HM 32. Guide to hydrocarbon management at petroleum product marketing and distribution terminals

Overview:

The control of oil loss, both real and apparent, is a critical objective in the management of petroleum product terminals. This document provides advice on operational and procedural measures for the control of both apparent loss (i.e. that caused by measurement errors and incorrect or inadequate accounting procedures), and physical loss at petroleum storage installations, including airports, where product is  received, stored, and despatched by pipeline, sea, road or rail systems. It excludes the storage and handling of crude oil.

This document offers operational procedures for each mode of product receipt and dispatch that, if observed, can result in accurate  measurement and effective loss control. In addition, it provides detailed guidance on stock control and loss monitoring procedures at storage installations, and advice on the settlement of measurement disputes that may arise in product transfer and storage operations.

HM 32 is an essential guide for managers, supervisors and operators, enabling them to acquire a sound understanding of the fundamental factors involved in oil measurement and the significance of each factor in the achievement of accurate measurement.