Water Supply Industry Interpretations and Advice
Full list of Interpretations and Advice
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Risk assessment
Title: Laboratories – risk of contamination by backflow
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: October 2000
Reference: B01
In general, laboratories should be regarded as presenting the highest level of backflow risk (Fluid Category 5) unless, following a risk assessment, there is evidence to the contrary. However, arising from Health and Safety restrictions which should be in place, the laboratories of secondary schools can be considered less than a Category 5 risk.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: RPZ Valves
Title: RPZ valves - record keeping
Clause Reference: G15.7
Decision Date: Oct 2000 & June 2002
Reference: B02
Where an RPZ valve (Type BA device) is no longer necessary for backflow protection, it can be left in place but should be recorded as "Not required". In the event that it was once again required, it would require regular testing.
In those instances where RPZ valves are used for backflow prevention for backflow risks below fluid category 4, the Water Supplier should inspect the installation. It is preferable, but not obligatory, that the Water Supplier should maintain records of the installation.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Emergency supplies
Title: Renal Dialysis units – emergency water supplies to hospitals
Clause Reference: G15.1
Decision Date: February 2001
Reference: B03
In an emergency, an acceptable arrangement, for the direct connection of a hospital renal dialysis unit to a supply pipe, bypassing the normal storage cistern, is via a Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valve (Type BA device), designating the system a fluid category four risk.
A maintenance routine would be required that not only includes the RPZ valve, but also necessitates the regular flushing of the deadlegs up-stream and down-stream of the valve. Any hospital seeking to install such an arrangement should be advised to first establish that the supply pipe pressure is adequate for the supply via an RPZ valve. Hospitals are advised not to place reliance on a continuous mains supply.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Steam ovens – catering equipment
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2001
Reference: B04
Steam ovens that are pressurised are to be classified as Fluid Category 5. Unpressurised steam ovens may be regarded as Fluid Category 3 - with protection by a double check valve or equivalent device.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Dry cleaning machines
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: B05
The closed circuit cooling system in dry cleaning machines should be regarded as a Fluid Category 2 risk, unless or until circumstances arise that indicate a need for a review of the classification by the Water Supplier.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Backflow risk in dog and cat kennels
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: B06
Hose union taps and washing machines for use at dog and cat kennels should be regarded as a Fluid Category 5 risk, because of the risk of human pathogens such as Cryptosporidium in animal body fluids and wastes.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Pressure washers
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: B07
Pressure washers used for cleaning commercial hire plant and supplied by a 15mm bib tap which is connected to the mains supply, should be regarded as a Fluid Category 4 risk. A risk assessment should be carried out to establish if the risk may be higher, especially where the equipment or location to be cleaned could be contaminated with human or animal wastes.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Use of 'Fluid Category 5'
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: B08
The backflow risk classification “Fluid Category 5” should be reserved for examples of the worst backflow hazard. An indiscriminate categorisation of hazards as “Fluid Category 5” can compromise the classification system.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Filling loops
Title: Rapid filling of heating and cooling systems in non-domestic premises
Clause Reference: G24.2
Decision Date: October 2001 (Revised May 2004)
Reference: B09
When vented or unvented closed circuit heating or chilled water cooling systems require rapid filling for the purpose of flushing or initial filling after installation, a temporary flexible filling loop connection from a supply pipe with backflow protection may be used providing that:-
1. the section of pipe being filled contains no fluids, or
2. the section of pipe being filled contains a heat transfer fluid that contain no additives or is a fluid of no greater risk than category 3.
The required backflow protection being a double check valve installed on the connection point to the supply pipe, with an optional additional service valve or double check valve installed on the connection to the closed circuit filling point (see diagram R24.2a/G24.2a).
The temporary filling loop must be removed after the filling is complete and before the system is pressurised. The same method is permitted for re-filling after complete drain-down of existing systems provided no additives are introduced or already present in the system. Routine topping up of the closed circuit during normal operation must be carried out with the backflow protection required by the Regulations. Where permanently installed arrangements are required for rapid filling, the backflow protection must comply with fluid category four.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Washbasins in hairdressing saloons.
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: October 2001
Reference: B10
Washbasins used in hairdressing salons should be regarded as fluid category three, permitting the use of a double check valve or equivalent device as backflow protection for a flexible hose used with the washbasins.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Temporary supplies
Title: Dosing equipment - temporary connection under the provision of Regulation 2(2).
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(2)
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: B11
The provisions of Regulation 2(2), in exempting from the Regulations certain temporary water supply connections, do not permit a chemical dosing unit to be intermittently connected to a hose union tap without the use of proper backflow protection related to the fluid risk posed by the chemicals Regulation 2(2) applies to temporary water supplies e.g. for building construction purposes.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Flushing water systems prior to commissioning
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: B12
The Fluid Category risk of a newly installed water plumbing system before flushing and commissioning is considered to be not more than Fluid Category 3. Rapid filling of the system would be permitted using a temporary connection by means of a hose of no greater than 25mm (1”) diameter, protected against backflow by a double check valve, unless a risk assessment, taking into account specific circumstances, indicates that a higher level of backflow protection is required.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Swimming pools in domestic and non-domestic premises and hose union taps
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2002 (Revised September 2010)
Reference: B13
Whilst the water in a swimming pool is always categorised as a fluid category 5 risk hose union taps in private dwellings used at the poolside, provided that:-
1. an air gap between the outlet of any attached hose and pool water is maintained at all times and the hose is not immersed or submerged in pool water; and
2. any hose attached is fitted with a self closing trigger outlet may be regarded as a fluid category 3 risk and as such could be protected against backflow by means of a double check valve - insulated against freezing where appropriate.
Hose union taps at poolside in non-domestic premises may providing the same conditions are met be protected against backflow by an arrangement offering a minimum of fluid category 4 backflow protection. For the purposes of this interpretation a domestic installation is a bath, pool or tank used by the occupants of a single privately owned or rented property for their and their friends, personal use. Where a bath, pool or tank is used by the occupants of more than one property the local water supplier will need to carry out a risk assessment to determine the level of risk.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Baths – residential care accommodation
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: B14
Thermostatic mixing valves on supplies to baths and showers in residential accommodation classified as providing 'Care in the Community' should be regarded as a Fluid Category 3 risk, unless a risk assessment indicates the likelihood of contamination greater than normal than that which may be found in domestic premises.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Fence-cleaning chemical spray equipment directly connected to mains
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: B15
Assessment of the backflow risk of the chemicals used by the Sadolin Clean & Protect System for cleaning and re-colouring wooden fences indicated a fluid category three risk. To use it as intended by the makers, with a hose union tap fed directly from the mains, requires backflow protection by a double check valve. No other chemicals should be used in the spray dispenser.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Maintaining supplies
Title: Cross connections - permissible arrangements
Clause Reference: R14.2
Decision Date: February 2002 (Revised September 2005)
Reference: B16
This interpretation does not give justification for cross-connections in general.
