Underground Storage Tanks Located in Chicago, IL

When purchasing or developing land which formerly was used for manufacturing or industry, determining any potential environmental liability is incredibly important. Underground storage tanks which were abandoned in place can be a significant environmental hazard, and discovering an unexpected UST can lead to a costly removal and cleanup. A GPR survey can determine whether any underground storage tanks remain in place from former site usage, and can often identify excavations where USTs had been removed. This information can be extremely valuable to a potential purchaser or developer.

Pioneer Engineering and Environmental Services frequently utilizes Ground Penetrating Radar Systems to scan sites which are suspected to contain USTs. At one former manufacturing facility on the south side of Chicago, soil testing had indicated the presence of toluene and other chemicals. Because underground storage tanks could be present, Ground Penetrating Radar Systems was asked to survey the site. The GPR survey revealed a cluster of six USTs, each of which could hold several thousand gallons of chemicals. The locations of these USTs were marked at the site, mapped with a GPS unit, and overlaid onto an aerial photo of the site. This information will allow any potential buyers to make an informed decision and avoid incurring unexpected liability.

Nathan Machel is regional director for GPRS operations throughout Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, and eastern Missouri. He is based in Chicago, IL and he can be reached by phone at 847-514-2277, 414-795-6485, or 608-250-0650 or by email at nathan.machel@gp-radar.com.

GPRS technician Nathan Machel scanned this former manufacturing site to search for evidence of underground storage tanks. The outlines of any USTs detected were marked directly onto the pavement. In addition to storage tanks, the GPR system is capable of detecting underground utilities, foundations, and other potential obstructions.