Open tank inspection without roof access
Reducing risks with the UT_Pole
How a 16 m instrumented pole replaces rope access technicians, divides intervention time by 4 and improves data traceability — feedback from a field operation.
A well-known constraint for inspection companies
The inspection of open storage tanks without roof access remains a complex, costly and exposed operation. When there is no walkway or walkable surface, teams generally have to rely on rope access technicians working at height, moving along the upper structure of the tank — particularly on the top angle.
This operating method raises several issues:
- High human risk: work at height, wind exposure, fatigue
- Long intervention time: safety setup, slow progression, dismantling
- Significant indirect costs: mobilization of specialized teams, extended shutdown
- Limited acceptance by operators, who are increasingly focused on risk reduction
In this context, inspection companies are actively looking for solutions that maintain a high level of technical quality while reducing field exposure.
The concrete case: complete inspection in 3 hours
During a recent operation, a complete inspection of an open tank was carried out using a 16-meter UT_Pole instrumented pole.
Including preparation, access, safety setup, progression at height and dismantling.
Inspection carried out entirely from the ground, without any access equipment.
Integrated measurement and traceability
Beyond the operational gain, the solution brings a clear technical improvement thanks to a dual measurement capability: ultrasonic thickness measurement and automatic data encoding.
Each measurement point is directly recorded, timestamped, located and archived on digital media.
Zero information loss. No manual re-entry. Complete traceability for audits or later review. Easier data exploitation: comparison, history, client reporting.
In a context where regulatory and contractual requirements are becoming stricter, this becomes a real competitive advantage.
Safety and acceptance: a decisive commercial lever
Industrial operators are increasingly clear about their desire to reduce high-risk interventions, limit human presence at height and avoid heavy access systems.
With a solution such as the UT_Pole:
- Human risk is drastically reduced
- HSE constraints are reduced
- Intervention times are shortened
For an inspection company, this makes it possible to offer a differentiating service, aligned with current market expectations.
A tool that attracts and retains field teams
Another point that is often underestimated: the impact on field teams. The use of instrumented, connected and ergonomic tools helps modernize the image of the profession, reduce physical strain and attract younger, more qualified profiles.
In a sector facing recruitment challenges, this argument becomes strategic.
Conditions of use
Maximum wind speed
15 knots (~28 km/h)
Recommended height
Up to 12 meters
This scope already covers a significant portion of the inspected tank fleet, making it an immediately operational tool in many cases.
A clear opportunity for inspection companies
For inspection activity managers working on tanks, reservoirs and structures, integrating a solution such as the UT_Pole opens up three concrete perspectives:
Improve competitiveness
Drastic reduction in intervention time. Lower operational costs.
Strengthen the value proposition
Safer inspection. Better structured and more usable data.
Build lasting differentiation
Direct response to operators’ expectations. Strong technological positioning.
Less risk, less time, more data — a combination that is hard to ignore for major industrial inspection players.
Want to test the UT_Pole on your tank fleet?
Talk to our team to assess its potential on your tanks. Response within 24 hours.