AST systems continue to be important for commercial, emergency generator, agricultural and other similar applications. Especially in cases where there is room for them to be installed. When real estate is sparse, owners often must still rely on the more heavily regulated USTs. The Petroleum Equipment Institute (PEI) issued a new recommended practice for installing ASTs. PEI/RP200: Installation of Aboveground Storage Systems for Motor Vehicle Fueling, went through its most recent review and finalized the sixth edition of the document in March 2013.
Reading through the recent article in the PEI Journal regarding RP200, here are some excerpts that spell out the biggest changes from their 2008 version:
- Improvements in Fire Safety
- Electronic gauges for all kinds of tanks
- Better structural integrity of tanks
- Technical updates to conform with UL 142 on tank capacity, length and diameter
- Steel Tank Institute performance references updated to new STI standards
- Brand new Appendix C: side-by-side comparison of key requirements in NFPA 30A: Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages and the International Fire Code that impact AST installation
PEI recommended practices have tremendous visibility and credibility. People want to be involved because it’s a chance to truly make a difference. TAIT’s Regulatory Affairs Manager, Brian Harmon was very involved in RP1200. We are pleased to support the community and stay abreast of upcoming regulations and recommended practices by participating and responding on issues.
Engineers and owners want a superior product and are willing to spend extra money for double wall aboveground tanks and double wall piping—again, even when they don’t have to. It shows that the industry is taking pollution and safety seriously—moving from “let’s get this done” to “let’s make sure we do this right.” And that’s a good thing. – Kirk Mercer, CEO of R.W. Mercer Company in Jackson, Mich., chairman of PEI’s Aboveground Tank Installation Committee, has been involved since the beginning – 1992.
If you have any questions regarding installing ASTs, please contact us. We design, install, repair, test, inspect and remove both Aboveground and Belowground Storage Tanks across the nation. We are happy to help you consider your options and discuss individual situations. Contact us Today for more information.