AS1851 Tank Inspection Perth – Complete Guide for Compliance & Safety

If your property relies on fire water storage tanks, staying compliant with AS1851 is not just best practice — it is a mandatory requirement for fire protection systems across Australia. For businesses in Perth, regular AS1851 tank inspections ensure that fire tanks, pumps, and related components remain fully operational during an emergency.

This guide explains everything you need to know about AS1851 tank inspection in Perth, including requirements, processes, frequency, and how a professional service provider like SafetyTech (https://www.safetytech.net.au/) can help you meet compliance standards.

What Is AS1851?

AS1851 is the Australian Standard governing the routine service of fire protection systems and equipment.
It covers inspection, maintenance, and testing of:

Fire water tanks
Fire pumps
Fire hydrant systems
Sprinkler systems
Fire detection & alarm systems
Emergency lighting

For businesses in Perth, following AS1851 is essential for:

Legal compliance
Insurance validity
Workplace safety
Reducing fire risk

What Is AS1851 Tank Inspection?

An AS1851 tank inspection ensures that your fire water storage tank is operating correctly and is capable of supplying adequate water pressure during a fire event.

These inspections evaluate:

Structural integrity
Water level & water quality
Internal corrosion
Leaks & cracks
Tank liners & coatings
Valves, inlets, and outlets
Float switches & sensors
Debris, sludge, and biofilm

A compliant tank directly affects the performance of your fire pumps and hydrant systems.

Why AS1851 Tank Inspections Matter in Perth

Perth commercial and industrial sites depend heavily on fire water tanks, especially:

Warehouses
Manufacturing facilities
Mining operations
Agricultural sites
High-risk industries
Large commercial buildings

A malfunctioning tank can cause:

Low water flow
Pump failure
Sprinkler malfunction
Insurance claim rejection
Major safety hazards

Regular AS1851 inspections prevent these issues.

Frequency of AS1851 Tank Inspections

AS1851 requires scheduled inspections at different intervals:

Monthly

Check water level
Check for leaks
Inspect valves for correct operation

Quarterly

Check visible structural condition
Test pumps drawing from the tank

Six-Monthly

Sample water for quality
Inspect sediment levels

Yearly

Full external inspection
Test tank components
Check internal condition (where accessible)

5-Yearly Inspection

The most detailed inspection, including:

Full internal tank inspection
Tank drain & cleaning
Corrosion assessment
Liner integrity check
Structural testing

This 5-year inspection is crucial for long-term compliance.

What Happens During an AS1851 Tank Inspection?

A certified Perth technician will carry out:

1. Visual Assessment

Checking:

Tank body
Roof, access ladders, hatches
Pipework and valves
Rust, cracks, damage

2. Internal Inspection (if required)

Using:

Entry by trained personnel
ROV (Remote Operated Vehicle) for underwater inspection
Cameras to inspect without draining

3. Water Testing

Ensuring water is free from:

Sediment
Algae
Contaminants
Corrosion-causing particles

4. Pump & Flow Testing

Ensures pumps receive correct water volume and pressure.

5. Wall Thickness Testing

This checks for corrosion and structural weakness.

6. Reporting & Compliance Documentation

You will receive:

Full AS1851 inspection report
Photo evidence
Repair recommendations (if required)
Compliance certificate

Common Issues Found During Tank Inspections

AS1851 tank inspections often identify problems such as:

Corrosion on tank walls
Damaged liners or coatings
Sedimentation buildup
Leaking seals
Broken level sensors
Inlet/outlet obstruction
Poor water quality

Detecting these early prevents expensive repairs and potential fire-system failure.

AS1851 Tank Inspection for Insurance & Legal Compliance

Insurance companies and safety regulators often require proof of:

Annual inspections
5-year internal tank assessment
Routine maintenance logs

Failure to comply may lead to:

Fines
Legal non-compliance
Rejected insurance claims
Shutdown orders in high-risk industries

Why Choose SafetyTech for AS1851 Tank Inspections in Perth

Your client’s company SafetyTech (https://www.safetytech.net.au/) provides complete fire tank inspection services according to AS1851, including:

Routine scheduled inspections
Internal ROV tank inspections
Full 5-year compliance assessments
Pump and hydrant system testing
Tank cleaning & desludging
Detailed reporting and asset registers

Their certified technicians ensure your fire tanks remain reliable, safe, and compliant.

Final Thoughts

Regular AS1851 tank inspection in Perth is essential for every commercial, industrial, or high-risk facility.
It ensures your fire systems function correctly, keeps your building compliant, and protects lives and property.