Code of Practice for Water

Infrastructure
Connections and Developer Services
Design and Construction Requirements for Self-Lay Developments
July 2020 (Revision 2)
Document IW-CDS-5020-03
IW-CDS-5020-03
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

SCOPE

This Code of Practice outlines acceptable typical design and construction details that
are required by Irish Water for the provision of water supply pipes and related
infrastructure in Self-Lay Developments which are to be connected to the Irish Water
Network. It shall be used in conjunction with the associated Design Risk Assessments
that have been developed which identify the risks that designers shall take into account
in the detailed design of the water supply pipes and related infrastructure to be
connected to the Irish Water Network. The pipes and related infrastructure to be put in
place within Developments shall comply fully with this Code of Practice. Ultimate
responsibility (including, but not limited to any losses, costs, demands, damages,
actions, expenses, negligence and claims) for the detailed design, construction and
provision of such pipes and related infrastructure shall rest entirely with the Developer,
his/her Designer(s), Contractor(s), or other related party. Irish Water assumes no
responsibility for and gives no guarantees, undertakings or warranties in relation to the
pipes and related infrastructure to be provided in accordance with this Code of Practice.

No part of the Code of Practice shall be reproduced or transmitted in any form or stored
in any retrieval system of any nature without the written permission of Irish Water as
copyright holder, except as agreed for use.

This Code of Practice shall be used in conjunction with current Connection and
Developer Services Standard Details. Standard Details can be found on the Irish Water
website at www.water.ie/connections.

Revision Log
Date Details of Revision Revision Author Approver
December 2016 Initial Issue 0 T’OC M’OD
December 2017 General Revision (See 1 T’OC M’OD
Appendix D)
July 2020 General Revision (See 2 T’OC M’OD
Appendix C)

i
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Background

Technical Documentation was developed by Irish Water’s Connection and Developer

Services which outlines the requirements for water services infrastructure within
Developments.

The Technical Documentation comprises Codes of Practice and Standard Details.

These provide Irish Water’s requirements to Developers in the provision of water
infrastructure that is to be installed by Self-Lay methods in Developments and that
would be connected to Irish Water’s networks and subsequently vested in Irish Water.

The Technical Documentation outlines design and construction requirements to ensure

consistency in the provision of materials, equipment, workmanship, etc. They will also
provide the basis for developers detailed design proposals for water supply
infrastructure, leading to the provision of infrastructure that is suitable for connection to
Irish Water’s networks and easy operation and maintenance.

The Technical Documents are based on best practice within the water industry. They
take account of the experience of Local Authorities in the provision of these services to
new Developments.

This document (IW-CDS-5020-03) comprises the Code of Practice for Water

Infrastructure and outlines design and construction for developers. It shall be read in
conjunction with its associated Design Risk Assessment (IW-CDS-5020-04).

The Standard Details for Water (IW-CDS-5020-01) and its associated Design Risk
Assessment (IW-CDS-5020-02) are published and available on the Irish Water website
at www.water.ie/connections

ii
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Glossary of Terms and Definitions 1

Part 1 – General 9

1.1 Introduction 9

1.2 Statutory Relevance 9

1.3 Options for Connection Installation 10

1.4 Connection Procedures 10

1.5 Protection of Water Quality 11

1.6 Responsibility of Irish Water 13

1.7 Application for a Conformance Certificate 13

1.8 Conformance Certificate 16

1.9 Connection of Development to Irish Water Network 17

1.10 Vesting 17

1.11 Defects Liability Period 18

1.12 Hygiene Requirements During Defects Liability Period & Remedial Work 19

1.13 Water Audit Prior to Defects Liability Period Termination 20

1.14 Final Inspection at Defects Liability Termination 21

1.15 Completion Certificate 21

1.16 Statutory and Other Consents 22

1.17 Fire Authority Liaison 22

1.18 Regulations 23

1.19 Standards 23

1.20 Civil Engineering Specification for the Water Industry (CESWI) 24

iii
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

1.21 Standard Details 24

1.22 Temporary Water Supply Connection for Construction Purposes 24

1.23 Extensions to Undeveloped Contiguous Areas 25

Part 2 – General Design Requirements and Submissions 26

2.1 Introduction 26

2.2 General Design Requirements 26

2.3 Design Submissions 27

2.4 Drawings, Calculations and Design Information 29

2.5 Hydraulic Modelling 31

2.6 General Minimum Requirements 32

Part 3 – Design Requirements 34

3.1 Compliance 34

3.2 Reliability and Design Objectives 34

3.3 Materials – General Requirements 35

3.4 Structural Design and Integrity – Specific Requirements 36

3.4 Layout of Works 37

3.6 Separation Distances 42

3.7 Sizing of Water Mains 43

3.7.1 General 43

3.7.2 Water Demand Calculations 44

3.8 Service Connections to Individual Premise –

Sizing and General Requirements 45

3.9 Materials Selection: Mains and Service Connections 47

3.10 Pipe Joints 49

iv
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.10.1 General 49

3.10.2 Jointing of Polyethylene Pipes 50

3.10.3 Auditing and Testing of Polyethylene Pipe Joints 50

3.11 Depth of Cover 53

3.12 Roadway/Footway Surface Reinstatement 54

3.13 Boosted Water Supplies 54

3.14 Boundary Boxes 56

3.15 Meters 57

3.15.1 General 57

3.15.2 Domestic Meters 58

3.15.3 Meters for Commercial Premises 59

3.15.4 Bulk Meters 59

3.16 Fittings 61

3.16.1 General 61

3.16.2 Sluice Valves 61

3.16.3 Butterfly Valves 62

3.16.4 Scour Valves 63

3.16.5 Hydrants (80mm) 64

3.16.6 Air Valves 65

3.16.7 Other Fitting Materials 67

3.17 Pressure Reducing/Sustaining Valves 68

3.18 Hydrant, Air Valve, Sluice Valve and Scour Valve Chambers 69

3.19 Water Meter Chambers 72

v
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.20 Pressure Reducing/Sustaining Valve Chambers 74

3.21 Scour Chambers 75

3.22 Washout Hydrants 76

3.23 Indicator Marker Plates and Posts 77

3.24 Warning Tape 77

3.25 Existing Utilities 78

3.26 Environmental Considerations 78

3.27 Working Near Existing Pipes (Notifications and Separation Distances) 80

3.28 Water Storage 81

3.29 Water Management and Conservation 83

Part 4 – Construction Requirements 84

4.1 Construction – General Requirements 84

4.2 Transportation, Storage, Handling and Use of Materials 85

4.3 Location of Other Utilities 86

4.4 Trench Widths 86

4.5 Trench Base 87

4.6 Anchor/Thrust/Support Blocks 87

4.7 Cleaning Pipes 88

4.8 Pipe Bedding, Haunch and Surrounds 89

4.9 Backfill 90

4.10 Testing and Commissioning 92

4.10.1 General 92

4.10.2 Cleansing of Pipes 92

vi
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

4.10.3 Pressure Testing 93

4.10.3.1 General 93

4.10.3.2 Testing of Ductile Pressure Pipelines 93

4.10.3.3 Testing of Polyethylene Pipelines 95

4.10.4 Swabbing after Testing 96

4.10.5 Disinfection 96

4.10.6 Disposal of Water 97

4.10.7 Flushing 98

4.11 Water Quality Sampling and Testing 98

4.12 Connection to the Water Network 99

4.13 Final Flushing of Water Mains 100

4.14 Service Connection to Water Supply Distribution System 100

4.14 Final Documents 102

4.15 Repairs, Hygiene Requirements 103

Part 5 – Booster Pumping Stations, Kiosks and Ancillary Works 104

5.1 Introduction 104

5.2 Booster Pump Station – Design Submission Requirements 105

5.3 Booster Pump Stations – Technical Requirements 105

5.4 Booster Station Pump Types and their Requirements 106

5.5 Booster Station Testing and Commissioning 107

5.6 Booster Station Pump Efficiency 107

5.7 Booster Station Pressure Control 108

5.8 Flow Metering 108

vii
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

5.9 Kiosk Requirements 108

5.10 Structure Enclosures 111

5.11 Cable Ducts and Chambers 111

5.12 General Electrical Requirements 113

5.13 Cables 114

5.14 Cable Installation 116

5.14.1 General 116

5.14.2 Glanding 116

5.14.3 Termination 116

5.14.4 Junction Boxes 116

5.14.5 Identification of Wiring 117

5.15 Control Panels – General Requirements 117

5.16 Form 4 Control Panel Compartment – Additional Requirements 118

5.16.1 Incoming Section 119

5.16.2 Control Circuit Supply 119

5.16.3 Motor Starter Compartments 120

5.17 Earthing and Bonding 120

5.17.1 Earth Electrodes 120

5.17.2 Bonding 121

5.18 Control Philosophy 121

5.19 Testing 121

5.20 Abnormal Operation 122

5.20.1 Power Failure 122

viii
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

5.20.2 Pump Failure 122

5.21 Telemetry 122

5.22 Dial Out Alarm 123

5.23 Operation and Maintenance Manual 124

Appendix A Specification for Boundary Box and Fittings 125

Appendix B Standards Referenced in the Water Code of Practice 129

Appendix C Amendments Associated with change from

Revision 1 (December 2017) to Revision 2 (July 2020) 136

ix
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Glossary of Terms and Definitions

In this document, the following terms and definitions apply -

“the Act” means the Water Services Act 2007 – 2014;

“Accessories” means all Manholes, Chambers, tanks, fittings, valves, or any

machinery or other apparatus which is designed or adapted for use in connection with
the use or maintenance of the Works;

“Applicant” means a Developer who has made an application for a connection to Irish
Water’s Network;

“Application to Connect” means an application by applicant Developer for a

connection to Irish Water’s Network;

“Backfill” means suitable material that is used to replace excavated material around a
structure or that is used in a pipe trench to replace excavated material above the
granular surround of the pipe to the underside of the roadway/footway construction or
the underside of the top-soil reinstatement in a green area as set out in this Code of
Practice;

“Boundary” means the outer edge of the curtilage of the Developer’s Premises or the
Developer’s Development;

“Boundary Box” means an on line, below ground proprietary enclosure containing a

stop valve, a water meter and associated fittings forming part of the Service Connection
and located normally at the public side of a Curtilage Boundary.

