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Institute For Oil & Gas Training
OGI-1236 New

API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Training Course

Duration
5 days
CPD hours
15
Language
English
Next date
19 Oct 2026
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Overview

The API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Training Course from Institute For Oil & Gas Training develops the technical knowledge required to inspect, evaluate, and maintain the integrity of aboveground storage tanks in the oil and gas industry. Based on the principles and requirements of the API 653 standard, this professional training programme focuses on aboveground storage tank inspection, deterioration assessment, repair considerations, and the technical decisions that support safe and reliable tank operations.

Aboveground storage tanks are critical assets in oil refineries, petroleum terminals, petrochemical facilities, production sites, and bulk storage installations. They provide containment for crude oil, refined petroleum products, intermediate process fluids, and other industrial liquids. Their condition directly affects operational reliability, environmental protection, product security, and the continuity of facility operations. Effective inspection is therefore an essential part of asset integrity management throughout a tank's service life.

Storage tanks experience deterioration through corrosion, metal loss, foundation movement, settlement, weld degradation, roof damage, and changing operating conditions. These mechanisms affect different tank components and require appropriate inspection methods and engineering evaluation. Without a structured inspection process, organisations risk overlooking significant defects, misinterpreting inspection measurements, and making maintenance decisions that fail to address the actual condition of an asset.

The API 653 standard provides the framework for inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of applicable in-service steel storage tanks. Professionals responsible for these assets need to understand the requirements of this standard and how they relate to inspection findings, tank condition, and continued service. They must also recognise when a defect requires additional examination, specialist engineering assessment, corrective action, or a review of operating conditions.

Institute For Oil & Gas Training delivers this course to strengthen participants' understanding of tank inspection principles and their practical application in industrial environments. The programme examines tank construction, inspection planning, deterioration mechanisms, non-destructive testing methods, thickness assessment, repair considerations, and inspection documentation. Participants develop a structured approach to interpreting technical evidence and understanding its significance for tank integrity.

A major focus of the course is the relationship between inspection findings and engineering decisions. Visual observations, thickness measurements, weld examinations, and settlement assessments provide different types of information. Their significance depends on the location, extent, characteristics, and potential consequences of the identified condition. Participants learn how these findings contribute to storage tank assessment and why inspection conclusions must be supported by appropriate evidence and applicable acceptance criteria.

The course also addresses the importance of maintaining accurate inspection records. Historical reports, material information, construction drawings, previous measurements, and repair documentation help inspection professionals understand changes in tank condition. Reviewing these records alongside current inspection findings supports more consistent assessments and better-informed maintenance planning.

Another important aspect is the relationship between tank inspection and organisational risk management. A technically sound inspection programme helps asset owners identify deterioration, establish maintenance priorities, plan corrective work, and coordinate activities between inspection, engineering, maintenance, and operations teams. Participants explore how inspection results support decisions concerning repair requirements, further investigations, and the continued suitability of a tank for service.

The API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Training Course also introduces the relationship between API 653 and other recognised industry standards relevant to tank construction, fitness-for-service assessment, risk-based inspection, welding, and non-destructive examination. This broader understanding helps participants recognise the boundaries of individual standards and identify when additional technical guidance is required.

Through practical scenarios and standards-based discussions, Institute For Oil & Gas Training prepares participants to approach tank inspection responsibilities with greater technical awareness. The programme supports professionals who inspect storage tanks directly, review inspection reports, manage maintenance activities, or make asset integrity decisions.

The course provides professional development for individuals seeking to strengthen their knowledge of aboveground storage tank inspection and understand the technical requirements associated with API 653. It also provides a foundation for professionals preparing for the separate API 653 certification process. Completion of the training does not itself confer API certification, which remains subject to the applicable eligibility and examination requirements.

Objectives

  • Explain the purpose, scope, and principal requirements of the API 653 standard.

  • Identify the main components of aboveground storage tanks and understand their functions.

  • Describe the responsibilities associated with tank inspection and integrity management.

  • Recognise common deterioration mechanisms affecting tank shells, floors, roofs, welds, and foundations.

  • Explain the relationship between inspection findings and continued service assessments.

  • Interpret inspection information and identify conditions requiring further technical evaluation.

  • Understand the principles of minimum acceptable thickness and remaining strength assessment.

