June is National Safety Month. Founded by the National Safety Council, National Safety Month occurs every June and “focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death at work, on the road and in our homes and communities.” There are plenty of accidents at workplaces around the country every year, and every industry has its own risks. If you’re in an industry that involves large aboveground storage tanks, yours is no exception.
In honor of National Safety Month, SMD Fluid Controls presents these essential tank safety tips for aboveground and other storage tanks.
Don’t Overfill
One of the most common safety hazards that occur with aboveground or atmospheric storage tanks is simple overfilling. This might be due to a desire to maximize tank efficiency, simple carelessness, or for other reasons. But overfilled tanks are nothing to take lightly, and can cause leaks, ruptures, and even explosions.
Be careful not to overfill storage tanks. High-level alarms triggered by liquid level sensors can be a good way to help keep storage levels in check.
Select the Right Tank
Not every tank is appropriate for every material, especially when it comes to caustic or difficult materials like petroleum, wastewater, or oils. Chemical compatibility should be a major concern when choosing a storage tank for your application.
According to the tank distributor Tanks Direct, “it’s also important to consider the temperature and pressure ranges in which the tank is capable of operating. Many chemicals need to be stored at a specific temperature and pressure ranges, or could risk leaking or even an explosion.”
Make sure Employees Are Trained
Training is one of the most important precautions you can take. When employees and workers know what they’re doing, how to use their equipment, and the risks associated with their jobs, they’re far more likely to do their work safely and effectively.
Don’t cut corners when it comes to training, ever.
Observe OSHA Regulations
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, working in storage tanks “is a highly hazardous work environment.”
While there are no specific guidelines for safety tanks, many of OSHA’s general industry standards, such as those for confined space, may apply.
Contact your local regional OSHA office for more information on regulations and compliance. The alternative could mean costly fines and—more importantly—hurt workers.
Depending on your industry, there may also be relevant regulations established by the EPA, National Fire Protection Association, American Petroleum Institute, or other organizations.
Inspect Regularly
Like anything else, storage tanks undergo acute damage and routine wear and tear. Corrosion from chemicals, air, and water is a particular risk for many storage tanks.
Make sure your tanks are regularly inspected for damage or wear is essential. An ounce of prevention is always worth a pound of cure!
Common Sense and Expertise
Every industry, application, and workplace is different. Outline the safety protocols that make the most sense for your organization, and stick to them religiously. If you need consultation from an expert, get it. There’s nothing more important than safety.