Running a gas station in New York comes with a host of responsibilities, including the upkeep of underground storage tanks. Properly maintaining these tanks isn’t just good practice. It’s also a legal requirement. Failures in this area could lead to serious legal repercussions.
If you own a gas station in New York, you must be particularly vigilant about UST corrosion. This is a common cause of leaks that can contaminate soil and groundwater. Consider these critical points about tank corrosion.
Understand the regulations governing USTs
In New York, USTs are subject to both state and federal regulations. These include periodic inspections and specific construction standards aimed at preventing leaks. Compliance isn’t optional. Failure to meet these standards could result in fines and legal action. Ensure you’re well-versed in what’s required to keep your tanks up to code.
Know the signs of corrosion
Corrosion occurs over time and may not always be visible during routine inspections. Some signs include unusual operating conditions like erratic behavior of the dispensing system or the presence of water where it shouldn’t be. If you notice such indicators, consult experts immediately to assess the integrity of your USTs.
Invest in corrosion prevention measures
Various technologies can prevent or at least significantly slow down corrosion. These include cathodic protection systems, which offer a means of controlling the corrosion of a metal surface by making it the cathode of an electrochemical cell. Installing double-walled tanks with interstitial monitoring can also provide extra security against corrosion.
Owning a gas station comes with significant environmental responsibilities, and the stakes are especially high in New York. Ignorance isn’t an option, and neither is complacency. Awareness of UST corrosion and its legal requirements can protect the environment and your business.
