Coast Guard Revises Regulations for Vapor Control Systems

On July 16, 2013 the Coast Guard published a final rule revising existing safety regulations for facility and vessel vapor control systems to make VCS requirements more compatible with other federal and state environmental regulations, reflect industry advancements and codify the voluntary standards for VCS design and operation at tank barge cleaning facilities. The final rule updates regulations taking into account design and technological improvements and an expanded regulatory scheme for vapor control systems. The updated regulations also seek to minimize the administrative burden on the agency by reducing the need for individual exemptions and equivalency determinations to accommodate improved designs. The final rule also provides additional requirements for VCS equipment, compliance, documentation, training, and operations. While the regulations seek to increase operational safety and marine protection, they do not require anyone to install or use VCSs. The final rule will take effect on August 15, 2013. 

This entry has been created for information and planning purposes. It is not intended to be, nor should it be substituted for, legal advice, which turns on specific facts.