What action should be taken if cathodic protection systems fail?

When cathodic protection systems fail, the priority is to ensure the integrity and safety of the underground storage tank and its components. Immediate repairs should be made to address the failure and restore the effectiveness of the cathodic protection system. This action is critical because a malfunctioning cathodic protection system can lead to corrosion of the tank and associated piping, ultimately increasing the risk of leaks and environmental contamination.

After repairs, follow-up monitoring is essential to verify that the cathodic protection is functioning correctly. This step ensures that the system is adequately protecting the tank and that any potential issues are identified and addressed promptly.

Taking no action until the next scheduled inspection or ignoring the failure until a leak is detected can result in significant risks, including environmental damage and compliance violations. Conversely, notifying local authorities is generally not required unless there is a direct concern about leaks, which reinforces the primacy of addressing the issue through repair and monitoring as the best practice.