Buyer's Guide Aerial Apparatus Aerial devices come in many configurations. Read this guide to help determine the best configuration for your department. TC031 559 Buyer's Guide Stepping, Standing and Walking Surfaces An important component on any fire apparatus design is thoughtful, safe, and durable step surfaces. Steps and step surfaces exist all over the apparatus. Step surfaces can commonly be found on top of front bumper extensions, at cab entry points, at body entry points, on top of the fire apparatus body, at the pump operator position, along the fire pump enclosure/module, and on the apparatus body. Well-designed step surfaces can be the difference between a safe and useful tool and a workplace hazard. TC042 97 Buyer's Guide Ladder & Equipment Racks As fire apparatus continue to increase in size, ladder and equipment mounts have increased in popularity, mounting to the side or roof of an apparatus and lowering equipment to a convenient height for safe retrieval. TC056 128 Service Guide Diesel Engine Emissions Impact on Indoor Air Quality – As new diesel engines burn cleaner every year, some Chiefs wonder what impact the exhaust emissions have on air quality inside the station garage. This analytical study looks at the various tailpipe pollutants and suggests a method of answering this question. TC004 47 Buyer's Guide Auxiliary Braking Systems Auxiliary Brake System are required on every fire apparatus over 33,000 lbs gross vehicle weight. This guide describes the four basis types of brake and the advantages of each. TC033 256 Buyer's Guide Roll-Up Compartment Doors Compartment doors are an important part of each fire apparatus and there are many factors to consider when deciding the type of doors and the features that would be best for a department and a given application. TC054 164 Service Guide Frame Corrosion Corrosion is a natural process that results in the gradual destruction of materials (usually metals) by chemical and/or electrochemical reaction with their environment. Galvanic corrosion is the same process that occurs in a lead-acid battery, electrons move from one metal to another when immersed in a fluid medium (corrosive environment). TC080 13 Buyer's Guide Electronic Pressure Governors (EPGs) Describes the history, use, and function of the fire apparatus electronic pressure governor (EPG). TC052 165 Legal Emergency Vehicle Size and Weight Regulation Guideline Emergency vehicles in general, and fire apparatus in particular, are often heavier and larger than typical commercial vehicles. Few people question the need for emergency vehicles, or their axle capacities, when these vehicles show up at the scene of a fire or other emergency. But before they can get to the scene, these vehicles must be moved from their place of manufacture, often crossing through many States, before being delivered to the local department. While most of their miles will be logged within a few miles of the fire station, some emergency vehicles will have the occasion to travel great distances in support of natural disaster relief or to fight wild fires in neighboring counties or States.

