What critical element should be evaluated during a tank closure assessment?

During a tank closure assessment, evaluating the site's soil condition and potential contamination is crucial because it directly impacts environmental safety and compliance with regulations. Closures often occur when tanks are no longer in use, and the focus shifts to understanding any environmental liabilities that may arise from past tank operations. Assessing the soil condition helps determine if there has been any leakage or spill from the tank, which could lead to soil and groundwater contamination. Identifying potential contamination early allows for appropriate remediation actions to be taken to protect public health and the environment. Monitoring soil conditions also ensures compliance with local and federal environmental regulations, guiding decisions about how to proceed with the closure safely and responsibly.

While the age of the UST, the design of the tank, and the volume of fuel stored are relevant factors in various contexts, they do not have as direct an impact on the immediate environmental concerns and regulatory compliance as the soil condition and potential contamination do during a closure assessment.