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Leak Detection and Repair

Ohio has adopted the federal regulations for natural gas processing plants. Additionally, for it has adopted a General Permit program for well-site production practices that requires quarterly instrument-based leak detection surveys. If a facility displays manageable leak frequencies (less that 2 percent of its components are leaking), it may skip the next survey.

Venting and/or Flaring

No well will be permitted to flow oil or gas uncontrolled.

Surface Equipment: All wells must be equipped so that no gas is allowed to escape with the exception of gas released by a properly functioning relief device and gas released by controlled venting for testing. Flares must be a minimum of 100 ft. from the well, 100 ft. from oil production tanks and all other surface equipment, and 100 ft. from existing inhabited structures.

Flares must be safely fenced if within 150 ft. of an existing inhabited structure.

Tanks: Tanks shall not be buried. Activated charcoal filters shall be installed on the vent stack and filters replaced as needed. Vent stacks shall have a functioning low-pressure relief valve. Tank hatch lids shall have a functioning seal and the hatch shall be secured at all times if the well owner or his representative is not on-site. Each oil storage tank shall have a functioning lightning arrestor.

Exceptions: The Chief and inspectors have the authority to issue orders to correct operating practices on wells extant prior to the effective date if such practices are in violation and have proved by actual incident to be hazardous or dangerous. Exceptions may be granted by the Chief or his inspectors.