Storing and Handling Fuel on the Farm

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2 Introduction Storing and Handling Fuel on the Farm The capacity of diesel and gasoline storage on Alberta farms is at least 250 million litres (55 million gallons). With this large volume of stored fuels, the financial, environmental and public liability risks to farmers are real. This publication provides information to help farmers store and use gasoline and diesel fuel safely. Legal Implications In Alberta, the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act (EPEA) is the legislation that supports and promotes the protection, enhancement and wise use of the environment. This Act provides for large penalties for polluters, including cleanup costs. Farmers are not exempt from the EPEA. No one wants to pollute, but accidents happen. Prosecution under this Act may be avoided if "due diligence", taking all reasonable steps to prevent the commission of an offence, can be shown (EPEA Sec. 215). While due diligence minimizes the chance of mishap, it doesn't diminish the responsibilities of storing and handling fuel. The Alberta Fire Code is the major legislation governing the storage of hazardous products. Although the storage of fuel on farms, for individual farm use, is exempt from the Alberta Fire Code, following the recommendations in this code may help to prove due diligence. For this reason, many of the recommendations in this publication are taken from the Alberta Fire Code. Financial Implications Banks and other lending agencies recognize the risks of farm fuel storage and handling. When using land as security, most lending agencies ask the borrower to complete an environmental assessment questionnaire, which includes specific questions about fuel storage. Environmental concerns may be enough to prevent loan approval. As part of their own due diligence requirements, lenders may perform a physical assessment from time to time to evaluate their ongoing environmental risk. Insurance companies also ask questions about fuel storage and handling to help them assess the risk level associated with issuing insurance. However, you should review your insurance policies (automobile and property) to see whether they cover environmental damage. Some policies may provide some coverage, but many provide none. Practicing due diligence is a major part of protecting your ability to borrow money or obtain insurance. Health Risks Exposure to diesel or gasoline can occur through breathing vapours, swallowing fuel or skin contact. Contact with the skin can cause irritation and dermatitis. Prolonged skin contact with gasoline can lead to chemical burns. Vapours are moderately irritating to the eyes and respiratory passages. Exposure to high vapour concentration can cause headaches, dizziness, nausea and central nervous system depression. Gasoline is a possible cause of cancer. It contains benzene and long-term inhalation of benzene vapours can cause major medical problems. Exhaust from diesel and gasoline engines contains carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. Exposure to high concentrations of either gas is life threatening. In addition, diesel exhaust contains benzene. Minimizing skin contact with fuel by wearing neoprene gloves is the first step in avoiding health problems. Leather or cloth gloves aren't recommended because they become contaminated and prolong exposure to the fuel. Thoroughly wash your hands if they are splashed with fuel. Fumes in a confined space can lead to an explosive air-fuel mixture. Therefore, all fuel transfers should be done outdoors. When operating motors inside a building, vent the exhaust outside. Avoid breathing fuel fumes. If fuel, especially gasoline, is spilled on your clothing, don't go near sources of ignition, including heaters and furnaces you may be tempted to warm up beside. Care should also be taken to slowly remove clothing so as not to create static electricity. Thoroughly wash the splashed area. If skin irritation, nausea, dizziness, headaches, blurred vision, chest pains or other symptoms occur, get medical attention immediately. Exercise extreme care with contaminated clothes by rinsing out all traces of fuel before machine washing or drying. 1

