New Requirements for Propane Storage Tanks with a MAWP of 200 psig

On October 25, the BC Safety Authority (BCSA) issued Directive No.D-BP-2016-02: Propane Storage Tanks with a Maximum Allowable Working Pressure of 200 psig. This directive sets out the requirements that must be met for the continued operation of propane storage tanks that were manufactured with a maximum allowable operating pressure (MAWP) of 200 psig (1380 kPa).

Propane tanks that are within the scope of this directive include tanks that were manufactured with a MAWP of 200 psig in accordance with CSA B51 Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Pressure Piping Code (B51) and / or one of the following codes:

• Paragraphs U60 or U69 of the 1949 (or earlier) edition of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII Division 1; or
• Paragraphs U200 or U201 of the 1949 (or later) edition of the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII Division 1.

Owners of propane tanks are responsible to comply with the requirements of this directive no later than November 1, 2017. Propane tanks that do not comply with the requirements of this directive by November 1, 2017 are not acceptable for continued operation and shall be removed from operation no later than May 1, 2018.