Six Things You Need to Know About Aboveground Storage Tanks in Colorado

Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) have become a necessity for almost every industry. In-ground tanks pose several risks to both the environment and the people around them, which is why every state pushes companies to use aboveground storage tanks instead. However, there’s still a lot to know about these tanks, and there’s a lot of responsibility you need to undertake to make sure the tanks are safe, meet all the necessary regulations and laws and are well-maintained. If you have an aboveground storage tank in Colorado, or if you are planning to install one, here’s a few facts you should know about aboveground storage tanks and tank maintenance in Colorado:

• Secondary containment has become a standard industry practice: Both state law and federal law require that safety protocols be in place to prevent spills from an AST. The most common spill solution is a secondary containment system, a means of surrounding the primary AST with a collection system in case of a leak or spill. While installing a secondary containment system may come at an additional cost, it also gives you greater protection and more freedom when it comes to choosing where to install your AST.
• Your AST may be subject to fire rating standards: Depending on the substance contained in your AST and the location of your AST, you may be required to ensure that your AST meets fire rating standards. Check with your local authority for these guidelines.
• An AST is less expensive and more versatile than an in-ground tank: An AST is almost always less expensive to install then an in-ground tank, since it requires no excavation. In addition, your AST will be easier to move should you need to relocate it.
• Your tank should be compatible with the substances being stored: Water does not require the same type of storage tank as a hazardous material. The type of storage tank you use should be approved for the substances you need to store. An environmental specialist can often help determine what type of tank you should be using and where it can be installed.
• Regular inspections are required: Government regulations dictate that you perform periodic inspections of your ASTs to spot any potential problems before they become serious. You should always document these inspections. Specific recordkeeping is required by both local and nationwide regulations.
• Maintenance is the key to avoiding leaks and spills: Leaks and spills are preventable with the proper tank maintenance in Colorado. Having regular maintenance checks, even to remove debris and repaint the surface of your tank, is essential to not only meet laws and regulations, but to also avoid expensive and dangerous spills and accidents.

An AST can be a great asset to your company, as long as you follow regulations and keep your storage tank well maintained. For tank maintenance in Colorado, be sure to contact DJC Enterprises Inc. We’ve been providing expert tank maintenance services in Colorado since 1984, and look forward to working with you!

Categorised in: Storage Tank Maintenance, Tank Maintenance

This post was written by Writer