Bulk Storage Tank Inspections in Line with EEMUA, API, and Written Schemes of Examination
Compliant, Data-Rich Inspection Solutions Delivered via Drone Technology and Asset Integrity Partnerships
At DJM Aerial Solutions, we support industrial clients across the UK with comprehensive asset integrity inspections of bulk storage tanks. Working in collaboration with trusted asset integrity partners, we ensure our drone-based inspection data is not only accurate and high-resolution, but also aligned with the regulatory frameworks that govern tank safety, performance, and compliance.
From internal condition surveys to corrosion detection and defect mapping, our remote inspection capabilities are tailored to support compliance with EEMUA 159, API 653, and site-specific Written Schemes of Examination (WSE) under UK regulations.
Understanding the Regulatory Landscape for Tank Integrity
EEMUA 159 (Edition 5)
Published by the Engineering Equipment and Materials Users’ Association (EEMUA), this is the leading guidance for the inspection, maintenance and repair of vertical cylindrical steel storage tanks. EEMUA 159 outlines best practice for:
Inspection intervals and techniques
Evaluation of corrosion, distortion, and weld defects
Fitness-for-service assessments
Foundation, shell, and roof integrity
Inspection requirements under operational and out-of-service conditions
DJM Aerial Solutions supports tank operators by collecting visual and spatial data using UAVs to aid engineering analysis against EEMUA’s inspection expectations.
API 653
The American Petroleum Institute’s API 653 standard is commonly referenced in the UK for tank inspection and repair, particularly in oil, gas, and chemical storage sectors. It provides criteria for:
Inspection frequency and scope
Evaluation of shell, floor, and roof integrity
Settlement assessment
Corrosion rates and remaining life calculations
Our drone inspection outputs—including annotated visuals and point cloud data—can assist certified inspectors and engineers in performing compliant API 653 evaluations.
Written Scheme of Examination (WSE)
Under the UK’s Pressure Systems Safety Regulations (PSSR) and broader COMAH (Control of Major Accident Hazards) requirements, tank operators are required to have a Written Scheme of Examination. This outlines:
Components to be inspected
Required inspection intervals
Methods to be used
Acceptance and rejection criteria
Risk-based maintenance planning
DJM Aerial Solutions works closely with authorised inspectors and integrity engineers to gather data that feeds directly into the WSE process, reducing the need for manned entry, scaffolding, and system shutdowns.
Our Approach to Tank Inspection
Whether your tank is atmospheric, pressurised, above-ground, or below-ground, our UAV platforms are tailored to meet your inspection and compliance needs.
External Inspections
We deploy the Matrice 300 RTK and Mavic 3E platforms for high-resolution external visual inspections of:
Tank shell weld seams
Surface corrosion and blistering
Coating degradation
Settlement and structural deformation
Roof-mounted appurtenances and vents
Pipework, supports, and ladders
Thermal payloads can be used to detect cold spots indicating moisture ingress or heat-related anomalies.
Internal Drone Surveys
For internal inspection of tanks, we utilise the Elios 3 confined space drone, which provides:
Stabilised 4K video and high-resolution stills
360° LED lighting for dark environments
Onboard LiDAR to produce point cloud data
Defect tagging for welds, corrosion, spalling, and lining issues
All internal inspections are conducted without manned entry, complying with confined space legislation and significantly reducing operational risk.
Working Alongside Asset Integrity Specialists
Our inspection data is interpreted and applied by asset integrity partners with in-depth knowledge of EEMUA and API standards. Together, we deliver:
Data-driven decision support
Independent engineering assessments
Remaining life estimation and RBI planning
Compliant inspection reports and repair recommendations
This collaborative approach ensures all survey data is fit-for-purpose, traceable, and contributes directly to the safety case and regulatory compliance of the site.
Key Benefits of Our Drone-Based Integrity Inspections
Elimination of manned confined space entry
No scaffolding or tank-out-of-service costs
Reduced inspection time and improved data accuracy
Engineering-grade reporting aligned to EEMUA/API standards
Ideal for live or limited-access facilities
Nationwide coverage with fast mobilisation
Frequently Asked Questions About Drone Surveys
Bulk storage tanks are typically inspected in line with EEMUA 159, API 653, and UK Written Schemes of Examination. These frameworks ensure safety, structural integrity, and compliance.
Yes. Drone data supports engineering evaluations carried out under EEMUA and API standards by providing clear, high-resolution visuals and spatial datasets.
In many cases, yes. Internal drones eliminate the need for confined space entry, though engineers may still require physical verification depending on WSE requirements.
No scaffolding, no rope access, no confined space entry. The drone performs the internal and external survey remotely, making the inspection significantly safer.
Corrosion, pitting, weld defects, lining failure, deformation, blistering, sediment build-up, cracking, spalling, and other structural anomalies.
4K visual footage, high-resolution stills, defect-tagging, LiDAR point clouds, dimensional data, and engineering-ready reports for integrity partners.
Absolutely. Drone data provides evidence and visibility to support inspection frequency decisions, risk assessments, and engineering evaluation.
Not always. Depending on tank design and remaining product, internal drones such as the Elios 3 can operate safely without complete emptying, subject to atmospheric safety clearance
The Elios 3 provides LiDAR-based point clouds accurate enough for deformation assessment, dimensional checks, and engineering comparison.
Yes. We collaborate with qualified asset integrity partners who interpret the drone data in line with EEMUA, API, and WSE requirements.
Trusted by Industry
We support operators in the chemical, petrochemical, fuel storage, energy from waste, and manufacturing sectors. Whether the asset is part of a COMAH-regulated site or a standalone process facility, our inspection solutions are tailored to the asset’s duty, location, and risk profile.
Book Your Compliant Tank Survey Today
If you’re preparing for a shutdown, regulatory inspection, or need condition insight as part of your WSE or risk-based strategy, we’re here to help.
DJM Aerial Solutions can work directly with your asset integrity engineers or bring our own partners into the fold to deliver a fully compliant inspection package, powered by cutting-edge drone technology.
Contact us today to schedule your tank survey.