Regulatory Compliance for Storage Tanks in Different Industries

Regulatory Compliance for Storage Tanks in Different Industries

Storage tanks play a key role in various industries, from oil and gas to chemical manufacturing and agriculture. Ensuring the integrity and safety of these tanks is crucial, as leaks or failures can lead to environmental damage and health hazards. By prioritizing compliance, industries can mitigate risks, avoid legal penalties, and contribute to a cleaner environment.

AST and UST Regulations for all Industries

Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs) are storage containers that are installed above the ground level. These tanks can vary in size and are commonly used for storing petroleum fuel products, chemicals, and water. Their regulatory requirements typically regard design, installation, maintenance, and spill prevention.

Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) are tanks that are buried beneath the ground to store petroleum products, chemicals, or hazardous substances. Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) Subtitle I for underground storage tanks regulates to prevent leaks and protect groundwater. UST owners and operators must register their tanks, regularly monitor for leaks, implement measures to prevent releases, and demonstrate the financial ability to clean up any leaks.

While specific regulations can vary based on the type of industry and the materials stored, there are several common regulatory themes that apply broadly.

Permitting and Registration Requirements for Storage Tanks

Most industries require storage tank facilities to obtain permits or registrations from regulatory authorities. These documents authorize the operation of storage tanks and ensure that tanks are designed, constructed, and installed with structural integrity.

At a federal level, the EPA’s Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rule requires facilities to develop a SPCC to prevent spills and outline response procedures. This applies to establishments that store oil or hazardous substances in aboveground tanks with a total capacity exceeding 1,320 gallons.

Many states and localities also have their own permitting and registration requirements for storage tanks. Above ground storage tank inspection requirements include registering the tank with the local agency and obtaining a permit before installing or repairing an AST. In addition to these requirements, USTs must report leak detection systems.

Essential Spill Control Protocols for Storage Tanks

Facilities must develop and implement spill prevention plans. Since early detection helps prevent contamination, regular monitoring and use of leak detection systems are essential to promptly identify leaks or abnormal tank conditions. This includes scheduled maintenance and inspection of tanks to assess structural integrity and corrosion levels.

Response procedures must also be in place to effectively manage them if they occur. This often involves containment systems, spill kits, and employee training in emergency response protocols.

Effective Waste Management for Storage Tanks

Proper management and disposal of waste materials generated from tank operations are essential to prevent contamination. All waste materials should be properly classified and labeled as hazardous or non-hazardous by OSHA. If the waste is hazardous, it can only be disposed of at a certified hazardous waste facility.

AST and UST Regulations for Specific Industries

Agriculture Regulatory Requirements

In the agriculture industry, storage tanks are essential for holding fertilizers, pesticides, liquid feeds, and fuel. While many of these substances are pivotal for agricultural operations, they can pose significant risks to public health if not properly managed.

Above ground storage tanks storing fertilizers and pesticides must comply with the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA). FIFRA regulates the registration, distribution, sale, and use of pesticides to protect human health and the environment. All pesticides must undergo a registration process evaluating the ingredients, intended use, and potential health and environmental effects. Pesticides must have detailed labels with usage instructions and safety precautions.

The American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers (ASABE) sets standards for the construction of storage facilities for fertilizers and pesticides. Tanks used for storing liquid fertilizers and pesticides often need to be constructed from materials that are resistant to corrosion and chemical reactions. In addition, specifications for ventilation systems are required to control air quality within the storage facility, preventing the buildup of potentially harmful fumes.

Oil and Gas Regulatory Requirements

Tanks used for storing petroleum products, or other chemicals inevitably produce sediment byproducts that accumulate at the bottom of storage tanks over time, consisting of residue and impurities. Managing these waste products is critical for maintaining a safe and sustainable operation.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) publishes recommended practices that set industry standards for the design, construction, operation, maintenance, and inspection of storage tanks in the oil and gas industry.

