Odorant Tank Secondary Containment: Planning Factors

Jul 24, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Aug 12

Secondary containment can limit the spread of an odorant release when its capacity, materials, drainage, penetrations, weather exposure, and operating controls are suitable for the site. This article reviews planning factors; it does not determine regulatory applicability or containment design.

Understanding Secondary Containment

Secondary containment is a method used to enclose one or more storage tanks. Its purpose is to collect any odorant spill that may occur if the main tank loses its integrity or fails. This preventive measure is essential for maintaining safety and preventing environmental damage.

Why Consider Secondary Containment?

Including containment during initial design may reduce later modification work. Requirements vary by product, container, facility, jurisdiction, permits, and discharge pathway, so the responsible party should document the site-specific applicability and design basis.

Types of Secondary Containment

There are several types of secondary containment systems, including double-walled tanks and piping, lined earthen dikes, and concrete or metal enclosures. The choice of system depends on various factors, including the specific requirements of the installation and regulatory guidelines.

Outdoor Secondary Containment

Outdoor containment planning should address the applicable release volume, precipitation or snow allowance, controlled drainage, inspection access, penetrations, and disposal or testing requirements established for the site. Do not apply 40 CFR §264.193 as a universal odorant-tank rule; that provision addresses hazardous-waste tank systems. Use qualified environmental review, current product information, and applicable permits or requirements.

Burgess Pipeline Services can support a defined containment-planning, inspection, or field-documentation scope. The owner and responsible design or environmental professionals remain responsible for applicability, capacity, compatibility, drainage, and acceptance.

Project Support

Need help planning odorant handling, temporary containment, inspections, or operating records? Review BPS pipeline operations support for a project-specific scope.