4-1

Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers

CHAPTER 4 

Aboveground Storage Tanks 

and Containers

This chapter summarizes:

 Regulations for aboveground fuel storage tanks

 Prevention of spills, overfills, and corrosion

 Containment options and drainage for tanks and containers

4.1 Regulatory Background

There are many overlapping federal regulations for aboveground storage tanks

(ASTs) and containers. Unfortunately, many of these requirements are found

indirectly as pieces of regulations on other topics.  few of the more important

regulations with AST requirements ar

 Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rules (40 CFR 112) (

Chapter 1, Environmental and Emergency Response Planning and Section 4.2

in this chapter)

 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) (40 CFR 1

Chapter 9, Wastewater and Stormwater) 

 International Fire Code (IFC) published by the International Code Counci

 National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) 1 − Uniform Fi

 NFPA 30 − Flammable and Combustible Liquids C

 NFPA 30A − Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair 

 U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) requirements for transferring oil or hazard

materials in bulk (33 CFR 154

 Occupational Health and Safety Act (OSHA) requirements for flammable 

and combustible liquids (29 CFR 1910.106

 Requirement for hazardous waste containers (40 CFR 265, Subpart I) a

tanks (40 CFR 265, Subpart J) (see Chapter 7, Hazardous and Recycled Waste

Most states have adopted the IFC or NFPA 1 as their state fire code. If your faci

is located in a metropolitan area, the chances are good that your local fire department has modified and adopted the IFC or NFPA. These standards have additi

requirements for designing, installing and operating ASTs containing fuels an

hazardous materials. Be sure to check with your local or state fire marshal to see

what guidelines they have adopted.

Additionally, over 35 states have their own regulatory programs that impose additional, or more stringent, AST requirements (see Appendix 4-1 and Section 4

 Motor vehicles with fuel tanks 

for self-propulsion (aircraft, 

trucks, buses, aviation ground 

service equipment, dozers) are 

not required to have secondary 

containment (40 CFR 112.1(d)(7)).

 Mobile refuelers that store fuel for 

transfer operations are required 

to provide containment during 

transfer operations. When parked 

or not operating, mobile refuelers 

should be located in areas with 

containment and/or diversionary 

structures and near spill response 

equipment (40 CFR 112.7(c)).

 Mobile or portable containers 

of petroleum greater than 

55-gallon capacity, including 

towed bowsers when not in use, 

are required to have secondary 

containment sized to hold the 

capacity of the largest container 

(40 CFR 112.8(c)(11)). This 

sized secondary containment 

requirement also applies to totes 

and tanks (40 CFR 112.8(c)(2)).

 State agencies and local fire 

marshals require compliance 

with fire codes for aboveground 

storage of flammable and 

combustible liquids, such as 

the International Fire Code or 

the National Fire Protection 

Association Standards.

The Law Says
4-2 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

4.2 Spill Prevention, Control, and 

Countermeasure Requirements

As mentioned in Chapter 1, SPCC requirements apply to facilities with a tota

AST oil capacity of over 1,320 gallons in containers of 55 gallons or larger. It al

applies if the total buried storage capacity is over 42,000 gallons. The SPCC rul

exempts buried storage tanks and ancillary equipment when tanks are subject 

to 40 CFR part 280 discussed in Chapter 3, Underground Storage Tanks. Th

SPCC rule applies specifically to a facility’s maximum storage capacity, regardless

of the operational capacity or whether the tanks are completely full. Use the

worksheet in Appendix 4-2 to determine whether your facility is subject to SPCC

requirements.

4.2.1 Secondary Containment Requirements

The goal of the SPCC rule is to prevent discharges of oil into navigable waters

and one of the primary ways to achieve this goal is to require secondary containment. There are two types of secondary containment requirements discussed

in the SPCC regulations: general and specific. General secondary containment

requirements address the most likely oil discharge from a facility; specific secondary containment requirements—sometimes called sized secondary containment 

requirements—address a major container or tank failure. All facilities must meet

the general secondary containment requirements; bulk storage containers and 

tanks must also meet the specific containment requirements.

At regulated facilities, all areas with the potential for a discharge are subject to the

general secondary containment provisions (40 CFR 112.7(c)), which require that

these areas be designed with appropriate containment or diversionary structures 

to prevent harmful discharges. Examples of general secondary containment are

 Impervious dikes, berms, retaining walls, and curbin

 Culverts, guttering, or other drainage systems, including stormwater 

retention ponds

 Weirs or dam-like structures generally used with skimmers

 Booms and sorbent materials used to recover liquid

 Barriers such as spill mats and storm drain cover

 Drip pans typically used with product-dispersing hoses and uncoupling

hoses

 Sumps and collection systems

Areas where specific types of containers or activities occur are also subject to

additional, more stringent specific containment requirements (40 CFR 112.8). I

general, the specific containment provisions require containment sized to capture the volume of the single largest compartment or container, plus sufficient 

freeboard for precipitation.

The following sections summarize the secondary containment requirements for

oil-containing units, such as:

 Bulk storage containers and tank

The EPA’s SPCC Guidance for 

Regional Inspectors is also useful 

for facility operators (see Section

4.10, For More Information). For 

instance, it clarifies the relationship 

between the various general and 

specific secondary containment 

requirements.

Did You Know?
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers

 Mobile or portable containers

 Oil-filled operational equipmen

 Oil-filled manufacturing equipmen

 Mobile refuelers

 Motor vehicles

 Oil/water separator

 Piping and loading and unloading racks (discussed in Chapter 5, Piping and

Pipelines)

4.2.1.1 Bulk Storage Containers and Tanks

SPCC defines bulk storage containers as any container used to store oil with a

capacity of 55 gallons or more, such as emergency generators, day tanks, product 

dispensing tanks, and used oil tanks. ASTs are considered bulk storage containers

In addition to complying with the general secondary containment requirements

above, each facility must comply with specific secondary containment and other 

requirements for bulk storage containers including:

 Containment sized to hold the entire capacity of the largest single container 

or tank with sufficient freeboard to also contain precipitation. This is usually

the amount of precipitation from a 24-hour 25-year storm.

