Utilities Segments Introduction

Drinking Water (Potable Water) Pipe Networks

What are drinking water pipe networks?

• They are the system of pipes, tanks and associated components that convey potable water from treatment facilities to consumers' taps. These networks include valves, hydrants, pumps and connection points for system control and maintenance, meaning they allow operators to manage water flows, isolate sections and carry out repairs to keep the network operating safely and reliably.

• Systems are typically required to meet UK and international potable water regulations, including:

  • WRAS approval for materials and components in contact with drinking water

  • DWI Regulation 31 compliance for water quality assurance

  • Relevant British and European Standards, such as BS EN 12201 for polyethylene (PE) pipe systems and BS EN 10312 for stainless steel water pipes, where applicable

• Compliance with recognised industry standards is essential, as without the relevant approvals a manufacturer is not permitted to sell pipes as approved products

Non-Potable Water Pipe Networks

(All Other Water Applications)

• Non-potable water pipe networks are used where water is not intended for human consumption

• Common applications of these networks are across wastewater, drainage, environmental and agricultural sectors

• While non-potable networks must still meet regulatory standards, the requirements are less stringent than potable water systems, reflecting their application and risk profile

Typical Non-Potable Water Applications

• Wastewater and foul drainage systems for residential, commercial and industrial use

• Surface water and stormwater drainage, including highways and sports facilities

• Rainwater harvesting and reuse systems

• Irrigation networks for agriculture, landscaping and horticulture

• Hydroelectric and geothermal systems requiring reliable water conveyance

Standards & Compliance Considerations

• Non-potable water systems are commonly designed in line with British and European Standards, including:

  • BS EN 12201 for polyethylene (PE) pipe systems used in water conveyance

  • BS EN 752 for drainage and sewer systems outside buildings

  • BS EN 1610 for construction and testing of drains and sewers

• Material selection and system design focus on durability, hydraulic performance, chemical resistance and lifecycle value, rather than drinking water approval

• Gas pipe networks are used to safely transport methane, biomethane and, increasingly, hydrogen as part of the transition to lower-carbon energy systems

• These networks play a critical role in heating homes, fuelling industry and supporting decarbonisation strategies across the gas sector

• Due to the combustible and flammable nature of gas, all pipes, fittings, valves and jointing systems are subject to stringent regulatory and safety standards

Safety, Standards & Compliance

• Gas pipeline systems must comply with robust UK and international gas regulations, typically including:

  • GIS standards for gas distribution networks and components

  • BS EN 1555 for polyethylene (PE) pipe systems for the supply of gaseous fuels

  • UK Gas Safety (Management) Regulations (GSMR) governing the safe operation of gas networks

Installation & Operational Considerations

• Gas networks are typically installed and maintained by appropriately trained and accredited operatives. Operatives who can install water networks, may not have the ability to equally install gas networks.

• The requirement for specialist gas training and certification influences:

  • Approved contractor selection

  • Installation methodologies

  • Project planning and programme risk