Here at Lannon Tank, Inc., we pride ourselves on our attention to detail that we put forth for every tank we build for our clients. Beyond that, we are committed to acting as an industry resource for all things tanks. In the following article, we will a closer look at the UL-2085 and UL-142 standards and go over the similarities and differences between these standards. We will also discuss how to identify whether or not your tank complies with each of these standards, and the requirements for each.

Where do these standards come from?

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is the institution responsible for defining these standards, as well as setting state and local regulations. The goal of both the UL-142 and UL-2085 regulations is to reduce the amount of risk associated with hazards related to highly flammable and combustible liquids and also to keep the public safe. It is important to note that in order to store flammable or combustible fluids, adherence to either the UL-142 or UL-2085 standard is required.

What is considered a flammable or combustible fluid?

The following are considered flammable or combustible fluids according to the NFPA:

• Class 1A liquids such as diethyl ether, ethylene oxide, and some types of crude oils.
• Class IB liquids which include most forms of motor and aviation fuels, as well as lacquer thinner, lacquers, and toluene.
• Class IC which includes some paints, most types of solvent-based cement, and xylene products.
• Class II liquids which include diesel fuel (most common application for our generators) as well as paint thinner.
• Class IIIA which includes liquids for home heating fuels such as oils.
• Class IIIB which are liquids such as lubricating oils, typical motor oil, and cooking oils.

The UL-142 Standard

The fastest way to learn whether the tank you just acquired is in compliance with the UL-142 standard is by looking for a permanent mark listed on the tank. This mark should include the UL logo as well as state “Listed” on it. You should also be able to find the name of the tank’s manufacturer, control number, and further details about the tank’s structure and construction. If these details are not able to be found, your tank may not meet the UL-142 standard.

Some customized tanks will not have this information on the exterior of the tank. In this case, it is up to the owner to provide documentation to back up its ability to comply. To meet these standards, the following requirements must be met:

• The materials used to manufacture the tank.
• Specific design features such as the fitting and joints.
• Testing requirements to ensure the tank meets strength tests, leakage tests as well as buoyancy requirements.
• Marking requirements are also required to communicate whether the tank meets compliance requirements.
• It takes into consideration the intended use of the tank, venting requirements, and leak detection as well.

The UL-2085 Standard

You can think of the UL-2085 standard as UL-142 2.0. To meet the UL-2085, a tank must first meet all the UL-142 safety requirements. They must also meet requirements for the material to classify the tank as a protected tank. The tank also has to meet specific construction design requirements that ensure a two-hour, fire resistance and secondary containment are present. Lastly, it must provide protection from physical damage. To know whether or not your tank meets the UL-2085 standard, contact your local fire marshal. The reason we encourage this is that the specifications for meeting this standard differ geographically. By contacting your local fire marshal, you can know for certain.

Learn More

Fireguard tanks from Lannon Tank offer durability, reliability, and high performance. Designed for safety and long service life, Fireguard tanks are required to pass tests for 110% secondary containment, ballistics, and vehicle impact resistance. They are also compatible with both the UL-142 and UL-2085 standards. To learn more about Fireguard tanks, or receive a quote, be sure to reach out. We will be in touch shortly!