N.Y.C. Admin. Code § FC 2308: Section FC 2308: Compressed Natural Gas Motor Fuel-Dispensing Facilities

2308.1 General.

CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be designed, installed, operated and maintained in accordance with NFPA 52 except as otherwise specified in this section and FC 2301.

2308.1.1 Prohibitions.

It shall be unlawful to:

1. Operate a self-service marine CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility.

2. Fill a portable container, other than permanently mounted fuel containers on CNG-powered vehicles, except outdoors at a utility-operated facility.

2308.1.2 Supervision of dispensing operations.

The dispensing of CNG at CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be supervised by a certified attendant as set forth in FC 2301.7.

2308.1.3 Maintenance.

Maintenance of CNG motor fuel-dispensing systems shall be conducted under the personal supervision of a person holding a CNG fueling facility maintenance certificate of fitness.

2308.1.4 Lighting.

Dispensing areas shall be well lighted whenever dispensing is being conducted.

2308.1.5 Dispensing area signage.

Durable signs shall be conspicuously posted in dispensing areas in CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities in compliance with the requirements of FC 2308.1.5.1 through 2308.1.5.3.

2308.1.5.1 Operating instructions.

A sign setting forth dispenser operating instructions shall be posted on every dispenser. Such sign shall also indicate the location of the emergency shutdown switches required by FC 2308.7.

2308.1.5.2 CNG dispensing warning sign.

A warning sign that reads as follows shall be posted on or immediately adjacent to each dispenser:

1. No smoking.

2. Shut off engine.

2308.1.5.3 Emergency procedures.

A sign setting forth emergency procedures that reads as follows shall be posted in the dispensing area, or other location designated in this section:

IN CASE OF FIRE, LEAK OR EMERGENCY:

ACTIVATE EMERGENCY CNG SHUTDOWN

DIRECT VEHICLE OCCUPANTS TO EXIT VEHICLES AND LEAVE AREA IMMEDIATELY

KEEP ALL PERSONS AWAY FROM THE AREA.

NOTIFY THE FIRE DEPARTMENT (CALL 911)

(FACILITY ADDRESS) (indicate address, with cross-street reference

).

2308.1.6 Emergency telephone.

A telephone not requiring a coin to operate or another approved, clearly identified means to notify the department, shall be provided at the facility in an approved location.

2308.1.7 Electrical equipment.

Electrical wiring and equipment shall be suitable for the location in which they are installed and shall be in accordance with FC 605, NFPA 52 and the Electrical Code.

2308.1.8 Audible and visible alarms.

All audible and visible alarms required by this section shall actuate at a supervised location on the premises that assures immediate response.

2308.1.9 Smoking and open flames.

It shall be unlawful to smoke or use or maintain an open flame in any area where CNG motor fuel is compressed, stored or dispensed.

Exception: Welding, cutting or similar hot work may be conducted for emergency repair, alteration or installation work, providing that all necessary safety precautions are taken, and all required department permits and authorization from the holder of a certificate of fitness for CNG station maintenance have been obtained.

2308.1.10 Records of incidents.

Records shall be kept of all incidents including fire, leak, device, equipment or system failure, out-of-service fire protection, alarm, or safety system, and of all equipment maintenance. Such records shall be kept in a bound log book or other recordkeeping approved by the department, maintained on the premises for a minimum of 4 years.

2308.1.11 Self-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities.

Self-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be designed, installed, operated and maintained in compliance with the requirements of FC 2308.1.11.1 through 2308.1.11.5.

2308.1.11.1 Duties of certified attendant.

The certified attendant's primary function shall be to supervise, observe and monitor the dispensing of CNG. The certified attendant shall prevent the dispensing of CNG into portable containers, control sources of ignition, take immediate action upon a fire, leak or other emergency and be ready to use a portable fire extinguisher. Nothing in this section shall be construed to prohibit a certified attendant from engaging in activities directly related to the sale of CNG motor fuel, such as the collection of money or processing of credit cards.

