When is a SPCC plan required?
In the United States, the Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) plan is a crucial regulatory requirement for facilities that store, handle, or use oil. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates the implementation of SPCC plans to prevent oil spills and ensure that any spills that do occur are effectively contained and cleaned up. Understanding when a SPCC plan is required is essential for facility owners and operators to comply with federal regulations and protect the environment.
What is an SPCC plan?
An SPCC plan is a detailed document that outlines the procedures and measures a facility will take to prevent oil spills, control spills if they occur, and respond to spills in a timely and effective manner. The plan includes an assessment of the facility’s potential for oil spills, identification of containment and cleanup equipment, and training for employees on spill prevention and response.
When is a SPCC plan required?
A SPCC plan is required for facilities that meet the following criteria:
1. Store, handle, or use oil in quantities equal to or greater than 1,320 gallons (or 42,000 pounds) above ground or 42,000 gallons (or 280,000 pounds) underground.
2. Have an area of 1,000 square feet or more where oil is stored, handled, or used.
3. Have an area of 42,000 square feet or more where oil is stored, handled, or used, regardless of the quantity of oil.
Facilities that fall into any of these categories must develop and implement an SPCC plan within 60 days of the date they meet the criteria. Failure to comply with this requirement can result in significant fines and penalties from the EPA.
Who must have an SPCC plan?
In addition to facilities that meet the above criteria, certain types of facilities are automatically required to have an SPCC plan, regardless of the amount of oil they store, handle, or use. These include:
1. Terminals that handle oil by pipeline.
2. Facilities that transfer oil by pipeline.
3. Facilities that produce oil.
4. Facilities that process oil.
5. Facilities that store oil in containers.
Conclusion
Understanding when a SPCC plan is required is vital for facility owners and operators to ensure compliance with federal regulations and protect the environment. By assessing their facility’s oil storage, handling, and use, facility owners can determine if an SPCC plan is necessary and take the appropriate steps to develop and implement the plan to prevent oil spills and respond effectively when they do occur.