 Diked areas sufficiently impervious to contain spilled oil

 Bypass or release values must be kept closed to contain rainwater until it can

be inspected for contaminants and discharged under supervision (note: the 

draining of rainwater from containment must be documented).

 Visual inspection of the outside of the container for signs of deterioration and

leaks. Tank supports and foundations should be checked

 Regular integrity testing using hydrostatic testing, radiographic testing,

ultrasonic testing, acoustic emissions testing, or other nondestructive shell 

thickness testing. Descriptions of these methods are discussed in Appendix

4-3.

 Integrity testing after tank repairs

 Prompt repairs of visible leaks from tank seams, gaskets, rivets, and bolts

 Equipping tanks with one or more of the following level gauging systems and

alarms to prevent spills:

• High-level alarm

• High liquid pump cut-off device

• Communication system between the tank gauger and pump station

• Liquid level meters, such as digital computers, telepulse system, or visual 

gauges

• Liquid-level-sensing devices (should be regularly tested for proper 

operation)

• Other devices that provide equivalent protection (such as relief valves and

overflow lines)
4-4 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

Buried tanks and bunker tanks (partially buried) must have coating or cathodic

protection and regular testing of such systems. The bottom of the ASTs may 

subject to extensive corrosion, which may not be evident during visual inspections. Corrosion protection can be provided by dielectric coatings and carefully 

engineered cathodic protection. Some facilities have installed double-bottom 

tanks to reduce the corrosion factor.

Your SPCC Plan must describe how your tank design and operations comply with these requirements (see Chapter 1, Environmental and Emergenc

Response Planning).

4.2.1.2 Mobile or Portable Containers

Mobile or portable storage containers, such as 55-gallon drums, skid tanks, totes,

bowsers, and emergency backup generators (if greater than 55 gallons), also 

require general secondary containment.

Size-specific secondary containment is required for mobile or portable containers 

(other than mobile refuelers). The specific secondary containment (for example,

dikes or catchment basins) must hold 100% of the capacity of the largest container and additional volume for precipitation (40 CFR 112.8(c)(11)). To comply wit

this requirement, the facility might need to designate an area of the installation 

to locate mobile containers when not in use.

In addition, oil-filled tank trucks and railcars used only within the facility boundaries are regulated under the SPCC rule as mobile or portable containers. If ta

trucks or rail cars are used in commerce and travel to other facilities, they would 

be regulated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) in

4.2.1.3 Oil-filled Operational Equipment

Oil-filled operational equipment includes systems containing oil to enable operation of the equipment. Specifically, it is equipment with an oil storage container

(or multiple containers) where the presence of oil is intrinsic to the operation of 

the device and facilitates the function of the equipment. Oil is not consumed by

oil-filled operational equipment. Examples of oil-filled operational equipment

include hydraulic systems, lubricating systems (including lubricating systems for 

pumps, compressors, and other rotating equipment), gear boxes, machine coolant systems, heat transfer systems, transformers, and other electrical equipment.

Oil-filled electrical and operational equipment must comply with the general

secondary containment requirements. Because this equipment does not require

frequent transfer of oil, there are no additional specific secondary containment 

requirements.

4.2.1.4 Oil-filled Manufacturing Equipment

Oil-filled manufacturing equipment stores oil that is incidental to a manufacturing activity or process to create or modify a finished product. Again, oil is no

consumed by oil-filled manufacturing equipment. Examples of oil-filled manufacturing equipment include reactors, mixing tanks, dryers, heat exchangers,

distillation columns, and flow-through process tanks. Oil-filled manufacturing

equipment is subject to the general secondary containment requirements.
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers

4.2.1.5 Mobile Refuelers

TheEPA defines a mobile refueler as a bulk storage container onboard a vehi

or towed that is designed or used solely to store and transport fuel for transfer 

into or from an aircraft, motor vehicle, locomotive, vessel, ground service equipment, or other oil storage container.

This definition is also intended to include vehicles with cargo tanks or tank trucks

used to fuel or defuel aircraft, tanks, or motor vehicles. This definition is not

intended to include mobile or portable containers that are not involved in fueling 

activities.

Mobile refuelers are exempt from the specific secondary containment requirements to contain the capacity of the largest compartment or container. Instead,

the general secondary containment requirements to address a most likely spill 

scenario apply to mobile refuelers during all periods of operations. For instance, 

containment such as drip pans, absorbent socks and mats, and readily available 

emergency response equipment are required during fuel transfer if permanent 

secondary containment or drainage collection systems are not in place. The

exemption from sized secondary containment requirements was designed for 

vehicles and portable containers that move locations frequently. The exemption

does not apply to mobile refuelers used primarily for the bulk storage of oil in 

a fixed location (for example, a refueler that no longer can move or conduct 

transfers and is left only to serve as a bulk storage container). Some states have 

more specific definitions. For instance, in Florida a mobile tank is defined as an 

AST that is moved to a different location at least once every 180 days (otherwise

it is a bulk storage container). In addition, check with your host installation to see

if they provide parking areas with secondary containment for overnight parking 

of mobile refuelers containing fuel.

4.2.1.6 Motor Vehicles

Aircraft, automobiles, sport utility vehicles, buses, self-propelled aviation ground

service equipment, and construction vehicles (for example, bulldozers) are 

exempt from SPCC requirements (40 CFR 112.1(d)). These are defined as mot

vehicles where the petroleum fuel is used only for self-propulsion of the vehicle 

(and not stored on the vehicle for transfer to another vehicle). Tank trucks that are

used in interstate commerce are not subject to SPCC requirements, as they are

regulated by D

4.2.1.7 Oil/Water Separators

The intended use of the oil/water separator determines whether it is subject

to SPCC regulations. Oil/water separators used exclusively as part of a permitte

wastewater treatment process are not subject to SPCC requirements. Oil/wate

separators to remove water from oil, sometimes called free-water knockout tanks 

or product recovery tanks, are regulated as bulk storage tanks under the SPCC rule

Properly designed, maintained, inspected, and operated oil/water separators

may be used as part of a facility’s drainage systems to meet the general or 

specific secondary containment requirements (see Chapter 9, Wastewater and 

Stormwater). The design and capacity of such systems need to be sufficient to

handle the expected incoming oil and water to prevent a discharge of oil and 
4-6 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

untreated wastewater. The layer of oil in most oil/water separators is typically

pumped out on a regular basis and sent for recycling (see Chapter 7, Hazardous 

and Recycled Waste).

