R309-545-14. Access Openings

  Drinking water storage tanks shall be designed with reasonably convenient access to the interior for cleaning and maintenance.

  (1) Height.

  There shall be at least one opening above the level of the overflow, which shall be framed at least 4 inches above the surface of the roof at the opening; or if on a buried tank, shall be elevated at least 18 inches above any earthen cover over the tank. The frame shall be securely fastened and sealed to the tank roof to prevent any liquid contaminant entering the tank. Concrete drinking water storage tanks shall have raised curbs around access openings, formed and poured continuous with the pouring of the roof, and sloped to direct water away from the frame.

  (2) Shoebox Lid.

  The frame of any access opening shall be provided with a close-fitting, solid shoebox type cover that extends down around the frame at least 2 inches and is furnished with a gasket(s) between the lid and frame. The horizontal surface of the tank lid shall not have any openings, cracks, or penetrations, such as a lock, key hole, or bolted handle that would allow contaminants to enter the tank.

  (3) Locking Device.

  The lid to any access opening shall have a locking device.