In many regions across Canada — particularly in Québec and the Atlantic provinces — above ground oil tanks are still being used to heat institutional and commercial properties, in addition to private homes.
While mostly a safe and effective heating method, above ground oil tanks present a number of
risks, among them:
- fire
- theft
- tank, line, or fitting failures
- oil leaks or spills due to wear and tear or overfill
Over time, oil tanks can deteriorate due to water damage that causes internal corrosion, resulting in oil leaks and spills that pose potential pollution and environmental risks. A leaking tank can contaminate wells and drinking water, soil and groundwater, storm water drains, sewers, and drainage ditches, as well as streams, rivers, and lakes. It can also cause unpleasant odours and lead to health problems in neighbouring homes and businesses.
A full 275-gallon tank weighs over 2,000 pounds…one litre of leaked oil can contaminate up to 1,000,000 litres of drinking water.
When a leakage occurs, oil remediation is not only difficult, it is expensive. To help prevent oil leaks and spills, protect the environment and avoid unnecessary costs, it is important to…
