Good News on Proposed SPCC (Fuel Spill) Compliance Changes

There is good news for marine fuel providers across the state - especially those that store more than 1320 gallons, "qualifying" them for mandatory federal SPCC (Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure) plans. These documents currently require certification by a Professional Engineer.

"The EPA is today (12/2/05) proposing to amend the … SPCC Plan requirements to reduce the regulatory burden for certain facilities by providing an option that would allow owners/operators of facilities that store less than 10,000 gallons of oil and meet other qualifying criteria to self-certify their SPCC Plans, in lieu of review and certification by a Professional Engineer In proposing these changes … EPA is significantly reducing the burden imposed on the regulated community in complying with the SPCC requirements, while maintaining protection of human health and the environment.

The guidance document is available to owners and operators of facilities that may be subject to the requirements of the SPCC rule and the general public on how EPA intends the SPCC rule to be implemented. The document is designed to provide a consistent national policy on several SPCC-related issues. See www.epa.gov/oilspill/guidance.htm.

The above information provided by NCPMA (North Carolina Petroleum Marketer Association).
For more information contact Tim Laughlin @ 919-782-4411.