  • Identify appropriate non-destructive testing techniques for different inspection requirements.

  • Explain how corrosion, settlement, distortion, and material degradation affect tank integrity.

  • Understand the requirements associated with tank repair, alteration, and reconstruction.

  • Review inspection records and recognise the importance of accurate, traceable documentation.

  • Explain how inspection findings contribute to maintenance planning and asset integrity decisions.

  • Communicate inspection observations and recommendations to engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.

  • Distinguish between completion of professional training and the separate requirements for API 653 certification.

Training methodology

Institute For Oil & Gas Training applies an industry-focused training methodology that connects recognised standards with the practical responsibilities of inspection and asset integrity professionals. The course combines technical presentations, case studies, defect assessment exercises, group discussions, and realistic operating scenarios to develop a clear understanding of aboveground storage tank inspection.

Technical presentations introduce the purpose, scope, and application of API 653 alongside related standards. Participants examine the requirements associated with inspection planning, tank condition assessment, deterioration evaluation, repair decisions, and inspection documentation. The emphasis is on understanding how recognised requirements inform practical decisions in oil and gas facilities.

Case studies present representative tank integrity concerns, including shell corrosion, floor deterioration, roof defects, settlement, and weld-related damage. Participants examine the characteristics of each condition and discuss the information required to determine its significance. These activities develop a systematic approach to defect recognition and reinforce the importance of supporting inspection conclusions with appropriate evidence.

Practical assessment exercises focus on interpreting thickness measurements, recognising corrosion patterns, reviewing inspection records, and understanding the limitations of available information. Participants explore how inspection results contribute to minimum thickness evaluations and why more detailed engineering assessment is necessary for certain damage conditions.

Non-destructive testing discussions introduce the applications and limitations of visual examination, ultrasonic thickness measurement, magnetic particle testing, liquid penetrant testing, and radiographic testing. Participants consider how the selection of an examination technique depends on the material, component geometry, suspected defect, and inspection objective.

Group exercises explore decisions involving further examination, repair planning, monitoring, and engineering review. Participants discuss how the nature and severity of an identified defect influence the next steps and how inspection findings should be communicated to relevant technical and operational stakeholders.

The programme also examines inspection documentation and reporting practices. Participants consider the importance of recording defect locations, measurements, examination methods, photographs, supporting evidence, and recommendations. This approach reinforces traceability and helps participants understand how reliable records support future assessments.

Throughout the course, the methodology encourages technical discussion and the application of standards-based principles to realistic situations. Participants strengthen their understanding of the inspection process and the role of evidence-based decisions in maintaining storage tank integrity.

Organisational impact

Stronger Asset Integrity Management

A structured understanding of API 653 helps organisations improve the consistency of their aboveground storage tank inspection activities. Personnel gain a clearer understanding of deterioration mechanisms, inspection requirements, and the technical considerations involved in evaluating tank condition.

This knowledge supports more informed asset integrity reviews and helps organisations identify conditions requiring additional examination or corrective action. Consistent inspection practices also improve the quality of information available to asset owners when reviewing tank condition across multiple facilities.

Improved Maintenance Planning

Inspection findings influence maintenance budgets, contractor requirements, repair schedules, and operational planning. The course strengthens participants' understanding of how inspection evidence supports maintenance decisions and how technical recommendations should reflect the condition of the asset.

Organisations benefit from improved coordination between inspection and maintenance functions. Clearer reporting and better-supported recommendations help maintenance teams identify the work required, establish priorities, and plan interventions around operational requirements.

Better Control of Operational Risk

Deterioration affecting tank shells, floors, roofs, welds, or foundations can compromise containment and operational reliability. Training helps personnel recognise common integrity concerns and understand the importance of evaluating their significance against applicable requirements.

This knowledge supports the early identification and escalation of potentially serious defects. It also strengthens the technical basis for decisions involving further inspection, engineering assessment, repair, and continued operation.

More Consistent Application of Standards

Understanding API 653 and its relationship with other recognised standards helps organisations establish more consistent inspection practices. Participants develop a clearer understanding of the distinction between tank-specific inspection requirements, construction standards, non-destructive testing methods, and fitness-for-service assessment.

This supports more effective communication between internal teams, external inspection contractors, and engineering specialists. It also helps organisations identify when a technical issue falls outside the scope of an individual inspection method or standard.