Separate containers used to store recovered oil from an oil/water separator 

(sometimes called slop tanks) would meet the definition of a bulk storage container and must comply with general and secondary requirements.

4.2.1.8 Loading and Unloading Racks

Petroleum transfer areas and loading and unloading racks are required to have

secondary containment. Refer to Chapter 5, Piping and Pipelinesfor more information about the SPCC requirements for these areas. Other oil transfers that a

to and from SPCC-regulated containers and equipment also are covered by SPC

regulations. Examples include fuel dispensing operations, tank refueling operations, and tank emptying operations

4.2.2 Facility Drainage and Security

Facility drainage systems must be designed to prevent oil discharges to surface 

water in event of a spill. For instance:

 Drainage from diked areas must be controlled by manual open−close valves

or manually activated pumps. Flapper valves are not acceptable. Drainage

valves should be closed and locked (electronically controlled and automated 

systems are acceptable) when not in use.

 Any stormwater that accumulates in the secondary containment must be

inspected, documented, and then properly managed. If no sheen is present,

then the stormwater can be discharged to the ground or storm drain. If any

oil sheen is observed, the contaminated water cannot be discharged to the 

ground. The contaminated water should be diverted to an on-site treatment

plant or oil/water separator, or drummed for off-site disposal.

 Draining of containment structures must be observed at all times, and valves

should be closed when completed.

 Adequate records of the drainage must be kept (date, time, personnel names,

results of visual inspection).

You should control drainage from undiked areas, such as tank car and truck 

loading and unloading areas, truck wash down areas, piping and manifold areas, 

garage bays, and fuel islands. Undiked areas can be designed to control drainage

through a combination of curbing, trenches, catchment basins, and retention 

ponds, as necessary, to contain a spill. If a paved area is improperly graded or if a

curb is deteriorating, contaminated water may escape from the facility.

4.2.3 Security

Your facility must have adequate security to deter vandalism and prevent unauthorized access to containers and equipment that could be involved in an oil 

discharge. For instance:

 Starter controls on pumps should be locked in the off position or located 

in an area restricted to authorized personnel when not operating or in 

standby mode.

Drain valves must be closed when 

not in use. Diked areas should be 

free of pooled oil. Spills should be 

removed promptly.

Don’t Forget...
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers

 Tank flow valves and drain valves (such as water draw-off valves, sampling

valves, and sparge valves) should be securely locked when not operational.

 Out-of-service and loading and unloading pipe connections should be

secured in a closed position.

 The facility should be fully fenced, and entrance gates should be locked and

or guarded.

 There should be adequate lighting at night to detect spills

4.2.4 Inspections and Records

All potential spill sites where petroleum or hazardous materials are stored or

handled must be inspected frequently and regularly in accordance with procedures in the facility’s SPCC Plan. Inspection procedures need to meet the requirements of relevant industry standards (such as those published by the Ameri

Petroleum Institute [API] or Steel Tank Institute [STI]). Inspection and 

testing records must be kept for at least 3 years. Exhibit 4−1 lists the types of 

records that should be maintained at the facility.

4.2.5 Training and Staffing

Oil-handling staff must be trained in operation and maintenance of equipment to

prevent discharges; protocols for responding to discharges; applicable pollution 

control laws, rules, and regulations; general facility operations; and the SPCC

Plan. Oil-handling staff also must be trained annually in known discharges o

failures, malfunctioning components, and any recently developed precautionary 

measures.

SPCC regulations also require designation of one person at each facility who is

accountable for discharge prevention and who reports to facility management. 

Refer to Chapter 10, Training for more information on SPCC trainin

EXHIBIT 4−1

AST Inspection and Maintenance Program Records

Aboveground Storage Tanks, Piping,

and Appurtenances

Dikes, Berms, Secondary Containment 

Systems

 Regular visual inspections and tank

integrity testing.

 Tank servicing, maintenance, cleaning,

and repairs.

 Supports and foundations (inspections 

for cracks, crumbling, deterioration, and 

seepage).

 Storage tank flow valves, pumps, flange 

joints, and expansion joints (regular 

visual inspections). Make sure they are 

working properly, free of leaks, and in 

locked position as appropriate.

 Storage tank level gauges and alarms 

(regular mechanical function testing and 

visual inspections).

 Containment dikes and berm integrity 

(regular visual inspections, especially after 

storms).

 Date, time, and signature of employee and

or manager who performed drainage of 

stormwater from diked containment areas.

 Loading and unloading area drainage 

system effectiveness.

 Spill response supplies are available and in 

good condition.
4-8 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

4.2.6 Environmental Equivalence and Impracticability 

Determinations

TheEPA wanted the SPCC rules to be more performance-based when they modified the regulations in 2002. For instace, EPA will allow deviations from 

requirements as long as the alternative measure provides equivalent environmental protection. If an SPCC requirement is inappropriate or can be achieve

through an alternative method based on good engineering practices, the facility 

can document and implement environmentally equivalent measures (40 CF

112.7(a)(2)). However, deviations are not allowed for general and specific secondary containment, training, and recordkeeping requirements. Environmentall

equivalent measures must be approved by a licensed Professional Engineer (

and documented in the SPCC Pla

If the facility owner and/or operator is incapable of installing secondary containment, then an impracticability determination can be made. Impracticability ca

be decided based on space and geographical limitations, local zoning ordinances, fire codes, safety, or other good engineering practice reasons. Impracticability

cannot be based solely on economic cost. If impracticability has been determined, then the facility must substitute the following measures in place of

secondary containment (112.7(d)):

