Draft - II OISD-STD-108 - 17.02.2023

OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE
तेल भंडारण व हैंडललंग
ओ आई एस डी - मानक - 108
OIL STORAGE AND HANDLING

OISD-STD-108
Inception July 1997

1st Revision xxxxx 2023
FOR RESTRICTED CIRULATION ONLY
OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE

Government of India
Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas
8th Floor, OIDB Bhavan, Plot No. 2, Sector – 73, Noida – 201301 (U.P.)
Website: https:// www.oisd.gov.in,Tele: 0120-2593833.
Page No. I
PREAMBLE
Page No. II
FOREWORD
Page No. III
NOTE
Page No. IV
2nd FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE

ON
OIL STORAGE & HANDLING
(2023)
Name Organization
Leader
Ratnakara Rao Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
Members
Gurdeep Singh Oberoi Engineers India Limited
Arshad Hussain Oil & Natural Gas Corporation
Bhavin Gandhi Reliance Industries Limited
Chetankumar Arvind Bhai Popat Nayara Energy Limited
Anil Kumar Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
Dhanjit Baishya Indian Oil Corporation Limited
Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals

Suresh Kumar J
Limited
Vikas Gupta Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
Santosh Basumatary Oil India Limited
Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals

Shankar N
Limited
Mahesh S Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited
Nilesh Jadhao Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited
Rajnish Vaid Oil Industry Safety Directorate
Vivek Prakash Singh Oil Industry Safety Directorate
Member Coordinator
Shathish Kumar S Oil Industry Safety Directorate

Page No. V
1st FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE

ON
RECOMMEDNED PRACTICES ON OIL STORAGE & HANDLING
(1997)
Name Organization
Leader
E.Nandakumar Cochin Refineries Limited, Cochin
Members
H.S.P.Rao Bharat Petroleum Corpn. Ltd. (R),

Mumbai
N.Rajkhowa Engineers India Limited, New Delhi
D.K.Agarwal Hindustan Petroleum Corpn. Ltd.

(R),Mumbai
I.Gore IBP Company Limited, Mumbai
P.R.Waghmare Indian Oil Corpn. Ltd. (M) , Mumbai
T.Jayakumar, Madras Refineries Limited, Madras
Member Coordinator
S.N.Mathur Oil Industry Safety Directorate

Page No. VI
MAJOR CHANGES IN REVISED EDITION
1. Scope:
Inclusions:
Crude oil exploration & production, central tank farm, group gathering stations, refineries, oil/ gas
processing plants and pipelines installations which are normally stored in above ground atmospheric
pressure or low-pressure storage tanks and underground tanks.
Exclusions:
• This standard does not cover the petroleum installations with aggregate storage capacity less
than 1000 KL.
• OISD-STD-244/ 235 shall be referred for Petroleum Depots, Terminals, and standalone crude
oil storage facilities.
• Inspection & Fire Protection facilities of storage tanks shall be referred with the respective OISD
standards.
2. Tank Capacity:
General definitions like refineries, crude oil exploration & production, central tank farm, group gathering
stations, refineries, oil/ gas processing plants and pipelines installations are explicitly described.
Instrumentation definitions like overfill level, safe fill level and normal fill level are explicitly described.
3. Design Consideration for Storage Tanks:
Monitoring & Control of Volatile Organic compounds emission for emission prevention from storage
tanks is added.
4. Tank Appurtenances:
Stairways, Handrails, Windgrider, Flame Arrester is added.
5. Instrumentation:
Tank Level Instruments is modified as per the latest errata in line with OISD-STD-152.
6. New Chapters on Ethanol Handling and Geodesic roof :
• Ethanol Handling – As per API 1626, Reaffirmed on May 2020.

• Geodesic Roof – As per API 650 (Appendix G), 13th edition, March 2020.
7. Tank Operation: (Completely restructured with salient additions)
• General Safety Precautions.

• Safety Precautions for roof entry.
• Emergency Procedures and planning.
• Training.
• Response time.
Page No. VII
8. Truck & Wagon Loading Gantries: (Completely restructured with salient additions)
• General Design Considerations for the layout of Tank truck & Tank Wagon Gantries.
• Safety Precautions during Tank Truck & Tank Wagon Loading/ Unloading Operations.
• Operating Procedures for Tank Truck& Tank Wagon Loading/ Unloading Operations.
9. Handling of Slop:
General stipulations for VOC from waste water/ effluent treatment plant is added as per OISD-GDN-
224.
10. Annexures:
• Annexure -1 Fill Level of Tanks.

• Annexure -2 Summary of actions to be taken for tank overfill protection.
• Annexure - 3: General safety check list during tank operations for crude, intermediate, product
& slop.
• Annexure - 4: General safety check list during blend header operations
• Annexure - 5: General safety checklist during product loading & unloading operations.
• Annexure - 6: General safety check list during tank truck loading & unloading operations.
• Annexure – 7: General safety check list during tank wagon loading & unloading operations.
Page No. VIII
Table of Contents
Sl.No Chapters Page No
1 Introduction 1
2 Scope 1
3 Definitions 1
4 Design Considerations for Storage Tanks 3
5 Design Considerations for Storage Tank farm/ Manifold 10
6 Tank Heaters/ Mixers 12
7 Ethanol Handling 13
8 Geodesic Roof Tanks 16
9 Tank Operation 19
10 Loading/ Unloading Facilities 22
11 Truck/ Wagon Loading Gantries 23
12 Handling of Slop 29
13 Abbreviations 31
14 References 33
15 Annexures
Annexure -1 Fill Level of Tanks 35

