What is typically utilized to detect leaks in underground storage systems?

Monitoring wells are a key tool used to detect leaks in underground storage systems. These wells are strategically placed around storage tanks to monitor groundwater for any signs of contamination. When a leak occurs, the products stored in the tank can seep into the surrounding soil and potentially reach the groundwater. Monitoring wells allow for regular sampling and analysis of the groundwater, making it easier to identify changes in chemical concentrations that could indicate a leak.

Unlike visual inspections, which may not provide sufficient information on underground leaks, monitoring wells provide direct access to groundwater data. Chemical analysis is also important, but it is often performed on samples collected from monitoring wells rather than being a standalone method for leak detection. Pressure gauges can help in certain circumstances, particularly for assessing the integrity of the storage system during operation, but they may not reliably indicate leaks like monitoring wells do. Therefore, utilizing monitoring wells is a comprehensive and effective approach to early leak detection in underground storage systems.