 Periodic integrity testing of bulk storage containers, periodic integrity testing,

and leak testing of valves and piping associated with the containers

 An oil spill contingency plan following the provisions of 40 CFR 109.5, whic

are more detailed and burdensome than those required in 40 CFR 112,

including: 

• Defining authorities, responsibilities, and duties of persons, organizations,

and agencies to be involved in planning or directing oil removal 

operations

• Establishing notification procedures for the purpose of early detection and

timely notification of an oil discharge

• Providing full resource capability and commitment during an oil discharge

situation

• Providing well-defined and specific actions to be taken after discovery and

notification of an oil discharge

• Specifying procedures to facilitate recovery of damages and enforcement 

measures

  written commitment of resources, equipment, and materials required to

control and remove any quantity of oil discharged that may be harmful

Areas where the technical impracticability determination can be used are

 General containment (areas with potential for discharge, such as piping,

oil-filled operating and manufacturing equipment, and non-rack–related 

transfer areas)

 Loading and unloading racks

 Bulk storage container

 Mobile or portable oil containers
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers

4.3 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination 

System Tanks

Chapter 9, Wastewater and Stormwater discusses NPDES requirements (4

122) in more detail. Permits issued under the NPDES program often con

requirements for tank management, specifically under the stormwater section of 

the permit. Most states have authorization to enforce the NPDES permit prog

and have their own stormwater general permits that may address tank management issues. Typical items included in the stormwater permits are

 When the facility is operating, inspect tanks at least monthly for potential 

leaks, and ensure that appropriate action is taken by implementing tracking 

or follow-up procedures.

 Wash water from tank cleaning is not allowed to go onto the ground or into 

the storm drain system.

4.4 International Fire Code

The IFC is the fire code usually adopted by state fire marshals. The IFC inclu

design and operational standards for various types of facilities, processes, and 

materials. Several sections within the IFC may be applicable to DLA Ene

operations; these sections specifically address:

 Combustible and flammable liquids storage

 Aviation facilitie

 Motor fuel dispensing facilities and repair garages

 Hazardous material

 Flammable gases

 Flammable solids

 Liquefied petroleum gases

 Oxidizer

The IFC also includes general precautions against fire (such as prohibiting accumulations of combustible waste and stating where dumpsters should be placed

and emergency planning and preparedness requirements.

Specific operational requirements for combustible and flammable liquids tanks 

include:

 Maintaining fire protection and suppression systems

 Assessing the site for fire and explosion hazards after a spill or leak if the fire

code official determines that there is a concern, and submitting the report to 

the local fire chief within 60 days

 Providing secondary containmen

 Providing various identification and warning labels on the tank

 Color coding or labeling the tank’s loading and unloading piping

 Providing a permanent sign on the fill point of the tank documenting the

filling procedure and the tank calibration chart
4-10 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

 Providing guard posts, ballards or other approved protection for tanks,

piping, valves, and fitting for protection from vehicular impact

 Ensuring warning signs are visible to vehicles around pipeline

 Conducting testing of manual control valves and check valves under normal 

and emergency conditions

 Having operational procedures in place that require the person filling the

tank to determine the remaining gallons available to reach 90% of the tank’s 

capacity prior to filling the tank

 Providing spill containers at least 5 gallons in size for each fill connectio

 Keeping combustible materials, drums, and barrels away from diked area

 Removing and disposing out-of-service tanks in accordance with specific

procedures

 Requiring minimum aisle space of 4 feet between piles or racks of flammable

drums

 Managing bulk tank farms, wharves, bulk fuel transfers, and solvent stills in 

specified manners

4.5 National Fire Protection Association

NFPA publishes a series of codes used to design and operate tanks and oth

operations that may pose a fire hazard. Some states have adopted NFPA standards as their state fire cod. A few of the key NFPA codes are listed belo

that there are many other NFPA codes that may be applicable to DLA E

operations.

 NFPA 1 − Uniform Fire 

 NFPA 30 − Flammable and Combustible Liquids C

 NFPA 30A − Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair 

 NFPA 52 − Compressed Natural Gas Vehicular Fuel System

 NFPA 57 − Liquefied Natural Gas Vehicular Fuel System

 NFPA 58 − Liquefied Petroleum Gas

 NPFA 303 − Fire Protection Standard for Marinas and Boat

 NFPA 307 − Standard for the Construction and Fire Protection of Mar

Terminals, Piers, and Wharv

 NFPA 326 − Standard for the Safeguarding of Tanks and Containers for En

Cleaning, or Repai

 NFPA 329 − Recommended Practice for Handling Releases of Flammab

Combustible Liquids and Gase

Consult your local or state fire chief to determine what they require. Two of these

standards are discussed in more detail below.
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

4.5.1 NFPA 1 – Uniform Fire Code

NFPA 1 includes design standards for ASTs and includes some operati

requirements.

NFPA 1 also has sections on many different types of operations that may 

applicable to DLA Energy operations. These sections incl

 Combustible waste and refuse

 Airports and heliport

 Marinas and boatyards

 Motor fuel dispensing facilities and repair garages

 General storag

 Refuelin

 Hazardous material

 Compressed gases and cryogenic fluids

 Flammable and combustible liquids

 Flammable solids

 Liquefied petroleum gases and natural gases

 Oxidizers and organic peroxides

NFPA 1 requires the following for tan

 Providing an emergency action plan; training; coordinating with local

authorities; shutting down storage tanks and testing associated alarms, 

interlocks, and controls; and posting the plan.

 Inspecting and maintaining the area around the tanks; addressing proper

maintenance and inspection of fire prevention equipment; having 

maintenance and operational practices that control leakage and prevent 

spillage; keeping the area free of weeds, trash, and other combustible 

materials; keeping access ways clear; and keeping combustible wastes 

and residues in operational areas to a minimum, stored in covered metal 

containers, and disposed of daily.