Annexure -2 Summary of actions to be taken for tank overfill
36
protection
Annexure - 3: General safety check list during tank operations for
37
crude, intermediate, product & slop
Annexure - 4: General safety check list during blend header
41
operations
Annexure - 5: General safety checklist during product loading &
42
unloading operations
Annexure - 6: General safety check list during tank truck loading &
43
Annexure – 7: General safety check list during tank wagon loading &
45
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Crude oil/ other feed stocks utilized in upstream and downstream plants are received and stored in
tanks to build up enough inventory prior to processing. This takes care of contingencies like delays in
crude/ other feed stocks receipt and avoids interruptions in crude oil processing. Tanks are also
provided to store intermediate products/ finished products. The finished products are transferred for
further distribution. Ultimately, distribution of petroleum products is done by wagons/ trucks/ pipeline/
tankers/ barges etc.
2.0 SCOPE
The present document is applicable to safety in the design philosophies and operating procedures
pertaining to storage and handling of crude oil & intermediate products/ finished petroleum products at
crude oil exploration & production, central tank farm, group gathering stations, refineries, oil/ gas
processing plants and pipelines installations which are normally stored in above ground atmospheric
pressure or low-pressure storage tanks and underground tanks.
This standard does not cover the petroleum installations with aggregate storage capacity less than
1000 KL.
OISD-STD-244/ 235 shall be referred for Petroleum Depots, Terminals, and standalone crude oil
storage facilities. Inspection & Fire Protection facilities of storage tanks shall be referred with the
respective OISD standards.
3.0 DEFINITIONS
3.1 Refineries:
Refineries are plants where crude oil is received and processed to produce various intermediates and
finished products.
3.2 Crude Oil Exploration & Production:
This refers to all upstream operational activities pertaining to oil & gas exploration, production
processing and transportation of hydrocarbons in onshore area.
3.3 Oil/ Gas Processing Plants:
A plant where crude oil/ natural gas is collected, processed in order to separate oil and gas and to
remove impurities (fractions like water, sulphur etc.) and to produce Oil/ LPG/ other petroleum fractions.
3.4 Pipeline Installations:
Pipeline Installations are those facilities on cross-country pipelines which have pumping and/ or terminal
stations with or without storage facilities.
3.5 Central Tank Farm (CTF):
It is a facility where petroleum is received and stored in bulk for further dispatch either by pipeline, rail
or road. The aggregate storage capacity of petroleum should be above 5000 KL for class A and B
petroleum products.
“OISD hereby expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility for loss or damage resulting from the use of
OISD Standards/ Guidelines.”
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 2
3.6 Group Gathering Stations:
An oil terminal where produced wells are connected through manifolds and well fluids are separated.
3.7 Slop:
Off-specification products obtained during plant start- up, shutdown or upset conditions and draining
etc. from various equipment/ tanks/ pumps containing oil-water mixture from process plants/ ETPs/
marketing/ pipeline installations are called slops.
Slops containing large quantity of free water are known as wet slop. When free water content is low
enough to process the slop in plant in a controlled manner it is known as dry slop.
3.8 Gantry:
In order to handle large number of wagons/ trucks for loading or unloading, facilities called gantries are
provided. These consist of loading/ unloading headers with loading/ unloading points with hoses/ arms,
walkways, railings, set stop ramping/ upramping down (opening in steps and closing in steps) automatic
cut-off valves, approach platforms, metering station, rail tracks etc.
3.9 Tanks:
Storage tanks are defined as "Atmospheric storage tank" and "Low pressure storage tank".
3.9.1 Atmospheric Storage Tank:
Tanks designed as per API-STD-650 or equivalent are called Atmospheric storage tank
These tanks can also be sub-divided into two categories:
• Atmospheric storage tanks with open vent to atmosphere i.e., goose neck type vent
• Atmospheric storage tanks with blanketing facilities
3.9.2 Low Pressure Storage Tank:
Tanks designed as per API-STD-620 or equivalent are called Low pressure storage tank. Products
having slightly higher vapour pressure are stored in these types of tanks.
3.10 Tank capacity
3.10.1 Nominal Capacity of a Tank
Nominal capacity shall mean the geometric volume of the tank from bottom plate up to Kerb angle in
case of fixed roof tanks and the underside of roof deck up to the maximum floating position of floating
roof in case of floating roof tanks.
3.10.2 Overfill Level
The maximum fill level of product within a tank as measured from the gauging reference point (i.e.,
striker/ Gauge plate) above which any additional product will overfill and spill out of the tank; or at which
level, contact or damage will occur between the floating roof and the tank structure or appurtenances.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 3
3.10.3 Safe fill level (Safe Capacity)
Safe Capacity (stored volume) is the capacity of the tank up to the maximum safe filling height (safe
filling level) of the tank as per PESO/ PNGRB/ Statutory requirements.
The safe fill level is established by determining the amount of time required to take the appropriate
action necessary to completely shut down or divert product flow before the level of product in the tank
reaches the overfill level. The safe fill level shall be established for each specific tank that will depend
on the type of tank, diameter, its internal configuration and condition, rate of filling and the operating
practices.
The safe fill level up to which the tank is allowed to receive product delivery after the normal fill level is
attained. The safe fill level is always below the overfill level.
3.10.4 Normal fill level (Normal Capacity)
The level up to which the tank is allowed to receive product at the maximum allowable receiving flow
rate for a predetermined time prior to reaching the safe fill level. The normal fill level is always below
the safe fill level.
(Refer Annexure -1 for pictorial representation of fill level of tanks)
3.11 Sick Wagon/ Trucks
Sick wagons/ trucks are those which are declared defective because of leaky bottom valve, missing
safety valve, leaking body, or any other mechanical failure.
3.12 Classification of Petroleum
Petroleum products are divided into three classes based on their flash points as follows:
Class A - Flammable liquids having flash point below 23oC.
Class B - Flammable liquids having flash point of 23oC and above but below 65oC.
Class C - Flammable liquids having flash point of 65oC and above but below 93oC.
Excluded - Liquids having flash point of 93oC and above.
4.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS FOR STORAGE TANKS
Refer OISD-STD-118 (Layouts for Oil & Gas Installations) for the design layout of storage tanks.
4.1 Roofs
Tanks are classified based on their roof design. Normally, atmospheric tanks are of fixed roof or cone
roof or dome roof, External floating roof, fixed cum floating roof (with or without Nitrogen blanketing)
tanks and low-pressure Nitrogen blanketed tanks.
4.1.1 Fixed Roof Tank
Fixed roof may be of cone type or dome shaped. The tank may be pressurized type with breather valves.
Alternatively, tanks may be provided with fuel gas or inert gas blanketing to prevent oxygen/moisture
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 4
ingress. For designing atmospheric/ low pressure tanks, API-STD-650 or API- STD-620 may be
followed as applicable.
4.1.2 External Floating Roof Tank
Floating roof may be single deck pontoon roof or double deck. For designing these tanks, API-STD-650
latest edition guidelines may be followed.
4.1.3 Internal Floating Roof Tank
These tanks have a fixed roof over a floating roof. They are used for products having very stringent
water content specifications like ATF and products sensitive to oxygen like light intermediate feed tanks,
where oxygen ingress is to be avoided, it is preferable to provide Nitrogen blanketing.
Refer OISD-STD-129 for the selection and requirement of floating roof tank seals.
4.2 Selection of Roof
Selection of type of roof generally depends on ambient conditions and the product handled. (Refer
Clause 8.1 of OISD-GDN-224 – Monitoring & Control of Volatile Organic compounds emission for
emission prevention from storage tanks)
4.3 Ambient Temperature
Ambient temperature statistics shall be taken for the past at least 15 years. Maximum average daily
temperature for four summer months for each year shall be considered.
4.4 Product Handled
Following guidelines should be used for specific cases:
• Tanks used to store finished ATF shall be in floating cum fixed roof to avoid entry of water into
product.
• Where degradation of product / unit feed stock quality is anticipated due to air/ moisture ingress
Fixed roof / IFRT should be provided with inert gas blanketing.
• Nitrogen blanketing for internal floating roof tanks/ fixed roof tanks should be considered for
storing hazardous petroleum products like benzene etc.
4.5 Tank Bottom
Tank bottoms may have conical shape or inverted cone shape, also known as "Apex down".
Tanks used to store finished Aviation Turbine Fuel should have bottoms coned downwards towards the
center with a sump of adequate size at the center of the tank bottom and a siphon drain. The outside of
pipe shall be epoxy coated. Suitable protective coating (such as epoxy coating) of tank bottom plate,
bottom shell course for ATF storage tank (Finished product tank), roof under side shall be provided to
avoid product contamination.
4.6 Location
Tanks may be above ground, on elevated ground or underground. In case of underground storage
tanks, protection to the external surfaces of fixed tanks/ pipes shall be provided by a glass or synthetic
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 5
fiber reinforced hot applied bitumen and by surrounding the heated tank with a backfill of selected sand.
This is preferred over solid skin of fine concrete through contraction or subsidence. Cathodic protection
should be provided where very high standard of protection is required due to soil condition/ geographic
location.
4.7 Corrosion Allowance
Corrosion allowance should be specified depending on the nature of petroleum products to be stored,
its impurities level, atmospheric conditions etc.
4.8 Tank Appurtenances
4.8.1 Stairways
Individual above ground vertical and horizontal tanks shall be provided with access to the tank top.
Vertical tanks should be provided with spiral stairways. Stairways should be made of grating or anti-
skid material. All staircases shall have resting/ landing platform preferably for every 5M height.
Stairways should be provided with the lighting facilities as per hazardous area classification. Refer API-
STD-650 (Table 5.18) latest edition for further requirements of stairways.
Stairways should be a width of minimum 1.2 M, treads of minimum 30 cm and rise of maximum of 15
cm is recommended.
4.8.2 Handrails
Handrails shall be provided on the outside of spiral stairways. For open top tanks, the inside of the
staircases shall also be provided with a handrail in the immediate vicinity of the top landing. Handrails
shall be provided on both sides of all walkways between tanks.
4.8.3 Walkway on the Roof
Walkway with handrail and toe guard should be provided on the fixed roof tank to facilitate inspection/
tank gauging/ sampling/ checking of vents/ flame arrestor etc. so that movement of personnel on roof
is safer. Refer API-STD-650 for further specifications.
4.8.4 Access ladder to the roof
Individual tank shall be provided with access ladder to the roof. A platform with railing should be
provided from the top of the stairway to gauge well and roof ladder.
Ladder for IFRT - The tank interior is considered a confined space environment with restricted access
(Refer API-RP-2026). The tank shall be supplied with a ladder for internal floating roof deck access.
The ladder shall be designed to allow for the full travel of the internal floating roof, regardless of any
settling of the roof supports.
Ladder for EFRT - The access ladder to the roof shall be equipped with self-leveling stair treads. The
rails shall be placed at such a height above the center deck that rain water on the deck cannot affect
movement of the ladder. The ladder wheel shall be provided with an anti-derailing device to prevent
uplift of the ladder during strong winds. The ladder shall be self levelling tread type rolling ladder with
suitable earthing/ bonding connection and the wheel of the ladder shall be non-sparking.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 6
4.8.5 Manholes
Number of manholes shall depend on diameter of the tank (Refer API-STD-650/ 620 for details).
Minimum of one flush type clean out manhole should be provided for tanks under dirty services.
4.8.6 Wind Girder
Tank shall be provided with wind girder (Top & Intermediate) in line with API-STD-650 based on tank
diameter to provide proper strength to the tank and ensure water draining is adequate to avoid external
corrosion.
4.9 Drains
4.9.1 Bottom Drains
Drains should be provided in all tanks for draining water and also for emptying out the tank for cleaning.
Besides, these are also useful for draining water after a hydro test or initial flushing during a start-up
operation. Number and details of the drains shall be as per the applicable tanks design standard.
Each drain line shall have minimum two isolation valves separated by spool piece and pipe shall be
extended beyond tank pad up-to drain point. One of such valves shall be of quick closing type. Ends of
each drain point should have provision of blind flange or capping arrangement. Apex down tank bottom
shall have one drain connection located at the lowest point near the center of the tank in addition to
normal circumferential drains.
4.9.2 Floating Roof Drains
Maximum rainfall rate on hourly basis for the past 15 years should be considered for designing the
number and size of drains for open floating roof tank. Also drains shall pass the design rainfall when
roof is resting at the lowest position. Primary roof drain system shall be closed type using articulated
pipe and swing joints/ flexible hose and shall include a suitable outlet valve. The inlet for these drains
shall have a swing type check valve to prevent product from flowing into roof if pipe drain leaks/ fails.
Depending on the size of the tank and amount of rainfall, adequate numbers of roof drains should be
installed. Roof drain shall be connected to CDS/ open to tank dyke pit which can be routed either to
OWS/ SWS/ Surface drains.
4.9.3 Emergency Roof Drain
Emergency drain for double deck (API-STD-650 does not permit emergency roof drain for single deck
roof, if it is provided the same shall be blinded and removed in the next available opportunity) floating
roof tank shall be provided on the roof to take care of drainage problem and drainage of total water in
case of plugging of normal roof drain as per API-STD-650 latest edition. It shall have water seal
arrangement to prevent oil spill on the roof. Siphon drains should be considered as per design
guidelines.
4.10 Dip Hatch
Dip hatch or gauge hatch is used for gauging the height of the liquid in a tank as well as to take out
samples for testing. Gauge hatch shall be non-sparking (or lined with non-sparking material) and self-
closing type. Storage tank having pressure while in normal operation may pose problem in sampling or
taking manual dip. For such tanks, it is suggested to resort to slot dipping device. This accessory permits
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 7
sampling/ dipping in tanks having pressure up to 300 MMWC. For operating pressure beyond this, it
may be necessary to provide appropriate instrumentation with redundancy.
Gauge well pipe (with slots) should be provided for all types of tanks. This should have continuous
contact by means of strips with bottom plate of the tank. Continuous contact makes the tank safer with
respect to static charge accumulation and acts as a support for the gauge well pipe.
4.11 Dip plate or Datum plate
A 6mm thick dip plate shall be provided for welding to the tank bottom or lowest shell course directly
under the dip fittings (i.e., dip hatch slot dipping devices and combined vent dip hatches)
4.12 Vents
4.12.1 Open Vents
Open vents shall be of goose neck type, covered with a 4 to 8 mesh screen. If open vents are selected
to provide venting capacity for tanks that can contain a flammable vapor space (preferably Class-A&B),
a flame-arresting device should be used. Open vents without a flame-arresting device shall be used for
tanks that do not contain a flammable vapor space. For sizing the vents API-STD-2000 latest edition is
to be referred. However, following are the basic guidelines need to be considered:
• Maximum and minimum ambient temperature.
• Vapour pressure of the product at operating/ design temperature.
• Maximum pumping in and out rate.

• Blending components likely to be handled in the tank.
4.12.2 Breather Valve
a. Breather valves shall be provided in the blanketed tanks designed as per API-STD-650. For low
pressure tanks breather valve required shall be provided as per API-STD-620. The tank breathes
in air when the tank pressure is lower than the atmospheric pressure and breathes out when tank
pressure is greater than the set pressure. PVRVs provided on cone roof tanks usually have 20%
accumulation. While designing, it is necessary to ensure that under full relieving conditions, the
design pressure/ vacuum in the tank is not exceeded. Set pressure of PVRV shall be decided
according to API-STD-520/ API-STD-2000.
b. Breather vents/ flame arrestors are known to fail through the formation of crystalline waxy/ heavy
hydrocarbon deposits or ice on the seats of valve diaphragms or inside the nozzle connection
upon which the valve is mounted. Breather vents/ flame arrestors are not recommended on these
services instead only open vents should be provided.
c. Where tanks are blanketed, breathing-in will be from the blanketing gas system. Necessary
control valve shall be provided on top of tank for supply of blanketing gas at constant pressure.
The tank shall be provided with a safety valve by way of lift disc/ diaphragm or any other suitable
device. Gauge hatch and other manholes shall be of gas tight construction.
4.13 Flame arrester
The term flame arrester describes a device or form of construction that will allow free passage of a gas
or gaseous mixture but will interrupt or prevent the passage of flame. It prevents the transmission of
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 8
flame through a flammable gas/ air mixture by quenching the flame on the high surface area provided
by an array of small passages through which the flame must pass. The emerging gases are cooled
enough to prevent ignition on the protected side. Effective and reliable arresting devices are designed
for many specific situations.
Following practices shall be adhered if flame arrestors are installed:
Narrow passages can clog with dust, scale, polymers or airborne debris. A rigorous maintenance
program is necessary to avoid vent plugging and the possibility of pressure or vacuum-related damage
to the tank roof. Flame arrestors shall be periodically inspected/ serviced so that the arrestor shall be
capable to prevent the flame in to the tank.
Refer API-RP-2210, Latest edition for the design and implementation of Flame arrestor on storage
tanks.
Pressure-vacuum valve is an acceptable alternative to a flame arrester under certain circumstances as

stipulated in API-STD-2000.
Protect atmospheric storage tanks against flame transmission from outside the tank if
• the stored liquid has a low flash point, i.e., less than 60 °C (140 °F) or in accordance with
the applicable regulations, whichever is higher; or
• the storage temperature can exceed the flash point; or
• the tank can otherwise contain a flammable vapor space.
In the case of viscous oils, such as cutback and penetration-grade asphalts, where the danger of tank
collapse resulting from sticking pallets or from plugging of flame arresters is greater than the possibility
of flame transmission into the tank, open vents may be used as an exception to the above requirements;
or heat traced vents that ensure that the vapor temperature stays above the dew point may be used.
4.14 Instrumentation
4.14.1 Level Instruments
Tanks shall be provided with at least two numbers of independent level instruments working on different
principles and one level indicator shall be radar gauge type for at least class 'A' storage tanks. One of
the above shall be used for High-High and Low level alarms. However, both independent level
instruments can also be radar gauges.
High Level (H), HighHigh Level (HH) alarms:
The tanks shall have provision of level instruments for sending audio visual alarms to the control rooms.
All the alarms shall be of different type so that the “H” level alarm, “HH” alarms can be distinctively
identified. Annunciator alarm with hooter sound for high level of tanks alarms should also be provided
at control room/ field operator room.
Level for “H” and “HH” alarms shall be decided based on site specific operating parameter i.e., diameter
of tank, flow rate and operators response time for corrective measures to stop product level reaching
curb angel/maximum floating position. However, these levels shall be lower than the level
corresponding to PESO approved safe filling capacity.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 9
Automatic isolation of tank receipt line based on level between High-High level and safe filling level
should be considered for the following conditions:
1. Tanks receipt directly from ship.

