You have been hired as a consultant by your town’s emergency management coordinator to help develop emergency action plans. One of the reasons you were selected is your expertise in using the General Behavior Model (GEBMO) to assess risks. Your first task is to assess the hazardous material risks at a local gas station. The station has one

30,000-gallon underground storage tank compartmentalized to hold 10,000 gallons each of the three gasoline grades, and there is one additional 10,000-gallon tank for diesel fuel. The station has four pumps, and each one can deliver all four products. Also on site is a 2,500 sq. ft. concrete block building used for the cashier and retail sales of service station and convenience store items.

The station is located at a busy intersection near the center of town. It is adjacent to several other local businesses that do a brisk business during the day. Across the street from the station is a large housing development with an elementary school. Behind the station is a city park with playgrounds, baseball fields, and a large wooded area.

Use the GEBMO framework to assess the risks related to the fuels in the underground tanks. Consider physical, chemical, and natural hazards that may contribute to the risks.

1.   Discuss how you applied each of the steps in the GEBMO process and what risks you identified.

2.   Provide recommendations for preventing spills or releases.

3.   Discuss response actions required in the event of a spill or release.