Energy Storage Container Inspection Standards

What inspection and testing requirements apply to bulk storage containers?

Some inspection and testing provisions apply to bulk storage containers at onshore facilities (other than production facilities). Inspection and/or testing requirements also apply to other components of a facility that might cause a discharge (such as vehicle drains, foundations, or other equipment or devices).

What if energy storage system and component standards are not identified?

Energy Storage System and Component Standards 2. If relevant testing standards are not identified, it is possible they are under development by an SDO or by a third-party testing entity that plans to use them to conduct tests until a formal standard has been developed and approved by an SDO.

Do you need integrity testing for a bulk storage container?

Integrity testing is required for all aboveground bulk storage containers located at onshore facilities (except oil production facilities). Integrity testing is necessary to determine if the container (e.g. a tank) is suitable for continued use until the next formal inspection.

What standards are required to inspect aboveground containers?

Industry standards, such as API 653 and STI SP001 contain requirements to inspect aboveground containers. This standard focuses primarily on inspection of welded, metal, shop-fabricated and small field-erected tanks.

How long should a container be inspected?

You must retain testing and inspection records for 3 years. EPA recommends that formal test records or reports be retained for the life of the container. Integrity testing is required for all aboveground bulk storage containers located at onshore facilities (except oil production facilities).

What is container integrity testing?

Depending on the type of container, integrity testing may be as simple as an external visual inspection or may involve more complicated methods of non-destructive testing such as Magnetic Flux Leakage (MFL) or ultrasonic thickness (UT) measurements, vacuum box testing, and weld inspection in order to adequately assess the container condition.