Safety must come first: A call for responsible water tank installation in South Africa

Recent events in the Northern Cape have once again brought South Africa’s water reality into sharp focus. As communities increasingly rely on water storage to cope with unreliable supply, the importance of safety, correct installation and responsible infrastructure choices cannot be overstated.

Water storage plays a critical role in household and community sustainability, but it also carries real risks if systems are poorly designed, incorrectly installed or inadequately supported.

To that end, JoJo is issuing an open letter to consumers, installers, contractors and public bodies, urging renewed attention to water tank safety and installation standards:

South Africa is under growing water pressure, and for many households and communities, water tanks have shifted from being optional extras to essential infrastructure.

A full water tank, however, is more than a simple container. It is a structure carrying significant weight, and when placed on unstable ground or supported by inadequate stands, the risks increase significantly.

Recent events have reinforced the importance of correct installation, appropriate support structures, and regular maintenance in keeping water storage systems safe. This is a shared responsibility.

Proper installation is not a technical formality; it is a safety requirement. Engineered, load-bearing stands, level and stable foundations, strict adherence to installation guidelines, and routine inspections are all essential. When these elements are overlooked, manageable risks can quickly escalate, especially in environments where children and other vulnerable community members are present.

Quality beyond the product

Consumers are often encouraged to prioritise capacity and price when selecting water storage solutions. Yet, true quality extends beyond the tank itself. The stand, foundation preparation, installation method and ongoing maintenance all play a critical role in ensuring long-term safety.

As water storage becomes more widespread, education around these factors must keep pace. Safety guidance should be clear, visible and consistently reinforced, whether tanks are installed by private contractors, municipalities or community-based programmes.

A collective call

JoJo calls on all stakeholders to take proactive steps to prevent future harm:

• Municipalities and public bodies must ensure tanks installed as part of water relief or infrastructure projects meet appropriate safety and installation standards.
• Installers and contractors must use fit-for-purpose, load-bearing stands and follow installation guidelines without compromise.
• Consumers and communities should ask questions, insist on compliant installations and ensure tanks and stands are kept secure and inaccessible to children.

Water insecurity should not introduce new risks to life and safety. Access to water must go hand in hand with responsible infrastructure decisions.

JoJo remains committed to promoting safe water storage practices and supporting education around proper installation and use. If greater awareness today can prevent tragedy tomorrow, then this is a conversation worth having.