API 650 and API 620 are both standards developed by the API. API 650 is ideal for larger, atmospheric tanks storing liquids at high temperatures but minimal pressure, typically used in oil and gas. API 620 focuses on pressurized tanks for lower temperatures, suitable for liquefied gases.

Chemical Regulatory Requirements

Process Safety Management (PSM) is a framework that applies to facilities that handle large quantities of hazardous chemicals. It aims to prevent major accidents caused by the accidental release of toxic, flammable, explosive or reactive chemicals. It requires a comprehensive program that addresses various aspects of safety, including hazard identification, safe work practices, employee training, and emergency preparedness.

Hazard Communication (HAZCOM) is a set of regulations that ensure that workers understand the hazards associated with the chemicals they encounter in their workplaces. Under HAZCOM, every hazardous chemical container must have a label that clearly shows the dangers. Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) are also required to explain the chemical’s hazards, safe handling procedures, and first-aid steps.

Follow Above Ground Storage Tank Inspection Requirements With PALA

For over 30 years, PALA has specialized in the construction of aboveground storage tanks. Our team offers extensive experience in designing, fabricating, constructing, maintaining, and repairing tanks built according to API-650 and API-620 standards. We also handle AWWA tank construction and ASME repairs. Whether you require a new tank installation or repairs to an existing one, our skilled professionals are committed to completing projects according to standards.

Maximizing Efficiency: Bulk Liquid Storage Solution Guide

Maximizing Efficiency: Bulk Liquid Storage Solution Guide

Fueling various industries, bulk liquid storage plays a crucial role in making sure large amounts of liquids are safely and systematically kept. Whether it’s petroleum, chemicals, or ingredients for food and beverages, the capability to store liquids in large quantities is key to keeping supply chains and business operations smoothly running.

An efficient bulk liquid storage strategy not only preserves the quality of the stored materials but also optimizes business workflow and resources.

Popular Bulk Liquid Storage Solutions

Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs)

Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs) are a staple in numerous industries for storing a vast array of bulk liquids such as oil, chemicals, and water. These tanks are easily accessible for maintenance and are typically less expensive to construct compared to their underground counterparts. The common applications of ASTs include oil refineries, industrial plants, and agricultural storage — essentially any scenario where quick access to the stored liquid is a priority.

There are multiple types of ASTs tailored to meet specific needs: Vertical cylinders are the most common shape, providing efficient storage capacity with a minimal footprint. Horizontal tanks can be suitable when height restrictions apply or when ease of access and distribution play pivotal roles in operations. Each type of AST has its set of features that cater to a variety of storage requirements and space constraints.

  • ASTs: Accessible, cost-effective, variety of types for different applications

Materials Used in Bulk Liquid Storage Containers

Steel Tanks

Steel tanks are widely known for their robustness and longevity. They are typically the go-to option for bulk liquid storage because of their ability to withstand harsh conditions and resist corrosion, particularly when coated or treated. These tanks can handle a vast range of temperatures and liquids, making them versatile choices for industrial purposes.

One of the primary advantages of steel tanks is their strength, which ensures safety and provides longevity. When considering steel tanks, it’s imperative to account for their weight, as they often require solid foundations due to their heavy nature. Furthermore, steel tanks can be more costly up-front, but their durability often translates into long-term savings.

Types of Liquids Stored in Bulk Liquid Storage

Bulk liquid storage facilities play an integral role in our modern industrial landscape, accommodating a vast array of liquid products. Understanding the variety of liquids stored and the specific considerations for each is essential for maintaining safety and efficiency in these operations.

Petroleum Products

Petroleum products like fuels and oils, constitute a significant portion of substances stored in bulk liquid storage facilities. Efficient storage of these energy-dense liquids enables consistent supply for transportation, heating, and industrial activities.

  • Challenges and considerations for petroleum storage include maintaining structural integrity, controlling emissions, preventing contamination, and adhering to stringent regulatory standards.

