A Smarter Approach to Tank Inspections: What Engineers Should Know
By Sam Horstmann, Vice President, Mass Tank Inspection Services
Storage tanks are a critical part of infrastructure across countless industries—water treatment, fuel distribution, agriculture, chemical processing, and beyond. Whether fabricated from steel, polyethylene, or fiberglass, these tanks are designed to perform under pressure, weather, and time.
But like any engineered asset, tanks require regular evaluation to ensure they’re operating safely and efficiently. The challenge for many engineering teams? Knowing when, how, and to what extent inspections should take place.
The answer isn’t always straightforward—and that’s exactly the point.
There’s No One-Size-Fits-All Inspection Schedule
When it comes to tank inspections, there’s a natural urge to look for a definitive timeline. Annual, bi-annual, every five years? While those can be useful guidelines, a smarter approach starts by understanding that inspection frequency depends on a combination of variables:
- Tank type and material (steel, poly, fiberglass)
- Stored contents (potable water, fuel, chemicals, wastewater)
- Usage environment (indoor, outdoor, coastal, high-temperature)
- Regulatory requirements (STI SP001, API 653, AWWA, etc.)
- Past inspection findings and maintenance records
The best inspection strategy is one tailored to the tank’s specific application and risk profile. A diesel fuel tank exposed to the elements will naturally need a different inspection cadence than a polyethylene tank storing non-corrosive liquid in a climate-controlled facility.
Understanding Inspection Standards
Several industry standards exist to help engineers and operators understand inspection expectations. For example:
- STI SP001 is commonly applied to shop-fabricated aboveground storage tanks.
- API 653 provides guidelines for larger field-erected tanks, especially those storing hazardous liquids.
- AWWA standards apply to water storage tanks in municipal and industrial systems.
Each standard outlines inspection intervals and procedures—but they’re not cookie-cutter. Engineers should use these as frameworks, not formulas.
Why Proactive Inspections Pay Off
Tank inspections aren’t just about checking a regulatory box. When approached thoughtfully, inspections can:
- Extend service life by identifying corrosion, pitting, or coating failure early
- Avoid costly downtime by planning repairs or recoating during scheduled shutdowns
- Ensure compliance before regulators come knocking
- Protect personnel and the environment from leaks or structural failures
An inspection program should be part of a broader asset management strategy—not just a reaction to issues or mandates.
What a Thoughtful Inspection Program Looks Like
The most effective inspection plans are built around three principles:
- Risk-Based Approach: Evaluate each tank’s operational role, condition, and risk factors. Prioritize accordingly.
- Recordkeeping: Maintain detailed inspection records and maintenance history. Patterns in corrosion or wear can inform future needs.
- Expert Partnership: Work with qualified inspectors who understand both the technical and regulatory nuances. Certifications in STI, API, or AWWA guidelines matter—but so does field experience.
A good inspection provider will offer more than a checklist—they’ll offer insight, recommendations, and long-term planning support.
Final Thoughts
Tank inspections are a responsibility—but they’re also an opportunity. By taking a tailored, strategic approach, engineers can protect infrastructure, manage risk, and extend asset life—all while staying compliant.
If your team is evaluating tank inspection strategies or needs support navigating industry standards, we’re happy to be a resource. At Mass Tank, we’ve spent decades fabricating, repairing, and inspecting tanks of all kinds—and we bring that expertise into every inspection we perform.
Next Steps
If you need help with a tank inspection, contact Sam Horstmann at Mass Tank today by email: sam@masstank.com or phone: 508-923-3445. To learn more about Mass Tank, visit their website at www.masstank.com.