EPA Proposes to Delay Compliance with SPCC Rule Changes

Now you have time to be in compliance with the new rules, particularly the integrity testing
requirement.

Storage Tanks under the SPCC Rules, 40 CFR 112.8, requires integrity testing.
The compliance date is November 10, 2010, but EPA has proposed a one year extension to 2011.

Steel Tank Institute wrote the standard for testing shop-fabricated tanks.  EI’s STI-Certified tank inspectors can help you with your storage tank inspection and testing compliance

EI’s SPCC experts can also answer any other SPCC questions or provide the required services to
ensure your compliance with the rules.

The Federal Government first developed rules in 1974 regulating above ground oil storage tanks.  The Exxon Valdez accident prompted the United States Congress to pass the Oil Pollution Control Act of 1990 . Following the Ashland oil spill in Floreffe, Pennsylvania, where 750,000 gallons of oil discharged into the Monongahela River, the EPA, not waiting for congress, began making significant changes to the “Spill Prevention, Control and Counter-Measure (SPCC)
Rule."

The changes to the SPCC Rule, which will go into effect on November 10, 2011 (proposed), include the following:

• Broadening of the definition of "oil."
• Including oil-filled operational equipment, e.g., transformers, lube systems.
• Including requirements for loading/unloading areas and racks.
• Clarification on secondary containment requirements.
• Allowing exemptions for “Qualified Facilities.”
• Required formal inspections and testing as prescribed by API, STI, or others.

EI's SPCC Services

EI has been providing SPCC and related services for 20 years and is eminently qualified in this area.  Our specialists have written papers, presented at conferences, and participated in national seminars on the topic.  We have provided services to utilities, municipalities, major industries, and commercial property owners. 

With that, EI's professionals have the background and experience to provide any service associated with SPCC Rule compliance, including:

• SPCC development
• Facility Response Plan (FRP) development per 40 CFR 112.20
• Compliance reviews
• Tank Inspections per the STI standard
• Expert consultation and opinions