API RP 2026

This recommended practice (RP) addresses the hazards associated with access/egress onto external and internal floating roofs of in-service petroleum storage tanks and identifies some of the most common practices and procedures for safely accomplishing this activity.

This RP is intended primarily for those persons who are required to perform inspection, service, maintenance, or repair activities that involve descent onto floating roofs of in-service petroleum tanks. It does not cover general considerations that apply to but are not limited to access:
a)on slippery or ice-covered stairways and walkways,
b)during electrical storms,
c)during emergency conditions (such as to extinguish a fire or coverexposed product with foam).

This RP may not apply to daily or routine tasks of tank gaugers and other personnel involved in non-permit-required confined spaces; however, such persons shall be trained and shall be made aware of the potential hazards described herein.

Preparations and precautions for entering petroleum storage tanks that have been removed from service for cleaning are covered in API 2015.

Some owner/operators have policies that are more stringent than those in this document. Some owner/operators do not permit access onto floating roofs while the tanks are in service. In these cases, owner/operator policies will supersede this document with respect to safe access requirements and limitations.