cold cutting on a gas tank in a gas station!!!

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Hi Im interested to cut a hole (2 1/2 inches) and to make threads in order to fit an instrument on many steel gas stations tanks.They told me that is safe to do it using a low turning power tool if the tank is filled with diesel.The tank is 2  meters under the ground and I have access to the upper side of the tank only through a manhole and the space to work is limited.Do you think that is a safe method to do it?Any suggestions?ThanksLazaros
Reply:I'd be far more worried about working in the confined space than about drilling a diesel tank.  You can drop a match in diesel.  Better get some supplied air for that manhole, though.
Reply:If there is any doubt, I would find a way not to do it. What MAC says about the confined space is an issue. Under Safety Orders, at least in California, supplied air is needed and also, if a worker enters a confined space, there must be another person there. I would also be concerned about static electricity buildup. Good luck.
Reply:If you have access to the inside of the tank through the manhole and the hole you want is in the top of the tank beside the manhole, use a Green Lee type punch.  You drill a small (1/2" or so) hole, place the draw bolt through the hole, attach the punch to the bolt and tighten the bolt. There are hydraulic units as well. A larger electrical supplier should have more info on this, or maybe even rent the tool.Just my  opinion, not from a book, just from the road.Howes Welding Inc.www.howesweldinginc.com