2308.1.11.2 Self-service dispensers.

Approved self-service devices, equipment and systems such as, but not limited to, card-operated and remote-preset types, are allowed at CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities. The certified attendant shall set the dispensing devices in the "off" position when not in use if such dispensing device can be activated without the certified attendant's knowledge.

2308.1.11.3 Monitoring of dispensing.

A control booth shall be located on the premises of every self-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility. The control booth shall be an interior or exterior enclosure to which the public has no access. The certified attendant shall be present within the control booth while dispensing operations are conducted. The control booth shall be designed and located so that the certified attendant stationed therein shall have a full, unobstructed clear view of dispensing operations, except that mirrors and/or an approved closed-circuit television installation may be provided to afford the certified attendant a clear view of dispensing operations when the view from the control booth is partially or temporarily obstructed. For purposes of this section, the "clear" view provided by a closed-circuit television installation shall mean that the image on the monitor shall be of such brightness and resolution as to allow ready identification of individuals and easy observation of activities at all times of day. Audible and visible alarms required by this section shall actuate within the control booth. A properly labeled manual switch that activates the emergency shut down device shall be located within the control booth. A console that controls the self-service CNG motor fuel dispensers shall be provided within the control booth and within 5 feet (1524 mm) of the emergency shutdown device manual switch.

2308.1.11.4 Two-way voice communication.

A two-way voice communication system shall be installed to provide contact between the control booth and each dispensing island.

2308.1.11.5 Signage.

The signage required by FC 2308.1.5 shall be posted in the dispensing area of a self-service motor fuel-dispensing facility, except that the emergency procedures sign required by FC 2308.1.5.3 shall be posted in the control booth.

2308.1.12 Fleet CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities.

Fleet CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be designed, installed, operated and maintained in compliance with the requirements of FC 2308.1.12.1 through 2308.1.12.3.

2308.1.12.1 Inspection of dispensing areas.

The certified attendant responsible for supervision of the dispensing of CNG at a fleet motor fuel-dispensing facility shall inspect the dispensing area on a periodic basis in accordance with the rules to ensure that the facility is being maintained in accordance with this chapter and the rules. The certified attendant shall notify the owner and make any other notifications required by this code if there is any evidence that the facility is not in good working order. A record of such inspections and notifications shall be maintained at the premises in accordance with FC 107.7.

2308.1.12.2 Duties of fleet personnel.

Employees or other persons working for the owner of a fleet CNG fuel-dispensing facility whose duties involve the dispensing of CNG shall be trained and knowledgeable in such dispensing in compliance with the requirements of this code and the rules.

2308.1.12.3 Quantity limits.

Dispensing equipment used at fleet CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be programmed or set to limit uninterrupted CNG delivery to an approved amount and require a manual action to resume delivery.

2308.1.13 Full-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities.

Full-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be operated and maintained in compliance with the requirements of FC 2308.1.13.1.

2308.1.13.1 Duties of certified attendant.

The certified attendant at a full-service CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility shall personally supervise the dispensing of motor fuel into vehicles by facility personnel. The certified attendant shall conduct a visual inspection of the dispensing area on a daily basis to monitor the condition of such installation. The certificate of fitness holder shall notify the owner and make any other notifications required by this code if there is any evidence that the installation is not in good working order. A record of such inspections and notifications shall be maintained at the premises in accordance with FC 107.7.

2308.2 Design, installation and testing requirements.

Devices, equipment and systems used for the compression, storage and dispensing of CNG shall be designed, approved, listed and/or tested in accordance with FC 2308.2.1 through 2308.2.7.

2308.2.1 Approved equipment.

Containers, vessels, compressors, pressure regulators, pressure relief valves and other pressure relief devices and piping used for CNG shall be approved.

2308.2.2 Listed equipment.

Hoses, hose connections, dispensers, gas detection systems and electrical equipment used for CNG shall be listed. Vehicle-fueling connections shall be listed and labeled.

