How to Get Rid of Underground Fuel Tank
There are primarily two situations where you would want to remove an underground storage tank. It could be due to leakage or wanting to replace it because it is getting old. Another other reason could be that you have discovered an old tank buried on the property and the local law doesn’t give you permission to keep it.
Whatever the reason for removing an underground fuel tank, it is a tricky task. The local and state law can vary. It may be possible that your area has no rules and regulations for that or they may be strict about it. Your state may want to replace old tanks after a certain year of use or might give the order to remove only leaking tanks. In some places, old tanks are left in the state they are, oil is removed and it is filled with slurry.
It doesn’t matter what the state or local law says about old fuel tanks, removing them when necessary is always safe. Not doing so may cause big problems in the future such as causing a fire or can obtain a fine.
The process to Remove Old or Unused Underground Fuel Tanks
Notify State and Local Governments
This is a crucial step that needs permission from the local or state authority. The notice should be sent at least 30 days prior to the excavation and removal process.
Locating Fuel Tank Removal Contractors
It is always wise to look for multiple contractors and their quotes to remove an old tank. The contractor should have a proper license of removal and have a team of experts to safely take out the tank. The contractor should have experience with removing tanks. They should also meet all environmental regulations and safety guidelines while beginning excavation.
Removing All Remaining Fuel and Residue
An old tank may be the subject of leakage and can cause environmental pollution. Soil and water bodies near the tank can become contaminated. It requires the removal of fuel if any and all residue materials. Proper disposal procedures should be followed because the waste is flammable.
Inerting the Tank
Inerting the tank is an important process because it reduces the risk of mitigating the tank with an explosive situation. In this process, oxygen in the tank is replaced with nitrogen or CO2. These are non-explosive gas.
Excavation and Removable
After that excavation process, the removal process takes place. With the help of a big heavy load vehicle, the huge tank is removed. It may take hours or an entire day to remove the old tanks.