2. If the operator response time between H & HH alarms is less than 30 minutes.
4.14.2 Temperature
When rundown temperatures are likely to be higher than 100oC, a remote temperature indicator with
alarm should be provided in addition to local indicators. For tank capacity higher than 5000 KL, a
minimum of two numbers of local temperature indicators should be so located (within 500 mm above
the inlet/ outlet nozzle) as not to sense the direct heat of the coil.
4.15 Tank Protection
4.15.1 Earthing
a. Every storage tank, including its roof and all metal connections, should be electrically continuous
and be effectively earthed. All joints shall be riveted, welded or bolted and also soldered to ensure
both mechanical and electrical soundness. No. of earthing strip shall be based on the tank
diameter as per Clause 7.0 of OISD-GDN-180.
b. The roof and all metal connections of such tank or receptacle shall be in efficient electrical contact
with the body of such tank. In case of floating roof tanks, stainless steel shunts should be provided
across the peripheral seals as per OISD-GDN-180 to ensure earthing of floating roof.
c. The floating roof tank shall be bonded to the tank shell by direct electrical connection through
bypass conductors in line with OISD-GDN-180/ API-RP-545. The bypass conductors shall be of
the minimum length necessary to permit full movement of the floating roof. Bypass conductors
should be evenly spaced not more than every 30 m (100 ft) around the tank circumference with
a minimum of two.
d. OISD-STD-137 shall be referred for the resistance values of earthing system.
4.16 Painting and Numbering
Painting is essential for tank protection. Besides tank number, service, safe filling height, reference
height, last inspection date & next due date etc. should be painted on the tank to avoid operating errors.
For all white oil products, multifunctional epoxy resin base paint having heat reflecting, and self-cleaning
properties is recommended.
Tank Numbers should be painted at three positions, 120 degrees apart, below roof level and should be
clearly visible from outside the dyke/roadside. Recommended size of letters is half meter high and 50
mm thick. Additionally, at the foot of the staircase of each tank, tank number, safe filling height,
reference height and name of the product being handled should be painted clearly. Recommended size
of letters is 150 mm and 12 mm thick. Luminous paint shall be preferred.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 10
4.17 Insulation
a. Necessary insulation should be provided for heat conservation. It is advisable to provide a two
meters high insulation or protection guard around the tanks having higher surface temperature
for personal protection. Also, patch insulation may be provided on the shell along with spiral
stairway.
b. No mineral wool or rock wool insulation should be provided for a height of 150 mm near wind
girder top and at bottom plate to shell joint to avoid water accumulation and corrosion under
insulation. If insulation is provided, insulation capping to be done to avoid water ingress.
c. Sealing of insulation capping at top of tank below curb angle is essential to avoid water ingress.
d. All cladded penetration should be weather sealed to prevent water ingress, with a sealed sleeve
design applied to nozzles, to prevent insulation contact with nozzle.
e. Coating resistance to CUI should be applied after proper surface preparation before insulation
to enhance the life of storage tank.
f. Refer API- RP -583: Corrosion Under Insulation and Fireproofing for further guidance.
5.0 DESIGN CONSIDERATION FOR TANK FARMS/ MANIFOLDS
5.1 General
a. Tank farm area should be covered through CCTV surveillance system and same should be
continuously monitored.
b. The dyke wall made up of earth, concrete or solid masonry shall be designed to withstand the
hydrostatic load and shall be impervious . The dyke and the enclosures shall be inspected for
cracks, visible damage and like other deficiencies every six months (pre and post monsoons)
and after every major repair in the tanks or dykes. The purpose of a tank dyke is to contain the
petroleum product, in the event of the tank leak / rupture. Piping through dyke wall if any shall
be properly sealed. Direct access/ walkways from dyke wall to the operating valves shall be
provided for all the tanks.
c. The dyke area shall have proper slope outward of tank pad towards the inner periphery of the
dyke enclosure to prevent reverse flow.
d. Any electrical fittings and fixtures inside the dyke shall be as per the hazardous area
classification, but such fittings and fixtures except for actuators of ROSOV or MOVs or HC
detectors or PESO approved ex-proof water flow switch or ex-proof pressure transmitter should
be above the dyke height.
e. Earth-pits shall be provided outside of Dyke area and strips buried under the earth except at
termination points from a shortest possible distance. The earthing lay out diagram of each
facility should be displayed near each facility for reference.
5.2 Tank Farm Drains

a. The dyke drain should be provided along the inside periphery of the dyke enclosure wall. In
case circular drain around tank pad is provided, the same needs to be connected to the
peripheral drain.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 11
b. Tank farm drainage/ spillages/ rain water shall be routed either to oily water sewer or storm
water channel. Provision should exist for diversion valves located outside the dyke. In case of
clear rain water, the same shall be diverted to open channel. In case of tank rupture, the
contents shall remain within the dyke wall and gradually be diverted to oily water sewer. Status
of dyke drain valves shall be monitored/ recorded at regular intervals. Position Indicators and
alarm system for tank farm dyke valves shall be provided at field/ control room.
c. Dyke drain valves should always be kept closed except when draining water out of dykes.
d. Generally, for congealing services like VR, VGO, HCGO etc. CBDs are not provided. Instead,
pits are provided for residual drains, and these are cleaned manually. Individual pits are
normally provided to cater to tanks within one dyke only.
5.3 Fire Protection
The details of the fire protection are covered under the following standards.
• OISD-STD-116 on "Fire Protection Facilities for Petroleum Refineries & Oil/Gas Processing
Plants"
• OISD-STD-244 on "Storage and Handling of Petroleum Products at Depots and Terminals

including standalone crude oil storage facilities”
• OISD-STD-117 on "Fire Protection Facilities for Petroleum Depots and Terminals". (These
standard covers production installations having storage capacity for class A and B petroleum
products greater than 5000 KL)
• OISD-STD-189 on Fire Protection system for onshore drilling rigs, workover rigs, and oil/gas
production installation (These standard covers production installations having storage capacity
for class A and B petroleum products lesser than 5000 KL)
5.4 Manifolds
a. For safety considerations, it is desirable to keep the number of inlet/ outlet connections to the
tank shell to minimum. This reduces the number of flanges/ valves close to the tank. In case of
more number of lines, it is desirable to take a single header and form as manifold away from
the tank. Tank manifolds shall be located outside the dyke area preferably. However manifold
area should be paved, have curb walls and connected to OWS/ SWS.
b. Crude and other tanks, where water contamination can lead to unit upsets, additional suction
at two elevations may be considered so that top outlet can be lined up initially. Alternatively,
floating suction shall be installed. After tank settlement, a depression is normally formed on
tank pad along the circumference. The same should be effectively made up with proper slope
to avoid rain water accumulation and subsequent corrosion. Where large settlement is
anticipated, it is desirable to use flexible joints/spring supports for piping to nozzles.
c. Illumination requirement is to be considered for tank farm & tank manifold area as per OISD -
STD -149. Hazardous Area classification is to be followed for electrical fitting requirement as
per OISD-STD-113.
d. In case of congealing fluids, manifold shall be heat traced and length of dead end should be
minimized. Thermal safety valve (TSV)/ Expansion line shall be provided for blocked portion of
pipe lines to take care of the thermal expansion of product due to rise of temperature.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 12
e. In case the expansion line is connected at roof top, the line shall be extended inside up to the
Tank bottom to avoid free fall through vapour space with provision of siphon breaker on top.
f. Hydrocarbon pipelines, Fire water, Sprinkler, Foam lines of one tank should not pass through
the fire break area of the other tanks.
6.0 TANK HEATERS/ MIXERS
6.1 Heaters
Tank heating can be accomplished either by steam heating or electric tracing or hot oil circulation. Flue
gas using fired burners are not recommended as these are not safe.
6.2 Design Criteria
Tank heaters shall be designed to hold the product at the specified storage temperature when tank is
filled up to safe filling height. For design calculations, it is necessary to specify average wind velocity
and minimum ambient temperature over extended period of time.
6.3 Steam Heating

Manway heaters consist of a tube bundle, usually of hairpin type, fixed through a manhole of the tank.
Manway heater shall be designed so that its removal can be done without the requirement of person
entering in the tank.
Steam coils should have no flange connections inside the tank. Provision should exist in condensate
outlet lines to check for oil leak. Gradient of the coil bundle inside the tank should be such that
condensate accumulation is avoided. The outlet of steam pipe should be connected to dyke drain or
condensate recovery system
Temperature indicator should be provided on tank with indication at control room and a suitable control
mechanism should be provided to control the temperature.
6.4 Electric Heating

Electric heating can be provided for the fluid. However, the classification and thermal rating of electric
heating should be verified before application. The electric conduits /panels and cabling should conform
to Hazardous area classification.
All such panels shall be placed outside the dyke area. All power cables used within dyke area shall be
of fire retardant low smoke type. To ensure healthiness for electrical tracing system, necessary
indication to be provided at its local panel.
6.5 Hot Oil System

In case of fuel oil, LSHS, Bitumen etc. steam leak in the tank could lead to boil over. For this reason,
hot oil heating can also be considered for such cases. This would consist of a fired heater located in
remote area. A pump takes suction from a tank containing heating oil (e.g. Dowtherm) and circulates
through heater to the tank. Necessary remote temperature indicators and control valves are required
for the system. Again, isolation and sampling facilities are to be provided at each tank to check leaks.
Heating oil tank level should be monitored with indicators and alarm.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 13
6.6 Mixers
Though line blending is a preferred practice in refineries, final corrections may have to be done in tanks.
Mixing is also required to avoid stratification of heavy oil products and also to accommodate
downgraded products, seasonal quality changes as well as for pipeline interphases during cross country
transfer. However, blending of Class 'A' product into Class 'C' product by transfers should not be
resorted to. Otherwise, the tank should be re-classified.
6.7 Types of Mixers

