Operation and Maintenance For Pressurized Piping

Tips From

Frank the Tank

Operation and Maintenance For

Pressurized Piping

The most frequent Notice of Violations (NOV) issued by BUSTR inspectors is for failure to conduct proper leak detection for piping. These include failure to annually test the operation of the piping leak detector and failure to conduct an annual line tightness test or monthly monitoring for pressure piping. By following the tips offered in the table below, you can ensure that you are properly conducting leak detection for piping.

OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE FOR PRESSURIZED PIPING

If you have a line leak detector such as an Automatic Shut-Off Device, Automatic Flow Restrictor, or a Continuous High Level Audio or Visual Alarm. They may be either mechanical or electrical.

√

Make sure you annually test your device and confirm it is working per manufacturer’s requirements.

Have the unit serviced (suggest annually)

Do not ignore or disconnect the alarm

AND YOU MUST

If you:	√	Make sure you:
Annually Conduct a Line Tightness Test		Hire a UST tank tightness tester and do a line tightness test. Results from an electronic line leak detector may be used if it can detect .1 gallons per hour leak rate. Keep a record of the results
	OR
Perform Monthly Monitoring		Monitor your vapor, groundwater wells, or interstitial (double walled) piping every 30 days Monthly SIR may not be used in lieu of tightness testing Keep a record of the results

What to do if your line leak detection alarm goes off?

Treat the event as if you have had a release of product.

Do not ignore and do not shut off the alarm without investigating the system.

Check your pipe sump for the presence of petroleum product.

Shut down the system until you can determine if a release actually occurred.

Follow spill response and reporting requirements if you suspect a release.

Compliance with UST regulations is a pre-requisite for remaining eligible for Financial Assurance Fund coverage and claim reimbursement.