Where a storage cistern is normally used to provide continuity of the supply of wholesome water and is not required to provide backflow protection against contamination risks greater than fluid category 3, in order to maintain a supply of water for domestic, food production or healthcare purposes in an emergency, a cross-connection to bypass the cistern, between a mains water supply pipe and a distributing pipe from the outlet of the cistern, will be deemed as complying with the Regulations, providing the connection is protected by an approved double check valve or equivalent Fluid Category 3 backflow protection device.
The connection between the supply pipe and the distributing pipe should be as short as possible and assurances should be sought from users of the premises that there is a procedure in place, such as a flushing regime, for operating the bypass to minimize contamination from the effect of any dead legs and to prevent backflow.
Where a pump with a design output of greater than 12 litres/mm is installed on the distributing pipe from the storage cistern, the cross connection of the supply pipe to the distributing pipe must not be made upstream of (i.e. before) the pump, without written consent from the local water supplier as required by Regulation (Byelaw) 5. A network analysis may need to be carried out on the distribution network at the customer’s expense to ensure that the pump will not have a detrimental effect on other outlets connected to the supply pipe or on the supplies of other customers connected to the water main.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Dishwashing machines in small nursing homes
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: B17
In small nursing homes and other similar establishments, subject to a risk assessment based on local circumstances, a lower category of backflow protection than the usual Fluid Category 5 for healthcare premises can be accepted for dishwashing machines. The risk assessment should show that the need of the residents for healthcare does not result in a risk of contamination by backflow which is unacceptable for a lesser level of protection.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fire sprinklers
Title: Fire sprinkler systems – backflow protection of domestic water supplies
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2002 (Revised October 2011)
Reference: B18
Fire sprinkler systems which do not contain additives only:
A backflow prevention arrangement rated to at least fluid category 2 (e.g. an approved single check valve) must be installed on all branches connecting fire sprinkler systems to a supply or distributing pipe conveying water to be used for domestic purposes (i.e. water used for drinking, bathing, cooking or washing.). The backflow prevention arrangement should be installed on the fire sprinkler pipework as close as is reasonably practicable to the point(s) of connection to the supply or distributing pipe.
Fire sprinkler systems using additives are classified as a fluid category 4 risk, and the appropriate backflow protection device or arrangement should be provided.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Maintaining an air gap
Title: Pre-rinse spray units for catering use
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2002
Reference: B19
A hose and trigger-operated spray attachment of a catering pre-rinse unit (e.g. plate pre-wash rinse sinks) does not require additional backflow protection provided that it is installed to comply with the requirement for an AUK3 air gap and the unit is not damaged or altered such that the outlet compromises the air gap, for example by remaining below the spillover level of the sink. The AUK3 air gap thus provided gives backflow protection against fluid category 5 risk which the sink represents.
If on inspection of premises the air gap was found to have been compromised, alternative means of providing the backflow protection will be required by the Water Supplier’s enforcement staff.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Flexible hoses
Title: Restraining rings for backflow protection of flexible shower hoses
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2002
Reference: B20
Constraining the outlet of a flexible shower hose from being placed below the spillover level of the shower tray or bath by means of a restraining ring is an acceptable means of backflow prevention in domestic and hotel bathrooms, but unacceptable where the fluid category risk could obviously be judged as being more severe, for instance, in a mortuary.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Flexible hoses
Title: Flexible hoses used in catering premises for vegetable preparation
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2002
Reference: B21
Hoses used in vegetable preparation areas in catering establishments should be considered as fluid category 5 and therefore require an air gap – either AUK3 or supply via a suitable storage cistern.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Water heaters
Title: Filling and topping up heating system primary circuits.
Clause Reference: G15.3 & G24.2
Decision Date: June 2002 (Revised May 2004)
Reference: B22
Heating system appliances of any size in purely domestic premises, and single appliances or combinations of appliances rated at an output of not more than 45kW (150,000 Btu/hr) in other types of premises (such as small offices), should be regarded as a fluid category three backflow risk. For such appliances, a temporary filling loop with a double check valve for backflow protection is permitted, the filling loop being disconnected when it is not in use. The double check valve must be installed before the filling loop and remain on supply pipe connection when the loop is disconnected. For appliances above this heating output, in other than a house, the topping up system would require fluid category four protection. (See also B09: Temporary arrangements for rapid filling of heating and cooling systems in non-domestic premises.)
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Backflow protection
Title: Temporary water supplies to agricultural shows and festivals etc.
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(2) & G15.5
Decision Date: October 2002
Reference: B23
Where these supplies are temporary, i.e. less than one month, the Regulations should be considered to have been complied with where there is a simple written agreement setting out the conditions of use and backflow prevention measures, broadly in line with the provisions of Regulation 2(2) i.e. the water supply is metered and the supplier’s main is protected against backflow, with all taps for supply of water for domestic purposes protected by a double check valve or equivalent protection.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Glass washers
Title: Glass washing machines
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: October 2002
Reference: B24
Counter-top or under-counter cabinet type washers used for washing drinking glasses in bars etc. are accepted as being in fluid category 3 where they represent no greater risk than domestic dishwashing machines.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Cement batching plant
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: October 2002 (Revised May 2004)
Reference: B25
Cement mortar batching plant, where the mortar materials are heated and dried sufficiently to minimise the risk of micro-organism contamination, may be accepted as being a fluid category 3 risk. Plants producing ready-mix concrete are unlikely to use heat dried and disinfected aggregate and are recognised as a fluid category 4 risk. If such equipment makes use of a RPZ valve for backflow protection the valve should be tested either on relocation of the plant between building sites or at six-monthly intervals, whichever is more frequent.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Secondary backflow protection
Title: Secondary backflow protection for Caravan and residential park homes
Clause Reference: G15.24a
Decision Date: February 2003
Reference: B26
Where caravan holiday homes (static caravans) and residential park homes, located at the same elevation, are supplied by a common supply pipe or distributing network, secondary backflow protection is not obligatory unless a site risk assessment indicates a need. Where they are situated at different elevations, secondary backflow protection is required, unless a site risk assessment indicates there is some other adequate backflow protection.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Backflow protection
Title: Backflow protection for water supplies to construction sites
Clause Reference: G15
Decision Date: May 2008
Reference: B27
This information is only available as a downloadable pdf file. To download the file, please click on the link below.
http://www.wras.co.uk/pdf_files/constr_sites.pdf
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Backflow risk assessment for allotment hose union taps:
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: October 2003
Reference: B28
Where a hose union tap on an allotment garden is used in accordance with the following conditions, it can be considered as being of no greater risk than the equivalent tap in a domestic garden. That is to say that would be categorised as a fluid category 3 risk. If these conditions are not met or do not apply a risk assessment will be required and may result in a higher level of backflow protection due to the increased risk.
