NFPA 22 Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection Save Lives, Property, and Cost
Water supplying firefighting and fire protection systems may come from a tank. Water tanks provide buildings with a consistent, accessible water source. Alternative water sources like tanks are required when the municipal water system isn’t adequate or available.
Insurance for building in some areas may require a fire protection water tank. Consult directly with insurance companies to determine requirements and how much having a fire protection system can reduce cost. Having a consistent water reserve for emergencies also decreases the risk and destruction fires may cause.
NFPA 22 is the common standard across America that regulates water tanks for private fire protection. The standard sets requirements for the design, construction, installation, and maintenance of water tanks and accessories. State and County governments often base fire codes on NFPA standards, as well as local needs.
NFPA 22.1. Capacity and Elevation (4.1):
The size and elevation of the water tank are determined by the individual property conditions as well as any local authority factors involved. The local fire marshall may be the authority with jurisdiction to determine the fire flow requirements that decide the capacity of the tank needed.
The fire protection system at the Madera Travel Center requires 50,000-gallons of water storage. Two custom XLE 25/03 Pioneer Water Tanks in Surfmist® COLORBOND® steel were specified by a local engineer. One tank will act as a reserve for fire protection in case of an emergency. The water supply will feed a fire sprinkler system pump adjacent to the tank. The pump provides pressurized water to the truck stop building.
NFPA 22.4. Tank Materials (4.4):
Water tank materials are limited to steel, wood, concrete, coated fabrics, and fiberglass-reinforced plastic tanks.
Pioneer Water Tanks are manufactured with ZINCALUME® Steel. ZINCALUME® steel Pioneer Water Tanks are third-party tested and proven to withstand fire immersion. This enables Pioneer Water Tanks to provide a consistent water supply, even during a fire emergency.
NFPA 22.6. Plans (4.6):
Contractors will provide stress sheets, plans required, the authority having jurisdiction for approval or for obtaining building permits and licenses. The jurisdiction for approval of layouts will be given complete information covered in NFPA 22 standard chapter 4.6.2.2.
Pioneer Water Tanks offer the option of adding a project-specific engineering package. Our engineering includes a state-certified engineer wet-stamped cover letter to get started for permitting.
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