Standardization News

A new ASTM International standard will help deter trespassing on properties with many oil storage tanks, known as tank farms. The guide (E2942, Guide for Security of Tank Farm Installations for Compliance with Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Plan (SPCC) Regulations) will help property owners identify fencing and lighting to protect these areas.

"Oil storage facilities are located in many urban and rural locations," said ASTM member J. Phillip Smith, a licensed professional engineer and consultant. "People who are unfamiliar with the hazards that exist at these types of facilities can be injured or killed if they gain access and engage in activities that could cause a fire or explosion."

According to Smith, there are many fencing types and light levels that could be appropriate for any given location. The new guide outlines ways to determine what kinds of fencing and lighting might work best, drawing on best practices from past success in security installations.

Owners and operators of tank farms will benefit from the standard. In addition, environmental regulatory bodies might use the standard to help review a facility's Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure Plan which includes descriptions of security measures to prevent unauthorized access to oil handling, processing, and storage areas.

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CONTACT Technical Information: J. Phillip Smith • tel +1.281.497.4223; | ASTM Staff: Kathleen Chalfin • tel +1.610.932.9717 | Upcoming Meeting: Oct. 25-27 • October Committee Week • Orlando, Fla.