The first thing that probably registers when you think about an oil tank is a large, cylindrical tank encountered at gas stations. However, one other type of oil tank is an underground oil tank that stores oil, fuel, and other petroleum products below the ground. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, around 542,000 underground storage tanks (USTs) nationwide are used for this purpose.
Although they are less common than above-ground tanks, USTs can cause severe issues if not correctly maintained or discarded. Removing them can be intimidating and challenging, requiring specialised knowledge and skills. You also need to follow safety protocols. Keep reading as we explain how to go about the process of removing your underground storage tank and why you should.
Tips for UST Removal
- Be Aware of Local Regulations
Your area’s local government is responsible for regulating USTs, so before starting the process, you have to find out about your area’s regulations. Ensuring you comply with the law and follow all the required steps is essential. It would be best if you also determined whether there are any necessary permit requirements for carrying out this task.
Paperwork can be time-consuming and expensive, so spend enough time reviewing all the documents. If your area has any special regulations or requirements, then you must be mindful of them and consider them in planning your UST removal job.
- Carry Out a Site Survey
Before removing a UST, it’s crucial to survey your site and perform some safety checks. There shouldn’t be any utilities going and running through the region, like electrical wires, water mains, and gas lines. You must also check for other existing environmental hazards, such as underground septic tanks or nearby water bodies.
- Hire Professionals
Since getting rid of a UST is a complicated task, you need experts with the right skills to commandeer and guide the process. Rather than trying to do the job yourself, hiring an underground storage tank removal service is recommended. They hold the experience required to ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently while following all the regulations. A professional company helps remove your UST with as little disruption to the environment and your property as possible.
- Plan and Check for Leaks
Removing a damaged or old UST entails being prepared to handle potential leaks. In order to deal with any spills immediately, you must possess the relevant absorbent materials and safety equipment. Additionally, before kickstarting the removal procedure, it’s crucial to seal the area around the underground storage tank appropriately. This is helpful for reducing the risk of dangerous chemicals leaking into the ground and settling into the surrounding groundwater or soil.
- Discard Contaminated Soil Properly
A leaking UST is likely to result in contaminating the soil around it. In this case, it’s your responsibility to dispose of the soil properly, as stated in the local regulations. You might have to work with a remediation company that assesses and cleans up toxic waste before the underground storage tank removal is initiated.
This is especially crucial if this material has the potential to harm the safety and health of residents around you. It is recommended to hire an expert to test the soil before and after the UST is removed because you can ensure that the area is safe for future use by adequately addressing all contamination problems.
Benefits of UST Removal
- Improves Home Value
A home with an underground oil tank can be difficult to sell as most buyers are concerned about its environmental repercussions on the property. Once you remove the UST, you can freely market your home without this potential liability and make it more attractive to buyers. Additionally, your property’s appearance improves because these tanks take up a lot of yard space and look unappealing. You can enjoy an open yard with more usable space by removing your underground storage tank.
- It’s Cost-Effective
Another advantage of removing a UST is saving a lot of money. A regular tank requires inspections, maintenance, and other associated costs. It is also costly to clean up leaks and spills, a risk posed at all times with an underground storage tank. You can help protect local groundwater supplies and play your part in being an environmentally-friendly citizen.
- Safety Against Potential Explosions or Fires
Tanks buried underground pose a constant, serious threat to your home and loved ones. Contaminated groundwater and soil not only lead to expensive cleanup costs but can also harm you and your family’s health because it increases the chances of an explosion or a fire. Your property may also be subject to damage, leading to the loss of some or all valuable possessions in your home.
Endnote
Removing an underground storage tank is no easy feat- it poses many risks and can cause serious harm if the necessary precautions aren’t taken. It’s in your best interest to work with a qualified professional who understands local regulations and the hazards involved in the removal process. This will help minimise environmental damage or the risk of injury. If you are unsure about getting rid of your UST, you should get in touch with experts for more information. They can assess and guide you regarding the benefits and problems of removing an underground tank so you can make an informed decision.
