Looking for guidelines about underground storage tanks? Underground storage tanks (USTs) are crucial in many industries, helping store hazardous substances like petroleum, chemicals, and other regulated materials securely. These tanks are hidden beneath the ground, keeping dangerous substances out of sight and, more importantly, out of harm’s way.
Knowing who uses these tanks and why they are so important can help us understand their wide use and the responsibilities that come with maintaining them properly. Whether it’s for keeping fuel safe or storing industrial chemicals, USTs play a critical role in our daily lives.
In this blog, we will help to discover which industries use underground storage tanks, how they support environmental safety & why they chose these above ground storage.
Let’s get into learning more about who relies on these storage solutions and why.
Which Industries Rely on Underground Storage Tanks?
Underground storage tanks (USTs) are widely used across several industries, each relying on them for different purposes. These industries depend on USTs to store essential materials securely and efficiently, ensuring that operations run smoothly and safely.
Petroleum and gas stations
The petroleum industry is one of the biggest users of underground storage tanks. Gas stations, in particular, rely heavily on USTs to store large quantities of fuel.
These tanks keep fuel safe from evaporation and external contamination, ensuring that gas stations can always meet customer demand. The use of USTs also minimises the risk of fire and environmental pollution, which is crucial for the safety of both the station and the surrounding community.
Industrial manufacturing
In industrial manufacturing, USTs are essential for storing hazardous chemicals and solvents used in various production processes. These tanks help manage the large volumes of materials that factories and plants need to operate efficiently.
By keeping these substances underground, manufacturers reduce the risk of exposure to workers and the environment. USTs also allow companies to comply with strict environmental regulations, avoiding potential fines and legal issues.
Agriculture
Farms and agricultural businesses use underground storage tanks to store fuels, pesticides, and fertilisers. These tanks protect these substances from weather conditions and reduce the risk of contamination to crops and groundwater.
By using USTs, farmers can ensure that they have the necessary supplies on hand at all times, which is vital for maintaining the health and productivity of their farms.
Government and military
Government and military facilities also rely on underground storage tanks to store fuel, chemicals, and other critical supplies. These tanks provide a secure storage solution that is less vulnerable to attacks or natural disasters, ensuring that essential operations can continue without disruption.
USTs at military bases are particularly important for maintaining national security, as they store the fuel needed for vehicles, aircraft, and other equipment.
Airports
Airports use underground storage tanks to store large quantities of jet fuel, which is essential for keeping planes in the air. These tanks help manage the vast amounts of fuel needed daily while minimising the risk of fire and other hazards.
By storing fuel underground, airports can also make better use of their surface space, dedicating more area to runways and passenger facilities.
As you can see, underground storage tanks are a crucial component across various industries, each with its specific needs and uses. These tanks play a vital role in ensuring safety, efficiency, and environmental protection, making them indispensable in many sectors.
How Do Underground Storage Tanks Support Environmental Safety?
Underground storage tanks (USTs) play a crucial role in protecting the environment by securely storing hazardous materials, preventing them from contaminating the soil and groundwater.
These tanks are designed with multiple layers of protection, such as corrosion-resistant materials and leak detection systems, to ensure that the substances they hold remain safely contained. This is especially important for substances like petroleum, which can cause significant environmental damage if released.
Moreover, modern USTs are equipped with advanced monitoring systems that can detect even the smallest leaks. These systems alert operators immediately, allowing for quick action to prevent any environmental harm. By keeping hazardous materials out of the environment, USTs help reduce the risk of pollution and contribute to overall environmental safety.
In addition to leak prevention, USTs are also subject to strict regulations that ensure they are properly maintained and regularly inspected. These regulations require tank operators to perform routine checks and upgrades to their systems, ensuring that the tanks continue to meet high safety standards over time.
By complying with these regulations, businesses that use USTs can significantly reduce the risk of environmental contamination and contribute to a safer, cleaner environment.
Why Choose Underground Storage Tanks Over Above-Ground Storage?
By understanding the benefits of USTs, we can see why so many industries choose this option for their storage needs.
Space efficiency
Underground storage tanks (USTs) offer a significant advantage when it comes to space efficiency. Since they are buried beneath the ground, USTs free up valuable surface space that can be used for other important activities, especially in urban or industrial areas where space is limited.
This makes them ideal for locations where land is at a premium, such as city gas stations, airports, or manufacturing plants.
Safety from external elements
One of the biggest reasons to choose underground storage tanks over above-ground options is the added safety they provide. USTs are protected from environmental elements such as extreme weather, reducing the risk of leaks, spills, or damage.
Additionally, because they are hidden underground, USTs are less vulnerable to vandalism or accidental impacts, making them a safer choice for storing hazardous substances.
Reduced environmental impact
Underground storage tanks are designed to minimise the environmental impact of storing hazardous materials. By keeping these substances securely underground, there is less risk of contamination from spills or leaks.
Modern USTs are equipped with advanced leak detection systems and corrosion-resistant materials, ensuring they are environmentally safer than many above-ground alternatives.
Conclusion
Underground storage tanks (USTs) are crucial across various industries, including petroleum, manufacturing, agriculture, government, and aviation, due to their space efficiency, safety, and reduced environmental impact.
These tanks provide secure storage solutions that help prevent leaks and contamination while optimising space and resources. Whether for storing fuel, chemicals, or other hazardous materials, USTs are the preferred choice for many organisations seeking reliable and safe storage options.
If your business needs dependable underground storage solutions, contact Resolute Civils today to learn how we can help you with expert installation and maintenance of USTs personalised to your specific needs. Let us provide the security and efficiency your operations demand.
FAQs
Who primarily uses underground storage tanks?
Underground storage tanks are primarily used by service stations, industrial sites, and commercial entities to store petroleum products and hazardous materials.
What types of businesses rely on underground storage tanks?
Gas stations, truck stops, chemical plants, and manufacturing facilities commonly rely on underground storage tanks for storing fuel and hazardous chemicals.
Are underground storage tanks used in residential areas?
Typically, underground storage tanks in residential areas are used for heating oil storage, although their use is decreasing due to newer, safer alternatives.
How do underground storage tanks benefit commercial facilities?
They provide a safe and efficient way to store large volumes of hazardous liquids and fuels, minimising the risk of spills and contamination above ground.
What regulations must be followed when using underground storage tanks?
Users must adhere to stringent environmental regulations to prevent leaks and contamination, including regular inspections and leak detection systems.
Can schools and hospitals use underground storage tanks?
Yes, schools and hospitals may use underground storage tanks for emergency power systems, typically storing diesel for generators.