NOV Remove Tanks is not something an owner or operator of an Underground Storage Tanks wants to see when the Fire Marshal inspects their fuel facility. An NOV stands for Notice of Violation and when you get one it’s a serious matter. The next action taken by the owner/operator to address the NOV is extremely important. Communication with the Fire Marshal is highly reccomended and developing a plan immediately will be vital.
The Notice – NOV Remove Tanks is issued when certain conditions are not met. They may include but are not limited to the following: Out of Service Tank, Failed Tank Lining Inspection, or Cathodic Protection Not Maintained. Whatever the reason, the tanks must be removed.
In some instances removing the underground storage tanks is not possible due to the location and size of the tanks. In this case a Tank Abandonment or Abandonment In Place is your only option
The OSFM – Your Best Friend or Worst Enemy
The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) is the state agency responsible for regulating the tanks and within the OSFM, the Division of Petroleum & Chemical Safety manages the problems caused by the thousands of underground storage tank systems containing petroleum or hazardous chemicals. The division is the primary regulator of petroleum and chemical storage tanks through registration to ensure the protection of public health and safety.
Due to widespread use and propensity for leakage, Underground Storage Tanks are considered a significant risk to tank owners/operators, as well as prospective property buyers that may be unaware of abandoned and undocumented USTs.
Once you Receive a NOV Remove Tanks -Do Not Ignore, Delay or Postpone or you could be fined!
Below is a sample letter that owners/operators of underground storage tanks get when they Do Not address the situation of an NOV to Remove Tanks.
Re: Fire Marshal Order dated May 23rd, 2017
Facility No. 1-0000001/Cook County
Dear Mr. Fuel Facility Owner:
The Office of the State Fire Marshal (OSFM) has asked the Attorney General’s Office to enforce an Administrative Order issued against you on May 23, 2017 for the underground storage tank (UST) system at the above-referenced facility. According to the information provided by the OSFM, you did not appeal the Administrative Order and you have subsequently failed to comply with that order by removing the UST system or taking other necessary corrective action. A copy of the Administrative Order is enclosed. The Gasoline Storage Act imposes fines of at least $1,000 per day for the failure to comply with an Administrative Order.
Again, communication with the OSFM is highly advisable and the professionals there can assist you in getting started. Removing an Underground Storage Tank doesn’t have to be complicated. The OSFM website has a list of licensed tank removal companies qualified to do the job. It is important to find the right company to preform the removal and any associated Site Assessment that will be required.
Many companies are licensed to remove Underground Storage Tanks but few have the extensive experience in both the removal and environmental aspect.
Eagle Environmental Consultants, LLC is one of the few companies who can handle the entire process. From the tank removal to the environmental assessment and everything in between. As we like to say, “we’ve got you covered from the cradle to the grave.” The entire project will be handled by our in-house team and no portion of the job will be subcontracted out to another company!
For more information on our services or to discuss your NOV please call or text us at 630-346-5551.