Size and weight regulations applicable to emergency vehicles currently vary from one State to the next. Fire Apparatus Manufacturers Association (FAMA) offer this document as a guide to emergency vehicle size and weight laws and regulations.
TC009 370 Buyer's Guide Headlamps Every fire apparatus needs a set of headlamps. This guide describes headlamp technology and some key points fire departments should know when specifying, repairing, or upgrading fire apparatus headlamps. TC040 5 Buyer's Guide Front Suspension Front suspension systems are an important factor in the ride quality, equipment protection, vehicle handling/stability, and ongoing maintenance of a fire truck. When developing specifications for the front suspension on a fire apparatus, consideration should be given to handling, ride quality, chassis/equipment protection, initial cost, and total cost of ownership. TC048 9 Buyer's Guide Deck Guns and Aerial Monitors High volume master stream discharge devices have many names. Deck gun, water cannon, deluge, monitor, ladder pipe and others. This Buyer’s Guide will review the important features, benefits, and safety considerations of these high flow devices that can be found on pumpers and aerial devices. In today’s fire service, many times these high flow rates of water are required for quick knockdown of moderate sized fires, or containment of very large fires in a defensive or “surround and drown” operation. TC071 55 Buyer's Guide Apparatus Seating In a modern fire apparatus, seats provide an interface between the human firefighter and the mechanical vehicle. The seats need to provide support and positioning for the human body and must allow the firefighter to perform the required work, whether that is driving or some other task. Positioning must locate the human body in a place of safety with respect to any restraint system and the rest of the internal cab environment. TC036 238 Buyer's Guide Line Voltage Generators Mobile line voltage generators primarily provide alternating current (AC) power at an emergency response event. This may be carried on the fire apparatus and removed during use, or it may be permanently mounted. In some cases, the generator can provide power while driving as well. TC038 6 NFPA NFPA Standards New Process Presentation NFPA has created an on-line system for submission of comments on standards. This presentation was given to FAMA members in April of to educate on the standards process and how to submit comments using the new system. TC022 35 Buyer's Guide Occupant Protection Occupant protections systems are described in this guide to help determine the right specifications for new apparatus. TC057 128 Buyer's Guide Reels Reels on fire and rescue apparatus allow convenient storage, and quick payout and retrieval of electrical cords, air, water, and hydraulic hoses. Some of the key considerations when choosing a fire truck hose reel are contained here. TC055 79 Buyer's Guide Retroreflective Striping and Chevron Retroreflective striping on fire apparatus has been listed as a guideline in NFPA dating back to . The edition of NFPA added rear body chevron reflective striping and it remains in the current edition. When specifying retroreflective striping on fire apparatus whether the installation is performed by the apparatus manufacturer, a third party installer or installing it yourself, NFPA compliance should be specified. This should cover the technical aspect of retroreflectivity. This guide will list the specific installation areas in NFPA and show examples of each.
TC043 643 Buyer's Guide Batteries, Alternators, and Chargers The charging system is one of the most vital parts of any vehicle. The three main components of a Fire Apparatus charging system are the batteries, alternator, and charger. All three work in conjunction to keep the vehicle and its many systems operating correctly. When choosing a charging system all three components should be selected to insure that they will support each other properly. TC035 104 Buyer's Guide Wheels The decision for aluminum or steel wheels for fire apparatus is typically a matter of load, dollars and aesthetics. When specifying a fire apparatus, wheel choice does have an impact on overall cost of the unit. TC063 124 Buyer's Guide Fire Apparatus Sirens The end user has many options when it comes to selecting the Siren system for their apparatus. The purpose of this guide is to help the user select a certified system consisting of an amplifier and a speaker. TC050 92 FAMA Standards Designated Standing and Walking Surface Yellow Line Standard The intent of the standard in specifying the yellow or orange line is two-fold. The first is to aid in training new firefighters on where they should and should not be when operating at height. The second is to provide a visual aid in determining when an operator is approaching the edge of the designated surface. TC012 46 Buyer's Guide Tanker or Tender Apparatus The intent of this Tanker or Tender Apparatus Buyer’s Guide is to provide an overview of requirements and available options to consider when specifying and purchasing a new tanker/tender. The guide is separated into the major categories of topics that should be evaluated, considered, and thoroughly researched prior to purchasing an apparatus. TC073 103 White Paper Global Supply Chain Struggles: Impact on the Fire Service The international global supply chain has taken a strong hit from the COVID 19 pandemic and appears to be undergoing what may be termed “The Long Covid Syndrome.” Following is a summary of how this supply chain syndrome is affecting you and the entire fire service. TC082 103 Buyer's Guide Fire Apparatus Standards Changes – The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) has for years published standards for fire apparatus. Beginning with apparatus contracted for after January 1, , these standards have been renamed and renumbered. The standards have also been revised. This document presents the highlights of these changes and is for reference only. Refer to the actual standards documents available at NFPA.org. TC005 – 925 Buyer's Guide Scene Lighting The NFPA Standard for Automotive Fire Apparatus does not specifically require the use of Scene Lighting on fire apparatus and makes minimal specific reference to requirements for apparatus that do incorporate the technology. Even though not required, Scene Lighting is an extremely popular choice for fire apparatus today and is explained a bit further in this Buyer’s Guide. TC037 245 Buyer's Guide Warning Lights Night Mode The progression of high intensity LED warning lights has caused a concern over the warning lights being too bright during nighttime. During code 3 operation it is important that drivers are alerted to emergency apparatus that are approaching quickly. During blocking mode, however, we want drivers to remain undistracted and attentive while passing the scene, with all their faculties and vision optimized for safe driving.

