Clean and clear bulk liquid storage tanks
Overview
This standard covers the competences you need to clean and clear bulk liquid storage tanks
You will be required to demonstrate that you can prepare for the cleaning of storage tanks, cleaning and clearing tanks of any product in accordance with authorised procedures.
During this work you must take account of the relevant operational requirements and safe working practices AS THEY APPLY TO YOU.
The activity is likely to be undertaken by someone in petrochemical work setting, including individuals working in refineries, chemical plants and tank storage.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
P1 correctly empty the tank in accordance with work instructions
P2 report any difficulties in emptying to the appropriate person
P3 ensure removal of vapour in accordance with targets
P4 safely transfer the residues to the appropriate locations and containers
P5 safely apply neutralising agents where appropriate
P6 use safe lifting and moving techniques
P7 ensure that the containers for transfer or holding of residual product are appropriately marked
P8 effectively notify the appropriate person on completion of activity
P9 ensure that you have the appropriate permits, method statements and risk assessments
P10 obtain appropriate confirmation that tank is sufficiently free of product and vapour to proceed
P11 ensure that the tank is appropriately and securely isolated prior to and during internal working
P12 ensure that the work area is clear of unauthorised personnel before cleaning commences
P13 correctly perform cleaning and clearing operations
P14 ensure safe and efficient use of equipment
P15 communicate all relevant information to the appropriate people
P16 work safely in accordance with operational requirements
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
K1 how to select, use and care for PPE
K2 the implications of statutory and
organisational requirements
K3 how to interpret operational requirements
K4 the appropriate product levels to allow emptying to begin
K5 when and how to transfer product
K6 how to interpret information on vapour removal targets
K7 the range of de-gassing techniques available to you and how to apply them
K8 the principles of siting equipment for maximum removal of vapour and equipment operation
K9 how and why to use neutralising agents
K10 how to minimise contact during residue transfer
K11 safe lifting and moving techniques
K12 the information required on the containers
K13 disposal requirements and locations
K14 how to work with and within the permit system
K15 how to ensure that the tools and equipment are fit for purpose
K16 the importance of secure isolation
K17 the safety requirements specific to internal working
K18 the range of available cleaning agents and techniques
K19 how to identify signs of tank damage and distress
K20 the information to communicate and to whom
K21 current health, safety and environmental regulations and working practices relevant to the job role
Scope/range
Carry out all of the following during preparing pipelines and hoses within bulk liquid operations
Equipment:
• Hoses
• Portable pumps
• Portable valves
• Filters
Infrastructure:
• Tanks
• Pipework
• Pumps
• Valves
• Gauges
• Buildings
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
• Sight protection
• Overalls
• Hearing protection
• Gloves
• Hard Hat
• Footwear
• Respirators
• High visibility clothing
Statutory Regulations:
• Health and Safety at Work Act (HASAWA)
• Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
(COSHH)
• Other regulations and working practices relating to the job role and product characteristics
Organisational Requirements:
• Polices
• Procedures
• Instructions
• Codes of practice
• Standards
• Schedules
Inspection:
• Routine
• Observed problems
• Distress
• Damage
• Poor functionality
Signs of distress and damage and poor functioning:
• Physical damage
• Corrosion
• Leakage
• Joint distortion
• Out of date certification
Appropriate authority:
• Location
• Extent
• Possible causes
Storage conditions:
• Excess water
Cleaning:
• Filters
• Isolating
• Disconnecting
• Disassembling
Communication:
• Written
• Verbal
• Electronic