Aug. 26, 2008 at 1:36pm

Underground tanks face new rules

The Washington Department of Ecology is starting work on changing the state's rule for preventing leaks of gasoline and diesel fuel from underground storage tanks.

The 2007 Legislature directed ecology to revise the current rule to include recent changes in state and federal laws, and to improve compliance with the rule. The changes will help protect human health and the environment. Leaks from underground storage tanks can contaminate underground water tables, the source of drinking water for 60 percent of Washington's residents.

"The updated rule will help tank owners and operators learn how to better manage their tanks," said Mike Blum of the department's Toxic Cleanup Program.

Most underground storage tanks are located at gas stations. Others are owned and operated by other businesses and by local, state and federal governments.  

The department proposes to: require training for tank owners and operators, detail requirements for secondary containment systems on new tanks, piping and dispensers, and increase annual fees as specified by the Legislature.

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