3 While the fuel currently available is lead-free, it must be assumed that old, used tanks have held leaded fuel and are contaminated with lead. For this reason, used fuel tanks shouldn't be used for grain or water storage. Fuel tanks also have the potential to explode if they aren't cleaned properly. Material safety data sheets on gasoline and diesel can be obtained from fuel suppliers. Storage Tank Options The objectives of fuel storage are to maintain fuel quality and minimize losses in a safe manner. There are several onfarm storage options, classified as underground, on-ground and overhead (Figures 1 through 6). Underground tanks are completely buried with only the pumps, vents and fill connections visible. There are two types of on-ground tanks. Vertical, on-ground tanks are usually cylindrical in shape and have their bottoms sitting directly on the ground. Horizontal, onground tanks are cradled close to the ground in a heavy steel frame. An on-ground tank must be equipped with a pump for fuelling vehicles and farm machinery. The third type is overhead tanks. They are supported above the ground on stands and the fuel is gravity fed. A new generation of on-ground tanks is available (Figures 1 and 2). They are built with double walls and equipped with an integral pump system, providing excellent protection against leaks. The double walls provide some thermal insulation value, reducing swings in fuel temperature. Installation is reduced to finding a suitable location, preparing a firm foundation and providing electrical power, using wiring suitable for Class I hazardous locations. (Refer to the Electrical Code.) The fuel can be secured by shutting off the power to the pumps. Collision protection is provided by design in some models while additional protection may be required in others. The biggest drawback is the purchase price. This must be weighed against the advantages to determine if these tanks meet your needs. Figure 1. New generation on-ground vertical Figure 2. New generation on-ground horizontal tank 2

4 Figure 3. Underground tank Figure 4. On-ground vertical tanks with containment dike Figure 5. Horizontal on-ground tank Reducing Risks Fire Fire poses the greatest risk of loss to nearby homes, buildings, equipment and livestock. In addition, there is the loss of the fuel involved. The potential for injury or death is also high. As dangerous and destructive as fuel is in a liquid state, it's even more dangerous as a vapour. Under certain conditions, vapours may explode, spreading fire over a large area (Figure 7). 3

5 Figure 6. Overhead tank Figure 7. The remains of a farm fuel tank after it exploded and flew over 200 feet Every available step to reduce the chance of fire should be taken. If the system has pumps and meters, ensure the wiring is installed and maintained in a manner suitable for Class I hazardous locations. (Contact a qualified electrician or refer to the Alberta Electrical Code.) Clean up minor spills and keep the area free of tall vegetation and debris. This reduces the danger to the fuel tanks in the event of a grass fire. A glass bottle can refract sunlight and ignite dry grass. Ground all above ground tanks. Position tanks safely, and at least 15 meters (50 feet) from all buildings (Figure 8). 4

6 Figure 8. This is an unapproved plastic tank that is installed too close to granaries. Ensure that tank vents discharge vapours away from sources of ignition, such as electric motors, internal combustion engines, yard lights, electrical power lines, electric fences, air conditioning or heating units, garbage burning barrels and road traffic. Keep fuel lines, hoses, valves and nozzles in good repair. Install a fire extinguisher (Type ABC of at least 20 pounds) close to your fuel tanks. Remember to check and maintain the extinguisher regularly. Don't smoke when handling fuels. Turn off engines, electrical appliances and pilot lights while refuelling equipment. Remain in attendance at the site. Be aware of and control any nearby sources of ignition while refuelling. Static electricity is also a form of ignition. Two common causes of static electricity are the movement of grain through an auger and the movement of vehicles or machinery. Any time there is an imbalance in electrical charges between two objects, a spark can occur when they come in contact or close proximity. If the gasoline nozzle is the contact point between the fuel storage tank and a static-charged vehicle or farm machine, a spark may ignite any fuel vapours present. It is recommended that a bonding line be connected between the storage tank and vehicle before starting fill-up (Figure 9). A flexible, copper conductor, 12 gauge or larger is recommended. Don't use gasoline as a cleaning or degreasing agent. Safer products, specifically designed for these jobs, are available. In addition to the fire risk, using gasoline for cleaning exposes the person to the health risks previously described. Figure 9. Bonding line and grounding tank stand. 5