The NFPA apparatus committee began debating new requirements to address this concern, but new criteria will not be available from NFPA until . This FAMA Buyer's Guide provides guidance until the NFPA makes changes to the standard.
TC078 80 Buyer's Guide Tires The purpose of this guide is to provide departments with basic knowledge to assist in selecting the optimum tires for your fire apparatus. TC062 157 Buyer's Guide Public Safety Drone Program The use of Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) in public safety has increased exponentially in recent years due to their ability to improve response-scene situational awareness at a relatively low cost. TC083 19 Buyer's Guide Warning Lights There are many choices to be made for Fire Truck Warning Lights when purchasing your new apparatus. The goal of this buyer’s guide is to help with those choices and make that decision-making process much easier. TC044 348 Legal Importance of Fire Apparatus New Technology -Gimme What you Got There are tens of thousands of out-dated fire apparatus on the road. This presentation is an informative discussion by trial lawyer Jim Juneau on the role of new technology in fire apparatus, and why it is important for departments to consider embracing the latest apparatus technology. TC017 73 Buyer's Guide Crew Compartment Storage There are three areas to consider when planning the safe outfitting of your crew cab – SCBAs, tools, and helmets. All should abide by the NFPA standard, and tools should be limited to the absolute necessities. Proper SCBA brackets should be installed as well as enough helmet holders to match the capacity of the cab. TC051 172 Research NIOSH Anthropometric Study These documents provide the results of a study by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) on firefighter size and weight measurements. TC032 48 Buyer's Guide Apparatus Mounted Winches This Buyers Guide provides general information that will help you select a winch for your fire rescue apparatus. TC034 163 Buyer's Guides Air Brakes This Buyer’s Guide covers the topic of Air Brakes on Fire Truck Apparatus and more specifically the choice between specifying Drum or Air Disc Brakes. Additionally, information is presented on the components that make up both braking systems and the steps necessary for maintenance. We believe this is important information to consider before your purchase so that you are fully informed before making your choice. TC087 40 Buyer's Guide Body Access This buyer’s guide explains the various types of access options that are available for fire apparatus. TC059 98 Buyer's Guide Equipment Mounting – Body This buyer’s guide looks at enhancing the performance of your department, while protecting tools and equipment by properly mounting them. This can be achieved by making tool mounting decisions earlier in the budget and truck planning processes. TC058 164 FAMA Standards Graphical Symbols This document gives the fire and rescue community an option for labeling common controls with a graphical representation of their function. While FAMA apparatus and equipment manufacturers are not required to use these symbols, this resource can be used by those fire departments who wish to specify industry standard text-free control symbols on their apparatus. TC008 53 FAMA Standards Fire Apparatus Common Safety Signs This document gives the fire apparatus manufacturers an option to provide standardized product safety sign text and artwork for common hazard for use on fire and rescue apparatus. TC010 76 Service Guide DEF Sensor Reliability Guidance This FAMA guidance document is intended to provide fire departments and fire apparatus service personnel information on the impact of DEF sensor reliability and guidance on how to keep apparatus in service. TC081 107 Buyer's Guide Supplemental Exhaust Emission Systems This guide is intended to help fire service personnel understand current emissions systems installed on fire apparatus and discuss options for supplemental exhaust systems which may further reduce exhaust gas present during operation within the fire house. TC066 89 Service Guide Diesel Engine DPF SCR Guidance Document This guide is intended to help fire service personnel understand the emissions systems on fire apparatus and to provide specific guidance on how to address emissions related concerns. The issues addressed will cover CUSTOM CHASSIS apparatus equipped with either Diesel Particulate Filters (DPF) or Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) after treatment devices. TC011 59 Buyer's Guide Specifying for Maintenance This guide is intended to provide fire service personal with information about various options that are available for fire apparatus and will assist in making good judgment selections with your apparatus. TC047 147 Buyer's Guide Vehicle Camera Systems This guide is intended to provide fire service personnel with information about the various types of camera systems and recorders used on fire apparatus. TC061 101 Buyer's Guide Water Tanks This guide is intended to provide fire service personnel with information about the various types of mobile water and foam tanks, and the options that are available for fire apparatus. TC039 239 Buyer's Guide Multiplex Electrical Systems This guide is intended to provide fire service personnel with information about the various types of multiplex systems and vehicle data recorders used on fire apparatus. TC045 198 Buyer's Guide Pump Primers This guide is intended to provide fire service personnel with information surrounding various fire pump Priming Systems, control considerations and priming pump designs that are commonly used in fire apparatus today. As with any engineered system design, there are advantages and disadvantages to each configuration, design and manufacturer – not all are presented in this document. It is the responsibility of the purchaser to determine what best meets their requirements and to specify this information to prospective apparatus bidders, sellers, and manufacturers. TC070 25 Buyer's Guide HVAC This guide is intended to provide general information for fire service personnel on the topic of HVAC (Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning) systems in an emergency vehicle.

