Oregon Resources

Questions from 2003-2005 classes

ATG: Is annual servicing and maintenance required for automatic tank gauges (like a Veeder Root)? No, it is up the the manufacturer to decide how often, but BTA strongly suggests doing it annually. 

ATG: Do I have to do an annual tank tightness test if I already have a tank gauge and do a 0.2 gph test every month? No, a monthly 0.2 gph test is enough.

ATG: How can I learn how to get basic reports from my Veeder-Root tank gauge? Get a copy of Veeder Root's  Operator Quick Help Guide for TLS-300, 350 and 350R models. 

Attendants: How many trained attendants are required at a site? The law doesn't specify, but the owner does have to to post information at the UST facility so attendants can see emergency response information.

Cathodic protection testing of STIp3 tanks: Can a STIp3 tank with a built-in "PP4" test center be tested by a tank owner/operator without hiring a corrosion tester? Yes.

Corrosion protection for steel piping. What if I discover that my bare steel pipe was never cathodically protected? The piping my be removed and replaced with a corrosion-safe piping system like fiberglass.

Dispenser sump sensors: When is a sump sensor required in a dispenser sump? If the dispenser sump is connected and continuous to the double-wall pressurize piping interstitial space, then a sump sensor is required, according to DEQ.  If you cannot do this, you must do an annual line tightness test. 

Electronic line leak detectors: Is an electronic line leak detector allowed as a replacement for annual line tightness testing? Yes if the device is third party approved and runs a 0.2. gph test once a month.

Deliveries:  Must an owner or his/her representative be present for all deliveries? Yes. Someone must measure the tank before the deliver to ensure there is enough room and monitor the transfer. DEQ is working on a policy to see if that someone could include the truck driver. Stay tuned for details.

Reporting releases: Is there a spill that is too small to report to DEQ? All spills should be cleaned up but any spill to land over 42 gallons must be reported as well to the DEQ. Any spill to surface water which causes a sheen (which is 99% of the time) must be reported.

Replacing parts: If I replace a device like a sump sensor or line leak detector, must I notify DEQ prior? No, so long as you use a service provider.

Sump sensor alarms: Must I report to DEQ if a sump sensor alarm goes off? Yes, unless you investigate the alarm within 24 hours and determine there has not been a release to the environment. BTA suggested getting help from a service provider.

Trained operator: What if the designated operator for one facility is unavailable during inspection. Can another one take his/her place? Yes.  

Stage I Vapor Recovery: In the greater Portland area, aren't all USTs greater than 1,500 gallons subject to Stage I vapor recovery rules? Yes. The training manual incorrectly stated it is only for tanks with an annual throughput of 600,000 or greater, which is incorrect. All USTs greater than 1,500 gallons must follow Stage I rules including permitting, daily checking, record keeping and testing.

Water: It is a law that the tank must be checked for water every month? Yes, DEQ requires it if you do inventory reconciliation or SIR for leak detection. Also, the Division of Weights & Measures requires checking for water if you dispenser fuel to the public. STI has a new publication to help manage water in steel tanks.