Removing an above-ground tank is a critical task that requires careful planning and the right expertise to ensure it is done safely and efficiently.
There are several reasons why you might need to remove your above-ground tank. It could be that your company no longer requires it, or the tank may have structural integrity issues that are beyond repair.
Alternatively, your company might be experiencing strong growth, necessitating larger or different types of tanks. Additionally, new regulations or changes in insurance coverage might require you to remove and replace the tank you currently use.
While you’ve made one decision - the above-ground tank must go - you now face a new one: Who will remove it? This question requires a thoughtful answer since your company is ultimately responsible for its safe removal.
The company you hire for above ground tank removal should have:
- Proper licenses, certifications and insurance
- Experience removing above ground tanks
- The right safety measures in place
- A stellar record of compliance
Proper Licenses, Certifications And Insurance
Checking a company's qualifications can feel tedious, but it is one of the most important steps when choosing a company to remove your tanks.
Because your business is ultimately responsible for the waste it generates, including the tank’s contents and the tank itself, it’s critical to ensure any company you are looking at holds all necessary licenses and certifications for not only the tank removal but potentially the hazardous substances contained within the tank. The company you choose should have the necessary experience to comply with local, state and federal regulations.
It’s also important to verify that the company has adequate insurance coverage, including liability and worker’s compensation. This protects you from potential financial losses in case of accidents or damages during the removal process.
A tank removal company should also be able to clean the tank if necessary before the parts can be disposed of, especially if the tank’s contents are considered hazardous. If your tank requires both cleaning and removal, it can be a more efficient process if you hire a company that can handle both steps. Otherwise, one company will need to sub-contract to another and the process may take longer than you anticipated and potentially more expensive. A top tank removal service should be capable of handling all the services - cleaning, removal and disposal.
Experience Removing Above Ground Tanks
When hiring a business to remove above-ground storage tanks, the company’s experience is a crucial factor to consider. A company with extensive experience in tank removal will have a proven track record and a deep understanding of the complexities involved in the process.
There are several steps that may occur during the above ground tank removal process, including:
- An initial assessment for potential environmental risks and access points for removal
- Permitting and compliance when necessary at the local and state levels
- Tank cleaning to remove any remaining contents inside
- Safety precautions to ensure any risks are mitigated
- Tank excavation, which may require the use of specialized equipment
- Cutting and disassembly, especially for larger tanks
- Removal and transport to a designated disposal facility
- Site remediation to address any possible soil contamination underneath
- Documentation and reporting, such as waste manifests and inspection reports
A tank removal company should also have specialized knowledge of the different types of tanks, their specific removal requirements, and potential challenges that might arise during the process. Experienced companies are better equipped to handle unexpected issues efficiently and safely, minimizing the risk of accidents or delays.
By choosing a company with substantial experience, you can have confidence in their ability to execute the job effectively, reducing stress and ensuring a smooth process from start to finish.
The Right Safety Measures In Place
Safety isn’t only about protecting the workers on site. It’s also about preventing environmental hazards and ensuring the overall integrity of the removal process.
A reputable tank removal company will have a comprehensive safety plan in place that addresses all potential risks. This plan should also outline the procedures needed to mitigate risks and respond if an accident occurs.
Before the removal process begins, a tank removal company might take several steps to prioritize safety, including:
- Site Assessment and Risk Evaluation: Conducting a thorough site assessment can help to identify potential hazards and evaluate the risks associated with tank removal.
- Safety Training and Certification: Ensuring all workers are trained and certified in relevant safety procedures, including hazardous material handling and emergency response, should be a top priority.
- Equipment Inspection and Maintenance: Regularly inspecting and maintaining equipment can help to ensure it is in good working condition and suitable for the task at hand.
- Environmental Safeguards: Implementing measures to prevent environmental contamination, such as containment systems and spill response plans, demonstrates that a tank removal company is well prepared.
- Emergency Preparedness: Developing and rehearsing emergency response plans will swiftly address any incidents that may occur during the removal process.
As you evaluate the ground tank removal companies you may work with, ask if they proactively implement these steps before the removal process ever takes place. If they do, it’s a good sign that the companies have a commitment to safety.
A Stellar Record Of Compliance
A stellar record of compliance is an important indicator of a reliable tank removal company. Keep in mind that compliance doesn’t only come at the federal level. It’s important that the tank removal process comply with local and state guidelines as well.
It’s important for your cradle to grave responsibilities that you work with a tank removal company that consistently adheres to regulatory standards and demonstrates its commitment to operating responsibly and ethically. Cradle to grave is the concept of managing a product or material from its creation (cradle) through its disposal or recycling (grave), ensuring that every stage complies with environmental and safety regulations.
A stellar record of compliance should include:
- Following industry best practices
- Obtaining necessary permits
- Maintaining up-to-date knowledge of regulatory changes.
A company with a strong compliance record will have documentation and references to support its claims. This includes proof of completed projects, inspection reports and any relevant certifications or awards.
By choosing a company that prioritizes compliance, you can have confidence that they will handle the removal process with the highest level of professionalism and care.
Removing an above-ground tank is a critical task that requires careful planning and the right expertise to ensure it is done safely and efficiently.