Storage Tank Leaks Survival Guide: Emergency Actions & Repair Solutions

A leak in a storage tank—whether it holds fuel, chemicals, water, or process liquids—can threaten your entire operation. Quick, decisive action is critical to minimize safety hazards, environmental impact, regulatory exposure, and business disruption. This survival guide will help you recognize the risks, respond safely, and secure the expert repairs you need to keep your facility running.

What to Do First: Emergency Response Steps

• Evacuate and Secure the Area:
  Immediately clear non-essential personnel from the affected area and establish a safe perimeter, especially if the tank contains hazardous materials like propane, fuel, or chemicals.

• Shut Off Supply Sources:
  If it’s safe to do so, close off valves or pumps feeding the leaking tank to stop additional product loss. Never attempt this step without proper training and PPE.

• Alert Emergency Response Teams:
  Notify your facility’s emergency team and, if necessary, local emergency services. Always follow your site’s emergency protocols.

• Ventilate Where Appropriate:
  For indoor tanks or confined spaces, increase ventilation to disperse vapors unless it increases the risk of fire or explosion.

• Document the Incident:
  Take photos, note the type and quantity of material, and record the size and location of the leak. This supports compliance and future prevention.

Assessing the Damage: Next Steps

• Identify the Root Cause:
  Is the leak due to corrosion, a failed weld, impact damage, or a lining/coating issue? Understanding the cause helps guide repairs and future prevention.

• Check for Additional Hazards:
  Look for secondary risks—like slip hazards, electrical risks, or the potential for vapor build-up.

• Contact RAK Industrial Services:
  Our team is available 24/7 for rapid assessment and on-line tank leak repairs. We’ll help you contain and resolve the leak while minimizing downtime and risk.

Long-Term Repair Options and Prevention

• On-Line Leak Repair & Composite Wraps:
  RAK uses advanced composite wraps and engineered clamp systems to stop leaks while tanks remain in service. This approach is ideal for facilities that can’t afford shutdowns.

• Tank Relining & Specialty Coatings:
  For internal corrosion or repeated leaks, professional relining with high-performance coatings (epoxy, vinyl ester, NSF 61, plural component) provides a seamless, chemical-resistant barrier.

• Structural Reinforcement:
  Where wall thinning or external damage has occurred, composite reinforcement or welded repairs restore tank integrity and extend asset life.

• Inspection and Maintenance:
  After emergency repairs, schedule a comprehensive inspection to check for underlying damage. Establish a regular maintenance plan to detect early warning signs before leaks occur.

Preventing Future Storage Tank Leaks

• Schedule routine inspections for corrosion, wall thinning, and coating integrity
• Invest in high-quality linings and coatings designed for your tank’s material and service
• Shield tanks from accidental impacts with barriers or bollards
• Train staff in early leak detection and proper emergency response
• Partner with a reliable repair provider who can respond quickly to any issue

Why RAK Industrial Services?

RAK delivers rapid, non-disruptive storage tank repairs using online leak repair, composites, and advanced coatings. Our experienced technicians minimize downtime, ensure safety, and keep your operation compliant with all regulations.

Storage tank leaks are always urgent, but with the right response, expert repairs, and a focus on prevention, you can protect your people, assets, and bottom line. By following this survival guide and partnering with RAK Industrial Services, your facility will be ready for anything.