Virginia Law

A. Owners and operators of UST systems must provide a method, or combination of methods, of release detection that:

1. Can detect a release from any portion of the tank and the connected underground piping that routinely contains product;

2. Is installed and calibrated in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, including routine maintenance and service checks for operability or running condition;

3. Beginning on January 1, 2021, is operated and maintained, and electronic and mechanical components are tested for proper operation, in accordance with one of the following: (i) manufacturer's instructions; (ii) a code of practice developed by a nationally recognized association or independent testing laboratory; or (iii) requirements determined by the department to be no less protective of human health and the environment than the two options listed in subdivisions 1 and 2 of this subsection. A test of the proper operation must be performed at least annually and, at a minimum, as applicable to the facility, cover the following components and criteria:

a. Automatic tank gauge and other controllers: test alarm; verify system configuration; test battery backup;

b. Probes and sensors: inspect for residual buildup; ensure floats move freely; ensure shaft is not damaged; ensure cables are free of kinks and breaks; test alarm operability and communication with controller;

c. Automatic line leak detector: test operation to meet criteria in subdivision 1 of 9VAC25-580-170 by simulating a leak;

d. Vacuum pumps and pressure gauges: ensure proper communication with sensors and controller; and

e. Handheld electronic sampling equipment associated with groundwater and vapor monitoring: ensure proper operation.

NOTE: The following code of practice may be used to comply with subdivision 3 of this subsection. Petroleum Equipment Institute Publication RP 1200, Recommended Practices for the Testing and Verification of Spill, Overfill, Leak Detection and Secondary Containment Equipment at UST Facilities.

4. Meets the performance requirements in 9VAC25-580-160 or 9VAC25-580-170 or Part X (9VAC25-580-380 et seq.) of this chapter as applicable with any performance claims and their manner of determination described in writing by the equipment manufacturer or installer. In addition, the methods listed in subdivisions 2, 3, 4, 8, and 9 of 9VAC25-580-160; subdivisions 1 and 2 of 9VAC25-580-170; and Part X must be capable of detecting the leak rate or quantity specified for that method in the corresponding section of the regulation with a probability of detection of 0.95 and a probability of false alarm of 0.05.

B. When a release detection method operated in accordance with the performance standards in 9VAC25-580-160, 9VAC25-580-170, or Part X of this chapter indicates a release may have occurred, owners and operators must notify the department in accordance with Part V (9VAC25-580-190 et seq.) of this chapter.

C. Any UST system that cannot apply a method of release detection that complies with the requirements of this part must complete the closure procedures in Part VII (9VAC25-580-310 et seq.) of this chapter. For previously deferred UST systems described in Parts I (9VAC25-580-10 et seq.) and X of this chapter, this requirement applies on or after the effective dates described in 9VAC25-580-20 A 1 b and c and 9VAC25-580-380 A 1.