Today, 771 million people (1 in 10) across the globe lack access to safe water, 46% of people do not have access to basic sanitation, and nearly 1 million people die each year from water, sanitation, and hygiene-related diseases . The Water Supply Regulations help to ensure the safe and efficient supply of water across the UK. But the use of professional plumbing parts, properly installed and maintained, is crucial to upholding these standards. That’s where WRAS comes in.
What are the Water Supply Regulations?
The Water Supply Regulations cover both The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Scottish Water Byelaws. The regulations set out the legal requirements for designing, installing, operating, and maintaining plumbing systems, water fittings, and water-using appliances. Applicable to all premises provided with water by a public supplier, the regulations are designed to prevent the contamination of drinking water and stop its misuse and waste.
What is WRAS?
The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) is an advisory board established and funded by the UK’s water suppliers to promote compliance with the Water Supply Regulations.
As well as interpreting the legislation, WRAS also administers an approved plumber’s scheme. In addition, it provides a conformance mark that proves that a particular plumbing part or material complies with the standards set out by the regulations (if correctly installed).
WRAS approval is a quality standard accepted by every water supplier in the UK.
It is not illegal to install a product that is not WRAS approved. However, compliance with the Water Supply Regulations may still need to be proved. In addition, while it is not illegal to sell an unsuitable fitting, it is to install one. It is the installer’s responsibility to comply with the requirements and meet their legal requirements.
The growing importance of water efficiency
Health issues aside, water efficiency concerns due to climate change and a growing population mean that demand for WRAS approved products is increasing. As well as dealing with the quality of the UK’s water supply, the Water Supply Regulations also stop unnecessary water waste. WRAS approved products, when correctly fitted and used, help to prevent leaks, and ensure a robust plumbing system that stands the test of time.
WRAS approved products from STH Westco
Committed to playing our part, at STH Westco we ensure the products we supply have attained the highest levels of industry accreditation. Safe, energy-efficient, and fit for purpose, our ever-growing range of over 5,500 product lines include a wide selection of WRAS approved fixtures and fittings, providing total peace of mind for our customers.
