PSTIF Will Not Insure Incompatible Tanks After 2018

As part of the 2017 Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) Underground Storage Tanks (USTs) rule changes, UST system operators must demonstrate that they are using equipment or components approved for use with the regulated substance stored. If improper equipment or components are used, this incompatibility can lead to releases of stored substances from the UST system. As such, the Missouri Petroleum Storage Tank Insurance Fund (PSTIF) will not provide pollution liability insurance to owners and operators of incompatible UST systems after 2018. This coverage is necessary to satisfy state and federal financial responsibility requirements, which necessitate that owners/operators have the funds to pay for cleanups and other damages caused by a release from their storage tank system. To learn more, please scroll down.

PSTIF Will Not Insure Incompatible Tanks After 2018

What is compatibility?

In reference to storage tank systems, compatibility refers to the ability of two or more substances to maintain their respective properties (both physical and chemical) when in contact. Your storage tank system’s lining (or material) must be compatible with the regulated substance it stores.

Compatibility is a concern when USTs and aboveground storage tanks store substances containing ethanol and biodiesel. If your tank switches to housing a regulated substance with greater than 10 percent ethanol or greater than 20 percent biodiesel, you must notify the MoDNR and demonstrate that your equipment is compatible with the substance. In addition, for as long as you store that substance, you must maintain records that prove your compliance.

How do I know if my tank is incompatible?

Essentially, this new rule affects tanks that store ethanol-containing products without the right kind of lining. This is a big concern in Missouri, because nearly all gasoline sold in the Show-Me State contains at least some ethanol, and fiberglass tanks manufactured prior to 1981 are not compatible with substances containing ethanol.

Your storage tank system must be composed of or lined with a material that is compatible with the stored substance while retaining its functionality. In addition, you must maintain documentation of your compliance with this rule. New fuels with different chemical properties enter the market each year. If your storage tank will house one of these new fuels, you must check that your system is compatible with it.

If you’re unsure of your tank system’s compatibility, you may contact the MoDNR or PSTIF for additional information.

What can I do if my tank is incompatible?

If your tank is currently incompatible, you must either (1) have the tank lined to make it compatible and send documentation to MoDNR and PSTIF or (2) remove and replace the incompatible tank and piping. If you choose the second route, you must remove 50 percent or more of the current piping and install other piping (excluding connectors) connected to a single tank. If your tank includes multiple piping runs, you must do this for each run.

When do I need to address my tank’s incompatibility?

You must address your tank’s incompatibility prior to your 2019 insurance renewal. If you do not address the problem and your tank remains incompatible, PSTIF will not insure your tank after 2018. In addition, complying with this regulatory requirement will prevent the risks that arise when equipment is not compatible with the product it stores, such as releases to the environment from equipment failure.

If you need help with this new regulation, contact Environmental Works, a full-service environmental consulting and contracting firm. We can help you address your tank’s incompatibility by lining or replacing your tank and sending documentation to PSTIF. To learn more about our services, please give us a call at 877-827-9500 or contact us online.