Articles
SPCC Plan: Who needs one, and why?
October 5, 2024
An SPCC (Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure) Plan is a crucial document required by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to prevent oil spills from reaching navigable waters and adjoining shorelines. This plan is mandated under the Oil Pollution Prevention regulation, specifically in Title 40, Part 112 of the Code of Federal Regulations (40 CFR 112)[1].
Who needs an SPCC Plan?
Facilities that meet the following criteria are required to develop and implement an SPCC Plan:
1. Store, transfer, use, or consume oil or oil products
2. Have an aggregate aboveground oil storage capacity greater than 1,320 U.S. gallons or a completely buried storage capacity greater than 42,000 U.S. gallons
3. Could reasonably be expected to discharge oil to navigable waters or adjoining shorelines[1][2]
It's important to note that the 1,320-gallon threshold applies to containers with a capacity of 55 gallons or more[5].
Why is an SPCC Plan needed?
The primary purpose of an SPCC Plan is to prevent oil spills, which can have significant impacts on human health, the environment, and the economy. These plans help facilities:
1. Prevent oil discharges
2. Prepare for potential spills
3. Respond quickly and effectively if a spill occurs[4]
Key components of an SPCC Plan
An SPCC Plan typically includes:
1. Facility diagram and description
2. Oil handling operations
3. Spill prevention practices
4. Discharge or drainage controls
5. Personnel, equipment, and resources for spill response
6. Emergency procedures and contact information[2]
Self-Certification
In certain cases, facility owners or operators can self-certify their SPCC Plans instead of having them reviewed and certified by a Professional Engineer (PE). Self-certification is allowed when:
1. The facility has a total aboveground oil storage capacity of 10,000 gallons or less
2. The facility has not had a single discharge exceeding 1,000 gallons or two discharges each exceeding 42 gallons within any 12-month period in the three years prior to the SPCC Plan certification date[5]
Regulatory requirements and compliance
The SPCC rule requires facilities to:
1. Develop and implement an SPCC Plan
2. Review and update the plan at least every five years
3. Conduct regular inspections and tests
4. Provide training for oil-handling personnel
5. Maintain records of inspections, tests, and training[1][4]
Importance of SPCC Plans
SPCC Plans are critical for several reasons:
1. Environmental Protection: They help prevent oil from contaminating water resources and damaging ecosystems.
2. Regulatory Compliance: Facilities can avoid hefty fines and penalties by adhering to EPA regulations.
3. Cost Savings: Preventing spills is typically less expensive than cleaning them up and dealing with potential liabilities.
4. Emergency Preparedness: SPCC Plans ensure that facilities are ready to respond quickly and effectively to oil spills[2][4].
SPCC Plans are essential tools for facilities handling oil and oil products. They not only ensure compliance with federal regulations but also protect the environment, save costs, and prepare facilities for potential emergencies. Whether self-certified or professionally reviewed, these plans play a crucial role in responsible oil management and spill prevention.
Citations:
[1] https://www.epa.gov/oil-spills-prevention-and-preparedness-regulations/spill-prevention-control-and-countermeasure-19
[2] https://www.environmentalworks.com/what-is-an-spcc-plan/
[3] https://dec.vermont.gov/sites/dec/files/ead/documents/FactSheets/Factsheet_SPCCRegs.pdf
[4] https://www.apsu.edu/health-safety/spill-prevention-control-and-countermeasures-spcc.php
[5] https://www.fws.gov/policy-library/561fw17
[6] https://www.swca.com/news/2016/09/an-ounce-of-prevention-swppp-and-spcc-plans-explained
[7] https://www.agc.org/sites/default/files/Files/Energy%20&%20Environment%20(public)/SPCC_0.pdf
[8] https://www.rmagreen.com/rma-blog/what-is-an-spcc-plan