If these tanks leak, they can contaminate soil and groundwater, resulting in costly cleanups and potential public health risks. In Europe, environmental regulations are stringent, and compliance is mandatory, particularly under the Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC), which emphasizes protecting water resources. Regular tank testing is essential to prevent hazardous leaks and ensure regulatory compliance, especially for tanks that contain dangerous substances.
The Importance of Tightness Testing for USTs
In Europe, the Water Framework Directive mandates the prevention of groundwater contamination, and USTs are key points of concern due to their role in storing potentially hazardous materials. Non-compliance with these regulations can result in hefty fines and costly remediation efforts. Data from multiple European studies indicate that up to 30% of older tanks exhibit signs of corrosion, putting them at risk of leakage. Groundwater contamination is a pressing issue, with an estimated 20-25% of incidents linked to leaking USTs, especially those storing petroleum products. These leaks threaten Europe’s drinking water supplies, as half of the population relies on groundwater for everyday use. Thus, efficient and reliable testing methods are critical to mitigate risks and safeguard public health.
Regulatory Compliance and Environmental Protection
European regulations, such as the Industrial Emissions Directive (2010/75/EU), also include provisions on minimizing emissions to soil and water through preventive measures like regular UST testing. Ultrasound technology, as utilized by the SDT340 TankTest, not only helps operators comply with these stringent regulations but also provides the added benefit of early detection. This allows operators to prevent environmental contamination before it occurs, significantly reducing long-term costs and potential fines.
