Water tank inspection standards address both the process of checking and maintaining water tanks and the level of safety that may be expected as a result of these processes. Water tank standards from organizations such as the National Fire Protection Association and the American Water Works Association provide ample information and specification for each water tank and its specific purposes.
NFPA and AWWA: What Are These Organizations?
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global nonprofit organization that promotes fire and life safety. The organization develops and publishes codes and standards related to fire protection, including standards for fire water storage tanks.
The American Water Works Association (AWWA) is a nonprofit organization that serves as the largest organization of water professionals in the world. The organization provides education, information, and advocacy for safe water and publishes standards and guidelines for various aspects of water supply and treatment, including standards for potable water storage tanks.
NFPA Standards for Panel Tanks
NFPA standards for fire water storage tanks can be found in NFPA 22: Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection. Chapter four of NFPA 22 covers the general requirements, while the other chapters discuss the type of water tank. Adhering to the requirements and specifications will merit tank inspection companies an NFPA certification.
General Requirements:
- Capacity and Elevation
The individual property conditions determine the size and elevation of the tank.
- Water Sources
The water source supplying the tank needs to be enough and dependable, with allowance for its reliability in the future.
- Location of Tanks
The tanks must be located to protect the tank and structure from fire exposure.
- Tank Materials
Water tank materials are limited to steel, wood, concrete, coated fabrics, and fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks.
- Workmanship
Tank manufacturers are expected to follow these requirements set forth, as well as provide structures that manifest reliability under all specified conditions.
- Plans
Contractors will provide stress sheets, plans required, and the authority having jurisdiction for approval or obtaining building permits and licenses.
- Tank Contractor Responsibility
Experienced contractors will handle all necessary work with careful workmanship and expert supervision. Once the tank is completed, the contractor will test it for its water tightness and notify the authority for official inspection.
- Attachments to Tank Structures
If the water tank is utilized to support signs, flagpoles, etc., they need to be specially made for that purpose.
- Strength
The tank material must be without defects affecting its strength or service.
- National Standards
Only tank materials produced and tested by the requirements of a recognized national standard will be permitted.
- Roof Standards
All tanks will need a roof. OSHA-compliant standard railings will be placed around the roof utility holes and other accessories that require access.
- Roof Vent Standards
Steel rooftops that are basically airtight need a vent above the topmost water level with a corrosion-resistant screen to prevent contamination.
AWWA Standards for Water Tank Inspection
AWWA standards for water tank inspections can be found in AWWA D100: Standard for Welded Carbon Steel Tanks for Water Storage, which provides design, fabrication, and construction requirements for potable water storage tanks, as well as guidance on maintenance and inspection of these tanks.
The AWWA standard list, like the NFPA standard list, provides various specifications and standards for each part of a water tank, including the water tank’s design, accessories, and location.
Importance of Following the NFPA and AWWA Standards for Tank Inspections
Both the NFPA and AWWA provide information on the significance of regular maintenance and inspections for water tanks and outline minimum requirements for these activities. The guidelines and requirements they introduced are essential in maintaining the integrity of water tanks and ensuring the users of a clean, potable water source.
The standards issued by both organizations are minimum requirements and may not be applicable in all jurisdictions. Local codes and regulations may impose additional requirements for the maintenance and inspection of water tanks.
Wrapping Up
Securing water sources is essential, and water tanks are a good investment. Water tanks last considerably longer if you take good care of them.
It is crucial to figure out what needs to be done to extend the service life of your tanks. Adhering to the standards set by organizations with deep research and experience will ensure that you always have clean, potable water at your disposal.
At American Tanks, we have the best water tank inspection and repair team to service your tank needs all over the US. We offer routine maintenance services to ensure the safety and longevity of your water tanks.Visit our website today for complete info on our service offerings!