 Labeling tanks in a specific manner. Isolated tanks have additional labeling

requirements.

 Providing written procedures to prevent overfilling tanks

4.5.2 NFPA 30 – Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code

NFPA 30 addresses design and operations of fixed tanks, portable tanks a

containers, piping systems, facility, and wharves operations. Environment-related

requirements for fixed tanks include:

 Requiring vapor detection and liquid detection alarm systems for vaulted

tanks

 Defining minimum distances between tanks, other tanks, property line, and

buildings

 Controlling spillage from aboveground tanks through remote impounding, 

diking, or double walls. Specific design requirements are provided
4-12 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

 Testing requirement

 Providing an emergency action plan; training; coordinating with local

authorities; shutting down storage tanks and testing associated alarms, 

interlocks, and controls; and posting the plan

 Inspecting and keeping the area around the tanks free from weeds, trash, and

other combustible materials

 Maintaining accessways

 Providing formal written procedures to prevent overfilling the tan

 Labeling tanks per specific requirements

 Securing unsupervised, isolated tanks

Specific requirements are also listed for loading and unloading operations and 

facilities, including tank vehicles, tank cars, and wharves.

4.6 U.S. Coast Guard Requirements

33 CFR 154, Facilities Transferring Oil or Hazardous Material in Bulk, applie

facilities transferring oil or hazardous materials to and from vessels with a total 

capacity of 250 barrels or more. The operations manual required by this regulation is detailed; some of the required environment-related information includes

 Procedures to be followed if the cargo spills or leaks, for each specific carg

 Description and instructions for the use of drip and discharge collection and

vessel slop reception facilities, if any

 Description and location of each emergency shutdown syste

 Quantity, types, location, and instructions for use of fire extinguishing 

systems

 Procedures for reporting and initial containment of oil or hazardous material

discharges

 Summary of applicable federal, state, and local oil or hazardous material 

pollution laws and regulations

 Marking each transfer hose with the name or type of material that may be 

transferred through the hose

 Procedures for tank cleaning or stripping operations, if conducte

 Description of the vapor control system’s design and operatio

The regulations also address discharge containment and discuss how much

discharge containment equipment is required and how quickly discharges must 

be removed.

33 CFR 154 requires response plans to address spills at facilities that could be

expected to cause substantial harm to the environment under 33 CFR 154.1015

(note that these plans are different from the Facility Response Plans discusse

in 40 CFR as mentioned in Chapter 1, Environmental and Emergency Response

Planning).
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

4.7 OSHA Requirements

OSHA requirements are found in 29 CFR and address health and safety requirements. Some of the OSHA regulations could be interpreted as also pro

environmental protection. For instance, two potentially applicable regulations 

and some of the specific requirements of each are discussed below.

4.7.1 Flammable and Combustible Liquids

29 CFR 1910.106 applies to management of flammable and combustible liquids.

Specific requirements for drainage or diked areas (one must be provided) include:

 Tank farm drainag

• Must end up in vacant land or a basin having a capacity of at least the 

largest tank in the tank farm

• Must not expose any tank or off-site area to flames if the fuel is on fire

 Diked area

• Must have a capacity of at least the largest tank in the tank farm

• Walls must be constructed of earth, steel, concrete, or solid masonry 

designed to be watertight and to withstand a full hydrostatic head

• Earth walls over 3 feet high must have a 2-foot-wide flat section at the to

• Average height of the walls must not be over 6 feet above the interior grad

• No loose combustible material or empty or full drums are allowed inside

the diked area

Specific tank spacing and size limitations for portable tanks are given. 

Requirements for service stations include

 Dispensing areas of service stations must be graded or curbing and door sills

must be provided so that a spill will not flow into the buildings.

 Crankcase drainings and other flammable and combustible wastes shall not 

be dumped into the sewers but must be stored in tanks or drums outside the 

building until taken off-site.

4.7.2 Hazard Communication

The purpose of the hazard communication rules in 29 CFR 1910.1200 is to ensur

that the information on the hazards of chemicals used by workers is transmitted 

to the workers. Hazard communication requires specific labeling of tanks and

containers used in the work place.

4.8 Hazardous Waste Tanks

The hazardous waste regulations in 40 CFR 264 Subpart J (treatment, storage

disposal, and recycle facility [TSDRF] permitted tanks) and 40 CFR 265 Subpart

J (hazardous waste generator tanks) provide specific standards for design, construction, testing, and inspections of ASTs that are used for storage of hazardou

wastes. The requirements listed in these regulations are specific and comprehensive, and the regulations should be consulted when evaluating hazardous waste

tanks. Typical requirements include

 Specific design standards, such as:
4-14 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

• The tank must have a written assessment reviewed and certified by an

independent, qualified, licensed E in accordance with 40 CFR 270.11(

attesting that the system has sufficient structural integrity and is 

acceptable for hazardous waste storage.

• Secondary containment capacity must equal 100% of the capacity of the 

largest tank in the containment area plus the volume for a 24-hour, 25-

year storm (if the area is uncovered).

• Secondary containment systems must be designed, installed, and operated 

to prevent any migration of wastes or accumulated liquid out of the system 

to the soil, groundwater, or surface water at any time during the use of 

the tank system. Such containment must be capable of detecting and 

collecting releases and accumulated liquids until the collected material is 

removed. Specific containment systems design requirements are given.

• Installation of specific emissions controls for volatile materials

 Specific operational requirements, such as:

• Using appropriate controls to prevent spills from the tank or the

containment, including (1) spill prevention controls (for example, check 

valves, dry discount couplings); (2) overfill prevention controls (for 

example, level-sensing devices, high-level alarms, automatic feed cutoff, 

or bypass to a standby tank); and (3) maintenance of sufficient freeboard 

in uncovered tanks to prevent overtopping by wave or wind action or by 

precipitation.

• Developing and following a procedure for inspecting overfill controls and

leak detection equipment.