Blending may be carried out by side entry propeller mixers, jet mixers or eductor mixers. In general,
eductor mixers shall be preferred for blending. The outlet of eductor shall be located away from tank
shell to avoid direct impingement.
Jet mixing shall not be considered for high viscous products and products with high water content.
Selection of type of mixer should be based on economics, effectiveness, and safety of operation. The
mixing stream in operation should never break the surface of the liquid.
API-RP-2003 shall be referred for the installation of mixers in tankages with regard to protection from
ignition due to static electricity and stray currents.
7.0 ETHANOL HANDLING
All practices as being followed in handling Class `A' Petroleum Products are required to be adhered
while handling Ethanol and Ethanol Blended Motor Spirit (EBMS). Anhydrous Ethanol is essentially
Ethyl Alcohol, which is denatured and is meant for use as fuel in automobile engines. Specified
percentage of anhydrous ethanol is blended with motor spirit . Facilities for storing and handling of
ethanol shall be provided at the locations.
API-RP-1626, Latest edition shall be referred for detailed information about storing and handling of
ethanol & Motor spirit-ethanol blends.
7.1 Salient features of ethanol:
a. Ethanol is completely soluble in water, which presents potential problems for storage and
handling. However, Ethanol will not be significantly degraded by small amount of clean water,
though water addition dilutes its value as a fuel.
b. A higher conductivity suggests that Ethanol will dissipate static charges that build up when
pumping fuel during fuel transfers faster than Motor Spirit. This gives Ethanol a theoretical
safety advantage over Motor Spirit, as static electrical charges generated will be dissipated
more quickly.
c. Viscosity of Ethanol is higher than that of Motor Spirit. However, it does not pose any problem
in handling in cold weather.
d. The auto-ignition temperature of Ethanol is significantly higher than that of Motor Spirit. This
makes Ethanol less susceptible to ignition when spilled on hot surfaces such as Engine Exhaust
Manifolds.
e. The lower explosive limit of Ethanol is higher than Motor Spirit. This is another advantage over
Motor Spirit. (Explosive limit of Ethanol - 4.3 to 19% & Motor Spirit – 1.4 to 7.6%)
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 14
f. Pure Ethanol burns with a flame that is not clearly visible in bright sunlight. However, Ethanol
doped Motor Spirit flame is visible.
7.2 Receipt, Storage and handling of Pure Ethanol:
a. Ethanol shall be received in dedicated tank trucks. All care shall be taken to prevent ingress of
water into the compartments during transportation.
b. The fittings in tank trucks used for transportation of Ethanol to receiving locations shall be the
same as used for storage and handling of Class 'A' Petroleum product.
c. The unloading operation shall be carried out through special Nitrile rubber or any other
compatible hose. Hose shall have external bonding wire to ensure electrical continuity.
d. Both the ends of the hose after use shall be capped. If existing lines are utilized, they must be
thoroughly flushed before use. Ethanol will loosen scale, rust, and dirt from the interior surface
of the piping. An 80 mesh “basket strainer’’ should be installed in the line at the Pump end/ tank.
The strainer should be removed and cleaned as necessary.
e. During unloading of ethanol by tanker under gravity to storage, corrosion Inhibitor shall be
injected to eradicate moisture.
f. During pipeline transfers, couplers shall be injected from drums using vacuum pump/ portable
ejector to eradicate moisture.
g. Vertical pumps are used to transfer ethanol from underground unloading vessels to Class-A
tank (Type-IFR).
h. Ethanol should be stored in a tank with internal floating roof or fixed roof (if air quality
requirements are met). Ethanol also is stored in underground vessels as per IS 10987:1992 or
equivalent standard. Ethanol, being hygroscopic, will absorb moisture from the air, Silica Gel
trap must be provided in the vent pipe of the tank to prevent ingress of moisture into the fixed
roof tank/ UG vessel. Regular check on the colour of silica gel shall be maintained (Blue Colour)
and shall need immediate replacement on showing signs of saturation by way of change of
colour. Say, silica gel turns from blue to pink after it absorbs moisture.
i. It is recommended to use carbon steel for storage tanks.
j. Storage tanks and allied facilities for ethanol shall be positively segregated. The tank shall be
absolutely free from water at all times.
k. Free water will extract a significant portion of the ethanol from the ethanol blend. Storage tanks
should be checked regularly for water/ ethanol tank bottoms. The usual water detection pastes
are ineffective in the presence of most alcohols. Suitable water/ alcohol detection pastes are to
be supplied. The use of a bottom sampler is also an appropriate method for determining the
presence of water/ ethanol bottoms.
l. Ethanol storage tanks shall be cleaned once in two years or more frequently depending on the
need.
m. It is recommended to paint tank bottom, shell and floating roof underside with epoxy phenolic
paint or equivalent in consultation with the paint manufacturer.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 15
n. Dedicated ethanol pumps are used for transferring ethanol from tank to existing spirit blend
header.
o. Ethanol can be blended with spirit using the in-line blender, the in-tank recirculation method, in-
truck blending or ratio controller as per requirement of incoming spirit streams.
p. Storage tank openings / pipeline fittings shall be airtight.
q. Water bottoms must be avoided; water bottoms will have a higher concentration of ethanol than
the ethanol blend and may be more damaging to both internally lined tanks.
7.3 Storage and handling of Ethanol Blended Motor Spirit:
a. It is recommended that EBMG should be stored in internal floating roof tanks to avoid moisture
ingress. Further, provision of Nitrogen blanketing with PVRV should be considered on fixed roof
to restrict hydrocarbon venting to atmosphere.
b. It is recommended to use carbon steel for storage tanks.
c. Storage tanks and allied facilities for EBMG shall be positively segregated.
d. Free water will extract a significant portion of the ethanol from the ethanol blend. Storage tanks
should be checked regularly for water/ethanol tank bottoms. The usual water detection pastes
are ineffective in the presence of most alcohols. Suitable water/alcohol detection pastes are to
be supplied. The use of a bottom sampler is also an appropriate method for determining the
presence of water/ ethanol bottoms.
e. It is recommended to paint tank bottom, shell and floating roof underside with solvent free epoxy
or equivalent in consultation with the paint manufacturer.
f. Dedicated EBMG pumps should be used for transfer/ despatch.
g. An 80-mesh filter shall be provided on the delivery side of EBMG i.e., between pump and tank
lorry filling (TLF) Gantry point. Also, coalescer is used for removal of moisture (if any) from
EBMG.
h. Water bottoms must be avoided; Water bottoms will have a higher concentration of ethanol
than the ethanol blend and may be more damaging to both internally lined tanks.
7.4 Fire & Safety:
a. The safety precautions for storing & handling ethanol and ethanol blend are similar for spirit.
Ethanol blend has a slightly higher vapor pressure than spirit, but this difference is not
significant.
b. All types of ethanol blend fires (spill, pressure, three dimensional, and fuel in-depth) can be
extinguished with dry chemical at the same rate of application as that required for spirit fires.
c. Ethanol blend spills should be treated in the same manner as spirit spills, including notifying
the proper authorities.
d. Safety requirements as prescribed in Material safety data Sheet (MSDS) shall be ensured.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 16
e. “SOP” shall be displayed. Persons handling ethanol shall be trained for handling of ethanol.
f. Emergency instructions, hazardous instruction shall be displayed and PPE as per MSDS
requirement shall be in place.
g. Foam compound should be stored as described in IS-4989 or equivalent standard.
h. Alcohol Resistant Foam (Polar Solvent) shall be used for handling ethanol, ethanol blend or
furfural fires. Minimum 1000 litres of Alcohol Resistant Foam compound shall be maintained at
the installation to handle methanol/ethanol, ethanol blend fire.
i. Personnel should approach an ethanol fire with caution. Ethanol fires may burn with a nearly
invisible flame and may generate little or no smoke.
8.0 GEODESIC ROOF
a. A geodesic dome roof, also known as a geodome, is a thin-shell structure based on a geodesic
polyhedron. The elements of the dome are usually triangular shaped and are arranged in a
pattern that, when completed, is structurally rigid and able to withstand relatively heavy loads
compared to their low weight and size. The dome roofs are basically of Aluminium make.
b. The roof’s primary purpose is to cover and protect the contents of the storage tank by preventing
rainwater and debris infiltration. Geodesic dome roof in particular can keep rain off a tank’s
external floating roof or allow an internal floating roof design to be used. Always a gap is
maintained between Geodesic roof and the tank curb angle. This gap is covered with bird
screen for open vent tank and with plate for gas tight tanks.
c. Aluminium structure provides a faraday cage effect for prompt dissipation of charge. Faraday
cage is an earthed metal screen surrounding an equipment so as to exclude electromagnetic
or electrostatic influences.
d. They also provide a way to comply with governmental regulations on vapor emissions as it can
avoid heating up of floating roof. The dome structure shall be fully triangulated all aluminium
space truss with non-corrugated panels. It shall be clear span and self-supporting from the
periphery structures. The roof blocks the wind flow to significantly reduce vapor emissions from
the tank. Primary horizontal stress shall be contained by the integral tension ring. Full provision
shall be made to allow for thermal expansion.
e. The geodome design shall comply with the API-STD-650 (Appendix G) standards while
installing over an atmospheric storage tanks. The vertical loads transferred from roof to the tank
shall be in line with the tank support walls. The transfer of horizontal loads to the tank shall be
minimized by means of low friction slide support. Radial forces applied to the tank shall not
exceed 10% of vertical reaction. The manufacturer shall provide adequate supports to equally
distribute forces into the tank shell considering out-of- roundness condition of the tank and
based on a shell thickness.
f. There shall be skylight panels made of clear acrylic or polycarbonate to allow visibility inside
the tank. These should be cleaned periodically to allow clear visibility inside the tank to visually
check the floating roof. ¼” Acrylic skylight panels shall be provided to cover 1% of dome area.
It shall be clear acrylic with a minimum nominal thickness of 0.25”.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 17
g. The maximum design temperature shall not exceed 90oC. Thus, constant monitoring of
temperature of product is required. The internal design pressure acting on the geodesic roof
shall be less than 0.022kgf/cm2.
h. The roof is not sealed to the tank, so corrosion-resistant coarse-mesh screen shall be provided
in the openings to prevent the entrance of birds. Cleaning and integrity of the mesh shall be
checked periodically.
i. All Geodesic roof tanks should be equipped with overflow nozzles designed as per the suitable
standard so as to prevent the floating roof from accidently damaging the dome.
j. The Requirement of lightning protection shall be based on OISD-GDN-180 and OEM

