Why do RPZ valves need to be tested?
RPZ valves are used to protect drinking water supplies from contamination by high risk substances, such as carcinogenic chemicals.
Needless to say, everyone wants to ensure drinking water remains safe which is why water suppliers insist on regular testing to confirm RPZ valves are working properly. The method of testing, competency of those testing, equipment they must use and reporting test results, are all set out in a legal document, the RPZ AIM.
What’s changing?
From the 1st July for a test certificate issued by an RPZ tester to be acceptable the testing must be performed using equipment satisfying a minimum specification.
If you are responsible for RPZ valves, what should you do?
As we get closer to the 1st July ask your RPZ tester to confirm their equipment complies with the minimum specification and can test your valve – there are different types and they will be able to advise you.
If you would prefer independent confirmation, starting shortly WIAPS will be identifying members of its RPZ tester scheme which have, and don’t have, test equipment meeting this new requirement. It will also list whether the equipment can be used to test all valves or only some. This information can be found using the RPZ valve tester search on the WaterSafe and WIAPS websites.
If you are an RPZ tester, what do you need to do?
If your test equipment complies with the minimum specification and you are a member of either the SNIPEF or WIAPS RPZ tester schemes, contact them to confirm this.
If you are a member of these schemes and are uncertain or have questions about your test kit they should be able to assist.
If your test equipment doesn’t comply with this new requirement source a new one which does. There are a number of new UK distributors of test gauges which appear to satisfy this requirement.
Be aware WIAPS is planning to start providing information about its RPZ testers which have, and don’t have, test equipment meeting the minimum specification
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