“Brownfield” means an area that has already been developed;

“Building Regulations” mean the Building Control Acts 1990 to 2014 and all
subordinate legislation and regulations made pursuant to the said Acts including,
without limitation the Building Control Regulations 1997 to 2015, the Building
Regulations 1997 to 2017 and relevant codes of practice, and any amendment,
update or replacement or repeal thereof;

“Business Day” means every day other than a Saturday or Sunday or bank or public
holiday in Ireland;

“Capital Investment Plan (CIP)” means the document outlining a programme of

schemes and contracts identified by Irish Water for advancement to various stages in a
specific time period and published by Irish Water as required under Section 34 of the
Water Services (No 2) Act 2013 which sets out and particularises the investment in
Water Services infrastructure that Irish Water considers necessary for the effective
performance by it of its functions in a particular period;

1
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

“Chamber” means an enclosed structure which may contain Pipes, Accessories and
related fittings including meters, etc.;

“Chartered Engineer” means a professional engineer with a registered professional

title of Chartered Engineer who is a members of Engineers Ireland or a professional
engineer with the same status as the professional engineering titles used in other
countries and who has experience in the provision of water services infrastructure;

“Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU)” means the body established

pursuant to Section 8 of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999, formerly the Commission
for Energy Regulation (CER) as amended;

“Completion Certificate” means a written certificate issued by Irish Water to the

Developer at the end of the Defects Liability Period in accordance with the Connection
Agreement;

“Conformance Certificate” means a written certificate issued by Irish Water to the

Developer following satisfactory completion of construction, inspection and
commissioning of the Works and the provision of the Final Documentation pursuant to
this Code of Practice in accordance with the Connection Agreement;

“Connection” means the physical connection to the Network to facilitate the provision
of Water Services to the Developer’s Development;

“Connection Agreement” means a written agreement entered into between the

Developer and Irish Water facilitating the connection of the Water and Wastewater
Services Infrastructure to the Network(s) and setting the commercial and technical
terms governing the Connection;

“Connection Application” means the application submitted by the Developer to Irish

Water in relation to the Service Connection(s), as included in the Connection Offer;

“Connection Offer” means the conditional offer letter issued to the Developer by Irish
Water relating to the connection of the Water and Wastewater Services Infrastructure to
the Network(s) and which details the connection terms and conditions that are offered to
the Developer;

“Connection Point(s)” means the location or locations to be determined by Irish

Water (which may be outside the boundary to the curtilage of the Development) at
which the Water & Wastewater Services Infrastructure is to be connected to the
Waterworks (where, as specified in the Connection Offer, the Developer requires
connection to the Waterworks) or the Wastewater Works (where, as specified in the
Connection Offer, the Developer requires connection to the Wastewater Works) (via
the Service Connection(s)). Connection Points may differ for Waterworks and
Wastewater Works;

2
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

“Connection Works” means the permanent and temporary works and services to be
performed by or on behalf of Irish Water in the acquisition, design, procurement,
construction, and installation of the Connection Facilities, and the obtaining of permits,
and all Requisite Consents and the tie-in and commissioning of a Connection Point(s)
in accordance with the requirements of this Connection Agreement;

“Construction Regulations” means the Safety Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005,
the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (General Application) Regulations 2007 to
2016 as amended, the Safety Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations
2013 as amended and any guidance requirements issued from time to time from the
Health and Safety Authority;

“Customer” means a Developer who intends to provide Works for housing, mixed use
or industrial/commercial Development and who intends to or has applied to enter into a
Connection Agreement or has entered into a Connection Agreement;

“Curtilage” means an area of land immediately surrounding a building or group of

building structures which is used for the enjoyment of such building, group or building
structures;

“Deed of Grant of Easement” means the Deed(s) of Grant of Wayleaves and

Easements referred to in the Connection Agreement;

“Defects Liability Period” means a minimum period of 12 months or such other period
as may be specified by Irish Water in the Connection Agreement, between the issue of
the Conformance Certificate and the issue of a Completion Certificate during which the
Developer is responsible under the Connection Agreement for the cost of rectification of
any defects in or connected to the Works;

“Defects Report” means a list of correction works that is issued with the Conformance
Certificate that Irish Water’s field engineers have identified and which require
remediation by the Developer;

“Developer” means the person or entity to whom the Connection Offer is addressed
and who has entered into the Connection Agreement with Irish Water;

“Development” means the housing or housing/mixed use or industrial/commercial

development located at the address set out in the Connection Offer and identified in the
map set out in the Connection Offer, including the Premises, the Water and Wastewater
Services Infrastructure to be constructed pursuant to the Connection Agreement and all
ancillary infrastructure relating thereto;

“Distribution System” means a pipe and its related fittings, that is used or to be used
as the case may be to convey water into or through one or more Premises (including

3
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

any related internal or external taps) excluding a Service Connection as defined below,
and also excluding where it is taken in charge by Irish Water;

“Domestic Use” means Water Supply used for the day to day domestic requirements
including drinking, washing and sanitation;

“Easement” means a legal right or interest over a person’s real property for a specific
purpose;

“Final Documents” means the suite of documents as set out in Section 1.7 of this
Code of Practice;

“Fire Authority” means the relevant Local Authority exercising its Fire Authority
functions;

“Fire Flow” means the water flow required for fire fighting purposes;

“Greenfield” means an area that has not previously been developed;

“Irish Water” means Irish Water (Uisce Eireann), a designated activity company
incorporated in Ireland (company registration number 530363) and having its registered
office at Colvill House, 24-26 Talbot Street, Dublin 1, Ireland;

“Local Authority” means the County Council or City Council (as defined in the Local
Government Act 2001) responsible for the functional area within which the Developer’s
Premises is located and which is referred to in the Connection Offer;

“Manhole” means a large Chamber on a Sewer which facilitates human access

to/egress from and safe working space at Pipe level;

“Network” means the Irish Water owned and controlled Water infrastructure;

“Network(s)” means the Waterworks and/or the Wastewater Works, as applicable

and specified on the face of the Connection Offer, and any related lands, which are
owned by, vested in, controlled or used by Irish Water;

“PRA Compliant Map” means ordinance survey plans, suitable for registration of any
Deed of Grant of Wayleaves and Easements relating to property intended to be taken
in charge by the Local Authority and the Water & Wastewater Services Infrastructure
to be vested in Irish Water together with all easements relating thereto suitably
identified by the relevant symbols and/or colours designated by the Property
Registration Authority;

“Pipe” includes—
(a) any Water Main, Service Connection, drain, channel, culvert, drainage pipe, and
(b) any system of such pipes, accessories and related fittings, including meters,

4
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

that is used, designed or intended to be used to collect, store, distribute or measure

water;

“Premises” means any premises within the Development which are specified or
referred to in the Connection Offer and includes any part of any public or private
building, vessel, vehicle, structure or land (whether or not there are structures on the
land and whether or not the land is covered with water), and any plant or related
Accessories on or under such land, or any hereditament of tenure, together with any
out-buildings and Curtilage and which is:

(a) receiving Water Services; or

(b) specified in the Connection Application; or

(c) a Premises deemed to be a Premises by Irish Water; or

(d) such other Premises as may be notified by the Customer to Irish

Water and accepted by Irish Water from time to time,

but does not include land which is a Public Road, a road which is the subject of an order
under Section 11 of the Roads Act 1993 or a road which has been taken in charge by a
Local Authority pursuant to a non-statutory Local Authority Taking in Charge scheme;

“Premises Pipe Work” means the pipe, related fittings and associated accessories to
be laid by the Developer within the boundary of a Premises in accordance with Relevant
Standards, Requisite Consents and Applicable Laws and the Distribution System (if
connecting to the Waterworks) and Drains (if connecting to the Wastewater Works), to
be used to connect the Premises with the Water & Wastewater Services Infrastructure;

“Public Road” means a road over which a public right of way exists and the
responsibility for the maintenance of which lies on a Road Authority;

“Quality Assurance Folder” means a document that is developed and retained by the
Developer on site to include information about on-site quality assurance records of the
Works which will be updated as required and shall be made available to the Irish Water
field engineers on request for inspection and which can be used to facilitate the collation
of the Final Documents;

“Regulator” means where applicable all present and future regulatory bodies having
regulatory oversight over Irish Water including, but not limited to, the Commission for
Regulation of Utilities, the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of
Planning Housing Local Government, the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner
and/or any other statutory body or regulatory authority which regulates on an on-going
basis or from time to time the business or operations of Irish Water;

“Relevant Standards” means the Codes of Practice and Standard Details set out in
the Connection Offer;

5
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

“Required Security” means the financial security required by Irish Water, as

specified in the Connection Offer;

“Requisite Consents” means all necessary permissions, consents, approvals,

licenses, easements, certificates and permits as may be necessary for the Developer
to lawfully commence, carry out, maintain and complete its obligations pursuant to this
Connection Agreement;

“Rising Main” means a Water Main through which water is pumped and conducted
under pressure;

“Road Authority” means the relevant Local Authority or Transport Infrastructure

Ireland (TII) or successor exercising its road authority function;

“Security” means a Surety in the form of a Bond under the Major Water and
Wastewater Connection Agreement and a Self-Lay Surety under a Self-Lay Connection
Agreement;

“Self-Lay Works” means all works to be carried out by the Developer in connection
with the construction of the Water & Wastewater Services Infrastructure, the Premises
Pipe Work (which includes the Distribution System and the Drains) and any related
works required to provide Water Services to the Premises within the Development,
including:

(a) the provision, installation, testing and commissioning of the Water &
Wastewater Services Infrastructure within the boundary of the Development;
and

(b) the provision, installation, testing and commissioning of the Premises Pipe
Work within the boundary to the curtilage of the Premises necessary to
connect the Premises, Distribution System (if connection is to Waterworks) and
Drain(s) (if connection is to Wastewater Works) to the Water & Wastewater
Services Infrastructure.