recommendations.
k. Open vent Geodesic Roof tank shall be considered as floating roof tank with respect to Fire &
Safety requirements. All Firefighting & Safety provisions shall be in line with type of product
handled.
Retrofitting is done for many reasons. Some of the reasons are as given below:
• To avoid product contamination by water
• As a lightning protection measure for external floating roof tanks of capacity less than 5000 KL
• To reduce VOC emissions
Aluminium geodesic roof on external roof tanks is acceptable subject to following:
a. The retrofitting job must be executed through agency(s) with adequate experience and proven
track record of having executed similar job i.e., retrofitting of aluminium geodesic roof on
existing EFR tanks.
b. Job should be executed under hot job permit after making the tank hydrocarbon vapour free.
c. Tanks foundation and its shell (particularly top shell) strength adequacy should be validated to
withstand the additional load of aluminium roof, through engineering calculations.
d. API-STD-650 Appendix G stipulates that tank to be fitted with geodesic roof should have wind
girder. The wind girder must be provided (if not existing), during or before retrofitting of geodesic
roof.
e. Geodesic roof design and its calculation should be adequately & properly reviewed. Roof sheet
thickness must be adequate to withstand all possible loadings and severe weather conditions.
f. Adequate engineering and operational provisions must be made to ensure that vapours in the
space above the floating roof always remain below the LEL (Lower Explosive Limit). It must be
ensured that,
I. Integrity of primary and secondary seals are in excellent health as per provisions of
OISD-STD-129
II. The geodesic cover should not be installed over damaged or perforated roofs.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 18
III. Ovality of tank should be checked prior to installing geodesic roof.
IV. Any damage or corrosion of the shell, roof top must be repaired prior to installation of
the dome.
V. The gap between floating roof and dip hatch should be adequately sealed.
VI. Provision of adequate vents in the geodesic roof must be as per API-RP-545 and API-
STD-650 requirements.
g. The existing Safety & Firefighting provisions shall be as per OISD-STD- 118/116.
h. Modifications may be required in existing rolling ladder, dip gauge, pipe and it’s sealing around,
foam pourer piping etc. and must be taken care while retrofitting the geodesic roof.
i. As the chances of hot spots formatting due to lightning cannot be totally ruled out, the geodesic
roof shall be covered with water sprinkler to cool the tank in view of possible burn through &
hot spot due to lightning.
j. All other provisions as per requirements of API-STD-650 Appendix G, NFPA-780 and other
applicable standards shall be followed.
k. As per API-STD-650: G.5.4 (as shown below) the aluminium dome roof shall be provided with
3mm stainless steel cable conductor at every third support points for electrical grounding with
tank shell. Since resistivity of SS is 40 times more than copper, copper conductor is preferred
over stainless steel.
l. For gas tight dome roof design, Pressure vacuum vent shall be provided.
If aluminium geodesic roof is used for a capacity beyond 5000 KL, in addition to above requirement,
necessary study to be done on the risk associated due to lightning and appropriate mitigation measures
like lightning air terminals on tank shell, lightning protection mast around tank or overhead shield wire
to be provided based on the product stored (considering the chances of explosive vapour between
floating roof and dome roof). The underlying principle is for augmenting lightning protection to
hydrocarbon storage tanks based on shifting the point of strike of lightning stroke to a safe area above
the vapour space (or above the classified zones for hazardous atmosphere) so that ignition of vapours
probably present above the roof does not take place. Striking distance of 30 m to be considered for
applying the rolling sphere concept of protected zone. Rim seal fire protection can be eliminated for
such tanks based on the study.
9.0 TANK OPERATION
9.1 General safety precautions:
I. All electrical fittings shall be maintained to ensure its integrity and type of protection.
II. Ensure all electrical fittings inside dyke area conforms to hazardous area classification/ PESO
approved.
III. The tank farm area must be kept clean and free from vegetation.
IV. Movement of floating roof must be smooth during operation. Free movement of rolling ladder
must be ensured by proper lubrication of moving parts and ensure free movement of wheels.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 19
V. Floating roof deck must be kept clean and free from all foreign materials/ dust etc. so as to
avoid clogging of roof drain sump.
VI. Water seal must be maintained in the emergency drain in double deck floating roof tanks & it
should be ensured that there are no traces of oil in the emergency drains.
VII. Ensure all the instruments/ safety interlocks/ Gas detectors are functioning. If the above is
required to bypass, the same needs to be recorded with proper reasons and approved by
competent authorities.
VIII. Tank levels to be monitored at specified frequency to identify, passing of valves, roof drain
failures etc.
IX. Do not exceed tank design conditions like pump in/ pump out rates, temperature, pressure.
X. Tank pressure to be monitored regularly in case the tank is provided with blanketing facility.
XI. Flow velocity at tank inlet should not exceed 1 m/s until the inlet is completely submerged. For
easy reference, permissible flow rates for initial filling are given below:
Size (in mm) of Inlet Max.Flow (cu.m./hr)

Pipe
300 246
250 168
200 109
150 59
100 27
80 25.5
For detailed description about Flow velocity (Refer Clause 4.5 of OISD-RP-110)
XII. Conductive footwear e.g., leather soles or electrically conducting rubber soles, should be worn
while gauging, sampling or taking temperatures. Nylon rope shall not be used for lowering
sample bottles in the tank.
XIII. One of the most common source of leak and spill is mobile storage tank, such as diesel fuel
tank used for construction machinery. It is desirable to dig a small pit or construct temporary
dyke around the tank.
XIV. If the tank has internal heating coils, steam to the coils should not be charged until the coil is
fully submerged and the condensate from these coils must be monitored for oil content.
XV. For tank farms effective communication is essential. Telephone with loud hooters may be
provided on roadside at various locations. This can also be utilized for communication during
emergency like fire.
XVI. Side entry mixers may be operated only when liquid level is above the blades or as per OEM
guidelines. The side entry mixers should be of such a design as to facilitate add-packing while
the tank is in operation.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 20
XVII. Whenever saline water is used for testing of tank, an oxygen scavenger and a corrosion inhibitor
or other mixture of chemicals can be used. Quantity of chemicals to be decided on the basis
of residual time of saline water/ as per OEM recommendations.
XVIII. While cleaning the tanks, care should be taken to avoid generation of static electricity. For this
reason, steaming of gassy tanks and cleaning of tanks by means of gas oil spray should be
avoided. Water washing is preferred. During initial opening of tank, care should be taken to
prevent auto ignition of pyrophoric iron sulphide deposits. Typical affected products include
aromatic tars, asphalt or sour crude oil and products.
XIX. Entry path of the tanks should be hard surfaced and should have proper lighting for illumination.
XX. Roof drain block valves shall always be kept open. If there is leak in roof drain system, the
same shall be isolated with proper SOP. The leak shall be attended, and the condition of roof
drain block valve shall be restored as open.
API-RP-2026 (Safe access/ egress on to external and internal floating roofs of in-service petroleum
storage tanks), latest edition shall be adhered for the below mentioned activities:
• Potential hazards associated with entry on to floating roof tanks
• Preparation for entry on to floating roofs
• Additional procedures for descent on to external floating roofs
• Permissible work on external floating roofs
• Additional procedures for descent on to internal and covered external floating roofs.
API-STD-2015, Latest edition shall be referred for the requirements for safe entry and cleaning of
petroleum storage tanks.
9.2 Safety precautions for roof entry:
Entry on floating roof is permitted only if all the following conditions are fulfilled:
• The roof is at least half way to the top. When the roof is below the halfway adequate
precautionary step shall be taken for entry.
• Gas test shows no presence of H2S and gas concentration is below 10% of the lower explosive
limit.
• Floating roof is levelled and free of oil and excessive water.
• One man is standby at the top of platform with/ breathing apparatus readily available.
• A life line with safety belt is used for the man going on the roof. The other end of the line held
by the standby at the top platform.
• The tank is not under receipt or delivery.
• No thunder/ lightning/ hail storms.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 21
Appropriate safety measures shall be put in place while gauging. Entity shall formulate SOP and the
same shall be followed while gauging.
For fixed roof tanks - Movement of people shall be allowed only if the roof is provided with walkway.
9.3 Emergency Procedures and Planning:
Industry shall prepare and have available orderly, clearly written emergency procedures and operating
instructions for handling various types of potential emergencies, including the following:
a. Action (emergency shutdown or product diversion) to be taken in the event of an alarm/ signal.
b. Action to be taken in the event of an overfill and subsequent product and vapour cloud release.
Refer Annexure -2 for Summary of actions to be taken for tank overfill protection.
Emergency procedures and instructions shall be revised as needed to reflect changes in operating
conditions or regulatory requirements. Appropriate emergency procedures to be followed in the event
of a mechanical, instrumentation, or electrical failure shall be in writing and the same should be available
at the facility.
9.4 Training
Operating personnel shall be trained in the emergency procedures, emergency response, and means
of communications. Training programs shall be developed to train personnel engaged in transfer
operations, including those persons assigned to test, inspect, and maintain overfill protection systems.
These programs shall be reviewed, and altered as necessary, as operating procedures, equipment,
instrumentation or regulatory requirements change. The training given to personnel shall be
documented. This documentation shall include the type and content of the training programs and
materials, the training date(s), the names of the persons trained, and the names of the instructors or
supervisors.
Refer OISD-STD-154 for further training requirements.
9.5 Response Time
Response time is the maximum time allowable between the activation of an alarm/ signal and the next
subsequent predetermined event.
The high-high-level alarm/signal in a single-stage system and the high-high-level alarm/signal in a two-
stage system shall be installed at levels designed to provide sufficient response time for an orderly
shutdown or diversion of product to take place before an overfill occurs.
As a minimum, this amount of response time is determined by the volume of product that would enter
the tank at the maximum fill rate:
• During the time the facility operator (or transporter) would need to get personnel into position
to start the shutdown or diversion.
• The time required from the initiation to the completion of shutdown or diversion.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 22
10.0 LOADING/ UNLOADING FACILITIES
Operating instructions for the pumps used for TT & TW loading:
a. Pumps shall be located in an exclusive paved area with drainage facilities routed to OWS/ ETP.
To avoid wide variation in pressure, leading to a 'kick' or 'hammering' in header and hoses, it is
necessary to choose pumps with flat characteristic curves.
b. Pumps shall conform to appropriate API standard.
c. Open roof pump houses should be provided with suitable ingress protection of motors/ control
panels. Pump house with roofs shall be well ventilated from all four sides.
d. Adequate coverage of Water cum foam monitors shall be available from minimum two opposite
sides of the pump house and pump manifold area.
e. Hydrocarbon detectors of suitable type shall be installed near all potential leak source of class-
A pumps, pump house manifold etc.
f. All loading pumps shall be provided with spill back/ recirculation mechanism so that minimum
flow is ensured through the pump to avoid overheating of pumps in case of low/ No flow
condition.
g. Elevated access ways/ catwalk should be provided in the pump house manifold area wherever
applicable to provide easy escape routes in case of emergency. Pump house shall be provided
with minimum two entry/ exit clear of any obstruction.
h. Loading pumps shall also be provided with additional explosion proof switches located at the
gantry to switch off the pump in case of emergency.
i. Dedicated pump shall be provided for each product to avoid product contamination.
j. When more than one loading pump is required to be run to meet higher loading rates, minimum
continuous flow requirement of each pump shall be considered.
k. It is desirable to have separate pumps for truck loading and not combined with wagon loading
as the latter are normally of much higher capacity.
l. Receiving lines as well as discharge lines shall be provided with thermal safety relief valves to
relieve pressure due to ambient temperature rise. Whenever isolation valves are used to isolate
TSV, isolation valve with lock open provision should be considered.
m. Thermal relief valves to be provided for headers having isolation facility on both
ends. Discharge from thermal relief valves in non-congealing services should be preferably
routed either to tanks or to underground drain vessels provided with pumps which auto-start
upon detecting high level. Alternately, it can also be routed to Oily Water Sewer
(OWS). Discharge from thermal relief valves in congealing services should be routed to open
pits which are not connected to OWS but are to be cleaned manually. Thermal safety valves
to be provided with locked open isolation valves on their inlet. Additionally, thermal safety
valves connected to closed systems should also be provided with locked open isolation valves
on their outlet.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 23
n. In case of multiple TSV outlet combining in to a common discharge header routed to tank or
underground vessel, one isolation valve shall be installed as close to the tank/ vessel as
possible.
o. Cast iron valve shall not be used in oil service. Steel valves conforming to relevant API
standards shall be used and material of construction shall be suitable for the intended service.
p. Provision shall exist for emptying out the loading headers back to tank by means of loading
pumps or through a drain vessel. Use of loading pump is feasible by connecting discharge pipe
to pump suction, downstream of suction valve and giving a similar connection from upstream
of discharge valve to upstream of suction valve. This ensures safe maintenance.
q. In case of large capacity wagon loading gantries where loading could vary from a rake to few
wagons, it is desirable to provide a minimum flow controller on discharge line to take care of
pressure fluctuations. When more than one loading pump is required to be run to meet higher
loading rates, minimum continuous flow requirement of each pump shall be considered.
r. Where flow indicators/ totalizers/ mass flow meters are provided for tank truck gantries or tank
wagon gantries, vapour eliminators shall be incorporated.
s. The gantry header valves shall be integrated to emergency shutdown system so that gantry
headers can be isolated in case of emergency.
11.0 TRUCK & WAGON LOADING GANTRIES
11.1 General Design Considerations for the Layout of Tank Truck & Tank Wagon Gantries
a. Tank truck & Tank wagon loading / unloading gantry, approach roads and its associated
facilities should be suitably constructed to prevent flooding.
b. Suitable space for turning for tank trucks shall be provided based on the larger tank truck/ Fire
engine. In case of space constraint in existing installation, QRA shall be carried out and the
mitigation measures shall be implemented.
c. Wagon/ truck loading gantries shall be on concrete supports. The Requirement of fire proofing
of structures shall be governed by fire exposed envelop study and suitable measures shall be
undertaken during the design of the said facility. (Refer OISD-STD-164 for detailed information
about fire proofing)
d. Entire loading gantry, including areas below railway lines/ truck bays, shall be paved for smooth
draining and collection of spillages into drains routed to ETP/ OWS. Drain shall be provided
across the periphery of the gantry. For collection of spilled oil, drained oil with suitable pumping
and discharge arrangement may also be considered in case of tank wagon gantry or the drain
shall be routed to OWS/ETP. The drain shall always be maintained clean.
e. Loading points shall have quick shut-off valves viz. Plug or Ball valves. Loading arms in tank
truck gantry and tank wagon gantry shall be provided with vacuum relief valves.
f. ESD shall be provided for each Gantry header minimum 15 m away from the loading bays.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 24
g. Entire Tank truck loading operation shall be completely Automated with provisions like Mass
flow meters, Weigh bridges, DCVs, Bulk air eliminators, Batch Controller and Rack monitoring
units and earthing interlocks.
h. As there would be variations in number of trucks/wagons being loaded at a time, the flow rate
through each point would also vary. Hence, restriction orifices or flow control valves or pump
design capacity must be provided to restrict velocity in line with OISD-RP-110, particularly for
motor spirit, kerosene, ATF and diesel in case of non-automated locations/process. In case of
automated locations, the required configuration can be achieved with LRC (loading rack
computer) configurations so that velocity in the lines does not exceed as specified in OISD RP-
110.
i. Tank truck gantries of handling volatile products shall be bottom loading and rail tank wagon
gantries shall have top submerged loading. (Alternate suitable emission control measures shall
be in place for design considerations)
j. The provision for Kerosene and MS / Naphtha loading in TT (tank truck) loading gantry shall
not be in the same bay in case of non-automated locations.
k. All flanged points, in loading header and loading points shall be provided with continuity jumpers
to dissipate static electricity.
l. Conductive sampling and gauging devices (including the sampling container and lowering
device) should be properly bonded to the tank compartment or truck as per OISD-RP-110.
m. Earthing of loading gantry shall be provided at structure pillars. Well maintained earthing clamps
should be available for earthing of trucks/ wagons.
n. In case of loading hoses, only neoprene impregnated hoses, supplemented with external wire
connecting loading nozzle to pipe should be used. Hoses used in Class A/B product services
shall be fire retardant.
o. All tank wagons and tank trucks should have a fill pipe leading to the bottom for Class A and
Class B products. However, splash filling is permissible for asphalt loading in tank truck or tank
wagons. Where bottom loading is done, deflector plates in the trucks / wagons to be ensured.
p. Bottom flameproof lighting should be provided for night time checking of each wagon bottom
leaks and also for proper sealing and inspection wherever loading/unloading during night is
required to be done
q. Loading gantry platform should have at least one explosion-proof telephone or public
addressing system for communication with pump house as well as in emergencies.
r. Gantries shall be protected with well-designed firefighting system. For details refer OISD-STD-
116 and 117.
s. Tank wagon and truck loading gantries shall be suitable for all weather conditions.
t. Retractable ladders made of light alloy material shall be used to provide easy access to tank
trucks. Hand rails shall be integral part of the retractable ladders. Alternatively, Swing type
loading ladders with counter weight & hand railing shall be light in construction. Neoprene
packing shall be provided at the bottom rest to avoid spark generation due to impact.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 25
u. All trucks entering truck loading gantry shall be provided with PESO approved spark arrestor at
the exhaust. However, Tank Trucks of BS-VI and above models are exempted from spark
arrestors in case suitable certification is provided by OEM and duly approved by PESO.
v. Oil and water collected from loading areas should be routed to central waste water treatment
facilities. Where such central facility does not exist, as in the case of terminals/bulk plant/depots,
local oil water collection and separation system should be provided. Depending on size, this
could be a catch basin or trap, API separator or similar facility. A slop tank may be earmarked
for storing separated oil.
w. Minimum two Emergency escape stairways shall be provided for each TT loading gantries.
Similarly, Adequate safe escape ladders including from overhead platform shall be provided at
intervals on the Tank wagon gantry/siding for emergency use. Escape ladders shall be
prominently identified from distant view.
x. For adequate permanent protection for tank truck discharge points, proper protection shall be
designed. The minimum width of such design shall be 1 M.
y. Protection against surge pressure in the loading header due to sudden change in loading rate
need to be considered.
11.2 Safety Precautions during Tank Truck Loading/ Unloading Operations
Following precautions shall be taken due to associated hazards during transfer of Petroleum products
to or from a tank truck.
a. All the Tank trucks shall be parked in drive out position during loading/unloading operation in
the bay.
b. Criss-cross movement of the Tank trucks during entry/ exit is not allowed in the TT Gantry area.
c. Each bay on TT Gantry shall be provided with Safety harness system with two belts/ fall
arrestor.
d. Open source of ignition shall not be allowed in the area where product transfer operations are
carried out.
e. Vapour space of not less than 5% of its capacity shall be kept in each container and 3% in each
tank truck in respect of petroleum Class A&B products. Similarly, minimum 3% vapour space
shall be kept in containers and 2% vapour space in tank trucks in respect of petroleum Class C
products.
f. Fire extinguisher shall be available in truck and shall be kept outside the truck during filling
operation. Fire extinguishers shall be placed near the tank trucks during operations in a
designated marked place.
g. The Double pole master switch shall be put off immediately after parking the truck in position.
No electrical switch on the truck shall be turned "on" or "off" during the transfer operation.
h. The first operation after positioning the truck shall be to provide proper earthing. Earthing shall
be disconnected just before the release of the truck.
i. Hoses shall be handled with care and inspected periodically as per OISD-STD-135.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 26
j. No repair shall be made on the truck while it is in the loading/unloading area.
k. Personnel shall wear applicable Personal Protective equipment as per company policy in line
with OISD-STD-155.
l. The loading / unloading operation shall be carried out under close supervision of authorized
person.
m. No mobile phone or any other source of ignition shall be permitted near the gantry.
n. In tank truck loading gantry, suitable non-metallic/ wooden type wheel stoppers shall be used
to avoid movement of truck during loading operation.
o. Filling/transfer operations should be suspended immediately in the event of
• Uncontrolled leakage occurring.
• A fire occurring in the vicinity.
• Lightning and thunderstorm.
p. Tank truck used for transportation of POL products other than Excluded Petroleum products
shall meet all provisions of OISD-RP-167.
q. OISD-RP-157 shall be adhered for safety procedures in entire transportation of petroleum

