Katerina Swanson
Secondary containment for above-ground fuel tanks is a critical safety measure to prevent spills and leaks, especially given the often-flammable nature of the liquids involved. These containment systems are designed to capture and contain any spills or leaks from the primary tank, thereby preventing environmental contamination and mitigating potential safety hazards. The specific requirements for secondary containment vary depending on local, state, and federal regulations, with factors such as tank size, substance type, and site characteristics influencing the design and construction of the containment system. The methods employed can range from simple drum-in-drum solutions to more complex systems like dike tanks, containment sumps, and berms, each designed to provide an essential line of defence in the event of a failure in the primary tank.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To prevent leaks and spills from reaching the surrounding environment, soil, or groundwater |
| Application | Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) containing potential pollutants such as oils, lubricants, greases, fuels, and chemicals |
| Regulatory Requirements | Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation (40 CFR Part 112) by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA); additional state, local, or international regulations may apply |
| Construction | Materials vary, including steel, concrete, asphalt, clay, or plastic; double-walled tanks with interstitial monitoring are commonly used |
| Containment Types | Containment sumps, dikes, berms, pallets, under-dispenser containment (UDC), and pits |
| Cost | Dependent on the containment method, site needs, and regulatory requirements |
| Maintenance | Routine monitoring for leaks, with weekly checks for impermeable materials and 72-hour checks for other designs |
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What You'll Learn
Secondary containment methods and costs
Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are large metal tanks that store liquids and gases such as petroleum products, crude oil, chemicals, water, acids, and fertilizers. They are a common sight in manufacturing across the United States. Due to the environmental impact of potential leaks, secondary containment is critical for larger tanks designed to hold oil and fuel above ground.
Secondary Containment Methods
There are various methods of secondary containment for ASTs. Firstly, spill pallets are platforms that can hold up to four drums and meet EPA requirements. Containment sumps are another method, which can safely hold the contents of the tank and then some, with a capacity of 360 to 1,000 gallons. Sumps are usually available with a drain to make spill recovery easier. Dike tanks are steel secondary containment solutions that cover the main tanks, piping, and associated equipment, capturing any spills from the main tank. Berms are flexible containment systems that prevent oil and chemical spills and are available in various sizes, such as utility trays and foam wall spill berms. Containment pallets are elevated platforms that hold drums containing liquid and can support drums weighing up to 500 kg. Double-walled tanks with interstitial monitoring also satisfy the secondary containment requirement.
Secondary Containment Costs
The cost of secondary containment depends on the method chosen and the site needs. Regulatory requirements also contribute to costs, as per the SPCC regulation under the EPA. Construction costs depend on the tank's ability to withstand pressure gradients, climate conditions, and daily operations stress. Larger tanks require bigger secondary containment solutions, increasing costs. The facility catchment basin must be sufficiently large to hold the liquid from the largest container, including precipitation. Other costs to consider are the materials used, which depend on the tank's installation date and the type of substance stored. For example, clay and earthen containment areas must be tested for permeability.
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Regulatory requirements
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has implemented the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation (40 CFR Part 112), which applies to facilities with aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) holding potential pollutants, such as oils, fuels, and other hazardous materials. The SPCC regulation requires proper secondary containment methods to be in place and includes guidelines for the design and construction of secondary containment systems, as outlined in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Title 40 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 264. For example, Section 40 CFR 264.175(b) covers the design and construction of secondary containment systems, while Section 40 CFR 264.193(b) addresses the prevention of hazardous waste escape into soil and groundwater.
Some states within the US have additional regulatory requirements for ASTs. For instance, California's Aboveground Petroleum Storage Act (APSA) mandates secondary containment for ASTs storing 1,320 gallons or more of petroleum. Florida requires secondary containment for ASTs holding over 550 gallons of petroleum, especially to protect groundwater. Massachusetts mandates secondary containment for ASTs storing flammable or combustible liquids near environmentally sensitive areas. New York requires secondary containment for petroleum ASTs near water bodies.
Outside of the US, regulatory requirements for secondary containment of above-ground fuel tanks may vary. In Canada, the Canadian Environmental Protection Act (CEPA) outlines federal regulations, while specific regulations may differ between provinces. For example, Ontario enforces rigorous secondary containment standards for all fuel storage tanks through its Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA). In British Columbia, the Environmental Management Act mandates secondary containment for ASTs to prevent environmental damage, particularly in coastal regions.
To ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, it is essential to understand the specific regulations applicable to the location of the ASTs. Implementing proper secondary containment methods and maintaining detailed records of spills, response actions, and communications with authorities are crucial aspects of adhering to these requirements.
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Types of hazardous materials
Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are large metal tanks that store liquids and gases such as petroleum products, crude oil, chemicals, water, acids, and fertilizers. Due to the environmental impact of potential leaks, ASTs are subject to various regulations and safety requirements. These tanks often contain hazardous materials, and secondary containment methods are crucial to prevent spills and leaks.
The types of hazardous materials stored in above-ground fuel tanks vary and include:
- Oils, lubricants, greases, fuels, and kerosenes.
- Mineral spirits, lubricating oil, kerosene, and vegetable oils.
- Petroleum products, crude oil, acids, fertilizers, and water.
- Explosive organic liquids.
These materials are considered hazardous due to their potential environmental impact and the risks they pose to human health and safety. For example, fuels and oils are often flammable, while chemicals and acids can be corrosive and toxic.
Secondary Containment for Hazardous Materials
Secondary containment methods are essential to prevent the release of these hazardous materials into the environment. Different types of secondary containment systems are available, including:
- Containment sumps: Made of high-resistance polyethylene or PVC, these sumps can contain leaks and spills from tanks storing oil, chemicals, petroleum products, and other hazardous materials.
- Dike tanks: Steel secondary containment solutions that cover the main tanks, piping, and associated equipment. Any spills or leaks are captured by the dike, preventing their release into the surrounding area.
- Berms: Flexible containment systems that prevent oil and chemicals from spilling. Various types of berms are available, such as utility trays and drive-over spill berms.
- Containment pallets: Elevated platforms that hold drums containing liquid. These pallets can support heavy weights and prevent spills from contaminating the environment.
- Double-walled tanks: These tanks have an outer wall that protects the inner tank from the elements and contains leaks. Leak detectors between the walls activate alarms in the event of a breach.
The choice of secondary containment method depends on various factors, including the type of material stored, the size of the tank, and local regulations. Implementing effective secondary containment practices is crucial to mitigate environmental risks and ensure compliance with safety standards.
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Installation guidelines
The installation of secondary containment for above-ground fuel tanks is crucial to prevent leaks and spills, ensuring compliance with regulations and safeguarding the environment. Here are detailed guidelines for the installation process:
Determine the Need for Secondary Containment:
Firstly, assess if secondary containment is necessary. This is typically mandated by local, state, or federal regulations when dealing with hazardous materials such as oils, fuels, chemicals, or pollutants. Understand the specific requirements outlined by regulatory bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and local authorities.
Select the Appropriate Containment System:
Choose a containment system suitable for the type and volume of substances stored. Common options include spill pallets, containment sumps, berms, sealed-floor rooms, or double-walled tanks. Consider the compatibility of the containment material with the stored substances to ensure effective containment in case of a leak.
Size and Capacity Considerations:
For a single container, the secondary containment capacity should be at least 110% of the primary container's volume. If multiple containers are involved, the secondary containment should be either 10% of the aggregate volume of all containers or 150% of the volume of the largest container, whichever is greater. This ensures sufficient capacity to capture any spills or leaks.
Installation of Containment Structures:
Install the chosen containment structure securely, following manufacturer guidelines and industry standards. For example, when using containment sumps, ensure they are correctly positioned below the surface of the lowest level of the tank to capture any leaks effectively. Similarly, when using sealed-floor rooms, construct them to provide an airtight space that prevents liquids from escaping in the event of a leak.
Implement Leak Detection Systems:
Integrate leak detection systems into the secondary containment setup. Double-walled tanks, for instance, often have leak detectors that float when inner tank leaks occur, triggering audible or visual alarms. Other leak detection methods include interstitial monitoring and routine manual inspections.
Labeling and Signage:
Clearly label the secondary containment and the fuel tanks themselves. Labels should include hazard warnings, the type of material stored, storage capacity, and a unique tank ID number. Additionally, post "No Smoking" signs in both English and Spanish if the stored contents are flammable.