7 Leakage Loss risks due to leakage vary with the type of storage involved. In overhead tanks the largest risk is from upset of the tank and loss of the entire contents. Cleanup costs can be high, especially if the leaked fuel contaminates surface or ground water. In addition, there is always the risk of leaked fuel igniting. Generally, smaller losses can be caused by failure of valves, hoses or nozzles. The greatest risk of loss affecting on-ground and underground tanks is that of an undetected leak in the concealed portion of the system. There is an ongoing loss of fuel, and once the loss is detected, repair and cleanup costs can be very high. The contamination of underground water is an extremely serious problem. There is no practical way to clean up ground water contamination. Vapours from leaked fuel may enter buildings through septic lines or other means, with potentially explosive results. Even if explosive levels are not reached, there is still the health risk of prolonged exposure to fuel vapours. Monitoring for leaks The risk of leakage is minimized by the proper installation and maintenance of fuel storage facilities. The best way to minimize losses through leakage is early detection of the problem. Overhead tanks and the surrounding area should be visually inspected for leaks on a twice-monthly basis. Close the valves on the tank discharges when they aren't in use. This prevents leakage through the hose or nozzle. In underground and on-ground tanks, monitoring the volume of fuel is the first method of leak detection. This is accomplished by maintaining an ongoing inventory control, where deliveries are added, usage is subtracted and the expected volume is compared to the actual volume obtained by dipping the tanks. Fuel dipping is measuring the amount of fuel in a tank with a dipstick or tape. Don't dip tanks immediately after fuel delivery. Allow time for fuel agitation to subside. A fuel inventory control sheet, with an example, is included in the appendix. It's recommended that this procedure be followed each time there is a delivery or fuel is removed from an underground or on-ground storage tank, or at least every two weeks. A two-year running history of these records must be kept and it's recommended they be retained for the life of the tank. If the size of the tank is known, tank charts relating fuel depth to fuel volume are available from tank manufacturers. Any trend of unexplained losses may indicate a leak and should be investigated. If the tank size is unknown, the pumps aren't equipped with meters or some other reason makes it impossible to maintain an ongoing inventory record, use the following procedure. At least twice per month allow the tank to sit unused for 24 hours. Measure the level of fuel at the start and end of the 24 hour period. Compare the measurements for signs of fuel loss. These measurements will be more consistent if done at least 24 hours after a fuel delivery. Visually inspect the above ground part of the system for leaks twice a month. Fuel tanks should be regularly checked for water. Water settles to the bottom of the tank, allowing measurement of the amount of water present. When dipping tanks, smear five to six inches of water paste at the bottom of the dipstick or tape. Water paste is available from petroleum equipment suppliers. If water is present, the paste will change colour, from yellow to red. Water invades tanks through leakage or condensation. If there is a general increase in water in the tank after a rainfall or if the level of water at the bottom of an underground tank exceeds 50 mm (2 inches), this may indicate that your tank or fuel line is leaking. Spillage Spillage usually occurs because of operator negligence when filling equipment or fuel storage tanks. Spills can also occur when the fuel in a tank heats and expands, and is forced through the vent cap. Therefore, above ground tanks shouldn't be filled to more than 90 per cent of their capacity. Losses due to spillage are usually confined to the cost of the fuel spilled and surface cleanup. Care must be taken to prevent spilled fuels from catching on fire. Ignition can easily occur when fuel overflows a vehicle's tank and comes in contact with a hot exhaust system. Cleanup costs and losses due to leaks and spills can be reduced by proper siting and installation of storage tanks. Protecting all pumps, lines and tanks from collision damage can also prevent large spills. Spills can be prevented. Don't leave refuelling procedures unattended. If your tanks are equipped with pumps, use automatic shut off nozzles. Make sure that all nozzles are in good repair. When filling small containers, ensure that they are supported in an upright position so they don't fall over. Spills may also occur when fuel is delivered to your storage tanks. The fuel industry operates under strict regulations and operators are aware of the importance of not spilling fuel. If you have concerns, talk to your supplier. After all, not only is there a mess to clean up, but you may also be paying for the spilled product. 6

