Emergency Generator Refueling (Environmental)

Purpose

The purpose of this document is to describe the procedures used to reduce the potential for spills during refueling of the four emergency generators located by AA&CC, Charles Francis, Founders Hall, and Blume Library.

Background

This procedure is a supporting document for the Oil Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan. The SPCC plan consists of the spill prevention strategy for St. Mary’s University. Four generators that run on diesel fuel serve as emergency power units. The generators have a maximum of 24 hour runtime. The generators are maintained between ¼ and ¾ fuel at all times. The generators and maximum capacity are as follows:

• G1 – AACC Generator (70 gals)
• G2 – CF Generator (438 gals)
• G3 – Founders Hall Generator (79 gals)
• G4 – Blume Library Generator (192 gals)

Applicability

This document applies to the St. Mary’s University Facilities Services.

References

Oil Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan

Reference documents

• NEPA 110: Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems
• 40 CFR 112: EPA Spill Prevention, Control, and Countermeasure (SPCC) Rule

Procedure

Each generator is run weekly between 11am and 12pm to verify and maintain proper operation. Fuel capacity is checked at this time. During emergency operation, the generator is monitored on a more frequent basis.

A portable 50-gal diesel fuel tank with electric pump (12v) is used to refuel the generators. The tank is transported to the generator location when refueling is required. The operator has a spill kit and Zorbent (absorption media) available during refueling.

Note: The portable 50-gal tanks are filled up by the Grounds /Automotive division using the fuel-dispensing pump in the Facilities compound. Records are maintained for usage and consumption.

Each generator has a site gauge. The operator monitors the site gauge and tank space at all times during refueling.

If a spill occurs, the operator uses the spill kit and absorbent material to contain and clean up the spill. This contaminated material is then sent to the Grounds/Automotive division for disposal. All personnel responsible for refueling of generators are trained on SPCC.

Each generator consists of a double-lined fuel tank to serve as containment in case of rupture. Refer to the SPCC plan for spill control actions, periodic inspection, and Preventive Maintenance schedule.

Responsibilities

The Director of Facilities or authorized delegate is responsible for spill control during the refueling of emergency generators.

Training

All personnel responsible for refueling of the emergency generators must be trained on this procedure and SPCC before engaging in refueling activities.

Record Keeping

Records of emergency generator operation, refueling events, spill incidents, and personnel training is maintained and filed in the Facilities Services Office per University Record Retention Policy.

Glossary

Authorized Delegate: An individual or entity that has been granted specific authority to act on behalf of the Director of Facilities.

Emergency Generator: A backup power system that automatically provides electricity when the primary power source fails.

Zorbent: A brand name for a type of sorbent that is designed to be lightweight, highly absorbent, and environmentally safe. Sorbents are commonly used for cleaning up spills and  removing pollutants. It can absorb a wide range of liquids, including hazardous wastes, and is known for its ability to encapsulate and encapsulate liquids, leaving surfaces clean and dry.