These works shall be approximately in the position and at the levels indicated on
drawing or drawings in the Specification and in accordance with the design that has
been submitted with the Connection Application;

“Service Connection” means a water supply pipe or a drainage pipe, together with any
Accessories and related fittings, extending from a Waterworks or Wastewater Works to
the outer edge of the boundary of the Development, and used, or to be used as the
case may be, for the purpose of connecting the Water and Wastewater Services
Infrastructure with the Waterworks and/or the Wastewater Works (as the case may be);

6
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

“Structure” means any building, erection, structure, excavation, or other thing

constructed, erected, or made on, in or under any land, or any part of a structure so
defined, and, where the context so admits, includes the land on, in, or under which the
structure is situated;

“Taking in Charge” means the process for taking infrastructure into the sole control
and responsibility of a Local Authority pursuant to Section 180 of the Planning and
Development Act 2000;

“TII” means Transport Infrastructure Ireland

“Vesting” is the mode by which the ownership of non-real property water services
infrastructure transfers to Irish Water pursuant to the requirements of the Connection
Agreement between the Developer and Irish Water.

“Water Connection Point” means the point of connection of the Developer’s Works to
Irish Water’s Network, which shall be at the boundary to the curtilage of the
Development, where such connection is completed by Irish Water;

“Water Network” means the network of pipes and accessories and all other associated
physical elements used to deliver water from a supply source or reservoir to the
Developer and any related land, which is owned by, vested in, controlled or used by
Irish Water;

“Water & Wastewater Services Infrastructure” means (where according to the

Connection Offer connection is to be made to the Waterworks) the water supply
pipework and/or (where according to the Connection Offer connection is to be made to
the Wastewater Works) the Wastewater collection pipework and all related fixtures,
fittings and accessories to be constructed and laid by the Developer within the
Development, as applicable, pursuant to this Connection Agreement, including all
connections and pipework extending to the outer boundary of any individual Premises
but excluding any Premises Pipe Work;

“Water Main” means water supply pipe owned by or vested in Irish Water and does not
include pipes fittings and appliances to which the terms “Service Connection” or
“Distribution System” apply;

“Water Services” has the meaning assigned to it by Section 2 of the Water Services
Act 2007 and means all services, including the provision of water intended for human
consumption, which provide storage, measurement, treatment or distribution of surface
water, ground water, or wastewater collection, storage, measurement, treatment or
disposal, with the exceptions as outlined in the Water Services Act;

“Water Services Acts” means the Water Services Act 2007 to 2014;

7
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

“Wholesome Water” means water complying with the European Communities

(Drinking Water) Regulations 2007 and subsequent Amendments and which is fit for
domestic consumption, sometimes referred to “potable water”;

“Works” means, for the purpose of this Code of Practice, the water supply pipework
element of the Water and Wastewater Services Infrastructure which are to be
connected to the Irish Water Network and including all related fittings and accessories
to be constructed and laid by the Developer within the Development including all
connections and pipework extending to the outer boundary of any individual Premises
but excluding the Premises Pipe Work;

8
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Part 1 – General
1.1 Introduction

This Code of Practice outlines Irish Water’s technical requirements for the design,
construction and commissioning of the Works (the water supply pipework element of the
Water and Wastewater Services Infrastructure) for housing and industrial/commercial
Developments, which is to be vested by Irish Water. This Code of Practice will be kept
under review and the latest edition is available on the Irish Water website, at
www.water.ie/connections. The reader should ensure that they are using the most up to
date Revision of this Code of Practice.

It is important that the Developer consults with Irish Water on all technical matters
regarding the provision of the Works for proposed Developments as early as possible.
This can be done by engaging in a Pre-Connection Enquiry process as outlined in the
Irish Water Guide to Connect which is available on the Irish Water website, at
www.water.ie/connections.

Failure to comply with these Codes of Practice may result in Irish Water declining to
allow the Works to be connected to the Network and/or the refusal of Irish Water to vest
or adopt the Works.

This Code of Practice covers the provision by the Developer of new Works which is to
be connected to the Irish Water Network and should not be used as a guidance
document for all Water related construction. In these cases the appropriate technical
standards and guidance documents should be used.

The Developer shall obtain all the necessary Requisite Consents and other permissions
for the proposed Development, including the Works.

It should be noted that this Code of Practice relates to Works and Water Main sizes of
350mm diameter and below. Larger diameter Works and Water Main sizes are outside
the scope of this document.

1.2 Statutory Relevance

The Water Services Act 2007 is the primary legislation governing Water Services in
Ireland. It is a broad ranging piece of legislation concerning the supply of water for both
domestic and non-domestic use and the collection and treatment of wastewater.

The Water Services Act 2013 provided for the establishment of Irish Water in March
2013. It was established as a semi state company as a subsidiary of Bord Gais and
subsequently under Ervia. The Water Services Act 2013 also gave Irish Water and the
Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) powers to prepare for the transition of
water services from Local Authorities to Irish Water. Irish Water is responsible for Water
Services previously provided by 34 Local Authorities. The Water Services Act 2013 also

9
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

provided for the commencement of a metering programme and the installation of meters
on domestic Service Connections.

The Water Services Act (No2) 2013 was enacted in December 2013 and provided for
the transfer of water services functions from the Local Authorities to Irish Water from
January 1st 2014. The Water Service Act also provided for the transfer of assets and
certain liabilities related to water services from Local Authorities to Irish Water.

1.3 Options for Connection Installation

Two Main options will be available to the Developer for the installation of the Works as
follows:

1.3.1 Developer undertakes the design and construction of the Works (Self-Lay); or
1.3.2 Developer undertakes design of the Works and subsequently an Irish Water
contractor undertakes its construction (Irish Water Lay),

This Code of Practice deals with the provision by the Developer of the Works
which are to be connected to the Irish Water Network.

1.4 Connection Procedure

The steps that Irish Water will utilise for the Works comprises:

1.4.1 Pre-Connection Enquiry (Optional) (This is mandatory for Developments

that avail of the Planning and Development (Strategic Housing
Development) Regulations 2017 (SI 271 of 2017) process);
1.4.2 Design Submission;
1.4.3 Connection Application;
1.4.4 Connection Offer (followed by acceptance and payment);
1.4.5 Construction Stage (including Irish Water supervision, inspection, etc.);
1.4.6 Commissioning Stage (including infrastructure documentation, inspection,
etc.);
1.4.7 Connection of infrastructure to Irish Water assets (on issue of a
Conformance Certificate);
1.4.8 Vesting;
1.4.9 Defects Liability Stage;
1.4.10 Completion (on issue of a Completion Certificate

The Pre Connection Enquiry and Connection Application Stages are outlined in greater
detail in the Irish Water Guide to Connect which is available on the Irish Water website,
at www.water.ie/connections/. Specific information is required with the Connection
Application as outlined in Section 2.3 and Section 2.4 below. A Connection Agreement
is required in all cases before Irish Water will provide a connection to its Network(s).

10
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

1.5 Protection of Water Quality

Irish Water has a statutory obligation to provide Wholesome Water as outlined in

Statutory Instrument 122 of 2014, European Union (Drinking Water) Regulations 2014.

The Developer undertaking the Works shall:

1.5.1 adhere to all appropriate hygiene procedures to ensure that the

infrastructure installed is fit for use as water supply works for the delivery
of wholesome or potable water, fit for human consumption;
1.5.2 where an employer is aware of any person employed on the Works known
to have a waterborne disease or gastric disorder, the employee shall
immediately cease involvement in the installation of the Works and shall
not return until granted a medical clearance;
1.5.3 ensure that all materials and products in contact with water intended for
human consumption shall achieve compliance with Statutory Instrument
122 of 2014, European Union (Drinking Water) Regulations 2014, and
shall be:
 included in the latest “List of Approved Products for use in Public
Water Supply in the United Kingdom” published by the Drinking
Water Inspectorate (DWI) for England and Wales. Documentary
evidence that the substance or product has been specifically
approved under the DWI system, or equivalent approval system
shall be provided to Irish Water for acceptance; or
 listed in the current edition of the Water Fittings and Materials
Directory published by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme
(WRAS). To demonstrate compliance under this scheme, a letter
from WRAS shall be provided outlining the scope of the approval.
1.5.4 ensure that pipework, materials, fittings and installations used in
connection with the Distribution System and use of water within the
Curtilage of the premises should also be suitable for conveyance of water
fit for human consumption;
1.5.5 ensure that the water Distribution System has been disinfected, pressure
tested and water samples taken and the results of which have indicated
that the Main is suitable for conveying water intended for human
consumption.

Installation, testing and commissioning (flushing, cleaning, disinfection, scouring, etc.) of

the Works shall be carried out and water quality tests undertaken prior to connection to
the Irish Water’s Network. If a water sample taken prior to the final connection does not
meet the parametric standards laid down in Statutory Instrument 122 of 2014, European
Union (Drinking Water) Regulations 2014, a new sample shall be taken and tested. A
connection shall not be provided until the bacteriological tests are satisfactory. If the
connection is not made within 14 calendar days of the sample date which yielded a
satisfactory result, a new sample shall be taken and tested and the disinfection process
repeated, if required. The 14-day period may, in exceptional circumstances, be

11
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

extended to no more than 28 days subject to a comprehensive risk assessment and

only with the express written approval of and authorised person in Irish Water. .

Service Connections shall only be made once the supply pipework has been confirmed
to have passed the sampling tests indicating compliance with Statutory Instrument 122
of 2014, European Union Drinking Water Regulations 2014 (the DWRs).

