How Often Should Above Ground Storage Tanks Be Inspected?

If you operate above ground storage tanks, understanding your inspection obligations is critical — not just for regulatory compliance, but for protecting your assets, your site and your personnel.

What does EEMUA 159 say?

EEMUA 159 is the industry standard for the inspection and maintenance of above ground vertical cylindrical steel storage tanks. It sets out recommended inspection intervals based on the condition and risk profile of each tank, typically ranging from 5 to 20 years for full internal inspection. However, these intervals are not fixed — they are determined by a risk-based approach that takes into account the tank's age, contents, corrosion rates and previous inspection history.

What does a tank inspection involve?

A thorough EEMUA 159 inspection includes visual examination of the shell, roof and floor, ultrasonic thickness measurement to identify corrosion and metal loss, assessment of welds and structural integrity, and a full written report with recommendations for maintenance or repair.

Weld repairs inside a storage tank

Who can carry out tank inspections?

Tank inspections must be carried out by competent, qualified inspectors with experience in EEMUA 159 assessments. At Testa, our inspectors are PCN certified and operate within our ISO 9001 accredited quality management system, with extensive experience in above ground storage tank inspection across Hull, Grimsby, Immingham, Scunthorpe and the wider UK.

UT on a tank shell using rope access

Don't leave it too late

Leaving tank inspections beyond their recommended interval increases the risk of undetected corrosion, structural failure and environmental incidents — all of which carry significant financial and legal consequences.

If you're unsure when your tanks were last inspected or need an EEMUA 159 assessment, contact Testa today. We operate across Hull, Grimsby and nationwide.