In industries like energy, mining, landfills, and chemicals, the risk of hydrocarbon leaks and spills is an ever-present concern. When not properly managed, hydrocarbons can contaminate soil, pollute groundwater, and result in severe environmental and financial consequences.

At SAI, we specialize in professional geomembrane liner installation for hydrocarbon containment systems. With years of field experience across diverse environments and applications, we understand what works, what fails, and how to design systems that stand the test of time. In this blog, we’ll walk you through the best practices for hydrocarbon containment and how high-quality liner systems can safeguard both your operations and the environment.

Best Practices in Hydrocarbon Containment

1. Understand the Risks of Hydrocarbon Contamination

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand the stakes. Hydrocarbon leaks can:

• Contaminate soil and groundwater
• Lead to expensive cleanup and remediation
• Result in regulatory fines and legal action
• Create fire or explosion hazards
• Damage corporate reputation and community trust

Hydrocarbon containment is not just an environmental necessity, it’s a business imperative.

2. Select the Right Containment System for the Job

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution in hydrocarbon containment. The right system depends on the site conditions, type of hydrocarbon, and operational needs. Some common containment scenarios include:

• Secondary Containment for Above-Ground Storage Tanks: Geomembrane liners are used to contain leaks and spills. 
• Ponds, Lagoons, and Impoundments: Facilities storing hydrocarbon-impacted water or tailings require chemically resistant liners like HDPE or LLDPE to prevent seepage.
• Pipeline Leak Containment Zones: Lining trench zones helps prevent lateral migration of leaked product in case of a rupture.

We work with a wide range of liner materials—including HDPE, LLDPE, XR-5, and PVC—and we help clients choose the right one based on chemical resistance, durability, UV exposure, and site-specific factors.

3. Design and Install with Industry Standards in Mind

Compliance with regulations is non-negotiable. Whether you’re governed by EPA’s SPCC Rule, or regional environmental agencies, your containment system must meet specific standards for:

• Impermeability
• Capacity
• Structural integrity
• Documentation and maintenance

Our team ensures that every installation is done in accordance with applicable local, national, and industry-specific regulations, and often exceeds them.

4. Proper Installation is Key to Long-Term Performance

Even the best liner material can fail if it's not installed correctly. We follow a rigorous installation process, including:

• Subgrade Preparation:
  Ensuring a smooth, compacted surface to prevent punctures and wrinkles.
• Seam Welding & Quality Control:
  Using proven techniques like fusion welding and extrusion welding, followed by non-destructive testing (air pressure, vacuum box, etc.).
• Anchoring & Ballasting:
  Preventing liner displacement due to wind, hydrostatic pressure, or mechanical damage.
• Site Documentation:
  Providing clients with quality records, as-built drawings, and maintenance guidelines.

5. Plan for Inspection, Maintenance, and Monitoring

A containment system is only as good as its upkeep. Best practices include:

• Regular site inspections for liner damage or degradation
• Implementing leak detection systems under or above the liner
• Vegetation and erosion control around containment areas
• Scheduled liner repairs or retrofits as systems age or site demands change
  
  

Our team integrates the latest tools and methods to ensure every project is delivered with maximum accuracy and efficiency.

At SAI, we know that hydrocarbon containment isn’t just about meeting regulations, it’s about protecting your site, your people, and the environment. With expert geomembrane liner installation, quality materials, and a commitment to best practices, we help clients across industries build containment systems they can trust.

Whether you’re designing a new facility or upgrading an existing one, our team is here to help. Contact us to get started.