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Aboveground Storage Tank Inspection Checklist – What constitutes an “unsatisfactory” condition?

Do you know about code requirements and what constitutes an “unsatisfactory” condition? Do you notice any leaks, cracks, holes, rust, bulges, dents, residues, stains or other visual evidence of a problem?

It is important to conduct routine/periodic Aboveground Storage Tank (AST) inspections to help keep the tanks, piping, fittings and venting in good working order, minimize risk and run efficiently. Thorough tank inspections are essential to proactively identify and fix potential problems which may lead to tank failure, environmental contamination, workplace injuries and business interruptions.

Use these guidelines for most assets:

  • Monthly Routine in-service inspections
  • Annual Routine in-service inspections by tank owner or certified external inspector
  • 5-year inspection undertaken by a certified external inspector
    • Consider having 3rd party inspectors also conduct a brief training session discussing Routine/Periodic inspection procedures while on site performing inspections, prior to demobilization.

These items should be included in Routine Inspections performed by the tank owner/plant personnel:

MONTHLY ROUTINE STORAGE TANK INSPECTIONS

    1. Visual Inspections
      • Are the tank’s interior and exterior shell plates in good condition?
      • Is the above-ground piping in good condition?
      • Is the tank’s bottom plate in good condition?
      • Is the fixed/floating roof in good condition?
      • Are the foundations and supports in good condition?
      • Is the secondary containment system in good condition?
      • Is the collision protection system in good condition?
    1. Containment Areas
      • Are the drain valves in a closed position?
      • Is the containment area free of standing water?
      • Is the containment area clear of fire hazards and debris?
      • Are level gauges and alarms intact and functioning?
    1. Leak Detection System
      • Are the tank and piping intact, without any evidence of release?
      • Is the leak detection system being monitored?
      • Is the containment area clear of regulated substances?
      • Is the ancillary equipment intact, without any evidence of release?
    1. Ancillary Equipment (if installed)
      • Is the monitoring device functioning properly?
      • Are the valves functioning properly?
      • Are the vents clear of obstructions?
      • Is the overfill prevention system operating properly?
    1. Safety Precautions
      • Are safety precaution instructions posted?
      • Is safety equipment in place and operational?
      • Is the tank system secured to prevent vandalism and unauthorized access?
      • Is the tank system protected against vehicular damage?
      • Are ladders, stairs and platforms safe and secure?

ANNUAL ROUTINE STORAGE TANK INSPECTIONS – this supplements the monthly checklist:

    1. Fencing and Access
      • Is the site securely fenced and locked to unauthorized entry?
      • Does the ladder have a vandal guard?
      • Is the ladder locked in a base bell?
      • Does the ladder have restricted access?
    1. Overflow Pipe Discharge
      • Is the flap gate in good order?
      • Is the overflow pipe screen intact and unclogged?
    1. Venting
      • Is the roof vent screen intact?
      • Are air gap seals present and intact?
      • Are all couplings present and intact?
      • Are there any blockages caused by nests or debris?
    1. Cathodic Protection System
      • Are all cathodic caps intact and closed?
      • Is the CPS inspection record up-to-date?

TTI’s Inspection Division performs API-653/570/510, STI SP001and Federal SPCC inspections, offering services nationwide to domestic to international industries. Our inspectors prepare and certify comprehensive reports to document inspections, identify future testing intervals and, if necessary, provide recommended corrective actions. 

If you have any questions or to schedule an inspection contact:

Alex Haq, Inspection Project Manager, at alexh@ttienv.com ,

Patricia Stock, Director of Inspections at patricias@ttienv.com

or Karen Buniak, VP of Business Development at karenb@ttienv.com