Underground fuel storage: how to manage a common pollution risk

Leaks from underground fuel tanks and pipework are a common source of soil and groundwater contamination in Australia. Many of the contaminated sites notified to the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) have involved underground petroleum storage systems (UPSS). There is a clear need for operators of a UPSS to guard against, monitor for, and fix fuel leaks promptly. This can reduce environmental impacts, save costly clean-ups and protect the public.