NC Department of Environment and Natural Resources
Environmental Assistance and Outreach - Spills
Environmental Assistance and Outreach
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StormsHigh winds and rising water from hurricanes and other storms can cause tanks to move off their support pad, or otherwise be separated from the fuel line, causing spills. Prevention TipProperly locate tanks away from flood plains and install tank tie-downs. Especially in coastal areas, ensure the system chosen is sufficient to hold the tank in place, or contact a certified vendor for assistance. Improperly Secured TanksASTs that are improperly secured to their foundations and mounts can slowly turn or roll. A wedge or block is not adequate support. Prevention TipMake sure ASTs are secured to the stand or foundation with proper tie-downs. Do not lean or stack materials against a tank. Avoid locations that might experience heavy vibrations from nearby traffic. Tank FailureCondensation and bacteria inside a tank can corrode the tank, causing leaks or tank failure. Prevention TipCondensation can be minimized by keeping the tank full and painting exterior tanks a light color to reflect the sun and prevent overheating. This has the added benefit of minimizing emissions. Commercial fuel treatments are available to reduce tank corrosion. Regularly inspect ASTs for leaks and replace ASTs as needed. New types of approved corrosion-proof ASTs are on the market today. A tank that is more than 25 years old is a candidate for replacement. Tank Support FailureTanks can topple over or collapse due to rust, loose fittings and nuts, or poor tank foundations that have eroded or settled. In basements, moisture, such as condensation, can rust metal legs or rot wood supports. Prevention TipSimple periodic inspections can ensure the integrity of the AST. Check to ensure the stand, slab and foundation are still in good condition and can support weight. Equipment FailureSettling of a tank or its foundation can bend the tank or fuel line. Prevention TipWell-designed ASTs use gravity feed and have shutoff valves at the tank or in the fuel line. Fuel lines and any associated pumps or valves should be included in all tank inspections. AST shutoff valves should be located where they can be easily found and used in an emergency or for maintenance. Spills and OverfillsSpills often occur during the filling process. Overfilling can causeproduct loss through the safety valve as the product expands onwarm days. Overfills need to be contained and cleaned up as soon as possible to prevent contamination. Prevention TipA simple tank overfill alarm can prevent overfilling. Keep the AST easily accessible and clear of obstructions for the delivery truck operator. Buried Feed LinesAST fuel lines are commonly buried in or under cement floors and foundations. The lime from cement can chemically react with copper lines and deteriorate over time. AST leaks under cement floors are difficult to detect and expensive to fix. Prevention TipConsider replacing any copper fuel lines that are in contact with cement with lines that are in a protective sleeve, or relocate the lines above ground where leaks can be more easily detected. AccidentsASTs can be damaged when bumped by a vehicle or by vibrations from heavy foot or vehicle traffic. Heavy items stored near a tank could shift and cause damage. Vandalism can also be a concern. Prevention TipCrash posts or earthen berms can prevent vehicle accidents. Areas around USTs should be kept clear and protected to allow regular inspections and prevent accidents or vandalism. |
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N.C. Division of Environmental Assistance and Outreach • Mailing Address: 1639 Mail Service Center, Raleigh, NC 27699-1639 |
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