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Secondary Containment Testing

Product leaking from sumps, pipes, dispenser pans or spill buckets could result in substantial damage to the environment and potentially the drinking water supply.

Secondary containment systems provide important protection from leaking components in a fueling system.

Testing of secondary containment systems helps to ensure that the systems in place to contain any leaking product are working as designed and will, in fact, prevent fuel from escaping into the ground. Not only is such testing an important part of your environmental compliance plan, but it’s also simply a sound risk management practice.

We utilize a variety of testing methods that meet the technical requirements of tank, piping and sump manufacturers. Our innovative approach results in several key benefits:

  • Minimal Site Downtime – Most sites can be tested in several hours, with minimal facility shutdown required.

  • Minimal Site Waste – Using proprietary systems and equipment, Tanknology is able to greatly reduce the amount of wastewater generated during testing.

  • Single Site Visit – Some other methods require a second site visit after 24 hours to ensure no water level change has occurred. Tanknology can test most sites in a single visit.

To learn more, or to discuss specific compliance needs for your site, call us today at 1-800-964-1250.

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At A Glance
California SB 989:

This California regulation requires secondary containment testing at all new sites upon installation, within 6 months after installation and every 36 months thereafter.

All existing sites were required to be tested prior to Dec. 31, 2002 and every 36 months thereafter.

Technical Details
How we Perform Secondary Containment Testing:

Containment Sumps & Dispenser Pans – We conduct Accelerated Hydrostatic Testing of containment sumps and dispenser pans using the patented VPLT precision test system. VPLT can detect a leak of 0.05 gph in as little as 15 minutes. VPLT is third party certified and has been in operation for 10 years as a tightness test method for USTs. Our method has also been evaluated by a Professional Engineer to meet the California regulatory requirements.

Piping Secondary Containment – This test is conducted by pressurizing the annular space around the pressurized piping with nitrogen gas (typically between 3 and 10 PSI). All tests can be conducted simultaneously.

Tank Annular Space Testing – This test is conducted by sealing the annular space and then drawing a vacuum on the annular space. All annular spaces can be tested at the same time.