Primary Purpose: Containment of Spills
The primary purpose of a bunded tank is to contain and capture any leaks or spills of hazardous liquids from the primary tank. If the inner tank develops a leak, the liquid is captured within the bunded area instead of being released into the environment. This containment prevents contamination of soil, groundwater, and nearby water bodies.
Secondary Containment Volume
The size of the bunded area or secondary containment volume is designed to be sufficient to hold the entire contents of the primary tank. This ensures that, even in the event of a complete tank failure, the spilled liquid is fully contained within the bunded area, minimizing the risk of environmental damage.
Leak Detection and Alarms
Additionally, bunded tanks often incorporate leak detection systems. These systems are designed to detect any loss of liquid from the primary tank into the bunded area. When a leak is detected, an alarm is triggered, alerting personnel to the issue so that immediate action can be taken to address the leak and prevent further environmental contamination.
Additional Benefits:
Environmental Protection: Bunded tanks play a crucial role in protecting the environment by preventing hazardous liquids from escaping and contaminating the surrounding area, thereby mitigating pollution risks.
Regulatory Compliance: Many jurisdictions have strict regulations concerning the storage and handling of hazardous substances. Bunded tanks help organizations comply with these regulations by providing a reliable containment system for hazardous liquids.
Safety and Risk Reduction: Bunded tanks enhance workplace safety by reducing the risk of accidents, injuries, and fire hazards associated with hazardous liquid spills.
Cost Savings: By preventing spills and leaks, bunded tanks can help organizations avoid costly cleanup operations and potential environmental fines.
Conclusion:
Bunded tanks are valuable containment systems used to safely store hazardous liquids. They provide redundancy and ensure that hazardous materials are handled and stored responsibly, minimizing risks to the environment, nearby communities, and workplaces. Their implementation contributes to a more sustainable and safe environment for managing hazardous liquids.