products including loading/ unloading operation for road and rail transportation.
r. Hand brakes to be applied after placement of Tank Truck in the designated bay in Tank lorry
filling shed/ Gantry.
s. Tank Truck shall move in the Gantry area with a maximum speed limit of 5km/hr. Suitable
signage to be provided at the entry to the Gantry.
t. Tank Truck shall not travel in the reverse direction in the Gantry area.
u. Tank trucks shall be parked in the loading/unloading area in such a way that the said parking
shall not hamper safe working with firefighting equipment.
11.3 Operating Procedures for Tank Truck Loading/ Unloading operations.
11.3.1 Loading operations
a. Check for following in a tank truck as per statutory regulations before accepting it for filling:
• Provision of PV vent, emergency vent, Master valve and other safety fittings.
• Fire screen between cabin and tank is provided. For this purpose, cabins with metallic back
cover without any opening will be considered as fire screen.
• Provision of 2 nos. of Fire Extinguishers of ISI mark (1 no. X 10/9 kg DCP and 1 no. 1 kg
CO2 /DCP /equivalent approved fire extinguisher).
• No leakage in exhaust silencer pipe.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 27
• Valid Explosive License and RTO certificate is available.
• PESO approved drawings of the tank.
• Availability of brazed copper strip for Earthing/ bonding connection.
b. Move truck to the loading bay.

