Buried Oil Tank Removal: When and How

Understanding Your Buried Oil Tank Obligations

Finding a buried oil tank on your property can be a surprise, but it's crucial to understand that its management becomes your responsibility, regardless of whether you're a new homeowner or have lived there for years. These tanks are subject to a strict set of regulations and codes, primarily governed by the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA). Failure to maintain these tanks properly can lead to significant environmental damage, making it essential to be informed and proactive.

The Importance of TSSA Registration

Before any action can be taken regarding your oil tank – whether it's filling, inspection, maintenance, or removal – you must first confirm that it is registered with the TSSA. Each registered tank is assigned a unique identification number. If you're unsure about your tank's registration status, the TSSA can readily provide this information. Should your tank not be registered, it's a simple and free process to rectify this by completing an online application form. Upon successful processing, you'll receive a registration number, which is vital for your fuel oil distributor to ensure an uninterrupted supply.

Aboveground vs. Underground Tank Definitions

To clarify regulations, the TSSA distinguishes between aboveground and underground tanks. An aboveground tank is defined as one installed at or above grade level, within a building or secondary containment, and not in direct contact with backfill material. This includes free-standing tanks in basements that meet these criteria. Conversely, an underground tank is described as a buried or partially buried tank in direct contact with the earth or backfill. Tanks in basements are not classified as underground unless they are in direct contact with backfill. Understanding which category your tank falls into is vital, as underground systems typically have more stringent guidelines that you must adhere to.

When is Underground Oil Tank Removal Mandatory?

There are specific circumstances under which your underground oil tank must be removed. If your underground tank has been unused for two years or more and you have no intention of using it again, removal is a regulatory requirement enforced by the TSSA. This measure is in place to minimise the environmental impact of potential fuel oil leaks. Historically, many homeowners were unaware of buried tanks, and neglected, leaking tanks could cause extensive and costly damage. The TSSA's regulations aim to prevent such scenarios.

Age and Removal Requirements

In addition to inactivity, TSSA regulations mandate the removal of underground oil tanks that reached 25 years of age as of October 2001. If you cannot determine the exact age of your tank, it is expected that you assume it has exceeded this removal age. In such cases, the tank must be withdrawn from service and either removed or replaced.

The Removal Process: Key Steps and Compliance

Arranging for the removal of your oil tank is a process that requires professional involvement. The removal must be carried out by a TSSA-registered fuel oil contractor holding a Petroleum Equipment Mechanic license. Once the tank is successfully removed, the TSSA must be notified. Furthermore, the property owner is required to obtain an Environmental Assessment Report, completed by a qualified professional. Should this assessment confirm a fuel oil leak, the Spill Action Center of the Ministry of Environment must be informed immediately.

Professional Assistance for Tank Removal

Companies like Waterline Environmental are licensed by the TSSA (PM2 and PM3) and are environmentally insured, often as members of relevant industry associations. They can guide you through the entire process, from providing quotes and managing the removal to undertaking necessary soil remediation if leaks are detected. Their expertise ensures that you remain compliant with all TSSA regulations throughout the project.

Essential Oil Tank Maintenance

To ensure ongoing compliance with TSSA requirements, annual professional maintenance of your oil tank is also expected. This maintenance should be performed according to the manufacturer's specific instructions to guarantee optimal care for your unit. The annual inspection focuses on the operational functionality of the tank, ensuring it is performing correctly and safely.

Comprehensive Inspections

Beyond annual checks, a more comprehensive inspection is mandated every ten years. This in-depth inspection is primarily focused on verifying that the oil tank meets all current TSSA codes and regulations, ensuring its continued safety and compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What if I discover an old, buried oil tank on my property?

Upon discovering a buried oil tank, your first step should be to contact the TSSA to confirm its registration status. If unregistered, register it immediately. If the tank is underground, unused for over two years, or over 25 years old (as of Oct 2001), you will likely need to arrange for its professional removal by a TSSA-licensed contractor.

Q2: How do I know if my oil tank is considered 'underground'?

According to the TSSA, an underground tank is one that is buried or partially buried and in direct contact with the earth or backfill material. Tanks located in basements are generally considered aboveground unless they are in direct contact with backfill.

Q3: What are the risks of not removing an old, unused oil tank?

The primary risk is environmental contamination from potential fuel oil leaks. Over time, tanks can corrode, leading to leaks that can pollute soil and groundwater. This can result in significant cleanup costs and potential legal liabilities.

Q4: Who is qualified to remove an oil tank?

Oil tank removal must be conducted by a TSSA-registered fuel oil contractor who possesses a Petroleum Equipment Mechanic license. It is also advisable to ensure they have appropriate environmental insurance.

Q5: What happens after the oil tank is removed?

After removal, the TSSA must be notified. You will also need to have an Environmental Assessment Report completed by a professional to check for any soil contamination. If contamination is found, further remediation steps will be required.

Choosing the Right System: The Atkinson Tanktop Outlet Valve

For those who still utilise oil-fired boilers, modern solutions like the Atkinson Tanktop Top Outlet Valve system offer enhanced safety and efficiency. This system is designed to draw oil from the tank safely, featuring a unique anti-siphon valve that only permits oil flow when the boiler demands it. Crucially, if the oil supply pipe is damaged or develops a leak, the anti-siphon valve automatically closes, preventing further oil loss. This innovative product simplifies installation by integrating the outlet and anti-siphon functions into one unit, eliminating the need for separate components. Key features include a floating suction pipe for cleaner fuel, a non-return valve, a 50-micron fuel filter, and an automatic diaphragm anti-siphon valve. It's important to note that most oil-fired boilers will require an oil-deaerator, and this system may not be suitable for gravity-feed appliances like Agas unless used with a suitable lift pump.

Dealing with Spills and Leaks

If you discover your oil tank is leaking, prompt action is essential. First, try to identify and stop the source of the leak if it's safe to do so, for example, by turning off a tap. Contact the Environment Agency's 24-hour emergency pollution hotline for immediate advice. Place a container under the leak to catch any dripping oil. Prevent the spill from spreading to drains, waterways, or nearby buildings by using absorbent materials like sand, soil, or old towels. Dispose of these contaminated materials carefully as they can be highly flammable. Never use detergents or a hose to wash away spilled oil, as this can exacerbate the problem and spread contamination. For temporary fixes on plastic tanks, soap can be rubbed into a split, but this is not a permanent solution. Inform your property insurers about the leak and consider having any new tank fitted by an OFTEC-registered engineer.

In conclusion, managing a buried oil tank involves understanding and adhering to specific regulations. Regular maintenance, prompt attention to leaks, and timely removal of old or unused tanks are crucial for both environmental protection and your own peace of mind. If you require professional assistance with oil tank removal or soil remediation, seeking out TSSA-licensed experts is the most reliable path to ensure compliance and a safe, clean property.

If you want to read more articles similar to Buried Oil Tank Removal: When and How, you can visit the Maintenance category.