The above ground storage tank is a structure that many Americans have likely seen without knowing what it is ? or for that matter, how important it is. Steel storage tanks contain anything from liquid fertilizer to oil. Their durability and the quality of storage tank construction is what stands between the rest of the world and potentially-harmful ? but entirely necessary ? substances. It?s vital that these tanks are made by quality steel tank manufacturers. The reasons why are understandable once you know a few facts about the importance of field erected tanks.

1. A Leaking Tank Can Be Destructive

Again, the existence of field erected tanks and other tanks is not the problem. In fact, these tanks are quite valuable if properly constructed; if not, their contents can be devastating. March 2 saw at least 1,500 gallons of used motor oil leak from an above-ground storage tank located in Washington state. The oil leaked into the Yakima River, leading to at least 50 ducks, geese, and other waterfowl being covered in oil. This is the last thing anyone wants to happen, and could have been avoided had those responsible sought out a better tank manufacturer.

2. Long-Term Storage Requires A Certain Kind Of Tank

A mistake some make is assuming that every tank has the same durability. Some field erected tanks, for example, are made to hold product for more than 30 days but less than one year. Called ?temporary tanks?, these tanks will not last as long as others. This misconceptions and lack of information surrounding these tanks may lead some people to choose seemingly-less expensive options, not realizing that they?re meant for temporary use. In this case it?s not the manufacturer at fault, but the buyers ? that being said, it?s important to know that temporary tanks are an option for those with short-term storage needs.

3. Tanks Are Required To Have Secondary Containment Areas

An important requirement for all above ground storage tanks is a secondary containment area. These containment areas are required to have the capacity to hold 100% of the contents of the largest tank located in the containment area. If made of impermeable material, such as concrete or synthetic liner, these secondary containment tanks must be inspected on a weekly basis. Every other type of secondary containment area must be inspected every 72 hours, ensuring that no accidents will happen with the tanks.

The fact is that these tanks are completely necessary; when well-made, they do their jobs exactly as they should, and there?s nothing to worry about. But it?s important to make sure that they?re not only right for the job, but inspected regularly and up-to-code. That?s where human responsibility comes in, and with enough of that, these tanks are perfectly safe.