Improved Inspection Documentation

Reliable records are essential for tracking deterioration and evaluating changes in tank condition. The course reinforces the importance of recording inspection measurements, defect locations, examination methods, findings, and recommendations accurately.

Better documentation supports comparisons between successive inspections and provides a stronger foundation for maintenance planning. It also improves traceability when organisations review previous defects, completed repairs, and the condition of tank components.

More Effective Contractor Coordination

Tank inspection and repair activities often involve specialist inspection contractors, non-destructive testing personnel, welding teams, and engineering consultants. Organisations benefit when internal personnel understand the technical requirements relevant to these activities.

The training helps participants review inspection findings more effectively, ask informed technical questions, and identify gaps requiring clarification. This supports better coordination between contractors and the organisation's engineering, maintenance, and operations teams.

More Informed Asset Management Decisions

Storage tank condition influences operational availability, maintenance expenditure, and long-term asset planning. The course strengthens participants' understanding of how inspection evidence contributes to decisions concerning maintenance priorities, repair requirements, and further engineering investigation.

This improves the quality of technical information presented to decision-makers and supports more systematic management of storage tank assets.

Personal impact

Improved Inspection Knowledge

Participants develop a stronger understanding of aboveground storage tank inspection principles and the requirements associated with API 653. They gain insight into tank construction, inspection planning, deterioration mechanisms, and the assessment of inspection findings.

This knowledge supports professionals who conduct inspections and those who review technical reports or contribute to maintenance decisions.

Better Understanding of Tank Deterioration

The programme improves participants' ability to recognise common forms of tank deterioration and understand their potential implications. They examine corrosion, metal loss, settlement, distortion, weld-related defects, and other conditions affecting tank integrity.

Participants also learn to distinguish between observations that require routine documentation and findings that need further examination or engineering evaluation.

Greater Familiarity with API 653

Participants develop a clearer understanding of the structure and purpose of the API 653 standard. They learn how it relates to in-service inspection, repair, alteration, reconstruction, and continued service considerations.

This familiarity supports more effective technical discussions with inspectors, engineers, maintenance teams, and asset integrity specialists.

Stronger Technical Reporting Skills

Accurate reporting is essential for communicating tank condition and supporting appropriate action. The course reinforces the importance of clear defect descriptions, reliable measurements, traceable records, and evidence-based recommendations.

Participants develop a more systematic approach to explaining inspection findings and identifying information gaps that require clarification.

Improved Professional Collaboration

Storage tank integrity management requires cooperation between inspection, mechanical engineering, corrosion management, non-destructive testing, welding, maintenance, and operations. Participants gain a broader understanding of the technical considerations shared across these functions.

This supports more effective participation in inspection reviews, repair planning discussions, contractor coordination, and asset integrity meetings.

Professional Development

The course provides structured professional development for individuals seeking to expand their knowledge of tank inspection and integrity management. It strengthens their understanding of recognised industry standards and the technical considerations involved in assessing aboveground storage tanks.

For professionals preparing for API 653 certification, the programme provides a foundation for further study. Formal certification remains dependent on meeting the applicable API eligibility requirements and passing the required examination.

Who should attend

  • Aboveground Storage Tank Inspectors: Strengthen their understanding of API 653 requirements and inspection practices for in-service tanks.

  • Inspection Engineers: Improve their ability to interpret inspection findings and support tank condition assessments.

  • Mechanical Engineers: Develop greater familiarity with tank components, deterioration mechanisms, and repair considerations.

  • Corrosion Engineers and Specialists: Understand how corrosion and metal loss affect storage tank integrity and inspection priorities.

  • Non-Destructive Testing Personnel: Strengthen their understanding of how examination techniques contribute to tank inspection and condition assessment.

  • Asset Integrity Engineers and Managers: Improve their understanding of inspection evidence, integrity evaluation, and maintenance priorities.

  • Maintenance Engineers and Supervisors: Develop a stronger technical basis for planning storage tank repairs and coordinating inspection activities.

  • Reliability Engineers: Understand how tank inspection findings support failure prevention and asset reliability planning.

  • Welding Engineers and Inspectors: Improve their awareness of weld-related integrity concerns and inspection requirements associated with tank repairs.

