Water plays a role in healthcare facilities like hospitals as it serves functions such as patient treatment and safety measures like sanitation and fire prevention measures. Water storage systems are crucial for hospitals to ensure operations and deliver secure and dependable care services. This manual will delve into the significance of water storage for hospitals and discuss the kinds of underground tanks available, their advantages, installation requirements, maintenance protocols, and adherence to regulatory standards.
The significance of storing water for hospitals
Hospitals require flexible and affordable water storage solutions. Because of their round-the-clock operations and essential services, underground water storage is a choice for several reasons.
Space Management
Hospitals in cities often struggle with space availability, and underground water storage tanks can help maximize the surface area for patient care facilities and administrative buildings by utilizing space efficiently.
Protect Water from Contamination
Underground tanks are more resistant to contamination by elements like debris and sunlight than above-ground storage tanks. This helps maintain the cleanliness and safety of the water stored for hospital operations.
Regulate temperatures
Storing water aids in regulating temperature levels to minimize bacterial proliferation and maintain water safety for critical medical uses like surgical procedures.
Emergency Preparedness
During a disaster or emergency, like floods or power outages, hospitals need a water source to function smoothly and provide care to patients in need without interruptions in service availability.
Fire Protection
Hospitals are required to have fire safety measures in place to safeguard lives and property, such as fire suppression systems and an underground water storage tank.
Varieties of Below-Ground Water Tanks
There are different types of storage tanks, but underground tanks are preferred because they do not occupy space above the ground, which helps economize space. Additionally, they are durable and protected against severe weather. Each underground storage tank has distinct characteristics and advantages catering to different purposes.
Fiberglass Tanks
Underground Fiberglass tanks are light in weight and resistant to corrosion, making them a breeze to set up underground! They’re perfect for storing water as they can endure weather conditions and are less likely to leak than other types of tanks. People often use these tanks for storing drinking water. You can even tailor them to fit their requirements.
Steel Tanks
Tanks made of steel materials like carbon or stainless steel are known for their strength and durability over time. They are commonly used for storing large amounts of water and can be relied upon for their long-lasting performance. This type of tank is ideal for storing drinkable water due to its sturdy construction.
Poly tanks
Polyethylene tanks are constructed from high-density polyethylene (HDPE), which is prized for its durability against corrosion and UV degradation. They are lightweight and simple to set up, making them a popular option for storing water. These tanks are commonly utilized for purposes such as irrigation or fire protection where potable water is not required.
Advantages of Storing Water Underground for Medical Facilities
Cost Effectiveness
Considering cost-effectiveness is crucial when deciding between water storage and above-ground alternatives since while the upfront cost of tanks might be higher initially than above-ground options, in the long run, the advantages often surpass the expenses since underground tanks are more durable and can diminish the necessity for extra surface-level structures.
Reduced Clutter and Improved Curb Appeal
Underground water storage reduces clutter by reducing the number of non-patient-related supports and removing them from view. Hospitals can use the space for walkways, garden paths, and reflection pools.
Long Life and Durable
Underground tanks are usually made of materials that can withstand corrosion and environmental wear and tear better than above-ground tanks. This means they last longer and require less maintenance over time.
Enviro-friendly
Hospitals can be environmentally friendly by using water storage solutions to reduce their impact on the environment and prevent contamination risks in the vicinity through effective stormwater management systems.
Essential Factors to Consider When Installing
Several essential factors need to be considered when preparing to implement water storage systems in hospitals to ensure an effective setup.
Site Assessment and Engineering
Before setting up the tank system on site, it is essential to assess the area. You need to check the soil quality and water levels and ensure accessibility for machinery used in construction work; this will help you decide on the appropriate tank type to use at that location.
Tank Size and Usable Capacity
Hospitals must choose the tank size for their water storage based on factors like peak water usage requirements and emergency reserves, as well as local regulations on water storage capacity.
City/County/State Regulations
Hospitals must follow state and federal rules related to properly storing water underground in tanks by obtaining the required permits and ensuring the tank meets safety and environmental standards.
Best Practices to Maintain Tank
Taking care of water storage tanks is crucial to ensuring they last a long time and work well. Here are a few key methods for keeping these tanks in top shape.
Regular Inspections
Regular Maintenance Checks and performance inspections are performed to look for indications of rusting or wear and tear on the tank’s structure or plumbing system components.
Cleaning and Sanitation
Regular maintenance is crucial to avoid the accumulation of sediment and algae in hospital tanks, where following cleaning procedures is essential to maintaining safe water quality standards.
Monitor Water Quality
Regularly check the tank’s water for substances and germs to maintain its quality and safety, for patient care, and other purposes.
Regular and Prompt Repairs
Take care of any problems found during inspections immediately. Repairs can prevent larger issues and keep the tank running smoothly.
Water storage below the ground is a part of hospital facilities as it guarantees a supply of clean water for different purposes. To ensure they meet their water storage requirements effectively and efficiently, hospitals can benefit from understanding the significance of water storage options, the advantages they offer, and the recommended methods for setting up and maintaining them. At National Storage Tank, we are committed to providing notch water storage systems tailored to the specific needs of healthcare institutions. Reach out to us now to discover details about our offerings and how we can assist you in setting up a water storage solution for your medical facility.