There are many types of HVAC systems available commercially and custom made for apparatus manufacturers. This guide will focus on systems with a main engine driven refrigerant compressor.
TC064 62 Buyer's Guide Light Towers This guide will describe many different things that you should consider before you choose the tower that will work best for your department. The different features and options discussed may not be available from every manufacturer. TC060 143 Buyer's Guide Hose Restraints This guide will look at various types of hose restraints and some advantages and disadvantages of each. TC041 113 Buyer's Guide Mobile Breathing Air Systems This guide will provide fire service personnel with information about the various types of Mobile Breathing Air Systems that are available for fire apparatus. TC053 110 Fire Service Statistics NFPA Fire Service Needs Assessment Overview This presentation provides an overview of the NFPA Third Fire Service Needs Assessment Survey Report. TC021 44 Research Fire Apparatus Duty Cycle Survey This report uses the results from fire chief surveys as well as actual fire apparatus engine data to estimate the average fire apparatus duty cycles in terms of road miles, engine hours, pump hours, and aerial hours. Results are subdivided by demographics and apparatus type. TC001 114 Research Fire Fighter Size and Weight Study This study provides measurements of fire fighters in bunker gear. Primarily used by apparatus designers, this information may also be useful to fire departments planning for facilities that must be designed around the smallest and the largest fire fighter shapes, sizes, and weights. TC002 57 FAMA Standards Engine Air Intake Ember Separator Test This test is intended to determine the effectiveness of a system for protecting diesel engine air filtration elements from catching of fire due to airborne embers. TC079 37 Fire Service Statistics NFPA Fire Service Needs Assessment This third Fire Service Needs Assessment Survey was conducted by NFPA in and follows two earlier surveys in and . Needs are identified by comparing what departments have with what existing consensus standards, government regulations, and other nationally recognized guidance documents say they need to have in order to be safe and effective in conducting their many responsibilities. TC020 60 Specification Tools Fire Apparatus Equipment Weight and Cube Calculator Use this spreadsheet to track the equipment that you plan to store on your fire apparatus. Estimated weights and volumes are provided for typical pieces of equipment so that you can calculate the total weight of your equipment and determine the total compartment volume needed to store it all. Provide this information to your apparatus manufacturer so that you will be sure to purchase a truck that will hold all your equipment. TC018 300 Buyer's Guide Rear Suspensions Vehicle suspension systems are an important factor in the ride quality, stability, and ongoing maintenance of an apparatus. When developing specifications for the rear suspension on a fire apparatus, consideration should be given to handling, ride quality, chassis/equipment protection, initial cost, capacity, and total cost of ownership. TC049 121 Buyer's Guide Water Pumps Water pumps types and capacities are described in this guide to help determine the right specifications for new apparatus. TC024 316

NFPA Fire Protection Tanks: Full Breakdown of NFPA 22 Rules

Fire protection is a critical component of safety planning for commercial, industrial, and residential properties. The increasing frequency and severity of fire-related events have brought renewed focus on adopting proven standards. This is where the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) becomes essential. Their suite of fire safety standards offers a consistent, code-based framework to ensure adequate protection against fire-related threats.

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Water tanks play a central role in many fire suppression systems. This is especially the case when the municipal water supply is unreliable or insufficient. NFPA 22 serves as the cornerstone standards for ensuring that these water tanks are properly installed and regularly maintained to function when needed most.

Our guide aims to provide a thorough yet accessible breakdown of NFPA 22 for water storage tanks. We’re helping building owners, facility managers, safety consultants, and insurers understand when and how compliance applies, and what it takes to meet these critical requirements.