Regular Maintenance and Inspections:
Establish a regular maintenance and inspection routine. Monthly inspections are recommended, but weekly checks may be necessary for specific containment designs or when using impermeable materials like concrete. Keep detailed records of inspections, including any deficiencies found, and promptly address any issues to maintain the integrity of the containment system.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively install and maintain secondary containment for above-ground fuel tanks, reducing the risk of environmental damage and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
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Leak detection and monitoring
Regulatory Requirements
Facilities with above-ground storage tanks (ASTs) containing potential pollutants such as fuels, oils, and chemicals are typically subject to regulations like the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation (40 CFR Part 112) in the United States. These regulations outline specific requirements for secondary containment and leak detection to ensure compliance and minimize environmental impact.
Interstitial Monitoring
Interstitial monitoring is a method where the space between the primary and secondary containment barriers is monitored. This can be achieved using hydrocarbon-sensitive sensor cables or probes connected to a monitoring console. In the event of a leak, hydrocarbons are detected, and an alarm is triggered. Interstitial monitoring is often a required method for underground storage tanks and can also be applied to above-ground tanks with double-wall containment systems.
Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR)
SIR is a method that analyzes inventory, delivery, and dispensing data over a period (typically 30 to 60 days) to determine if a fuel tank system is leaking. It can detect leaks as low as 0.1 to 0.2 gallons per hour, meeting federal requirements. SIR is a vendor-supplied service that provides tank tightness testing and helps identify potential leaks over time.
Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG)
ATG systems continuously monitor fuel levels, temperature, and idle times to detect leaks. These systems can be installed in tanks and are often used in combination with other methods to provide real-time data for advanced fuel asset management and leak detection. ATG systems are particularly useful for detecting leaks during quiet periods when the tank is not dispensing fuel.
Monitoring Wells and Sensors
Monitoring wells are installed around the tank site, and sensors are placed within these wells to detect leaks. This method can identify the presence of liquids or hydrocarbon vapors in the groundwater surrounding the tank. A minimum of two wells is recommended for a single tank, and sensors can be placed at the lowest point to detect leaks efficiently.
Containment Sumps and Berms
Containment sumps and berms are physical secondary containment solutions that prevent spills and leaks from reaching the environment. Sumps are often equipped with drains to facilitate spill recovery, while berms offer flexible containment systems for oil and chemicals. Although they do not directly detect leaks, they provide a critical layer of protection by capturing spills and preventing their spread.
The choice of leak detection and monitoring methods depends on factors such as tank design, regulatory requirements, and the nature of the stored liquids. A combination of methods is often employed to ensure effective secondary containment and prompt leak detection for above-ground fuel tanks.
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Frequently asked questions
Secondary containment for above-ground fuel tanks is a safety measure to prevent spills and leaks. It involves having a second tank or barrier that surrounds the primary tank, which will capture and hold any liquid that leaks or spills out of the primary tank, preventing it from contaminating the surrounding environment.
Secondary containment is necessary for above-ground fuel tanks to comply with federal, state, and local regulations. In the US, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires facilities with a total above-ground oil storage capacity of greater than 1,320 gallons to meet Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) requirements. Secondary containment acts as a security blanket, providing an essential line of defence in the event of a failure of the primary tank.
There are several methods of secondary containment for above-ground fuel tanks, including:
- Containment sumps: made of high-resistance polyethylene or PVC, these sumps can withstand corrosive environments and typically have a capacity of 360 to 1,000 gallons.
- Dike tanks: steel secondary containment solutions that cover the main tank, piping, and associated equipment. Any spills are captured by the dike, preventing release into the surrounding area.
- Berms: flexible containment systems made of various materials that prevent oil and chemicals from spilling.
- Containment pallets: elevated platforms that hold drums containing liquid and can support weights of up to 500 kg.
- Double-walled tanks: tanks within tanks, providing a secondary containment solution in one unit.
The cost of secondary containment depends on various factors, including the size of the tank, the containment volume required, and the materials used. Regulatory requirements also contribute to the costs, as certain materials and construction methods may be mandated by federal, state, or local regulations.
