310 CMR, § 80.32 - Requirements for Tank and Pipe/Line Tightness Testing

(1) Tank and piping/line tightness testing shall be capable of detecting a release or leakage of 0.1 gallon per hour, accounting for the effects of thermal expansion or contraction of regulated substance, vapor pockets, tank deformation, evaporation, condensation, and the location of the water table. The probability of detection shall be no less than 95% and the probability of a false alarm shall be no more than 5%.

(2) Owners or Operators of all UST systems shall meet the following tightness test and reporting requirements:

(a) A tank or pipe/line tightness test shall be performed by a certified UST system tightness tester using the appropriate test for the particular tank or piping/line.

(b) When a tightness test is performed, the Owner or Operator shall compile a report or log that shall include, but not be limited to, the following:

1. Date the test was performed;

2. Facility name and address;

3. Facility Owner name and address;

4. Identification of the tank or piping/line that was tested;

5. Reason for the test including, but not limited to, the date when the Owner and Operator first discovered the need for the test;

6. Type of tightness test equipment used for the test;

7. Name of the certified UST system tightness tester, his/her certificate number and expiration date, and the name of any persons assisting in the test;

8. Data sheets with test readings recorded;

9. Calculations pertaining to the test method and test results;

10. Location of monitoring or observation well, if used in test procedure;

11. Description of method used to measure the water table, if required, and the result; and

12. Signature of the certified UST system tightness tester attesting to the accuracy of the information of the test result in accordance with 310 CMR 80.11(2).

(c) The report or log prepared pursuant to 310 CMR 80.32(2)(b) shall be kept in accordance with 310 CMR 80.36.

(3) Tightness Test Failures.

(a) A tank or piping/line fails a tightness test when the test results indicate a release or leakage from the UST system that exceeds the detection standards at 310 CMR 80.32(1), as applicable.

(b) If the tank or piping/line fails a tightness test, the certified UST system tightness tester shall immediately, but in no event later than 24 hours after obtaining knowledge of the failed test notify the Owner and Operator and the fire department in the city or town in which the UST system is located.

(c) The Owner or Operator shall comply with 310 CMR 80.33, 80.38 and 80.39 and 310 CMR 40.0300: Notification of Releases and Threats of Release of Oil and Hazardous Materials; Identification and Listing of Oil and Hazardous Materials, as applicable.

Notes

310 CMR, § 80.32

Adopted by Mass Register Issue S1277, eff. 1/2/2015. Amended by Mass Register Issue 1453, eff. 10/1/2021.