  • Quality Assurance and Quality Control Professionals: Strengthen their knowledge of inspection documentation, repair verification, and technical traceability.

  • Tank Farm and Terminal Operations Personnel: Understand the operational implications of tank deterioration and inspection findings.

  • Oil and Gas Facility Managers: Develop a clearer understanding of storage tank integrity, maintenance requirements, and inspection-related operational risks.

  • Inspection Contractors and Technical Consultants: Expand their knowledge of recognised tank inspection requirements and assessment principles.

  • Professionals Preparing for API 653 Certification: Establish a structured understanding of relevant inspection principles before pursuing the separate certification process.

Course outline

This module introduces the principles governing aboveground storage tank inspection and the relationship between tank construction, operating conditions, and in-service integrity. Participants examine the main structural components of steel storage tanks and develop an understanding of how construction information supports subsequent inspection and assessment. The module establishes the foundation for interpreting API 653 requirements in an operational environment.

  1. API 650

    • API 650 establishes requirements for the design and construction of welded steel tanks within its defined scope.

    • It addresses materials, fabrication, welding, inspection, and testing associated with tank construction.

    • Knowledge of construction requirements helps inspectors understand tank configurations, component arrangements, and original design information.

    • API 650 and API 653 address different stages of the tank lifecycle and must be applied according to their respective scopes.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the purpose and general scope of API 653.

    • Identify the principal components of aboveground storage tanks.

    • Describe the relationship between original tank construction and subsequent inspection requirements.

    • Distinguish between the respective purposes of API 650 and API 653.

    • Identify construction drawings, historical records, and technical information relevant to tank inspection.

    • Explain the importance of understanding tank design and operating history when assessing integrity.

This module focuses on the principles of planning and conducting aboveground storage tank inspections. Participants examine inspection scope, examination methods, measurement reliability, and the interpretation of findings. The module develops an understanding of how different non-destructive testing techniques contribute to condition assessment and how inspection evidence supports decisions concerning tank integrity.

  1. API 653

    • API 653 establishes requirements for inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction of applicable in-service steel storage tanks.

    • It provides the basis for addressing inspection requirements and evaluating tank condition within its defined scope.

    • Inspection activities must reflect the applicable standard requirements and the characteristics of the asset being examined.

    • Inspection findings must be evaluated against relevant acceptance criteria and appropriate engineering considerations.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the main stages of aboveground storage tank inspection.

    • Describe the purpose of external and internal tank examinations.

    • Identify the applications of visual examination and ultrasonic thickness measurement.

    • Explain the uses and limitations of magnetic particle, liquid penetrant, and radiographic testing.

    • Recognise the importance of inspection coverage, measurement accuracy, and appropriate examination methods.

    • Identify inspection findings that require additional examination or technical evaluation.

This module examines the deterioration mechanisms that affect aboveground storage tanks and the engineering considerations involved in assessing their significance. Participants explore corrosion, metal loss, cracking, settlement, distortion, and related integrity concerns. The module introduces the principles of fitness-for-service assessment and explains how technical evidence contributes to decisions about damaged equipment.

  1. API 579-1/ASME FFS-1

    • API 579-1/ASME FFS-1 provides methodologies for evaluating the fitness for service of equipment containing damage or deterioration.

    • It addresses assessment approaches for defined damage mechanisms, including general metal loss and localised metal loss.

    • Its methodologies support engineering decisions concerning equipment suitability for continued operation within the applicable assessment scope.

    • Its use must be coordinated with applicable tank-specific requirements, including API 653 where relevant.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Recognise common corrosion and deterioration mechanisms affecting tank components.

    • Explain the effects of metal loss, cracking, settlement, and distortion on tank integrity.

    • Describe the purpose of minimum acceptable thickness evaluations.

    • Explain the relationship between inspection measurements and remaining strength assessment.

    • Identify conditions requiring further engineering analysis or fitness-for-service evaluation.

    • Distinguish between inspection observations and conclusions requiring specialist technical assessment.

This module addresses the technical considerations associated with repairing and altering aboveground storage tanks. Participants examine how inspection findings inform repair decisions, how welding and examination requirements contribute to repair quality, and why completed work must be verified against applicable requirements. The module also reinforces the importance of accurate repair records and coordination between inspection, engineering, maintenance, and operations personnel.

