Tank truck to marine vessel - Oil transfer

5. Tank Trucks

This section covers the regulations governing tank truck drivers as well as qualifications and insurance needed by drivers in order to be in compliance with the law. Safety equipment required on the vehicle is also discussed.

5.1 Driver Qualifications

Drivers must be properly trained as follows:

• Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG) certification is required for all drivers carrying flammable or combustible liquids
• CPPI driver certification is required for all drivers picking up petroleum products at major terminals.
• The training for this certification involves safe loading procedures, safe unloading procedures at customer facilities, emergency procedures and more.
• All drivers engaged in deliveries to vessels should have this certification.
• WHMIS training is required for all employees who handle controlled substances including most petroleum products
• Emergency Response training meeting the CPPI standard or equivalent
• Be familiar with the requirements of this document for the specific operations being carried out.
• Compliance with the National Safety Code with respect to log books, hours of service and other relevant information.

5.2 Regulations

Tank truck construction, operation, inspection and maintenance are regulated by Fire Codes, TDG and other regulations. Drivers must understand and comply with the applicable requirements of these regulations.

5.3 Fire Extinguishers

All trucks must carry at least one approved fire extinguisher rated at least 20 BC in compliance with Fire Codes.

During unloading, the fire extinguisher is to be removed from the truck and placed in an immediately accessible position near the driver during unloading.

5.4 Truck Pumps

Truck-mounted pumps can yield high pressures resulting in hose ruptures and fitting failures. The truck pump pressure-relief should be set to prevent excessive pressure.

Suggested maximum pumping pressure is 400 kPa (60 psi). This will allow pumping into above-ground tanks while not exceeding the working pressure of properly-rated hoses and nozzles.

The pump system should be tested periodically to ensure the pressure-relief is working and is properly limiting the pump discharge pressure.

The operating speed of the truck pump should not exceed the manufacturer's recommended speed which; in most cases, is 900 RPM.

5.5 Insurance

The following are four types of insurance generally available to drivers involved in oil transfer operations.

5.5.1 Automobile 3rd - Party Liability

Covers collision damage to others caused by the tank truck

5.5.2 Commercial General Liability (CGL)

• To cover products and operations
• Pays for damages due to negligence
• Pays for property damage (response-related activities) but does not pay for long term environmental damage

5.5.3 Cargo Insurances

• To cover the cost of lost cargo
• Also covers the cost of recovering cargo off the ground
• Not for environmental damage

5.5.4 Pollution Insurance

• Not covered by above policies
• Covers long term environmental damage

Most truck operators carry liability insurance but not all carry pollution insurance.

Carrier's insurance requirements are normally set out by the shipper of the product.

Date modified:

2019-07-26