What is WRAS? Where Does It Apply?

The majority of people who live and work in the UK take the efficiency, safety, and cleanliness of their water supply for granted. All we have to do is turn on the faucet, and we know that clean, safe water will flow. However, how do we know for sure that our water supply is safe, and clean?

The 26 water supply companies in the UK are members of the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS). It is a regulatory body whose mission is to "contribute to the protection of public health by preventing contamination of public water supplies and encouraging the efficient use of water." Upkeeping of lists of approved plumbers, products, suppliers, and materials are among the many services WRAS offers. Each of these is evaluated based on how well it complies with Scotland's Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations and Byelaws. According to these laws, a water fitting must be "of an appropriate quality and standard" and cannot result in waste, misuse, excessive consumption, or contamination of the water supply.

What does WRAS apply to?

Any water fitting that will be installed in the UK and carry or receive water from the public mains water supply must have WRAS approval. This usually covers any fixtures, pipes, etc. installed between the property line and the point of discharge (such as taps) within the property. The Drinking Water Quality Regulations apply to the area between the property line and the water main. While it is not illegal to purchase, sell, or install a product that is not WRAS approved, it is illegal to install it in a way that violates the bylaws and water regulations. The water regulations are applicable to all premises that receive a public water supply. The simplest method to guarantee complete adherence to these regulations is to purchase a product that has received WRAS approval. But please remember that in order for a product to receive full WRAS approval, installation must adhere to regulations even if it has the necessary approval. Because of this, we always advise using a licensed plumber for any installation that needs to be connected to a water supply.

Two types of WRAS approval

WRAS product approval - this holds true for complete items like showers, boilers, and valves. These products need to pass water quality and mechanical testing in order to be approved. When a product receives approval, it indicates that, if installed correctly, it complies fully with all applicable regulations.

WRAS material approval - This holds true for all non-metallic materials, including "O" rings and rubber sheeting. This kind of approval proves that the material or component won't contaminate the water by testing only for its effects on water quality.

How to gain WRAS approval?

Number of accredited testing and laboratory facilities located all over the UK can perform WRAS testing. For every product or material that is to be tested, a standardized application form must be filled out and submitted to the testing facility along with specimens of that product or material. After that, the testing facility will finish all necessary tests to receive WRAS approval. Following the outcome of the test results, WRAS will review them and determine whether or not to approve. After approval, the results are valid for five years, after which new testing will be necessary.

If you need WRAS inspection done instantly, without the hassle of going through all the procedures, we advise you to consult Online Leak Sealing. It is one of the reputed companies in the domain of WRAS services.

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