8 Theft Theft is a frustrating and difficult situation to deal with. Theft of fuel can vary from a nuisance factor to a substantial financial cost. Being an easy target for fuel theft can lead to further theft and vandalism on the farm, and larger losses. Keep track of fuel purchases and usage to know if there is an unexplained disappearance. Figure 10. This hose features a cam lock fitting that allows the hose to be quickly removed when not in use. Theft prevention is an ongoing concern. Locate your tanks near the back of your yard, away from buildings, but where they are visible. Keep the area around the pumps or tanks clear of equipment and other obstructions. Don't give thieves cover. Lighting the area may help and will facilitate fuelling at night. Close and lock the valves on all on-ground and overhead tank outlets when they aren't in use. Lock fuel caps on underground tanks. Turn off the power to pumps. At one site where theft was a large problem, hoses were fitted with cam lock fittings, and removed when not in use (Figure 10). As well as locking valves, some farmers have built lockable nozzle racks, which help to prevent theft and contamination. Joining the local Rural Crime Watch is another option. Contamination The major contaminant of stored fuel is water. It can enter the system through leaks, condensation, from the fuel supplier or through vandalism. Other contamination occurs when fuel is misdelivered, or equipment misfuelled. For example, gas mixed into diesel can cause extensive damage to diesel engines. Diesel fuel mixed into gas is generally not as serious a problem. Minimal amounts of water from condensation in underground and on-ground gasoline tanks can be dealt with by adding the appropriate fuel de-waterer. In diesel tanks, use a quality diesel fuel de-waterer. If a large amount of water exists, the only alternative may be to have the water pumped out. Determining how the water entered the system is also important in detecting possible leaks. In overhead tanks, water can be drained by removing the drain plug on the bottom of the tank. This is best done when the tank is almost empty. Catch the contaminated water for proper disposal. A common sediment in the fuel tank is minute particles of rust, caused by water contamination. Other sediments are formed when fuels stored for a long period begin to break down. Sediments can cause filter plugging, engine deposits, gumming and lacquering which lead to component sticking and engine wear. At the very least, contamination of fuel causes lost time and aggravation. Contamination of your engine's fuel system can be minimized by not refuelling within 24 hours of a fuel delivery. This will allow any small sediment particles to settle below the discharge height. Overhead tanks should be checked annually for sediment. This is done by drawing off about a litre of fuel from the fuel nozzle into a clear glass jar. If the sample is contaminated, ask your fuel supplier to co-operate by removing the entire contents and cleaning the tank. If the first sample isn't contaminated, use a clean rod or stick to agitate the tank through 7

