Education

The Importance of Tank Inspections

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that there are around 700,000 aboveground bulk storage tanks in the United States. While aboveground storage tanks are designed to withstand the elements, one fact remains: Left unchecked, tanks leak. Tank leaks can occur due to a variety of factors – faulty equipment, corrosion, and UV degradation, to name a few. At Environmental Works, Inc. (EWI), we take tank leaks very seriously, as they can lead to both environmental contamination and workplace injuries. We provide an all-inclusive approach to tank management, conducting regular inspections, offering repair guidelines, and completing onsite remediation for clients across the country.

The Importance of Tank Inspections

Why Tank Inspections Matter

A tank leak can lead to a number of serious issues. A leaking tank may lead to aesthetic complaints, costly repairs, or tank failure. More significantly, a tank leak can cause severe environmental contamination and workplace injuries. Ultimately, regular tank inspections are essential to identifying and addressing potentially catastrophic tank issues. You may think you’ll be able to spot a leaking tank on your own, but it’s not always that easy. Many tank leaks go unnoticed, leaking product into the surrounding groundwater for years before the problem is addressed. Of course, failing to undergo tank inspections can also lead to hefty fines from the EPA – fines that may, on occasion, reach millions of dollars.

What Does a Tank Inspection Entail?

First, we’ll identify what kind of tank inspection you need based on the contents of your storage tank. We offer a wide variety of services during our comprehensive tank inspections:

  • Roof inspection, including dome and seals
  • Shell inspection
  • Tank floor
  • Aperture
  • Coating and liner
  • Evaluation of settlement
  • Strapping and calibration
  • Nozzle inspection

Our expert tank inspectors will begin by inspecting your tank’s exterior to identify any cracks or crazing. If cracks are found, our inspector will assess the depth and severity of the crack, conducting further testing from there. Our inspectors will also look for any corrosion that may be eating away at the walls of your tank. Finally, our inspectors will assess the tank containment area to ensure there are no environmental hazards. If tank issues are found, it’s not the end of the world. Our inspectors will assess the damage, then write up recommendations to help you reach compliance. Our remediation team can help address any leaks, often within 24 hours of your inspection.

Schedule a Tank Inspection

Have you fallen behind on your tank inspections? Don’t put your personnel at risk. We’ve recently expanded our tank inspection service line to comply with a variety of governing bodies:

If you are ready to schedule your tank inspection, reach out to us online.

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With Environmental Works, you never have to worry about frustrating delays or the scheduling of multiple inspections. We employ expert tank inspectors who offer the technology and knowledge to conduct tank inspections anytime, anywhere in the continental United States and beyond. We’re also well versed in EPA and OSHA guidelines, so we can help you develop a plan for ongoing compliance.

At EWI, our experts are able to prepare custom tank inspections and remediation recommendations for each individual client. We’re passionate about keeping you and your employees safe and compliant. If you have questions about the importance of tank inspections, Environmental Works is here to help. To learn more, please click here to contact us online and schedule your inspection.

Environmental Works

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