Tank certification inspections look mysterious from the outside. You’ve got a deadline. The fire department says you need a PE-stamped report under Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations. You don’t know what to expect when we show up. Here’s what actually happens, step by step, in plain language. Knowing the process ahead of time so you know exactly what to expect and lets you plan your facility operations for the day we visit.
Before We Arrive
We coordinate scheduling with you directly: finding a time that works without interrupting your operations. We ask straightforward questions: How many tanks are we certifying? What are they made of? What do they store? Is there a secondary containment system? Have you had any citations or correspondence from the fire department? These details help us prepare and ensure we bring the right equipment.
Based on your tank configuration, we’ll tell you what preparation is needed before we arrive. This varies from facility to facility. Some tanks need to be filled to capacity for leak testing. Some need materials cleared from the containment area so we can access all sides. Some piping systems need to be isolated. We walk you through exactly what’s required for your specific setup so there are no surprises on the day of the visit.
If you have structural drawings from when your tanks were installed or modified, have them available. They help us verify below-ground anchoring details like bolt size and embedment depth.
We bring all equipment we’ll need: measurement tools, testing apparatus, documentation forms, camera equipment. You don’t need to provide any testing equipment. We show up ready to work. Occasionally we need a ladder or access assistance, and we coordinate that with your maintenance or waste handling team.
Before our visit, clean up the hazardous waste storage area. The photographs we take on site become part of your certification package, and inspectors review them. A clean, organized space reflects well on your operation and keeps the focus on certification, not housekeeping.
The Site Visit
Once we arrive, we sit down with you to walk through the plan for the day and exchange contact information with your onsite team. We then ask your waste handler or maintenance staff to walk us through the waste generation, handling, and treatment process so we can confirm the full scope of your operations. This ensures nothing gets overlooked.
Visual Inspection
We visually inspect every tank. We look for corrosion, pitting, cracks, staining at fittings and weld seams, and gasket condition. We document tank material, fiberglass, polyethylene, epoxy-coated steel, or bare steel. We measure wall thickness using ultrasonic equipment. We record tank age, capacity, and installation details. This tells us whether the tank is structurally sound or whether issues exist that need repair or remediation.
If a tank shows signs of degradation, we’ll note that and explain what we’re seeing. We don’t make decisions on the spot about whether something passes or fails. That comes after we complete all testing and calculations and have the full picture.
Leak Testing
Title 22 (22 CCR 66265.192) requires appropriate integrity evaluation for each tank system, which may include leak testing, internal inspection, or another PE-certified method depending on the tank configuration. For many tanks, we perform a static leak test: the tank is filled to capacity, all ports are closed, and we measure the liquid level at the start and again after a defined test period. If the level drops, the tank is leaking. If it stays stable, it passes. For double-walled tanks, we also check the interstitial space (the gap between the inner and outer wall) to make sure that containment layer is intact and free of liquid.
Even with above-ground tanks, it’s common that we can’t see all surfaces, access around or beneath the tank may be limited by walls, equipment, or the tank’s position on a pad. When a full visual inspection isn’t feasible, we use hydrostatic testing or other methods to confirm the tank holds its contents without leaking. We determine the best testing approach for your specific situation based on tank configuration and access.
Seismic Documentation
California regulations require that tanks be secured against seismic forces. We measure how your tanks are anchored, bolt sizes, base plate dimensions, cable configurations, and attachment points. We document exactly how each tank is fastened to its foundation. These measurements feed into seismic calculations that confirm your tanks will remain stable and contained during an earthquake. It’s not just theoretical. It’s engineered and documented with calculations that go into your final report.
If your tanks are currently not anchored or anchored inadequately, we’ll identify that. Most facilities can retrofit anchoring systems, and the cost is typically reasonable compared to the regulatory requirement.
Secondary Containment Assessment
We inspect the condition of your containment: whether it’s a berm, vault, double-walled tank, or lined sump. We verify capacity is adequate for your tanks and any precipitation requirements. We check material compatibility with your stored waste. We confirm it’s being maintained dry without accumulated spills or water. These are regulatory requirements. We document them as part of the certification package.
If we find containment deficiencies (undersized capacity, degraded lining, material incompatibility, or accumulated water) we note them. These become recommendations in the final report, and you can choose to address them before the fire department reviews the report.
Piping Evaluation
If your tank system includes piping that exceeds roughly 10 feet, passes through walls, or goes underground, that piping may need certification too. We evaluate piping condition and perform air pressure testing or hydrostatic testing to ensure it is sound and won’t leak. This is often overlooked. A facility will have certified tanks but unexamined piping that could be a liability.
Documentation and Photography
Throughout the visit, we photograph tanks, containment, anchoring systems, and any areas of concern. We take field notes. We record measurements. All of this becomes part of your certification package. Photography and detailed documentation protect you and CDMS. It’s the record of what we found and what condition things were in on the day we inspected them. If a question comes up later, that photo and those notes are your evidence.
Calculations and Report
Once we return from the site, we compile all findings and perform seismic calculations. We prepare the PE-stamped report, the document that goes to your fire department or regulatory agency. From first site visit to final report, most facilities see delivery within a few weeks. If deficiencies are found, we document them and recommend remediation.
You get a clear, specific report telling you what was certified and what, if anything, needs attention. The report is your tool. You can share it with your fire department, your corporate office, your insurance carrier, or anyone else who needs proof that your tanks are certified.
It’s a Process, Not a Mystery
Tank certification looks complicated until you walk through it step by step. We handle everything. You don’t need to prepare for anything special beyond telling us about your tanks and making sure they’re accessible and clean on the day we visit. Most facilities certify without issue. If something needs attention, we tell you exactly what and why. Then you’re done, the report is in your hands, and you’re compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the site visit take?
It depends on how many tanks you have and the complexity of your systems. A facility with two or three straightforward tanks might take half a day. Larger facilities with treatment systems, extensive piping, or multiple storage areas can take a full day or more.
Do I need to shut down operations during the inspection?
In most cases, no. We work around your operations and schedule the visit to minimize disruption. There may be brief periods where we need access to specific tanks or piping, but a full shutdown is rarely necessary.
What should I have ready before we arrive?
The most helpful items are: any existing tank specifications or manufacturer data sheets, previous inspection or certification reports, a site map or layout showing tank locations, and clear access paths to all tank systems. If you do not have all of these, that is fine. We can work with whatever documentation is available.
What happens if you find a problem during the inspection?
We document it, explain what needs to be addressed, and include it in the report with recommendations. Most issues we find can be resolved. The goal is to identify what needs attention so you can address it and achieve certification, not to create a list of problems with no path forward.
