Environmental Regulations and Guidelines for Underground Storage Tank Removal
Underground storage tanks (USTs) play a crucial role in industries such as gas stations, manufacturing plants, and other facilities where large amounts of fuel, oil, or hazardous substances need to be stored. However, as these tanks age, they can become environmental hazards, especially if they leak and contaminate soil and groundwater. Removing underground storage tanks is a complex process governed by strict environmental regulations. This blog delves into the key environmental regulations for underground tanks and the essential tank removal guidelines to ensure safety and compliance.
The Importance of Underground Storage Tank Removal
USTs have been a cost-effective solution for storing liquids such as gasoline, diesel, or industrial chemicals, but they pose significant environmental risks. Older tanks, especially those made of steel, are prone to corrosion and leaks, which can lead to soil contamination, groundwater pollution, and health hazards.
Leaking underground tanks are not only detrimental to the environment but can also result in hefty fines, legal liabilities, and expensive cleanups for the property owner. Hence, understanding environmental regulations for underground tanks is crucial to avoid these risks and ensure a safe and lawful tank removal process.
Environmental Regulations for Underground Tanks
Environmental regulations for underground tanks vary depending on the location and the substances stored. In the United States, these regulations are governed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as well as state and local environmental agencies.
Federal Regulations
At the federal level, USTs are primarily regulated under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA), which establishes guidelines for the management of hazardous and non-hazardous waste. The UST program under RCRA was established in 1984 to address issues such as leaking tanks, improper maintenance, and inadequate monitoring systems.
The EPA’s Underground Storage Tank (UST) Program ensures that tanks containing petroleum or hazardous substances meet specific requirements to prevent environmental contamination. Key aspects of the EPA’s regulations include:
- Tank Design and Construction Standards: New tanks must be designed to prevent leaks, typically using double-walled tanks made of corrosion-resistant materials.
- Leak Detection and Prevention: Regular monitoring systems must be in place to detect leaks early and prevent environmental damage.
- Release Reporting and Cleanup: In case of a leak or spill, the tank owner must report the incident to the relevant authorities and begin cleanup procedures immediately.
- Closure Regulations: When a UST is no longer in use, it must be properly closed or removed according to strict federal guidelines to prevent further environmental risks.
State and Local Regulations
In addition to federal regulations, individual states may have more stringent environmental regulations for underground tanks. State programs often require additional monitoring, reporting, and testing beyond what is mandated by the EPA. Local authorities may also impose specific rules tailored to the area’s environmental conditions, such as protecting aquifers or sensitive ecosystems.
For example, California’s State Water Resources Control Board enforces stricter UST regulations, particularly regarding leak prevention, early detection, and rapid response to leaks. Other states may have different regulatory bodies or rules, so it is essential to consult with state and local agencies when planning UST removal.
Tank Removal Guidelines
Removing an underground storage tank is a highly regulated and intricate process. Compliance with tank removal guidelines is critical to ensure public safety and environmental protection, as well as to avoid costly fines or legal penalties.
Step 1: Initial Assessment and Planning
The first step in UST removal is a thorough assessment of the tank and its surroundings. This includes evaluating the tank’s size, contents, location, and condition. If the tank is old or abandoned, the condition of the surrounding soil and groundwater may also need to be assessed to determine if contamination is present.
Important planning considerations:
- Contact the local regulatory agency to determine the required permits and regulations for tank removal in the area.
- Identify the type of materials stored in the tank and assess any potential hazards.
- Determine whether there is contamination, and if so, develop a remediation plan for addressing it.
Step 2: Obtaining Permits
Before removing a UST, the property owner or contractor must obtain the necessary permits from local environmental authorities. This process may involve submitting detailed plans, site assessments, and risk evaluations. Some states require specific certifications for contractors to handle hazardous materials or perform tank removal.
Step 3: Emptying the Tank
Once permits are in place, the next step is to safely empty the underground tank of its contents. This involves draining any remaining liquids and cleaning out residues or sludge that may still be inside. The materials removed from the tank must be disposed of according to hazardous waste regulations, which often involve transportation to an approved waste disposal facility.
Step 4: Excavation and Removal
Excavation is the most visible part of the tank removal process. Heavy equipment, such as excavators, is used to carefully dig around the tank and expose it without damaging nearby structures or utilities.
Once exposed, the tank is lifted from the ground and transported to a certified disposal or recycling facility. In some cases, the tank may be cleaned on-site and repurposed, depending on the material it was made of and the substances it stored.
Step 5: Soil and Groundwater Testing
After the tank is removed, the soil and groundwater around the former tank site must be tested for contamination. This step is essential, as leaking tanks may have caused pollutants to spread into the surrounding environment.
If contamination is detected, a cleanup plan must be implemented. Remediation can involve removing and replacing contaminated soil, treating groundwater, or implementing long-term monitoring and risk mitigation strategies.
Step 6: Backfilling and Site Restoration
Once the site has been cleared and any contamination has been addressed, the area must be backfilled with clean soil and restored to its original condition. This step helps prevent safety hazards, such as sinkholes, and ensures that the site is safe for future use.
Step 7: Final Inspection and Certification
The final step in the UST removal process is a thorough inspection by local environmental authorities to ensure that the tank was removed according to regulatory standards and that no environmental hazards remain. Once approved, the property owner will receive a certificate of closure, confirming that the tank has been properly removed and the site has been decontaminated if necessary.
Key Considerations for UST Removal
Working with Licensed Contractors
Underground storage tank removal is a specialized field that requires trained professionals. It’s crucial to hire licensed contractors who are familiar with both federal and local tank removal guidelines and who can manage hazardous materials safely.
Environmental Liability
Property owners should be aware that they are responsible for any contamination resulting from leaking USTs, even after the tank has been removed. This liability can extend to soil and groundwater cleanup, and in some cases, owners can be held responsible for contamination that affects neighboring properties.
In some regions, there are government programs or insurance options that can help cover the cost of cleanup and remediation, so it’s worth researching available resources to manage these potential risks.
Maintaining Documentation
Throughout the tank removal process, it is important to maintain detailed records, including permits, testing results, and disposal receipts. These documents may be required by regulatory authorities and can serve as proof of compliance, helping to protect against future legal liabilities.
Conclusion
Removing underground storage tanks is a critical step in protecting the environment from potential hazards. Understanding the environmental regulations for underground tanks and adhering to tank removal guidelines is essential for ensuring the process is carried out safely and in compliance with the law. Whether you are a property owner looking to remove an old UST or a contractor working in the industry, following these regulations not only prevents environmental damage but also mitigates financial and legal risks. By staying informed and working with licensed professionals, you can help safeguard both your property and the environment.