Although the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) does not regulate aboveground storage tank (AST) systems, this information is provided for AST system owners to minimize any adverse impacts they may have on the environment and prevent potential petroleum releases. This information, however, does not replace any existing applicable laws or regulations. Guidelines and requirements from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other nationally recognized publications also are available at https://www.epa.gov/ust/aboveground-storage-tanks. Federal Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasures (SPCC) requirements must be followed as appropriate.
AST Owner Responsibilities
The cleanup of environmental spills or releases from AST systems are the responsibility of the AST system owner and/or property owner where the system is located. If you have or suspect a release, you should contact DHEC to minimize adverse impacts to the environment. For questions or additional information about this publication, please call DHEC at (803) 898-2544 or (803) 898-0589.
What causes AST system failures?
Petroleum releases from AST systems are often a result of:
- Improper installation
- Foundation/structural failure
- Containment wall deterioration
- Corrosion
- Inadequate protection from accidents and collisions with vehicles
- Vandalism
- Spills
- Poor maintenance
- Hazardous weather and flooding
- Improper or emergency venting
- Fire exposure
- Overfills during delivery of fuel
AST Maintenance Guidelines & Precautions
To avoid these problems, remember these guidelines:
- Routine maintenance for AST systems is essential to preventing releases.
- Precautionary measures should be taken during deliveries to avoid releases and reduce fire
hazards. - Periodic inspection of overfill devices should be performed to ensure proper function and
operation.
Immediate attention may be needed if routine maintenance indicates the following:
- Equipment or fittings are rusted, broken or contain peeling paint.
- Tank supports or walls are failing, bulging or buckling.
- A potential fuel leak is suspected due to hanging drips, a strong fuel odor at times other
than delivery or a sheen on water around or near the tank(s). - Stained soils, dead vegetation or dead animals are visible around or near the tank(s).
In addition to routine testing, periodic inspections are recommended especially during deliveries and dispensing of fuel to ensure releases do not occur.
AST Directory
Contact the DHEC 24-Hour emergency response line for accidental spills at 1-888-481-0125.
DHEC Report It Webpage
You may also report issues with aboveground storage tanks here .