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Start for freeIntroduction to Underground Storage Tank Removal
Underground storage tanks (USTs) are widely used for storing various liquids, including petroleum products and chemicals. However, when these tanks reach the end of their useful life or need to be removed for environmental reasons, a specific process must be followed to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the intricacies of underground storage tank removal, drawing on expert insights from Matt Selgrath, a project manager at EMS Environmental.
The Initial Steps of UST Removal
Before any physical work begins, there are several crucial steps that must be taken to initiate the underground storage tank removal process.
Notifications and Permits
The first step in the UST removal process is to notify the appropriate authorities. This typically involves:
- Contacting state environmental agencies
- Informing local government bodies
- Obtaining necessary permits from local municipalities
It's important to note that the specific requirements can vary depending on your location, so it's essential to research and comply with all applicable regulations.
Contractor Licensing
When it comes to the actual removal work, it's not just anyone who can perform this task. The contractor involved in the UST removal must be properly licensed. The licensing requirements are typically set on a state-by-state basis, meaning that:
- Contractors must obtain specific certifications or licenses
- These qualifications may differ depending on the state where the work is being performed
- It's crucial to verify that your chosen contractor meets all necessary licensing requirements before proceeding with the project
The UST Removal Process
Once all the preliminary steps have been completed, the actual removal process can begin. This process involves several key stages, each of which must be carried out with precision and care.
Removing Product from the Tank
The first step in the physical removal process is to empty the tank of any remaining product. This is a critical safety measure that helps prevent spills or leaks during the removal process.
Inerting the Tank
After the tank has been emptied, it must be inerted. Inerting is a crucial safety procedure that involves:
- Removing oxygen from the tank
- Replacing the oxygen with a non-explosive gas, such as nitrogen or carbon dioxide
The purpose of inerting is to reduce the risk of creating an explosive atmosphere inside the tank. This step is absolutely essential for safety reasons. Failure to properly inert a tank could lead to serious safety issues, including the potential for explosions.
Excavation and Removal
Once the tank has been safely inerted, the excavation process can begin. This involves:
- Digging around the tank to expose it fully
- Carefully lifting the tank out of the ground
- Cleaning the tank to prepare it for disposal
Tank Disposal or Reuse
After removal, there are two main options for the tank:
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Disposal: In many cases, the tank will be cut up and disposed of according to local regulations.
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Reuse: In some circumstances, tanks can be reused. However, this requires recertification, which can sometimes be more costly than removal and replacement.
The decision between disposal and reuse often comes down to cost-effectiveness and the specific condition of the tank.
Alternatives to Tank Removal
While removal is often the preferred method for decommissioning an underground storage tank, there are situations where this may not be feasible or advisable.
Abandonment in Place
In certain circumstances, a tank may be abandoned in place rather than removed. This option might be considered when:
- The UST is located beneath the foundation of a building
- Excavation could create structural issues for nearby buildings
To abandon a tank in place, a variance must be obtained from the state. The process for abandonment in place typically involves:
- Inerting and cleaning the tank in place
- Conducting sampling beneath or through the tank
- Filling the tank with an inert material such as concrete slurry or polyurethane foam
This method ensures that the tank is safely decommissioned without the need for potentially disruptive excavation work.
Post-Removal Procedures
The work doesn't end once the tank has been removed from the ground. There are several important steps that must be taken to ensure environmental compliance and proper documentation of the removal process.
Sampling Protocol
After tank removal, a thorough sampling protocol must be followed. This typically involves collecting soil samples from:
- Beneath each tank in the system
- Beneath product delivery lines
- Beneath dispensers
If groundwater is encountered during the excavation activities, it must also be included in the sampling protocol.
Analytical Testing
The collected samples must undergo analytical testing to check for any contamination. These tests are crucial because:
- They help determine if any leaks or spills have occurred
- The results must meet specific standards or action levels set by state regulations
- If results exceed these action levels, further corrective action may be required
Closure Report
Once all work has been completed and all test results have been received, a closure report must be filed. This report is a comprehensive document that typically includes:
- Analytical results from the sampling
- Disposal documentation for the UST system components
- A map showing the locations where samples were collected
- Any other information required by state regulations
The closure report serves as an official record of the tank removal process and its outcomes.
Regulatory Compliance and Standards
Throughout the entire UST removal process, compliance with regulatory standards is paramount. These standards can vary by state but generally include:
- Specific action levels for soil and groundwater contamination
- Requirements for sampling and testing procedures
- Guidelines for reporting and documentation
If analytical results exceed the established action levels, the site may need to enter the state's corrective action process. This could involve additional testing, remediation efforts, or long-term monitoring.
The Importance of Professional Expertise
Given the complexity of the UST removal process and the potential environmental and safety risks involved, it's crucial to work with experienced professionals. Experts in this field can:
- Navigate the complex regulatory landscape
- Ensure all safety protocols are followed
- Properly handle any unexpected issues that may arise during the removal process
- Provide guidance on best practices for environmental protection
Conclusion
Underground storage tank removal is a complex process that requires careful planning, execution, and documentation. From the initial notifications and permits to the final closure report, each step must be carried out with precision and in compliance with all applicable regulations.
By understanding this process, property owners and managers can better prepare for UST removal projects and ensure they are carried out safely and effectively. Remember, when in doubt, it's always best to consult with experienced professionals who can guide you through the intricacies of UST removal and help ensure full compliance with all relevant standards and regulations.
Whether you're facing a mandatory tank removal or considering proactive replacement of aging infrastructure, proper understanding and execution of the UST removal process is crucial for environmental protection, regulatory compliance, and site safety.
Article created from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pdbbyqPg964
