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Automatic Tank Gauging Systems
The Responsibilities and Requirements for Owners and Operators of Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) as cited in 40 CFR Part 280 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
An automatic tank gauging system (ATG) not only provides inventory records, but when properly used, ATG also satisfies the federal leak detection requirements. Tank owners must know the capabilities of ATG, be able to interpret the test results and understand how to calibrate the ATG system.
The following advice exemplifies best business practices and federal regulatory requirements for operating your ATG systems.
Operation and Maintenance
- Totally familiarize yourself with the instructions for operating and maintaining your ATG system.
- Review your operator’s manual on a regular basis.
- Make sure that the installer of your ATG system thoroughly explains how your system operates.
- Maintain and calibrate your ATG system in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Have the ATG programmed to work with the particular tank system installed.
- Program the ATG to test for leaks at least once a month, when the tank is full, and the leak detection test on the printout must read pass or fail.
- For systems that monitor sumps and interstitial spaces, the owners/operators must inspect their systems in the manner prescribed by the manufacturer to ensure that they are functioning properly and maintain records proving that they have conducted these inspections.
- Perform tests frequently – the more frequently you test your system, the greater the likelihood you will detect leaks as quickly as possible.
- Never disconnected an ATG system; they are designed for continuous operation.
- Never ignore an alarm, investigate all warnings.
Record Keeping Requirements
Regulatory officials require the following records be readily available for inspection:
Keep for at least one year:
- Monthly ATG test results
- Documentation of all calibration, maintenance and repair work
Keep for at least five years:
- Any written performance claim for your ATG system (this will usually be an evaluation document signed by a third-party evaluator showing how a sample ATGs performed under test conditions.
- Manufacturer-supplied schedules for calibration and maintenance.
- Manufacturer’s performance claims.
- Third-party certification for leak detection equipment.
- Operator’s manual for each piece of equipment.
- Warranty information.
- Schedule showing what the system does and how often.
- List showing what records to keep and for how long.
- Schedule for what maintenance is needed and how often.