The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has finalized amendments to the Standards of Performance for Volatile Organic Liquid Storage Vessels, initially established for storage vessels built after July 23, 1984. These amendments now allow operators of storage vessels with external or internal floating roofs to optionally comply with the National Emission Standards for Storage Vessels (Tanks)—Control Level 2, which can reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions by preventing the need to empty and degas tanks for inspections. The rule is expected to save costs and decrease environmental impact without sacrificing inspection rigor. The final rule went into effect on January 19, 2021.
Simple Explanation
The EPA has made changes to rules about big storage tanks. Now, these tanks can use a different set of rules that help clean the air by keeping chemicals from sneaking out without having to open them up as often, saving money and helping the environment.