Chemicals

From industrial solvents to household cleaners, chemicals of various natures are stored in bulk quantities, serving a myriad of applications across different industries. These chemicals may range from innocuous to highly hazardous, requiring specialized containment solutions.

  • Compatibility with storage materials and the chemical’s reactivity, corrosivity, and volatility are among the crucial material considerations when storing these substances.

Water

Water may seem simple, yet it’s one of the most critical resources stored in bulk. It supports municipal supply systems, agricultural activities, and industrial processes. Water storage facilities ensure a reliable resource for consumption and emergency preparedness, such as fire suppression reserves.

  • Storage options cover a broad spectrum, from ground-level tanks to elevated towers, each with unique features that address different water storage solutions.

Ensuring Safety and Efficiency: Best Practices in Bulk Liquid Storage

Successfully managing bulk liquid storage requires diligent adherence to certain best practices. These practices are designed to maintain safety, comply with regulations, and ensure product integrity. By following these guidelines, organizations can reduce risks and optimize their bulk liquid storage operations.

Regular Inspection and Maintenance

  • Establishing routine inspection schedules to ensure that all storage containers and associated equipment are in good condition and functioning properly. This proactive approach can help detect issues before they lead to larger problems.
  • Identifying and addressing potential issues proactively to reduce the chance of leaks, spills, or equipment failures, which are not only hazardous but can also be costly.

Environmental Compliance

  • Ensuring adherence to environmental regulations is crucial for both legal and ethical operations. Companies must stay informed about the latest laws and adjust their practices accordingly.
  • Implementing spill prevention and response plans is essential for minimizing the environmental impact of accidental releases. Preparation and proper training can significantly mitigate potential damage.

Material Compatibility

  • Understanding the compatibility of materials with stored liquids to prevent adverse reactions is non-negotiable. Storing liquids in inappropriate containers can lead to contamination or degradation of the product.
  • Avoiding cross-contamination and corrosion risks is crucial for maintaining the liquid’s purity and the storage containers’ longevity. Selection of the right materials and container linings is key to prevention.

Emergency Preparedness

  • Developing and practicing emergency response plans ensures all personnel know exactly what to do in the case of an incident, reducing response times and potentially mitigating harm.
  • Training personnel on proper procedures during emergencies is essential. Knowledgeable and prepared staff are the front line of defense against escalating situations into full-fledged crises.

Ensuring Compliance: Navigating Standards and Regulations for Bulk Liquid Storage

Effective management of bulk liquid storage is not just about capacity and design—it is also fundamentally rooted in adhering to stringent industry standards and regulations. Establishing compliance ensures that storage facilities operate safely, sustainably, and within the legal requirements. 

The framework for assessing bulk liquid storage integrity is supported by various industry standards. Notable among these are the American Petroleum Institute (API) benchmarks such as API 650 and API 653, which detail the requirements for the design, construction, and maintenance of storage tanks.

Environmental and Safety Regulations

Protecting the environment and ensuring the safety of personnel and surrounding communities are top priorities in bulk liquid storage operations. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) outlines regulations that focus on preventing, preparing for, and responding to chemical accidents. Similarly, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) prescribes standards to safeguard worker health and safety, including those working with or near bulk liquid storage facilities.

Compliance Requirements

Tanks designed for bulk liquid storage must meet specific compliance requirements. These entail rigorous processes for tank fabrication, guided by material considerations and structural integrity demands. Once installed, tanks must undergo regular inspections and maintenance. Furthermore, each facility must ensure adherence to local, state, and federal regulations, with documentation to prove that tanks were not only designed and constructed correctly but are also routinely maintained and inspected for ongoing integrity and security.

  • API 650: Welded Tanks for Oil Storage – this standard provides guidelines for the design and construction of large, welded storage tanks.
  • API 653: Tank Inspection, Repair, Alteration, and Reconstruction – this standard covers the inspection and maintenance necessary to keep the tanks within operational safety guidelines.
  • EPA: Environmental requirements that govern spill prevention controls and countermeasure plan mandates.
  • OSHA: Regulations ensuring worker safety around hazardous storage systems and in potentially hazardous workplaces.