Conditions
1. Hoses will be hand-held in use, with “fail-safe” means of flow shut-off (i.e. self-closing trigger mechanism) or, if connected to irrigation systems, will have fixed sprinkler heads or outlets not less than 150 mm above ground and will not use additives (fertilisers, pesticides).
2. Hoses are permitted to be used with hand-held sprays containing readily available domestic fertilisers (but NOT insecticides or herbicides etc.);
3. Seep hoses in direct contact or less than 150mm above the soil are considered to be a fluid category four backflow risk and must not be connected to a mains-fed hose union tap equipped only with a double check valve. These may be permitted when used with a type DB pipe interrupter (Refer to G15.23 of the Defra Guidance for further information) or other fluid category 4 protection device.
4. Garden chemicals: where the formulation and concentration of chemicals used by allotment holders are the same as those available for purchase and use in domestic gardens.
5. The use of animal wastes (farmyard manure etc.) is possibly greater on allotments than in domestic gardens, but these materials are used on soils in domestic gardens and the risks from their presence are similar.
6. Presence of drains etc. into which hoses could be immersed is considered to be no more likely than in domestic gardens.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Backflow protection for hydrants or washouts
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: May 2004
Reference: B29
Below ground mains fed hydrant outlets used for general purposes other than fire fighting are considered to be a fluid category 5 backflow risk and must be supplied via a suitable backflow prevention arrangement.
Mains fed hydrants specifically designated for fire fighting purposes in low risk areas such as caravan parks may, following a risk assessment, be considered a lower category of risk and may be installed below ground. In high risk areas such as abattoirs fire fighting hydrants directly connected to mains are only permitted above ground and their use is subject to agreement with the Water Supplier.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Hose union taps used in bin stores
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: May 2004
Reference: B30
Hose union taps used in bin store areas serving domestic premises, such as a block of flats, are regarded as a fluid category 3 risk, unless a risk assessment, taking into account specific circumstances, indicates that a higher level of backflow protection is required.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Compost irrigation in wormeries
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: May 2004
Reference: B31
Providing that the outlets of the irrigation sprinkler system are at a fixed height of not less than 150 mm above the level of the spillover of the compost container and the compost bed itself, and that no additives are used in the irrigation water, irrigation systems for compost used to produce worms are considered to be fluid category 3.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Whole site and zone backflow prevention
Title: Verifiable check valves installed below ground
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 15(4) & G15.24
Decision Date: September 2004
Reference: B32
Where whole site and zone backflow protection is required a water supplier may accept, subject to a risk assessment and providing that it is located in a chamber of adequate size to allow for maintenance, the installation of a verifiable check valve below ground.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Baptism pools
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: May 2005
Reference: B33
Pools used by religious groups for baptism are regarded as a fluid category 3 risk, and as such water supplies used for filling and replenishing baptism pools require fluid category three backflow protection.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Taps incorporating a pull out spray
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 26 & G15.3
Decision Date: May 2005
Reference: B34
Combination tap assemblies, which incorporate a flexible spray hose, installed in sinks in domestic premises, are permitted to be supplied directly from the supply pipe provided that:
1. the most serious backflow risk for the spray hose outlet arises solely from the presence of the sink ;and
2. the spray hose is fitted with a self-closing flow control mechanism; and
3. the hot and cold water inlets to the tap assembly include a double check valve.
If these conditions are not met, or if the tap is installed in locations other than in sinks in domestic premises, the assembly must be fed via a backflow prevention arrangement that provides fluid category 5 protection. A separate drinking water tap providing wholesome water may also be required.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Acceptability of two single check valves in place of a double check valve
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 15(5)
Decision Date: September 2005
Reference: B35
Two suitably approved single check valves (Type EA device) installed in series are accepted as offering the equivalent level of protection as that afforded by a double check valve (Type EC device) providing the maximum distance between the adjacent flanges of the valves did not exceed twice their nominal bore and the operation of one component does not interfere with the operation of the other.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Baths for assisted bathing of the disabled
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: May 2006
Reference: B37
Unless a risk assessment determines otherwise, all baths in domestic premises used to bathe disabled people living in that household are considered to be a fluid category 3 risk irrespective of the number of disabled people living in the property.
Baths in care homes where health care is provided are regarded as fluid category 5.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Backflow protection requirements for reverse osmosis units
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: May 2007
Reference: B38
Domestic reverse osmosis units and small scale industrial reverse osmosis units using replaceable cartridges are regarded as a fluid category 3 risk.
Reverse osmosis units that employ larger scale industrial processes which use chemical additives, for example to clean the reverse osmosis membrane are, depending upon the outcome of a risk assessment, either a fluid category 4 or 5 risk.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Type DC arrangements
Title: Alignment of the installation requirements for Type DC arrangements
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 15(5)
Decision Date: January 2008
Reference: B39
In the case of Type DC arrangements the WRAS Technical Committee has agreed that a reduction in the distance between the lowest point of the air aperture and the free discharge point or spillover level of an appliance from 300mm to 150mm, in alignment with the requirements specified in the British Standard and European norm, is acceptable. All other installation requirements remain unaltered.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Humidifiers
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: May 2010
Reference: B40
Those Humidifiers which introduce water either as steam or by spraying it into an air stream are regarded as a fluid category 2 risk. Where these units are supplied with a drain to waste a fluid category five device such as an air break to drain is required at the waste connection.
Humidifiers that pre-treat water using reverse osmosis units that employ larger scale industrial processes which use chemical additives, for example to clean the reverse osmosis membrane are, depending upon the outcome of a risk assessment, either a fluid category 4 or 5 risk.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Type DC and air break to drain
Title: Use of Type DC arrangements and air break to drains in laboratories
Clause Reference: Regulation 4 (6) ©
Decision Date: May 2010
Reference: B41
Air break to drain and Type DC arrangements installed on laboratory taps are a permitted means of point-of use fluid category 5 backflow protection in all laboratories.
Users of such arrangements must be aware that the acceptability of such arrangements is dependent upon the outlet, including the outlet of any hose attached:-
1. remaining unrestricted which would mean that it could not be attached to any apparatus that would create a back pressure; and
2. discharging at least 150mm below the air vents of the air-break to drain or DC device, ruling out raising the hose outlet above this point.
3. the spillover level of the any receiving vessel is at least 150mm below the air vents
Only arrangements which satisfy these requirements will be accepted. Where such arrangements are identified as being used inappropriately, the Water Supplier can require an alternative means of backflow protection at the point of use in those premises.
Where the consequence of a backflow incident would be especially serious because of the nature of the substances handled in specific laboratories, a risk assessment should be made to decide whether zone or whole-site protection is required in addition to the point of use protection.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Back flow protection
Title: Backflow protection for storage cisterns water storing wholesome water
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 15 (4) (b)
Decision Date: May 2010
Reference: B42
Having been discharged into a storage cistern, water can no longer be considered as water supplied directly from the water undertaker’s main and backflow protection must be provided at the inlet to the storage cistern. Whilst it is the custom and practice is to install a type AG air gap at the inlet, alternative suitable backflow protection such as a single check valve is equally acceptable.
