Fire Protection Storage Tanks – Uses, Benefits, and Safety Regulations

Devastating fires knows no place or time. It just happens without warning. Sometimes the spread is quick, giving you very little time to react and call for help.

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Having a fire protection system with water storage tanks can speed up your response time. A proactive business would invest now in fire protection water storage at their facility, rather than paying BIG money later in salvaging the damage caused by fire and fines due to violation of regulations.

Fire protection water storage tanks are in high demand in nearly every industry because they provide the ideal solution for fire disaster prevention and quick recovery. Water storage tanks for fire protection come in different materials, shapes, and sizes. Depending on their application, you can find steel, concrete, or fiberglass tanks (e-glass, directional winding glass, or 24 oz. woven glass). These tanks are bolted to a fixed base and can store thousands of gallons of water.

Uses of Fire Protection Storage Tanks

Every industry and municipality susceptible to fire needs a cost-effective and reliable solution to hold large quantities of water in the vicinity. Here are common instances where fire protection tanks are used.

• Warehouses & industrial units: Industries that work with flammable material and warehouses can face massive damage if they catch fire. In case of a large fire, handheld fire extinguishers are not enough. Water storage tanks are often used to feed into the fire sprinkler systems when the municipal water supply falls short.
• National parks and forests: National parks, county wildfires, and remote forests are not easily approachable by land. Water storage tanks can quickly fill up fire-fighting helicopters using a snorkel without landing so that they can help put out the wildfires.
• Special applications: These include water supply for aircraft hangars, high-piled storage, and high rises in earthquake-prone areas.
• Temporary fire suppression: Construction sites can build a temporary fire protection system until more permanent water mains are installed. A pump rental, combined with accessories such as lay flat hoses and temporary fire hydrants, may also be needed to move water into and out of tanks to areas of need.

Benefits of Fire Protection Tanks

Fire protection tanks have numerous benefits that make them the go-to solution for many industries, municipalities, and warehouses.

• Resistant to weather changes: Fire protection tanks are very sturdy and can store water year-round under various weather conditions. They are made of bolted steel plates that are resistant to corrosion. Welded steel tanks can protect surfaces from corrosion caused by environmental factors.
• Easy integration: Fire protection storage tanks are easily integrated with fire protection systems. Seamless integration makes the whole system reliable. Spare parts can also be made available without hassles and with fewer chances of incompatible components.
• Preparation for Emergencies: Massive fires can happen anytime. You may not be able to get a firefighting team in time, and the municipal supply may not be enough. A large tank filled with water that’s ready to use can save the day.

Safety Regulations of Fire Protection Tanks

National Fire Protection Association 22 (NFPA 22) and American Water Works Association (AWWA D-100 and AWWA D-103) govern the standards for fire protection tanks. Businesses would also need to follow several state, federal, and local water tank installation and security codes.

The NFPA 22 and AWWA standards are defined for every stage, including design, manufacturing, tank erection, insulation, maintenance & repair, dismantling, and relocation.

Certain standards also define the location of the water storage tank and the rate of flow of water. For example, the San Diego county fire authority states that for an exposure distance of over 100 ft., a minimum of 250 gallons of water per minute is required. For adjacent buildings, 2,500 gallons per minute is required.

The NFPA also requires that the fire outlet of a 20,000-gallon tank be at least 6 inches and sit 6″ above the tank’s floor. Handrails and caged spiral staircases must follow OSHA standards. There is a host of such safety standards that fire protection tanks need to comply with.

Maintenance of Fire Protection Tanks

Fire protection water storage tanks need regular maintenance. Chapter 9 of the NFPA 25 defines the maintenance standards for storage tanks. This includes external and internal inspection of the tank. Here’s a brief look at some inspection standards.

• Water levels: The water level should be checked quarterly for tanks with a supervised water level alarm. Monthly checks are needed for tanks without an alarm.
  The temperature of the water: The temperature needs to be maintained at a minimum of 40 degrees F to prevent it from freezing, for which a heating system is usually required.
• Heating system inspection: Heating systems are fueled by steam, gas, coal, electricity, or solar power. Daily inspection is recommended for systems with no electric supervision system and quarterly inspection for those with a supervised system.
• Exterior inspection: The supporting structure, foundation catwalks, ladders, and vents of the storage tank need to be inspected for any damage or weakening. They also need to be checked for degrading paint, ice build-up, leaks, and cracks.
• Interior inspection: Tanks without corrosion protection need to be inspected every 3-years, and every 5-years for tanks with coverage. They also need to be checked for pitting, rot, debris, aquatic growth, failure of interior coating, and blockage of the anti-vortex plate.