Ultimately, staying informed and compliant with these diverse regulations ensures the ongoing success and safety of bulk liquid storage operations. It fortifies the trust of stakeholders, protects the environment, and guarantees that handling and storage processes meet the highest industry standards.

How PALA Can Help With AST Fabrication and Repair

PALA’s aboveground tank fabrication and maintenance experience includes over 350 welding procedures covering various metals such as stainless, duplex, Hastelloy, Monel, Inconel, and more.  

When it comes to managing bulk liquid storage, the expertise and reliability of your service provider can make a significant difference. PALA brings both to the table with its proven experience in the fabrication and repair of alloy Aboveground Storage Tanks (AST). 

We are renowned for our extensive knowledge and long-standing experience in AST fabrication and repair. Our team of skilled professionals is dedicated to providing top-notch solutions designed to meet the specific needs of bulk liquid storage. Whether you are looking to build a new tank or require expert repair services, PALA’s qualifications ensure that your storage infrastructure is constructed and maintained to the highest standards:

  • Comprehensive project management from initial design to final inspection
  • Use of superior materials and cutting-edge construction techniques
  • Proactive maintenance programs to maximize tank lifespan and efficiency

Securing Your Business’s Future with Reliable Bulk Liquid Storage Solutions

Choosing the right materials and following stringent standards ensures not only the safety and purity of your liquids but also the integrity of your entire operation. Adherence to regulations and best practices is paramount in maintaining industrial safety and environmental compliance. Remember, the quality of your storage solution can significantly impact the quality of the liquid being stored and, consequently, your reputation. We encourage businesses to recognize the value in partnering with a trusted provider like PALA. Our expertise in AST fabrication and repair is instrumental in developing storage solutions that are both efficient and compliant with current standards.

Let PALA’s demonstrated experience enhance your facility with optimized bulk liquid storage solutions. Don’t hesitate to reach out and explore how PALA can help secure the future of your business’s liquid storage needs.

A Guide to Aluminum Dome Roofs for Aboveground Storage Tanks

A Guide to Aluminum Dome Roofs for Aboveground Storage Tanks

Aluminum dome roofs are a unique roof style and have a variety of benefits for aboveground storage tank applications. What are these space-age-looking structures, and why are they used for tanks? To answer those questions (and a few more) here’s our guide to aluminum dome roofs for storage tanks.

What Are Aluminum Dome Roofs?

Aluminum dome roofs, also known as aluminum geodesic dome roofs or ADRs, are lightweight, curved roofs that are composed of numerous panels connected along geodesic lines. A geodesic line is the shortest line between two points on a curved surface. Geodesic structures use geodesic lines to create curved, domed structures from small, geometric panels that are connected along those geodesic lines. 

How Are Aluminum Dome Roofs Installed?

Geodesic aluminum dome roofs can be installed in a few different ways, depending on the needs of the application. These roofs can be installed inside the tank, starting on the tank floor. This is done by constructing the dome inside of the tank and is most often seen in use cases where space external to the tank is limited.

For other applications with more space, ADRs may be prefabricated and lowered over existing storage tanks. Some of these will be like other tank roof styles, where the roof sits atop the tank walls and is secured to the tank. Other instances will involve an ADR that is significantly larger than the tank it covers, and it will be secured to the ground, covering the entirety of the tank.

Aluminum dome roofs can be attached by two primary methods: batten or lapped. 

  • The batten method involves using batten bars to clamp the raw edges of the roof into place. These bars are sealed (often with silicone strips), which prevents slipping or disengagement. 
  • Lapped roofs are similar to traditional asphalt shingle roofs seen in residential construction; the aluminum panels of the roof are overlapped downward and fastened with screws. This method requires no caulk or sealants but is still effective at keeping out the elements.