During construction, the Developer and his contractor/sub-contractor shall be mindful

that any contamination of a water supply could create dangers to public health and in
this respect every precaution shall be taken to prevent contamination.

The Developer and his contractor/sub-contractor shall:

1.5.6 arrange for all personnel operating in and around the Development to be
screened by a medical facility for all water transmittable diseases and
maintain records of these screenings, no person shall be allowed to
commence work in or around the Water Main installation works until
screenings are completed and the successful results, as issued by a
medical advisor, are provided to Irish Water.
1.5.7 ensure that operatives, while working on potable water supply systems,
have completed a recognised Drinking Water Supply Hygiene Course.
(The Local Authorities Services National Training Group (LASNTG), Water
Services Training Group offers a training course, leading to a certificate
award, on drinking water supply hygiene for water services personnel and
contractor staff who work with water services.)
1.5.8 ensure that staff working on water supply infrastructure have a copy of
Drinking Water Supply Hygiene Course certificate at all times while on the
site installing or repairing the water mains and present it to Irish Water
personnel on request.

If any staff employed by the contractor/sub-contractor contracts illness, such as infective

jaundice, gastro-enteritis, persistent diarrhoea or prolonged unexplained fevers, the
employee shall immediately cease involvement in the installation of the works and shall
not return until granted a medical clearance, This must be reported through the
Developer to Irish Water immediately.

Infected people will not be permitted to work on the activities relating to Water Main,
water service installation or subsequent repair works of this infrastructure. Infected
people will not be allowed to enter the water installation works site without first obtaining
authorisation from an appropriate medical authority.

The Developer’s contractor/sub-contractor shall ensure that he has sufficient chlorine

wipes available at all times to maintain an appropriate level of cleanliness for his tools,
equipment, pipe, fittings, etc. All fittings shall be kept within sealed wrappings and must
not be stored on the floor of vans or warehouses at any time.

12
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

When the Developer’s contractor/sub-contractor suspects that a contamination incident

has occurred, he shall notify Irish Water immediately and the necessary action will be
determined.

1.6 Responsibility of Irish Water

Pursuant to the Water Services Act (WSA), Irish Water does not have maintenance or
renewal responsibilities for private internal Distribution Systems or Service Connections
located within the boundary to the Curtilage of individual Premises. Irish Water has a
responsibility for supplying Wholesome Water to the boundary to the Curtilage of
Premises. Where the quality of drinking water does not meet the prescribed standards
set out in the DWRs due to the internal Distribution System, Irish Water will not be in
breach of its obligations. In this regard, Irish Water is obliged to ensure that:

1.6.1 action is taken promptly to ensure that the internal Distribution System is
restored to such condition as to no longer be a cause of (or a risk of) non-
compliance with the DWRs; and,
1.6.2 the internal Distribution System is restored to a standard necessary for
compliance with the DWRs.

Irish Water is not obliged to carry out works to restore the integrity of the Distribution
System and may issue directions to the Premises owner in relation to 1.6.1 and 1.6.2
above to require remedial works to be carried out to the internal Distribution System in
accordance with Section 43 of the WSA 2007, where an internal Distribution System or
a Service Connection presents a risk to:

1.6.3 human health;

1.6.4 the environment
1.6.5 the reasonable conservation of water;
1.6.6 the proper and effective management of water services; or
1.6.7 permits the infiltration or exfiltration of water or wastewater.

The owner of the internal Distribution System or Service Connection within the Curtilage
Boundary is required to keep such pipes in good order and repair and may be required
by Irish Water to carry out such works as Irish Water considers necessary for the
protection of public health and/or water conservation.

The responsibility for the maintenance of the water supply service connections from the
Water Network to the Premises is outlined on the Irish Water website, www.water.ie and
in the Pipe Maintenance Responsibility Diagrams included therein.

1.7 Application for a Conformance Certificate

The level of site inspection and auditing carried out by Irish Water during the installation
of the Works will depend on whether the Developer uses his own contractors to carry

13
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

out works (Self-Lay) or the Developer uses Irish Water’s Regional Contractors to
construct the Works (Irish Water Lay) (See Section 1.3 above).

Irish Water’s field engineers will undertake final site inspections on the Works in line
with the Quality Assurance Field Inspection Requirements attached to the Connection
Agreement during and throughout the construction of the Works. The Developer’s site
staff shall retain on the site of the Works a Quality Assurance Folder to include
information on, as well as on-site quality assurance records of the Works installation.
The document shall be updated as required and made available on request to the Irish
Water field engineer for inspection. This document shall be used to facilitate the
collation of the Final Documents as referred to below. Final site inspections will be
carried out after the submission by the Developer of an application for the issuing of a
Conformance Certificate. The Conformance Certificate is a document that will be
issued to the Developer by Irish Water indicating compliance of the Works with Irish
Water’s requirements following:

1.7.1 Inspection of the constructed infrastructure confirming that it is constructed

in accordance with the Code of Practice and Standard Details. (If minor
corrections are required to the infrastructure (snags) a ‘Defects Report’
will be issued with the Conformance Certificate outlining these minor
defects); and
1.7.2 The Developer’s submission of Final Documents and Irish Water
indicating satisfaction with same following their inspection.

The issuing of a Conformance Certificate marks the commencement of the Defects

Liability Period.

The Final Document shall compromise at least but not limited to the following suite of
documentation:

1.7.3 Confirmation by a Chartered Engineer in writing that the Works has been
installed in accordance with the design submitted in the Connection
Application;
1.7.4 Confirmation by a Chartered Engineer in writing that the Works has been
installed in accordance with this Code of Practice and Standard Details;
1.7.5 Confirmation by a Chartered Engineer in writing indicating that the Works
have undergone appropriate on-site testing, off-site testing and
commissioning and provision of associated test result certificates. The
requisite site tests for the Works include, but are not limited to, the
following:
 Pressure Tests on Ductile Iron Water Mains (if appropriate) with a
hard copy printout from the data logger as proof of the outcome of
the test;
 Pressure Test Records of polyethylene pipes (if appropriate) with a
hard copy printout from the data logger (in the required format) of
the relaxation curve as proof of the outcome of the test.

14
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

 Testing completion results of Pumping Plant (if appropriate);

 Disinfection of Water Mains (including cleaning, scouring, swabbing
and disposal of disinfection water);
 Commissioning testing of Works including water quality sampling
and testing of water from the commissioned works;
 A printout of the joint details, with a GPS location of each joint;
1.7.6 “As-Constructed” drawings and records of the installed Works in hard and
soft copy (to be delivered to the Irish Water field engineers) in accordance
with Sub-Section 1.7.15 below;
1.7.7 “As-Constructed” record to be included in the drawings of service pipe
installation completion (including link to House Numbers within the
Development);
1.7.8 A Safety File in accordance with the current Safety and Health
Construction Regulations;
1.7.9 Operation and Maintenance Manuals for pumping plant (if such provided)
including full pump details, performance curves and power ratings,
estimate of energy use, parts replacement schedule, maintenance
requirement (as well as estimated costs of these), etc., and all warranty
documentation for the installed equipment as well as drawings of the pump
station;
1.7.10 Deeds of Grant of Easement and associated PRA Compliant Map(s) in
accordance with the Connection Agreement;
1.7.11 Proof of ownership of the Development in the form of Deed/Solicitor letter;
1.7.12 Confirmation of compliance with a Fire Safety Officer Report;
1.7.13 Confirmation by a Chartered Engineer of compliance with the Building
Regulations and the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations, in
particular evidence of compliance with the Building Regulations to ensure
plumbing systems compliance and no risk of backflow contamination;
1.7.14 A construction stage hydraulic model (if relevant);
1.7.15 As Constructed Record Drawings (in hard copy and digital format) shall
show the location, layout plans, longitudinal sections and details of the
Works and the Development in full. Plan scales should be in common use,
i.e. 1:200, 1:500, 1:1000 or 1:2500 as appropriate. Drawings should be
prepared using an electronic system and submitted in standard “CAD
compatible (dwg/dxf)” file format. These drawings shall contain the
following information:
1.7.15.1 Locations of all valves, hydrants, scour valves or washout
hydrants, meters, ducts, tapping locations, Water Main and
service pipes, Boundary Boxes, etc., complete with legends
to Irish Water’s requirements;
1.7.15.2 Detailed pipe material types, sizes, connection detailed
plans of pipe branches, showing valve locations, etc.;
1.7.15.3 Locations of assets are to be to +/- 100mm accuracy in the
horizontal plane to the centre of the asset, with dimensions
relating to fixed Irish National Grid (ING) co-ordinates;

15
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

1.7.15.4 Cover level for Water Main fittings and intermittent Water
Main invert levels relating to fixed Ordnance Survey Datum
(Malin Head) to an accuracy of +/- 20mm;
1.7.15.5 Longitudinal sections, to an exaggerated vertical scale,
(such as 1:1000 horizontal and 1:100 vertical) showing
installed levels, completed ground levels, invert levels, pipe
sizes, bedding, haunch and surround details, backfill details,
together with Chamber locations, chainages, gradients, pipe
materials, etc. All Chambers for water supply fittings shall be
identified and provided with location co-ordinates to Irish
National Grid (ING);
1.7.15.6 Details of any services and structures on the site, especially
those in close proximity to the Works including offset
measurement to the water supply system;
1.7.15.7 Dwelling and building numbers;
1.7.15.8 Construction details of pump station as well as mechanical,
electrical and instrumentation equipment details;
1.7.15.9 Details of services and structures on the site, existing and
proposed, especially those in close proximity to the Works
including offsets measurements to the Works.

Necessary updates of the As Built record drawings shall be provided on completion of

the Development Works along with the Final Documents and prior to occupation of the
premises. Where Works are being carried out in a phased manner, an agreed method
of submitting the “as built” records shall be agreed with Irish Water. As a minimum,
updated drawings shall be submitted to Irish Water every 6 months or when new
elements of a Works have been made live.

