B U L K PL A N T S
the least bit of mechanical know-how might potentially access your product.” Next to ensuring that “the wrong people don’t access your
site,” continues LeVine, “is making sure the amount of fuel that goes into a truck isn’t too much. You don’t want overfills so that product is pouring down the street or pooling on the concrete pavement below the truck.” Though sensors are helpful in determining when a tank is at
capacity, automation can prevent a spill earlier in the chain of events. “Skids should always be equipped with an overfill device,” relates LeVine, “but automation also allows you to manage driv- ers, carriers, and trucks with preset boundaries. “So if a trailer can hold 5,000 gallons, but the driver attempts
to input a 6,000, then you’ll get an alert and can prevent the transaction.” Over the years LeVine has seen bulk plants that lack even gated
access. “First, understand the importance of the simple, basic things you must do to ensure safety and security,” he counsels. “And then remember that it’s critical for you, as a bulk plant operator, to have the capabilities required for commanding and controlling access to and information about your facility.” l FON
Mark Ward Sr. also contributed to this report.
www.fueloilnews.com | FUEL OIL NEWS | JUNE 2011 23
