The PTMAA often learns of storage tanks which are intended to be moved around on a particular job site or to another location all together. Our recent experience is to have companies scrambling to get “temporary storage” during a diesel fuel shortage. Having a “temporary” facility does not translate into being safer than a permanent installation so all provisions of the Alberta Fire Code must be adhered to.
There is an exception to this rule. The Fire Code exempts tanks “on isolated construction projects”. “Such tanks may include isolated construction sites and earth-moving projects, including gravel pits, quarries, and borrow pits, where in the opinion of the authority having jurisdiction, it may not be necessary to comply with the more restrictive requirements of Part IV.” Such tanks would also not have to be registered with the PTMAA.
Unless the tank you propose to install fits the description above, all approvals must be received before putting the tank into use. Please refer to the publication Planning an Aboveground Storage Tank Installation to see all approval requirements.
Another common inquiry is with respect to mobile fuel tanks. These tanks are mounted on a trailer and are pulled to equipment needing to be refuelled. Mobile tanks are not governed by the Fire Code. The relevant legislation for these tanks is the Dangerous Goods Transportation & Handling Regulation. For guidance for mobile fuel tanks inquire with Alberta Transportation.