Knowledge base
How to meet fire-protection requirements for firefighting water reserves?
Fire-protection regulations require the maintenance of a firefighting water reserve. Learn about the requirements, calculation methods, and installation options.
Scale of the problem
The proportion of public-use buildings in which State Fire Service (PSP) inspections identify non-conformities — including an insufficient firefighting water reserve.
Minimum fire-protection tank capacities for industrial and warehouse facilities, dependent on hazard classification.
The maximum penalty for non-compliance with fire-protection regulations, including the possibility of facility closure.
The required period for which a fire-protection installation must guarantee an uninterrupted supply of firefighting water for typical facilities.
When is a firefighting water reserve required?
The obligation to maintain a water reserve for fire-protection purposes arises from the Regulation of the Minister of Internal Affairs and Administration on fire-protection water supply and from technical and construction regulations.
A firefighting water reserve is required primarily where the water supply network does not provide adequate pressure and flow rate for hydrant or sprinkler installations, and also in facilities located beyond the reach of the water supply network.
This applies to, among others: industrial and warehouse facilities, logistics centres, production halls, large-area retail facilities, as well as residential estates and public-use buildings in locations with inadequate water supply infrastructure.
The obligation may also arise from a decision issued by the PSP commander during the process of obtaining an occupancy permit or as a result of a facility inspection.
Regulations and standards — how to calculate the required capacity?
The required capacity of a fire-protection tank depends on a number of factors defined in the regulations:
Human hazard classification (ZL) — buildings are divided into categories from ZL I to ZL V. Buildings in higher hazard categories require larger water reserves.
Explosion hazard category — explosion-hazard zones require a greater volume of firefighting water and a longer supply duration.
Floor area and volume of the building — the larger the building, the greater the required output of the firefighting installation and the capacity of the reserve tank.
For example: for a warehouse hall with a floor area of 5,000 m² in fire hazard category PM, fitted with a sprinkler installation with an output of 30 l/min/m² over an operating area of 260 m², with a required supply duration of 60 minutes, the water reserve amounts to approximately 470 m³. The exact calculations should be performed by a licensed fire protection expert.
Types of fire-water tanks
Various types of tanks are used to store fire-water reserves, depending on the location conditions and requirements:
Above-ground steel tanks — the most popular solution for industrial and warehouse facilities. Easy to install, inspect, and maintain. Manufactured from carbon steel with an anti-corrosion coating or from stainless steel.
Underground tanks — used where there is no space for an above-ground tank, or where aesthetic requirements rule out an above-ground structure. They require appropriate anti-corrosion protection and insulation.
Pressure tanks (hydrophore tanks) — used in systems that require constant pressure to be maintained in the hydrant network. A pressure tank with an air cushion provides an immediate supply of pressurised water without the need to start pumps.
The choice of tank type should take into account: the required capacity, ground conditions, available space, pressure requirements, and projected operating costs.
Consequences of not having the required fire-water reserve
The absence of an adequate fire-water reserve carries serious consequences:
Refusal to issue an occupancy permit — for new facilities, the absence of a fire-protection tank required under the project prevents the granting of an occupancy permit and the commencement of operations.
Decision to withdraw the facility from use — the commander of the State Fire Service (PSP) may issue a decision prohibiting the operation of the facility until the non-compliance is remedied, which means a complete suspension of activity.
Financial penalties — violation of fire protection regulations is subject to a fine of up to PLN 500,000. In the event of a fire in which the lack of fire water contributed to the losses, the liability may be considerably broader.
Civil and criminal liability — the owner or manager of a facility is responsible for ensuring fire safety. In the event of an incident, the absence of the required fire-water reserve constitutes an aggravating circumstance.
Maintenance and inspections of fire-protection tanks
Installation alone is not the end — a fire-protection system requires regular maintenance and inspections:
Periodic inspections — fire-protection tanks should undergo regular technical inspections covering the condition of anti-corrosion coatings, tightness, fittings, and water quality.
UDT examinations — pressure tanks used in fire-protection systems are subject to technical supervision and require periodic UDT examinations.
PSP inspections — the State Fire Service (PSP) carries out inspections of facilities, during which it verifies, among other things, the condition of the fire-protection tank, the water level, and the performance of the installation.
Water quality — in fire-protection tanks containing standing water, periodic water replacement or the use of a circulation system is necessary to prevent the growth of microorganisms and corrosion.
By choosing a tank from a manufacturer with experience in fire-protection projects, you gain support in selecting the right solution and confidence in regulatory compliance.
Related products from our offer
Non-pressure underground water tanks
Above-ground and underground tanks for storing fire-water reserves. Manufactured from carbon or stainless steel, with anti-corrosion coatings.
View details →Above-ground single-walled tanks
Single-walled water tanks, ideal as above-ground fire-protection tanks. Various capacities, tailored to the requirements of the facility.
View details →Pressure tanks for liquids and gases
Pressure tanks (hydrophore tanks) for fire-protection systems requiring constant pressure to be maintained in the hydrant network.
View details →Do you need a firefighting water tank?
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