The final rule removes Coast Guard regulations for tank level or pressure monitoring devices because devices that would satisfy compliance requirements remain unavailable.
The Coast Guard published a final rule in July 2005, suspending Coast Guard regulations for tank level or pressure monitoring devices with a request for public comments on the status of tank level or pressure monitoring technology development and other means of detecting leaks from oil cargo tanks.
Two comments supporting the Coast Guard’s suspension of the regulations for tank level or pressure monitoring devices were received. No new information on tank level or pressure monitoring devices or alternatives for detecting leaks into the water from single-hull tank vessels carrying oil or oil residue as cargo was received. Based on the public response to the suspension, the absence of new information regarding tank level or pressure monitoring devices or alternatives and the results of a Congressionally-mandated study, the Coast Guard revisited the feasibility and practicality of retaining regulations for tank level or pressure monitoring devices on single-hull tank vessels and concluded that it is appropriate to remove these regulations. This final rule follows consideration of public comments on its potential impact.
The final rule and related materials may be reviewed at http://www.regulations.gov, docket number: USCG-2001-9046.