1.8 Conformance Certificate

Following Irish Water’s examination of the Final Documents provided and completion of
site inspections of the Works, the Developer will be made aware of the outcome of
these inspections in writing and may be required to undertake remedial work. An
additional inspection will be carried out if deemed necessary and, if accepted, Irish
Water will issue a Conformance Certificate and complete the connection of the Works
to the existing infrastructure within the timeframe indicated in the Connection
Agreement. If minor corrections are required to the Works (snags) a ‘Defects Report`
will be issued with the Conformance Certificate outlining these minor defects. These
minor corrections shall be addressed by the Developer within a reasonable timeframe
before the connection is completed.

If the Developer does not attend to the listed remedial requirements outlined in the
“Defects Reports” or if these remedial works are not carried out or undertaken in a
reasonable timeframe, Irish Water will have recourse to call upon the Self-Lay Surety of
the Connection Agreement or may not connect the Works to the Irish Water Network.

16
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Irish Water reserves the position that Vesting of the Works in Irish Water or connection
to the Network(s) will not take place until all Final Documents of the Works have been
provided to Irish Water and are deemed acceptable.

1.9 Connection of Development to Irish Water Network

Following the completion of the minor corrections outlined in the Defects Reports, Irish
Water or its agents will carry out the connection of the Works to the Irish Water’s
Network. The Defects Liability Period commences at the date of the Conformance
Certificate. Irish Water will vest the Works upon its connection to the Network. However,
the Developer will be deemed to remain responsible under the Connection Agreement
for the cost of remediation of any defective works that are deemed necessary during the
Defects Liability Period. Irish Water will undertake inspections, surveys and
investigations to assess the continued compliance of the Works during the Defects
Liability Period.

The Developer shall not proceed with “step-by-step” extensions of the initial approved
infrastructure beyond that which has received Irish Water agreement/consent via the
Connection Agreement without making a formal application for and receiving Irish Water
approval of any extension(s) of the Works associated with the initial Development, i.e.
the connection of subsequent phases of the development from the initial development’s
infrastructure, shall not proceed without a Connection Agreement being in place for the
subsequent phase. This will also apply where another developer is seeking to connect
into the infrastructure installed in the Development. Such extensions are regarded as
additional new Connection Works and are subject to the same level of Irish Water
compliance, governance, etc., as the initial connection. These extensions will require
separate Connection Agreements, payment, inspection, auditing, etc.

1.10 Vesting

Under the Connection Agreement, the Developer agrees that the Works will become
vested in the ownership of Irish Water immediately upon issuance of the Conformance
Certificate by Irish Water.

If the Works is deemed adequate after final inspections and completion of remediation
defects, a Conformance Certificate will be issued and thereafter a connection will be
made to the Network. Upon the issuance of the Conformance Certificate the new
infrastructure (the Works) will be vested in Irish Water in accordance with the
Connection Agreement.

Prior to Vesting, the Developer will be required to provide proof of title of the
Development land as well as whatever formal Deed of Grant of Easement and
associated PRA Compliant Map(s) are required in accordance with the Connection
Agreement for pipework routes for the benefit of Irish Water. Deeds of Grant of
Easement and associated PRA Compliant Map(s) in accordance with the Connection
Agreement for the routes of pipework for Irish Water required extensions for new

17
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

developments adjacent to the Development being advanced may also be required if

Irish Water has required this as part of the Connection Agreement or has required the
upsizing or extension of the Works to facilitate the adjacent future developments.

The Developer shall provide a Deed of Grant of Easement and associated PRA
Compliant Map(s) for the benefit of Irish Water in a form as set out in the Connection
Agreement over all the lands which are intended to be taken in charge by the Local
Authority under Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000. These areas
shall be highlighted on a Property Registration Authority (PRA) compliant map and
approved by Irish Water prior to execution of the Deed.

The Developer shall provide, where part of the Works are located in private land and fall
outside lands intended to be taken in charge by a Local Authority, a Deed of Grant of
Easement and associated PRA Compliant Map(s) in a form as set out in the Connection
Agreement for the benefit of Irish Water, by the applicable landowner, of a wayleave
incorporating a protected strip of a specified width at either side of the Works in that
particular area in respect of the full length of the infrastructure. This is to ensure the
ability of Irish Water to access the Works in the private land which will be highlighted on
a Property Registration Authority compliant map and approved by Irish Water prior to
execution of the Deed.

As part of the Connection Agreement, the Developer shall agree to procure the
completed registration of the Deeds of Grant of Easements outlined above by a Solicitor
acting for the Developer as soon as possible and within all applicable time limits
prescribed in the Connection Agreement.

Information relating to the assets will be uploaded to Irish Water Asset Information.

The Developer will be responsible for the operation of the Water and Wastewater
Services Infrastructure until the end of the Defects Liability Period. At this point Irish
Water’s Operation & Maintenance will assume responsibility of the operation and
maintenance of the Works and this will be undertaken in accordance with Irish Water
procedures.

1.11 Defects Liability Period

A Defects Liability Period will apply to the Works. The Defects Liability Period will
apply for a minimum of 12 months or such other period as may be specified by Irish
Water in the Connection Agreement from the date of the Conformance Certificate and
the issue of the Completion Certificate during which the Developer is responsible under
the Connection Agreement for the cost of rectification of any defects in or connected to
the Works. Any defects found during the Defects Liability Period are the responsibility of
the Developer and shall be completed at his/her cost.

During the Defects Liability Period the Developer shall execute or procure the execution
of all works of repair reconstruction rectification and making good of defects

18
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

imperfections, shrinkages or other faults as may be required of the Developer in writing

by Irish Water during the Defects Liability Period. Irish Water may undertake additional
inspections, surveys, investigations to assess the continued adequacy of the Service
Connection Works during this period. Irish Water will notify the Developer in writing of
the need for such repair reconstruction or rectification works. All such works shall be
carried out at the Developer’s expense.

In the event of the existence of deficiencies in the Works during the Defects Liability
Period, Irish Water will identify areas of deficiencies and a programme of remedial
works to rectify these deficiencies. Repairs of these deficiencies shall be carried out by
the Developer and confirmation obtained that the repairs have achieved an adequately
watertight system by a re-run of a water audit of the Works.

If the Developer fails to execute or procure the execution of repair works, Irish Water
shall be entitled to carry out such works and shall be entitled to recover from the
Developer the expenses reasonably incurred by way of deduction from the Security
(Self-Lay Surety) provided under the Connection Agreement.

The Self-Lay Surety shall be returned to the Developer twenty eight (28) days after the
completion of the Defects Liability Period subject to any deductions made pursuant to
the Connection Agreement and subject to the Works being deemed adequate and
satisfactory.

The Developer will remain responsible for the repair to the final road restoration of
trenches. It is to be noted that the Developer will be responsible for the upkeep of roads,
footpaths, etc. until such time as the Development is taken in charge by the Local
Authority. The Developer shall alert Irish Water of the proposed Taking in Charge
schedule for the Development by the Local Authority.

Following the installation of the individual Premises’ service connections within the
Development during the Defects Liability Period, additional record documentation shall
be provided by the Developer to Irish Water. This shall comprise updated “As
Constructed” records of service pipe installation, location of inspection chamber, etc.
This information may be provided on a phased basis as blocks of houses are made
ready for occupation by the Developer.

1.12 Hygiene Requirements during Defects Liability Period & Remedial Work

All pipework components, fittings, equipment and tools used during repair the elements
of the Works during the Defects Liability Period shall be clean. All components,
equipment and tools shall be disinfected. A solution containing 1% of available chlorine
(e.g. 10% chloros or other commercial hypochlorite solution) shall be used. Contact time
shall comply with the EPA Disinfection Manual requirements. The equipment shall be
rinsed or flushed with Mains water to prevent excessive corrosion.

19
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Portable test equipment, which may be used in contact with potable water, shall be kept
clean. Any equipment which is in an uncertain condition or which is contaminated shall
be cleaned and disinfected before use.

A high degree of cleanliness shall be maintained throughout the repair of the Works. If
necessary, all parts around the section of pipe or service Main repair shall be treated
with solution as above. Spraying equipment shall be used where possible. All new pipe
sections, equipment, fittings, etc. shall be chlorinated immediately before installation
with a solution, as above.

Sufficient welfare arrangements shall be provided at each work location by the

Developer’s contractor and sub-contractor to ensure sufficient hygiene standards are
met by their workforce. The contractor/sub-contractor shall pay particular attention to
working in or around areas with high risk sources of contamination. The Contractor shall
also pay particular attention when transmittable diseases may be present and
implement suitable appropriate additional hygiene standards in such situations.

The provisions of Section 1.5 above shall be observed also in relation to hygiene during
the advancement of remedial works and in particular Sub-Sections 1.5.6 to Sub-Section
1.5.8 above.

Similar hygiene precautions shall be applied during the commissioning of Water Mains
described in Section 4.10 below.

1.13 Water Audit Prior to Defects Liability Period Termination

The Developer shall carry out a water audit in advance of the ending of the Defects
Liability Period and provide a Leak Detection Report to Irish Water. This shall be carried
out for the Developer by a competent leak detection contractor. A meter log of the
actual daily demand will be obtained to determine the average daily demand of the
Development over a one week period where bulk meters are installed (demand greater
than 20m3). A meter log of the night flow demand will also be carried out to determine
the minimum night flow in the water supply network over the same period. Verification of
these demands and flows shall be obtained by the Irish Water field engineers for
authentication.

In the case of Developments that have a demand less than 20 m3 per day, the leak
detection contractor shall carry out step tests to determine if there is leakage in the
Works.