c. Place the truck on loading bay and place wheel chokes at front and rear wheels. Keep the truck
in neutral mode with hand brakes "ON".
d. Stop the engine and switch off all electrical equipment.
e. All persons should leave the driver's cabin.
f. Provide earthing connections of the vehicle at specified point to the fixed grounding system.
g. Start the loading operations.
h. The quantity loaded into the truck can be assessed by
• Liquid level through manual dipping
• Filling through Flow meter
11.3.2 Unloading operations
a. Operations described under clause 11.3.1 of loading operations should be selectively carried
out.
b. Test the connections for leaks
c. Start the Unloading operations after opening of vent pipe cap to allow air intake during
unloading.
d. Before releasing the trucks ensure that valves are closed/ends are capped.
e. An authorized person of the company shall supervise the transfer operation and respond
immediately in the event of an emergency.
11.4 Safety Precautions during Tank Wagon Loading/ Unloading Operations
a. Safety harness system shall be made on Tank Wagon loading gantries throughout the length
of the Gantry.
b. Sufficient number of dummy wagons shall be used to avoid electric loco coming closer to the
gantry. Maintain the distance of 15 m from first fill point.
c. For tank wagon gantry where placement of tank wagon is by electrical LOCO, traction line must
terminate 15 M short of the first loading/ unloading point at all Terminal/ Depot locations.
d. Siding Rail lines shall be properly insulated from the main line and grounded.
e. The first operation after positioning the wagon shall be to provide for proper earthing and
bonding (Bonding in case of loading rail car wagons)
f. For connecting and disconnecting hoses, only non-sparking tools shall be used.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 28
g. After the wagons are placed on the spur it shall be ensured to apply brakes before detaching
the loco.
h. Likewise, before the wagons are moved from the spur, brakes on all the wagons shall be
released.
i. Ensure that electrical continuity of the system is intact.
j. Ensure that all fittings on the wagons are checked physically.
k. Hoses shall be tested as per OISD-STD-135 and records maintained.
l. The loading / unloading operation shall be carried out under close supervision of authorized
person.
m. No mobile phone or any other source of ignition shall be permitted near the gantry.
n. Check wagon for mechanical condition, dents, and leaks. Report defective wagons and/ or any
questionable condition to railways.
o. Accept the tank wagons for loading only after the railway staff declare the tank wagons as fit
for loading.
p. Personnel shall wear Personal Protective equipment.
11.5 Operating Procedures for Tank Wagon Loading/ Unloading
11.5.1 Loading operations
a. Take the placement properly in respect of loading points to ensure safe connection through
hose/ loading arm.
b. Ensure that suitable sized dummy wagons are used, and electrical loco does not cross isolation
joint.
c. Exhibit caution sign at suitable distance away from the wagons on both ends. Engine shall not
cross the stop board caution sign.
d. Switch off loco engine, if parked within 15 meters from the first loading point.
e. Apply brakes/stoppers for wagons to prevent any movement during loading operations.
f. Ensure fire system, communication system is ready for use.
g. Provide earthing connections to the wagons.
h. Ensure closing of internal valve (IV), bottom valve and end flanges tightened using gasket & all
nuts/ bolts. Metallic /Neoprene Gaskets shall be used. Cardboard or any other material shall
not be used.
i. Open the manhole cover of the wagon.
j. Connect the filling hose or loading arm to the wagon with bonding and tie it properly with wagon.
k. Commence the pumping, Open the valves slowly and fill slowly till the fill pipe is fully submerged
and ensure that there is no leakage.
l. Increase the filling rate; however, filling speed shall not exceed as specified in OISD-RP-110.
Product shall be filled upto safe filling height as per CTCC chart.
m. On completion of filling, remove the hose and keep it properly to ensure that the same does not
hit wagon during draw out.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 29
n. Carry out dip & sample checking, tighten all safety fittings like fill pipe, dip pipes etc.
o. Close the top cover of the wagon and seal it properly.
p. Remove earthing connections from wagons.
q. Complete documentation, check for any leakage and release the wagons for draw out.
r. Remove brakes/stoppers for wagons before draw out.
11.5.2 Unloading operations
a. Operations described under clause 11.5.1 of loading operations should be selectively carried
out.
b. Check that seals for wagons are intact, bottom valves are closed and there is no sign of
pilferage/ leakage.
c. Open the manhole/dome covers and check the dip and tally with loading dip. Check the sample
to ascertain grade of product.
d. Connect the unloading hose to the correct header with bonding. Tighten the flanges using
gasket& all nuts/bolts. Metallic/Neoprene Gaskets shall be used. Cardboard or any other
material shall not be used.
e. If any leak appears, the valve should be immediately closed, and corrective measures applied.
f. Recheck the lines and connections to make sure that they are connected correctly.
g. After the product connection is secured and tested, discharge valve should be opened slowly
and completely. Pumping can be commenced.
h. On completion of unloading, stop the pumps, check dip for emptiness, disconnect hose, close
wagon internal valve, bottom valves, dome cover and tighten bottom flanges using gasket to
ensure no leakage enroute from left over oil traces.
i. Remove earthing connections from wagons.
j. Complete formalities for documentation, check for any leakage and release the wagons for
draw out.
k. Remove brakes / stoppers for wagons before draw out.
11.6 Handling of Sick Truck/ Wagon
Before start of unloading sick truck/ sick wagon proper earthing connection of the vehicle/wagon shall
be ensured to the fixed grounding system. When a wagon is found leaking during loading, provision
should be kept for unloading the content safely. A drain header should be provided to drain out the
content to a underground tank/sump from where it can be pumped out to storage tank or to the loading
header. Alternatively, in case, mobile pump is used for unloading sick wagon, explosion proof motor
and power connection should be provided. Similar facility should be provided for unloading sick truck
tanker also.
12.0 HANDLING OF SLOP
General stipulations for VOC from wastewater/ effluent treatment plant:
All contaminated and odorous wastewater streams shall be handled in closed system from the source
to the primary treatment stages (Oil water separator, equalization tanks, etc.) The collection system
shall be covered with water seals on sewers and drains and gas tight covers on junction boxes.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 30
Oil-water separators and equalization tanks shall be provided with floating/ fixed covers. The off gas
generated shall be treated to remove 90% of VOC and eliminate odour. The system design shall ensure
safety prevention of formation of explosive mixture, possible detonation and reduce the impact by
dilution with air/ inert gas, installing LEL detector including controlling devices, seal drums, detonation
arrestors etc. The system shall be designed and operated for safe maintenance of the collection and
primary treatment systems.
Waste water from aromatics plants shall be treated to remove benzene & total aromatics to a level of
10, 20 PPM respectively before discharge to effluent treatment system without dilution.
12.1 Collection
A network of underground drainage system should be provided to collect oil drains from various
equipment’s, gantry areas, pump houses, tank dyke etc. They should also collect surface drains from
places where oil spillages are likely to occur. The underground drainage should lead to central waste
water treatment plant/ oil catcher as the case may be.
12.2 Receiving Sump
The receiving sump of the central oily water treatment facilities shall have inverted weir arrangement to
skim off upper layer of accumulated oil. Skimmed oil shall be pumped directly to wet slop tanks. Left
over oil water mixture shall be routed to waste water treatment.
12.3 Slop Oil Collection Sump
Separated oil from waste water treatment plant should be routed to an underground sump called slop
oil sump/ tanks. It is also desirable to provide a standby sump which would facilitate proper cleaning
and maintenance.
12.4 Processing & Disposal
12.4.1 Unit Slops
Off-spec products during start up or shutdown of process units are routed to dry slop tank. However,
hot and heavy products shall be routed separately to a tank and high RVP products to another tank.
While slop having high RVP/ low Flash point etc. should be stored in floating roof tank. The tanks shall
be designed to suit the pumping rate, RVP etc. and should be floating roof type. These dry slops are
either routed to crude tank or directly processed as a slop stream in processing units. Temperature
indication on DCS panel for all hot slop line should be provided with alarm as per design limits. Dry light
slop tank shall be routed to EFRT or IFRT type instead of FR tanks.
12.4.2 Wet Slops
Wet slops carry water and hence these tanks should be designed with liberal corrosion allowance (Refer
item 4.8). Wet slops are allowed to settle in wet slop tanks for further water separation and subsequent
draining. The draining shall be supervised, and the oil may be transferred to dry slop tanks. Wet slop
tank having steam coils shall have proper temperature control/ monitoring system so that excessive
heating is avoided.
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 31
13.0 ABBREVATIONS
ATF Aviation Turbine Fuel
ATG Automatic Tank Gauging
API American petroleum Institute
CBD Closed Blow Down
CCTV Closed Circuit Television
CDS Closed Drainage System
CUI Corrosion Under Insulation
EBMS Ethanol Blended Motor Spirit
EFRT External Floating Roof Tank
ESD Emergency Shutdown
ETP Effluent Treatment Plant
FRT Fixed Roof Tank
HCGO Heavy Coker Gas oil
IFRT Internal Floating Roof Tank
Kpa Kilo Pascal
LPG Liquefied Petroleum Gas
LRC Loading Rack Computer
LSHS Low Sulphur Heavy Stock
MCP Manual Call Point
MMWC Mili Meter of Water Column
MSDS Material Safety Data sheet
OEM Original Equipment Manufacturer
OWS Oily Water Sewer
PESO Petroleum & Explosive Safety Organisation
PNGRB Petroleum & Natural gas Regulatory Board
PVRV Pressure Vacuum Relief Valve
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 32
PV Pressure Vacuum
PCV Pressure Control valve
ROSOV Remotely Operated Shut-Off Valve
RSFPS Rim Seal Fire Protection System
QRA Quantitative Risk Analysis
SOP Standard operating Procedure
SWS Storm Water Sewer
T4S Technical Standards and Specifications including Safety Standards for Petroleum
Installations, PNGRB Regulations, 2020.
TVP Total Vapour Pressure
TSV Thermal Safety Valve
TLF Tank Lorry Filling
TT Tank Truck
TW Tank Wagon
VGO Vacuum Gas oil
VOC Volatile Organic Compound
VR Vacuum Residue
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 33
14.0 REFERENCES
(i) API-STD-520: Sizing, Selection, and Installation of Pressure-relieving Devices in
Refineries
(ii) API-RP-545: Recommended Practice for Lightning Protection of Aboveground Storage Tanks
for Flammable or Combustible Liquids
(iii) API-RP-575: Guidelines and Methods for Inspection of Existing Atmospheric and Low-pressure
Storage Tanks
(iv) API-STD-620: Design and Construction of Large, Welded, Low-pressure Storage Tanks
(v) API-STD-650: Welded Tanks for Oil Storage
(vi) API-RP-1626: Storing and Handling Ethanol and Spirit-ethanol Blends at Distribution Terminals
and Filling Stations
(vii) API-STD-2000: Venting Atmospheric and Low-pressure Storage Tanks
(viii) API-RP-2003: Protection Against Ignitions Arising Out of Static, Lightning, and Stray Currents
(ix) API-STD-2015: Requirements for Safe Entry and Cleaning of Petroleum Storage Tanks
(x) API-Publication-2026: Safe Access/Egress Involving Floating Roofs of Storage Tanks in

Petroleum Service
(xi) API-RP-2210: Flame Arresters for Vents of Tanks Storing Petroleum Products
(xii) API-RP-2350: Overfill Protection for Storage Tanks in Petroleum Facilities
(xiii) GSR 186 (E) of MoEF
(xiv) IS 12222:2011, IS 10987:1997
(xv) NFPA 780: Standards for the installation of Lightning Protection systems
(xvi) Petroleum Rules 2002
(xvii) UOP Project Specs.
(xviii) CALTEX Basic Practices
(xix) Storage & Handling of Petroleum Liquids by John R. Hughes
(xx) OISD Study Report (EDS: OISD: JIC: 23 dated 21st May 2014) on Installation of Aluminum
Geodesic Roof on external floating roof tanks handling class-A hydrocarbon tanks.
(xxi) OISD-RP-110: Recommended Practices on Static Electricity
(xxii) OISD-STD-113: Classification of Area for Electrical Installations at Hydrocarbon Processing &
Handling Facilities
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 34
(xxiii) OISD STD-118: Layouts for Oil & Gas Installations
(xxiv) OISD STD-116: Fire Protection Facilities for Petroleum Refineries and Oil/ Gas Processing
Plants
(xxv) OISD STD-117: Fire Protection Facilities for Petroleum Depots, Terminals, Pipeline
Installations & Lube oil installations
(xxvi) OISD-STD-135: Inspection of Loading & Unloading hoses for Petroleum Products
(xxvii) OISD-STD-137: Inspection of Electrical Equipment
(xxviii) OISD-STD-144: Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) Installations
(xxix) OISD-RP-149: Design aspects for safety in electrical systems
(xxx) OISD-RP-157: Safety in transportation of bulk petroleum products (Rail & Road)
(xxxi) OISD-STD-164: Fire Proofing of Steel Supporting Structures in Oil & Gas Industry
(xxxii) OISD-RP-167: POL Tank lorry Design & Safety
(xxxiii) OISD-GDN-180: Lightning Protection
(xxxiv) OISD-STD-189: Standard on Fire Fighting Equipment for Drilling Rigs, Work Over Rigs and
Production Installations
(xxxv) OISD-GDN-224: Monitoring & Control of Volatile Organic Compounds Emission
(xxxvi) OISD-STD-244: Storage and handling of Petroleum Products at depots and terminals including
standalone crude oil storage facilities
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 35
15.0 ANNEXURES
Annexure -1 Fill Level of Tanks
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 36
Annexure -2 Summary of actions to be taken for tank overfill protection
Attended Facilities
Point of Attended & Unattended Facilities with Automatic
Without Automatic
Action Detectors
Detectors
Product Level Manual Action Signal Automatic/ Manual Action
Overfill level Initiate immediate After Initiate immediate response and/ or
response and/or emergency action.
(Maximum emergency action. H-HL
capacity)
Safe fill level Product level not to be H-HL High-high-level signals if safe fill signal
exceeded. Immediately level exceeded. Immediately shut down
(Tank rated shut down or divert flow or divert flow either manually or
capacity) so overfill level not automatically so overfill level not
reached. reached.
Normal fill Start manual overfill HL High-level signals if normal fill level
level prevention to shut down exceeded. Start automatic or manual
or divert flow so safe fill Pre-signal overfill prevention to shut down or divert
(Normal level not exceeded. flow so safe fill level not exceeded.
capacity)
Pre-signal N.A Gauge Product at level where initial manual or

System automatic action may be started.
Loss of N.A No Signal Stop or divert product flow.

monitoring
data (power
loss or
system
failure)
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 37
Annexure - 3: General safety check list during tank operations for crude, intermediate,
product & slop:
The below mentioned checklist should be followed monthly with suitable modification based on site
conditions.
Sl. Item Observation Action taken in brief

