When a tank that has been installed for less than 10 years is upgraded with cathodic protection, tightness tests are required when?

When a tank installed for less than 10 years is upgraded with cathodic protection, it is essential to conduct tightness tests both before the installation and again 3 to 6 months afterwards. This procedure is crucial for ensuring the integrity of the tank following the enhancement of its protective measures.

The reasoning behind this testing schedule includes the potential for any disturbances in the tank's structure and surrounding area during the installation of cathodic protection, which could possibly affect its tightness. By performing tests prior to installation, any pre-existing issues can be identified. Conducting another test within 3 to 6 months after the installation allows operators to confirm that the tank remains leak-tight following the modifications, helping to prevent environmental contamination and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

This sequence of testing establishes a benchmark for the tank's condition before and after the upgrade, which is essential for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of the UST system.