Ready for the RPZ Approved Installation Method (AIM)
An update of the installation requirements for RPZ valves is expected to be published this year. Water Industry Approved Installation Methods (AIMs) are approved by water companies who enforce the regulations and are recognised by the regulator, giving them special legal status under the Water Fittings Regulations and Byelaws.
The AIM is likely to introduce significant changes for testers and WRAS will be on hand to help with updates posted on the news section of the WRAS website.
To go hand-in-hand with an upcoming revision of the AIM a new RPZ tester sector scheme is proposed. This would provide a register of RPZ testers and discussions are ongoing with the various Approved Contractors’ Schemes to enable this to happen.
What will this mean?
- Formal recognition by the water industry for those who test RPZ valves
- Raising standards – as with all sector schemes, members will have to agree to terms and conditions and maintain minimum levels of public liability insurance
- Peace of mind for customers – knowing the tester is properly recognised and has minimum standards to adhere to.
To aid customers in finding an approved tester it is hoped WaterSafe will be able to list all RPZ testers from the new sector scheme.
RPZ training is also being updated with the industry committed to agreeing new Training and Accreditation requirements for testers and training organisations.
