Update Technical Standards for Fuel Tanks

Summary#

This is a proposed change to the Regulations Amending the Storage Tank Systems for Petroleum Products and Allied Petroleum Products Regulations published on June 8, 2024. It would update the list of technical standards referenced in the regulations so that new tanks and tank components certified to current industry standards can be used without extra regulatory hurdles.

What it does#

• Updates the references in section 14 of the regulations to match the current titles of 48 technical standards.
• Replaces older standard titles (and removes the year from all listings) so a tank or component can comply if it is certified to the version “in effect at the time” it was manufactured.
• Moves many of the updated cross-references into a new Schedule 4 that maps parts of the CCME Code to the acceptable standards.
• Adds or recognizes harmonized standards (including some ANSI/CAN/UL/ULC standards) to ease cross-border certification.
• Does not change technical requirements for tanks, and the government says it will not add new costs or administrative burdens for regulated parties.

Who's affected#

• Primarily owners and operators of petroleum and allied petroleum storage tank systems under federal jurisdiction — that includes tanks on federal land, on Aboriginal land, and tanks that are part of federal works or undertakings (railways, ports, airports).
• The government says about 50% of these systems are managed by First Nations communities and small businesses on Aboriginal land; 15% are third-party operators on federal land; 5% by federal entities; and 30% are part of federal works or undertakings.
• Tank manufacturers, certification bodies, fuel retailers, and companies that install or service tanks will also notice the change because it affects which certified products are accepted.
• If it is unclear who is affected in a specific case, owners or operators should check whether their site falls under federal jurisdiction.

Why it matters#

• The proposal closes a practical gap: new tanks or parts that meet updated industry standards can be bought and used without running into a mismatch between what’s certified and what the regulations name.
• That should make it easier and quicker to buy compliant equipment and avoid extra paperwork or special approvals. The government says there would be no new costs for businesses.
• Harmonizing some standards with U.S. equivalents may make cross-border sourcing and certification simpler.
• This is a proposal, not final law. People can comment on it for 60 days after publication (starting June 8, 2024). The proposed amendments would come into force on the day they are registered if adopted.