Underground Storage Tank Removal
Underground storage tank (UST) removal is a process that involves taking out an underground tank used to store hazardous substances, such as petroleum products or chemicals. This procedure is essential to prevent environmental contamination and ensure the safety of the surrounding area. Here are the general steps involved in underground storage tank removal:
Site Assessment:
- Conduct a thorough site assessment to identify potential risks and determine the extent of contamination, if any.
Regulatory Compliance:
- Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding UST removal. Obtain any necessary permits and approvals.
Tank Cleaning:
- Remove any remaining product and clean the tank to minimize the risk of environmental contamination.
Tank Purging:
- Purge the tank of any residual vapors or gases to make it safe for removal.
Tank Excavation:
- Excavate the area surrounding the tank to expose it. This may involve digging a pit to access the tank.
Tank Removal:
- Lift the tank out of the ground using appropriate equipment. Tanks may be cut into sections if necessary.
Soil Sampling:
- Collect soil samples from the excavation site to assess the extent of soil contamination. These samples are typically analyzed in a laboratory.
Site Remediation:
- If soil contamination is detected, remediation measures may be required. This can involve removing and disposing of contaminated soil or using other methods to clean up the site.
Tank Disposal:
- Properly dispose of the removed tank according to local regulations. This may involve recycling or scrapping the tank.
Backfilling and Site Restoration:
- Refill the excavation site with clean soil and restore the site to its original condition.
Documentation:
- Keep detailed records of the entire removal process, including soil sampling results, disposal receipts, and any other relevant documentation.
Post-Removal Assessment:
- Conduct a final assessment to ensure that all necessary steps have been taken and that the site meets regulatory requirements.
It’s crucial to work with professionals experienced in UST removal to ensure safety, compliance, and effective environmental protection throughout the process. Additionally, involving local environmental agencies or regulatory bodies early in the process is often a requirement.
Contact Angstrom Testing Services at 516-724-4574 to discuss leak testing to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
Underground Storage Tank Leak Testing
Underground Storage Tank leak testing (USTs) is a critical aspect of ensuring environmental safety and compliance with regulations. Detecting and addressing leaks promptly helps prevent soil and groundwater contamination. Several methods are commonly used for UST leak testing:
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Statistical Inventory Reconciliation (SIR):
- SIR is a statistical method that compares fuel deliveries, sales, and product in the tank over time to identify discrepancies that may indicate a leak.
- It requires accurate monitoring of fuel deliveries, withdrawals, and periodic tank measurements.
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Interstitial Monitoring:
- This method involves monitoring the space between the tank walls (the interstitial space) for the presence of leaked product.
- Double-walled tanks or tanks with secondary containment often have an interstitial space that can be fitted with sensors to detect leaks.
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Automatic Tank Gauging (ATG):
- ATG systems continuously monitor the fuel level and temperature inside the tank. Changes in these parameters may indicate a leak.
- Some ATG systems can also monitor the interstitial space for leaks in double-walled tanks.
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Groundwater Monitoring:
- Groundwater monitoring involves regularly sampling nearby monitoring wells to check for the presence of contaminants.
- It is often used in conjunction with other leak detection methods.
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Manual Tank Gauging:
- Periodic manual measurements of fuel levels can be compared to a baseline to identify any unexpected changes.
- While this method is less automated, it can be effective when performed consistently.
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Vacuum Testing:
- This method involves applying a vacuum to the tank and monitoring for pressure changes over time.
- A drop in vacuum pressure may indicate a leak.
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Hydrostatic Testing:
- Hydrostatic testing involves filling the tank with water or another liquid and monitoring for changes in pressure.
- This method is more invasive and is often used during the installation or repair of tanks.
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Soil Vapor Monitoring:
- Vapor monitoring can be used to detect the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the soil vapor above the tank or in the surrounding area.
It’s important to note that the choice of underground storage tank leak testing method depends on various factors, including the type of tank, regulatory requirements, and the characteristics of the stored materials. Regular monitoring and compliance with local, state, and federal regulations are essential for maintaining the integrity of UST systems and preventing environmental contamination.
Contact Angstrom Testing Services at 516-724-4574 to discuss leak testing to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.
Underground Storage Tank Closure
Closing an underground storage tank (UST) involves safely and permanently taking the tank out of service to prevent potential environmental hazards such as soil and groundwater contamination. The specific steps for closure can vary depending on regulatory requirements, the type of tank, and the stored materials. Here is a general guide to UST closure:
Regulatory Compliance:
- Understand and comply with local, state, and federal regulations governing UST closure. Different regions may have specific requirements that dictate the closure process.
Site Assessment:
- Conduct a thorough site assessment to determine the current condition of the UST, potential soil and groundwater contamination, and the need for remediation.
Notification and Permits:
- Notify the appropriate regulatory authorities and obtain any necessary permits for UST closure. Some jurisdictions may require advance notification and approval before starting the closure process.
Tank Cleaning:
- Remove all remaining product and residues from the tank. Properly dispose of or recycle the removed material according to regulations.
Inert Material Filling (Closure-in-Place):
- If closure-in-place is permitted, clean the tank and fill it with an inert material such as sand, foam, or slurry. This prevents future use of the tank and helps maintain its structural integrity.
Tank Removal (Closure-by-Removal):
- If closure-in-place is not an option or if the tank is damaged, the UST may need to be removed. Excavate the tank, ensuring proper safety measures are in place. Transport the tank to an authorized disposal facility.
Soil and Groundwater Remediation:
- If contamination is detected during closure activities, remediation may be necessary. This can include soil excavation, treatment, and groundwater monitoring to ensure that any contaminants are properly addressed.
Verification Sampling:
- Collect soil and/or groundwater samples to verify that the closure activities have effectively removed or treated any contaminants. Ensure that the site meets closure criteria established by regulatory authorities.
Closure Report:
- Prepare a comprehensive closure report documenting all activities performed during the closure process. Include site assessment results, closure-in-place or tank removal details, remediation efforts, and verification sampling data.
Regulatory Approval:
- Submit the closure report to the relevant regulatory authorities for review and approval. Obtain closure certification once the authorities confirm that the closure has been conducted in accordance with regulations.
Recordkeeping:
- Maintain detailed records of the closure process, including notifications, permits, assessments, sampling results, and regulatory approvals. These records may be required for future inspections or audits.
It’s crucial to involve qualified professionals with experience in environmental remediation and compliance with UST regulations to ensure that the closure process is conducted effectively and in accordance with applicable laws. Regular communication with regulatory agencies throughout the process is essential for a successful UST closure.
Contact Angstrom Testing Services at 516-724-4574 to discuss leak testing to ensure accuracy and reliability of results.