Leading waste management specialist CSG is now able to offer certified storage tank inspections for the first time, following investment in advanced drone technology and the qualification of an in-house specialist.
Sam Richards, who has been with CSG for five years, has successfully qualified as an EEMUA 159 Storage Tank Assessor. The achievement marks a significant milestone for the company, enabling it to deliver a complete inspection service internally.
CSG’s confined space team already has extensive experience in the cleaning, inspection, tankering, waste treatment, and management of storage tanks. For several years, the business worked alongside independent assessor Steve Scott, who reviewed inspection findings and produced formal reports. With Scott preparing for retirement, Richards undertook the EEMUA training programme and passed the examinations with distinction.
Richards explained that the company has an eight-strong confined space team and has steadily expanded its storage tank inspection services. Until now, CSG subcontracted the formal inspection and reporting process, but bringing this expertise in-house allows the company to provide a fully integrated service.
He also acknowledged the mentoring he received over the years, noting that working alongside Scott and examining numerous tanks provided an invaluable foundation. The qualification represents an important step forward for CSG, with plans already in place to further develop and grow the inspection team.
CSG’s inspections focus on the overall condition of storage tanks, ensuring that stored products have not caused damage and identifying any corrosion or structural concerns. The team conducts tests to confirm compliance with UK and international safety and environmental standards, while also providing guidance on risk-based maintenance and projected asset lifespan.
To enhance safety and efficiency, CSG invested £100,000 last year in a high-tech inspection drone. The technology has transformed the inspection process, significantly reducing time, cost, and risk.
Previously, scaffolding could take up to a week to erect around a tank to allow access. With the drone, inspections can begin almost immediately. CSG has worked on tanks up to 90 metres in diameter holding tens of thousands of tonnes of crude oil, where traditional inspection methods could incur substantial setup costs. The drone eliminates much of this expense, making inspections more cost-effective for clients.
In addition to improved efficiency, the drone enhances safety by removing the need for personnel to enter confined or hazardous environments. Equipped with LIDAR sensors and high-definition cameras, the drone creates highly accurate three-dimensional images that measure metal thickness and assess both internal and external tank conditions.
Alongside private inspections for clients, Richards and the team are also conducting assessments across CSG’s own nationwide sites to ensure ongoing compliance and safety.
Storage tanks generally require inspection every three to five years, making regular monitoring essential to maintaining operational integrity and meeting regulatory requirements.
For more information visit www.csg.co.uk
