
The tank foundation, soil, and settlement conditions should be monitored. Vents, screens, manways, overflows, ladders and drain valves should also be inspected to prevent unauthorized access.

All aspects of the tank should be inspected for structural, safety, and coating conditions in accordance with API standards.
#API 653 STANDARD CATHODIC PROTECTION CODE#
The report should include a detailed evaluation with photographs, recommendations of needed repairs, code updates, and a detailed cost estimate for each item. Several features of an API tank need to be inspected regularly, and a written report should be provided to the owner after each inspection. The rescue team should be properly equipped and trained.Īfter all safety precautions have been addressed, the features of the tank and information needed should be determined. Tank owners should have a rescue team available no more than fifteen minutes from the site. Pulmonary function test, medical evaluations and respirator fit test should be performed on employees before entering the tanks.

This training requires ten hours of OSHA, Red Cross First Aid, CPA and BBP. A reputable tank company with proper training should be hired to perform the inspections. Many precautions are to be taken when inspecting a tank with such highly explosive and hazardous contents. It cannot be mixed or stored with other fuels. Ethanol, for example, reacts violently and explodes with several products. Serious injury or death could occur if the inspector has not received the proper information needed. The Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) can provide this information, and should be referred to before any type of inspections or repairs are performed. Researching and studying the characteristics of the product stored is essential, and could be lifesaving. API tanks must be inspected regularly, and accurate information must be obtained to prolong the life of the tank safely.

However, it is the tank owner’s responsibility to put these standards into place. These standards were designed to protect employees, the public and the environment. Photos provided by Pittsburg Tank & TowerĪmerican Petroleum Institute (API) created the API 650, 651 and 653 to provide standards for the safe storage of petroleum products. Ultrasound measurements can determine the rate of corrosion.
