Fuel Tank Decommissioning & Removal Services

At Terralis, we understand the critical importance of responsibly managing redundant fuel storage systems. Whether you’re upgrading infrastructure, repurposing property, or ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, our comprehensive decommissioning and removal services are designed to meet your needs. With experience across a range of commercial and industrial environments, we deliver peace of mind through safe, compliant, and efficient tank removal.

Safety First – Lessons from Real Incidents

For Contamination, Remediation, and Sustainability

Tank decommissioning is not without risk. A real-world incident investigated by SafeWork NSW underscores the critical importance of engaging experienced professionals. In this case, a fire and explosion occurred because an underground storage tank (UST) was not adequately cleaned or purged prior to removal. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured, but the incident highlights the potential dangers involved when safety procedures are not strictly followed.

At Terralis, we use this and other real-world examples to inform our safety-first culture and ensure that every tank removal project is conducted with the utmost care and compliance.

Why Decommission Fuel Tanks?

Aging underground fuel tanks, especially those over 20 years old, present serious risks. These include:

Environmental Hazards

Corroded or leaking tanks can lead to soil and groundwater contamination, posing risks to human health and the environment.

Regulatory Non-Compliance

Environmental regulations in Victoria require appropriate decommissioning. Failing to comply can result in legal penalties and delays in development approvals.

Financial and Liability Risks

Contamination left unmanaged can result in future cleanup costs or legal liabilities, even after property sale.

Decommissioning old or unused tanks is a responsible and necessary step for any landholder, developer or business transitioning to new operations.

Our Comprehensive Services

Terralis offers a full suite of services to ensure safe and compliant decommissioning of both underground and aboveground storage tanks. Our services include:

Site Assessment & Testing

Preliminary investigation to evaluate the tank’s structural integrity and assess soil or groundwater contamination.

Tank Cleaning & Decontamination

We remove residual fuel, vapours, and sludge to prepare the tank for removal or inert filling.

In-Situ Decommissioning

Where tank removal is impractical, we offer inert foam or sand filling to stabilise tanks and prevent collapse.

Excavation & Removal

Our experienced operators manage the safe excavation and removal of tanks and associated pipework.

Soil Remediation

If contamination is detected, we undertake or coordinate remediation, including validation sampling and EPA reporting.

Regulatory Documentation

We supply detailed records of decommissioning works, including photographs, manifests, and waste transport certificates.

Tailored Solutions for Every Site

No two projects are the same. At Terralis, we adapt our methods to suit your site’s specific needs—whether that means restricted access, sensitive infrastructure, or integration with ongoing development works. We provide project-specific environmental management strategies to mitigate risk and ensure minimal disruption to your operations.

Commitment to Safety and Compliance

Terralis prioritises the highest levels of occupational and environmental safety. Our procedures align with state and federal regulations, and we continuously monitor updates to ensure our practices reflect current standards. All works are conducted in line with EPA Victoria guidelines, the NEPM (Assessment of Site Contamination), and relevant Australian Standards. Our team is licensed, qualified, and committed to delivering projects that are both safe and legally compliant.

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