EPA Requirements for Underground Piping Leak Detection

EPA rules govern how to deal with underground pipe leaks.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has regulations regarding two types of piping most commonly used in underground storage tanks: suction piping and pressurized piping. The rules relate to managing various concerns, ranging from containing leaks at their origin to regulations covering secondary or related leaks, testing of pipe tightness and monitoring of the vapor in the pipes. Differences also exist between regulations for suction piping and pressurized piping. For example, pressurized piping requires an automatic line leak detector.

Suction Piping

Regulations for suction piping are quite extensive. A pipeline's tightness must be checked every three years to ensure proper leak deduction. You are also required to check vapor, interstitial, and groundwater or statistical inventory reconciliation monthly. The tightness test used to check the piping must be able to detect leaks as small as 0.1 gallon per hour.

Pressurized Piping

When using pressurized piping, the EPA mandates an automatic line leak detector as well as one other method of leak detection. The automatic line leak detector must consist of a system that restricts the flow automatically or shuts off the flow automatically when the destination is full, or has a continuous alarm system. The automatic leak detector should be able to detect leaks of the magnitude and force of 3 gallons an hour, and should be able to detect leaks as thin as 0.1 gallons an hour when the water is flowing at 150 percent of its normal operating pressure. For the second test, any method used must meet the same criteria as tests used for suction piping detection.

Secondary Containment

Secondary containment refers to regulations designed to contain a leak when it occurs. The basic requirements mandate that you place a barrier between the piping and the environment so that the leak is restricted. You also must install containment equipment with the help of qualified professionals, and place a manual or automatic monitor to check the presence of water in the piping.

References

• EPA.gov: Leaking Pipe Rules
• EPA.gov: Leak Detector