Dears;
I don't exactly know from API code(s) reference, but in certain cases
on Vertical API 650 design welded steel petroleum storage tanks
small diameter tapping from different shell level points(duly isolated with block valves)are practiced along with needed reinforcement (doublers)if any,required to ensure shell plate's mechanical withstanding strength.
These points should not make loss of blanket gas normally; but the sampled material(s) come from close vicinity of tapping location and might not be fully representative.
Other forum colleagues(more learned) may guide us better/ further on the issue.
Best Regards
Qalander(Chem)