What should be checked during the exterior inspection of an oil tank?

During the exterior inspection of an oil tank, checking for rust, dents, leaks, and ensuring that proper labeling and secondary containment are in place is essential for several reasons. First, identifying rust and dents is crucial as they can indicate corrosion or structural weaknesses that may lead to leaks or failures in the tank. Regular inspection helps in assessing the integrity of the tank and preventing potential environmental hazards.

Furthermore, leaks can pose significant risks not only to the surrounding environment but also to public safety. Timely detection of any leaks allows for prompt repairs and decreases the risk of contamination to soil and water sources.

Proper labeling is another important factor, as it ensures that anyone working near or with the tank understands its contents and associated hazards. Additionally, the presence of secondary containment is vital; it serves as a safeguard to contain any potential spills or leaks, minimizing environmental impact.

Jumping to aspects like nearby vegetation, weather conditions, or the age of the tank could provide some ancillary information, but they do not get to the heart of the critical safety and regulatory compliance issues that a thorough inspection should focus on. Therefore, addressing the tank's structural integrity, potential leaks, and proper communication through labeling and containment measures directly aligns with the key objectives of an effective external inspection.