Description of works – High-Pressure Jetting & Decontamination of Large Scale Water Storage Tanks
Service Categories – Industrial Cleaning / Confined Space Entry
The Balmore Group was recently contracted to perform critical maintenance on two large-scale industrial water storage tanks. The project required the removal of deep-seated contamination and sediment buildup to ensure the tanks remained fit for purpose.
Given the nature of the environment—a high-risk confined space—this project demanded a sophisticated blend of high-pressure water jetting (HPWJ) technology and rigorous safety management. As specialists in challenging environments, Balmore Group delivered a “zero-incident” project, returning the assets to a spotless, contamination-free state.
Project Challenges
Cleaning industrial water tanks is a complex task that goes far beyond standard sanitation. Because these tanks are enclosed areas with limited entry and exit points, they are legally classified as Confined Spaces.
Identified Risks
Atmospheric Hazards: Potential for oxygen depletion or the buildup of toxic gases during the cleaning process.
Access Constraints: Difficult entry points requiring specialized vertical access and retrieval systems.
Contamination Control: Ensuring that the jetting process completely removes biofilms and mineral scaling without damaging the tank’s internal lining.
For Balmore Group, the priority was to execute a precision clean while maintaining a redundant safety loop for every operative on-site.
High-Pressure Jetting Systems
To achieve a “spotless” finish, our team deployed high-performance jetting units capable of stripping away years of accumulation without the need for abrasive chemicals.
The Jetting Process
Precision Stripping: Utilising calibrated PSI levels to remove scale, silt, and bacterial growth.
Total Surface Coverage: Every internal weld, seam, and corner was treated to ensure no “dead zones” were left where bacteria could re-colonise.
Efficient Waste Removal: Post-jetting, all wastewater and dislodged solids were safely extracted and disposed of in accordance with environmental regulations, leaving the tanks ready for immediate inspection and refill.
Safety Protocols & Confined Space Certification
At Balmore Group, we believe that Safety is the foundation of Quality. Working in confined spaces is one of the most dangerous tasks in the industrial sector, which is why our approach exceeds standard HSE requirements.
Our Safety Infrastructure
Atmospheric Monitoring: Continuous, real-time gas detection was used to monitor oxygen levels and check for hazardous vapors (CO, H2S) before and during entry.
Rescue Cover: A dedicated “Top-Man” and rescue team were stationed at the entry point at all times, equipped with specialised recovery winches and breathing apparatus (BA) should an emergency extraction be required.
Certified Personnel: Every operative on-site holds current Confined Space Entry certification, ensuring they are trained in dynamic risk assessment and emergency communication.
Why Professional Tank Cleaning Matters
A neglected water tank is a significant liability. By utilising Balmore Group’s specialist cleaning services, the client secured several long-term benefits:
Water Quality Assurance: Removing sediment and biofilms is essential for preventing Legionella and other waterborne pathogens.
Asset Preservation: High-pressure jetting removes corrosive elements that can compromise the structural integrity of the tank walls over time.
Regulatory Compliance: Our detailed post-clean reports provide the necessary audit trail for health, safety, and environmental inspectors.
Operational Efficiency: Clean tanks allow for better flow rates and less strain on filtration systems.
Specialist Cleaning in Challenging Environments
This project is a prime example of Balmore Group’s “Precision in Practice.” We don’t just clean; we engineer solutions for environments where other contractors cannot or will not go. From internal water tanks to industrial silos and culverts, our team provides a seamless, compliant, and highly efficient service.
Core Strengths Demonstrated
Technical Proficiency: Advanced high-pressure jetting capability.
Risk Management: Industry-leading confined space safety procedures.
Accountability: Full documentation and certification for every stage of the project.
Water tank maintenance is a critical component of facility management. Don’t leave the safety of your personnel or the cleanliness of your assets to generalist contractors. Partner with the specialists who define the standard for industrial cleaning in Scotland.
Quotes & Enquiries
At Balmore, we offer the expertise of four decades in difficult access works including roofing, rope access, industrial cleaning and drone inspection services. Our one stop shop approach to inspection, repair and cleaning has grown through our desire to constantly exceed our clients expectations and offer a service that is far superior to our competitors.
Please fill in the form outlining your requirements and our contract team will be able to provide you with a bespoke quotation for your inspection, repair or cleaning needs.
