PREVENTIVE MEASURES
TO TAKE BEFORE A LEAK IS SUSPECTED OR CONFIRMED
- Make sure you are in full compliance with leak detection regulations.
- Make sure all employees know how to operate and maintain leak detection systems to minimize false alarms.
- Know what to do if a leak in an underground storage tank system occurs.
- Get to know pertinent people in the Division of Underground Storage Tanks so you will know whom to contact in case of a suspected or confirmed release.
- Get to know members of the local fire department and their emergency response capabilities.
- Obtain an environmental consulting company to ensure quick responses to a system release.
WARNING SIGNALS
OF A LEAKING UST SYSTEM
- Dispensing equipment and/or leak detection equipment begins operating erratically.
- Inventory discrepancies in excess of 1% of monthly throughput plus 130 gallons.
- Neighborhood reports of petroleum odors in homes, drinking water or sewage systems.
WHAT TO DO
WHEN A UST SYSTEM RELEASE IS SUSPECTED
- Check dispensing and leak detection systems for malfunctions.
- If equipment is malfunctioning, have it fixed or replaced. Keep accurate records for each UST system repair as long as it is in service.
- Report any suspected release to appropriate TN UST Environmental Assistance Center within 72 hours.
- Conduct tightness tests, or other appropriate tests, on all suspect tanks and piping.
- If tests indicate a release has occurred, report it to the appropriate TN UST Environmental Assistance Center within 72 hours.
- Keep daily logs documenting all actions taken on leaking UST system.
ACTIONS TO TAKE FOR A CONFIRMED RELEASE
Immediate actions:
- Stop and contain the leak or spill.
- Call local fire department to evaluate if explosive conditions are present.
- Remove vapors or fire hazards to ensure the spill or leak poses no immediate hazard to human health or safety.
- Begin removing free product, if it is present.
- Contact an approved corrective action contractor (CAC).
Short term actions:
- Determine extent of soil and groundwater contamination.
- If contaminated soil is excavated, handle it in accordance with TN UST Guidelines and Regulations.
- Submit an Initial Abatement Report to TN UST 30 days after a release is confirmed. Include all relevant information about the release and actions taken to mitigate fire and vapor hazards.
Long term actions:
- Based on information provided to TN UST, it will be determined if additional remediation must be taken.
- If additional remediation is necessary, submit a Corrective Action Plan to TN UST.
- Once the plan is approved, implement it to remediate soil and groundwater to applicable cleanup levels.
