What Does Fuel Tank Decommissioning Actually Involve? A Step-by-Step Guide

Excavation of an underground fuel storage tank during decommissioning at a Perth commercial property

Fuel tank decommissioning is one of those terms people hear without always understanding what it actually means in practice. It's not simply a matter of pumping out the remaining fuel and digging up the tank. There's a structured process involved, governed by Australian Standards and WA regulations, and when it's done properly you walk away with full documentation and zero ongoing liability.

Here's what the process looks like from start to finish.

Step 1 - Site Assessment

Before any work begins, Handy Fuel WA carries out a site assessment to determine the tank's location, size, construction type and current condition. For underground tanks, this may involve ground-penetrating assessment to confirm the exact position and depth of the tank and any associated pipework.

Step 2 - Purging and Gas-Free Certification

The tank is purged of all residual fuel, vapours and gases. Atmospheric gas testing is carried out to confirm the tank is safe to work in and around. A gas-free certificate is issued at this stage.

Step 3 - Internal Cleaning

The tank interior is thoroughly cleaned to remove sludge, water and any remaining fuel residue. This is a mandatory step under AS 4976-2008 and is essential for safe handling during removal.

Step 4 - Soil Sampling

Soil samples are taken from around the base and sides of the tank and submitted to a registered laboratory for hydrocarbon contamination analysis. Results are documented and included in the final decommissioning report.

Step 5 - Tank Removal

The tank is excavated, removed from site and transported to a licensed processing facility where it is cut, cleaned and disposed of in accordance with WA environmental regulations.

Step 6 - Site Remediation and Certification

The excavation is remediated and the site is restored as agreed with the client. Handy Fuel WA then provides a full written decommissioning report and certificate covering all works, waste disposal records, soil sample results and gas-free certification.

Handy Fuel WA carries out above and underground fuel tank decommissioning across Perth and all regions of Western Australia. Contact us to discuss your project.