DIY Potable Water Tank and Tower inspection. Updated June, 20, 2020
GST – Ground Storage Tank Inspection
EST – Elevated Storage Tank Inspection
In Texas, potable water tanks are required to be inspected inside and out each year. Of course, that is our business and we are sure we have the best inspection method and offer the most information for the lowest cost. Sometimes circumstances may arise that prevent funds from being available.
In that case, follow these steps to safely inspect your own water storage tank to meet state standards.
There are safety concerns before you get started. The first step is to be sure the person assigned to climb any type of water storage facility is fit. Obviously climbing a water tower is physically challenging, but even smaller ground type storage tanks can require an exhausting amount of physical effort to climb.
Make sure everyone who is working on elevated surfaces (any water tank or tower) has completed a basic OSHA approved course on working at height. Employees who conduct work on elevated surfaces are exposed to fall hazards and are required to receive fall-protection training. If you are going to make entry into the tank you will also need to acquire confined space training. Employees who work in confined spaces face increased risk of serious physical injury. Hazards involving a confined space include entrapment, engulfment, and dangerous atmospheric conditions. As a result, employees who conduct work within confined spaces must be properly trained.
Next, you need the right equipment. Starting with a full body safety harness with Fall Protection Shock Absorbing Lanyards. If you are going to enter the tank for an inspection, a multi-gas monitor to perform atmospheric testing prior to entering a confined space is required under OSHA’s 1910.134. You will also need at least a three man entry team that includes a supervisor, entrant and attendee.

Len Pardee Environmental Compliance Officer and Inspection Supervisor (c) 2017 RPWT.

Inspection Technician on tower, using an underwater inspection camera and lighting system for a no-entry inspection.
Check the vent screen as it is the most common problem we see day after day. The chlorine & other treatment chemicals used in potable water are very hard on steel mesh screens, so do not use stainless steel – it may seem like an upgrade, but it won’t last any time at all.

Vent Structure on EST
Next, check the level of the sediment on the bottom of the tank floor. If you don’t have an underwater camera handy, you should drain the tank at least down to the level you can see the sediment on the floor. Make a note of the sediment depth & what it looks like, and make sure there are no insects, birds or other contaminants in the tank. DO NOT ENTER the tank! If you need to make entry into the tank you should follow all Confined Space Entry protocols including having at least a three- man trained team. This is really important! Chlorine gas can form above the water line in potable water storage tanks that have been treated with chlorine. In addition to that, corrosion on the steel can deplete oxygen levels in the tank making a deadly combination. Our crews go in on their own air to dive the facility or use a remote camera to view the interior. We NEVER ENTER THE TANK alone or unprotected!
If you choose to use an underwater camera to get a look inside, make sure it is purchased for, and only used in, potable water. Cross contamination is a serious issue that you need to be aware of! Visit our other blog at www.ronperrin.us for more information on water storage tank contamination.
If you are inspecting a tank or tower with a ladder, be sure to have the fall protection equipment you need to get the job done safely.

Inspector on tower www.ronperrin.com
The proper safety equipment & training is the key to performing a water tower inspection safely.
Get a copy of the Texas State Rules for water tank inspection directly from the TCEQ here:
TCEQ 290.46 go to : Chapter 30, TAC §290.46(m)(1)(A)
The State Form is also available HERE:
Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Tank Inspection Log
Some other states follow AWWA recommendations. Here are the main components that are required to be inspected annually in Texas, and should be included in any potable water tank inspection.
Foundation: settling, cracks, deterioration
Condition of Exterior Coating: rust, pitting, corrosion, leaks
Water Level Indicator: operable, cable access opening protected
Overflow Pipe: flap valve cover accessible, operable, sealed
Access Ladder: loose bolts or rungs
Roof: low spots for ponding water, holes along seams, rust
Air Vents: proper design, screened, sealed edges and seams
Cathodic Protection Anode Plates: secured and sealed
Roof Hatch: proper design, locked, hinge bolts secured, gasket
Interior inspections should include:
Condition of Interior Coating : Check for rust, corrosion, blistering & scaling.
Water Quality Check for:
Insects in the tank both on the surface of the water and on the interior floor.
Floating debris
Sediment levels on the interior floor – (Sediment can be a habitat for bacteria & other contaminants).
Is your tank a Hydro–Pressure Type Tank?
Check Operational Status: pressure release device, pressure gauge, air-water volume device
In Texas Pressure Type Tanks that are large enough to have an inspection port are required to be inspected annually.
They are also required to be opened up and have the interiors inspected at least once every five years.
All inspection reports performed in Texas should be kept on file and available for TCEQ review for five years.
Do you need a Texas Inspection form? Click here: TCEQ TANK INSPECTION FORM.
Do you know how to inspect a water tower and stay safe? Click this link to find out!
This should help you gat started on your potable water tank inspections.
If you need an inspection contractor call 817-377-4899 or see: www.ronperrin.us
Since 1997 we have performed thousands of inspections for water utilities in 14 states.
We have the proper training, inspection and safety equipment to safely deliver you the most information for the least cost.
My book is a great reference point for state rules and requirements.
For safety training check out the OSHA Regional facility near you.https://www.osha.gov/otiec/
For online safety training check out https://www.oshatrain.org/
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Great post.