Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) for Electric Utilities

Oil and electricity do mix; dielectric fluid is an essential element in capacitors, voltage regulators, circuit breakers and other equipment. Because the risk of accidental oil discharge is high, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency requires facilities involved in power generation, transmission and distribution to develop, train and implement a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure plan (SPCC). This Video on Demand discusses what is required in the plan, and the role employees play in working the plan whether the oil leak is a minor drip or a large-scale release.

How active containment systems, including sized secondary containment vessels and impoundments work and how they should be maintained is thoroughly covered. The use of absorbents and booms as active containment and clean-up responses is explained. Viewers are reminded they should observe the condition of passive containment systems and report any cracks, gaps, holes or deficiencies in the barrier walls. A review of proper drainage procedures to remove accumulated rainwater or snowmelt from these vessels stresses the need to first inspect for oil sheens, discoloration or floating oil. Importantly, safety measures for working around energized equipment are reviewed, along with the use of proper personal protective equipment.

Catastrophic, large-scale discharges of oil can occur when facilities are struck by lightning, explode or catch on fire. This video alerts viewers to the type of information they will need to supply to the SPPC plan’s coordinator immediately upon discovering a large-scale discharge, and what steps can be taken to help mitigate damage while the emergency response team reports to the site. After viewing this training, workers will understand the importance of being aware of the dangers associated with oil, being sure they know the proper procedures for draining oil-containing equipment, being alert for discharge problems and potential vandalism, knowing how to respond to small leaks and drips and what to do if they discover a large-scale discharge. A knowledgeable, dedicated workforce will enable the power company to protect the environment and comply with federal law.

   This course is in the Video On Demand format, to read about Video On Demand features click here.

Those working in electrical power generation, distribution and transmission facilities, particularly those involved in equipment maintenance

• Introduction
• The SPCC Rule and Plan
• General Facility Operations
• Operation & Maintenance of Spill Prevention Equipment
• Discharge Procedure Protocols
• Summary and Conclusion

• Universal Waste
• SPCC By The Numbers for General Industry
• Storm Warnings: Storm Water Pollution Prevention