PMLIS 2007 - Kentucky AST / State Information

Kentucky - Fire Code and Safety Standards

Summary

The only Kentucky law that applies specifically to ASTs is the national fire code and safety standards. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has published a code pertaining to flammable and combustible liquids which Kentucky has adopted and implements through the state fire marshal's office; NFPA 30. Click here for a link to the full text of Kentucky's statute governing safety standards, KRS 227.300, and the corresponding regulations at 815 KAR 10:050. Both links are provided via the website maintained by the Kentucky Legislative Research Commission. NFPA 30 requirements consist mainly of design and installation criteria.

Fire Code and Safety Standards

NFPA 30 provides certain requirements for tank storage, piping systems, and operations. With regard to tank storage, ASTs that exceed a 660 gallon capacity must be built and constructed in accordance with recognized engineering standards for material and design. Tanks must be located no closer than specified distances from property lines, buildings, and each other. This distance depends on the type of tank, class of liquid stored, and pressure within the tank. Measures must be taken to prevent any accidental spillage from reaching important facilities, adjoining property, or waterways. These measures can include remote impounding or diking around the tanks. The ASTs must be vented to prevent excessive pressure buildup within the tank. Vents must be constructed to avoid overheating or flame impingement on the tank in the event vapors are ignited. In addition, ASTs must be equipped with emergency relief venting, such as a floating or lifter roof, to relieve pressure caused by exposure fires. Piping must be located so that vapors will be released at a safe distance from buildings and ground level. Tank openings must contain internal or external valves and must be closed with a vapor tight cap or cover when not in use. Tanks taken out of service must be emptied of liquid, rendered vapor-free, and safeguarded against trespassing. NFPA 30 further provides requirements for tank supports, foundations, and anchorage in accordance with certain engineering principles. If the tanks are located in areas subject to flooding, provisions must be taken to prevent floatation, movement, and collapse. Personnel must be informed of flood emergency procedures and the location and operation of valves and other equipment in the event of a flood emergency. All tanks must be tested and any potential for leakage corrected prior to installation. Tanks must be maintained liquid tight. Should a tank leak, it must be emptied and repaired. Finally, fire prevention systems must be provided for certain ASTs and unsupervised ASTs must be marked to identify fire hazards of the contents of the tank.

With regard to piping systems for ASTs, NFPA 30 provides requirements for design, assembly, testing, and inspection. Piping systems must be constructed of certain materials in conformance with recognized engineering principles and must be compatible with the fluid contained within the tank. Pipe joints must be liquid tight. Piping systems must be substantially supported and protected against physical damage and stress and systems must be protected against corrosion. All piping must be tested prior to installation. Finally, each loading and unloading riser for liquid storage must be identified by color code or marking to identify the product for which the tank is used.

NFPA 30 also provides certain criteria for operating procedures. These include requirements for drainage and electrical equipment type, installation, and location. With regard to handling, transfer, and use of liquids stored, NFPA 30 requires procedures to promptly and safely dispose of leakage or spills. Tank vehicle and car loading and unloading facilities must be separated from ASTs, buildings and property lines by minimum distances. Certain tank vehicles must have vapor control systems and be equipped with shut off valves. Precautions must be taken at the facility to prevent or minimize the loss from fire or explosion. Fire protection equipment must be properly maintained and inspected. An emergency plan must be established to respond to fire or other emergencies and must include: (1) emergency procedures such as notification of the fire department, evacuation, and controlling and extinguishing the fire; (2) appointment and training of personnel to carry out emergency duties; (3) fire drills; (4) shutdown or isolation of equipment to reduce the escape of liquid; and (5) alternate measures for the safety of facility occupants while any fire protection equipment is shut down. Steps must be taken to insure detection of potential spills. These steps may include personnel observation, monitoring equipment, or gas detectors. Measures must also be taken to insure prompt notification of facility personnel and the public or fire department in the event of an emergency.

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