The oil and gas business is an ever-changing business due to the economy's reliance on hydrocarbons, and their inherent danger and safety risk. The United States Government has legislated Title 40 to be enforced by the Environmental Protection Agency. Title 40 has many rules and regulations for storing, monitoring, and measuring tanks that hold petroleum. Some of these regulations can be found in the link below.

Summary of Federal Requirements  

Many tank owners install a gauge that can be read from outside of the tank, and at eye level so anyone can see the tank level at any time. This method also requires the person to record the level information at the tank battery. This method is safer than using a stick or a tape, but also not very reliable.

Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) used for the store of petroleum products is regulated primarily under 40 CFR 112. A bulk storage container is 55 gal. or greater and may be aboveground, partially buried, bunkered, or completely buried."

Each bulk storage container installation must be engineered or updated in accordance with good engineering practice to avoid discharges, including at least one of the following devices:

• High liquid level alarms with an audible or visual signal at a constantly attended operation or surveillance station (NOTE: In smaller facilities an audible air vent may suffice.)
• High liquid level pump cutoff devices set to stop flow at a predetermined container content level.
• Direct audible or code signal communication between the container gauge and the pumping station.
• A fast response system for determining the liquid level of each bulk storage container such as digital computers, telepulse, or direct vision gauges (NOTE: If you use this alternative, a person must be present to monitor gauges and the overall filling of bulk storage containers.)

Testing/Monitoring

The facility must combine visual inspection with another testing technique such as hydrostatic testing, radiographic testing, ultrasonic testing, acoustic emissions testing, or another system of non-destructive shell testing. Comparison records must be kept and the container's supports and foundations also inspected. Liquid level sensing devices must be regularly tested to ensure proper operation.

Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC Plan)

Title 40, Part 112-3 states that every company or facility must have an updated spill prevention, control, and countermeasure plan. The TankWarden System can help tank owners develop a sophisticated approach to developing and implementing a prevention and control plan to satisfy the US Government's requirements. Therefore, the leak detection ability of the TankWarden can reduce the risk exposure to fines, expensive cleanups, and denied prevention plans issued by the EPA.