MELVILLE, NY- Water supply systems are the backbone of any community. Corrosion consulting and inspection services (CCIS) is a key component in ensuring a safe water supply, bringing inspectors off the ground to inspect the coatings of water tanks. Requiring more than just a healthy attitude towards heights, CCIS demands an in-depth knowledge of the challenges facing tank owners and operators. John Mayo, Senior Graphic Designer of H2M architects + engineers, recently climbed a water tower in Bethpage, NY with one of the firm’s CCIS teams.
Having no experience in climbing water towers, Mr. Mayo developed a new found respect for the inspectors that make the climb multiple times per day. “The climb was much more difficult than anticipated, not necessarily for the height but due to the ladders which were completely vertical at a 90 degree angle,” Mr. Mayo explained. “Not only do the inspectors have to be safe in these climbs, but they also have to do their jobs,” he continued.
Standard water towers have a height of approximately 130 feet and coatings inspectors have to ascend steep, exposed ladders multiple times per day in order to perform their job duties properly. Requiring the use of harnesses and tethers, inspectors have to ensure their safety while also inspecting and coating the towers in order to ensure a safe water supply is available to the community in which the tower resides.
Billy Campbell, H2M’s Manager of Coating Inspection Services, guided Mr. Mayo through the climb, and taught him what to do in any situation and also instructed him in how to use all of the equipment safely. “Billy did an amazing job gearing me up, he is an incredible instructor and great at what he does,” Mr. Mayo said.
“Reaching the top of the tower and looking out at the beautiful views of Long Island made the difficult climb worthwhile,” Mr. Mayo continued. “Seeing the other water towers that are dotted across Long Island was truly breathtaking,” he explained.
For more than 80 years H2M architects + engineers has built its engineering practice around its service to municipal water clients. The firm’s engineers work directly with municipal water suppliers and private water utilities to ensure drinking water safety and efficient distribution to the communities they serve. With a full complement of NACE-certified inspectors, petroleum tank inspectors, lead inspectors and protective coating specialists, H2M’s CCIS team is well-versed in these challenges, offering services ranging from cellular coordination to new tank design.
About H2M
H2M is a full-service consulting and design firm offering the expertise of more than 290 architects, engineers (water supply, civil/site, structural, M/E/P, wastewater and environmental), planners, designers, inspectors, surveyors and scientists. H2M meets the challenges associated with buildings and infrastructure and has been serving various markets throughout Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut for over 80 years. For more information, please visit www.h2m.com.
H2M Recruitment: H2M continuously seeks motivated college graduates and experienced professionals to join our team. The firm offers a competitive base salary and a comprehensive benefit package that includes: medical, dental, vision, and life; FSA/HSA and long and short-term disability insurances; 401(k) retirement savings plan; bonus plan; tuition reimbursement; and professional development opportunities. To view current job openings, please visit www.h2m.com/careers.
