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Industrial tanks are an important storage solution for various facilities across several industries, from water storage for hospitals to fuel storage for construction sites. Water tanks and fuel tanks are the two most popular types of industrial tanks, although other types exist that store non-hazardous and hazardous materials.
No matter what you are storing in your tank, you need to do your best to keep it clean. Various types of microbes can develop in industrial tanks if you do not schedule regular cleanings. Keep reading to learn about these microbes and prevention techniques.
Pseudomonas and Legionella Bacteria
Pseudomonas and legionella bacteria both thrive in water systems, especially in large ones that require storage. Pseudomonas often breed in stagnant water and can cause potentially fatal infections, especially in people with weak immune systems. Previous pseudomonas outbreaks have killed hospitalized babies and ICU patients. Legionella bacteria are commonly found in water and multiply when the water is between 68 and 113 degrees Fahrenheit. Some water tanks can heat to these temperatures, especially if they are outside, and contribute to bacteria multiplication. Legionnaires’ disease often comes from these bacteria and is potentially fatal. Previous Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks have killed residents in senior living communities and patients in medical facilities.
Cladosporium Resinae Fungal Growth
Microbes such as bacteria and fungi can also develop in fuel tanks. Cladosprioum resinae is a particularly common fungus that can grow in fuel tanks in certain conditions. This fungus can eat certain types of fuels, such as kerosene. Once water enters the tank and the tank reaches temperatures between 50 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, the fungus can develop and literally stick around. It will continue to eat the fuel and then generate dirty slime that clogs tank filters and strainers. Most of the time, the only way to remove this fungus is to completely drain and clean the tank.
Preventing Bacteria and Fungal Development in Industrial Tanks
Different types of microbes can develop in industrial tanks, wreaking havoc through disease and slime. If your facility wants to protect the contents of your tanks and prevent these health and safety risks, you must schedule annual tank cleaning services. Even if your storage tank does not contain water or fuel that can lead to the development of the bacteria and fungus we mentioned above, your business can still benefit from regular tank cleanings. Regular tank cleanings will help you pass inspections and protect your employees.
Unfortunately, microbes are common in all types of industrial tanks, especially in water and fuel storage. You should test the materials you have stored and work to prevent microbial development so that your tank is safe and your facility can continue to function at its best.
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