What Is In Your Tank And What’s It Worth To You?
By: Jim Roberts, P.E. | Sr. Vice President and Market Director for Water/Wastewater at H2M architects + engineers
Recently, I have noticed a concerning trend in the water industry. After careful deliberation, I believe it is worth the time, trouble, and potential challenges to address this issue.
The water industry comprises some of the most dedicated professionals who often go unrecognized by society at large. Those of us in the water industry recognize the critical mission we contribute to. During my time as Deputy Commissioner of the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (NYCDEP), my friend and mentor, Ed Coleman, emphasized the criticality of water. He would say, “Tell them to try it without water.” We all know the truth behind the statement, “No water, no beer.” However, does society really understand the value of water and our role in providing it? From operators to engineers, scientists to administrators, and budgetary experts, we each play an important part. Leadership consistently faces tough decisions regarding budgets and spending. We have a responsibility to safeguard how consumers’ funds are spent. I have always adhered to that belief and conducted my career accordingly.
You may ask, how does this relate to a troubling trend regarding water tanks?
Well, it is directly related. Tanks, particularly storage tanks, are critical assets within every water system. They ensure pressure stability and provide storage for emergencies like fires. While they might be slightly less critical than treatment plants or pump stations, they are nonetheless integral. That is why we all have asset management plans to guide our capital improvements and operational priorities. Where do storage tanks rank in your plans? What happens if your tank(s) are out of service? Regulators expect that a person that is in charge (powerful concept when you really understand what it means) manage their assets responsibly to ensure the delivery of clean, safe water—a product essential for our customers’ survival and societal wellbeing.
I firmly believe that if we took a survey, there would be near unanimous agreement on the statements above. Frankly, I would question whether anyone who disagreed belongs in this field. So, the question is: are you managing your tanks responsibly? What does that mean, you might ask? Well, we can agree that tanks must be maintained in good repair and operational readiness. That is why we conduct regular inspections that are reportable.
At H2M, we made a commitment years ago to provide our clients with comprehensive solutions, designs, and services related to their tanks. We prioritize selecting the right tank solution for each project, understanding our client’s needs and challenges, and delivering the greatest value over the longest practicable return period. Every engineering report includes a cost-benefit analysis of options. What provides the greatest life-cycle value solution should be near the top of the decision tree.
H2M Coatings Services Department has a long history of water tank rehabilitations in the northeast region of the country. The current administration dates to 2005 through current day.
H2M conducted several tank rehabilitations in the 2005–2006 time frame. We are proud to say that every one of the tanks rehabilitated by H2M in the last 18–20-years are still in good condition today and have not required further rehabilitation.
There were tanks rehabilitated by other consultants during the same time frame. The condition of these tanks has required a second round of rehabilitation for some. Others are in poor condition and have needed rehabilitation for several years now.
H2M’s intimate knowledge of the coatings industry has led to a very well thought out specification.
The H2M specification provides very specific standards to be followed for every aspect of the work.
This specification ensures that all H2M clients will receive a great tank rehabilitation, as the specification leaves no items to chance.
The other unique quality that the H2M Coatings Services Department brings to the tank rehabilitation industry is a very well trained and knowledgeable Coating Inspection team. The H2M coating inspectors have been carefully selected based on their industry exposure and knowledge. The coating inspectors are a key component to the success of all coating rehabilitation projects, even more specifically to tank rehabilitation due to the scrutiny of volatile organic compound compliance for potable water suppliers. The current H2M team of inspectors has more than 170 years of combined experience that they bring to every project.
H2M respects our clients regarding budgets and financial challenges. However, we are troubled when we see clients, whether ours or others, swayed by the allure of cheaper tank coating and less stringent enforcement of detailed specifications designed to maximize the value of their investment dollars. Temperature and humidity control? Contractors, particularly less reputable ones, may contest when held to these requirements (almost always the manufacturer of the paint product). But cutting corners often results in higher costs for owners especially if oversight to ensure adherence to specifications is lacking.
Just as one would seek out an experienced surgeon for surgery, it is important to prioritize quality and expertise in tank maintenance and construction.
