9VAC25-580-170: Methods of release detection for piping

Owners and operators must obtain a permit and the required inspections in accordance with 9VAC25-580-50 or 9VAC25-580-60 for the installation of certain release detection equipment contained in subdivisions 1 through 3 of this section.

Each method of release detection for piping used to meet the requirements of 9VAC25-580-140 must be conducted in accordance with the following:

1. Automatic line leak detectors. Methods that alert the operator to the presence of a leak by restricting or shutting off the flow of regulated substances through piping or triggering an audible or visual alarm may be used only if they detect leaks of three gallons per hour at 10 pounds per square inch line pressure within one hour. An annual test of the operation of the leak detector must be conducted in accordance with subdivision A 3 c of 9VAC25-580-130.

2. Line tightness testing. A periodic test of piping may be conducted only if it can detect a 0.1 gallon per hour leak rate at one and one-half times the operating pressure.

3. Applicable tank methods. Except as described in subdivision 1 of 9VAC25-580-140, any of the methods in subdivisions 5 through 9 of 9VAC25-580-160 may be used if they are designed to detect a release from any portion of the underground piping that routinely contains regulated substances.