Complying With Federal Standards For the Containment of Hazardous Fuels and Chemicals

There are several state and federal agencies, thecontrolling leaks and spills. Determine the
EPA, OSHA, and the UFC (Uniform Fire Code)requirements for safely storing, containing, using,
which have been designed to protect people andtransferring, or handling these hazardous materials.
the environment from spills and leaks ofGet Expert Help for Necessary Supplies
hazardous materials. For instance, the EPA'sDetermine the amount and type of containment
Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amendedberms, spill pallets, and other spill containment
by the Clean Water Act, was developed toequipment that will be needed.
prevent the discharge of oils and oil relatedObtain All Needed Spill Containment Supplies
products from reaching navigable waters andImplement An Employee Training Program In
adjoining shore lines. Because of the numerousTheir Use
federal and state regulations, it is easy to becomeDevelop A Spill Prevention, Control, and
tangled in a confusing maze of rules.Countermeasure Plan (SPCC Plan)
A savvy way to learn how to comply with these- This act took effect in 1974 and was
regulations is to deal with them in small doses.strengthened in 2002. There are numerous federal
Start out by determining what regulations willregulations of the EPA, the DOT, the UFC, which
apply.affect storage methods, spill prevention, and spill
Evaluate Your Work Environment.cleanup. They all require employee training in Best
- What type of hazardous chemicals, fuels, oil orManagement Practices (BMP) in :
hazardous wastes are you dealing with?- Spill Prevention Measures
- What is the average quantity on hand?- Required Equipment for Spill Prevention and
- What is the maximum amount that will ever beControl
on the work site?- Spill Cleanup Methods
You have to plan to handle the maximum. The- Emergency Procedures
regulations require that you plan a containment- The Use Of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
system that has sufficient capacity to contain- Proper Methods of Disposal of Hazardous
10% of the volume of the containers or of theMaterials
largest container, whichever is greater. Containers- Good Housekeeping Practices
that do not hold free liquid do not need to be- Required Maintenance On Spill Prevention
considered.Equipment and Supplies
Determine What Regulations Affect the- Proper Record Keeping
Hazardous Materials at the Work SiteThe volume of regulatory material can be
For instance, don't get tangled in oil regulationsoverwhelming. Complete an evaluation first and
when you are dealing with corrosive chemicals.then start logically to sift out the requirements
Transfer stations need different methods ofthat apply to your work environment.