Section 5 Other considerations

5.1.1 In general, production units with crude oil bulk storage tanks are to be designed so that the separation of living quarters, storage tanks, machinery rooms, etc. are arranged in accordance with the requirements of Pt 3, Ch 3 Production and Storage Units.

5.1.2 Special consideration may be given to concrete oil storage tanks fitted with suitable partial tank linings to prevent the risk of the escape of gas into adjacent spaces.

5.1.3 Concrete storage tanks used for the storage of liquefied gases, with or without insulation, are to be specially considered.

5.1.4 The general requirements for fire safety, hazardous areas and ventilation are to comply with Pt 7 Safety Systems, Hazardous Areas and Fire. Safety and communication systems are to comply with the requirements of Pt 7, Ch 1 Safety and Communication Systems.

5.2.1 The required minimum period of fire resistance is to be stated in the design brief so that adequate protective measures may be taken by the selection of appropriate aggregates, reinforcement and cover. The selected Codes or Standards or specialist literature should be referred to for guidance.

5.2.2 Care should be exercised with certain lightweight aggregates. Where necessary the fire resistance of lightweight concretes is to be documented.

5.3.1 The requirements for the corrosion protection in Part 8 applicable to steel structures is also to apply to the exposed steel components of concrete units.

5.3.2 Reinforcement steel and pre-stressing tendons should either be actually isolated from the protected external steel, or the cathodic protection system designed to allow for current drain into the reinforcement as if it were electrically linked. In view of the practical problems of electrically isolating exposed and embedded steel, it is often preferable to consider them linked and make the necessary allowances in the cathodic protection.

5.4.1 The general requirements for watertight and weathertight integrity given in Pt 1, Ch 2, 3 Surveys — General are to be complied with.

5.4.2 Any proposals to deviate from the general requirements for steel units will be subject to special consideration.

5.5.1 The general requirements for surveys are to comply with Pt 1, Ch 2, 3 Surveys — General and Pt 1, Ch 3 Periodical Survey Regulations.

5.5.2 The Owner’s planned procedure for the inspection of oil storage tanks and other enclosed spaces will be specially considered. Due account may be taken of the good performance to date of the use of concrete structures for the storage of hydrocarbons.