Why should you remove your petroleum tank? Having these tanks for years can be risky. They might release regulated and harmful substances that will lead to costly remedies and cleanup services. If you do not require and underground storage tank (UST) anymore, then it is best to have it permanently removed to avoid the risks. The process will have to require abiding by some of the laws. Read on further to know more about petroleum tank removal.


I. Application and General Requirements 


1. Petroleum technicians that are licensed are required to have a Permit to Remove. They can do this by applying at a local Regional Environment Office. Without it, any work done regarding the petroleum tank is not allowed. After receiving the Permit, a fifteen-day written notification is needed to be given to the Environment Officer before starting the work.


2. Petroleum tank removal is necessary to have conformance with the basic standards of the industry such as accordance with the health legislation and workplace safety, permit from the municipality, provincial requirements, and several building codes.


II. Tank Preparation


3. Because petroleum tanks can be hazardous, removal is not allowed until there is a less than 10% LEL reading of the combustible gas meter. A 5% reading of the oxygen meter with regards to the atmosphere inside the tank is also required.


4. After the removal, the containers are to have inspections for any perforations or holes that may be due to structural failure. These pieces of evidence are then photographed along with its locations for documentation and proof.


III. Removal and Disposal of Tank


5. There is a Tank Removal Report (TRR) that is needed to be filled up. The report includes the serial numbers on the tank.


6. The removed tanks can be made to offer ventilation, and also rendering it unfit for future use. Steel tanks can be sent to scrap dealers for recycling. Non-steel shells can be immediately crushed and disposing of it after. If the tank removed is an above-ground storage tank, this can be reused for petroleum storage or any allied products. However, this will have to be reported in the TRR and Application with Permit to Remove. Also, with proper testing and examination before the installation.


IV. Proper Waste Disposal


7. Hazardous wastes, such as sludge and liquid petroleum, are required to be under the Dangerous Goods Handling and Transportation Act.


8. If the water detected is not sanitary or is contaminated, inform the Environment officer for approval guidance on proper disposal.


9. Similar to water, an approval from the Environment Officer is required if there is any impacted soil that needs disposing of. Along with proper disposal is soil management – temporary soil storage. Before excavation, however, a Remediation Plan will have to be submitted.


Petroleum tank removal is not easy. There are heavy workload and machinery needed. Thus, processing the papers and getting all the general requirements done first is necessary for a faster pace. Knowing your limits and the laws required for tank removal will save you a lot of trouble.