The International Liquid Terminals Association (ILTA) has announced that the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalised its new rule expanding the use of in-service tank inspections. The final rule allows operators of tanks regulated under the New Source Performance Standards of Subpart Kb to use the in-service inspection requirements of Subpart WW to conduct periodic inspections of internal floating roof rim seals.
This rule would eliminate the need for tank operators to empty their Kb tanks and remove them from service to conduct these inspections. By allowing a more efficient, in-service inspection method to approximately 3500 storage vessels, the industry saves money and fewer air pollutants are emitted.
The liquid terminal industry has wanted this change for years. ILTA was able to highlight the unusual oversupply situation brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic (that has left tanks unusually full and nearly impossible to empty for inspection) to successfully make its case to EPA for the change.
“We thank EPA for prioritising this final rule,” ILTA President Kathryn Clay said today. “This common-sense solution will lower emissions, ensure safety and provide operations with increased regulatory flexibility.”
The EPA estimates that the rule will reduce emissions of volatile organic compounds by as much as 83 tpy and save US$768 000 – UA$1.1 million in regulatory costs annually. ILTA member companies estimate that savings could be even greater.