Techno Bits/Technical Bulletins

Effective December 1, 2000, a new regulation covering Massachusetts aboveground storage tanks with a capacity of 10,000 gallons or greater established requirements for the routine inspection and permitting of above ground storage tanks (ASTs). This regulation applies to the storage of any fluid other than water (including the storage of wastewater). The new regulation requires annual inspection of all applicable ASTs by a professional engineer (P.E.) or by an American Petroleum Institute (API) 653 Certified Inspector. Deadline for the first inspection is June 1, 2001. Owners or operators of applicable ASTs must obtain an annual use permit from the State Fire Marshal. The annual inspection report will be submitted as part of the annual permit application. Owners or operators of applicable ASTs must also perform monthly visual inspections of the external condition of each tank. These monthly inspections must begin in December 2000. Also, beginning in December 2000, owners or operators of applicable ASTs must maintain comprehensive written records including inspections, examinations and tests and history of any repairs, alterations, replacement, and service. These records must be maintained for a period of five years after the closure of each tank. Finally, a permit must be obtained from the State Fire Marshal to perform maintenance (as defined in the regulation) on any existing applicable AST.

Archived - Jan. 24, 2002