9 the fill cap and draw off a second sample. If the second sample is contaminated, the tank should be cleaned at the first convenient opportunity. Filters and sediment bowls on overhead tanks will minimize the chances of contaminating equipment fuel systems. The filter should have enough capacity to pass fuel at the usual rate of filling. Most fuel pumps are equipped with filter screens, which limit sediment contamination, but require regular cleaning. Most plastic tanks aren't suitable for above ground fuel storage. Sunlight going through translucent tank walls promotes microbial growth and other fuel degradation. In addition, most plastic tanks are not strong enough for safe fuel storage. Evaporation Evaporative losses vary with the type of storage, type of fuel and steps taken to prevent evaporation. Losses range from minimal in underground tanks, to easily measurable in poorly located and maintained overhead tanks. In one test, as much as 30 litres per month was lost from a litre tank. The greater the swings in temperature of the fuel, the greater the potential loss and the larger the risk of contamination due to condensation. Evaporative losses aren't a major concern in underground tanks and only of minor concern in larger, on-ground tanks. The large volume of fuel and air helps to maintain a more even temperature. Owners should ensure that proper pressurevacuum relief valves are installed on tanks. These valves will reduce evaporation while allowing vapours to escape before tank pressures become excessive. On-ground and overhead tanks should be painted white or silver to reduce heat absorption and temperature fluctuations, which lead to evaporative losses. Providing a roof for shade is another preventative measure (Figure 11). Figure 11. Summer evaporation losses from 1,200 litre (265 gallons) gasoline storage tanks. Deterioration Fuel deterioration is minimized when fuel is stored at a cool, constant temperature. The larger the temperature swings and the higher the temperature, the faster fuel will deteriorate. Degraded fuel results in poor engine performance, less power, harder starting and lower fuel economy. Cool and consistent temperatures will prolong the storage life of your fuel. The size of fuel purchases should be limited to the amount required to seed and harvest one year's crops. There are several reasons for this. Fresh fuel provides more energy and better efficiency. The risk and cost of leakage, and the associated environmental liability, increase with the amount of fuel stored. So does the risk of theft. There is also the interest cost associated with owning and storing fuel. The greater the amount of fuel and the longer the storage period, the higher the interest cost. Diesel fuel should be bought in the season in which you intend to use it. Generally, the diesel fuel supplied goes through two grade changes in the fall. Summer grade diesel contains more wax and energy than winter diesel. However, when used at low temperatures, summer grade diesel may gel and cause engine problems. Therefore, it is important to buy a grade of diesel to match the temperatures you will be operating in. In the event of a price war there is always the temptation to purchase as much fuel as possible. Those with underground storage tanks are in the best position to take advantage of low prices. Underground tanks provide the best long-term storage capabilities. However, before purchasing fuel for long-term storage, carefully consider the interest costs, tax implications and your ability to maintain the fuel in good condition. 8

10 Transportation When transporting fuel in slip tanks (tanks in the back of a truck), the following precautions should be taken. Make sure the tank is securely fastened to the truck. The potential liability in losing a tank containing fuel on a highway is horrendous. If the tank contains 450 litres (100 gallons) or less, one visible, readable label on the tank is sufficient to identify the product. If the tank is over 450 litres (100 gallons), it should be equipped with the appropriate dangerous goods placard. Gasoline is code number 1203 and diesel fuel is code number If you are transporting over 2,000 litres, all required placards and a short form manifest should be used. For further information contact Alberta Transportation and Utilities. Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS) labels will inform anyone drawing fuel from the tank, to take the appropriate precautions. It is recommended that both dangerous goods placards and WHMIS labels be used when transporting fuels. These labels and placards ca n be purchased through fuel suppliers or at safety supply houses. When refuelling from slip tanks, remember the dangers of static electricity. Also, if your tank is equipped with a 12-volt pump be careful to keep all electrical systems properly maintained to prevent sparks. Small Container Storage Fuel stored in small containers should be kept to an absolute minimum. Only containers approved by the Underwriters' Laboratories of Canada (ULC), Factory Mutual (FM) or Canadian Standards Association (CSA) should be used. Never store fuel in glass jugs, or light plastic bleach, food or drink containers. Transfers out of small containers should be done in well ventilated areas. The Alberta Fire Code states that Class IA flammable liquids, which include gasoline, shouldn't be stored in a dwelling unit. In farm buildings other than a dwelling unit, the following guideline is suggested. The quantity of gasoline stored shouldn't exceed 30 litres and the amount of diesel fuel stored shouldn't exceed 150 litres. When gasoline and diesel fuels are stored in the same building, the maximum quantities are reduced according to the following formula: Gasoline Diesel = 1 30 Litres 150 Litres Also, flammable or combustible liquids (i.e., gasoline or diesel fuel) shouldn't be stored in or adjacent to exits. For further information on storage and handling of fuel in portable tanks, drums and containers, refer to the Alberta Fire Code, Part 4. Tank Installation All Tanks Proper tank installation provides protection from the risk of losses. If you are unsure of proper installation procedures, get qualified help. Tanks should be equipped with approved pressure/vacuum relief valves and shut off valves on outlet pipes. Also, all fuel storage and handling equipment, including tanks, pumps, fittings, hoses and nozzles must be designed for use in fuel systems. ULC or CSA approved equipment is recommended. As a guideline, the areas within six metres (20 feet) of fuel storage tanks, pumps, tank vents and fuel hoses should be considered Class I hazardous locations for the purpose of electrical wiring. Where a containment dike is provided, these hazardous locations are extended to include the area within the dike and upwards to the top of the dike. No open flames or other sources of ignition shall be permitted within these areas. When locating tanks, year-round access by both farm equipment and delivery vehicles needs to be considered. Fuel tanks should be located at least 15 metres (50 feet) from buildings, grain storages or similar structures. Also, they should be far enough away from overhead power lines so that a downed line can't come in contact with the tanks. In addition, the Water Well Regulation of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act states that above ground(i.e., on-ground and overhead) fuel storage tanks shall be at least 50 metres(164 feet) from a water well. Fuel storage tanks shouldn't be located in areas subject to flooding. On sloped land, they should be located downhill from the structures mentioned above. Fill-up hoses on storage tanks should be of ample length so that vehicles and farm equipment don't have to be driven dangerously close to fuel tanks for refuelling. Overhead Tanks Although the overhead tank is the most common farm fuel storage system, installation and maintenance aren't always done as well as they should be. Considering that a full 4,500 litre (1,000 gallon) tank weighs about 4.5 tonnes(5 tons), it's readily apparent that care should be taken when installing and protecting the tank and stand (Figure 6). 9

