What does decommissioning refer to in relation to underground storage tanks?

Decommissioning in the context of underground storage tanks (USTs) refers to taking a tank out of operation in accordance with the regulations set forth by governing bodies. This process typically involves safely closing the tank while ensuring compliance with environmental protection laws to mitigate potential hazards. It is essential that decommissioning procedures follow specific guidelines, including emptying the tank, cleaning it, and filling it with an inert substance or sealing it in a way that prevents leakage and environmental contamination.

This definition and process are critical because improper decommissioning can lead to groundwater contamination or other environmental issues. Regulatory requirements exist to ensure that all potential risks are addressed during the decommissioning phase.

The other options do not capture the regulatory and systematic approach involved in decommissioning. For instance, temporarily using a tank for storage doesn’t relate to the concept of decommissioning; similarly, repairing a tank that is damaged or removing a tank and its contents completely focuses more on operations rather than the regulatory closure of a tank.