2308.2.3 Vehicle fueling hose.

Vehicle fueling hose shall be compatible with CNG and shall withstand a pressure of at least four times the service pressure. Hoses shall be of retractable design and shall be protected against physical damage. Hoses shall be tested for leaks with a noncorrosive solution or equivalent leak detection method at least annually by a certified attendant and shall be replaced if damaged. Records of required inspections and testing shall be kept in a bound log book or other approved recordkeeping, maintained on the premises for a minimum of 4 years.

2308.2.4 Initial container testing.

Prior to placing containers and pressure vessels in CNG service, evidence of container and pressure vessel pressure tests shall be submitted to the department demonstrating compliance with the requirements of NFPA 52.

2308.2.5 Gas piping.

All CNG system gas piping shall be tested by a qualified person in accordance with NFPA 52 at the owner's risk and before a representative of the department prior to placing the system in service. Required tests shall begin at the downstream side of the remote manual shutdown valve.

2308.2.6 Filters and dryers.

Filters and dryers used at CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be rated for the service and pressure intended and shall be tested in accordance with the gas piping test requirements set forth in FC 2308.2.5.

2308.2.7 Safety devices.

Upon installation, all automatic safety devices intended to cause equipment shutdown shall be tested at the owner's risk by his or her representative before a representative of the department.

2308.3 Location of dispensing operations and equipment.

CNG motor fuel-dispensing facilities shall be located at a site operated by a natural gas utility, or other approved location.

2308.3.1 Location on property.

In addition to the requirements of FC 2303.1 and NFPA 52, compression, storage and dispensing devices, equipment and systems shall be installed as follows:

1. Aboveground, and not beneath power lines.

2. At least 10 feet (3048 mm) from the nearest building, lot line, public street, private road, sidewalk, or source of ignition.

Exception: Dispensing equipment need not be separated from canopies that are constructed in accordance with the construction codes, including the Building Code,

and which provide weather protection for the dispensing equipment.

3. At least 25 feet (7620 mm) from the nearest rail of any railroad track and 50 feet (15240 mm) or more from the nearest rail of any railroad main track or any railroad or transit line where power for train propulsion is provided by an outside electrical source such as third rail or overhead catenary.

4. At least 50 feet (15 240 mm) from the vertical plane below the nearest overhead wire of a trolley bus line.

2308.3.2 Rooftop operations.

Rooftop dispensing shall be in accordance with FC 2308.3.2.1 through 2308.3.2.3.

2308.3.2.1 Roof construction.

The roof of the building or structure shall be of noncombustible construction.

2308.3.2.2 Compressor and discharge piping.

The compressor shall be located on the roof and the discharge piping shall not enter the building or structure.

2308.3.2.3 Height.

The building or structure shall be 75 feet (22 860 mm) or less in height.

2308.4 Reserved.

2308.5 Pressure regulators.

Pressure regulators shall be designed and installed or protected so that their operation will not be affected by the elements (freezing rain, sleet, snow or ice), mud or debris. The protection is allowed to be an integral part of the regulator.

2308.6 Manual valves.

Gas supply piping to equipment shall be provided with a remote, readily accessible manual shutoff valve of the fast-closing, quarter-turn type. Manual valves shall be located so as to minimize the risk of physical damage and minimize being rendered inoperable as a result of freezing.

2308.6.1 Location.

Manual valves shall be located within the boundary of the facility and as follows:

1. Not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from the compressor for compressors rated for 300 standard cubic feet per minute (8.5 m

3

/min) or less.

2. Not less than 75 feet (22 860 mm) from the compressor for compressors rated for greater than 300 standard cubic feet per minute (8.5 m

3

/min).

