UST's Still Cause Wide Spread Contamination

Piping, spill/overfill and dispenser leaks associated with underground storage tanks top the list of items that are suspected as the source for much of the new contamination being discovered throughout the country according to the Environmental Protection Agency.

Underground Storage Tank System Upkeep

An underground storage tank system (UST) is a tank and any underground piping connected to the tank that has at least 10 percent of its combined volume underground. The federal UST regulations are designed to reduce the chance of releases from USTs, detect leaks and spills when they do occur, and secure a prompt cleanup. Read more about these regulations and the responsiblities of owners and operators here.

Safe Fuel Handling Practices

Safe handling of fuel is everyone's responsibility. You can take steps to ensure that your own safety and health, as well as that of those around you, and the environment, are protected.

Detecting Releases

All regulated tanks and piping must have release detection so that leaks are discovered quickly before contamination spreads from the UST site.

Cleaning Up UST System Releases

EPA's federal underground storage tank (UST) regulations require that contaminated UST sites must be cleaned up to restore and protect groundwater resources and create a safe environment for those who live or work around these sites.

LINKS/CONTACTS

EPA Office of Underground Storage Tanks Safe Fuel Handling Practices Detecting Releases Cleaning Up UST System Releases Remediation/Cleanup Technologies State UST Contacts

Remediation/Cleanup Technologies

There are several fundamental principles when it comes to selecting corrective action technologies. Selection of an appropriate corrective action technology is a site-specific decision, and there may be more than one technology that could be appropriate for a given site.