• Inspecting specific parts of the tank system and surrounding area daily

Note that small quantity generators of hazardous waste have slightly different

requirements (see Chapter 7, Hazardous and Recycled Waste).

Most states have been authorized to enforce the hazardous waste regulations. 

State hazardous waste regulations are often more stringent than federal requirements. Contact your state regulator to determine specific requirements.

4.9 State Requirements

Appendix 4-1 provides a list of states that have have their own AST regulations

Some of these states have delegated authority to implement the regulations 

to local agencies, such as regional boards or county and city agencies. Be sure

to check with your local and state agencies to determine if there are additional 

requirements for your ASTs. For instance, below are some state requirements tha

are more stringent than federal rules:

 Florida requires that stormwater accumulated in secondary containment 

be removed within 1 week of the rainfall event. Florida also requires spill 

and overfill prevention and other tank equipment for ASTs to be fro

manufacturers on a state-approved equipment list.

 In New York, all facilities regulated under Article 17, Title 10 of 

Environmental Conservation Law, Control of the Bulk Storage of Petroleu

must meet certain handling and storage requirements. ASTs must observ

State Requirements
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

rules for color coding of fill ports, shutoff valves, gauges, and check valves. 

In addition, the New York Oil Spill Prevention, Control and Compensat

Act (Article 12 of the Navigation Law) regulates oil terminals and transpo

vessels operating in the waters of the state that have a storage capacity of 

400,000 gallons or more.

 New Jersey requires a Discharge Prevention Program for large sites (i

site has a total storage capacity of 20,000 gallons or more for hazardous 

substances other than petroleum or petroleum products, or a total storage 

capacity of 200,000 gallons or more for hazardous substances of all kinds, 

including petroleum and non-petroleum products). Facilities must document 

their compliance by submitting two plans to the New Jersey Departmen

of Environmental Protection: (1) a Discharge Prevention, Containment, 

Countermeasure Plan and (2) a Discharge, Cleanup, and Removal P

 California standards for tanks systems establish minimum procedures for 

the management of all underground and aboveground tank systems that 

held hazardous materials or hazardous waste and are to be disposed of or 

reclaimed. This rule establishes procedures for on-site cleaning and cutting

during tank decommissioning, including written agency notification and 

independent certification of compliance with the regulations.

4.10 For More Information

For Information On... See...

AST Related Agencies

EPA Oil Spill Program and Resources www.epa.gov/oi

EPA Office of Emergency Management www.epa.gov/emerge

EPA SPCC Program http://www.epa.gov/oem/con

spcc/ index.htm

Tank Related Professional and Trade Associations

American Petroleum Institute (API) www.a

American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) www.astm

Fiberglass Tank and Pipe Institute (FTPI) www.fiberglasstankandpi

NACE International − The Corrosion Society www.nac

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) www.nf

Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) www.p

Steel Tank Institute (STI) www.steeltank

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) www.ul.com/global/eng/pag

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) www.asme

American Society of Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) www.as

American Welding Society (AWS) www.aws.o

Documents and References

SPCC Guidance for Regional Inspectors

https://www.epa.gov/oil-spills-prevention-and-preparedness-regulations/

spcc-guidance-regional-inspectors

For More Information
4-16 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

4.11 Action Items

Item

Date 

Started

Date 

Completed N/A Comment(s)

Verify that your liquid 

storage tanks meet 

industry standards for 

design, construction, 

alterations, and repairs.



Register your tank 

systems with a regulatory 

agency (usually a state 

agency).



Test your tanks for integrity to prevent accidental 

failures.



Prepare contingency 

and response plans to 

prevent releases and 

establish a plan of action 

in the event of a tank 

failure.



Train your staff in spill 

prevention and release

response.



Routinely inspect your 

tank systems and 

secondary containment 

for actual or potential 

product releases.



Manage tank system

wastes properly (including bottom water, 

removed paint); these 

may be considered 

hazardous waste.



Notify and report to 

regulatory agencies if a 

release is detected.



Maintain records of 

training, inspections, 

tank testing, registrations, 

self-inspections to prove

compliance.



Understand the varying 

secondary containment 

requirements for stationary containers, portable 

containers, oil-filled 

operational equipment, 

oil-filled manufacturing 

equipment, mobile

refuelers, motor vehicles,

and oil/water separators.



Action Items
4-17

Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

Appendix 4−1 States with Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations

Appendix 4−2 SPCC Facility Oil Capacity Worksheet

Appendix 4−3 Aboveground Storage Tank Integrity Testing Methods

CHAPTER 4 

Appendices
THIS PAGE LEFT 

INTENTIONALLY BLANK
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

Appendix 4-1: States with Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations

State AST Regulatory Citation1 Comments

Alabama Alabama Administrative Code (AAC) Cha

335−6−16 −Administrative Guidelines an

Procedures for the Alabama Underground a

Aboveground Storage Tank Trust F

Federal facilities are exempt.

Alaska Alaska Statutes Title 46, Chapter 4 − Oil 

Hazardous Substance Pollution Contr

State regulations require the submittal of an oil discharge prevention and contingency plan (which is 

similar to an SPCC Plan

Arizona 

Arkansas Arkansas Pollution Control and Ecol

Commission Regulation 12 − Storage Tan

Regulation

California California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 2

Division 4.5, Chapter 32 − Management of Tan

Many California municipalities have tank and SPCC

regulations; potentially under the fire marshal.

Colorado 7 Code of Colorado Regulations (CCR) 1101

Regulation 14 −Underground Storage Tan

and Aboveground Storage Tanks, Article 3

Aboveground Storage Tan

Connecticut N

Delaware Delaware Administrative Code, Title 7, Regula

1352 −Aboveground Storage Tan

State regulations require the preparation of a Release

Preparedness Plan (RPP), which is similar to but cont

more information than a SPCC Plan (information ca

be incorporated into the SPCC Plan to meet the stat

requirements).

District of

Columbia

N

Florida Florida Administrative Code (FAC) Chapter 62−76

−Aboveground Storage Tank Syste

State regulations are more stringent than federal for 

inspections, overfill protection, and reporting.

