Petroleum Bulk Storage Compliance Issues within Transportation Agencies Nationwide
Focus Area
Construction and Maintenance Practices
Subcommittee
Environmental Process, Natural Resources
Status
Archived
Cost
$100k-$249k
Timeframe
1-2 years
Research Idea Scope
Petroleum Bulk Storage (PBS) is a necessary component of every State DOT’s operations. DOTs maintain large fleets of vehicles and equipment that must be fueled and maintained. However, the regulatory requirements for storing of fuels and other petroleum products also place considerable demands on DOTs. PBS regulations require extensive commitments in both monetary and personnel resources. Penalties for failing to comply with PBS regulations can be extremely costly. The environmental consequences of non-compliance, or even accidental releases at compliant facilities, can place an undue strain on both fiscal and natural resources. Eliminating PBS storage and switching to the use of privately-owned facilities can eliminate liability, but can add problems such as limited fuel supplies and limited access to refueling facilities. Also, some DOTs provide fuel for other government agencies, which is a pivotal role in the state’s emergency management structure. For the purpose of this study, State DOT’s across the
Urgency and Payoff
State DOTs, as well as other public entities that must store fuel to support their primary activities, will benefit from knowing what challenges other agencies are facing and how they are dealing with those challenges. It will also be beneficial for agencies to see how the regulatory structures of each state work, enabling them to propose regulatory changes in their states in instances where change is needed.
Submitted
05/14/2008