Numerous commercial and industrial entities depend on water storage and distribution systems for daily functions. Undoubtedly, panel tanks play a vital role in these systems, yet traditional inspection methods for them can pose challenges, consuming time and risking safety due to confined spaces and hazardous conditions.
Thankfully, technological progress has facilitated the streamlining of inspection processes, with underwater ROV drone technology emerging as a notable innovation. This advancement allows water companies to enhance the integrity of their storage tanks and ensure the delivery of high-quality drinking water through safer, more efficient, and cost-effective inspections.
The Impact of Streamlining Panel Tank Inspections with Underwater Drone Technology
Ensuring access to clean and safe drinking water is vital for the well-being of any community, with water storage tanks serving as crucial components in fulfilling this essential need. However, due to frequent usage and exposure to environmental factors, these tanks are susceptible to deterioration over time, leading to issues such as corrosion, fractures, leaks, diminished water quality, and eventual tank malfunction.
To tackle these challenges, regulatory bodies like the AWWA and NFPA advocate for regular inspections of water storage tanks to uphold their optimal condition. These inspections typically involve visually examining tank components, a process that can be laborious, costly, and potentially hazardous for inspectors, particularly if they need to enter the tanks themselves.
The latest advancement in underwater drone technology offers a solution to these challenges by facilitating more efficient inspections of FRP panel tanks. Utilizing 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 enables inspectors to swiftly and effectively identify and address faults, thereby averting more severe issues.
List of AWWA and NFPA Recommendations for Streamlining Panel Tank Inspections
AWWA and NFPA have set forth guidelines and suggestions for inspecting water storage tanks. These recommendations define criteria and optimal approaches for maintaining and inspecting water storage tanks to guarantee their safe and effective operation.
Below are some key recommendations provided by AWWA standards and NFPA to streamline panel tank inspections:
- Utilization of technology: Both AWWA and NFPA recommend employing technology, such as underwater drones, to capture high-resolution images of tank components without the need for human entry. This approach has the potential to substantially decrease the time and costs associated with current inspection methods.
- Safety measures: Both AWWA and NFPA 25 guidelines for fire protection systems recommend implementing safety precautions during tank inspections. These precautions entail ensuring that tanks are adequately ventilated, that all safety equipment is intact and operational, and that only qualified personnel are authorized to conduct inspections.
- Repairs and maintenance: Both AWWA and NFPA emphasize the importance of promptly addressing any issues identified during inspections to prevent further deterioration or damage. To uphold the tanks’ condition, regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning and painting should be carried out.

Advantages of Adhering to AWWA and NFPA Recommendations For Panel Tank Inspections
Adhering to AWWA and NFPA standards to streamline panel tank inspections can help ensure the safety and efficiency of water storage tanks. Water utilities can mitigate potential risks to public health and safety and prolong the lifespan of their tanks by leveraging technology, implementing safety protocols, documenting inspections, and carrying out necessary repairs and maintenance.
The following are some of the advantages of adhering to AWWA and NFPA requirements for panel tank inspections:
- Enhanced safety: Routine inspections can help identify potential hazards and mitigate accidents, guaranteeing that the panel tank is suitable for use.
- Extended longevity: Following the recommended inspection and maintenance protocols can extend the panel tank’s lifespan, potentially reducing costs associated with replacement.
- Regulatory compliance: Conforming to AWWA testing standards and NFPA regulations ensures that the panel tank meets industry benchmarks and regulatory requirements, mitigating the risk of penalties and legal issues.
- Maintains good water quality: A properly kept panel tank can help to assure the quality of the stored water, which is critical for public health and safety.
- Enhanced effectiveness: Regular inspections aid in pinpointing areas where enhancements can be implemented to improve the efficiency of the FRP panel water tank, such as reducing leaks or optimizing water flow.
Are you looking for an AWWA or NFPA certified panel tank inspection company?
With AWWA and NFPA advocating for frequent water tank inspections, it’s vital for water tank service providers to remain abreast of the latest technology to deliver top-tier service to their clientele.
At Panel Tanks Vegas by American Tanks, our team of professionals is poised to assist you with all your water tank service requirements. Remember, prioritizing regular inspections and maintenance is essential to safeguarding the safety and dependability of your water storage system. Let’s collaborate to uphold the safety and well-being of our communities.
Call Panel Tanks Vegas by American Tanks at +1 800 656 0167
Or email at info@paneltanks.vegas





