Treating the earth with respect has become a big priority. We only have one planet so people and businesses must make the effort to take care of it. Preventing a chemical spill does just that — it protects the environment and the population plus it keeps your company from paying large monetary fines.
Both the EPA and OSHA have rules pertaining to tank trucks and rail cars transporting harmful chemicals and fuels. That’s why companies must be prepared for accidental spills that could seep into the ground or leak into the water supply.
At transloading facilities most spills occur when there’s:
• an accidental overfill.
• a leaking valve.
• a hose connection or valve failure.
• a residual fluid spill from hoses, valves and other disconnected equipment.
There are three basic types of Spill Containment:
• Metal track pans that can be positioned end-to-end for continuous coverage and are constructed from aluminum, heavy-gauge carbon steel, galvanized or stainless steel.
• Polyethylene pans work well for storage areas, railroad refueling, and high flow rate requirements. Interconnecting pipes and cross drains can help accommodate high flow rates. These pans are tested with most chemicals and high temperatures do not seem to be a problem either.
• Polyethylene containment pans are smaller and more economical than track pans. They can serve as a “quick fix” but are not made for large spills and should never be used with acids. Pans lock onto the rail beneath tank cars to catch drips and small spills. They can hold up to 50 pounds of liquid.
To determine if your business needs spill containment systems, SPCC regulations are as follows: “If the loading/unloading area drainage does not flow into a catchment basin or treatment facility that can handle the discharges, it is possible to use a quick drainage system for these areas. The containment system has to be able to hold at least the maximum capacity of a single compartment of a tank car or truck loaded/unloaded at the facility.”
Most spill containment and spill collection systems can be manufactured to meet each customer’s specifications. Materials used may be concrete, steel or high-density polyethylene. Of course the material needed depends on several factors including what type of liquid, the facility location, surrounding environment and more.
Failing to meet government regulations can result in hefty regulatory fines and expensive clean-up costs for your company. So if you’re unsure as to whether your company needs spill containment or if you are meeting regulations, contact Carbis today and we’ll help you determine what type of spill containment your company needs.
