RSPA sets pipeline breakout tank rule

May 10, 1999
The U.S. Transportation Department's Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) has proposed tighter standards for pipeline breakout tanks.

The U.S. Transportation Department's Research and Special Programs Administration (RSPA) has proposed tighter standards for pipeline breakout tanks.

The tanks are used to relieve surges in hazardous liquid pipelines or to store liquids for continued transportation in the line. The rule, to take effect in 18 months, incorporates 13 consensus standards that the National Fire Protection Association and American Petroleum Institute have developed. The standards cover design, construction, operation, maintenance, repair, and spill prevention. RSPA has jurisdiction over 9,200 above-ground breakout tanks operated by the pipelines that it regulates. The agency said that, during 1987-98, there were 177 accidents involving breakout tanks. They resulted in three injuries to pipeline personnel and nearly $14.2 million in property damage. Also, 172,405 bbl of product were spilled, of which 40,387 bbl were not recovered.

RSPA Administrator Kelley Coyner said, "Rarely does a pipeline breakout tank fail, and this stronger standard will make such an event even less likely. This standard will make people safer and provide better protection for the environment."

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