In general, USTs are required to be removed from the ground once they reach the end of their life. For some tank owners, however, closure in place may be an option. In both cases, the end of life process is focused on management of the entire tank system including the UST itself and all of its related piping. TSP has experience both in removal and closure in place.
The process for removing USTs is relatively straightforward. To remove a UST, the tank and its associated piping are removed from the ground and the excavation site is backfilled and compacted to meet the owner's requirements. Prior to excavating, the tank must be drained of product and sludge; this simplifies the removal process and prevents potential leakage from damage which may occur during tank extraction. Following tank extraction, sampling must be performed to verify that no product had leaked from the tank during its useful life. Finally, the tank itself may be recycled or disposed of in accordance with state and local regulations.
In situations where UST removal is not possible, or would cause nearby buildings/structures to become structurally unsound, closure in place may be an option. To close a tank in place, it is first drained of all product and sludge. The tank is then disconnected from its piping; piping will be removed to the extent possible, cut and capped if not. Once the tank is clear of its piping, it is filled with an inert material such as sand, pea stone, or some other form of flowable filll such as cement grout. Once closed, the tank faces sampling requirements similar to those for removed USTs.
Regardless of end of life requirements, TSP provides a complete solution for tank draining and sludge removal, tank extraction or filling, and performance of mandatory sampling to meet regulatory requirements.