Written by: Emily Joswiak • March 4, 2025• Business

The Different Ways That Corrosion Can Hurt Your Business

Corrosion is inevitable, so you should do what you can to combat it. Read up on the many different ways that corrosion will hurt your business.

A close up view of a large pipe where the pipe and the seals are completely corroded, turning orange and brown.

Corrosion can negatively affect your business, causing financial and operational challenges. Whether you own a startup or a large corporation, protecting your physical assets from corrosion should be an essential part of your business strategy. By understanding the different ways that corrosion can hurt your business, you can implement effective strategies to protect your enterprise in the long run.

Reduced Lifespan of Assets

One of the most significant consequences of corrosion is the reduced lifespan of assets. Machinery, equipment, infrastructure, and buildings are vulnerable to corrosion without preventative maintenance. Corrosion gradually eats away at the materials, compromising their strength and functionality over time.

This can lead to structural damage, weak components, and eventual failure of assets. In the long term, failing to address corrosion increases costs, disrupts operations, and diminishes your ability to plan for future investments.

Tank Leaks and Spills

If your business involves storing liquids or chemicals in tanks, you know that corrosion is an ever-present concern. Over time, corrosive substances can degrade the tank walls and cause leaks, spills, or catastrophic failures. These are just some of the biggest safety issues that come with a corroded tank. Costly cleanup efforts and harm to the surrounding environment fall to you.

Leaks and spills may also pose safety risks for employees who work near these tanks. Regulatory penalties for environmental damage and the costs associated with emergency response can add up, making proactive corrosion management essential for your businesses.

Equipment Breakdowns

Corrosion can cause equipment breakdowns, leading to operational disruptions and financial strain. Even minor corrosion can negatively affect the performance and durability of machinery. Unplanned downtime can delay production schedules, disrupt supply chains, and result in losses for your clients if you miss deadlines. Thankfully, preventing corrosion through regular maintenance and protective measures can prevent these costly breakdowns.

Health and Safety Risks

Corrosion poses serious health and safety risks for employees, customers, and the surrounding community. For example, corroded pipes, valves, or tanks in industrial facilities can leak hazardous materials or chemicals, putting workers at risk. Corrosion can also weaken structural components, such as staircases, walkways, or support beams, increasing the likelihood of accidents and injuries.

Take proactive measures so you can prevent corrosion and all the different ways that it can hurt your business. Don’t wait until it’s too late! Invest in corrosion prevention measures today for a more secure and successful future for your business. Taking action now can save you time, money, and resources in the long run.

(Visited 10 times, 1 visits today)