Guideline for the Dismantling and Removal of Underground Storage Tank

Underground storage tanks (UST) are used for storage of liquids such as gasoline, diesel, fumigants, solvents,  used industrial waste-water processing, sumps, pits, and other subsurface features that store, convey, or process chemicals and chemical waste.

Federal and State regulations prescribe strict design, operation, and decommissioning practices for USTs and other subsurface containers.  Many states mandate specific requirements including permits, containment, monitoring, inspections, and sampling for the UST and closure of such subsurface elements. In the event that said subsurface container has been determined to be leaking, the cleanup of resulting soil contamination is typically under the oversight of a local agency, As such, groundwater investigation and cleanup activities are typically regulated by regional water quality control boards.

Steps for UST Removal:

1. A layout of all cuts is done for Andersen Environmental examination and analysis before commencing the excavation work.
2. When the top of the UST is uncovered the remaining liquids are removed with special care from the tank.
3. In the event that UST and/or piping contain any additional unused petroleum product or oil, all such products are emptied prior to removal of the UST or piping.
4. Extreme caution must be used when excavating and removing the UST to ensure that no spillage of any petroleum product occurs
5. When the UST is empty, it is removed from the excavation with the aid of an excavator. The UST is then cleaned and inspected by a certified industry hygienist.
6. All piping, pumps, wiring, gauges and other equipment associated with the UST are also removed.
7. Andersen Environmental will excavate any soils impacted by petroleum hydrocarbons. The impacted soils are placed directly into trucks for immediate off-site disposal. It is the responsibility of Andersen Environmental to collect and have analyzed the appropriate waste characterization samples according to Sate and Federal guidelines.
8. If the samples return positive of soil contamination, it must be removed.
9. The surface is restored to prior excavation condition. Appropriate measures are taken to ensure that there is no difference between the existing surfaces and the restored surfaces.

Andersen Environmental is a full service consulting firm that is comprised of leading environmental professionals dedicated to providing effective solutions for our clients’ environmental needs.

By: Jorge Caicedo, Digital Marketing Manager