What Are The Code Requirements On Aboveground Storage Tanks?
Code Requirements on Aboveground Storage Tanks Dispensing Fuels At Motor Vehicle Fuel-Dispensing Stations
What follows is a detailed chart developed by the executive vice president of Steel Tank Institute, Wayne Geyer, P.E. Fire codes play a prominent role in tank buying decisions. As such, it is important to know which codes are specific to your particular situation, and how these varied and complex codes will affect you. Mr. Geyer has boiled down the code details volumes into the easy-to-use chart below.
Approval/General Provisions
NFPA 30A, 2000 Edition
Use of aboveground storage tanks at motor fuel-dispensing facilities, fleet vehicle motor fuel-dispensing facilities, and marine motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be permitted when installed in accordance with the requirements of Section 4.3 and with all applicable requirements of Chapters 2 and 3 of NFPA 30, and when the AHJ has approved the specific installation.
International Fire Code, 2000 Edition
In compliance with Chapter 34 (Chapter on Flammable and Combustible Liquids) and as given in Section 2206.2.3, aboveground tanks used for outdoor storage of motor fuels categorized as Class I, II or III-A liquids shall be allowed. Requires tank service listing and labeling. Aboveground steel tanks are authorized provided their location is licensed or is in a jurisdiction-setting zone or district. Separation requirements for the aboveground tank locations are restricted by Table 2206.2.3. Aboveground tanks are allowed above or below degree in vaults. Special tank enclosures are required to surmount impossible conditions.
Uniform Fire Code, 2000 Edition
The dispensing of Class I and Class II liquids from aboveground tanks into motor vehicles is prohibited, except that dispensing from special enclosures and, if approved, from protected tanks and below-grade vaults is permitted where underground tanks are impractical. However, when installed in districts or zones established by the jurisdiction or in approved locations, Appendix II-K which sets out requirements for dispensing from unprotected tanks at private motor vehicle fuel dispensing stations shall be accepted.
Terminology
NFPA 30A, 2000 Edition
Resistant to fire Tank. The design listed, which provides the required fire-resistive protection, prevents liquid release, primary tank failure, supporting structure failure, and venting impairment for no less than 2 hours when tested using a fire exposure that simulates a high-intensity pool fire, such as UL 2080 or similar.
Protected Tank Upstairs. The design listed, which provides the required fire-resistive protection, prevents liquid release, primary tank failure, support structure failure, and venting impairment for no less than 2 hours, and limits the increase in liquid temperature inside the tank when tested using the fire exposure specified in UL 2085.
Vault. The vault must be tight with liquid and designed to withstand soil, water, traffic, etc. loads. Vaults shall be provided with approved vapor & liquid detection systems, including battery-backed audible & visual warning devices on-site. Vaults with liquids of Class I require exhaust ventilation.