Standards and Regulations: Australian Standards for manufacturing may seem like legally enforceable laws, but they are actually guidelines established by an organization called Standards Australia. Unless the product is specifically regulated by the government, adherence to these standards is typically voluntary.
To ensure your water tank complies with Australian standards and regulations, it’s essential to stay informed and up-to-date. It’s not just about meeting requirements; it’s about safeguarding the quality of your water, protecting the environment, and preventing expensive legal complications.
So, if you’re looking for a high-quality water tank, make sure the manufacturer adheres to any stated Australian Standard. The most straightforward method is to ensure that they have been independently certified by an approved certification body (the manufacturer should be able to produce a certificate of conformance).How Important is Complying with Australian Water Tank Standards?
1. Public Health and Safety. Complying with Australian water tank standards ensures the water you collect and use is safe for consumption and domestic purposes. This is important for maintaining the health and safety of your household or business. This is also especially critical for tanks used in commercial or industrial applications where a failure could have severe consequences. 2. Environmental Responsibility. It is properly designed and well maintained to help conserve water and reduce the strain on municipal water supplies. This plays an important role in Australia’s efforts to combat drought and preserve precious water resources. This protects local ecosystems and water sources as well. 3. Legal Compliance. Failure to fulfill Australian water tank standards will lead to serious legal repercussions, fines, and even the need to dismantle or replace non-compliant tanks. Non-compliance can also lead to disputes and litigation, which can be costly and time-consuming. 4. Future-Proofing. Adhering to Australian standards ensures that your water tank is ready for future challenges, such as changes in regulations or increased environmental awareness. It helps future-proof your water storage system. 5. Property Value and Insurance. Property values can be significantly impacted by the presence of a compliant water tank system. Moreover, many insurance companies require compliance for coverage, making it a practical necessity for homeowners.
What are the Consequences of Non-Compliance?
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- Health Risks. Non-compliance will lead to water contamination and pose health risks to those who consume or use the water.
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- Financial Penalties. Authorities may impose a substantial financial burden for non-compliance with water tank regulations.
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- Insurance Implications. Homeowners and businesses might find themselves facing insurance issues if their water tanks are not compliant. Some policies may not cover damage or losses related to non-compliant systems.
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- Environmental Impact. Improperly designed or maintained water tanks can contribute to water wastage and environmental harm, impacting local ecosystems.
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- Property Value. Non-compliant water tanks can decrease the resale value of a property. Prospective buyers often prioritize homes with compliant water systems to avoid future headaches.
How to Choose the Right Water Tank?
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- Polyethylene (Poly) Tanks. These are a popular choice due to their durability and resistance to corrosion. They are well-suited for most Australian regions and come in various sizes.
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- Steel Tanks. Steel tanks are robust and suitable for areas prone to bushfires, but they require regular maintenance to prevent corrosion.
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- Concrete Tanks. These tanks are suitable for underground installations and are often chosen for their longevity and capacity.
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- Bladder Tanks. Ideal for limited space, bladder tanks are flexible and can be installed in crawl spaces or under decks.
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- Fiberglass Tanks. These tanks are corrosion-resistant and suitable for coastal areas with salt-laden air.
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- Round vs. Slimline Tanks. Consider the available space on your property. Slimline tanks are designed to fit into narrow spaces, while round tanks offer larger capacities.
These Standards Apply to the Quality of Your Water Tank:
The standard in question addresses the manufacturing of plastic materials and colorants intended for food contact applications, specifying the required procedures for producing plastic items used with food. Adhering to this standard ensures that your tank is classified as food-grade and free from harmful plastic contaminants. It also applies to items in contact with drinking water, such as pipes and fittings, and outlines specific testing methods to assess their effect on water quality. This standard defines the criteria for the design and production of polyethylene storage tanks, emphasizing the importance of seamless, one-piece tanks manufactured through rotational molding. These tanks should not be buried, and they should be vertically installed, capable of safely holding water, liquids used in food and beverage production, and various chemical solutions at atmospheric pressure. This standard serves as a benchmark for all high-quality polyethylene tank manufacturers to meet. Furthermore, the standard establishes requirements for quality management systems that are applicable to organizations of any size, type, industry, or product. Its primary focus is on ensuring the effectiveness of the quality management system in meeting customer requirements and demonstrating that the necessary processes are consistently in place to fulfill these requirements over time. While Australian Standards, such as AS Standards, are not legally binding obligations for product manufacturers, they are voluntarily adopted by companies aiming to produce top-notch products, like poly water tanks, and are created by Standards Australia, a non-profit and non-governmental organization dedicated to providing manufacturers with best practice guidelines.
