How often do I need to test my underground and aboveground storage tanks?

Generally, fuel tanks should be inspected monthly by a certified operator and the released detection equipment should be tested by a third party annually according to Chapter 62-761, F.A.C. for Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) and Chapter 62-762, F.A.C.  for Aboveground Storage Tanks (ASTs).

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The DEP requires the following components to be inspected to ensure proper operation and to prevent leaks or spills of regulated products:

 

Release Detection – Electronic Devices

Electronic release detection devices shall be inspected for proper operation every month. A record or summary of the alarm history, sensor status, and testing results shall be printed from the device and kept for 3 years. If the device does not have the print capability, then a manual log must be maintained.

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Release Detection – Emergency Generators

Release detection is now required for underground storage tank systems that store the fuel for use by emergency power generators.

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Annual Operability Testing – Release Detection Devices & Overfill Protection Equipment

All release detection devices must be tested for operability annually at intervals not exceeding 12 months to ensure proper operation and be registered with the Department.

 

Effective October 13, 2019, owners and operators must designate a primary overfill device. Secondary, overfill devices cannot interfere with the proper operation of the designated primary device. The designated primary overfill device must be registered with the FDEP and perform annual operability testing at intervals not exceeding 12 months.

 

Periodic Integrity Testing

Periodic testing of storage tank system components shall occur according to the following schedule:

a. Single-walled spill containment systems – once a year, not to exceed 12 months.

b. Piping sumps, dispenser sumps, double-walled spill containment systems - every three years, not to exceed 36 months.

c. Piping and dispenser sumps over the surface waters of the state shall be tested every three years thereafter, not to exceed 36 months.

 

Repairs, Operation and Maintenance

Storage tank system equipment shall be maintained in sound operational condition to reduce the likelihood of releases and incidents. Corrosion of metal components must be minimized by periodic maintenance. Water in excess of one inch in depth or any regulated substances collected in secondary containment shall be removed within 72 hours of discovery and properly disposed. 

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What equipment should be inspected as part of the visual AST (Above-ground Storage Tank) Site Inspection?

 

•         Tank Man Ways

 

•         Tank Coating Integrity

 

•         Tank Interstitial

 

•         National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Signage

 

•         Primary & Secondary Vents

 

•         Remote Fill with Valves

 

•         Overfill Prevention

 

•         Piping Integrity

 

•         Fuel Dispenser Integrity

 

•         Belts, Meter Calibration

 

•         Registers, Hose Retractor

 

•         Dispenser Hose

 

•         Hose Break-A-Way

 

•         Filter Integrity

 

•         Swivel Integrity

 

•         Nozzle Integrity

 

•         Submersible Pump Condition

 

•         Leak Detector Tested

 

•         Dispenser Sump Integrity

 

•         Conduit and Wiring Integrity

 

•         Emergency Shut-Off

 

•         Tank Management System

 

•         Fire Extinguisher

 

•         Gauges

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How do I document the Tank Inspections and Certification?

Upon completion of inspection, the contractor or certified operator must provide a detailed report with the following:

• Detailed information on the condition of the tank, accessories, and appurtenances.

 

• Detailed information concerning required and recommended repairs and renovations.

 

• Drawings detailing the inspection information and color pictures illustrating the inspection findings.

 

• Comparison and analysis of the tank’s current condition with the original tank fabrication conditions.