Posted on December 27, 2024 by Brent Phillips

City water managers and asset water managers of municipal systems face the critical responsibility of maintaining water towers and tanks to ensure safe, clean, and efficient water storage. Among the many maintenance considerations, non-slip solutions have emerged as an essential tool for improving safety and extending the longevity of these vital infrastructure assets. 

But are they a good choice? Let’s explore their benefits and applications.

Safety for Workers and Maintenance Crews

Water towers and tanks often require regular inspections, cleaning, and repairs, which involve workers navigating potentially hazardous surfaces. Non-slip coatings provide a textured surface that significantly reduces the risk of slips and falls during maintenance activities.

This is especially important in areas exposed to water, humidity, or algae growth, which can make surfaces slick. For example, polyurethane-based coatings like Durabak create a durable, waterproof membrane that offers excellent traction even in wet conditions. By investing in non-slip solutions, municipalities can enhance worker safety and comply with OSHA regulations for fall protection.

Protection Against Corrosion and Wear

Non-slip coatings do more than improve safety—they also protect the structural integrity of water towers and tanks. Metal tanks are particularly vulnerable to corrosion caused by moisture, chemicals, and temperature fluctuations. Non-slip coatings act as a barrier, shielding surfaces from these elements.

Products like epoxy or polyurethane coatings are designed to resist peeling, flaking, or chipping over time, ensuring long-lasting protection. This dual functionality—safety enhancement and corrosion resistance—makes non-slip solutions a cost-effective choice for municipalities aiming to extend the lifespan of their water assets.

Ease of Application and Maintenance

Modern non-slip solutions are engineered for ease of application. They can be applied using brushes, rollers, or spray guns and typically dry within hours.

This minimizes downtime for water towers or tanks during maintenance operations. Additionally, many non-slip coatings can be reapplied directly over existing layers without the need for extensive surface preparation. This feature reduces labor costs and ensures that the protective layer remains effective over time.

Aesthetic and Functional Benefits

Beyond safety and durability, non-slip coatings can enhance the visual appeal of water towers for municipalities. City council members frequently motion to use water towers as community landmarks or billboards.

Non-slip coatings are available in various colors and finishes, allowing cities to preserve a community brand while safeguarding their water assets. Furthermore, these coatings can be combined with anti-graffiti treatments to reduce vandalism-related maintenance costs.

Smart Investment for Municipalities

For city water managers tasked with maintaining aging infrastructure amidst growing demand for clean water storage, non-slip solutions are an invaluable investment. They provide a comprehensive approach to safety, durability, and aesthetic preservation. By incorporating these coatings into routine maintenance plans, municipalities can protect their workforce while ensuring the long-term functionality of their water towers and tanks.

If your municipality is considering upgrading its water storage tower or has safety concerns, contact the experts at Cunningham Inc. today by calling (620) 848-3030. They offer tailored solutions to meet your municipality’s needs. From expert inspections to advanced coating applications, the Cunningham team is ready to help safeguard your community’s most vital resource.