Question 1

What Australian standards apply to water storage tanks?

Accepted Answer

The key standards are AS2304 (water storage tanks for fire protection systems), AS4020 (products in contact with drinking water — relevant for potable storage), and AS1851 (maintenance of fire protection systems and equipment). ISO9001 and ISO14001 apply to quality and environmental management systems.

Question 2

How do I know if my tank needs relining or replacement?

Accepted Answer

A structural condition assessment by a specialist is the starting point. In most cases, if the tank structure is sound, RPVC liner installation is significantly more cost-effective than replacement. Our Tank Upgrade Decision Guide (available free on the Downloads page) provides a practical framework for asset managers navigating this decision.

Question 3

How often should a water storage tank be inspected?

Accepted Answer

At minimum annually for fire water tanks under AS1851. For other tanks, we recommend at least every two years, or more frequently in corrosive environments or for aging assets. ROV inspection technology removes the barrier of dewatering — making regular inspection faster and more affordable.

Question 4

What is the most common entry point for wildlife into a water tank?

Accepted Answer

The overflow drain is by far the most overlooked animal entry point in water storage. An open-ended overflow allows birds, reptiles, and small animals to enter, and unlike inlets, there is no mesh to stop them. A flapper valve is the standard fix — inexpensive compared to the cost of a contamination event.

Question 5

What is the difference between a fire tank and a regular storage tank?

Accepted Answer

Fire water tanks must be specifically designed and installed to AS2304, which sets requirements for structural design, fittings, access, and performance. They also require annual AS1851 inspection and maintenance. Standard storage tanks do not carry these specific compliance requirements, though potable water tanks must comply with AS4020 for materials.

Question 6

What is an RPVC liner and when is it the right solution?

Accepted Answer

A Reinforced PVC (RPVC) liner is a structural lining installed inside an existing tank to stop corrosion progression, restore AS4020 compliance, and extend asset life by 10–20 years. It is the right solution when the tank structure is sound but the internal surface is corroded, compromised, or non-compliant — significantly cheaper than full replacement.

Question 7

Can water tanks be inspected without emptying them?

Accepted Answer

Yes. ROV (Remotely Operated Vehicle) and diver inspection methods allow detailed internal inspection while the tank remains in service and full. This eliminates the cost and disruption of dewatering, and is now the preferred approach for large tanks, reservoirs, and assets that cannot be taken offline.

Question 8

How does vandalism affect water tank safety?

Accepted Answer

Vandalism to hatches, locks, and vent screens creates direct contamination pathways. A forced hatch or broken lock is not just a physical damage issue — it leaves the tank open to foreign object entry, deliberate contamination, and ongoing weather ingress. These access events often go unreported and unrepaired for months.

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ALL ARTICLES

When Cleaning Is Not Just Cleaning: Recognising When a Tank Needs More

Sediment Disposal: What Happens to Everything That Comes Out of Your Tank

What 5-15mm of Sediment Actually Looks Like - and Why That Number Matters

How Often Should a Water Tank Be Cleaned? The Actual Answer

When Iron and Manganese Come From Inside the Tank, Not the Source

Sediment in Your Tank: What It Is, Where It Comes From, Why It Matters

Birds Are the Most Common Body Found Inside Australian Tanks

Vandalism and Your Water Tank: The Damage That Goes Unreported

The Open Overflow: How Wildlife Gets In Through Your Drain Point

The Tank Is Already Telling You — How to Read the Evidence of Water Quality Issues

5 Contamination Risks That Have Nothing To Do With the Source Water

How We Clean a Water Tank: The Diver Vacuuming Method

Water is Food: Your Tank is the Crockery

Water Storage In Harsh Environments: What You Need To Know

How RPVC Liners Extend The Life Of Aging Water Tanks

Corrosion Is Killing Your Storage Tanks — And Here’s How To Stop It

Is Your Water Tank A Ticking Time Bomb? 5 Signs Your Tank Is Failing

Why Your Fire Tank Might Fail Compliance — And How To Fix It Fast

From Mines To Hospitals: What Every Sector Gets Wrong About Tank Maintenance

TAKE SOMETHING WITH YOU

Tank Maintenance Checklist

Tank Upgrade Decision Guide

Fire Water Compliance Guide

WTP Operator Checklist

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