2308.7 Emergency shutdown switches.

An approved, clearly identified and readily accessible emergency shutdown switch shall be provided at an approved location. The switch, upon activation, shall automatically and immediately shut off the power supply to the compressor and close valves between the gas supply and the compressor and between the storage tanks and the dispensers. Such emergency shutdown switches for outdoor CNG dispensers shall be located within 75 feet (22 860 mm) of, but not less than 25 feet (7620 mm) from, the fuel dispensers. For interior fuel-dispensing operations, such emergency shutdown switches shall be installed at an approved location. An additional automatic emergency shutdown switch shall be provided in the compressor area for both indoor and outdoor compressors. An approved sign shall be posted on or immediately adjacent to such switches and shall read: EMERGENCY CNG SHUTOFF. Such emergency shutdown switch shall be of a type that is manually resettable.

2308.7.1 Compressor shutdown devices.

Each compressor shall be equipped with an automatic shutdown device that will shut down the compressor in the event of low suction pressure, high suction pressure, high motor temperature, high discharge pressure or high discharge temperature.

2308.7.2 Gas detection system.

Indoor compressing, storage and dispensing areas shall be provided with a combustible gas detection alarm system meeting the standards of the construction codes, including the Building Code. Such system shall activate a local audible and visible alarm at 20 percent of the LEL and automatically shut off gas supply at 50 percent of the LEL, with simultaneous transmission of an alarm to the department by an approved central station company. The automatic shutoff valve shall be located upstream from the confined high-pressure piping and shall be installed underground or otherwise protected from exposure to fire in an approved manner.

2308.7.3 Heat detection system.

Indoor compressing, storage and dispensing areas shall be provided with a closed-circuit heat detection system utilizing approved heat detection devices and equipment designed to automatically activate a local audible and visible alarm with simultaneous transmission to an approved central station, activate a fire extinguishing system over the area or enclosure, and shut off the gas supply to the compressor and dispenser. The automatic shutoff valve shall be installed underground or be otherwise protected from exposure to fire in an approved manner.

2308.7.3.1 Outdoor heat detection system.

Outdoor compressing, storage and dispensing shall be provided with a closed-circuit heat detection system designed utilizing approved heat detection devices and equipment designed to automatically activate a local audible and visible alarm and shut off the gas supply to the compressor and dispenser. The automatic shutoff valve shall be installed underground or otherwise protected from exposure to fire in an approved manner.

2308.7.3.2. Outdoor storage exceeding 35,000 SCF (991.1 m3).

For outdoor CNG storage exceeding 35,000 SCF (991.1 m

3

) located within 25 feet (7620 mm) of a building or structure, activation of the heat detection system shall simultaneously transmit an alarm to an approved central station.

2308.7.4 Fire extinguishing systems and appliances.

Indoor compressing, storage and dispensing areas shall be protected throughout by a fire extinguishing system.

2308.7.4.1 Fire extinguishing system periodic testing.

A performance test of the non-water fire extinguishing system and the dispensing facility emergency shutdown system shall be conducted at least once every 5 years. The test shall be conducted at the owner's risk by his or her representative before a representative of the department.

2308.7.4.2 Portable fire extinguishers.

Portable fire extinguishers shall be provided adjacent to the CNG motor fuel-dispensing facility in the number and size specified by NFPA 52 and FC 906.

2308.8 Discharge of CNG from motor vehicle fuel storage containers.

The discharge of CNG from motor vehicle fuel containers for the purposes of maintenance, container certification, calibration of dispensers or other activities shall be in accordance with FC 2308.8.1 through 2308.8.1.2.

2308.8.1 Methods of discharge.

The discharge of CNG from motor vehicle fuel containers shall be accomplished through a closed transfer system in accordance with FC 2308.8.1.1 or an approved method of atmospheric venting in accordance with FC 2308.8.1.2.

2308.8.1.1 Closed transfer system.

Documentation of the procedure for discharging the container shall be provided to the commissioner for approval. The procedure shall include the 

actions the operator will take in the event of a low-pressure or high-pressure natural gas release during the discharging activity. A schematic design document illustrating the arrangement of piping, regulators and equipment settings, and their relation to the location of the compressor, storage vessels and emergency shutdown devices, shall be provided to the commissioner for approval.

