Top Standards to Consider When Choosing a Water Tank Manufacturer

And just when you think you have found the perfect water storage tank, pause and think: Have you really ticked all the boxes to ensure clean and safe water storage?

We often assume that choosing a high-quality material is enough when selecting a water tank. However, we rarely delve into the essential regulations and compliance standards that water tank manufacturers must adhere to.

Even a good-looking tank can fall short on safety standards; that's why selecting the right water tank manufacturer is crucial. It’s a long-term investment in reliability, safety, and peace of mind. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to choose a manufacturer that meets all relevant regulations and delivers on quality and support.

Understanding Water Storage Regulations

Before diving into the selection process, it's essential to understand the regulatory framework governing water tanks. These standards ensure that the tank's materials, construction, and usage do not pose any threat to human health or the environment.

Regulations vary by geography, application, and tank type. For instance, drinking water storage tanks in a commercial setting will have different requirements than those used for industrial chemicals or residential purposes.

Here are some of the most common and critical regulations and certifications to look for:

・NSF/ANSI 61 Certification

This certification is critical for ensuring that a water storage tank is safe for potable water use. Issued by NSF International, NSF/ANSI 61 specifically tests and validates the materials used in tank construction, such as linings, coatings, gaskets, adhesives, and sealants.  

It ensures they do not leach harmful contaminants into the water. The certification process includes toxicological evaluation, product formulation review, and periodic audits. This certification is also available in India now!

Why it matters:

Even a well-built tank can compromise water quality if its internal coatings or joints release harmful chemicals over time. This certification assures public health and safety, especially for drinking water applications.

Example:

A municipality installing an underground tank for storing drinking water would typically require NSF/ANSI 61 compliance as a non-negotiable prerequisite to meet public health standards.

・Local Building Codes

Local and regional building codes dictate how tanks must be designed, installed, and maintained to ensure structural safety and integration with the built environment. 

These codes often cover aspects such as foundation requirements, proper anchoring in seismic zones, adequate drainage and overflow systems, and load-bearing capacity and structural integrity

Why it matters:

Even the best tank can pose risks if installed incorrectly or in the wrong location. Local codes ensure safety in diverse conditions, whether it’s a multi-story rooftop, an industrial yard, or a subterranean setup.

Example:

In earthquake-prone zones like California or Japan, tanks must be seismically rated, securely anchored, and compliant with standards like IS 1893 or IBC (International Building Code) to minimize risk during seismic events.

・ISO 9001 Certification

While not specific to tanks, ISO 9001 is a globally recognized standard that certifies the quality management system (QMS) of a water tank manufacturer. 

It ensures that the manufacturing process is well-documented, controlled, and continuously improved. It focuses on areas like customer satisfaction, process consistency, documentation and audits, and product quality tracking

Why it matters:

For clients ordering large batches of water tanks, such as for fire suppression systems, housing societies, or infrastructure projects, ISO 9001 ensures that every unit is made to consistent quality standards, reducing the risk of defects and increasing product lifespan.

Example:

A commercial developer setting up a residential complex across multiple locations can confidently place a bulk order with an ISO 9001-certified manufacturer, knowing that each tank will meet the same level of performance and durability.

・Environmental Standards

Governments around the world, including in India, enforce environmental laws that regulate how tanks must handle overflow, leakage, spillage, and effluent discharge. 

These regulations are especially stringent in industries dealing with hazardous materials, wastewater, or chemical byproducts.

Why it matters:

A single tank leak in an industrial unit could contaminate soil, rivers, or nearby communities, leading to heavy fines, shutdowns, or environmental damage. 

Compliance ensures that tanks are equipped with secondary containment systems, leak-proof joints, and emergency overflow management features.

Example:

A chemical processing facility storing treated effluent water must install tanks that meet environmental discharge standards and are regularly inspected for leaks or corrosion. Failure to comply can result in legal action and pollution penalties.

