PHOTO SHOWS → WELL-PROTECTED TANK FARM
→ Vehicle-impact bollards installed → Fuel placards visible → Hoses organized → Reduced spill/fire exposure
What You Are Looking At
- Outdoor above-ground storage tanks (ASTs) for diesel, gasoline, or waste oil (commonly 250–2,000 gallons).
- Used for fleet fueling, service yards, generators, or used-oil accumulation.
- Includes tanks, pumps/dispensers, hoses, labeling, and vehicle-impact protection.
Why This Is a Serious Concern
- Missing bollards, faded signs, or improper bonding/grounding increase the likelihood of:
- vehicle impact,
- fuel spill,
- flash fire,
- environmental release requiring cleanup.
- EPA SPCC violations, NFPA 30 violations, and improper labeling can result in major liability exposure and noncompliance.
Good Condition (Acceptable)
- Vehicle-impact protection installed (steel bollards or equivalent barrier system), properly anchored and in good repair.
- “NO SMOKING” and hazard-warning signs legible and weather-resistant.
- Correct NFPA 704 diamond placards and fuel-type labels visible on tanks and dispensers.
- Bonding/grounding installed per tank/pump manufacturer and code (cables intact, terminals clean).
- ABC extinguisher (20-B:C minimum) within 30 ft, with current annual inspection tag.
- Hoses stored properly; no visible spills or staining around tanks.
Fix Needed – HIGH PRIORITY (Spill / Fire / Explosion Hazard)
- Missing, damaged, or inadequate bollards or crash protection.
- Faded, torn, or missing “No Smoking,” hazard, or fuel-type signage.
- Missing NFPA 704 placards or incorrect color/number placement.
- Damaged or missing bonding/grounding wires at pumps or tanks.
- No fire extinguisher present or tag expired.
- Evidence of leaks, hose deterioration, or fuel staining on pavement.
Corrective Actions & Proper Recommendation
Immediate
- Replace any faded or missing signage/placards.
- Verify bonding/grounding cables are intact and free of corrosion.
- Position a 20-B:C-rated fire extinguisher within 30 ft and ensure the inspection tag is current.
Within 14 Days
- Install or repair steel bollards or equivalent crash protection if missing.
- Repair fence or gate if the tank area is required to be secured by the AHJ.
Within 30 Days
- Schedule certified AST inspector for integrity test, leak check, and SPCC compliance review.
- Attach updated service/inspection tag.
Report Wording Suggestions
“Good”
“ASTs properly protected with bollards; signage and placards legible; bonding/grounding intact; extinguisher within 30 ft and current.”
“Fix Needed – HIGH RISK”
“ASTs missing required bollards, signage/placards, or bonding/grounding. No compliant extinguisher observed. Immediate spill/fire hazard. Recommend installing crash protection and replacing signage today, verifying bonding/grounding, and scheduling certified tank inspection within 30 days per NFPA 30 and EPA SPCC requirements.”
LCA Certified Inspector Motto
“Guard it. Sign it. Ground it. Rec it.”
Disclosure
This card highlights common hazards and compliance issues for exterior above-ground fuel tanks. Requirements for crash protection, signage, bonding/grounding, spill prevention, and inspection intervals vary by tank type, fuel type, NFPA 30 (2024 ed.), and 40 CFR 112 (EPA SPCC) regulations, as well as local fire-code enforcement. Always confirm local AHJ requirements and consult a licensed tank professional when tank integrity, labeling, or protection measures are in question.
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