Note: A means of warning for an impending overflow and an overflow are still required (see I16).
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Back up supplies for grey water systems
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 15 (4)
Decision Date: May 2010
Reference: B43
As an alternative to installing a separate intermediate storage cistern an acceptable method for supplying back up mains water to a WC flushed using grey or rain water would be to install a cistern with two inlets arranged to form a type AB air gap as shown schematically in fig 1 (See link to Figure 1 below)
http://www.wras.co.uk/pictures/interpretations/b43.jpg
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Spa, floatation and whirlpool baths
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: September 2010
Reference: B44
Water in all spa pools and floatation tanks is categorised as a fluid category 5 risk. Whirlpool baths designed for use by one or two bathers which are emptied between uses will be regarded as a fluid category 5 risk in healthcare premises but may be considered a fluid category 3 risk in non-health care situations.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Hose union taps used in connection with spa, floatation and whirlpool baths
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: September 2010
Reference: B45
Hose union taps used in connection with, whirlpool baths, spa pools and floatation tanks in domestic premises may, provided that:-
1 . an air gap between the outlet of any attached hose and pool water is maintained at all times and the hose is not immersed or submerged in pool water; and
2. any hose attached is fitted with a self closing trigger outlet
may be regarded as a fluid category 3 risk and as such can be protected against backflow by means of a double check valve - insulated against freezing where appropriate.
Hose union taps used in connection with whirlpool baths, spa pools and floatation tanks in non-domestic premises may providing the same conditions are met, be protected against backflow by an arrangement offering a minimum of fluid category 4 backflow protection.
For the purposes of this interpretation a domestic installation is a bath, pool or tank used by the occupants of a single privately owned or rented property for their and their friends, personal use. Where a bath, pool or tank is used by the occupants of more than one property the local water supplier will need to carry out a risk assessment to determine the level of risk.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Fire station fire hydrants
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: February 2011
Reference: B46
Fire hydrants used exclusively by the emergency services for fire drill and training in fire stations can be considered as a fluid category 2 risk, unless a risk assessment, taking into account specific circumstances, indicates that a higher level of backflow protection is required.
Area of Interest: Backflow prevention
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Retractable hoses on catering steaming ovens
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: June 2011
Reference: B47
Where a steaming oven incorporates a hose intended for cleaning the oven cabinet providing that the hose is self retracting and fitted with a self closing trigger the hose may be considered a fluid category 3 risk.
Area of Interest: Disputes
Topic: Resolving disputes
Title: Advice on disputes and arbitration
Clause Reference: Regulation 13
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: D01
Where a dispute exists between any person and the Water Supplier arising from:-
(a) the granting of consent in response to notification or
(b) the refusal by the Water Supplier to apply to the Regulator for a relaxation.
Regulation/Byelaw 13 sets out a procedure for resolving the matter. Where customers have grievances over other Regulations matters, they will need to use a different means of resolving them. WRAS offers one informal means of resolution by discussing the issues with each party and seeking to establish a mutually acceptable and consistent interpretation. WRAS can be contacted by telephone, letter or e-mail to request its involvement.
The Water Supplier has the responsibility to enforce the Regulations in its area of supply and may need to seek an interpretation of the Regulations from the courts by bringing a prosecution, where other means fail to resolve disputes. (Regulation 13).
Area of Interest: Enforcement
Topic: Scope of the Regulations/Byelaws
Title: Systems conveying both mains water and water from an alternative source
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(1)
Decision Date: January 2004
Reference: E01
Where a water fitting is supplied with water derived from both the public main and another source, such as reused water or a private supply, Water Suppliers are still responsible for enforcing the Water Fittings Regulations.
Therefore downstream of the backflow prevention arrangement to protect the mains supply from backflow of the mixed supply, a water supplier still has the duty to enforce the Regulations. In respect of prevention of contamination of water, a water supplier has authority to deal with contamination risks in premises which receive mixed supplies. That is to say, to prevent contamination by means of backflow, ingress, cross connection, unsuitable materials and identification by labelling. However Water Suppliers do not have a duty to enforce matters relating to the wholesomeness for drinking and other domestic purposes of the private water supply or of the mixed water supplies. (Water quality of private water supplies falls under Private Supply Regulations and as such comes under the jurisdiction of the Local Authority through its Environmental Health department.)
Area of Interest: Enforcement
Topic: Scope of the Regulations/Byelaws
Title: Contractor’s liability
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(1)
Decision Date: June 2011
Reference: E02
Whilst a plumber or contractor cannot be held responsible for any infringement in plumbing work carried out previously by others, they do have an obligation to report the infringement to the person who is responsible for those premises and to advise that the infringement be corrected. The ‘responsible person’ has a duty under S73 of the Water Industry Act 1991 to prevent the waste, misuse, undue consumption and contamination of mains water.
Whilst contractors should always seek their own legal advice, it is important to note that if the plumber or contractor realises that the infringement is so serious that it could cause a risk to human health it must be reported to the householder, water supplier and Environmental Health. Should the contractor fail to do so and a person is subsequently harmed, he or she could face prosecution.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Stopcocks
Title: Need for boundary stopcocks
Clause Reference: G10.3
Decision Date: October 2000
Reference: I01
Where an Intex or an equivalent meter box is mounted on the wall of a property thereby supplanting the need for a boundary stopcock, one legal interpretation based upon sections 46(6), 158(4) and 163(2) of the Water Industry Act 1991 is that a boundary stopcock is still required. However, this interpretation is not shared by Ofwat and some Water Suppliers.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Preventing cross connection
Title: Inappropriate use of blue coloured pipe
Clause Reference: G14.1
Decision Date: February 2001
Reference: I02
To prevent blue colour-coded pipe being used for inappropriate purposes – conveying sewage etc., Local Authorities should be encouraged to add conditions to Licences for Road Opening prohibiting incorrect uses.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Pressure testing
Title: Plastics pipes - test requirements.
Clause Reference: G12.3
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: I03
The Regulations offer a choice of methods for pressure testing of plastics pipe systems.