Consequences of Ignoring Water Tank Regulations

Now, as we have understood about the certifications and regulations a water tank manufacturer should follow, let’s have a look at the consequences of ignoring these water tank regulations. Here's what could happen:

1. Health and Safety Risks

The first and foremost consequence could be compromising the health and safety of the public. Contaminated water supply can lead to bacteria, algae, and chemical contamination, which can cause waterborne diseases. Places such as hospitals, food industries, or residential societies where clean and safe water is crucial can be affected severely. 

2. Legal Penalties

Regulatory bodies (like BIS in India or EPA in the US) may impose financial penalties. Other than legal penalties, non-compliance with these regulations can also lead to permanent shutdown orders or heavy lawsuits. 

3. Operational Issues

Poor compliance by water tank manufacturers can also cause water shortages due to damaged or leaking tanks. 

Almost every industry depends upon water to run its daily operations, a water shortage can completely disrupt the efficiency of the company. These frequent breakdowns and maintenance increase the overall acquisition cost of the tank. 

4. Reputational Damage

For businesses (especially in healthcare, hospitality, or food & beverage), a non-compliant tank can lead to negative press, loss of customer trust, and damage to brand image. Reputational damage to a brand can have long long-lasting impact, it also makes it harder for the brand to reopen its services and gain the lost trust of people. 

5. Insurance Rejection

If an incident happens and it's found that the water tank was non-compliant, insurance companies may refuse claims.

This could leave businesses or property owners to bear the full cost of damages.
Maintaining compliance not only protects people but also ensures your insurance remains valid and effective.

6. Environmental Harm

Last but not least, non-compliance by the water tank manufacturers can potentially harm the environment. It can cause soil erosion by persistent leaks, unnecessary water wastage, especially in areas facing scarcity, and not to forget pollution of surrounding land and water bodies due to spillage or contamination.

Key Factors to Consider in a Water Tank Manufacturer

Once you understand the regulations, the next step is identifying a manufacturer that aligns with them. Here are the key aspects to evaluate:

1. Certifications & Compliance

Ensure the manufacturer provides up-to-date certifications relevant to your region and application. Don't hesitate to ask for documentation or audit reports.

If a manufacturer is reluctant to share compliance documents or insists that “certifications aren’t necessary,” it's best to walk away. Always check their website and brochures; trusted water tank manufacturers often highlight their certifications prominently.

2. Customization & Sizing Options

Every project is unique; space constraints, volume requirements, and installation environments vary widely.

A reliable water tank manufacturer should offer custom dimensions and fittings, provide panel tanks or modular designs for space efficiency, and suggest solutions for underground or elevated installations

3. Track Record, Case Studies & Reviews

The market is filled with new entrants, but when it comes to water storage, experience matters.

Always look for case studies in your industry, reviews from similar clients, testimonials or success stories, and past projects that meet regulatory norms. Always do a background check before selecting any water tank manufacturer. 

A manufacturer with experience supplying tanks to government water projects or hospitals will likely have experience navigating tough compliance demands.

4. After-Sales Support & Documentation

A water tank isn’t a “set and forget” asset. You’ll need ongoing support, especially if regulations evolve.

Reliable water tank manufacturers provide installation guides and manuals, warranty, maintenance schedules, and technical support!

Compliance Checklist for Buyers

To streamline your decision-making, here’s a practical checklist to follow:

Why Choose Beltecno as Your Trusted Water Tank Manufacturer?

Beltecno India understands the value of you as a customer and your brand, and that’s why we've got you all covered!

We ensure compliance with every regulation that can help us provide you with the best stainless steel water tanks. Don’t believe us?

Check out our certificates and awards! 

Still wondering how we can assist your industry? Read about Beltecno’s client testimonials.

Conclusion

In this blog, we have read about some of the water tank compliance that is crucial not only for the people but for the businesses.

Choosing a compliant water tank manufacturer isn’t just about getting the best price or fastest delivery. It’s about protecting your investment, ensuring public safety, and avoiding regulatory penalties.

So, take your time, do your homework, and work with a water tank manufacturer who understands not only tanks but also the rules and responsibilities that come with them.

Don’t hesitate, Contact Us Today and get your tailor-made stainless steel tanks!