What standards are required to inspect aboveground containers?

Industry standards, such as API 653 and STI SP001 contain requirements to inspect aboveground containers. This standard focuses primarily on inspection of welded, metal, shop-fabricated and small field-erected tanks.

What inspection and testing requirements apply to bulk storage containers?

Some inspection and testing provisions apply to bulk storage containers at onshore facilities (other than production facilities). Inspection and/or testing requirements also apply to other components of a facility that might cause a discharge (such as vehicle drains, foundations, or other equipment or devices).

How long should a container be inspected?

You must retain testing and inspection records for 3 years. EPA recommends that formal test records or reports be retained for the life of the container. Integrity testing is required for all aboveground bulk storage containers located at onshore facilities (except oil production facilities).

Should bulk oil storage containers be inspected?

The example indicated that visual inspection plus certain additional actions to ensure the containment and detection of leaks may be appropriate for bulk oil storage containers with a capacity up to 30,000 gallons.

What are oil storage requirements?

The requirements are generally aimed at preventing discharges of oil caused by leaks, brittle fracture, or other forms of container failure by ensuring that containers used to store oil have the necessary physical integrity for continued oil storage.

Do you need integrity testing for a bulk storage container?

Integrity testing is required for all aboveground bulk storage containers located at onshore facilities (except oil production facilities). Integrity testing is necessary to determine if the container (e.g. a tank) is suitable for continued use until the next formal inspection.