If anomalies are identified between the actual demand of the houses occupied in the
Development and the expected water audit demand, further interrogation of the demand
will be undertaken. In addition, if the night flow demand is in excess of that which would
be expected for a newly installed network is identified (which should be close to zero
water demand), Irish Water may/will employ a Water Conservation Contractor, to
undertake inspections, acoustic surveys (soundings) and step-testing of the Works to

20
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

identify any areas of leaks. The repairs will be assessed to ensure that an adequately
watertight system is achieved by re-measurement of actual daily demand and minimum
night flow demand.

If the Developer does not execute the repairs in a reasonable timeframe or refuses to
cover the cost of the water audit(s) and Water Conservation Contractor activities, Irish
Water will complete these tests and recover their costs from the Surety provided by the
Developer under the Connection Agreement.

1.14 Final Inspection at Defects Liability Termination

Irish Water will carry out a final inspection of the Works nearing the end of the Defects
Liability Period. This inspection amongst other things will establish if any additional work
has been carried out by the Developer that might impact on the integrity of the Works
since the issue of the Conformance Certificate and commencement of the Defects
Liability Period. Such impacts may be associated with the installation of other utility
services without proper horizontal and vertical separation, installation of structures
closer to the Works than allowed, damage to the infrastructure by building works, etc.

If defects are observed, additional inspections and surveys may be required to identify
and locate such defects. The Developer shall, at their cost, undertake such surveys
and, if not advanced by the Developer, they will be undertaken by Irish Water and the
cost shall be recovered through any Surety associated with the Connection Agreement.

Additional works may have to be carried out by and at the cost of the Developer to
rectify these defects if deemed necessary by Irish Water. If these repairs are not
executed by the Developer, Irish Water will carry out the remedial works and its funding
will be covered by the Security put in place under the Connection Agreement.

If the Works is deemed adequate after the Defects Liability final inspections, Irish Water
will release the Security to the Developer subject to any deductions that might arise due
to monies owed for remedial works or other costs incurred by Irish Water.

1.15 Completion Certificate

Following The Defects Liability Period Irish Water will issue a Completion Certificate to
the Developer. Irish Water may deduct from the Self-Lay Surety any costs which Irish
Water may incur:

1.15.1 in undertaking any works of construction, reconstruction, maintenance,

rectification or repair or making good of defects, imperfections, shrinkages or
other faults by reason of the Developer or the Contractor failing to complete
in a good and workmanlike manner and in accordance with the specification
aforesaid the entirety of the Service Connection; or,

21
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

1.15.2 towards invoices or sums payable by virtue of any actions, claims or

demands made against Irish Water by any third party as a result of any act or
default by the Developer.

1.16 Statutory and Other Consents

The Developer shall obtain all necessary Requisite Consents and other permissions for
the proposed Development including the Works.

1.17 Fire Authority Liaison

The Local Fire Authority shall be consulted by the Developer on all details of Self-Lay
Works to ensure compliance with their requirements. The Developer or his/her designer
shall be responsible for all liaisons with the Fire Authority and agreeing all arrangements
for the provision of fire flow for fire fighting purposes. Irish Water shall be made aware of
and provided with relevant documentation arising from such consultation/liaison.

Irish Water may carry out a modelling assessment (if an appropriate calibrated model is
available) of the existing Network and based on the known demands at the time advise
the Developer of the theoretical flow and pressures at the proposed connection point in
the Network. Alternatively, an in-situ flow a pressure test may be carried out at the
expense of the Developer by an approved person/organisation in conjunction with Irish
Water to identify the actual flow and pressure available in the network at a particular
point in time. It should be borne in mind that the theoretical results from the modelling
and the actual results from the in-situ tests cannot be guaranteed by Irish Water.

Where a Developer requests increased fire flow capacity in the water supply network to
meet fire flow requirements, Irish Water will review the existing network and may offer to
carry out network upgrades, at the expense of the Developer. In such instances, Irish
Water can not guarantee that the flow rates and residual pressures will meet the
requirements of the Fire Authority.

Irish Water shall be contacted if the Fire Authority requires measures that affects the
design of the Network, e.g. a requirement to have more than one connection serving a
development. Irish Water can not guarantee that its Network in any location will have
the capacity to deliver a particular flow rate and associated residual pressure to meet
the requirements of the relevant Fire Authority.

Where the existing Network does not have capacity to provide the Fire Authority fire
flow requirements and/or if no Network infrastructural improvements are planned by
Irish Water, the Developer shall provide adequate fire storage capacity or an alternative
source within the Development to satisfy the Fire Authority’s fire flow requirements. This
fire water storage infrastructure shall be provided with facilities to ensure that no cross
contamination is possible of the potable water within Works. This necessary works to
prevent cross contamination shall be provided to the agreement of Irish Water. Fire flow
provision shall have regard to Irish Water policies for private side revenue metering.

22
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Where separate fire mains are provided off of Irish Water’s Network, a dedicated bulk
flow meter, with a make and model specified by Irish Water, and associated telemetry
system shall be provided at the Developer’s cost. The connection arrangement shall be
provided with a non-return valve to prevent backflow into the Water Network system.

Fire hydrants should be located in accordance with the Fire Authority’s requirements
such that they provide a convenient supply of water for fire fighting within the
Development. The location and type of fire hydrant should be shown in any design
submitted for Irish Water review. The Fire hydrants and washouts hydrants should be
sited on footways, wherever possible and should be located such that access is
maintained at all times.

1.18 Regulations

The Developer shall comply with all current Irish legislation. The version of these Acts
and Regulations current at the time of the project shall be applicable.

1.19 Standards

All material shall be in accordance with the Relevant Standards as well as with the
relevant European Standards (EN) covering the subject which is in force in the
European Union. In Ireland ENs are published as IS EN and in the UK ENs are
published as BS EN. Where there is no relevant European Standard, materials shall be
in accordance with an Irish Standard (IS) or a British Standard (BS). A Water UK Water
Industry Specification (WIS) may be used where there is no relevant European
Standard, Irish Standard, British Standard or European Union National Standard
available.

In the case of recently developed or innovative products, there may be no European

Standard, Irish Standard, British Standard or European Union National Standard
available. This may not preclude the use of a product where its performance or
properties can be determined to align with its intended duty and design life. Careful
consideration should be given to any independent assessment of evidence of product
performance and in particular on the suitability of such products in contact with water fit
for human consumption.

Developers should discuss and agree the proposed use of newly developed products
with Irish Water and seek and receive derogation for the use of such products. Such
products shall only be used only if approval of the derogation is received and shall not
be used without the prior consent of Irish Water. Additional quality assurance
requirements, including third party certification may be required (in Ireland this will be
provided by or endorsed by the National Standards Authority of Ireland) in this instance.
The use of products which are not in accordance with the provision of a European
Standard, Irish Standard, a British Standard or a European Union National Standard

23
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

could result in the material, product or unit being excluded from use or, if installed, being
removed from the Works at the Developer’s cost.

1.20 Civil Engineering Specification for the Water Industry (CESWI)

The design and construction of Works shall conform to the current version of the Civil
Engineering Specification for the Water Industry (CESWI), subject to the particular
requirements applied to it by Irish Water, as outlined in this Code of Practice. CESWI is
a base document and it is published by the Water Research Centre (WRc plc). Irish
Water has developed additional Amendments and Notes for Guidance to CESWI to
reflect its own additional general specification requirements. This Code of Practice is
based on CESWI and the Irish Water Amendments thereto.

1.21 Standard Details

Irish Water has developed Standard Details describing typical infrastructure associated
with the Works. These Standard Details shall be used as a minimum guide for the
preparation of designs and provision of infrastructure. A full set of the Standard Details
for water supply infrastructure is available on the Irish Water website, at
www.water.ie/connections/.

1.22 Temporary Water Supply Connection for Construction Purposes

A Developer requiring a water supply connection during the Development construction

period for temporary site office accommodation and general construction activities shall
apply to Irish Water for the provision of this temporary water supply. This temporary
supply shall only be used for the provision of water for construction activities and the
connection shall not be used for permanent supply to the Development premises. The
Developer shall install fittings compliant with IS EN 1717 to prevent backflow from such
connections into the Irish Water Network.

A Connection Application is required for a temporary water supply connection. This is

outlined in the Irish Water Guide to Connect which is available on the Irish Water
website, at www.water.ie/connections/. A Connection Agreement is required in all cases
before Irish Water advances the provision of a temporary connection from its Network.

Water use for construction will be supplied either through a separate connection, which
would be subject to a Connection Application/Agreement, etc. or through the Main
connection. A bulk meter reading in each situation would be used as the basis of the
Developer paying for construction water.

A bulk water meter to an Irish Water specification with data logger and automatic
reading facilities (AMR) shall be provided adjacent to the connection point to record the
water use and log the demand for billing purposes. On completion of the construction of
the Development, the temporary water supply shall be disconnected by Irish Water or
an agent on its behalf and all of the infrastructure relating to it shall be removed to

24
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

ensure that it is not used as an unauthorised connection in the future. The cost of the
disconnection work will be the responsibility of the Developer and will be obtained
through the Connection Agreement payments.

1.23 Extensions to Undeveloped Contiguous Areas

Where it is identified by Irish Water that there is a strategic benefit in the possibility of
connecting into or extending the Works to adjoining land that is not developed, the
Developer shall provide for future connections to these areas by upsizing and/or
extending the Works as required by Irish Water to the boundary of the Development.
The pipe extension shall terminate with sluice valve (normally closed), a washout
hydrant and a blank end with a suitable thrust block. This will be the subject of a
separate Technical Requirements Agreement.

Irish Water will reimburse the Developer for the cost of this pipe upsizing or extensions
at a unit rate commiserate with the average cost of providing the appropriate Water
Main s. Irish Water will also cover the cost increase due to the marginal increase in
Main size within the Works to service the future demand of the adjoining development
area. The Connection Agreement and associated Technical Requirement Agreement
will outline how such reimbursement will be applied.