11 The weakest link in any overhead installation is the tank stand. Tank stands should be made of metal or other fireresistant materials. Wood is not suitable (Figure 12). While the stands provided with most tanks are adequate, they depend on the structural integrity of the legs and braces for their strength. A nicked or dented leg can cause a stand to collapse. Tank stands should be placed on a firm foundation. Figure 12. Problems shown include an old wooden tank stand,tanks located under a power line and too close to buildings. If the tank installation is not protected by a dike, extreme care should be taken to ensure that any spilled or leaked fuel drains away from wells, surface water and buildings. Concrete or compacted gravel pads are preferred methods of support. If a gravel pad is used, the foot plates of the tank legs must be large enough to adequately spread out the weight of the tank. Measures must be taken to protect the tank and stand from collision. Bollards (heavy metal or wood posts) are the simplest method. Tanks should be slightly lower at the end away from the discharge outlet. This allows water and sediment to settle below the level of the discharge outlet and helps prevent contamination of a vehicle's fuel system. Don't point the end of the tank at a building because, if the tank explodes, the force is often in the direction the tank is pointed. Tanks should have approved pressure-vacuum relief valves, and a shut-off valve on the discharge outlet of the tank itself. It can't be over emphasised that all tanks, fittings, hoses and nozzles should be designed for use in fuel systems. To remove any static electricity, tanks should be grounded. This can be done by driving a 10 foot, copper or galvanized iron ground rod into soil moisture. Connect the ground rod to the tank and stand with a heavy, copper electrical wire (minimum 6 gauge is recommended). These materials and associated fittings can be obtained from electrical supply houses. As described in the section on Reducing Risks Fire, a bonding line is also recommended. On-ground Tanks On-ground tanks require a foundation that prevents uneven settling of the tank and reduces corrosion. In practical terms, a level, compacted, gravel foundation provides this. The Alberta Fire Code states that the area surrounding a tank facility must be designed to contain accidental spillage. This essentially means that the tank area should be diked or double-walled tanks should be used (Figures 4 and 5). The dike must be impermeable and constructed of earth, steel, concrete, solid masonry or a compatible synthetic membrane liner. The floor of the diked area must also be impermeable and should be sloped to a sump. The size of the diked area should be sufficient to contain a volume of liquid not less than the volume of the largest tank, plus 10 per cent of the total volume of all the other tanks. Earth dikes must have a flat top, not less than 600 mm (two feet) wide and be at least 600 mm (two feet) high. The side slope should be natural for the material used. If piping passes through the dike, precautions are required to prevent seepage. A provision may be required to drain rain water from the diked area. Keep the drain closed as contaminated water requires special handling. See the Alberta Fire Code for more detailed information. Pumps and meters should be located outside the diked area on firm foundations. Use suitable wiring (for Class I hazardous locations, as outlined in the Electrical Code) for electrical pumps and meters. Protect tanks and pumps from collision by installing bollards, heavy posts made of wood or metal. The use of anti-siphon valves is also recommended. 10

