The rule is only in the proposal stage right now, but the EPA looks to be adding to it’s 1988 underground storage tank
technical, financial responsibility, and state program approval regulations.
From the EPAs proposal:
Proposed changes include: Adding secondary containment requirements for new and replaced tanks and piping; adding operator training requirements; adding periodic operation and maintenance requirements for UST systems; removing certain deferrals; adding new release prevention and detection technologies; updating codes of practice; making editorial and technical corrections; and updating state program approval requirements to incorporate these new changes.
This rule will certainly affect gas stations, but could also have implications for businesses in the manufacturing, transportation, communications, and agriculture industries. It looks like one direct effect will be the need for potential upgrades in technology , as well as a special emphasis on properly operating and maintaining your UST equipment. The EPA said they are sensitive to the future costs associated with this rule, so the agency will work to minimize any required retrofits.
We will continue to monitor this and post updates here on any new developments. For more information, you can view the full federal register proposal here.