The selection of either Test A, requiring the rapid pressurisation of the system and subsequent inspection for pressure loss and leaks or Test B, pressurisation and monitoring of pressure drop, shall be a matter for the Water Supplier.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Stop valves
Title: Stop valves – for two or more premises with common supply or distributing pipes
Clause Reference: G10.3, G10.4
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: I04
For two or more separately-occupied premises supplied by a common supply or distributing pipe, if a key operated, emergency shut-off valve is installed which is under the control of a building supervisor on a 24 hour per day basis, an individual site assessment could conclude that Clauses G 10.3 and G 10.4 of the Department’s Guidance were satisfied with regard to the location of stop-valves to multi-occupancy buildings
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Pipes
Title: Location of pipes under solid floors
Clause Reference: G 7.1
Decision Date: June 2001 (Revised October 2011)
Reference: I05
Where pipes, other than under floor heating pipes, are to be installed in solid floors, they shall be in a duct or chase which permits withdrawal of the pipe or provides access to replace it and any associated fittings, if necessary. It will be satisfactory for the installation either to be of one length of pipe (i.e. without joints) or, alternatively, if joints are installed within the floor, for the installation to undergo a satisfactory witnessed pressure test.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Contamination
Title: Ban on lead-based solder – declaration from developer/installer
Clause Reference: G2.1
Decision Date: October 2001
Reference: I06
Water Suppliers are encouraged to request developers and installers to include a signed statement, when making notification of plumbing plans, that lead-based solder will not be used for joints in plumbing systems which deliver water for domestic or food production purposes.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Water heaters - expansion water
Title: Isolation valves in expansion vessel pipework.
Clause Reference: G17.1d
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: I07
Examples have been found of multiple unvented water heaters connected via isolation valves to a common expansion vessel, in order to enable maintenance work to be carried out on one heater without draining down the system.
A risk arises that if the isolation valve is not re-opened after a maintenance operation, the water which would otherwise be accommodated in the expansion vessel will be discharged to waste through the expansion valve. Where its staff are aware of it, the Water Supplier has a duty to advise customers in writing of the potential waste of water arising from this practice and to advise removal of the isolation valves.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Pipes
Title: Colour coding of supply pipes
Clause Reference: R 2.1.6 & R14.1
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: I08
Pipes buried within the boundary of a property must comply with the Regulations and should be colour-coded for identification purposes, whereas the Water Supplier’s pipes buried in the road are subject to the colour-coding conventions in the National Joint Utilities Group voluntary code of practice. (Also see I28 'Relative positioning of utility services.)
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Water heaters - expansion water
Title: Mains fed water storage heaters of 15 litres or less.
Clause Reference: G17.1d
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: I09
Although it is excluded from the Guidance in G17.1d, manufacturers are advised that a water heater of 15 litres or less capacity, fed from the supply pipe, should be fitted with an approved expansion vessel or approved expansion valve. This is to prevent failure of the heat exchanger because of the inability of expansion water to return to the supply pipe if, as is usual, a check valve is installed upstream.
An Installation and Requirement Note (IRN) will be added to relevant entries in the Water Fittings and Materials Directory.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Fittings
Title: Continued use of fittings lawfully installed under the former Water Supply Byelaws.
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(4)
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: I10
Regulation 2(4) (Byelaw 2(4)) has the effect of permitting nothing in the Regulations to require owners or occupiers of premises to alter fittings that were lawfully installed in accordance with the requirements of the former Byelaws in force at the time of installation. However, if in the reasonable opinion of the Water Supplier an unacceptable risk of contamination or waste of water exists as a result of these ‘lawfully installed’ fittings, the owner or occupier of the premises could be committing an offence under the Water Industry Act 1991 section73(1) or the equivalent legislation in Scotland. In such a case, the Water Supplier can require the necessary modification to the fittings to reduce the risk, e.g. to require a level of backflow protection which meets the requirements of the Regulations in force now. In enforcing the former byelaws, where they felt that local circumstances warranted it, some Water Suppliers allowed alternative arrangements to those generally illustrated in the Water Supply Byelaws Guide at that time. If improvement is now considered necessary, the apparent exemption for such existing alternative arrangements (i.e. ‘fittings which were lawfully installed under Byelaws’) does not apply. Even with such previously agreed terms, the Water Supplier can require (and in default of action by the owner or occupier, install) improvements if it considers that it is now necessary to meet the assessed risk. However, Water Suppliers are advised to examine any written terms for the alternative arrangements which had been agreed with owners or occupiers, as they may constrain the Water Supplier’s ability to require the owner or occupier to bear the expense of meeting higher standard provision now.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Accessibility of pipework
Title: Accessibility of supply pipes passing through premises in multi-occupancy.
Clause Reference: G7.1 & G10.2
Decision Date: June 2002
Reference: I11
Where a supply pipe passes through one occupancy to another, it should be protected from impact damage and have adequate frost protection and be installed in a continuous service duct. This could include the use of a purpose-made wooden duct with pipes held by clips at intervals. It should be possible to remove pipe work for repair or maintenance.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Stop valves
Title: Provision and location of common or separate supply stop valves in buildings
Clause Reference: G10.3 & G10.4
Decision Date: June 2002
Reference: I12
A stop valve is required either inside or immediately outside the premises on the supply pipe to comply with the Guidance Clauses G10.3 and G10.4 and Diagram G10.4a.
The addition of an external stop valve on the supply pipe to the premises, fitted at the boundary of the property, should be considered good practice, but not mandatory.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Servicing valves
Title: Hose union taps considered as service valves
Clause Reference: G11.1
Decision Date: February 2003
Reference: I13
Hose union bib taps, where solely used to isolate the flow of water to an appliance, as for example with dishwashers and washing machines in domestic premises, can be considered to be servicing valves.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Discharge pipes
Title: Discharges from condensing boilers
Clause Reference: G19.4
Decision Date: February 2003
Reference: I14
The expansion relief valve and the condensate discharge pipes of condensing boilers must be arranged so that their outlets can be observed to have satisfactory air gaps above any tundish which conveys the discharge and so that a discharge from either one can be observed independently of the other.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Insulation
Title: Frost protection for the supply pipe systems to, and on, allotments
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 4 (b) (ii)
Decision Date: October 2003
Reference: I15
The requirement for frost protection for the supply pipe system to, and on allotments will be deemed to have been satisfied if the supply to vulnerable taps is isolated and the system drained providing that :-
1. a double check-valve is fitted at ground level on each pipe serving a hose union tap, and a drain-cock fitted immediately downstream of it;
2. the underground pipework is of a material which is more resilient to the effects of freezing (e.g. MDPE) or other means provided to prevent frost damage occurring to the underground pipework (e.g. depth of cover or insulation);
3. the stop valve used to isolate the supplies is not the Water Supplier’s stop cock;
4. a single check valve is suitably located to prevent backflow of water in any temporary dead leg which would be created by isolating the supply to the taps;
5. the pipework and taps of systems that are drained prior to the winter months shall be fully flushed when the supply to them is restored;
6. taps shall be situated, or protected as far as possible to discourage or prevent damage from other causes including vandalism.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Overflow arrangements
Title: Requirements for an overflow for a cistern supplied via a float valve
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 16 (4) (a)
Decision Date: October 2003
Reference: I16
Where a float valve is fitted to a cistern, including primary circuit feed cisterns, an overflow (warning pipe) must be provided, regardless of whether the float valve is permanently or temporarily connected to the mains supply.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Surge arrestor
Title: Deadlegs as surge arrestors
Clause Reference: Regulation 3 (2)
Decision Date: September 2005
Reference: I18
Any system identified as likely to suffer the effects of pressure surges shall be protected by a suitably sized surge arrestor or expansion vessel. It is not acceptable to create a dead leg to act as a surge arrestor.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Pipework
Title: Proximity of plastic supply pipes, sewers and drains
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 8
Decision Date: February 2007
Reference: I19
Where plastic supply pipes are laid in close proximity and parallel to either sewers or drains, to enable repairs to either pipe without interfering or disturbing the other it is recommended that a distance of approximately 350mm separating the supply pipe and sewer or drain be provided.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Expansion vessels
Title: Installation of expansion vessels
Clause Reference: Regulation 3 (2)(i)
Decision Date: September 2007
Reference: I20
To avoid localised low turnover and the potential for bacterial growth it is recommended that expansion vessels on wholesome water systems be installed so that they are:
1. bottom fed and upright; and
2. sized correctly; and
3. have connecting pipework that is kept to a minimum to avoid creating stagnant water; and
4. have connecting pipework that continuously rises; and
5. be designed to provide a through flow of water within the vessel
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Dead leg
Title: Dead legs
Clause Reference: Regulation 3 (2) (i)
Decision Date: September 2008
Reference: I21
Where water is allowed to stagnate there is a risk of contamination and the risk should be minimised. This can be achieved by:
1. Completely removing redundant pipe work. Where this is not practicable the pipe should be terminated so that any ‘dead leg’ so created is no longer than twice the diameter of the pipe.