Interior inspection can be particularly challenging because the fire protection tank is mostly filled with massive quantities of water. When this occurs, steel frac tanks are used for temporary storage for water until the main fire protection tank is inspected and repaired, if required. In case of an emergency, water can be directly sourced from the frac tanks to handle a fire breakout.

Conclusion

Water storage tanks for protection against fire are an ideal and most preferred solution by industries like power plants, municipalities, and warehouses because of their apparent benefits and ease of use. However, these tanks are subject to a range of compliances like NFPA 22 standards that need to be met regularly to avoid penalties.

Safety measures and recommendations for water tanks are for the benefit and safety of businesses, people, and property. Fire water storage tanks need to be checked and verified by the engineering team from a certified agency. If you have not yet considered investing in a fire protection tank, you will need to consider the above aspects and make an informed decision.

If you have water storage tanks at your site that need an inspection, maintenance work, or replacement, or if your fire protection tanks develop a leak, get in touch with Ironclad Environmental Solutions for rapid spill containment and emergency storage solutions.

The Complete Guide to Fire Suppression System through Robust Water Storage Tanks

Fire can devour decades of hard work and cherished memories in mere minutes. Whether it's the family home where generations have grown up or the small business you've poured your heart and soul into building, the thought of losing everything to flames is every American's worst nightmare. A robust fire suppression system isn't just a safety feature—it's your first line of defence in protecting what matters most.

In the face of escalating wildfire risks and increasingly stringent safety regulations, protecting your most irreplaceable assets has become more critical than ever. For rural homeowners and businesses, this means going beyond hope and developing a comprehensive fire defense strategy. Water is your most powerful ally—and having an adequate, readily available supply can mean the difference between total devastation and survival.

The fire safety landscape is evolving rapidly. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 22) now mandates fire suppression tanks in numerous commercial and industrial settings, reflecting a growing recognition that proactive preparation isn't just smart—it's essential. These regulations aren't just bureaucratic checkboxes; they're carefully crafted guidelines designed to safeguard lives, properties, and livelihoods across diverse landscapes and industries.

This guide not only answers those questions but also dives into the types of fire protection water storage tanks available, their pros and cons, and how they integrate with fire protection systems.

What are Fire Protection Water Storage Tanks and What is Their Purpose?

Imagine having a silent guardian standing watch over your most valuable assets, ready to spring into action at a moment's notice. Fire protection water storage tanks are precisely that—your first line of defense when every second counts. These specialized reservoirs are engineered to do one critical job: deliver a powerful, immediate water supply capable of stopping a fire in its tracks, especially in areas where traditional water infrastructure falls short.

For rural properties, remote businesses, and locations with unreliable municipal water systems, these fire suppression tanks are nothing short of a lifeline. They're not just passive storage containers, but sophisticated emergency response systems designed to:

• Ensure an instant, high-volume water supply during critical fire moments
• Overcome limitations of low-pressure or non-existent municipal water sources
• Provide a reliable backup when traditional water systems fail

The strategic placement of fire suppression storage tanks can dramatically transform your fire protection strategy. Depending on your specific needs, you have three primary water storage options:

• Underground Tanks: Discreet and protected from environmental factors
• Fiberglass Tanks: Rust-proof and remarkably durable
• Above Ground Plastic Tanks: Lightweight design built for the long haul
• Bolted Steel Tanks: Cost-effective and built for long-term reliability

So how do fire protection water tanks really work?

A large volume of water is held in the tank until it is needed, then released through fire hoses to the fire suppression system. According to the Fire Protection Research Foundation, the fire suppression tank must provide water at a residual pressure of at least 20 PSI for a specified period defined by local jurisdictions.

The fire protection tank regulates the release of water so that it’s at a steady pace rather than all flowing out at once. This ensures the fire hose will not collapse under the weight of the water and that firefighters have enough water to extinguish the fire.

Types of Fire Protection Systems: The Foundation of Safety

Understanding the relationship between fire protection systems and water storage tanks is essential. Fire suppression systems and fire sprinkler systems are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct roles.

• Fire Suppression Systems are designed to control or extinguish fires in specific hazard zones using alternatives like foam or gas. They often serve as substitutes or supplements to fire sprinklers but need special approval when replacing a sprinkler system.
• Fire Sprinkler Systems, governed by NFPA 13 standards, provide coverage for entire buildings and typically depend on large amounts of water.

When selecting a water tank, its compatibility with your fire suppression or sprinkler system is critical.