What Applications Use Aluminum Dome Roofs?

In the industrial sector, storage tank ADRs are commonly used for containing potable water, fuel, wastewater, or sludge, and are used in the municipal and civil, oil and gas, and manufacturing sectors.

What Are the Benefits of Aluminum Dome Roofs?

Aluminum dome roofs have a bevy of benefits for use with aboveground storage tanks, due to their unique design properties and the performance characteristics of the aluminum and aluminum alloys of which they’re comprised. These storage tank roofs are:

  • Lightweight
  • Strong because, unlike other roof designs, geodesic domes increase in strength proportionally to their size
  • Prefabricated
  • Low maintenance
  • Easily installed via crane, reducing construction time and cost

Additionally, aluminum dome roofs: 

  • Deflect and resist strong winds and hurricanes
  • Shed rain and snow, preventing pooling and cave-ins that can occur with flat roof designs
  • Reduce leakage of gas and other chemical compounds by reducing emissions by 80%–90% 
  • Resist rust and corrosion
  • Resist fire

Contact PALA — Leader in Aboveground Storage Tank Fabrication & Repair

If you’re interested in how geodesic aluminum dome roofs could work for your storage tank application, you’ve come to the right place. PALA Interstate is your turnkey source for all things aboveground storage tanks, from fabrication and installation to inspection and maintenance. Get in touch to start the conversation about your ADR and storage tank needs today.

What is a Tank Farm?

What is a Tank Farm?

You may have seen one, on a lonely stretch of railroad just outside an oil refinery, or planted in the middle of seemingly endless fields of corn and soybeans. Maybe you caught a glimpse from above, outside an airplane window: rows and rows of giant tanks. 

What is that place? It’s a tank farm. They’re a crucial component of modern life and industry, storing the substances necessary to transportation and production. Below, we explain what a tank farm is, some common applications of tank farms, and the safety concerns and practices that attend them. 

Definition of a Tank Farm

Simply put, a tank farm is a site containing many aboveground storage tanks (ASTs), used primarily for the bulk storage of chemicals and fluids, like water, oil, or even jet fuel. They are also used for substances like the acids used in many manufacturing processes. In the oil and gas industry, tank farms may be referred to as oil terminals or oil depots.

Tank farms generally consist of a series of storage tanks, usually ASTs, and gantries, structures used to discharge substances for transport. Gantries are often bridge-like structures that allow for discharge of the substance into shipping vessels like barges or tanker trucks.

definition of a tank farm

What Are Some Common Uses for Tank Farms?

Tank farms are most commonly associated with oil and gas, as these are flammable, hazardous substances that are stored as liquids and are used throughout the country (and the world) for fuel for a variety of applications. Tank farms are often located at the source of extraction for fuel oils or at ends of pipelines.

Propane and other fuels are also commonly stored at tank farms. Locations such as airports or space launch bases may have their own tank farms for fuel storage.

Thorough Safety Training and Culture

It’s a common saying in construction and industry that a process is only as safe as the least safe person involved, and it’s true. Fostering a safety culture, with recurrent safety training and employees who are committed to safe working practices, is crucial to keeping people, nature, and the company’s bottom line healthy and safe on a tank farm.

Get Safe Aboveground Storage Tank Fabrication & Installation from PALA

If your application requires a tank farm, PALA Interstate has the aboveground storage tank and tank services you need. We offer pressure vessel and AST fabrication, along with inspection, maintenance, and  3D tank laser scanning services. Let us be your one-stop tank farm shop — get in touch today to discuss your aboveground storage tank needs.

Your Start-to-Finish Guide to the Aboveground Storage Tank Fabrication Process

Your Start-to-Finish Guide to the Aboveground Storage Tank Fabrication Process

If you work in the energy, agriculture, mining, water treatment, or industrial manufacturing fields, you’re well-acquainted with aboveground storage tanks (ASTs), as they are essential to your operations, for various storage and containment needs. ASTs hold fuel, water, fertilizer, food products, and more. 