2. This general principle should also be applied to fittings which by design incorporate areas which do not have a steady through flow of water.
3. For pipework supplying fittings which are used infrequently i.e. fire supplies or water reuse systems with a back-up supply, appropriate backflow protection should be installed as close as reasonably practicable to the mains or supply/distributing pipe.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Supply pressure
Title: Maximum and minimum supply pressure
Clause Reference: Regulation 4 (1) (b)
Decision Date: May 2009
Reference: I22
There is no legal requirement in respect of maximum supply pressure. Where the supply pressure exceeds the maximum working pressure of fittings it is the customer’s responsibility to install a suitable pressure reducing valve or change the fittings for ones suitable for the existing supply pressure.
The minimum pressure requirements as set out in the Water industry Act (1991), Water (Scotland) Act 1980 and Water and Sewerage Services (Northern Ireland) Order 2006, is that needed to supply the top-most storey of every building within the undertaker's area of supply. However the water supplier is not required to deliver water at a height greater than that to which it will flow by gravitation through the existing water mains from the service reservoir or tank from which the supply is taken.
A supply capable of delivering 9 litres/minute at a pressure of 10m head at the boundary of the property is an Ofwat reporting criterion.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Accessibility
Title: Accessibility of operational fittings
Clause Reference: G10.1 & G10.5
Decision Date: September 2008
Reference: I23
The stop valve to be used by a customer should be located in a readily accessible place, which excludes locations such as ceiling voids. In the case of properties with multiple occupants, such as a block of flats, there is however no reason why a stop valve for maintenance or communal use should not be installed somewhere less accessible providing that a second stop valve in a more accessible position is provided for the customers’ use.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: DZR
Title: Clarification of DZR requirement for closed circuits
Clause Reference: G7.4
Decision Date: February 2009
Reference: I24
Having considered all the available evidence, in 1997 the Water Byelaws Scheme agreed that there was no need for brass safety devices installed in closed circuits to be manufactured from DZR brass. Having reviewed this decision in February 2009 the WRAS Technical Committee concluded that there was no reason to change the policy adopted in 1997.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Lead pipe
Title: Repairing lead pipe
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(4)
Decision Date: February 2010
Reference: I25
Whilst repairs using new lead pipe are prohibited under Schedule 2 paragraph 2 (1) of the Regulations and Guidance G2.1, and customers should be encouraged to replace such pipework, it is permissible to make repairs to lead supply pipes which were legally installed prior to its prohibition and the introduction of the Regulations
Where damage is restricted to small areas on internal above ground lead pipe repairs using lead free solder are acceptable. For all other types of installation or where the damage is more extensive pipework should be cut out and replaced with a suitable alternative pipe material or alternatively, where appropriate, by means of a repair clamp with a suitable material approved for wholesome water use. Customers should be aware that repairs to lead pipes, especially those exposing the water to a freshly cut lead surface, may temporarily result in raised lead concentrations, and so should be flushed before use whilst elevated lead levels occur.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Pipework
Title: Supplies in cemeteries & graveyards
Clause Reference: Schedule 2 paragraph 8
Decision Date: May 2010
Reference: I26
To minimise the risk of ingress, supply pipes in cemeteries and graveyards should be installed with as few joints and connections as practicable and should be sited where possible away from graves.
Wholesite protection is not considered necessary unless a specific risk assessment indicates a need.
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Pipes
Title: Acceptability of pipe complying with WIS 4-32-19
Clause Reference: Regulation 4(2)
Decision Date: February 2011
Reference: I27
Pipe and fittings which comply with WIS 4-32-19 are recognised as satisfying the requirements of Regulation 4(2).
Area of Interest: Installation
Topic: Utility pipes
Title: Relative positioning of utility service
Clause Reference: G4.15
Decision Date: June 2011
Reference: I28
Having gained reassurances that the revision of the National Joint Utilities Group (NJUG) Report 6 considered the risk of permeation of gas into water pipes, the WRAS Technical Committee has agreed to adopt the new guidance published in NJUG Publication Volume 1 regarding the relative positioning of services in replacement of guidance
Area of Interest: Installation / Water Quality
Topic: Disinfection of pipework
Title: Time elapsed before re-disinfection
Clause Reference: G12.3
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: IWQ01
Where disinfection of supply pipework or pipework in buildings is considered to be required, and the disinfected pipework is not commissioned and used within 30 days of successfully completing the initial disinfection, the disinfection process should be repeated before it is commissioned if a risk assessment shows that this is necessary.
Area of Interest: Non-compliance
Topic: Crown immunity
Title: Application of the regulations to premises previously covered by Crown immunity
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(2)
Decision Date: October 2002
Reference: NC01
It is considered likely that any properties that had been under Crown immunity had been instructed by their authorities to comply with the then current byelaws, but in the instances of infringements relating to the risk of contamination, modifications could be required. Other improvements could be required only where installation or modification took place after 1st December 2000, when Crown immunity was withdrawn by the Government.
