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How and When to Chlorinate Your Supply Pipe

chlorinating and sampling for SLP Client - ongoing work including chlorination services and pressure testing.

How and When to Chlorinate Your Supply Pipe

    Chlorinating your supply pipe is essential for ensuring the water quality of your system is safe and compliant with UK standards. Whether you are installing new pipework, maintaining an existing system, or suspect contamination, understanding the how and when of chlorination can help protect both public health and your water infrastructure.

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    In this guide, we’ll explain the process, when chlorination is required, and why it’s crucial for maintaining water safety. We’ll also discuss a recent case study to highlight how our team ensures quality chlorination and sampling for our clients.

    What is Chlorination of Supply Pipes?

    Chlorination is a method of disinfecting water pipes by introducing a chlorine solution into the system. This process eliminates harmful bacteria and contaminants, ensuring that water remains safe for use.

    Chlorination is particularly important for supply pipes—those that deliver water from the main distribution system to buildings—as they can be susceptible to contamination during installation, repair, or periods of inactivity.

    Chlorination is more than just a safety measure; it’s a regulatory requirement for many situations, ensuring compliance with UK water safety standards such as BS 8558:2011.

    When is Chlorination of Supply Pipes Required?

    Chlorinating your supply pipe is mandatory in several circumstances to ensure water quality. These include:

    New Pipework Installation

    When installing new supply pipes, particularly those over 50mm in internal diameter or longer than 50 metres, chlorination is required before the system can be used.

    If there’s been potential exposure to contaminants such as sewage, animal intrusion, or chemical spills, chlorination is essential to disinfect the pipework.

    Pipes that have not been used for a long time may develop biofilms, which harbour bacteria such as Legionella. Chlorination removes these potential hazards before the system is brought back online.

    Transitioning from a private water supply to a public one requires chlorination to ensure the safety of the newly connected system.

    If your supply pipe has undergone any repairs or modifications, chlorination should be performed to prevent contamination from external elements introduced during the work.

    Failure to chlorinate under these conditions could result in unsafe water, posing health risks and potential legal consequences for non-compliance. If you’re in need of pipe testing services, or need pipelines chlorinating then look no further than PTS – get in touch today!

    The Chlorination Process: Step-by-Step

    It’s vital to work with professionals like us at Pipe Testing Services (PTS) who are trained in pipework chlorination methods compliant with BS 8558 standards. We’ll offer you a cost-effective solution, and can deal with any problems or issues you may be having with your water supply, or newly installed pipework.

    Case Study: Chlorinating and Sampling for an SLP Customer

    At PTS, we recently completed a large-scale chlorination and sampling project for one of our regular Self-Lay Provider (SLP) clients. The project involved pressure testing, chlorinating, and sampling over 150 metres of 125mm and 63mm mains.

    Our Approach

    Outcome

    Thanks to our rigorous procedures and state-of-the-art equipment, the project was completed to the highest standards, ensuring the safety of the water supply and compliance with UK regulations. Our client was pleased with the quick turnaround and the reliability of the chlorination process.

    dechlorination of pipelines - PTS on-site images.

    For a detailed breakdown of this project, visit our dedicated case study page.

    Why Choose PTS for Chlorinating Your Supply Pipe?

    At PTS, we are specialists in water safety, offering a comprehensive range of services designed to ensure your system is clean, safe, and fully compliant with UK standards. Our chlorination services come with:

    • Experienced Technicians – Our technicians are trained in the latest chlorination techniques and regulations to provide reliable and efficient services.
    • Compliance with UK Regulations – We ensure that all chlorination work adheres to BS 8558:2011 and other relevant UK regulations, offering peace of mind that your system is safe and compliant.
    • Quick Turnaround – Our team understands that project timelines are crucial to success, without proper organisation, complex jobs can quickly become a lengthy process. Our streamlined chlorination process ensures rapid completion without compromising on quality.

    Legal Consequences of Non-Compliance

    Non-compliance with chlorination regulations can lead to severe consequences, including:

    Refusal of Water Supply Connection

    Without proper chlorination and certification, local water authorities can deny connection to the public water system.

    The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and other UK laws require chlorination in certain scenarios. Failure to comply may result in hefty fines or legal action.

    Contaminated water poses significant public health risks, including the potential spread of waterborne diseases like Legionella or E. coli. Ensuring compliance protects the safety of those using the water system.

    Ensure Water Quality with Pipe Testing Services

    For reliable and compliant chlorination of your supply pipe, trust PTS to handle the entire process from start to finish. Our expert team ensures that your water system is safe, certified, and meets all UK standards.

    Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist

    Phone – 01922 451646

    Email – enquiries@pipetestingservices.co.uk

    Address – Unit 27 Birchbrook Industrial Estate, Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 0DJ