AS 1851-2012 Fire Tank Inspections for Compliance & Safety
Meeting Every Fire Tank Requirement for Your Peace of Mind
When it comes to fire protection, there is no room for compromise. AS 1851-2012 is the primary Australian Standard that dictates the routine servicing of fire protection systems. It ensures that your water storage is not just a container but also a reliable life-saving asset ready to perform in an emergency.
At NSW Water Tanks, we specialise in comprehensive fire tank inspection services. We help commercial property owners, body corporates, and industrial facility managers navigate the complex fire tank requirements necessary to remain compliant, insured, and protected. From the initial fire tank installation phase through to 10-year structural overhauls, our team ensures your system meets all AS 1851 standards.
Why AS 1851-2012 Compliance is Essential
Adhering to the AS 1851-2012 standard is more than just checking a box. It is a rigorous framework designed to prevent system failure when it matters most. A non-compliant tank can lead to insurance claim denials, heavy legal penalties, and, most importantly, a failure to provide adequate water during a fire event.
By maintaining strict compliance, you ensure:
- Structural integrity through identifying corrosion or wall thinning before a catastrophic leak occurs.
- Operational readiness is guaranteed by ensuring that valves, vortex inhibitors, and suction points are unobstructed.
- Keeping your Annual Fire Safety Statement (AFSS) valid and up to date.
Key Benefits of ROV Inspection Services
Insurance Compliance
Meet the mandatory requirements set by insurers and local authorities.
Early Detection
Identify minor liner tears or hardware fatigue during routine tank inspections to avoid emergency repair costs.
Detailed Reporting
Receive digital logs and certificates of service that serve as legal proof of maintenance.
Extended Asset Life
Proactive maintenance according to AS 1851 standards can add decades to the lifespan of your steel or concrete tank.
How It Works: The AS 1851-2012 Service Schedule
The standard mandates specific intervals for testing and maintenance. Our experts handle the heavy lifting across all required frequencies:
1. Monthly & Quarterly Checks:
Visual surveys of water levels, tank surrounds, and accessibility.
2. Annual Inspections:
A comprehensive external review of the tank’s structure, pipework, and signage.
3. 5-Yearly & 10-Yearly Surveys:
These involve more intensive tank inspections, often utilising ROV technology to assess internal liners, structural trusses, and sediment levels without needing to drain the tank.
4. Documentation:
Upon completion, we provide a full report detailing any non-conformances and the corrective actions required to regain status under AS 1851-2012.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if my tank fails an AS 1851-2012 inspection?
If we identify a non-conformance, we provide a prioritised list of water tank repairs. Once the repairs are completed, the tank can be re-certified as compliant.
Do I need to drain the tank for a 5-yearly fire tank inspection?
Not necessarily. Using our advanced ROV (Remote Operated Vehicle) technology, we can often perform the internal structural checks required by the standard while the tank remains full, saving you thousands in water costs.
Does this standard apply to residential rainwater tanks?
While AS1851-2012 specifically targets fire protection systems (usually in commercial or high-hazard rural settings), following similar maintenance principles is highly recommended for any large-scale water asset.
Secure Your Compliance Today
Ensure your site meets all fire tank requirements with the experts in NSW. Whether you need a routine annual check or a complex 10-year structural survey, we are here to help.
Investing in your future
Pioneer, has been designing and manufacturing rural water tanks for over 30 years, and we’re so confident in their durability that all tanks come with an exclusive Pioneer 20/20 warranty.
That means a 20-year conditional structural warranty, in addition to a 20-year conditional warranty gainst water leakage (only applicable for tank models GT10—GT280.)
With NSW Water Tanks as part of Pioneer’s Dealer Direct® Network, you’ll benefit from the expertise and personalised service of a local family business with nationwide support.