Area of Interest: Non-compliance
Topic: Timescale for improvements
Title: Proportionality and timescales in requiring compliance
Clause Reference: G15.3
Decision Date: October 2002
Reference: NC02
Where a Water Supplier required improvements to a plumbing system which failed to comply with the requirements for backflow protection, taking into account the Water Supplier’s duty of “due diligence” to enforce the Regulations, it is acceptable to apply a pragmatic approach to the timescale for completion of the improvements where they involved technically-complex or expensive solutions, subject to the level of risk of backflow being:-
(i) less than fluid category 5;
(ii) the provision of additional temporary protection as an interim measure, where appropriate;
(iii) an agreement that the required improvements would be completed by an agreed date.
In the event that the premises user refused to honour the agreement and declined to install a new machine at the appointed time, legal proceedings might have to be undertaken to enforce the Regulations.
Area of Interest: Notification
Topic: Fire sprinklers
Title: Fire sprinkler systems - adequate water supply
Clause Reference: Regulation 5
Decision Date: February 2001
Reference: N01
There is no requirement in the Regulations for householders to notify the Water Supplier of an intention to install a fire sprinkler system if it is to be installed as an extension to an existing domestic system. However, consultation between householder and Water Supplier is strongly recommended and is endorsed by the British Standard 'Draft for Development', DD 251: 2000.
It should be noted that the flow rate of water required by a sprinkler system may exceed that available from the water main and the sprinkler system may function inadequately. The British Standards Institute has been alerted to the possible problems involved in water supplies to domestic sprinklers. The Water Suppliers are represented in technical and policy discussions with the National Fire Sprinkler Association to develop suitable and safe systems.
Area of Interest: Notification
Topic: Details of notifiable work
Title: Notification of alterations – exemption for minor work
Clause Reference: Regulation 5
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: N02
Prior notification has to be given to the Water Supplier of proposed alterations or extensions of water systems in non-domestic premises (Regulation 5, Table, Item 2). However, for minor work on extensions and alterations to existing plumbing systems in non-domestic premises, the Water Supply Industry deems that the notification requirements of the Water Fittings Regulations and Byelaws 2000 (Scotland) will be satisfied, without prior notification being given, where the following requirements are met:
(i) The modification of any pipework is confined to extending or altering a pipe run to a maximum alteration of 3 metres, using pipe of no greater diameter than that of the pipe to which it is attached; and
(ii) The proposed repositioning or alteration of any existing fitting or appliance does not increase the backflow risk associated with it. The fitting or appliance must have adequate backflow protection, in compliance with the Regulations; and
(iii) No new fitting or appliance which is to be installed as part of the extension or alteration has a backflow risk greater than fluid category three nor is listed in item 4 of the Table in Regulation/Byelaw 5.
Where these requirements are not met in proposed extensions or alterations to existing plumbing systems in non-domestic premises, the notification will be required, as laid down in the Water Fittings Regulations and Byelaws 2000 (Scotland).
Area of Interest: Notification
Topic: Approved Contractors
Title: Approved Contractors exemption from Notification and Compliance Certificates.
Clause Reference: Regulation 5; Regulation 6(2); G15.7
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: N03
Regulations 5(1) and (2), an Approved Contractor does not have to give advanced notification of the proposed installation of certain work as follows:-
(a) the extension or alteration of a water system on any premises.
(b) a bidet with an ascending spray or flexible hose.
(c) a reduced pressure zone (RPZ) valve assembly or other mechanical device for protection against a fluid which is in fluid category 4 or 5.
However, it is a Water Industry requirement that prior notice of installation of an RPZ valve is given. For RPZ valves it is also a Water Industry requirement that details of the commissioning and testing of the valve must be provided to the Water Supplier. (See WRAS Information and Guidance Note 9-03-02, referred to in Government Guidance Clause G15.7). For all installations for which prior notification is required, Regulation 6(2) requires an Approved Contractor to send to the Water Supplier a certificate stating that the installation work carried out complies with the requirements of the Regulations. The Regulations therefore do not require certificates to be sent to the Water Supplier for installation by Approved Contractors of items (a), (b) and © above. However, Approved Contractors are advised to check the terms and conditions of their Scheme because some schemes still require these certificates to be sent to the Water Supplier.
Area of Interest: Relaxations
Topic: Consistency
Title: Seeking national Water Supply Industry support
Clause Reference: Regulation 11. Byelaw 11
Decision Date: October 2001
Reference: R01
A Water Supplier wishing to seek a Relaxation of the Regulations, (or Byelaws in Scotland,) should advise WRAS in advance so that the Industry as a whole can consider the proposal and, if appropriate, be seen by the Regulator, the Industry’s customers and by developers and installers to be promoting consistency by jointly supporting the relaxation.
Area of Interest: Requirements for Water Fittings
Topic: Interruption to water supply
Title: Electric water heaters - continuity of supply
Clause Reference: Regulation 4(1)(b)
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: RWF1
It is a matter for the EU Electrical Products Directive and associated Regulations and not primarily a matter of responsibility for the Water Supplier where an electric water heater connected to the mains water supply is damaged when the water supply is temporarily interrupted. Such interruptions, although rare, can occur and reference can be made to the requirement that "Every water fitting shall ….. be suitable for the circumstances in which it is used".
Area of Interest: Use of water
Topic: Fire sprinklers
Title: Provision of water for fire sprinkler systems in domestic premises
Clause Reference:
Decision Date: October 2000
Reference: UW01
Guidance provided by the Loss Prevention Council (LPC) supports the use of fire sprinkler systems for domestic premises. Under the Water Industry Act, Water Suppliers have a duty to provide water for fire fighting purposes, but its use for fire-fighting in domestic premises does not come under the normal provision of water supplied for domestic purposes.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Preventing contamination
Title: Standpipes
Clause Reference: Regulation 3(2)
Decision Date: June 2000
Reference: WQ01
The use of standpipes frequently gives rise to the problem of discoloured water. Water Suppliers may invoke Section 174 of the Water Industry Act 1991, “Interference with works etc” in instances of any misuse of a standpipe.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Preventing contamination
Title: Taste of TCP from flexible hoses
Clause Reference: Regulation 3(2)
Decision Date: June 2000
Reference: WQ02
House builders and developers are encouraged to install a single check valve on supplies to washing and dishwashing machines due to the problem, frequently encountered by customers, of a ‘TCP’ taste to water from both their cold and hot water taps, arising from the interaction of chlorine with unsuitable rubber flexible hoses.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Maintaining wholesomeness
Title: Chemical dosing equipment for maintaining water quality
Clause Reference: G26.1
Decision Date: October 2000
Reference: WQ03
Where equipment for continuous dosing of chemicals, such as chlorine dioxide, is proposed for use by owners or occupiers to maintain water supply quality in premises (e.g. to protect against the growth of Legionella bacteria), dosed water must be wholesome if used for drinking, cooking or food production purposes.
