Underground Storage Services

Underground Storage Tank Solutions

Specialized services focused on the inspection, testing, and maintenance of underground fuel storage systems. Our comprehensive approach ensures tank integrity, leak prevention, and compliance with environmental regulations while protecting your business from the significant financial risks associated with tank failures.

Underground storage tanks require expert attention to maintain operational reliability and prevent environmental contamination. Through advanced testing technologies and systematic inspection protocols, potential issues are identified early before they develop into costly problems. This proactive maintenance strategy maximizes tank lifespan while ensuring continuous regulatory compliance.

Leak Detection Testing

Precision testing methods that identify even minor leaks before environmental damage occurs

Cathodic Protection Services

Specialized corrosion prevention systems that extend tank lifespan and integrity

Regulatory Compliance Monitoring

Documentation and verification of all required tank testing and inspection records

System Upgrade Consulting

Expert guidance on tank system modernization and technology improvements

Proper underground storage tank management is essential for both operational continuity and environmental stewardship. The comprehensive tank services include regular inspection schedules, detailed condition assessments, and proper documentation to support both operational reliability and regulatory compliance. With specialized knowledge of tank systems and environmental requirements, these services provide peace of mind while protecting your significant infrastructure investment and preventing the potentially devastating costs of remediation.

Our Underground Storage Tank Maintenance Process

Underground storage tank systems require specialized expertise for proper inspection and maintenance. The structured approach ensures comprehensive evaluation of all tank components while documenting compliance with regulatory requirements. This methodical process identifies potential issues before they develop into serious problems, protecting both your operation and the environment.

Our 4-Step Tank Management Approach

1
System Assessment & Documentation

Tank System Configuration Analysis

Record Review & Compliance Verification

Existing Documentation Evaluation

Risk Assessment Classification

2
Inspection & Testing

Precision Leak Detection Testing

Cathodic Protection Evaluation

Line Tightness Verification

Sensor & Alarm Function Testing

3
Maintenance & Repairs

Critical Component Maintenance

Early-Stage Issue Remediation

System Calibration & Adjustment

Equipment Upgrade Implementation

4
Compliance Documentation & Planning

Comprehensive Testing Report Generation

Regulatory Compliance Certification

Maintenance Schedule Development

Future System Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are answers to common questions about underground storage tank maintenance and testing. Understanding these aspects helps you better manage your fuel storage infrastructure.

Under Zimbabwe regulations, underground storage tanks require several different testing schedules. Leak detection monitoring must be performed monthly, with records maintained for at least one year. Line tightness testing should be conducted annually, while comprehensive tank tightness testing is required every three years. Cathodic protection systems must be tested within six months of installation and at least every three years thereafter. Additionally, spill and overfill prevention equipment should be inspected every 30 days. Following this testing schedule is essential not only for regulatory compliance but also for early detection of potential issues.

Several warning signs may indicate an underground storage tank leak. The most common indicators include: unexplained fuel inventory discrepancies, activation of leak detection alarms, water in fuel samples, presence of fuel odors around the facility, unexplained sheen on groundwater, dead vegetation near tank areas, customer complaints about fuel quality, erratic behavior of dispensing equipment, and unusual fuel consumption patterns. If any of these signs are observed, immediate investigation is necessary. Early detection of leaks significantly reduces remediation costs and environmental impact. Our testing protocols are designed to identify potential leaks before these visible signs appear.

Several specialized testing methods are employed for comprehensive leak detection. These include: statistical inventory reconciliation analysis, automatic tank gauging with continuous monitoring, interstitial monitoring for double-walled tanks, vacuum testing for tank system tightness, pressure decay testing for line integrity, tracer compound testing for precision leak location, hydrostatic testing for sumps and containment areas, and secondary containment testing. The specific methods used depend on your tank system configuration, age, and risk profile. Our technicians are certified in multiple testing protocols and select the most appropriate methods for your specific equipment to ensure accurate results.

Cathodic protection is an electrochemical corrosion control technique that protects metal underground storage tanks and piping from deterioration. By applying a small electrical current to the tank system or using sacrificial anodes, cathodic protection prevents the electrochemical reactions that cause corrosion. This protection is critical for extending the lifespan of metal tanks and preventing corrosion-induced leaks. Regular testing of cathodic protection systems is essential to verify they're providing adequate protection levels. For older tanks without factory-installed protection, retrofit systems can be installed to extend tank life and maintain compliance with current regulations.

The financial implications of underground storage tank failures are substantial. Cleanup costs for even minor leaks typically start at $10,000 and can exceed $1 million for significant contamination. Additional costs include regulatory fines (up to $25,000 per day of violation), third-party damage claims, business interruption losses, property value reduction, and increased insurance premiums. The total financial impact often exceeds ten times the cost of proper maintenance and testing programs. Many of these costs may not be covered by insurance, particularly if regular testing and maintenance haven't been performed. Regular professional testing and maintenance represent a small fraction of potential remediation costs.

Our Trusted Clients

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