Owning and operating an underground storage tank (UST) involves serious practical and legal responsibilities. These systems have the potential to leak, often going unnoticed for long periods, resulting in severe environmental damage and costly clean-ups. Understanding the common causes of UST leaks and having the proper detection mechanisms in place is essential for safety and compliance. Recent incidents highlight the ongoing risk and impact of underground storage tank (UST) leaks. Earlier this year, the state of Washington found a Chevron Station owner liable in a gas leak. In the past week, a petroleum spill at a Porter County, Indiana truck stop and a significant gasoline leak/explosion in Broward County, Florida underscore the critical need for vigilant management and maintenance of these systems. Considerations for Underground Storage The quality of installation is the most significant risk with new tank installations. Testing should be rigorous, and small leaks from pipes and fittings need to be repaired before concreting. For older steel systems, original installation quality, ground disturbance, and changing soil conditions are key contributing factors. Corrosion of underground fuel systems is a major source of leaks, particularly in old single-walled steel tanks without cathodic protection and steel pipelines. The risk of leaks […]