Regulatory Spotlights

March 2010: Stage I Vapor Recovery Deadline Approaching

Stage I Vapor Recovery is used during the refueling of gasoline storage tanks to reduce hydrocarbon emissions. Vapors in the tank, which are displaced by the incoming gasoline, are routed through a hose into the cargo tanker instead of being vented into the atmosphere. As you probably know, the NESHAP (National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants) Final Rule for Gasoline Dispensing Facilities will go into effect in less than a year. So what do you need to do to be ready to meet these new compliance requirements?

Following is a chart of the Stage I Vapor Recovery regulations that affect you depending on your monthly volume of fuel throughput (Click on image for larger resolution):

In summary, here are the key points from the regulations you don’t want to miss:

• Under 10,000 gallons – Minimize spills. Clean any spill as quick as possible. Cover gas tanks and storage tank fill pipes with gasketed seal. Minimize gas sent to open collection systems.

• At or Over 10,000 gallons – Meet the < 10,000 gallon requirements AND load all storage tanks at or above 250 gallons capacity using submerged fill pipes (i.e. CHECK YOUR DROP TUBES).

• At or Over 100,000 gallons – Meet all other requirements AND currently operate a vapor balance system that meets specified enforceable state or local rules/permits

-OR-

• Operate a Vapor Balance System during storage tank loadings, test periodically to make sure it works alright, and include specific equipment and practices to meet 95% emissions control. (i.e. CHECK YOUR POPPETS and other vapor equipment. If your poppets are not swivel adaptors, you may need to replace these with the newer swivel variety by January 10, 2010)

Click here to download a summary copy of this regulation, or visit EPA’s website for a complete set of documents surrounding these guidelines. For specific state or local requirements, please contact your state represenative. A list of state representatives can be found in the above link.

For more information on how to stay proactively compliant using our advanced compliance software and services, contact Titan today at (615) 372-6000 or ROI@mytitan.net for a free demo.