Underground Storage Tank (UST) Aging Infrastructure: Why 30+ Year Old Tanks Are a Growing Risk
Underground storage tanks (USTs) are built to last—but not forever.
Thousands of UST systems across the U.S. were installed in the late 1980s and 1990s to comply with early federal regulations. Now, many of those tanks are approaching or exceeding 30 years of service, bringing new challenges and risks for owners and operators.
If you’re managing an older UST system, it’s time to pay close attention. Aging infrastructure can jeopardize compliance, increase environmental liability, and threaten the operational future of your site.
Why Aging UST Systems Are a Growing Concern
1. Corrosion Risk
Even tanks with cathodic protection systems can degrade over time. Corrosion of tanks and piping increases the likelihood of leaks—often without immediate signs.
2. Equipment Failure
Key components like spill buckets, sumps, overfill prevention devices, and sensors wear down after decades of exposure to fuel, water, and shifting soil conditions.
3. Outdated Materials and Designs
Early-generation fiberglass and coated steel tanks may not meet modern secondary containment standards or be compatible with today’s fuel blends (such as ethanol-blended gasoline and biodiesel).
4. Environmental and Financial Liability
A single leak can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars in cleanup costs, civil penalties, and brand damage—not to mention loss of product.
5. Stricter Regulatory Scrutiny
State and federal agencies are paying closer attention to aging USTs. In some regions, regulators are requiring proof of system integrity testing or pushing for replacement before tanks reach critical failure points.
What EPA and State Agencies Recommend
The EPA recommends that owners of older UST systems:
Review the installation date of each UST and associated equipment
Conduct thorough inspections of corrosion protection systems
Regularly perform leak detection and secondary containment testing
Consider upgrading or replacing UST systems reaching the end of their design life
Maintain detailed records of all testing, inspections, and repairs
Pro Tip: Some states (like Florida, New Jersey, and Michigan) offer financial incentives for tank replacement before mandatory deadlines. Check with your state agency for details.
How PASS Can Help You Manage Aging UST Systems
At PASS Training & Compliance, we help owners and service providers manage aging infrastructure risks before they become costly disasters:
Harmonics: Track inspection dates, testing schedules, and service histories across your UST portfolio to spot aging risks early.
Symphonics: Empower service providers to document repairs, inspections, and upgrades in real time—keeping aging systems in check.
Opus: Train your team on the latest EPA and state requirements for operating, inspecting, and properly closing aging USTs.
Whether you’re monitoring a 10-year-old tank or a 30-year-old system, PASS provides the visibility, documentation, and training you need to stay compliant—and avoid costly surprises.
Don’t Let Time Become Your Biggest Compliance Risk
The best way to protect your business is to stay ahead of the risks aging infrastructure brings. PASS Training & Compliance is here to help you manage inspections, maintain compliance, and plan smart upgrades—before problems arise.
Because when it comes to USTs, aging isn’t just a number—it’s a call to action.
