Water Tank Cleaning and Down-Service Disinfection
Maintaining clean, hygienic water systems is crucial for safeguarding public health and ensuring compliance with UK water regulations. At Pipe Testing Services (PTS), we specialise in comprehensive water tank cleaning and down-service disinfection, providing industry-leading solutions to meet your needs.
Why Water Tank Cleaning and Disinfection Matter
Over time, water tanks can accumulate sediment, biofilm, and harmful bacteria such as Legionella. This build-up poses serious health risks and compromises water quality. Routine cleaning and disinfection ensure:
- Compliance with UK regulations, including HSG274 and ACOP L8.
- Prevention of waterborne diseases.
- Improved efficiency and lifespan of water systems.
- Peace of mind for building managers and occupants.
UK Regulations and Guidelines
Our services adhere to:
- The Health and Safety Executive’s HSG274 and ACOP L8.
- Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016.
- BS EN 806-5:2012 and BS 8558:2015 standards.
By ensuring compliance with these guidelines, PTS helps protect your water systems from contamination and regulatory penalties.
The PTS Water Tank Cleaning Process
Our structured approach guarantees thorough cleaning and disinfection, tailored to your water system’s needs.
Risk Assessment and Preparation
We begin by conducting a full risk assessment to identify potential hazards. Our trained technicians use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and ensure minimal disruption to building occupants.
Tank Inspection and Documentation
- Photograph tanks before and after cleaning.
- Inspect for signs of corrosion, scale, or structural damage.
- Document all findings to ensure compliance.
Tank Cleaning
- Drain and isolate the tank.
- Manually clean surfaces and remove debris with wet vacuums.
- Address structural issues, such as damaged linings or missing components.
Disinfection Procedure
- Apply a chlorine solution (typically 50mg/l) for effective microbial control.
- Ensure a minimum one-hour contact time.
- Flush the system to distribute the disinfectant, then neutralise any remaining chlorine.
Down-Service Disinfection
Extend disinfection to all connected pipework and outlets:
- Clean dead legs and infrequently used outlets.
- Flush and neutralise the system to maintain water quality.
System Recommissioning
- Flush the system until chlorine levels match the incoming mains water.
- Refill the tank and reconnect isolated components.
- Conduct post-disinfection testing to verify water quality.
Documentation and Reporting
We provide:
- Detailed cleaning and disinfection reports.
- Updated logbooks.
- Recommendations for ongoing maintenance.
Challenges in Water Tank Cleaning
Water tank cleaning in the UK presents a range of challenges, requiring specialised expertise and careful planning to address them effectively. These challenges impact different industries, from healthcare to manufacturing, making professional services essential.
Confined Space Hazards
Many water tanks are located in confined spaces that are difficult to access, such as basements or rooftop enclosures. These environments pose risks such as limited oxygen, poor ventilation, and restricted movement. Safely entering and working in these spaces requires technicians trained in confined space entry and rescue procedures, supported by proper equipment like gas monitors and safety harnesses.
Biofilm and Sediment Removal
Over time, water tanks accumulate biofilm, sediment, and debris, which can harbour harmful bacteria like Legionella. Removing these deposits thoroughly is critical but can be challenging without advanced cleaning techniques and equipment. Our team uses high-pressure washing systems and specialised vacuum tools to eliminate stubborn build-ups, ensuring tanks are completely free from contaminants.
Minimising Service Disruption
Maintaining a continuous water supply during cleaning is a major concern for clients in industries such as healthcare, hospitality, and manufacturing. Temporary water storage solutions and strategic scheduling help ensure minimal disruption to operations, preventing downtime that could affect patients, guests, or production lines.
Regulatory Compliance
UK regulations, such as the Health and Safety Executive’s HSG274 and ACOP L8, set strict standards for water hygiene. Complying with these guidelines involves meticulous documentation, regular testing, and precise cleaning methods. PTS ensures full compliance, providing detailed reports and updated logbooks to satisfy audit requirements.
