Proper storage tank maintenance is crucial for industrial facilities. Poorly maintained tanks can cause environmental damage, which can put human health at risk. Cryogenic tanks, for example, contain liquids and vapors may cause a similar effect as thermal burns, and brief exposure may damage tissues in the eyes.
Cryogenic tanks store liquid gasses with a boiling point of below -100°F, such as liquid nitrogen, liquid oxygen, and liquified natural gas, among others. Cryogenic liquids can cause different hazards, including fire, pressure buildup, frostbite, and asphyxiation. That’s why only professionals should handle these types of material.
Maintenance services, like brioservicesinc.com, can help keep your cryogenic tank safe and efficient in the long run. Without expert assistance, your facility might suffer from the consequences of poorly maintained tanks and mishandling of materials.
The Impact of Poor Maintenance on a Facility
Since your storage tanks contain harmful chemicals, keeping it well-maintained should be your priority. Neglecting this process can contaminate its contents, which may lead to a loss of resources. Poor maintenance can also create leaks that may have an impact on operations, workers, and the local area.
Your maintenance crew should have appropriate training on the proper cleaning and handling of such storage tanks. Compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) lockout/tagout rules is also necessary. OSHA explains hazardous energy can cause serious injuries and can be fatal if not properly controlled.
Practice Proper Handling of Cryogenic Liquids
If you’re working with cryogenic liquids, you must label each tank properly. This helps your maintenance crew easily identify the contents of every tank for proper handling. Your tanks should also be secured in one place to prevent them from rolling during an earthquake or other natural phenomena.
Since cryogenic liquids can cause hazards, make sure your crew members wear the correct personal protective equipment. They’ll need first-grade gloves designed for handling cryogenic materials, safety glasses and face shield, and a lab apron to protect their skin and eyes.
The work area is another crucial consideration when working with these materials. Experts recommend working in well-ventilated spaces when handling cryogenic materials. Doing so can avoid localized oxygen depletion as well as the toxic or flammable gas buildup.
Avoid splashing when transferring or pouring cryogenic liquids. If you transfer liquid hydrogen in an air atmosphere, on the other hand, its oxygen can condense, creating an explosion hazard. Your team should not only know how to prevent such incidents, but they should also know what to do in case they happen.
Painting Prolongs a Tank’s Lifespan
When it comes to maintaining the storage tanks of cryogenic liquids, painting your units can help extend the life of your tanks. The exterior finish of the tanks can protect the units against corrosion and rust.
Maintenance can also save you money because it can prevent costly repairs and replacements. Additionally, professionals will inspect your tanks carefully to apply the appropriate solution. They will cover your tanks with rust prevention coatings before finally applying the paint.
Apart from painting, you must also monitor your tanks regularly to detect problems before they get worse. You may conduct routine inspections with industry professionals and an in-house team. These ensure the safety of your storage tanks.
Sufficient knowledge about the proper storage of hazardous materials, like cryogenic liquids, is vital for industrial facilities. It helps you keep workers safe and your business protected from liabilities.
