Streamlining Panel Tank Inspections with the Latest Underwater Drone Technology per AWWA and NFPA Recommendations

Many commercial and industrial establishments rely heavily on water storage and distribution systems to support their daily operations. While panel tanks are integral components of these systems, traditional inspection methods for them often present challenges, involving significant time and safety risks due to confined spaces and hazardous conditions.

Fortunately, advancements in technology have revolutionized inspection processes, with underwater ROV drone technology emerging as a notable innovation. This progress enables water companies to bolster the integrity of their storage tanks and guarantee the provision of high-quality drinking water through safer, more efficient, and cost-effective inspections.

How Underwater Drone Technology is Streamlining Panel Tank Inspections?

Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is paramount for the well-being of any community, with water storage tanks playing a vital role in meeting this fundamental requirement. However, due to frequent use and exposure to environmental elements, these tanks are prone to deterioration over time, leading to issues such as corrosion, fractures, leaks, compromised water quality, and eventual malfunction.

To address these challenges, regulatory bodies like the AWWA and NFPA advocate for regular inspections of water storage tanks to maintain their optimal condition. These inspections typically involve visually examining tank components, a process that can be labor-intensive, expensive, and potentially hazardous for inspectors, especially if they are required to enter the tanks themselves.

The latest advancement in underwater drone technology provides a solution to these challenges by enabling more efficient inspections of FRP panel tanks. By employing underwater drones, inspectors can remotely access tanks and capture high-resolution images of tank components without the need for physical entry. This technology streamlines the inspection process and allows inspectors to swiftly and effectively identify and address faults, thereby preventing more severe issues.

AWWA and NFPA-Approved Methods for Streamlining Panel Tank Inspections

AWWA and NFPA have established guidelines and recommendations for the inspection of water storage tanks. These guidelines outline criteria and best practices for maintaining and inspecting water storage tanks to ensure their safe and efficient operation.

Here are some key recommendations from AWWA standards and NFPA for optimizing panel tank inspections:

1. Embrace Technology: AWWA and NFPA advocate for the adoption of technology, such as underwater drones, to capture detailed images of tank components without human entry. This technological approach has the potential to significantly reduce both time and costs associated with current inspection methods.
2. Prioritize Safety: Both AWWA and NFPA 25 guidelines underscore the importance of implementing safety measures during tank inspections. This includes ensuring proper ventilation, verifying the functionality of safety equipment, and restricting inspection duties to qualified personnel only.
3. Prompt Repairs and Maintenance: AWWA and NFPA stress the need to promptly address any issues identified during inspections to prevent further deterioration or damage. Regular maintenance tasks like cleaning and painting are also highlighted as essential for preserving the tanks’ condition.

The Advantages of Following AWWA and NFPA Recommendations for Panel Tank Inspections

Following AWWA and NFPA standards to streamline panel tank inspections is crucial for maintaining the safety and efficiency of water storage tanks. By adhering to these guidelines, water utilities can minimize risks to public health and safety while extending the lifespan of their tanks. This entails leveraging technology, enforcing safety protocols, documenting inspections thoroughly, and promptly conducting any required repairs and maintenance.

Here are some benefits of adhering to AWWA and NFPA requirements for panel tank inspections:

1. Improved safety: Regular inspections help identify potential hazards, making sure the panel tank is safe for use and reducing the risk of accidents.
2. Prolonged lifespan: Following recommended inspection and maintenance protocols can extend the panel tank’s lifespan, potentially saving costs associated with replacement.
3. Regulatory compliance: Adhering to AWWA testing standards and NFPA regulations ensures the panel tank meets industry benchmarks and regulatory requirements, reducing the risk of penalties and legal issues.
4. Preserved water quality: Properly maintained panel tanks help maintain the quality of stored water, which is crucial for public health and safety.
5. Enhanced efficiency: Regular inspections identify areas for improvement, such as reducing leaks or optimizing water flow, leading to increased efficiency of the FRP panel water tank.

Need a Panel Tank Inspection? We Can Help You Find an AWWA or NFPA Certified Company!

AWWA and NFPA emphasize the importance of regular water tank inspections, underscoring the need for water tank service providers to stay updated on the latest technology to offer exceptional service to their clients.

At Tanks Liners by American Tanks, our team of experts is ready to meet all your water tank service needs. Remember, prioritizing regular inspections and maintenance is crucial for ensuring the safety and reliability of your water storage system. Let’s work together to uphold the safety and welfare of our communities.

Call Tanks Liners by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167

Or email at info@americantankliners.com