Results from a 1999 survey of home heating oil tanks have been analyzed and, overall, it appears Islanders are hearing the message to check their tanks and replace older models that are at risk of leaking. However, there is concern that some new tanks were not installed properly and more tanks are being located outside where they are exposed to weather conditions.
Oil spills associated with poor installation and old above ground domestic oil tanks are a serious threat to soil quality, water quality and property. A survey conducted in 1998 indicated 46 per cent of home heating oil tanks did not conform with tank age requirements. When reviewing tank set up and piping, 39 per cent of the systems surveyed did not conform with current provincial government construction guidelines.
Last year, the Department of Technology and Environment conducted a comprehensive public education program to inform Islanders of correct installation and maintenance practices. The follow-up survey in late 1999 showed that the number of tanks that did not conform with age requirements decreased to 29 per cent. However, when looking at tank set-up and piping requirements, 41 per cent of the systems surveyed did not conform with this aspect of the current government construction guidelines.
While pleased with these results, Minister Mitch Murphy, Department of Technology and Environment, tempered the good news with concern regarding the number of improperly installed new tank systems.
"The number of reported spills from domestic heating oil systems in 1999 decreased to 208 from 230 in 1998. This number is still unacceptably high," said Minister Murphy. "Evidently, there is a need to continue our public education campaign emphasizing oil tank replacement with a broaden focus on proper tank installation. Without proper installation, we will not see a significant reduction in oil spills in the province."
The 1998 and 1999 surveys highlighted oil tank age as well as other areas of concern. In 1999, approximately 32 per cent (24 per cent in 1998) of oil tanks did not have a vent whistle or alarm which warns of possible overfilling. Most outside tanks (89 per cent in 1999 and 81 per cent in 1998) did not have weather protection over the oil line. In 1999, 40 per cent (54 per cent in 1998) did not display Underwriter's Laboratory of Canada labels indicating the tanks were manufactured in accordance with recognized standards. A positive note was the discovery that only 31 per cent of outside tanks were not on a stable base, compared to 47 per cent in 1998.
"Environmental stewardship in our homes and businesses is a shared community responsibility," added Minister Murphy. "In one year, Islanders have proven they respect and value our natural resources by making significant changes to their home heating oil tank systems. I anticipate that with a continued public education campaign more people will make that investment."
For more information, plan to visit the Home Heat Tank Safety display at the PEI Home Show in Charlottetown, March 3, 4, and 5 and at Showcase 2000 in Summerside, April 14,15 and 16 or call 368-5037.