What is the NFPA?

NFPA (National Fire Protection Association)
The NFPA (National Fire Protection Association) is a globally recognized nonprofit organization committed to reducing fire hazards. They achieve this through the development of consensus-based codes and standards. Established in , the NFPA has published over 300 codes that cover various aspects of fire safety. These include building construction, electrical systems, hazardous materials, and fire protection equipment.

When a property must meet a fire safety benchmark, it's often guided by a relevant NFPA code. Their standards are not just advisory. Rather, they’re widely adopted into local building codes, insurance requirements, and national safety laws. In addition to publishing standards, the NFPA also provides training, certifications, and technical support for fire safety professionals.

Simply put, the NFPA creates the gold standard in fire protection planning and execution.

What is NFPA 22?
NFPA 22 is now officially titled Standard for Water Tanks for Private Fire Protection. The code outlines the minimum requirements for the design, construction, installation, and maintenance of water tanks used in private fire protection systems. This includes tanks that support sprinkler systems, standpipes, and other water-based suppression systems.

As of the edition, NFPA 22 covers various types of tanks, including:

• Gravity tanks
• Suction tanks
• Pressure tanks
• Embankment-supported coated fabric tanks
• Fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP) tanks
• Bolted and welded steel tanks

The standard is comprehensive, covering aspects such as:

• Proper sizing and elevation to ensure gravity-fed flow
• Material durability under thermal, seismic, and chemical conditions
• Mandatory accessories (e.g., ladders, vents, confined space signage)
• Structural engineering requirements like roof load and anchoring specs

Compliance with NFPA 22 is not just about installation—it also ensures the tank remains operational during emergencies. Many authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) and insurance companies require NFPA 22-certified fire protection tanks as part of fire safety evaluations. Check out our guide to explore what fire protection tanks are and why you need one.

General Requirements of NFPA 22 for Fire Protection Water Tanks: Chapter 4 Highlights

The chapter outlines the general requirements to be met for a water tank to qualify under fire protection standards. These principles ensure consistency, safety, and functionality across various tank installations.

1. Capacity and Elevation (4.1)
   The required water tank size for fire protection and its elevation must be tailored to each property’s needs. Considerations include, hydraulic demand, pressure zones, and accessibility. While NFPA 22 does not prescribe fixed sizes, it requires calculations based on flow duration and required pressure.
   
   
2. Water Sources (4.2)
   Fire protection tanks must be supplied by a dependable and sustainable water source. If the municipal source fails to meet the demand in quality, quantity, or pressure, an alternative—typically an onsite tank—must be used. This ensures readiness during peak usage or supply failure.
   
   
3. Location of Tanks (4.3)
   Water storage tanks must be sited in a way that minimizes exposure to potential fire threats. NFPA 22 specifies clearances and placement criteria to safeguard both the tank and the protected structure. For instance, fire tanks should not be located next to potential ignition sources or vulnerable construction zones.
   
   
4. Tank Materials (4.4)
   Acceptable materials include steel, wood, concrete, fiberglass-reinforced plastic, and coated fabrics. Each material must conform to mechanical, chemical, and national strength standards outlined in NFPA 22.
   
   
5. Workmanship and Plans (4.5 – 4.6)All manufacturing and assembly must adhere to industry best practices. Contractors must provide stress sheets, detailed layout plans, and maintenance instructions to local authorities or the AHJ.
   
   
6. Contractor Responsibility and Testing (4.7 – 4.10)Upon installation, firefighting water tanks must be tested for watertightness and strength. The contractor is responsible for cleanup, inspection coordination, and ensuring compliance with NFPA 241 for site safety.
   
   
7. Other Provisions (4.11 – 4.16) This includes provisions for:Attachments (flagpoles, signage)
   

• Lightning protection per NFPA 780
• Structural load calculations (live, wind, seismic)
• Welding standards (per ASME and AWWA D100)
• Roofing and venting to prevent pressure-related failures
• Record-keeping of test reports and compliance certifications

Together, these guidelines form the fundamental compliance backbone for all fire protection water tanks governed by NFPA 22.

