Understanding the Underground Storage Tank Removal Process

There are a number of risks associated with keeping unused, damaged or aging underground storage tanks on your residential or commercial property. Removing a storage tank requires extensive collaboration with a trusted team of excavation contractors in Jeffersonville, IN. Working with an excavation company that you can trust will help you ensure that your job is executed correctly, and that you’re not inadvertently exposing your property to a greater risk of contamination.

Underground storage tanks are typically used to store potentially dangerous or caustic materials, like gasoline, diesel or sewage. Because of this, excavation contractors in Jeffersonville, IN need to possess an in-depth knowledge of how to safely remove tanks before they can begin to dig out your old, damaged or unused underground storage container.

Removing an underground storage tank is a multi-step process that requires expertise, specialized tools and skill. Here is a breakdown of the process associated with storage tank removal:

• Government notification: First, you’ll need to notify your state, local and municipal governments about the work that’s ongoing at your property. Depending on the materials that the tank formerly stored, you may need special permits or authorization to begin the excavation.
• Product removal: Next, you’ll have to drain the tank of all of the materials that it formerly held. Be sure to follow all federal, state and local regulations that outline how to dispose of hazardous waste. You will likely need to hire a crew trained in hazardous materials handling.
• Inert the tank: During this phase, the tank must have all of its oxygen removed and replaced with a non-explosive gas, like carbon dioxide. This will make the removal process safer, and ensure that the tank doesn’t explode under pressure.
• Remove the top layer: First, the excavation contractors in Jeffersonville, IN will remove the top layer of soil and debris from the tank so that it’s exposed. This will allow crews to access the tank so that they can begin cleaning or disassembling the tank.
• Clean the tank: Next, the tank must be thoroughly cleaned. Depending on the age of the tank and the material that it held, different cleaning procedures may be necessary. All of the sludge from the bottom of the tank, however, will have to be carefully cleaned out and disposed of.
• Dispose of tank: After cleaning, the tank must be correctly disposed of according to all local and state regulatory requirements. Many municipalities require the tank to be disassembled on-site before being cleaned and disposed of.
• Manage soil: Finally, you’ll have to deal with any contaminated soil on your property. It’s common for old, unused and damaged underground tanks to cause soil contamination that requires professional remediation after tank removal.

For more than four decades, Estes Excavating Inc. has been a trusted team of excavation contractors in Jeffersonville, IN. We provide quality excavation and commercial demolition services to a range of clients. If you need assistance removing an unused, old or damaged storage tank from your property, reach out to one of our friendly, professional associates today.

Categorised in: Excavating Contractors

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