What type of monitoring can be used for tanks that do not meet the new requirements?

Groundwater monitoring is a method that can be utilized for tanks that do not meet the newer regulatory requirements. This type of monitoring involves assessing the groundwater for contaminants that may have leaked from the underground storage tank. By checking the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other pollutants in the groundwater, operators can detect any potential leaks and assess the overall environmental impact.

This method is especially significant because it can provide an early warning system for leak detection and help ensure that the surrounding environment, including local water supplies, remains safe and uncontaminated. Groundwater monitoring is integral to an overall risk management strategy for older tanks that may not have the latest protective measures in place.

Other monitoring methods such as manual checks or visual inspections may not be as effective in detecting contaminants that have migrated from the tank into the surrounding soil and water. Vapor monitoring, while useful in certain contexts, may not provide the same comprehensive insights into groundwater quality as groundwater monitoring does.