Keeping Food Storage Tanks Safe

As we all know, Massachusetts’ weather takes its toll, causing ground shifts, frost heaves, rust and general wear, all of which can affect a heating oil supply tank and its piping. Weather, corrosion, and poor maintenance can lead to spills, smells, leaks, well water contamination, and lower property values.

Petroleum fuels contain several toxic compounds including benzene, toluene and xylene – all considered carcinogens. A gallon of spilled gasoline contains enough benzene to contaminate 2,000 cubic feet of soil or 10 million gallons of water. Even a small leak of one drop per second results in a spill of more than 600 gallons of gasoline a year.

This brochure contains a checklist of things you can easily observe about your oil tank, but remember, look – don’t touch. Even if you see rust or an oily patch of wetness on the tank’s surface, do not touch your tank. It’s best to call your licensed oil heat technician and let a professional take care of it.