Where chlorine dioxide is to be used for this purpose, to ensure that dosed water is wholesome, the following conditions should be met by the operators of the equipment:
a) there should be evidence of the quality of the chlorine dioxide and its concentration e.g. use of chemicals with current DWI ‘Regulation 25’ approval;
b) there should be evidence of the effectiveness of the control of flow and chemical dosing device(s) i.e. evidence of the stability of the proportional control of chlorine dioxide against typical water flow rates that would be encountered in practice;
c) there should be evidence demonstrating that the 0.5 mg/l concentration of chlorine dioxide, chlorate and chlorite is not exceeded. This would require chemical analysis, for chlorine dioxide, chlorites and chlorates, of water samples from trial installations extending over several weeks.
d) there should be a programme for regular chemical analysis of chlorine dioxide, and, where significant background concentrations in the mains water supply justified it, by the measurement of chlorites and chlorates in the proposed installation.
Where these conditions are met, the chlorine dioxide dosing equipment is considered to be fluid category three and must have a suitable backflow protection for the connection feeding it.
If these conditions are not met, it is recommended that the Water Supplier should inform the owner and occupier that drinking water taps supplied directly off the supply pipe should be installed in convenient locations and clear instructions should be given that taps supplied with dosed water should not be used for drinking, cooking or food production purposes. In the event of reluctance by the owner or occupier of the premises to act accordingly, the Environmental Health Officer should be advised.
These conditions could be used as a model for acceptability of other types of chemical dosing equipment used for similar purposes.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Pressure testing and disinfection
Title: Changing premises from private water supplies to public supplies
Clause Reference: Regulation 2(1)
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: WQ04
If necessary on the grounds of possible contamination, in premises where a private water supply is to be replaced by a mains water supply, the plumbing system should be brought up to the legal requirements of the Water Fittings Regulations and then be pressure tested and, if necessary disinfected, before connection is made to the mains supply.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Contamination
Title: Preventing stagnation in a fire sprinkler system
Clause Reference: Regulation 3(2)
Decision Date: October 2002 (Revised October 2011)
Reference: WQ06
A domestic fire sprinkler system which does not contain additives of a design which incorporates at the end of the sprinkler pipework a WC – the flushing of which will address stagnation of water that would otherwise occur in the sprinkler ‘dead leg’ - does not contravene the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations. (An example of the design in question is provided in figure 1) (See link to Figure 1 below)
http://www.wras.co.uk/pictures/interpretations/wq06.jpg
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Responsibility for Water Quality
Title: Water supplies to dental chairs
Clause Reference: Regulation 2 (2)
Decision Date: September 2004
Reference: WQ07
A Water Supplier is not liable if secondary dosing equipment installed in premises fails or becomes defective. Responsibility for maintaining equipment to ensure the quality and safety of water supplies within the premises lies with the owner or occupier of the premises, even if Water Regulations consent for the installation of the dosing equipment has been granted by the Water Supplier.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Liability
Title: Dosing equipment - responsibility
Clause Reference: G27.1
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: WQ07
Dental chairs supplied from mains are categorised as a fluid category 5 risk. The water industry does not however consider water supplied to dental chairs as water supplied for domestic purposes, and the risk of contamination between chairs is not a matter for Regulations enforcement but is covered by codes of practice, design standards etc for the dental equipment and its use.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Maintaining wholesomeness
Title: Use of petroleum tapes for wrapping pipes and fittings
Clause Reference: G26.1
Decision Date: September 2010
Reference: WQ08
As plastic pipe and fittings are susceptible to permeation by organic compounds, such as the hydrocarbons present in the adhesive glues and mastics used in tapes for wrapping pipe and fittings, it is recommended that such products only be applied to plastic pipe if the pipe incorporates a protective aluminium layer or is pre-wrapped with aluminium foil prior to the wrap application.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Responsibility for Water Quality
Title: Children’s play equipment that uses water
Clause Reference: Regulation 2 (2)
Decision Date: June 2011
Reference: WQ09
Water supplied to play equipment is not water supplied for domestic purposes, and the suitability of the quality of the water in the play equipment or discharged from it is not a matter for water fittings regulation enforcement.
If the manufacturer, installer or operator of such equipment is concerned that the quality of the water in the equipment or discharging from it is unsuitable or is a risk to health of users, they are responsible for taking steps to ensure that either the water remains wholesome or appropriate warning signage identifying the risk or precautions necessary is in place. Warning signage needs to consider the type of users of the equipment.
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Disinfection
Title: Disinfection requirements for caravans
Clause Reference: G13.2
Decision Date: June 2011
Reference: WQ10
In a caravan site, caravans holiday homes (static caravans) fed by a privately owned distributing pipes are considered to be single occupancy dwellings and as such would only require disinfection in specific circumstances. (Refer to G13.2 for further information.)
Area of Interest: Water Quality
Topic: Fluid category
Title: Safety showers and eye wash baths
Clause Reference: Regulation 2 (2)
Decision Date: June 2011
Reference: WQ11
Water suppliers do not consider water supplied to safety showers and eye wash baths as water supplied for domestic purposes, and the suitability of the quality of the water in the equipment is not a matter for regulation enforcement.
BS EN 15154 requires water for these safety devices to be wholesome and supplied from a dedicated known clean source. Whist it is acceptable for safety showers and eye baths to be fed from the same storage cistern supplying other laboratory equipment it is recommended that they be fed via a dedicated distributing pipe.
If the same storage cistern is used to supply all equipment in a laboratory including safety equipment it is suggested that advice is sought regarding the risk of the cistern becoming contaminated by backflow from laboratory outlets.
Area of Interest: WCs
Topic: Warning pipes
Title: Internal warning pipes (overflows)
Clause Reference: G25.8
Decision Date: June & October 2000
Reference: WC01
The use of internal warning pipes (standing overflows) in WC flushing cisterns, such that overflowing water is discharged into the back of the WC pan, is accepted as an equally effective device to an external warning pipe.
This acceptance is subject to:-
(a) the cistern inlet valve being of a type which meets the performance requirements of the Regulators’ WC Specification; and
(b) inlet valves of a compact type (e.g. those manufactured to BS1212 Part 4) having a strainer fitted up-stream of the float operated valve to trap debris (swarf etc.) which might cause premature failure of the valve.
Area of Interest: WCs
Topic: Warning pipe
Title: WC cisterns - inappropriate use
Clause Reference: G25.8
Decision Date: June 2001
Reference: WC02
Disposal of condensate water via a WC cistern and internal warning pipe (overflow) to a WC pan could be mistaken for a warning discharge and is not acceptable.
Area of Interest: WCs
Topic: Flushing performance
Title: WC pans - on site test of flushing effectiveness
Clause Reference: G25.11
Decision Date: February 2002
Reference: WC03
Where there is the need to check the effectiveness of flushing of an already-installed WC which should meet the Regulators’ WC Specification, the Finnish Nordtest, Section 6.4.5A shall be used as an on-site test with the use, specifically, of Andrex toilet paper.
Details of the test may be obtained from the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme.
