separation distance from other portable tanks, access for fire support, the clearance of combustible materials from the storage area, and the use of emergency venting devices.
Additionally, diesel fuel is generally considered a flammable liquid due to its flashpoint, which is below 140°F. This classification is significant because it triggers specific rules and regulations. For example, the location of fire extinguishers is addressed in section 1926.152(d)(2) for flammable liquid storage.
The transportation of diesel fuel tanks is also highly regulated. The Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) within the US Department of Transportation (DOT) define "hazardous material" as any substance that poses an unreasonable risk to health, safety, and property during transportation in commerce. Internal combustion engines, including those powered by diesel fuel, fall under this definition. When transported, such engines and their fuel tanks must comply with specific HMR requirements or exceptions.
To ensure compliance with regulations, certain physical requirements must be met for diesel fuel tanks. For above-ground fuel tanks, it is preferable to use double-walled tanks for added protection against leaks. Single-wall tanks are more susceptible to corrosion and leaks and must be placed in a diked area that can contain 110% of the largest tank's capacity. This diked area is typically made of concrete and should be regularly inspected for cracks, punctures, leaks, and rainwater accumulation. Visible labels indicating contents and hazards, including hazard warnings, material stored, storage capacity, and tank ID, are also mandatory.
It is important to note that regulations may vary based on location, and it is essential to consult local fire codes, Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines, and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) regulations in addition to federal standards.
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Frequently asked questions
External fuel tanks can be considered hazardous materials, depending on their contents. For example, gasoline is a hazardous material that is stored in external fuel tanks.
Internal fuel tanks are typically used to supply fuel for the operation of a motor vehicle and its auxiliary equipment, while external fuel tanks are often used for the transportation of hazardous materials.
The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the design and construction of shipping containers for hazardous materials, but there are no mandatory regulations for fixed-facility containers, which can be any size or shape.
In addition to gasoline, external fuel tanks can store fuel oil, diesel fuel, corrosive liquids, and other flammable or combustible liquids.
Yes, there are safety concerns associated with external fuel tanks, particularly those made of steel that are prone to corrosion and leakage over time. In the 1950s, a failure in a steel horizontal tank at a gasoline station caused a fire that killed six firefighters.
