This standard was developed to guide the management of terminals and tanks in a manner that protects the environment and the safety of workers and the public. This standard is intended for petroleum terminal and tank facilities associated with marketing, refining, pipeline, and other similar facilities. This standard may be used as a resource and management guide by those responsible for such facilities and by those working on their behalf. This standard is a compilation of industry knowledge, information, and management practices for all relevant aspects of terminal and tank operations aggregated into an overview document comprising best practices. In instances where greater detail or additional information may be helpful or needed, this standard references other API publications or similar industry guides and standards. It is intended to be consistent with, but is not a substitute for, any applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

This standard covers the design, construction, operation, inspection, and maintenance of petroleum terminal and tank facilities associated with marketing, refining, pipeline, and other similar activities. It covers site selection and spacing, pollution prevention and waste management, safe operations, fire prevention and protection, tanks, dikes and berms, mechanical systems (pipe, valves, pumps, and piping systems), product transfer, corrosion protection, structures, utilities and yard, and removals and decommissioning.

The purpose of this standard is to consolidate a wide base of current industry experience, knowledge, information, and management practices into a cohesive standard comprising a range of best practices.