Industry-Specific Needs
Different sectors face unique challenges when it comes to water tank cleaning:
- Healthcare Facilities: Hospitals and care homes rely on clean water systems to prevent infections and safeguard vulnerable populations. Routine cleaning reduces the risk of Legionella outbreaks and ensures compliance with stringent healthcare regulations.
- Hospitality and Leisure: Hotels, spas, and fitness centres need spotless water systems to protect guests and uphold their reputation. Regular maintenance prevents unpleasant odours, discoloured water, and potential health risks.
- Manufacturing and Industrial Sites: Factories and processing plants require high water quality to maintain product standards and equipment efficiency. Cleaning reduces sediment that can clog pipelines and disrupt operations.
- Education and Public Buildings: Schools and government facilities benefit from regular inspections and cleaning to ensure safe drinking water for students, staff, and visitors.
At PTS, our expertise and state-of-the-art equipment allow us to overcome these challenges, delivering efficient, compliant, and tailored services. We prioritise the unique needs of each client, ensuring uninterrupted operations and optimal water quality. Whether you manage a hospital, hotel, or industrial site, our comprehensive solutions protect your water systems and the people who depend on them.
Benefits of Choosing PTS
By partnering with Pipe Testing Services, you benefit from:
- Experienced Technicians: Trained in water hygiene and confined space operations.
- Advanced Equipment: Robotic cleaners, high-pressure washing systems, and approved disinfectants.
- Customised Plans: Tailored solutions for potable and non-potable water systems.
- Comprehensive Services: Including pipe testing, hydrostatic pressure testing, fusion welding, and chlorination.
- Ongoing Support: Consultation and maintenance plans to protect your water systems.
How Often Should Water Tanks Be Cleaned?
- Annual inspections are recommended for most water tanks.
- Six-month inspections are advised for tanks supplying drinking water.
- Cleaning frequency depends on inspection results and environmental factors such as hard water or sediment levels.
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and reduces the risk of contamination.
Advancements in Cleaning Technology
PTS leverages the latest technologies to enhance cleaning efficiency:
- Robotic systems for non-invasive cleaning of large tanks.
- Hydrogen peroxide disinfection for superior microbial control.
- High-pressure washing to eliminate stubborn deposits.
- Real-time monitoring to assess cleaning effectiveness.
Adjacent Services
In addition to Water Tank Cleaning and Down-Service Disinfection we offer a range of pipeline services.
- Hydrostatic Pressure Testing – We use pressurised water to verify the structural integrity of pipelines, identifying weak points and ensuring durability. This testing is essential for new installations and ongoing maintenance.
- Fusion Welding Services – Our fusion welding capabilities include both Butt Fusion and electro fusion and pipe fusion welding. These methods provide strong, leak-free joints for pipelines, critical for long-term reliability in high-pressure applications.
- Legionella Contractor Services and Legionella Remedial Works – Our team ensures water systems are safe and compliant with health standards. From chlorination to addressing Legionella risks, we help protect public health and maintain water quality.
- Water Tank Commissioning and Flow Surveys – We deliver accurate flow assessments and ensure that water storage systems meet operational standards. Our services include cleaning, disinfection, and certification to keep systems compliant and efficient.
By offering these services, our team at PTS (Pipe Testing Services) provides a holistic approach to pipeline and water system management. Whether it’s ensuring water safety or reinforcing pipeline durability, we have the expertise and tools to meet your requirements.
Why Choose Pipe Testing Services?
Ensure the safety and reliability of your water systems with Pipe Testing Services. Call us now to discuss your water tank cleaning and down-service disinfection needs – contact Pipe Testing Services:
- Phone: 01922 451646
- Email: enquiries@pipetestingservices.co.uk
- Address: Unit 27 Birchbrook Industrial Estate, Shenstone, Lichfield, Staffs, WS14 0DJ
We are committed to delivering reliable and reputable services to ensure the safety and compliance of your water systems. Contact us today to discuss your requirements or schedule a consultation. Our knowledgeable team is ready to assist you.