25
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Part 2 – Design Requirements and Submissions

2.1 Introduction

A Developer intending to seek a new connection from Irish Water should refer to the
Irish Water Guide to Connect which is available on the Irish Water website, at
www.water.ie.

The Developer shall carry out or procure the design of the Works. The Developer’s
designer shall be competent and the design shall be carried out strictly in accordance
with this Code of Practice. Irish Water shall nominate the location of the connection
point to the Network(s). The relevant details and specific requirements of Irish Water
should be sought together with the possible Water Connection Point to the Water
Works.

The provisions of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and associated
Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations shall apply in relation to
the design and construction of all Works.

2.2 General Design Requirements

The design shall incorporate a design risk assessment to ensure that risks to both the
local community and operators of the Works are minimised. The provisions of the
Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and associated Safety, Health and
Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations shall apply in respect of the appointment of
competent designer, Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP) and Project Supervisor
Construction Stage (PSCS).

The Developer or his/her designer shall certify that the design complies with the Code of
Practice and Standard Details and accepts liability for compliance through their
professional indemnity insurance, which shall be kept in place for a period of 6 years
after the issue of the Completion Certificate. The Developer shall ensure that this
professional indemnity insurance is retained and that evidence of this is available if
requested by Irish Water in accordance with the requirements of the Connection
Agreement. The design responsibilities and liabilities shall not be discharged by Irish
Water after the design passes a satisfactory inspection and issue of a Statement of
Design Acceptance, if a design submission is provided in advance of a Connection
Application, or by a de-facto Statement of Design Acceptance via the Connection
Agreement, if the design submission is provided as part of the Connection Application.

The design of the Works shall be such that a minimum design life is achieved of 60
years for pipework and structures, 25 years for mechanical and electrical plant and 15
years for information, communication and telemetry (ICT) plant.

If these requirements, Standard Details and Codes of Practice are not followed, Irish
Water is under no obligation to provide a connection to its Network or vest the Works.

26
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

2.3 Design Submissions

Before the submission of a Connection Application for a new Connection or an

additional Connection can be considered, appropriate information is required from the
Applicant to allow Irish Water to assess the Developer’s Works proposal. This should be
provided in a design submission in advance of a Connection Application for
Developments. Design submissions are to be submitted to Irish Water using
cdsdesignqa@water.ie. Irish Water will engage with the Developer to vet the design of
the Works ahead of the Developer finalising a planning application (for housing and
mixed use Developments to ensure compliance with the Codes of Practice and
Standard Details). The design submission shall comprise the following information as a
minimum:

2.3.1 The applicant’s details, including name, address (Developer’s or Agent’s

details are also required if different from the applicant);
2.3.2 Location of the Development with grid reference to the Irish National Grid;
2.3.3 Type of Development proposed that requires the connection, along with
details of domestic and non-domestic properties that will be connected to
the Works;
2.3.4 Servicing details, including the required demand, demand profile;
2.3.5 Drawings outlining details of the Development as outlined in Section 2.4
below,
2.3.6 Design calculations as outlined in Section 2.4 below;
2.3.7 Site Investigation Report;
2.3.8 Contaminated Ground Report (if relevant);
2.3.9 Mechanical and Electrical plant information (if relevant);
2.3.10 Surge analysis report and proposals for surge protection plant, if required;
2.3.11 An Environmental Impact Assessment (EIS) or Appropriate Assessment
(AA) Report (if relevant);
2.3.12 An integrated utility layout plan showing the layout of all utility pipes, ducts,
etc. and indicating the relative separation distances between the various
utilities infrastructure;
2.3.13 Details of the Planning Permission and other statutory requirements
relating to the Development, including approvals from the Fire Authority,
etc.;
2.3.14 A document outlining impact risks of the new infrastructure to existing Irish
Water’s wastewater collection and water supply infrastructure to ensure
that risks to both the local community and operators of the Works are
minimised;
2.3.15 The identity of the manufacturer of pipeline and accessories material, if
polyethylene material is proposed;
2.3.16 Manufacturers’ data sheets and certificates for fittings and materials used
or to be used in the Works
2.3.17 Where booster pumping stations are proposed, drawings and
specifications of the pump station should be provided;

27
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

2.3.18 A report on specialist advice on separation distances between landscape

works and the Works as obtained from a competent landscaping
architect(s) and/or arboriculturist(s) to ensure that the required separation
distances are achieved;
2.3.19 The specific location for any scour valve chamber on pressure mains
requiring the approval of Irish Water and the relevant Local Authority;
2.3.20 A design stage hydraulic model of the Works (if deemed relevant by Irish
Water);
2.3.21 A Preliminary Health and Safety Plan;
2.3.22 Construction Method Statements;
2.3.23 If applicable, a written statement from the Roads Authority in whose
functional area the Development is located allowing the use of alternative
Backfill material in lieu of Irish Water’s requirement for the use of Clause
804/808 granular material.
2.3.24 If the proposal includes installing Works which are to be constructed on
made ground, engineered ground or within fill zones, this should be clearly
stated in the Design Submission with such areas/locations or zones
clearly identified and indicated on a plan layout attached to the
submission. Geotechnical reports shall be provided for the particular
areas/locations or zones outlining the design for the pipe support system
as well as construction details at and along transitionary interfaces
between made ground, engineered ground and fill zones and surrounding
original or virgin ground. A method statement for the construction of the
Works shall also be provided.

Irish Water will require the provision of appropriate design parameters, calculations,
drawings, details, etc. from the Developer. The Developer’s design will be vetted by
Irish Water to ensure that it is in compliance with the Code of Practice, Standard
Details, specifications and good practice. Any deficiencies that are identified in the
proposals will be advised to the Applicant during the design vetting assessment and
these deficiencies shall be remedied to the satisfaction of IW. A revision of the design
proposed shall be submitted and Irish Water will assess this revised design proposal.
Irish Water will issue a Statement of Design Acceptance if the design of the Works is
deemed satisfactory. A Connection Agreement will not be issued unless the Developer’s
design proposal is acceptable to Irish Water.

If a Developer intends to proceed with a variation of the design or construction

standards which have already been assessed by Irish Water as being satisfactory, then
he/she must apply to Irish Water for approval of the revised design proposal. This
application for the variation must include all necessary data and information to prove
that the proposed revised design meets the requirements of this Code of Practice. Irish
Water is not obliged to accept the alternative design. If Irish Water accepts and agrees
with the alternative proposals, written confirmation of acceptance of the waiver from the
original design standards in whole or in part will be provided.

28
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Irish Water will not provide retrospective approval of a variation of the design of Works
and is under no obligation to provide a connection or complete Vesting of the Works
based on an unapproved design.

2.4 Drawings, Calculations and Design Information

Drawings and calculations shall be supplied for the Works, including elements that are
not to be vested in Irish Water, i.e. Pipes that are not within the Attendant Grounds of
the Development.

Layout plans shall be prepared with standard legends and symbols as required by Irish
Water’s Drawing Standard and at least with water services industry norms. The
drawings submitted by the Developer should show the precise layout as dictated by the
local topography and all necessary detailed information required for guidance. The
drawings should show the site boundary, existing utility apparatus, North point,
Ordnance Grid reference for the centre of the site, Ordnance Grid reference for the
proposed Connection Point(s), etc.

Location and layout plans, longitudinal sections and details should show the water
supply system and Development in full. Plan scales are required to be shown at either
1:200, 1:250, 1:500, as appropriate, for A1 sheet size. Drawings shall be prepared in a
digital format using “CAD (dwg/dxf)” file format and submitted in PDF. Details to larger
scales should be provided where necessary. The drawings submitted should also show
the following:

2.4.1 The location of the Development on an Ordnance Survey Map with the site
outlined in red;
2.4.2 Layout of roads and properties including plot numbers, phasing of
Development (if relevant) to include the overall development plan layout
intended to be constructed and delivered in phases indicating phase lines
and control breaks;
2.4.3 Line and layouts of Water Mains, hydrants, valve Chambers, meter boxes,
scour Main systems, air valves, details of all associated features and
external property details;
2.4.4 Detailed information on the proposed Water Mains including Main size,
pipe material, class of pipe, pressure rating, etc., including details of
existing services in the case of infill or brownfield sites;
2.4.5 Locations of service pipes, showing size of service pipe if above 25mm
diameter. Locations of Boundary Boxes, manifold boxes and meter
Chambers;
2.4.6 Details of type of Service Connections and meter arrangements for
apartment and multi occupancy units to allow water supply metering of the
individual properties;
2.4.7 Any fire flow storage capacity arising from Fire Authority requirements as
well as associated fire network and accessories;

29
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

2.4.8 Clear demarcation showing the water infrastructure to be installed by the

Developer as opposed to that to be constructed by Irish Water;
2.4.9 Details of over ground and underground structures within the Attendant
Grounds and especially those that are to be vested in Irish Water,
including appropriate vehicular access to these structures;
2.4.10 Contours of existing ground levels, proposed Development ground levels
and property floor levels relative to Ordnance Datum (Malin Head);
2.4.11 Longitudinal sections, to an exaggerated vertical scale, showing proposed
levels, existing ground levels, existing or proposed buried services
crossing the pipes, invert levels, pipe sizes, bedding, haunch and surround
details, thrust blocks associated with the Water Mains, backfill details,
together with Chamber locations, chainages, gradients, pipe sizes, pipe
materials, etc. All Chambers should be given unique sequential
numbers/letters for identification;
2.4.12 Locations of all natural features, such as trees, streams, rivers, springs,
etc., which are in the vicinity of the proposed Works;
2.4.13 Location of manmade features, such as existing structures, buildings,
roads, bridges, made ground, engineered ground or fill zones, etc., which
are in close proximity to the proposed water network system;
2.4.14 An integrated utility layout plan showing the layout of all utility
infrastructure (ESB Networks, Gas Networks Ireland’s Networks,
telecommunication provider ducting, etc.) and indicating the relative
separation distances between the various utility infrastructure, which shall
be in accordance with Irish Water’s separation distance requirements;
2.4.15 Layout taking into account possible future developments;
2.4.16 Location of Ordnance Survey (OS) Benchmarks and their value to Malin
Head Datum;
2.4.17 Information and details of water management infrastructure within the
Development as required under Section 3.29 below.

