In any business, there are those unexpected moments that test your plan and show you in a vivid manner whether you are truly prepared for all eventualities. Recently, near Harrisburg, PA, a heating oil storage tank was struck by lightning. A fire in the tank was quickly contained, but the tank needed to be drained, 300 people were evacuated from the area, and a complete tank inspection was necessary before the tank could be refilled.
The Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan you have, or should have, can give you a complete road map as to what should be done in such a situation. The plan will also list such things as your containment equipment, measures you have taken to prevent spills from reaching the ground or water supplies, and a detailed, regular inspection schedule of tanks and equipment to be sure it all meets regulatory approval. This plan must also be examined and approved by an experienced engineering firm. Without the plan, you may not be prepared to react quickly, and you can be at risk of citations for failure to have a plan.
The majority of citations at bulk storage facilities center on improper or non-existent inspections. Regular inspections must include not only the tank, but also such things as the supports, foundations, and discharge valves. Complete and proper records of each inspection must be kept to satisfy federal and state guidelines. You can also be cited for the lack of proper record keeping. Regular training of your employees in all compliance measures and accurate records of the training are also required.
Keeping up with the compliance regulations can be a full time job that is best left to a qualified professional engineer. Our experienced staff can design a plan for you that meets all regulations or they can analyze your current plan to be sure it is compliant.
Contact us today to be sure you are prepared for any eventuality and reduce your exposure to citations and down time that can compromise safety and profitability.