12 Installed between the pump and tank, these valves prevent the tank from draining if the line is broken. Lines are commonly broken in the event of a collision with the pump. Another recommendation is to use a valve equipped with a fusible link. In the case of fire, the link melts, closing the valve and shutting off the flow of fuel. Underground Tanks Under the Alberta Fire Code, new underground fuel tanks must be installed by an approved contractor. While farmers are exempt from the Alberta Fire Code, there are compelling reasons why an approved contractor should be hired. Some protection is provided by the contractor's insurance if a leak or malfunction can be traced to the installation. If a farmer installs his own tanks, his risk is extended to include both the owner's and the installer's liabilities. New installations must include the following: cathodic protection for steel tanks and steel piping, overfill protection, spill containment at the filler tube, leak detection and tight-fill couplings. Equipment with ULC approval is highly recommended (Figure 3). There are several required steps to properly install an underground tank. A suitable location must be found. Care should be taken to ensure that the foundations of existing structures aren't undermined by the excavation, and foundation loads aren't transferred to the tank. If the fuel tanks are within 500 metres (550 yards) of a water well or 200 metres (220 yards) from a surface water source, this is considered a Class A site and secondary containment is required. A pit liner must be installed or doublewalled tanks and piping must be used. Pit liners must be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. Once in place, the tanks and piping should be tested for leaks. Currently, these tests can be pneumatic (using air pressure), hydrostatic (using liquid pressure) or non-volumetric. The only acceptable non-volumetric test is a vacutest. In this test the tank is subjected to a vacuum pressure and it is monitored for pressure variations. Nearly half the leaks in underground installations can be attributed to poor facility design or faulty installation. Caution: This is not an installation guide for underground tanks. If complete installation information is required, it can be obtained from the Petroleum Tank Management Association of Alberta (see Appendix). It's recommended that only approved contractors install underground tanks. Comparison of Fuel Storage Alternatives When deciding what type of fuel storage to install, consider the various factors described in this publication. The legal and financial implications must always be kept in mind when choosing equipment, installing or maintaining the fuel storage system. The different storage alternatives all have their own advantages and disadvantages. Because no particular system can be the best choice for everyone, weigh all of the factors and make decisions that best suit the particular situation. Planning for changing requirements in the future may influence decisions made today. For example, plans to expand the farm operation in the future may have a profound effect not only on the types and sizes of tanks chosen, but also the location and layout of the storage facility. A comparison of the three fuel storage alternatives follows (Table 1). 11

13 Table 1. A comparison of fuel storage alternative Factor Underground On-ground Overhead Purchase costs medium medium low Installation costs high medium low Fire hazard lowest medium highest Risk of accidental damage lowest medium highest Leak detection difficult vertical tanks - difficult easiest horizontal tanks - easy Leak repair & cleanup most difficult difficult least difficult Risk of theft, vandalism low medium high Temperature variations, fuel low medium high degradation, evaporation & condensation Pumps and meters required? Maintenance yes yes no pumps and meters pumps and meters, painting cans painting tanks and stamp Record keeping Other critical corrosion protection for steel tanks vertical tanks - critical horizontal tanks- important dike recommended recommended dike recommended 12

