How Do You Decommission an Underground Storage Tank?
Underground storage tanks (USTs) play a critical role in storing fuels, chemicals, and other essential liquids. However, when a UST is no longer needed or reaches the end of its service life, decommissioning is necessary to ensure safety and environmental compliance. Decommissioning a UST involves a meticulous process to prevent leaks, contamination, and potential hazards. Here’s a step-by-step guide to how underground storage tanks are properly decommissioned. For professional underground storage tank removal in New Jersey and Florida, contact Herbert Lutz & Company and trust your project to a dedicated, seasoned professional.
Step 1: Regulatory Compliance and Permitting
Before decommissioning begins, it is essential to secure the necessary permits and adhere to state and federal regulations. In both New Jersey and Florida, UST decommissioning is governed by strict guidelines established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and state environmental agencies like the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. Consulting with a professional UST service provider ensures that all required documentation and approvals are in place.
Step 2: Site Assessment
A site assessment is conducted to evaluate the condition of the UST and surrounding soil. This step helps identify any potential leaks or contamination issues that may need remediation during or after the decommissioning process. Testing and analysis of soil and groundwater samples may be required as part of this assessment.
Step 3: Tank Emptying and Cleaning
The UST must be emptied of all residual liquids and vapors. Specialized equipment is used to pump out any remaining fuel, chemicals, or other substances stored in the tank. Afterward, the tank is thoroughly cleaned to remove sludge, sediment, and residue. This cleaning step is crucial to eliminate hazardous materials that could pose a risk during removal or abandonment.
Step 4: Decommissioning Method Selection
Decommissioning a UST typically involves one of two methods:
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Tank Removal: The most common approach involves excavating and removing the UST from the ground. Once removed, the tank is transported to a licensed facility for recycling or disposal. This method ensures that no buried hazards remain onsite.
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Tank Abandonment in Place: If removal is impractical due to structural or logistical constraints, the tank may be abandoned in place. This process involves cleaning the tank, filling it with an inert material such as sand or concrete, and capping it to prevent future use. Local regulations dictate when abandonment in place is permissible.
Step 5: Soil and Groundwater Remediation (If Needed)
If contamination is detected during the site assessment or decommissioning process, remediation efforts must be undertaken. This can involve removing and replacing contaminated soil, treating groundwater, or employing other environmental cleanup measures. Professionals ensure compliance with environmental standards to protect public health and the environment.
Step 6: Final Inspection and Documentation
After the decommissioning process is complete, a final inspection is conducted by regulatory authorities to verify compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. Detailed records, including permits, inspection reports, and disposal receipts, must be maintained to demonstrate proper decommissioning.
Why Choose Herbert Lutz & Company for UST Decommissioning?
With decades of experience in New Jersey and Florida, Herbert Lutz & Company specializes in UST installation, removal, and servicing. Our team of experts ensures every decommissioning project is handled safely, efficiently, and in full compliance with regulatory standards. Whether you’re dealing with a residential fuel tank or a large commercial UST, we have the knowledge and tools to get the job done right.
Contact Us Today
If you’re considering decommissioning an underground storage tank, trust the experts at Herbert Lutz & Company. Call Lutz Petroleum Equipment Installation in Florida at 954-971-5222 or Herbert Lutz Co., Inc. in New Jersey at 908-862-8888, or contact us online to learn more about our services or schedule a consultation. Let us help you protect your property and the environment with professional UST solutions.