2308.8.1.2 Atmospheric venting.

Atmospheric venting of CNG shall comply with the requirements of FC 2308.8.1.2.1 through 2308.8.1.2.6.

2308.8.1.2.1 Plans and specifications.

A schematic design document illustrating the location of the vessel support, piping, the method of grounding and bonding, and other requirements specified herein or requested by the department shall be provided to the commissioner for approval.

2308.8.1.2.2 Container stability.

A method of rigidly supporting the container during the venting of CNG shall be provided. The selected method shall provide not less than two points of support and shall prevent the horizontal and lateral movement of the container. The system shall be designed to prevent the movement of the container based on the highest gas-release velocity through valve orifices at the container's rated pressure and volume. The structure or appurtenance shall be constructed of noncombustible materials.

2308.8.1.2.3 Separation.

The structure or appurtenance used for stabilizing the container shall be separated from other equipment or features as set forth in FC Table 2308.8.1.2.3.

FC Table 2308.8.1.2.3 Separation Distance for Atmospheric Venting of CNG

Equipment or Feature

Minimum Separation (feet)

Buildings

25

Building openings

25

Lot lines

15

Public street or private roads

15

Vehicles

25

CNG compressor and storage containers

25

CNG dispensers

25

For SI: 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

2308.8.1.2.4 Grounding and bonding.

The structure or appurtenance used for supporting the container shall be grounded in accordance with the Electrical Code. The container valve shall be bonded prior to the commencement of venting operations.

2308.8.1.2.5 Vent tube.

A vent tube that will divert the gas flow to the atmosphere shall be installed on the container prior to commencement of the venting and purging operation. The vent tube shall be constructed of pipe or tubing materials approved for use with CNG in accordance with FC Chapter 53. The vent tube shall be capable of dispersing the gas a minimum of 10 feet (3048 mm) above grade level. The vent tube shall not be provided with a rain cap or other feature that would limit or obstruct the gas flow. At the connection fitting of the vent tube and the CNG container, a listed bi-directional detonation flame arrester shall be provided.

2308.8.1.2.6 Signage.

Approved "No Smoking" signs complying with the requirements of FC 310 shall be conspicuously posted within 10 feet (3048 mm) of the container support structure or appurtenance. Approved CONTAINER SHALL BE BONDED signs shall be posted on the container support structure or appurtenance.

2308.9 Residential and other vehicle fueling appliance facilities.

The compressing and dispensing of CNG by a vehicle fueling appliance shall be in accordance with FC 2308.9.1 through 2308.9.4.

2308.9.1 Residential fueling appliance facilities.

The compressing and dispensing of CNG at a residential fueling appliance facility shall be in accordance with NFPA 52 and this chapter, except that such facilities shall be exempt from the requirements of FC 2308.3.1(2) with regard to the distance to the nearest building, and FC 2308.7 through 2308.7.4.

2308.9.2 Nonresidential fueling appliance facilities.

The compressing and dispensing of CNG at a nonresidential fueling appliance facility shall be in accordance with NFPA 52 and this chapter, except that such facilities shall be exempt from FC 2308.3.1(2) with regard to the distance to the nearest building, and FC 2308.7 through 2308.7.4.

2308.9.3 Prohibitions.

It shall be unlawful to:

1. Fill or store any containers, other than permanently mounted fuel containers on CNG-powered vehicles.

2. Compress and dispense CNG indoors.

2308.9.4 Supervision.

The operation of a vehicle fueling appliance facility shall be under the personal supervision of a certified attendant.

2308.10 Mobile CNG motor fuel compression, storage and dispensing.

A mobile CNG motor fuel compression, storage and/or dispensing system may be used to fuel vehicle-mounted containers as approved by the commissioner and subject to such conditions as the commissioner may prescribe consistent with public safety.