Underground storage tank testing is necessary for any company that uses or plans to use underground tanks, especially if those tanks hold hazardous liquids. Testing can identify any potential leaks and help prevent environmental disasters.
The underground storage tank test safety program requires that operators notify State regulators whenever there is evidence that a UST may be in violation of applicable environmental or health standards. Operators must also take prompt action to correct any violations identified. State regulators use this information to assess the need for additional UST inspections and enforcement actions.
There are three main types of tests that need to be done on a UST system: leak detection, crack detection, and microbial assessment. Each test has its own specific requirements and needs to be performed in a specific order.
1 Leak Detection Tests
Leak detection tests are used to identify whether there is any leakage from a UST system. The test uses water or gas to simulate a leak and measure how much of it escapes the system. This information can then be used to determine the severity of the leak and where it is located.
2 Crack Detection Tests
Crack detection tests are used to identify whether there are any cracks in a UST system. The test uses an acoustic or magnetic resonance technique to detect any changes in the sound or vibration caused by cracks in the system. If there are any cracks, they will be visible as well as detected by the test.
3 Microbial Assessment Tests
Microbial assessment tests are used to determine the level of bacteria present in aUST system. The test uses either water or gas to simulate wastewater discharge and measure how much of it is contaminated with bacteria.
Testing is carried out by qualified laboratories, who use a variety of methods to determine the tank's integrity and condition.