UNDERSTANDING ABOVEGROUND FUEL TANK STANDARDS

On-site stationary aboveground storage tanks for petroleum products and chemicals must meet federal, state and local requirements. It’s easy to understand why. Flammable or combustible liquids can pose fire or environmental risks if not handled properly. What’s not as easy to understand? Knowing which fuel tank standards apply to your operation.

While federal requirements set the baseline for storage tank requirements, regulations can vary from state to state and town to town. We’re here to answer some frequently asked questions so you can better navigate the regulatory landscape in your area. 

What do federal, state and local fuel tank regulations have in common?

At the most basic level, fuel tank standards for flammable and combustible liquid storage exist to protect people, buildings and the environment. That’s why requirements across the board are based on fire protection and spill containment.

What organizations set aboveground fuel tank standards?

Local, state and federal regulatory bodies can set requirements for the use of aboveground fuel and oil tanks. However, the most widely recognized set of standards for shop-fabricated flammable or combustible liquids is UL 142. It was first drafted more than 100 years ago by Underwriters Laboratories to define tank construction standards related to leak prevention, proper venting and internal pressure. Underwriters Laboratories (now known as UL Enterprise) is an independent, globally recognized third-party safety company.

UL 142 has since been expanded to include additional requirements for tank construction, performance and labeling.

How can I tell if a tank is UL 142 certified?

Tanks with the UL 142 Listing have undergone a rigorous evaluation. As a result, you’ll see a Listing Mark directly on the tank with UL Certified and a unique number. You can verify the certification by calling the UL Solutions Customer Experience Center at 1-877-854-3577.

Am I required to use a tank built to UL 142 standards?

Requirements vary by location, but you’ll likely want to use UL 142 tanks even if they’re not specifically required. That’s because UL 142 tanks are built to meet a variety of National Fire Protection Association^® (NFPA^®) codes — which are the basis for most local fire requirements. UL 142 tanks meet the following standards:

• NFPA 1: Uniform Fire Code

• NFPA 30: Flammable and Combustible Liquids Code

• NFPA 30A: Code for Motor Fuel Dispensing Facilities and Repair Garages

• NFPA 31: The Standard for Installation of Oil-Burning Equipment

• NFPA 37: Standard for the Installation and Use of Stationary Combustion Engines and Gas Turbines

Tanks with a UL 142 Listing also meet the International Fire Code published by the International Code Council.

Do UL 142 tanks meet fuel tank spill containment requirements?

The short answer: They can, if they’re built with double-wall construction. The longer answer: Regulations vary by state and community, but many spill containment codes can be answered with a secondary containment tank — more commonly known as double-wall tanks.

These containers are built as a tank within a tank. The inner space holds the product, while the outer tank acts as a protective layer to prevent spills. It’s a last line of defense that could prevent costly cleanup, environmental damage or fire risk. Double-wall construction also creates an additional safeguard against combustion if equipment or a vehicle accidentally collides with the tank. However, it’s important to note that other regulations, such as barricades around tanks, may apply locally.

Are all fuel tanks held to the same federal standards?

Shop-fabricated steel aboveground storage tanks are exempt from federal regulations if they hold less than 1,100 gallons of fuel and are used for noncommercial purposes. As a result, homes with oil-fired heating systems may store fuel on-site without UL 142 or double-wall tanks. Even so, many homeowners choose the tanks for their added security.

Where can I purchase UL 142 tanks?

Multiple manufacturers design and fabricate UL 142 tanks. But with Amarillo Tanks, you’ll find time-tested, UL-certified designs expertly crafted by a company with more than 100 years of experience. We stock several standard sizes available for immediate delivery, but we can also build custom tanks to your exact specifications.

Have more questions?

The Amarillo Tanks team is here to help. Give us a call at 855-336-2687 or request a quote online.