Excavating, Sampling and Disposing of Oil or Gasoline Contaminated Soil

Did you know failing a tank test creates a NYS Spill Number?

If you have failed an oil tank test we recommend replacing the oil tank with an above ground oil tank. This creates is the best value for the money you will spend.

When you fail an oil tank test, also know as pressure or vacuum test, the tester must notify the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC). Once notified, the NYSDEC will assign your property a Spill Number. A Spill Number is like a case number used to reference your property and the actions taken. Once the Spill Number is assigned an investigation is required to find out if any soil or groundwater has been impacted and if further action is required.
This involves digging down to the top of the tank and checking the fittings, connections and piping. It can also lead to removing the oil tank, impacted soil, taking samples and sending the NYS DEC documentation of the actions taken.

If the breach is in the vent or fill, the top of the tank needs to be exposed and the piping replaced then a retest must be preformed.

If the breach is in the oil lines, the top of the tank needs to be exposed then the oil lines need to be exposed and replaced. Finally the tank needs to be retested.

If the breach is not found after replacing the vent, fill, oil lines and failing the second test the tank needs to be removed. After the tank is removed the pit needs to be inspected and sampled. If the samples come back with contamination remediation must be done.

In the end any single wall underground home heating oil tank should be replaced with an above ground oil tank. Even if the tank passes a tank test or subsurface analysis. For more information visit www.barrier.com or email [email protected]