EPA created the Office of Underground Storage Tanks in 1985. They work under a Congressional mandate to develop and implement a regulatory program for underground storage tank (UST) systems. An underground storage tank system is defined as a tank and any underground piping connected to the tank that has at least 10 percent of its combined volume underground. The federal UST regulations apply to only underground tanks and piping storing either petroleum or certain hazardous substances. Georgia Tech is home to several USTs, as well as a few ASTs (Above-ground Storage Tanks). 

Often, USTs are discovered when performing site surveys as part of a demolition or renovation. We usually will be asked for information about these USTs, and frequently we will have to perform research to find historical information or closure reports. It is rare to find a tank that still contains a hazardous substance here on campus. 

If you think you may have encountered a long-since hidden UST, or have questions about any of our storage tanks here on campus, please feel free to contact us.