All impressed current and sacrificial anode cathodic protection (CP) systems must be tested periodically by qualified corrosion testers to ensure that the systems meet design specifications and are protecting the UST systems from corrosion. These tests must be conducted:

• Within six months of installation.

• At least every three years after the previous test. 

• Within six months following any repair work performed on a cathodically protected UST system, to ensure that the system is operating properly.

Make sure that the professional tester you hire is qualified to perform the test. You will need to have a corrosion expert examine and repair your system if any test indicates that your tanks are not adequately protected.

Note:  You must keep the results of at least the last two tests on file. All repair records must be kept for the remaining operating life of the UST system.

Owners and operators who rely on impressed current CP systems are also responsible for the following requirements:

You are required to inspect your rectifier at least every 60 days to make sure that your CP system is operating within normal limits.

1. This inspection involves reading and recording the voltage and amperage output of the rectifier. You or your employees can perform this inspection and record the data in the rectifier log.
2. You must keep the monitoring records for the last 3 rectifier readings.
3. Impressed current CP systems are both designed and required to operate continuously. Properly operating rectifiers should never be “turned off.”
4. Make sure that your CP professional provides you with the acceptable operating levels of the rectifier so you can compare the readings you take with an acceptable operating level.
5. If your readings are not within acceptable levels, you must contact a CP professional to address the problem.

Enhancing the operation and maintenance of your CP system

To ensure that your CP system is in compliance and working properly, you must understand how to operate your system, what to do when the unit registers a problem, and know who to contact when your system fails to operate properly. You should also have the following information available for reference:

• Names and telephone numbers of the CP designer/installer/tester.
• Manufacturer’s performance claims, system maintenance schedule and requirements.
• Operator’s manual and warranty information.
• For trouble-shooting purposes, corrosion engineers suggest that all test and monitoring records be retained for the operating life of the CP system. When in doubt as to what to do with records, keep them!

Click here for a 60-Day Inspection Form.
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