NFPA 22 Design, Installation, and Engineering Considerations

Beyond general requirements, NFPA 22 dives deep into engineering specifications that ensure the tank will withstand environmental, structural, and operational stressors. Load Requirements

According to NFPA 22 Section 4.12, fire protection water storage tanks must be designed to handle:

• Dead load (tank weight and fittings)
• Live load (maximum water capacity, even if overflowing)
• Wind and seismic loads (30 lb/ft² for vertical surfaces)
• Platform and ladder loads, ensuring OSHA compliance
• Combined stress limits, especially during events like earthquakes

Welding and Structural Integrity

All welding must be conducted in accordance with the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, AWWA D100, and NFPA 241. This ensures the joints and seams remain structurally sound during pressurization or environmental stress.

Roofing and Vents

All storage tanks for fire suppression are required to have roofs that can withstand:

• Installation and inspection weight
• Maintenance and cleaning operations

Additionally, NFPA 22 mandates venting systems above the max fill line, equipped with corrosion-resistant screens to prevent contamination.

Engineering Documentation

To comply with NFPA 22, fire protection tanks vendors must supply:

• Engineering stress sheets
• Installation guides
• Tank-specific maintenance plans
• Certifications for third-party inspections and approvals

These engineering elements reinforce the purpose of NFPA 22: not just to store water, but to ensure reliability during fire emergencies.

NFPA 25: What It Is and Why It Matters in Fire Protection

While NFPA 22 governs the initial installation and construction of fire water tanks, NFPA 25 ensures those systems remain operational over time. Officially titled Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems, NFPA 25 is essential for long-term reliability. Scope and Purpose NFPA 25 establishes the minimum requirements for periodic inspection, testing, and maintenance (ITM) of systems such as:

• Sprinkler systems
• Fire pumps
• Standpipes
• Private mains
• Water storage tanks

These systems, once installed under NFPA 22, are subject to routine evaluations as defined in NFPA 25.This ensures they remain functional and ready during a fire event.

Importance of Maintaining Fire Protection Water Tanks

Even the best-designed tank can fail without proper upkeep. Through structured protocols for monthly, quarterly, and annual inspections, NFPA 25 helps property owners detect:

• Corrosion and sediment accumulation
• Valve malfunctions
• Pressure issues
• Signs of physical wear or leaks

Failing to comply with NFPA 25 can result in system failure during emergencies and might void insurance coverage or local occupancy permits.

NFPA 22 vs. NFPA 25: Understanding the Differences

Although they are both published by the National Fire Protection Association, NFPA 22 and NFPA 25 serve distinct but complementary purposes.

NFPA 22 is proactive—ensuring that systems are correctly designed and installed from the outset. NFPA 25, on the other hand, is ongoing—ensuring those systems remain reliable and ready.

Compliance Triggers: When is NFPA 22 Required?

Not every property automatically falls under NFPA 22 mandates—but many common building scenarios do. Knowing when the standard becomes mandatory can help avoid violations, denied insurance claims, or costly retrofits.

NFPA 22 Compliance Triggers:

• New Construction: Most new commercial or industrial buildings must include a fire water storage tank if municipal water supply is insufficient. NFPA 22 ensures that the tank is designed and installed to code.
• Major Renovations: Upgrading a building’s fire protection system? A new or updated tank will likely need to meet NFPA 22 standards.
• Change in Use or Occupancy: Converting a warehouse into residential units or repurposing a facility may require fire protection upgrades, triggering NFPA 22 compliance.
• Insurance or AHJ Mandate: Many insurers or authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs) require NFPA 22-certified tanks for policy approval or occupancy permits.

Tank Types and Materials Allowed by NFPA 22

NFPA 22 permits a variety of materials and tank types, depending on environmental conditions, project requirements, and local code mandates. The edition of NFPA 22 outlines approved materials and their performance standards under Section 4.4 and subsequent chapters.