The Different Types of Fire Protection Tanks

There are several types of fire protection tanks, each with its benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a breakdown of the most common:

Twelve times stronger than steel by weight, below-ground fiberglass fire suppression water tanks represent the pinnacle of modern fire protection engineering. They're not just containers—they're robust shields designed to preserve your most valuable assets.

Key Advantages:

• Invisible Protection: Completely underground, preserving your property's aesthetic and landscape design
• Fortress-Level Security: Shielded from environmental damage, theft, and potential vandalism
• Unmatched Durability: Corrosion-resistant and built to withstand decades of harsh conditions
• Flexible Installation: Perfect for properties with limited surface area or strict zoning requirements
• H-20/HS-20 axle load ratings: They are robust enough to handle heavy vehicle loads above ground.

Technical Superiority: Why Fiberglass Stands Apart

• Extraordinary strength-to-weight ratio
• Fully customizable to meet specific property needs
• UV stable and environmentally resilient
• Lower cost for medium to large water volumes
• Seamless integration with fire department connection systems

Ideal For:

• Rural properties with limited space
• Commercial sites prioritizing aesthetics and security
• Locations with challenging environmental conditions
• Properties requiring flexible, long-term fire protection solutions

Your fire protection strategy deserves more than a simple storage solution. It deserves a reliable underground fiberglass tank—a silent, below-ground sentinel standing ready to protect everything you've built.

Our steel storage tanks for fire protection systems are engineered with military-grade precision and backed by the most rigorous certifications in the industry.

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Emergency Fire Water Tanks.

Technical Superiority: The Engineering Behind the Fire Suppression Tanks

• ASME Code 'U' stamp certified pressure vessels as part of the Pressure Vessel Quality Control Program for steel containers..
• Multiple welding procedure certifications for diverse metal types
• Comprehensive in-house verification and design using state-of-the-art AutoCAD Codeware software

Uncompromising Quality Assurance

Our tanks undergo exhaustive testing that would make NASA engineers proud, including:

• Visual examinations
• Magnetic particle inspections
• Radiographic and penetrant testing
• Advanced ultrasonic examinations
• Comprehensive leak testing
• Supervised by AWS Certified Welding Inspectors

Craftsmanship Meets Innovation

Every tank is a testament to skilled craftsmanship:

• Trained by AWS Certified Welding Educators
• Cutting-edge welding technologies
• Meticulous quality control processes
• Certified in accordance with the highest industry standards

Ideal For:

• Large municipal systems
• Industrial complexes
• Agricultural operations
• Emergency response facilities
• Locations requiring massive water storage capacity

These steel sentinels stand ready—scalable from modest volumes to a staggering 1 million gallons, providing unparalleled fire protection for even the most demanding environments.

Polyethylene fire suppression tanks represent the next generation of fire protection technology. Engineered to deliver reliable performance in sizes ranging from 1,100 to 20,000 gallons, these tanks offer a perfect balance of durability, affordability, and adaptability for properties of all sizes.

Technical Superiority: The Polymer Advantage

• Seamless rotational molded construction
• 100% UV-resistant material
• Chemical and corrosion-resistant design
• Lightweight yet incredibly durable
• No seams or welds to compromise structural integrity
• Excellent thermal stability
• Resistant to algae and bacterial growth

Unmatched Versatility

Poly tanks shine where other materials falter:

• Ideal for residential, agricultural, and commercial applications
• Vertical design maximizes space efficiency
• Easy transportation and installation
• Minimal maintenance requirements
• Frost-resistant for extreme climate conditions
• Can be installed above or on ground
• Food-grade quality materials

Strategic Performance Benefits

• Rapid water deployment for emergency fire suppression
• Consistent water quality preservation
• Long-term cost-effectiveness
• Minimal environmental impact
• Adaptable to diverse installation environments

Ideal For:

• Rural properties with limited infrastructure
• Small to medium commercial sites
• Agricultural operations
• Residential fire protection systems
• Remote locations with challenging environmental conditions

Choosing Your Fire Protection Tank: Above-Ground vs. Underground Water Storage Options

Selecting the right fire protection tank isn't just a technical decision—it's a strategic investment in your property's safety and long-term resilience. Each installation method offers unique advantages that can make a critical difference in your fire protection strategy.

