Underground Tank Removal

Process, Importance and Considerations.

Underground storage tanks (USTs) are commonly used to store petroleum products, chemicals, or other hazardous substances. Over time, these tanks can deteriorate and pose significant environmental and safety risks. As a result, proper underground tank removal is essential to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to prevent soil and groundwater contamination.

Why Remove an Underground Tank?

  • Leak Prevention: Aging tanks can corrode and leak, leading to contamination of soil and groundwater.

  • Regulatory Compliance: Many local, state, and federal laws require old or unused tanks to be removed or properly decommissioned.

  • Property Transactions: A buried tank can complicate the sale or redevelopment of property.

  • Liability Reduction: Removing a UST minimizes potential legal and financial liabilities related to environmental damage.

The Removal Process

Site Assessment

  • Initial inspection and investigation to determine tank size, contents, and condition.
  • Soil and groundwater testing may be done to check for signs of leakage.

Permitting

  • Necessary permits are obtained from the relevant environmental and local regulatory agencies before beginning removal.

Tank Cleaning

  • The tank is emptied of remaining liquid and cleaned to remove residual sludge and vapours.
  • Contents are disposed of in accordance with hazardous waste regulations.

Excavation

  • Soil is carefully excavated to expose the tank, avoiding structural damage to nearby areas.
  • Special equipment may be needed depending on the tank’s location and depth.

Tank Removal

  • The tank is safely lifted from the ground and inspected for holes or corrosion.
  • It’s then transported to a certified facility for recycling or disposal.

Soil Testing and Remediation

  • Post-removal soil sampling is conducted to check for contamination.
  • If contamination is detected, soil remediation or additional cleanup may be required.

Backfilling and Restoration

  • The excavation site is backfilled with clean fill dirt or gravel.
  • The area is restored to its original condition or prepared for future use.

Reporting and Certification

  • Final documentation is submitted to environmental agencies.
  • The property owner receives certification confirming the tank’s removal and site condition.

Looking for a reliable demolition team?

Dedicated to delivering projects on time and within budget.

GET A QUOTE