Underground storage tanks can be dangerous for both the environments and inhabitants of an area they are in.
Despite their innocuous names, underground storage tanks can be dangerous for both the environments and inhabitants of an area they are in. They’re dangerous enough such that they are no longer in widespread use and are even considered a danger to anyone who lives in the area of one. While these underground storage tanks used to be an essential part of storing oil to supply heat and other energy to a home, they are no longer used in North America due to the dangers they pose.
Corrosion
One of the biggest dangers associated with underground storage tanks is the risk of corrosion. The surface of the oil tank can corrode over time, which may lead to deep, serious damages in the metal. That may not sound so bad, but excessive damage can then lead to oil spilling out of the tank. Because underground storage tanks are exactly that—underground—it can be difficult to monitor them to see if they are corroding or not.
Leakage and Spills
If underground storage tanks do begin to leak, you’ll quickly notice, which means the corrosion has already gone too far. Be on the lookout for spots of oil or corrosion of other objects. These are all indicators that the tanks, which were made of uncoated steel that gives way to easy corrosion, are beginning to wear down and demand the help of a professional oil tank removal company.
Contaminated Soil
After an oil leakage from an underground oil tank, the biggest threat is contamination. It’s a common problem that occurs from oil tanks getting older and beginning to spill or leak. Soil contamination will kill vegetation, make growing new vegetation difficult, and will even hurt wildlife or pets in the area. Finally, that contaminated soil also puts the inhabitants of that area at risk, which is why it’s very important that underground oil tanks around the country be removed in a safe, professional manner.
Oil Tank Removal
Whether an underground oil tank actually ends up leaking or not, it should be removed either way. Companies with experience doing this kind of thing are able to use high-quality tech to detect an oil tank, remove it, and ultimately dispose of it in a way that doesn’t further harm the environment.
Concrete Visions Will Get The Job Done Right
Concrete Visions has been working with clients for over 25 years. Our G&M Services installers are certified with the industry’s major firestop product manufacturers. As part of our firestop service, we can assess abnormal field conditions and, with the manufacturer’s technical support assistance, provide engineering judgments in a timely fashion to comply with contract specifications. Our Field Mechanics undergo ongoing training, including mandatory monthly safety meetings, weekly Toolbox Talks where safety and equipment information is shred, and trainings on safe work standards and safety best practices.