The Underground Advantage: Hidden Strength, Superior Protection 

Underground tanks—primarily crafted from fiberglass and plastic—represent the gold standard of durability and environmental resistance. These water storage tanks offer:

• Unparalleled protection from environmental extremes
• Minimal aesthetic impact on your property
• Enhanced insulation and temperature stability
• Maximum protection from potential physical damage
• Long-term durability that justifies the higher initial investment

Above-Ground Tanks: Speed and Accessibility

For those prioritizing quick deployment and immediate accessibility, above-ground tanks provide a compelling alternative:

• Faster, less complex installation process
• Lower upfront installation costs
• Easy visual inspection and maintenance
• Simpler retrofit options for existing properties
• Quick deployment for urgent protection needs

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fire Protection Tank

Selecting the right tank isn't just about size or material; several critical factors should inform your decision:

Capacity

Fire suppression demands significant water reserves. Always adhere to local fire code requirements, which may dictate minimum capacities. Consider your property's specific needs and potential fire risks when determining tank size.

Durability and Material

Evaluate the environmental conditions your tank will face. Steel tanks are robust but may corrode over time without proper liners, while plastic tanks are lighter but not as structurally strong. Your choice should balance longevity, performance, and environmental resistance.

Property Layout and Space Constraints

Assess the available installation space carefully. The tank must fit within your property's layout while maintaining accessibility for maintenance and fire department connections.

Integration with Fire Systems

Ensure the tank has fire department connections (FDC) that meet local standards, such as National Hose Thread (NH/NST) compatibility. The tank should seamlessly integrate with existing fire suppression infrastructure.

Regulatory Compliance

Standards like NFPA 22 (for private fire protection water tanks) and NFPA 13 (for sprinkler systems) outline essential guidelines. Check with your local fire marshal for jurisdiction-specific details to ensure full compliance.

Budget and Long-Term Costs

Consider not just the initial purchase price, but also:

• Installation expenses
• Ongoing maintenance requirements
• Potential repair or replacement costs
• Long-term durability and performance

Environmental Considerations

Evaluate local environmental conditions that might impact tank performance, including:

• Temperature fluctuations
• Potential corrosive elements
• Exposure to sunlight or extreme weather
• Soil conditions at the installation site

Specific Fire Protection Requirements

Tailor your tank selection to your specific fire protection needs, which may vary based on:

• Type of property (residential, commercial, industrial)
• Specific fire risks
• Local fire code requirements
• Complexity of fire suppression systems

The best choice for a fire suppression tank system isn't universal—it's personal. The factors discussed above should guide you to the perfect fire protection tank solution.

How are Fire Protection Water Tanks Regulated?

Fire protection tanks must adhere to rigorous industry standards and undergo regular inspections to ensure optimal performance and reliability. Key certifications include NSF/ANSI 61 for water quality, NFPA 22 for design and installation, and NFPA for suburban and rural firefighting water supply. The NFPA fire code specifies comprehensive standards for tank design, construction, and maintenance.

The recommended inspection schedule as per NFPA 25 is as follows:

• Fire-Water Tank Interior – Every 5 Years – Per 9.2.6.1.2
• Fire-Water Tank Interior without Corrosion Protection – Every 3 Years – Per 9.2.6.1.1
• Exterior of Fire Water Tank – Quarterly – Per 9.2.5.1

Who Needs Fire Protection Water Tanks?

The NFPA’S fire code requires fire protection water tanks in many commercial and industrial buildings, but the main factor regulating this additional storage will be the distance of your structure from a municipally-supplied water source and the availability of an adequate water supply near your location. Your residential property also needs reliable access to a fire suppression system.

What Materials Are Used in Fire Protection Water Tanks?

Steel tanks are modular bolted designs that make installation a breeze and require no welding or field coating. They are made from galvanized corrugated steel and can withstand winds up to 165 mph, snow, and even seismic activity.

• Fiberglass tanks are generally made from one of the following resins:
• Orthophthalic Resin: General Purpose
• Isophthalic Resin: Enhanced chemical resistance, tensile strength, durability and fatigue resistance
• Vinyl Ester Resin Systems: Highest quality of chemical and heat resistance, therefore they are commonly used in industrial applications
• Steel Water Tanks: Modular bolted design for seamless installation and meet NFPA22, AWWA, CBC, NSF 61 standards.
• Plastic Water Storage Tanks: Made from FDA-approved food-grade materials. Plastic storage tanks offer an affordable and scalable alternative for fire suppression systems.

Fire Protection Tank Accessories: Elevating Functionality

Supporting Systems: Fire Suppression Innovations

Cost and Maintenance of Fire Protection Tanks

Tank Depot's Fire Suppression Water Tanks Offer Unrivalled Protection

Tank Depot has a wide selection of fire protection water tanks that are made from high-quality materials and meet all regulatory requirements. Our tanks are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them the best option for your fire protection needs. Plus, we customize your water storage tank to meet unique project requirements and specifications.

Contact us today for more help in customizing your fire protection water storage tank. We are eager to work together and make your project a success.

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