Approved Tank Materials:

• Steel: Most common due to its strength and durability. Must meet national mechanical and metallurgical standards. Our NFPA 22 approved steel fire protection tanks meet all the standards for mid-sized to bulk fire protections units.
• Concrete: Used for large-scale applications, often where seismic requirements are high.
• Wood: Less common but still approved, typically for certain gravity tanks in rural or historic settings.
• Fiberglass-Reinforced Plastic (FRP): Offers corrosion resistance and is lightweight, suitable for some commercial and industrial uses. We offer reliable underground and above ground fiberglass water tanks approved for fire suppression systems.
• Coated Fabrics: Used in embankment-supported suction tanks and temporary systems.

Types of Tanks Covered by NFPA 22:

If interested in learning more about the best water storage tanks for fire protection, we have you covered. Below, we break down the NFPA approved tank options:

• Gravity Tanks: Elevated to provide hydrostatic pressure.
• Suction Tanks: Ground-level tanks that feed fire pumps.
• Pressure Tanks: Sealed tanks pressurized with air to deliver water instantly upon demand.
• Bolted Steel Tanks: Factory-coated and assembled onsite.
• Embankment-Supported Tanks: Flexible bladder water tanks with protective berms.

Plastic Tanks for Fire Protection Systems:

Whereas plastic is not a featured material in NFPA’s approved list, many businesses and homeowners find this a cost-effective option for fire defense. Plastic water storage tanks for fire suppression offer an appealing and readily-available option for integrating into fire fighting systems. Whether acting as the main water storage source or a supplementary source of water, you can consider our plastic fire suppression readiness tanks in your fire planning strategy.

How to Evaluate Your Property’s Water Supply Needs

Determining whether you need a fire protection tank—and what size—is not just a matter of preference. It’s a compliance and safety decision driven by NFPA 22, local codes, and engineering assessments.

Step 1: Assess Municipal Water Supply

Start by checking if your municipal system can provide the:

• Required flow rate
• Minimum pressure
• Duration of supply during fire events

If the supply falls short in any of these areas, NFPA 22 typically mandates the addition of a supplemental fire protection tank.

Step 2: Define Tank Sizing Parameters

For more information, please visit Emergency Fire Water Tanks.

NFPA 22 Section 4.1 states that tank capacity and elevation must reflect actual fire demand. This includes:

• Building size and use
• Number and type of sprinklers
• Duration the system must sustain (usually 30–90 minutes)

Many vendors offer pre-engineered tanks ranging from 5,000 to 1,000,000 gallons, with custom options for unique site requirements.

Step 3: Consider Redundancy and Refill Time

Per NFPA 22 Section 4.2, the water source must be “adequate and dependable.” Even if a public water main exists, a backup tank may be required to meet the redundancy requirements for critical infrastructure, remote sites, or industrial zones. Evaluating your fire water needs using NFPA 22 guidelines ensures your system performs when seconds matter most.

Ensuring NFPA Compliance: Legal and Insurance Implications

Beyond fire safety, compliance with NFPA 22 and NFPA 25 has serious legal and financial consequences. Non-compliance can not only endanger lives but also lead to penalties, denied insurance claims, and loss of operational licenses.

Regulatory Oversight

• Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs) enforce fire code compliance during construction, renovation, and occupancy.
• Many municipalities adopt NFPA 22 and NFPA 25 needs into local codes, making them enforceable by law.
• During plan review, site inspections, or audits, failure to comply may result in stop-work orders or occupancy denial.

Insurance Requirements

• Insurers may require NFPA 22-certified tanks as a precondition for coverage, especially in areas with unreliable water supply.
• NFPA 25 compliance is often linked to maintaining premiums or proving due diligence in risk reduction.
• If a fire-related claim is filed and tank systems are found non-compliant, coverage may be reduced or denied.

Legal Liability

Failure to meet NFPA standards can expose property owners to lawsuits in the event of injury or loss. Codes like NFPA 25 establish a clear standard of care. That means, the code can be referenced in legal proceedings to determine negligence. In short, complying with NFPA 22 and NFPA 25 is not just smart—it’s essential for protecting your investment, operations, and legal standing.

Cost Factors and Vendor Selection for NFPA-Approved Water Tanks

When planning for fire protection infrastructure, understanding the cost variables of an NFPA 22-compliant tank is essential. These systems represent a significant investment, and the cost goes beyond the tank itself.

