Another 32,000 minor injuries are also avoided annually, according to the agency's estimates. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued a safety alert advising owners of liquid storage tanks to take precautions and prevent sudden ruptures. In the past two years, several liquid fertilizer storage tanks have ruptured and caused property damage and environmental contamination. All the ruptured tanks appeared to have had defective welds. To avoid this risk, facilities should evaluate their storage tanks for potential failure.
Owners can reduce the risks to tanks already in service through maintenance and inspection.
To minimize effects from possible tank failure, ensure that a secondary containment such as a dike or berm is surrounding the tank. Contact a Western Growers loss control consultant for more information. Safety and Loss Control Consultants Western Growers gives you access to knowledgeable, well-trained, bilingual professionals in agricultural safety and loss control.