Georgia 

Hawaii 

Idaho 

Illinois Illinois Administrative Code, Title 41, Section 

Storage, Transportation, Sale and Use of Gasoli

and Volatile Oi

Regulations includes hazardous materials in addition to

oil for SPCC plans

Indiana 

Iowa Iowa Administrative Code (IAC) 661 Chapter 

Flammable and Combustible Liquids

SPCC Plan submittal to fire marshal could be require

Kansas Kansas Administrative Regulations (KAR) 2

Petroleum Products Storage Ta

Kentucky Kentucky Administrative Regulations

Title 815, Chapter 7, Subchapter 120 − Kentuck

Building Cod

Requires a permit for ASTs for petroleum products 

hazardous substances and hazardous material plan 

review.
4-20 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

State AST Regulatory Citation1 Comments

Louisiana Louisiana Administrative Code (LAC) Title 33, Par

Subpart 1. Water Pollution Control, Chapter 9 − Spill

Prevention and Contro

Requires the submittal of a Spill Preventio

and Control Plan (which is similar to an SPC

Plan) and includes hazardous materials in

addition to oil for these plans.

Maine Maine Revised Statutes (MRS) Title 38, Chapt

3, Subchapter 2−B − Oil Storage Facilities an

Groundwater Protection. Also Code of Mai

Regulations (CMR) Chapter 692 Siting of Oil Stora

Facilities.

Maryland Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title

Subtitle 10 − Oil Pollution and Tank Managem

Massachusetts 527 Code of Massachusetts Regulations (CMR) 9.0

− Board of Fire Prevention Regulations − Tanks 

Containers and also 520 CMR 12.00 Requirements fo

Installation of Tan

Michigan Michigan Administrative Code (MAC) Chapter 324, Pa

5 −Spillage of Oil and Polluting Materia

State regulations require preparation of 

a Pollution Incident Prevention Plan. 

document is similar to an SPCC Pla

Minnesota Minnesota Administrative Rule (MAR) Chapter 71

Aboveground Storage of Liquid Substance

Mississippi N

Missouri Missouri Code of State Regulations (CSR) Title 

Division 20, Chapter 15 − Petroleum Inspections. 10

Division 26 Chapter 1−Underground and Abovegrou

Storage Tanks. 10 CSR Division 26, Chapter 

Release Reportin

Montana Administrative Rules of Montana (ARM) Rule

Chapter 57 − Aboveground Storage Tan

Nebraska Nebraska Administrative Code (NAC) Title

Aboveground Storage Tan

Nevada Nevada Administrative Code (NAC) Chapter 

Petroleum Products and Antifre

New Hampshire New Hampshire Code of Administrative Rule

Code Admin. R.) Chapter Env−Wm 1402 − Control 

Aboveground Petroleum Storage Faciliti

New Jersey New Jersey Administrative Code, Title 7, Chapter

Subchapter 16 − Prevention and Control of Discharge 

Major Facilities and Subchapter 4 − Plan

Requires submittal of Discharge Preventi

Containment, and Countermeasures Plan

(DPCC), similar to SPCC Plan, for ma

facilities.

New Mexico New Mexico Administrative Code (NMAC) Titl

Chapter 5 − Petroleum Storage Tan

New York New York Codes, Rules and Regulations (NYCRR

6, Chapter V, Part 596, Hazardous Substance B

Storage Regulations, and Parts 612−614. New Yo

Environmental Conservation Law, Article 17, Tit

10 − Control of the Bulk Storage of Petroleum. Oil Spi

Prevention, Control and Compensation Act (Article 

of Navigation Law)

North Carolina North Carolina Oil Pollution and Hazardous Substa

Control Chapter 143, Section 215.96 − Oil Termina

Facility Registratio

ASTs are required to be registered with th

state if they meet the definition of oil terminal facility.
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

State AST Regulatory Citation1 Comments

North Dakota North Dakota Administrative Code (NDAC) Artic

–Petroleum Tank Release Compensation F

State regulations include release cleanup 

requirements only.

Ohio 

Oklahoma Oklahoma Administrative Code (OAC) Title 165, Ch

26 − Aboveground Storage Tan

Oregon 

Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Code Title 25, Chapter 245

Administration of the Storage Tank and Spill Preventi

Progra

State regulations require preparation and 

submittal of a Spill Prevention and Respons

Plan (SPRP). This document is similar t

SPCC with additional requirements

Rhode Island Oil Pollution Control Regulations Sections 1−18

Chapter 46−12 the Rhode Island General L

State regulations require the preparation of a 

Spill Prevention and Emergency Plan (S

This document is similar to an SPCC bu

requires more detailed figure.

South Carolina N

South Dakota South Dakota Administrative Rules (SDAR) 

74:56:03 − Aboveground Stationary Storage Tan

Tennessee 

Texas Texas Administrative Code (TAC) Chapter 

Subchapter F − Aboveground Storage Tanks. The Te

General Land Office (TGLO) also has a regulation for

spill prevention and response at waterfront facilities in 

31 TAC 1

The TGLO regulation requires waterfr

facilities that store or handle oil to submit response plans that have varying requirements 

based on the amount of oil storage.

Utah 

Vermont Vermont Aboveground Storage Tank Rules, Subchap

1−3

Virginia Virginia Administrative Code (VAC) Title 9, Age

Chapter 91 − Facility and Aboveground Storage Tan

(AST) Regulat

Oil-filled operational equipment is considered

bulk storage containers per state regulations.

Washington Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 17

Chapter 182 − Oil Spill Contingency Plan and Chapte

180 − Facility Oil Handling Standar

Applies only to those facilities transferring oil

to or from a tank vessel (ship), such as a barge 

or oil tanker, or to or from a pipeline

West Virginia West Virginia Code of State Rules (CSR) Title 47, Se

63 −Aboveground Storage Tan

Secondary containment required for AST

regardless of size.