Key Cost Considerations:

• Tank Size & Capacity: Naturally, larger tanks cost more. Standard volumes range from 5,000 gallons to over 1 million gallons, with costs scaling accordingly.
• Material Type: Steel tanks are often more expensive than fiberglass-reinforced or coated fabric options. Each material brings different strengths and cost implications.
• Installation Complexity: Remote sites, seismic zones, or constrained urban spaces may require additional engineering, site prep, or seismic anchoring—affecting the final cost.
• Accessories: Vents, ladders, roof railings, heating systems, and overflow protection are all required by NFPA 22, and their inclusion impacts the total investment.
• Engineering & Permits: Structural engineering reports, drawings, and local code approvals are necessary to comply with NFPA 22 Sections 4.6 and 4.7, and they typically involve consulting fees.

Vendor Selection Tips:

Choosing the right vendor is as important as choosing your fire protection water storage tank. Look for suppliers who:

• Certify their tanks to NFPA 22 standards
• Provide turnkey installation, including permitting support and on-site testing
• Offer maintenance plans that align with NFPA 25
• Include warranties of at least one year, or longer for residential and commercial applications

A reputable vendor will also supply test reports, certification documents, and layout plans to satisfy both AHJs and insurers.

Common Misconceptions on NFPA Requirements for Fire Protection Tanks

Despite being well-documented, NFPA 22 and NFPA 25 are often misunderstood. Let’s address some of the most common misconceptions: “

Any water tank can be used for fire protection”

False. Only tanks that meet the design, material, and installation guidelines of NFPA 22 are acceptable. Using a non-compliant tank can result in system failure or denied insurance claims.

“NFPA inspections are a one-time thing.”

Wrong. While NFPA 22 governs installation, NFPA 25 mandates ongoing monthly, quarterly, and annual inspections. These are not optional—they are essential.

“Once the tank is installed, we’re compliant forever.”

Not quite. Compliance is ongoing. If an inspector finds corrosion, leaks, or other issues, your tank can be deemed non-compliant under NFPA 25, even if it was properly installed.

“NFPA standards are suggestions, not requirements.”

This is misleading. While the NFPA doesn’t enforce the codes directly, many jurisdictions adopt NFPA standards into law, making them legally binding. Insurers also treat them as mandatory. Clearing up these misconceptions is key to helping property managers and owners take proactive steps toward true NFPA compliance.

How to Maintain NFPA Compliance Long-Term

Long-term adherence to NFPA regulations for fire prevention isn’t hard—but it requires a strategic and consistent approach.

Step 1: Set an Inspection Calendar

Using the schedule outlined in NFPA 25, create a calendar that covers:

1. Monthly visual checks

2. Quarterly valve testing

3. Annual tank inspections

4. Five-year internal tank evaluations

Automate reminders and assign responsibilities internally or to a contracted provider.

Step 2: Maintain Records

Keep all inspection logs, test results, and maintenance records easily accessible. These may be requested by:

• Insurance adjusters
• Local fire marshals
• AHJs

Failure to produce documentation may result in fines or non-compliance citations.

Step 3: Partner With Qualified Inspectors

Work with contractors certified in NFPA 25 inspections. They should:

• Know local codes
• Understand NFPA-specific criteria
• Provide written reports and deficiency notices

Step 4: Plan for Repairs and Replacements

Budget for periodic upgrades or repairs. Liners, ladders, heating elements, and even full tank replacements may be required over time. Using the original NFPA 22 design documentation, plan proactive maintenance instead of waiting for failure. Incorporating these steps ensures you remain in full compliance with NFPA, avoid legal or insurance issues, and—most importantly—protect lives and property.

Be Proactive in Your Fire Defense Strategy

Peace of mind starts with compliance. Whether you're designing a new system or maintaining an existing one, investing in NFPA-certified tanks and inspection programs is a proactive step toward real protection. We also encourage the adoption of approved firefighting water pumps to ensure water storage meets delivery when most needed.

Ready to take the next step? Trust Tank Depot

Contact a certified NFPA 22 fire protection water tank provider today to request a custom quote or speak with a fire protection expert about your specific needs. Your people, your property, and your peace of mind are worth it.

Are you interested in learning more about agricultural water storage tanks? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

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