When are vent alarms required for inside oil tanks?

Vent alarms are required for all No. 1 and No. 2 fuel oil tanks that are between 11 and 5,000 gallons in capacity to ensure safety and environmental protection. The purpose of these alarms is to notify users when the tank is approaching full capacity, which helps to prevent overfilling and potential spills.

The requirement for vent alarms is specifically linked to the size and type of fuel oil being stored, reflecting regulatory concerns about larger tanks that have a greater potential for impact if not monitored properly. Tanks under 11 gallons are too small to warrant this requirement, while tanks over 5,000 gallons may have different regulations applicable due to their capacity and potential environmental risks associated with their use.

By focusing on the specified range of tank sizes and types in residential and commercial settings, the regulation promotes careful monitoring of fuel oil supplies and underscores the importance of safety systems like vent alarms in handling large quantities of flammable liquids.