|
James2
11-24-2005 09:02:39
|
|
Re: Diesel Spill in reply to B. Carll, 11-23-2005 18:00:45
|
|
| |
This is an issue at work because we operate experimental machines. Small spills can be left, the soil microbes will eventually eat the carbon up, although any heavy metal additives will remain. I'm not member of the Hazmat response team, but I believe a couple of gallons doesn't require cleanup, seems like the trigger point is over three gallons, but I could be wrong. The big problem is if it happens several times, since you are in a fixed location. You shouldn't have tried to use detergent to emulsify the fuel which could allow it to be carried deep. Like others reported, for large spills the dirt is removed and incinerated, which is very expensive. You could build a large trash fire, and slowly feed the contaminated soil in, which will do a pretty good job. If this ever happens to me, I probably will go this route. I'm not sure it's legal, but I would consider removing the worst dirt and spreading it far from the house, over a large area, which would accelerate the breakdown. Over a large area, any subsequent testing would not find any problem. In California, I'm sure this would be frowned upon. But as I said, small spills can be ignored. Replace with uncontaminated dirt. However, be sure to let the fuel company know this is the last mistake, or build a container around the tank to catch any spills as was suggested. It could require some effort on your part, and it depends on how much you like the fuel supplier. I personally don't like to use a heavy hand and slap someone whom makes a manageable mistake the first time. In my opinion, calling or threatening to call the authorities immediately, is just as bad as yelling, "I'm going to sue" for any small infraction. A more Christian attitude seems to be the better play.
|
|
|
