Author: Ing. Euclides Quiñones, June 1, 2023.
Introduction
The safe and operational efficiency of terminals and storage tanks is essential to ensure the reliable and safe supply of liquid products globally. However, differences in existing rules and regulations can make it difficult to implement best practices and adopt uniform standards across the industry.
In this article, an analysis of the similarities and differences between standards and regulations in four key areas is carried out, with the aim of fostering the harmonization of standards and promoting the implementation of best practices.
Regulations and standards for terminals and storage tanks
regulations
Regulations in the field of terminals and storage tanks refer to the guidelines established by the competent authorities to regulate and control activities related to terminals and the storage of liquids in tanks, compliance with which is mandatory. These regulations aim to ensure safety, environmental protection, operational efficiency , cargo handling in these environments. risk management, periodic inspections and emergency procedures.
Because maritime regulations depend on specific local circumstances, the development of regulations of general application is not feasible.
The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is the main regulatory body for the shipping industry. This specialized agency of the United Nations for maritime transport establishes global rules that are then implemented by regional and national entities, who also control their application. Among them are the European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA), the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) of the United States, the Maritime Safety Administration of the People’s Republic of China (CMSA), among others.
Regulations
It is a set of rules applicable to a particular matter or activity. They are documents approved by recognized institutions, which provide, for common and repeated use, rules, guidelines or characteristics for products or processes and production methods and whose observance is not mandatory. It may also include terminology, symbols, charging, marking or labeling requirements applicable to a product, process or production method.
In the field of maritime terminals and tanks for liquid products, there are several important international standards that are applied to guarantee safety, environmental protection and efficiency in these facilities. Next, I will mention some of the most relevant regulations:
– SOLAS (International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea): The main objective of the SOLAS convention is to specify standards for the construction, equipment and operation of ships to guarantee their safety and that of the people on board. States that have adopted SOLAS are responsible for ensuring that ships under their flag comply with its requirements, through the appropriate surveys and issuance of the certificates established in the Convention as proof of such compliance.
– ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code): This code focuses on maritime security and protection against illegal acts in port facilities and maritime terminals. They establish security measures to prevent unauthorized access, hacking, smuggling, and other security-related risks.
– MARPOL (International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships): These standards focus on the protection of the marine environment. It regulates the emissions of atmospheric pollutants, the management of residues and hazardous waste, and the discharge of harmful liquid substances.
– OCIMF (Oil Companies International Marine Forum): The OCIMF is a Consultative member of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). It has developed a series of specific standards and guidelines for marine terminals and tankers for liquid products. These standards address aspects such as operational safety , vessel mooring, handling of cargo lines, safe transfer of oil and chemicals, and pollution prevention.
OCIMF focuses on promoting best practice in the design, construction and operation of tankers, barges and offshore vessels and their interfaces with onshore and offshore terminals. It also has inspection tools and programs used by ship owners, operators, managers and charterers around the world to improve the safety of their operations. This includes the Ship Inspection Reporting Program (SIRE 2.0), the Offshore Ship Inspection Database (OVID) and the Maritime Terminal Information System (MTIS).
– API (American Petroleum Institute): The API has established technical standards and recommended practices for the oil and gas industry , including storage facilities and marine terminals. These cover aspects such as the design, construction, alteration of storage tanks, inspection and maintenance procedures, safety requirements and quality standards.
Similarities and differences between regulations and standards:
In the field of terminals and tanks they can vary according to the context and the specific jurisdiction. Here are some general similarities and differences:
- Similarities:
– Common objective: Both regulations and standards have as their main objective to guarantee the safety , environmental protection and operational efficiency of Terminals and storage tanks . Both seek to establish standards and requirements to protect human life, the environment, and the assets involved.
– Harmonization: In one industry in constantly evolving , global standards and regulations ensure that best practices are consistently adopted throughout the industry , improving the safety and operational efficiency , reduce safety risks in personnel and the environment, cost control in the terminal industry and storage tanks . Some initiatives, such as the Global Terminal Operations Management (GTOM) of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), seek to develop common guidelines and standards for terminal management.
– Authority: Both regulations and standards are established and supervised by the competent authorities, which can be government agencies, port authorities, regulatory bodies or specific entities in charge of the management and supervision of port activities and liquid storage.
– Mandatory compliance: Both regulations and standards are mandatory compliance. Companies and operators involved in port and storage activities must comply with the requirements established in both to avoid sanctions and ensure a safe and sustainable environment.
- Differences:
– Scope and application: Regulations usually have a broader scope and cover multiple aspects, such as security , environment, port operational efficiency , among others. On the other hand, regulations can be more specific and focus on particular areas, such as the storage of dangerous chemicals, the handling of dangerous cargoes or fire prevention measures.
– Legal hierarchy: Regulations generally have a higher legal status and are supported by laws or decrees issued by the competent government authorities. On the other hand, regulations may be issued by specific organizations or entities without having the same legal status, although they may still be industry -enforceable.
– Flexibility and adaptability: Regulations tend to be more rigid and less flexible, since they are intended to establish general standards and requirements to be applied uniformly. Regulations can be more flexible and adapt to the specific needs of an industry , region or type of facility.
– Update process: Regulations usually require a formal process of modification and update, which may involve public consultations, impact analysis, legislative changes, among others. Regulations can be updated faster and more agilely to address technological changes, emerging risks, or new best practices.
– It is important to note that the specific similarities and differences may vary depending on the jurisdiction and the applicable regulatory framework in each case. Therefore, it is necessary to consult the specific regulations and standards of each country or region to obtain more precise and detailed information, it is also considered that the industry, It’s in constant evolution that require revisions and authorizations of the processes, so you should always work with updated documents.
Analysis of existing norms and regulations
- Operational security:
The rules and regulations on safety and operational efficiency aim to minimize risks and guarantee the protection of personnel, facilities and the environment. On a global level, a similarity is observed in the general requirements of risk management and security management systems in the industry . However, there are differences in terms of the extent of the specific requirements and the approaches used. Some regulations may require more detailed risk assessments, specific training for personnel and the implementation of more rigorous emergency procedures.
- Environmental Protection:
Environmental rules and regulations are intended to prevent pollution and minimize the environmental impact of terminal and storage tank operations. At a global level, there are international agreements and regional regulations that establish common requirements for spill prevention, waste management and emission monitoring. The differences lie in the limits and specific approaches adopted by each regulation. Some regulations may require more frequent testing and monitoring, while others may focus on specific geographic areas or types of substances.
- Design and construction:
The rules and regulations related to the design and construction of terminals and storage tanks establish technical requirements to guarantee the structural integrity and safety of the facilities. Although common principles and standards can be found around the world, there are differences in terms of national regulations, codes and standards adopted. These differences may include particular technical specifications, accepted materials, and maximum allowable load capacities.
- Inspection and maintenance:
The rules and regulations related to the inspection and maintenance of terminals and storage tanks focus on ensuring safety and structural integrity, early detection of potential failures, and implementation of appropriate maintenance programs. Fundamental principles of inspection and maintenance, such as visual inspections, non-destructive testing, and integrity testing, are recognized globally. However, differences arise in the requirements for frequency, scope, and specific test methods.
Conclusions
The similarities and differences between the rules and regulations applicable globally in the operation of terminals and storage tanks highlight the need to promote the harmonization of standards throughout the industry. While there are commonalities in existing regulations, the differences can pose challenges in implementing best practices at a global industry level. Collaboration between the different actors and the adoption of international standards are essential to facilitate harmonization and promote operational efficiency and a safer and more efficient operating environment in the global terminal and storage tank industry .
References
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