  1. API 653

    • API 653 addresses repair, alteration, and reconstruction of applicable in-service steel storage tanks.

    • It establishes requirements relevant to evaluating proposed work and maintaining tank integrity during repair activities.

    • Repair and alteration decisions must reflect the applicable provisions, identified damage, and required engineering assessments.

    • Inspection and documentation activities support verification of completed work against applicable requirements.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the principal considerations governing tank repair and alteration.

    • Identify the importance of engineering evaluation before corrective work begins.

    • Describe the role of welding inspection and non-destructive examination in repair verification.

    • Recognise the importance of material suitability and repair traceability.

    • Explain how inspection records support quality assurance and confirmation of completed work.

    • Identify the need to verify compliance with applicable requirements before returning a tank to service.

This module focuses on using inspection information to support asset integrity management and maintenance planning. Participants examine the preparation of inspection reports, the review of historical records, the interpretation of deterioration trends, and the prioritisation of inspection activities. The module brings together the technical principles covered throughout the course and explains how clear reporting and risk-informed planning support more consistent tank integrity decisions.

  1. API 580

    • API 580 establishes principles and minimum elements for risk-based inspection programmes.

    • It addresses risk assessment, inspection planning, and the management of equipment integrity.

    • Risk-based inspection supports prioritisation according to assessed risk and the potential consequences of failure.

    • Its application to storage tanks must be coordinated with the applicable tank-specific requirements and the organisation's integrity management procedures.

    Learning Outcomes

    • Explain the importance of structured inspection reporting and traceable records.

    • Identify the information required to document tank defects and inspection findings.

    • Describe how historical inspection results support the evaluation of deterioration trends.

    • Explain the principles of risk-based inspection and their role in inspection planning.

    • Identify how inspection findings support maintenance priorities and engineering recommendations.

    • Communicate inspection conclusions clearly to asset integrity, maintenance, and operations teams.

    • Explain how inspection information contributes to long-term tank integrity management.

Certificate

Participants who complete the API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Training Course receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training upon fulfilling the course attendance requirement.

The certificate recognises completion of professional training covering aboveground storage tank inspection, API 653 principles, deterioration assessment, non-destructive testing methods, repair considerations, and tank integrity management.

The Certificate of Completion is not equivalent to API 653 inspector certification. Individuals seeking formal certification must meet the applicable eligibility criteria and examination requirements established by the American Petroleum Institute. Completion of this course does not automatically confer API certification or replace any required professional authorisation.

Course dates

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

  • Europe

    Middle East

    Asia

    Africa

    North America

    Online

    Fee: £3,800

Fees include tuition, course materials and refreshments. Need different dates or a different city? Ask about your preferred date.

Frequently asked questions

What is the API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Training Course?

The API 653 Aboveground Storage Tank Inspector Training Course is a professional training programme from Institute For Oil & Gas Training that develops knowledge of aboveground storage tank inspection, corrosion assessment, non-destructive testing principles, repair considerations, and tank integrity management. It introduces participants to the application of API 653 for applicable in-service steel storage tanks.

Who should attend this course?

The course is designed for tank inspectors, inspection engineers, mechanical engineers, corrosion specialists, non-destructive testing personnel, maintenance professionals, asset integrity specialists, quality control personnel, and oil and gas operations managers. It is also relevant to professionals preparing for the separate API 653 certification process.

Does the course provide API 653 certification?

No. Participants receive a Certificate of Completion from Institute For Oil & Gas Training after completing the course and meeting the attendance requirement. API 653 certification requires a separate application and examination process, subject to the applicable eligibility requirements established by the American Petroleum Institute.

What technical subjects does the course cover?

The programme covers API 653 principles, tank construction, inspection planning, non-destructive testing methods, corrosion mechanisms, storage tank assessment, fitness-for-service principles, repair and alteration considerations, inspection reporting, and risk-based inspection. It also explains the relationship between API 653 and other relevant industry standards.

How does this training support professional development?

The course strengthens participants' understanding of tank inspection requirements, deterioration mechanisms, technical documentation, and integrity assessment. It supports improved communication with engineering and maintenance teams and provides a foundation for professionals seeking to expand their responsibilities in storage tank inspection and asset integrity management.

Next: 19 Oct 2026

4 dates available

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