18 AAC 78.070. Release detection methods and monitoring for piping

(a) Each method of release detection for piping used to meet the requirements of 18 AAC 78.060 and 18 AAC 78.065 must be conducted as required by this section Pressurized piping must meet the applicable requirements set out either in (b) and (c) of this section or in (b) and (d) of this section. Suction piping must meet the applicable requirements set out in (c) of this section and, if applicable, (d) of this section.

(b) Automatic line leak detection. An automatic leak detection method that alerts the operator to the presence of a leak by restricting or shutting off the flow of petroleum through piping or by triggering an audible or visual alarm may be used only if that method is capable of detecting a leak of three gallons per hour at 10 pounds per square inch line pressure within one hour. An annual test of the operation of the leak detector must be conducted in accordance with the manufacturer's requirements. A stand-alone sump sensor is not sufficient to meet this requirement.

(c) Line tightness testing. A tightness test of piping may be conducted only if the tightness test is capable of detecting a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate at one and one-half times the line's normal operating pressure. The test must be performed by a person certified under this chapter. Where a line leak detector is installed on the piping that has the same leak detection capability as the tightness test specified in 18 AAC 78.065(d) , the tightness test may be omitted. Except as otherwise permitted under (d) of this section, if pressurized piping is used, the line tightness test must be conducted annually, and if underground piping that conveys petroleum under suction is used, the line tightness test must be conducted at least every three years. However, no release detection is required for suction piping designed and constructed to meet the following standards:

(1) the below-grade piping operates at less than atmospheric pressure and is sloped so that the contents of the pipe will drain back into the storage tank if the suction is released;

(2) only one check valve is included in each suction line;

(3) the check valve is located directly below and as close as practical to the suction pump; and

(4) a means is provided to readily determine that (1) - (3) of this subsection are satisfied.

(d) Notwithstanding the requirements of (c) of this section, any monitoring method set out in 18 AAC 78.065(f) - (j) may be used if that method is designed to detect a release from any part of the underground piping that routinely contains petroleum and that method is used monthly.

History: Eff. 3/25/91, Register 118; am 11/3/95, Register 136; am 1/30/2003, Register 165

Authority: AS 46.03.020

AS 46.03.365

AS 46.03.375

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