Wisconsin Wisconsin Administration Code Safety and Professiona

Services (SPS) Chapter 310 − Flammable, Combustible

and Hazardous Liquids, SubchapterIV Gener

Storage

Wyoming Wyoming Water Quality Rules and Regulation

(WWQRR) Chapter 17 − Storage Ta

The state regulations require that the SPC

Plan must be submitted to the state agency

1AST regulations can include but are not limited to registration, design, construction, and/or operational requirements (ca

include tanks, piping, and containment). Citations are not all inclusive.

2

NA = not applicable (that is, state does not currently have regulations for A
THIS PAGE LEFT 

INTENTIONALLY BLANK
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

Appendix 4-2: SPCC Facility Oil Capacity Worksheet

Use this worksheet to calculate the storage capacity of all aboveground petroleum storage containers that are 55

gallons or more (including gasoline, diesel, JP−8, MOGAS, animal oils and fats, vegetable oils, grease, synthetic oi

motor oil, lube oil, mineral oils, heating oil, used oil, and oil mixed with other wastes).

Do not include the following in this worksheet

 Containers that are less than 55 gallons (such as pails)

 Container or tank capacities for non-petroleum products and other hazardous materials

 Tanks or other containers that have been permanently closed and are no longer used for storing petroleu

 The capacity of piping or secondary containmen

 Oil/water separators that are part of a permitted wastewater treatment proces

 Motor vehicles (cars, trucks, buses, self-propelled aviation ground service equipment, construction vehicles) 

Facilities with combined (indoor and outdoor) aboveground oil storage capacity greater than 1,320 gallons or a 

completely buried storage capacity greater than 42,000 gallons are required to implement the SPCC regulations

in 40 CFR 112

Aboveground Oil Storage* Applicable? 

Yes or No

Details (for example, location 

and/or description, identification number, or type)

Total

Number 

of Items 

On-site

Total Capacity (enter the size 

of each container, not how 

much it currently holds)

Tank #1

Tank #2

Tank #3

Tank #4

Tank #5

Tank #6

Tank #7

Tank #8

Tank #9

Tank #10

Tank #11

Tank #12

Mobile or portable tanks 

(mobile refuelers, bowsers)

Totes

Drums—unused product

Drums—waste or used oil

Other containers >55 gallons 

(remember to include heating 

oil, lube oil, solvents, fuel)

Generators (stationary or 

portable gen sets)
4-24 Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Contai

Aboveground Oil Storage* Applicable? 

Yes or No

Details (for example, location 

and/or description, identification number, or type)

Total

Number 

of Items 

On-site

Total Capacity (enter the size 

of each container, not how 

much it currently holds)

Oil-filled operational equipment (oil is intrinsic to operation, not consumed):

 Transformers

 Other electrical equipment

 Hydraulic systems

 Lubricating systems

 Other rotating equipment

 Heat transfer systems

 Gear boxes

Oil-filled manufacturing 

equipment:

 Reactors

 Mixing tanks

 Dryers

 Heat exchangers

 Flow-through process tanks

 Distillation columns

Oil storage associated with 

oil/water separators and not 

part of a permitted treatment 

system (such as slop tanks)

Kitchen or cafeteria oil and 

grease collection

TOTAL Gallons

Completely Buried Oil Storage* 

(Underground Storage Tanks)

Applicable? 

Yes or No

Details (for example, location 

and/or description, identification number, or type)

Total

Number 

of Items 

On-site

Capacity (Enter the size of 

each tank, not how much it 

currently holds.)

Tank #

Tank #

Tank #

Tank #

TOTAL Gallons

*Attach a continuation page to this form as necessary to identify other tanks, containers, and equipment containing oil.
Chapter 4 Aboveground Storage Tanks and Containers 

Appendix 4-3: Aboveground Storage Tank Integrity Testing Methods

EPA regulations require tank testing to be conducted in accordance with the written procedures developed for t

facility by the certifying engineer in the SPCC Plan. These procedures must consider relevant industry standar

in accordance with good engineering practices. Examples of relevant industry standards include the Steel Tan

Institute (STI) Standard for the Inspection of Aboveground Storage Tanks, SP001, and the American Petroleum Inst

(API) Standard 653, Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstructi

The following tests must be performed on the storage tanks

 Both periodic integrity testing of the storage facility and periodic integrity and leak testing of the associated

valves and piping must be performed on a regular schedule and whenever material repairs are made. Material 

repairs include removal or replacement of the annular plate ring, replacement of the container bottom, jacking 

of a container shell, installation of a 12-inch nozzle in the shell, replacement of a door sheet or tombstone in the 

shell, or other shell repairs. The frequency and type of testing depends on the size and design of the storage

facility.

 Along with visual inspection, other testing techniques must be employed, such as hydrostatic, radiographic,

ultrasonic, or acoustic emissions testing.

• Hydrostatic leak testing requires that a component be filled completely with a liquid such as water. Pressure is

slowly applied to the liquid until the required pressure is reached. This pressure test is held for the required

time, at which point the component is inspected visually to locate leaks.

• Industrial radiography testing is the process of performing non-destructive testing of materials using radiation 

from a radioactive materials source or a radiation-producing machine. Non-destructive testing (N

equipment and consumables assist in checking the structure (and thus, the strength) of material without 

physically taking samples.

• Ultrasonic testing uses sound waves to detect imperfections in material (like steel) and to measure material 

properties. The most commonly used ultrasonic testing technique is pulse-echo, wherein sound is

introduced into a test object and reflections (echoes) returned to a receiver from internal imperfections or 

from the part’s geometrical surfaces are analyzed.

• Acoustic emission testing listens for emissions from active defects and is very sensitive to defect activity when 

a structure is loaded beyond its service load in a proof test. It is a useful method for the investigation of

local damage in materials. One of the advantages to this method compared to otherNDT methods is 

possibility to observe damage processes during the entire load history without any disturbance to the 

specimen.

Integrity and leak testing of buried piping must be conducted at the time of installation, modification, construction,

relocation, or replacement.
THIS PAGE LEFT 

INTENTIONALLY BLANK