Which installation method should be applied in areas with high water tables or flooding?

In areas with high water tables or flooding, anchoring is the most suitable installation method for underground storage tanks (USTs). This technique involves securing the tank to the ground using various anchoring systems, which helps prevent the tank from floating or being displaced due to buoyant forces exerted by groundwater or floodwater.

When a UST is installed in a high water table or flood-prone area, the risk of buoyancy becomes a significant concern. If the tank is not properly anchored, it can rise to the surface during flooding conditions, potentially causing environmental contamination or structural damage. By utilizing anchoring methods, such as concrete blocks, weight plates, or other anchoring systems tailored to the site conditions, the integrity of the installation is preserved, thus ensuring safe and compliant storage of hazardous substances.

The other installation methods do not provide adequate protection against the specific risks associated with high water tables or flooding. Firm placement may seem effective for stability but does not address the buoyancy issue. Burying the tank could theoretically provide some weight but may not be sufficient to counteract the forces of rising water. Sealing primarily relates to preventing leaks and does not help with the physical stability of the tank in flood scenarios.