What You Should Know About Regulations for Louisiana Aboveground Storage Tanks

If you own or plan to install aboveground storage tanks (AST’s), you need to be aware of regulations in place which govern how they are to be installed and maintained. Louisiana doesn’t have any state regulations, but it follows the federal guidelines under 40 CFR 112.

AST’s are not named specifically in the federal regulations, but they are included in bulk storage containers. This broad definition may also incorporate any container aboveground, buried, partially buried or bunkered. The encompassing definition is they are used to store oil prior to use, during use or prior to further distribution.

The regulations define the rules for design, management and testing of these containers.

Regulations for the Design of AST’s

The material used to develop the containers must be compatible with the substance being stored. There must be a second way to contain the contents of the largest container in case of a leak.

Precautions must be taken to prevent or provide notification of a leak. This may include high-level alarms cutoff devices to stop the flow of the substance and a fast response system to determine the level of the liquids in the containers.

Management and Testing of AST’s

The federal regulations create guidelines on controlling leakage and drainage. Records must be kept of events and supervision is necessary for drainage.

Testing of the AST’s must be made on a regular schedule and anytime repairs are made to the materials. Visual inspections can’t be the only means of inspection. It must be combined with another method, such as ultrasonic testing, hydrostatic testing, or another option for testing. All records must be maintained. Portable AST’s must be located where they won’t cause a discharge and have a second option for containment.

Along with petroleum oils, this regulation also includes animal and fish fats or oils, vegetable oils, and other oils. Besides the federal regulations, Louisiana also follows the National Fire Prevention Association Code 30 and Code 30A. It also enforces NFPA 70. Before the owner can construct an AST, they must provide site plans for the tank to the state fire marshal. If the fire marshal approves the plans, they will issue a certificate of completion and send a copy to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality.

In addition to federal rules, each county and city may have their own requirements. These requirements must be at least as strict as the federal laws. However, they may be more stringent, which is why it’s important to check with local government if you have any questions.