Land

Underground storage tanks

There are approximately 27,000 underground storage tanks at sites operated across Canada.

At most retail sites, these underground tanks store motor fuels such as gasoline and diesel. Storing gasoline and diesel underground makes sense — as the tanks substantially minimize the risk of fire and explosion. Although the risk of fire and explosion is reduced, strict protocol must be followed to detect and prevent possible leaks, which have the potential to contaminate soil and groundwater.

Since the 1970s, an industry priority has been to significantly reduce leaks from underground storage tanks and piping used at retail service stations. The following are some of the ways companies prevent leaks:

• tank and piping upgrades, including the use of fibreglass-reinforced plastic, to protect against corrosion
• regular monitoring of wells to detect the presence of hydrocarbons in soil and groundwater
• electronic inventory systems that allow for early detection of product losses
• staff training on leak detection and prevention