18138_Authority_Feb

municipalauthorities.org | 33 include it in the specifications. This is not a simple one- or two-sentence note—it requires a full page or two to ensure contractors understand expectations during bidding and execution. Key components include: • Who will perform the inspection, how, and who will pay for it? • What will be inspected, and how will it be documented? • Criteria for determining if rework is required. • Who is responsible for draining the tank, cleaning it out, and disinfecting it upon completion of the work? Will the owner, engineer and inspector be reimbursed for their time in overseeing the work? What to Expect Using an ROV, a First Anniversary Inspection can be performed while the tank remains full, minimizing disruption. I recommend that owners hire the inspection firm directly to avoid conflicts of interest. The resulting report will document findings and provide repair recommendations. The most common repairs I see include: 1. Coating Touch-Ups Nearly 95% of coating issues appear within the first year. Correcting them during the warranty period, and in accordance with the specifications and coating manufacturer’s recommendations, ensures the coatings will reach their full lifespan. 2. Screen Repairs or Replacements I had one roof vent screen completely disintegrate in the first year due to very high chlorine levels in the water and chlorine gas coming out the vent. A few tanks had frost-free roof vents where the screen was not sitting level or sealing inside of the vent due to warped screen frames. And once, an overflow screen had been painted during touch-ups when it shouldn’t have been, blocking much of the discharge. In all cases, these problems were fixed at no cost to the owner, allowing the tanks to operate correctly and safely. 3. Mixer Repairs I’ve observed active mixers spinning on their retrieval chains or banging into tank risers. Simple fixes, like using magnets to secure the mixer, can resolve these issues. Continued on page 66.