Q. Maintenance requirement at storage tanks?
Little maintenance is required at storage tanks; sometimes access is required for equipment used to remove accumulated solids (this should be noted on P&ID). Wherever possible the berm wall height should allow operators to look into the berm without climbing stairs. Access stairs should be provided at two positions preferably at opposite ends of the storage compound. Stairs should be located to allow operators safe escape routes from the compound in an emergency. Vehicle access into the berm is sometimes required.
Typically access to tank roofs should be by spiral staircase, positioned so that the bottom landing leads personnel towards a safe escape route (upwind of tank). If access to the tank roof is by a straight ladder, that ladder should be located upwind of the tank.