No (if any) with date.
1. Whether only the authorized
personnel is allowed inside the
tank farm?
2. Whether personnel working at
tank farm wearing proper PPE?
3. Whether the dyke area &
pathway is clean and free from
vegetation/flammable/
combustible materials?
4. Visual inspection of tanks
for any sign of leakage/
sweating/ valve gland leakage
etc.
5. Whether all the tank instruments
(LT,TT etc..) are properly
working?
6. Whether proper approach has
been provided from road to tank
farm manifold and it is free from
obstruction?
7. Whether the tank dyke is
approached on all four sides from
the road?
8. Whether the integrity(with out any
crack/ hole/ damage) of the dyke
wall is maintained in order to
contain the largest volume of the
dyke?
9. Whether peripheral tank drain is
clean and connected to OWS/
CRW?
10. What is the status of dyke drain
valve? (Dyke drain valve should
be kept in closed condition on
normal scenarios)
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 38
11. Check position indicator of dyke

drain valve and alarm in case of
opening the valve? If it is
available?
12. Whether the OWS/ dyke drain pit
if free from debris/ blockage?
13. Is there any sweating/ leakage
from tank bottom plate?
14. Whether the tank pad/ berm is
maintained in good condition?
15. Whether annular plate is exposed
and the same s free from
corrosion?
16. Whether the condition of side
entry mixers is in working
condition?
17. Whether the insulation/ cladding
is properly maintained for
pipelines/ tanks?
18. Whether ATG & Manual Gauge
readings are matching?
19. Whether proper functioning of
gas detectors(HC/ H2S) is
ensured by through checking &
calibration?
20. Whether Steam heat exchangers
condensate outlet is free from
hydrocarbons? if applicable
21. Whether steam condensate outlet
is free from hydrocarbons? if
applicable.
22. Whether Goose Neck is free from
blockage?
23. Whether seating of Pressure
vacuum relief valve is intact?
24. Whether emergency vent is
available and intact?
25. Whether earthing cables/ strips
between roof and shell, physical
continuity is maintained, and
appropriate details are painted on
the earth pits?
26. Whether the roof area, roof drain
sump is free from debris/
blockage?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 39
27. Are all roof drain valves in open

condition?
28. Whether emergency roof drain
are free from debris and the
same is filled with water?
29. Whether the secondary seal is
intact?
30. Whether the Pontoon boxes are
properly covered/ cleaned?
31. Whether the brass wheel on
rolling ladder is free from
damage? Check the status of
lock pin on roof ladder? Whether
the alignment of floating roof
ladder is proper?
32. Whether the healthiness of
staircase, handrail, landing
platform, shell & roof ladder is
maintained?
33. What is the condition of brass
ring on dip hatch?
34. Whether wind girder platform
drain holes are provided?. Any
sign of water accumulation on
wind girder platform?
35. Whether all the fire protection
facilities are available? (RSFPS,
Sprinklers, Pourers, MCP etc..)
36. Whether sufficient illumination for
tank farm is being maintained?
37. Whether all the extra
precautionary measures is being
adopted at night hours and
stormy weather situations?
38. Whether the ROSOV/ ESD is
available for emergency
actuation? If it is applicable
39. Whether Isolation Valves on
expansion line(s)/ TSV vent
line(s) are always kept open
except under requirement during
location specific operations to
take care of thermal expansion?
40. Whether SOPs are available for

critical operations?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 40
41. Whether Breather vent is closed

in tank floating condition?
42. Whether Rim vents are intact?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 41
Annexure - 4: General safety check list during blend header operations:
The below mentioned checklist is generic in nature. Based upon this, individual locations shall formulate
their own checklist depends upon the type of blending facilities available.
Sl. Item Observation Action taken in brief (if

No any) with date.
1. Check whether the blend
header has a static mixer
2. Check whether the static
mixer has a bypass line, and it
is closed.
3. Check if the header has a
back pressure PCV (PCV is
Air Fail Open)
4. Check for Fast Loop Pump
suction at upstream of PCV
5. Check for Fast loop pump
discharge going to Analyzer
station and balance to PCV
downstream/ blend header
6. Whether analyser slop
pumping back to blend header
facility is available?
7. Whether gas detectors are
located at analyser station?
8. Whether TSVs are provided
on Individual streams of blend
header?
9. Whether the outlet of blend
header is lined up to any one
of the storage tank for thermal
relief?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 42
Annexure - 5: General safety checklist during product loading & unloading

operation:
conditions.
Sl. Item Observation Action taken in brief (if

No any) with date.
1. Whether electrical termination in
the JBs is apparently sound?
2. Whether earthing/ bonding
connections are apparently sound?
3. Whether pressure gauges on
pumps/ compressors are in working
condition?
4. Whether gas detectors are
functional?
5. Whether pump motor coupling
guards are in position?
6. Whether connected drain line
valves on strainer/ line are closed &
caps in position?
7. Whether valves for product
circulation are cracked open for
loading operations?
8. Whether any abnormal vibration
excessive noise from pumps motors
noticed?
9. Whether any visible sign of product
leakage from valves/ flanges/ seals
or any unsafe conditions observed?
10. Whether strainers are periodically
cleaned and written?
11. Whether valve operating platforms
are kept free for easy movement?
12. Whether Housekeeping in order?
13. Any other observations?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 43
Annexure - 6: General safety check list during tank truck loading & unloading
operations:
conditions.
Sl. Item Observation Action taken in

No brief (if any)
with date.
1. Random check for TT speed
limit (10 KMPH) inside the
premises
2. Whether crew members are
carrying proper Identity cards?
(Random check)
3. Whether spark arrestors are of
make and design approved by
PESO? (Random check)
4. Whether TT engine and master
switch is switched off after
placement at gantry & wheel
chocks are used?
5. Random check of TT cabin for
presence of any
matchstick/flammable substances
etc.
6. Random check for TT earthing on
designated cleat of TT body and
not on mud/ guard/ valve / cabin.
7. Whether Capacitance type
earthing is provided for TT
earthing?
8. Whether retractable swing ladders
are safe for operations and has
neoprene pad to avoid metal to
metal contact?
9. Whether Safety harness is used
for TT loading operations?
10. Random check for product
leakage from valve/ flanges/
swivel joints etc. Check TT
manifold valves for any leakage
during loading.
11. Whether removal of product from
TT compartment is safely handled
in a closed loop system?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 44
12. Check if any loose product is

stored in the gantry in drums/
buckets etc.
13. Whether gantry area is free from
oil spillage and housekeeping is
good?
14. Whether operating personnel are
carrying walkie talkie?
15. Whether the emergency shut
off switch for pumps is
functional?
16. Whether approach to gantry
isolation valve is free from any
obstruction?
17. Whether approach to hydrant/
monitors around gantry are free
from any obstruction?
18. Random Check if portable FE are
placed at designated area & easy
accessible area before loading of
TT
19. If hoses are used, whether the
integrity (hydro test & electrical
continuity test) of hose condition
is maintained?
20. Whether loading arms/ hoses are
secured properly in the gantry
after loading operations and do
not obstruct TT movement in the
gantry?
21. Whether emergency escape is
marked with signage/ display and
approach is free from obstruction?
22. Whether SOP is in place and the
same is being displayed &
followed?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 45
Annexure – 7: General safety check list during tank wagon loading & unloading
operations:
conditions.
Sl. Item Observation Action taken in

No brief (if any) with
date.
1. Random check for Railway
locomotive, whether stops at
least 15M. before from 1st
loading/ unloading point during
placement/withdrawal
2. Random check for physical
stopper, whether ensure apart
from hand/ pneumatic brakes to
prevent movement during
operations?
3. Whether No shunting device/
caution boards positioned before
start of operations?
4. Whether retractable swing ladders
are safe for operations and
neoprene pad provided to avoid
metal to metal contact?
5. Whether earthing and bonding is
provided in TW gantry?
6. Whether splash loading is
avoided? (Random check)
7. Whether product leakage from
valve/ flanges/ swivel joints
observed?
8. Whether removal of product is
safely handled in a closed loop
system?
9. Check if collection of product in
open drums and buckets are
safely handled.
10. Check if Oil accumulation in
drains is observed?
11. Whether covers on open drain in
place?
12. Whether walkie talkie provided to
the persons working at gantry
area?
OISD–STD–108
Page No. 46
13. Whether the ESD for automation

location or explosion proof remote
shut off switch for pumps exist &
functional? When the same was
last checked.
14. Whether approach to isolation
valve is free from any
obstruction?
15. Whether gantry area is free from
oil spillage and housekeeping is
good?
16. If hoses are used, whether the
integrity (hydro test & electrical
continuity test) of hose condition
is maintained?
17. Whether loading arms/ hoses are
secured properly in the gantry
after operations and do not
obstruct the wagon movement.
18. Whether emergency escape is
marked with signage/ display and
approach is free from obstruction?
19. Whether SOP is in place and the
same is being displayed &
followed?

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OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE

तेल भंडारण व हैंडललंग

OIL STORAGE AND HANDLING

Inception July 1997

FOR RESTRICTED CIRULATION ONLY

OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE

2nd FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE

Ratnakara Rao Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

Gurdeep Singh Oberoi Engineers India Limited

Arshad Hussain Oil & Natural Gas Corporation

Bhavin Gandhi Reliance Industries Limited

Chetankumar Arvind Bhai Popat Nayara Energy Limited

Anil Kumar Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

Dhanjit Baishya Indian Oil Corporation Limited

Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals

Vikas Gupta Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited

Santosh Basumatary Oil India Limited

Mangalore Refinery & Petrochemicals

Mahesh S Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited

Nilesh Jadhao Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited

Rajnish Vaid Oil Industry Safety Directorate

Vivek Prakash Singh Oil Industry Safety Directorate

Shathish Kumar S Oil Industry Safety Directorate

1st FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE

E.Nandakumar Cochin Refineries Limited, Cochin

H.S.P.Rao Bharat Petroleum Corpn. Ltd. (R),

D.K.Agarwal Hindustan Petroleum Corpn. Ltd.

P.R.Waghmare Indian Oil Corpn. Ltd. (M) , Mumbai

T.Jayakumar, Madras Refineries Limited, Madras

S.N.Mathur Oil Industry Safety Directorate

MAJOR CHANGES IN REVISED EDITION

3. Design Consideration for Storage Tanks:

Stairways, Handrails, Windgrider, Flame Arrester is added.

6. New Chapters on Ethanol Handling and Geodesic roof :

• Ethanol Handling – As per API 1626, Reaffirmed on May 2020.

7. Tank Operation: (Completely restructured with salient additions)

• General Safety Precautions.

• Annexure -1 Fill Level of Tanks.

Sl.No Chapters Page No

4 Design Considerations for Storage Tanks 3

5 Design Considerations for Storage Tank farm/ Manifold 10

6 Tank Heaters/ Mixers 12

8 Geodesic Roof Tanks 16

10 Loading/ Unloading Facilities 22

11 Truck/ Wagon Loading Gantries 23

Annexure -1 Fill Level of Tanks 35

3.2 Crude Oil Exploration & Production:

3.3 Oil/ Gas Processing Plants:

3.4 Pipeline Installations:

3.5 Central Tank Farm (CTF):

3.6 Group Gathering Stations:

3.9.1 Atmospheric Storage Tank:

These tanks can also be sub-divided into two categories:

• Atmospheric storage tanks with blanketing facilities

3.9.2 Low Pressure Storage Tank:

3.10 Tank capacity

3.10.1 Nominal Capacity of a Tank

3.10.2 Overfill Level

3.10.3 Safe fill level (Safe Capacity)

3.10.4 Normal fill level (Normal Capacity)

(Refer Annexure -1 for pictorial representation of fill level of tanks)

3.11 Sick Wagon/ Trucks

3.12 Classification of Petroleum