Requirements in relation to underground pipes associated with fixed tanks7.

(1)

A person who has custody or control of any oil must ensure that the requirements of this regulation are complied with.

(2)

This regulation applies in any case where a pipe mentioned in regulation 6(4) is underground.

(3)

The pipe may not have mechanical joints unless they are located at a place where they are accessible for inspection by removing a hatch or cover.

(4)

The pipe must be adequately protected from physical damage.

(5)

The pipe must have adequate facilities for detecting any leaks.

(6)

If the pipe is fitted with a leakage detection device which is used continuously to monitor for leaks, the device must be maintained in working order and tested at least once every five years, or more frequently if appropriate to the device in question, to ensure that it works properly.

(7)

Any pipe which is first used on or after the date on which these Regulations come into force in relation to the tank to which that pipe relates (see regulation 1) must, if it is not fitted with a leakage detection device, be tested for leaks before it is first used and further tests for leaks must be performed, in the case of pipes which have mechanical joints, at least once every 5 years and, in other cases, at least once every 10 years.

(8)

Any pipe which—

(a)

is in use on the date on which these Regulations come into force in relation to the tank to which that pipe relates (see regulation 1); and

(b)

which has not been tested for leaks in the previous 5 years,

must be tested within 1 year of that date and thereafter, if it has mechanical joints, at least once every 5 years or, in any other case, at least once every 10 years.

(9)

Any pipe which—

(a)

is already in use on the date these Regulations come into force in relation to the tank to which that pipe relates (see regulation 1); and

(b)

has been tested for leaks in the previous 5 years,

must be tested, if it has mechanical joints, at least once every 5 years after the date of the last test or, in any other case, at least once every 10 years after the date of the last test.