Leak Detection and Repair
Underground piping that routinely contains regulated substances must be installed and monitored for releases in a manner that meets the following requirements: Piping that conveys regulated substances under pressure must be equipped with an automatic line leak detector. New installations and facilities replacing a piping system must have at least one sump sensor, float or similar mechanical device for each tank system, located at the bottom of the lowest piping gradient sump. The interstitial area of the piping must be open inside the sumps to allow fuel to drain into the sumps in the event that a leak occurs. Sensors must be mounted at the bottom of the sump(s) and accessible for testing. Underground pressure piping from a master dispenser to a satellite dispenser must be designed and installed so that the satellite piping is tested by the automatic line leak detector. An annual line tightness test is required on the satellite underground piping.
Each method of release detection for underground pressurized piping must be performed in accordance with the following requirements:
Automatic mechanical line leak detectors and annual line tightness testing: Methods which alert the operator to the presence of a leak by restricting or shutting off the flow of regulated substances through piping. An annual test of the leak detector must be conducted by simulating a leak in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements. Automatic line leak detectors must be capable of detecting the leak rate with a probability of detection of 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of 0.05.
Double walled piping with sump sensors at each dispenser, transition and tank sump may be used in lieu of annual line tightness testing. The sump sensors, floats or other mechanical devices used must be tested annually according to manufacturer's requirements. Sensors status and alarm history reports must be printed and retained each month. An annual function test of the leak detector must be conducted by simulating a leak in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements.
A certified electronic line leak detector may be used in lieu of an mechanical line leak detector and annual tightness test only if: The system is capable of detecting and tests for a leak of three gallons per hour before or after each operation; and the system is capable of detecting and tests for a leak of 0.2 gallons per hour at least once every month; and the system is capable of detecting and tests for a leak of 0.1 gallons per hour annually; and the system must be function tested annually by simulating a leak in accordance with manufacturer's specifications. If the system has printer capabilities, attach the electronic line leak detector printout documenting the system shutdown or alarmed when tested.
Venting and/or Flaring
An operator may blow a producing well without permit if: Blowing the well is necessary for efficient operation. Blowing the well will not damage it. The operator complies with the H2S requirements. An operator may vent or flare up to 50 mcf/d without a permit if: It is not economically feasible to market the gas. A suitable stand, line, or stack is used to prevent a hazard to people. H2S content of gas exceeds 100 ppm, then the gas must be flared.
The Conservation Division may grant a permit to vent or flare on a daily basis, gas volumes in excess 50 mcf/d if: The operator applies for the permit. The application lists the location of the well and the maximum daily volume of gas to be vent or flared. It is not economically feasible to market the gas. A suitable stack, stand, or line will be used to prevent a hazard to people or property.
The operator shall file an amended application in the event that the amount of gas to be vented exceeds the permitted volume. If the Division denies an application for a well, the operator may apply for an order permitting venting or flaring of gas. Upon application, notice, and hearing, the Commission may grant or deny an application.
Normal vents must not be less than 1 1/4 in. nominal inside diameter. Where vent pipe outlets for tanks storing Class I liquids are adjacent to buildings or public ways, they must be located so that the vapors are released at a safe point outside of buildings and not less than 12 ft. above the adjacent ground level. In order to aid in dispersion, vapors must be discharged upward. Vent outlets must be located so that flammable vapors will not be trapped by obstructions and be at least five feet from building openings. Vent pipes that are provided for normal tank venting must extend at least 12 ft. above ground level or five feet above the roof line at the highest point of attachment.