In collaboration with Jesus Manso, Global HSSEQ Lead, Exolum.

Terminal operators must keep products moving while maintaining ageing assets, meeting regulatory requirements and ensuring safe, reliable operations. In collaboration with Jesus Manso, Global HSSEQ Lead, Exolum this article explores the operational pressures reshaping tank storage and shares his perspectives on how leaders can strengthen safety, reliability and performance.

With ageing assets, tighter regulations and limited maintenance windows, terminal operators must balance safety and efficiency. Discover how industry leaders are addressing these challenges at StocExpo.

Ageing assets and maintenance constraints

Many terminals rely on ageing infrastructure where corrosion and structural deterioration can be difficult to detect. To maximise limited inspection and maintenance opportunities, operators increasingly use risk-based inspection, digital monitoring and predictive analytics to focus resources on higher-risk assets and reduce downtime.

The challenge extends beyond asset condition. Customer demand and operational schedules can constrain maintenance, inspections and training activities. Managing these competing priorities safely and effectively is becoming a critical leadership capability across the industry.

Skills shortages and workforce capability

The tank storage industry faces growing skills shortages as experienced personnel retire, and critical roles become harder to fill. Training, apprenticeships, mentorship and workforce planning help build capability, while a positive culture and competitive benefits support retention.

Workforce capability goes beyond technical skills. Human factors such as workload, fatigue, time pressure and supervision can affect performance and decision-making, particularly during periods of operational pressure.

To address this, leading organisations combine training with regular field engagement between managers and frontline personnel. These discussions reinforce expectations, strengthen risk awareness and support a stronger operational culture.

Evolving regulation and environmental expectations

Regulations and environmental expectations continue to tighten, requiring operators to strengthen compliance, asset integrity and emissions management while reducing safety, enforcement and reputational risks.

Consistency under pressure

Maintaining standards under operational pressure depends on the effective implementation of critical controls, not just procedures. Leading operators focus on verifying controls before high-risk activities and encouraging open risk discussions, helping identify weaknesses and prevent incidents before they occur.