How to prepare for a tightness test with a clear scope
Information, coordination and conditions to confirm before the technical visit, without promising a result or applying universal requirements.
Selection and technical context
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Conceptual illustration; it does not depict an approved test setup or procedure. Confirm the method and its conditions in the applicable technical listing.
In this article
Preparing for a tightness test does not mean making blind repairs to “ensure” a pass. It means providing correct information, defining the scope and coordinating the conditions the method requires.
Identify the system
Record each tank’s number or name, capacity, stored product, approximate level, associated lines and connected equipment. If drawings, calibration charts, previous reports or intervention history exist, make them available and flag discrepancies.
Confirm the method and its conditions
MESA 2-D is a nonvolumetric method based on vacuum, acoustic signals and a water-ingress sensor. Its independent evaluation listing defines application conditions; universal percentages or timing from another test should not replace them. The provider should confirm that the method applies to the tank, product and existing level.
Coordinate operations
Before the visit, agree which equipment must be available or out of service, who authorizes access and which conditions require work to stop. For MESA 2-D, the technical listing requires no dispensing or fuel delivery during the test of the system being evaluated. Agree its isolation with the provider and confirm whether other independent systems can operate; do not promise uninterrupted operation for the whole station.
Document findings instead of hiding them
Alarms, water, visible damage, inventory differences or recent repairs are input information. Correcting an evident finding may be appropriate, but it should remain documented. Legitimate preparation never means changing conditions to obtain a different result.
What should remain at closeout
The report should identify the evaluated system, method, conditions, scope and result. If the result does not meet the criterion or is inconclusive, the report must be reviewed and the next diagnostic step defined; the test does not always locate the ingress or release point by itself.
For the facility procedure, confirm requirements and validity directly with DINASEPI. The technical test contributes evidence but does not replace the authority’s inspection or decision. If you are still comparing proposals, see our guide to assessing a provider.