How Are Aboveground Storage Tanks Fabricated? 

How are these important pieces of infrastructure constructed? Here’s what goes into the fabrication of an aboveground storage tank, from the beginning to the end of the process.

1. Design and Engineering

Storage tank engineering takes into account the unique needs of the application—the material to be contained, the required pressure and temperature, the storage duration, the types of containment needed, etc.—and the regulatory requirements to create a suitable tank design. 

Some Common Tank Designs

  • External floating roof tanks have a cylindrical shell and have a roof that is open, floating atop the fluid stored in it. These tanks are often used for petroleum and oil.

 

  • Domed external floating roof tanks are very similar to typical external floating roof tanks but feature a roof that has a lighter domed structure.

 

  • Internal floating roof tanks have a roof that is affixed to the tank shell, as well as a second, internal roof that floats atop the contained substance. These tanks are beneficial in extreme weather conditions.

 

  • Fixed roof tanks have a domed or cone-shaped roof that is permanently attached to the shell. These are used mainly for water storage.

 

  • Horizontal tanks are generally smaller and more portable than vertical ASTs and are designed to resist seepage.

 

  • Pressure vessels are designed to contain pressurized substances and contain specialized pressure equipment such as vapor reservoirs.

 

  • Variable vapor space tanks are spherical pressure vessels designed to maintain structural integrity under extremely high pressures. 

2. Foundation

Aboveground storage tank foundations are crucial for ensuring the optimal performance of the tanks and preventing containment issues. The right foundation for a tank depends on factors such as the soil condition, environmental conditions, size of the tank, tank application, and containment needs. Some AST foundation types include:

  • Concrete slab
  • Pile-supported
  • Concrete ring wall
  • Crushed stone ring wall
  • Wick drains with surcharging
  • Stone columns
  • Compacted soil 

3. Fabrication

Aboveground storage tanks are generally fabricated in fabrication shops, workspaces designed especially to meet the space requirements of fabricating large metal components for tanks. Such a space will have several acres of laydown space, as well as heavy equipment like cranes and welders. Here, skilled technicians take the specifications from the design engineers and translate them into the components of the AST.

The material a storage tank is fabricated from is dependent on several factors, including the application, tank environment, and project budget. Some common tank materials include:

  • Various grades of stainless steel
  • Various grades of carbon steel
  • Duplex stainless 

4. Installation

Once an aboveground storage tank is fabricated and the site is prepared, it’s time for installation. This can be as simple as unloading the fully assembled AST onto the prepared foundation on the site (if the tank is small enough); it can also mean delivery of the tank components to the site, to be assembled on-location by an experienced installation crew (large ASTs).

5. Evaluation and Certification

Once a tank has been installed, it must be evaluated and certified before it can be put into use. Due to the nature of many substances stored in ASTs, which can be hazards to environmental or human health and are often valuable substances, critical to the operations of an organization, ensuring that the vessel is fit for service and meets all applicable standards and regulations is necessary before it can be put into service.

What Codes and Standards Apply to Aboveground Storage Tank Fabrication? 

The primary standards that apply to AST fabrication are API 620 and API 650. API 650 pertains to tanks (of varying sizes) designed for withstanding higher temperatures at minimal pressure, and API 620 pertains to large, lower-temperature, pressurized storage tanks. 

Other codes and regulations, such as the NBIC and ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code inform the inspection, maintenance, and repairs of aboveground storage tanks and pressure vessels.

Contact PALA for Aboveground Storage Tank Fabrication 

PALA Interstate has tank fabrication facilities in Baton Rouge and Hammond, Louisiana, that can accommodate your storage tank fabrication needs. We work with a variety of alloys, from stainless steel and titanium to Iconel and Haynes alloys, and we can fabricate storage tanks to meet API 650 and 620 standards. 

