To reduce oil spills associated with poor installation of above ground domestic oil tanks, the Honourable Mitch Murphy, Minister of Technology and Environment has announced the department is embarking on a comprehensive public education program to inform Islanders of correct installation and maintenance practices. A survey conducted last year indicated 46% of home heating oil tanks in the province do not conform with current government construction guidelines.
"Islanders are responsible homeowners, and once they are aware of the considerable threat old and poorly maintained oil tanks present to our water and soil resources, I am confident they will quickly take action to correct any problems that may exist in their home heating tank system," said Minister Murphy. Representatives from the oil and insurance industries will be working with the department to deliver the home heating tank safety message to the public. Installers of home heat systems will also have an opportunity to upgrade their skills through a one-day training course the department has developed in partnership with Holland College.
The survey conducted last year highlighted the age of the oil tanks currently in place as well as other areas of concern. Approximately 24% of oil tanks did not have a vent whistle or alarm which warns of possible overfilling. Most outside tanks, 81%, did not have weather protection over the oil line, and 54% did not display an Underwriter's Laboratory of Canada label indicating the tank was manufactured in accordance with recognized standards. It was also discovered that 47% of outside tanks were not on a stable base.
The public education program will cover all these areas as well as others designed to enhance the safety of home heating systems. Safety videos, advertising, displays and brochures will all play a part in the educational program. Also planned is a follow up survey of home heat tanks for late this summer.
"The intent is to inform Islanders of the environmental threat from home heat tanks and allow them to take action," said Mr. Murphy. "Environmental stewardship of our homes and businesses is an important aspect of being a good citizen. In the past, Islanders have proven they respect and value our natural resources and I anticipate the same reaction to this serious problem."