14 Emergency Procedures Fire In the event of a petroleum fire: personal safety comes first make sure you are safe. stay calm think. remove any injured people to a safe site, generally upwind from the fire. if there is a danger of explosion get away! if possible, stop the flow of fuel feeding the fire. remove on-going sources of ignition i.e., shut off the electricity. call the fire department and ambulance. Keep emergency telephone numbers close to the telephone. attempt to extinguish flames using approved equipment. Remember, diesel fuel and gasoline float. Don't wash flames to an area of higher danger. remember the order of priority, human safety comes first, then property. Don't risk your life for possessions. if a person, who is splashed with fuel, catches fire, wrap him in a blanket or roll him on the ground to remove oxygen and extinguish the fire. If this doesn't work, use an ABC, dry chemical, fire extinguisher to put out the fire. Leaks - Underground Tanks In the event of a confirmed leak in an underground tank or line, contact Alberta Environmental Protection (see Appendix). Personnel from Alberta Environmental Protection will direct you as to the procedures to follow. Leaks or Spills - Above Ground In the event of an above-ground spill or leak: stop the flow of fuel. remove all sources of ignition. Be prepared to use a fire extinguisher. Remember gas vapours flow down hill and are extremely explosive. contain the spilled fuel by damming with earth or another suitable absorbent material. Don't wash the spilled fuel away into potentially higher risk areas. Protect water sources and septic systems. work from the upwind side to avoid inhaling vapours and becoming engulfed in flames if a fire starts. clean up and dispose of all fuel by shovelling the contaminated earth or absorbent material into metal containers. In the case of ponding fuel, a hazardous materials vacuum truck is required to remove the majority of the fuel. Dispose of contaminated cleanup materials in accordance with the local fire authority and Alberta Environmental Protection. ensure that all ignitable vapours are dispersed before resuming normal activities. It's a regulatory requirement that all spills and leaks of 200 litres or more of gasoline or diesel fuel must be reported to Alberta Environmental Protection (see Appendix). Spills or leaks of lesser amounts must also be reported if they have, or may have, an adverse effect on the environment. An adverse effect is defined in the EPEA as "impairment of or damage to the environment, human health or safety, or property." Any leak or spill of any amount into a watercourse, water body or groundwater must be reported. Appendix Reporting Leaks and Spills Contact the Pollution Emergency Response Team, Alberta Environment at In Case of a Fuel Leak or Spill First, contact your local fire department by calling 911 or its local telephone number. Then, to report the fuel leak or spill (or to file a fuel contamination complaint), call the Alberta Environmental Hotline (toll-free, 24 hours) at: If you are using a cellular phone on Telus Mobility system you can dial #7378. Further Information Alberta Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Agricultural Engineering Branch Street Edmonton, Alberta T6H 5T6 Telephone: (780) Website: 13

15 Alberta Transportation Dangerous Goods and Rail Safety Branch Main Floor, Twin Atria Building Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T6B 2X3 Telephone: (780) (Edmonton and local calling area) (from outside the Edmonton local calling area) Website: Petroleum Tank Management Association of Alberta Suite 980, Jasper Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T5J 3N6 Telephone: (780) or Website: Reference Publications The Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act may be purchased from either of the two Queen's Printer Bookstores: Main Floor, Park Plaza Avenue Edmonton, Alberta T5K 2P7 Telephone: (780) Or 602, 620-7th Avenue SW John J. Bowlen Building Calgary, Alberta T2P 0Y8 Telephone: (403) The Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act may also be viewed and/or printed from the Queen's Printer website: The Alberta Fire Code may be purchased from: Learning Resources Centre Street Edmonton, Alberta T5L 4X9 Telephone: (780) Website: The Canadian Electrical Code may be purchased from: The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Street North West Edmonton, Alberta T6N 1E6 Telephone: (780) or Fax: (780) Website: For information on amendments to the Canadian Electrical Code, applicable to Alberta, contact: Alberta Municipal Affairs Safety Services Branch Edmonton, Alberta Telephone: (780) These publications may also be available at public, university or government libraries in Alberta. 14

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