If you have aboveground tanks in need of inspection, maintenance, or repair, PALA is also your source. We offer comprehensive tank maintenance programs, in-shop and on-site repair services, and even 3D Laser Scanning for tank analysis and inspection.

Important Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations to Understand

Important Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations to Understand

Aboveground storage tanks are designed to hold a variety of liquid or gaseous substances in bulk quantities, many of which are harmful to people, facilities, and/or ecosystems. To ensure safety for all, multiple agencies have established regulations specific to the design, build, and operation of aboveground storage tanks. 

Below, we’ll take a look at the most important aboveground storage tank regulations to understand. 

Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations — An Overview

There are hundreds of regulations out there related to aboveground storage tanks, about anything from design and build to inspection and maintenance. Since these structures often store hazardous materials (and lots of them), various agencies have joined the discussion and implemented guidelines around their use. 

Here’s a list of some of the most prominent organizations that have created their own set of aboveground storage tank regulations. You can click on each to jump to their description in this article. 

Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations by the EPA

If your facility has aboveground storage tanks that hold an oil of any kind, it may be subject to the EPA’s Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) regulation: 40 CFR Part 112. While this regulation doesn’t specifically mention the term “aboveground storage tank,” it includes that term under the broader category of bulk storage containers. 

SPCC helps prevent a discharge of oil from running into navigable waters or shorelines. It also ensures that every aboveground storage tank facility has a comprehensive response plan that prepares them in case of a spill emergency. 

Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations by Local Governments

Aside from regulations established by the federal government (EPA), your local government and authorizing agencies may also have their own set of standards to follow. These will likely match federal regulations to an extent, but also have some more standards specific to the area and environment in which your facility is located. 

This way, if your local environment is at risk of any specific threats or challenges, you and the people around you can be assured that you’re aware of them and have prepared for them properly. 

Aboveground Storage Tank Regulations by Industry-Specific Agencies

There are a few industry-specific agencies that have created their own aboveground storage tank regulations based on their experience and expertise. 

American Petroleum Institute (API)

API standards are specific to aboveground storage tanks that hold oil. There are three that are most applicable: 

  • API 620: tanks under pressure that are field-erected or repaired
  • API 650: new tank construction
  • API 653: tank repairs

Wondering how API 620 and API 650 differ, and which may be best suited for your application? Read this blog

American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)

ASME’s standards regulate the design, fabrication, and repair of aboveground storage tanks. Most importantly, they look closely at shop-fabricated tanks to ensure manufacturing processes and protocols are on track with best practices. This helps to ensure high-quality results, long-lasting solutions, and safety for all involved.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)

The NFPA regulates any aboveground storage tanks holding flammable liquids. They require that tanks are manufactured in compliance with the following standards: 

  • UL 142: tanks that store non-corrosive, stable flammable and combustible liquids with a specific gravity no greater than 1.0.
  • UL 2085: tanks that must meet additional, specific design requirements to ensure a two-hour fire resistance and a secondary containment solution.

How Do I Know Which Regulations Apply to My Facility? 

After reading through those aboveground storage tank regulations, you might wonder if they all apply to your facility or not. There are a few ways to find out. 

First, you could conduct your own research by reading articles online, buying standards books, etc. This might also include asking colleagues that may have a better understanding of technical regulations. 

Or, possibly a better option is to talk to an aboveground storage tank manufacturer in your area. They’ll be up to date on all the regulations, and how they’d apply to your location and project. Then, they can help you complete the project by designing, building, and maintaining an aboveground storage tank solution ideal for your application. 

For Guaranteed Quality & Compliance, Choose PALA. 

To ensure the safety of your people, facility, and environment, you must comply with the aboveground storage tank regulations in this article. At PALA, we can help you design, fabricate, and install an aboveground storage tank solution that complies, then maintain it, so it stays that way. For more information, don’t hesitate to give our team a call or contact us online.