The design should be clear and unambiguous outlining the water demand requirements
based on the type and number of units served, occupancy rate of the units, per-capita
demand, etc. The design should outline the average day peak week demand, peak flow
factor, headroom allowance, etc. The Works should be modelled and designed using an
approved software package where required which provides a network model, pipe flow,
pressures, etc. in its output.

The design shall be deemed to cover all associated and ancillary works such as pipe
supports, beds, surround, backfill, surface restoration, access arrangements, etc.

The submission should include a soil investigation report including details of soil
analysis, results of the soil analysis in tabular format, plans showing the locations where
site investigations were carried out and the location of samples taken, details of known
contaminants, details of possible contamination, mitigation proposals/measures to
address soil contamination, details of standing water tables, etc. Irish Water reserves
the right to have its own independent site investigation work carried out to verify the

30
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

results of the submitted site investigation data and reports. The cost of this will be
recovered by Irish Water from the Developer under the Connection Agreement or under
a separate Project Works Service Agreement.

The submission should include a schedule of materials along with manufacturers’ data
sheets and certificates for the material required for the proposed Works, including the
size and lengths of pipes, fittings, etc.

The design submission should include recorded evidence that the Fire Authority has
been consulted on the fire flow requirements, locations of fire hydrants, need for on-site
fire storage capacity, etc. Correspondence from the Fire Authority outlining these
requirements should be provided in the submission. Any changes to the design of the
water supply system will require additional consultation and approval from the Fire
Authority. (See Section 1.17 above)

The design submission shall also provide specific information of any business (non-
domestic) customers that are to be served as well as any other pertinent information.

Irish Water will nominate a suitable location for the points for connection of the Works to
the Irish Water Network to provide adequate flows and pressures to meet the level of
service, bearing in mind proposals for future development. Consideration will also be
given to reinforcing requirements to the existing Network. The need for the provision of
pressure reducing arrangements should be addressed and, if required, details of the
pressure reduction measures shall be provided.

2.5 Hydraulic Modelling

Irish Water may require the Developer to provide a hydraulic model of the proposed
Works within the new Development to confirm that it is capable of delivering the
required diurnal demand and that it provides optimum pressures at each Boundary Box.
The Developer will also be required to show that the proposed design of the Works
within the Development meets the fire fighting requirements of the relevant Fire
Authority. This model shall take account of the reliable water pressure and flow that is
available at the proposed connection point to Irish Water’s Network. The water pressure
at the connection point shall be logged by the Developer.

Where a ‘design stage’ hydraulic model of the proposed Works is required by Irish
Water, the Developer will be required to undertake pressure logging of the existing
network, at the connection point and possibly flow/pressure logging of the existing
upstream network at critical points. This will be carried out with the approval and at the
discretion of Irish Water.

The ‘design stage’ hydraulic model shall be constructed to Irish Water’s latest model
specifications. The Developer shall appoint a suitably qualified specialist to carry out the
hydraulic modelling. The Developer will be required to present Irish Water with the
‘design stage’ hydraulic model and predicted pressures and flows, etc., with sufficient

31
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

data to validate the model. The ‘design stage’ hydraulic model of the proposed
Development shall be constructed using appropriate data and all assumptions (e.g.
demand assessment, etc.) shall be comprehensively explained in accompanying
documentation. Where significant impact on the existing network arises from the
required demand of the proposed Development t, the Developer shall be required to
make this known to Irish Water for inclusion in Irish Water’s Asset Strategy’s model
assessment of the existing Network.

Upon completion of the proposed Development, or at a designated stage of the

Development as required by Irish Water, the Developer shall upgrade the ‘design stage’
hydraulic model to a ‘construction stage’ hydraulic model. The ‘construction stage’
hydraulic model shall include information from as-built surveys of the Works and shall
be verified in accordance with Irish Water’s latest model specifications. Verification shall
include a repeat and more extensive pressure/flow logging and model validation
exercise at critical points in the Works in accordance with the logging criteria set out in
Irish Water’s latest model specifications.

The Developer shall demonstrate to Irish Water (i.e. using the ‘construction stage’ hydraulic
model) that the Works is performing to the hydraulic standards for which it was designed with
results comprehensively demonstrated in accompanying documentation. On site flow and
pressure verification of the hydraulic model results shall be used to confirm this and
Irish Water shall be provided with an opportunity to observe these verifications.

2.6 General Minimum Requirements

The following general minimum requirements shall apply to the Works in new
Developments:

2.6.1 Every unit, whether domestic or business, shall have a separate Water
Service connection.
2.6.2 A connection shall not be taken from an existing Service Connection.
2.6.3 All business connections shall have individually valve controlled metered
services.
2.6.4 All domestic connections shall have individually valve controlled metered
services.
2.6.5 A bulk meter and associated telemetry system shall be provided to
measure the demand of Developments with a daily demand exceeding
200 m3 per day (equivalent to approximately 400 housing units). The
meter and the telemetry system will be chosen and supplied by Irish Water
to its requirements based on the range of flow anticipated and the
Developer shall provide the infrastructure to accommodate the meter and
the telemetry facilities.
2.6.6 Where the demand of a Development or estate is between 20 m3 per day
(equivalent to 40 domestic houses) and 200 m3 per day, a bulk meter with
a SMS/GPRS telemetry data-logger, with capability to record flow and
pressure at regular intervals, located in an adjoining kiosk shall be
provided. The meter and the telemetry system will be chosen and supplied
32
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

by Irish Water to its requirements based on the range of flow anticipated

and the Developer shall provide the infrastructure to accommodate the
meter and the telemetry facilities.
2.6.7 Where the flows to Development or estate are less than 20 m3 per day,
there is no requirement to install a bulk meter to measure water demand
of the Development. However, infrastructure shall be provided for the
measurement of night flows by the installation of a sluice valve with
domestic sized tapping linked to a domestic sized meter and Boundary
Box at the entrance to such Developments.
2.6.8 Metered connections shall consist of a sluice valve, a straight length of
pipework at least 10 times the meter diameter upstream of the meter,
approved water meter, a straight length of pipework at least 5 times the
pipe diameter downstream of the meter and a sluice valve.
2.6.9 In the case of multi-occupancy units, all new/refurbished premises must
be designed and have plumbing of each unit installed in such a way so
that each unit can be separately metered, with meters and shut-off valves
in accessible locations and subject to prior agreement with Irish Water.
2.6.10 Temporary water supplies for construction purposes shall have a meter
and logger (chosen and supplied by Irish Water) installed to measure flow,
complete with a logger to measure flows throughout the duration of the
construction works.
2.6.11 All units shall have facilities for a minimum water storage capacity of 24-
hour water demand.
2.6.12 Break tanks and booster pumps may be required for taller buildings as
necessary to augment normal background supply pressure.
2.6.13 Where electric showers and dishwasher, washing machine, heating
systems, etc. are provided in buildings, they shall not be connected
directly to Irish Water’s water supply system. Direct feeds from Irish
Water’s water supply system shall only be to a potable water supply tap
and the water storage tank.
2.6.14 The installation of the connection pipework between the Development ‘s
water supply network and the existing Irish Water supply network system
shall be carried out only by Irish Water or its agents.
2.6.15 The water supply pipework for Development shall not be located on
private land. If this is unavoidable, Irish Water shall be nominated as the
beneficiary of a wayleave across such land to allow maintenance and
repair of and access to the infrastructure.
2.6.16 Valves, meters, hydrants, air valves, etc. shall be located in Chambers as
indicated within this document.

These general minimum requirements are outlined in greater detail in Part 3 below.

33
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Part 3 – Design Requirements

3.1 Compliance

The Works shall comply with this Code of Practice and with the associated Standard
Details for Water Infrastructure as a minimum, unless otherwise agreed with Irish Water
in advance. The Works shall also comply with:

3.1.1 The Standards listed in Appendix B;

3.1.2 The Civil Engineering Specification for the Water Industry, 7 th Edition
(CESWI), published by the Water Research Centre (WRc plc). This
document is subject to amendments set out by Irish Water appropriate to
Ireland’s Water Services sector and this Code of Practice takes account of
these amendments;
3.1.3 IS EN 805, Water Supply – Requirements for Systems and Components
Outside Buildings;

Distribution Systems inside the boundary of the Curtilage of a Premise are outside the
scope of this Code of Practice. However, in the provision of such infrastructure,
cognisance should be taken of IS EN 806 – Water Supply – Requirements for Systems
Inside Buildings, and to BS 8558 which provides complimentary guidance.

3.2 Reliability and Design Objectives

The Works shall be designed and constructed to reliably convey the water flows that are
required of the Development including fire flow requirements by the Fire Authority.

The size of the Water Mains within new Developments is to be governed by:
3.2.1 The requirement that they have adequate hydraulic capacity to deliver the
Development’s demands at all times;
3.2.2 They reserve the wholesome water quality;
3.2.3 They avoid excessive retention or travel times
3.2.4 They ensure adequate turnover of water and to prevent stagnation in the
system.

The Water Main layout shall provide efficient and flexible operation of the Works with
minimum control points and surface assets to mitigate future maintenance and
operation costs.

Pipes shall be free from defects or other features that might give rise to blockage,
airlocks or otherwise impede the water flow. The range of flow velocity within the water
supply Mains shall lie between 0.3 m/sec and 1.5m/sec, and preferably in the middle of
this range. The pipework should be selected to ensure that the head loss in the
pipework does not exceed 3m/km.

34
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.3 Materials – General Requirements

The Developer is responsible for the provision of materials and shall have an auditable
system in place to trace materials from manufacture, specification, purchase and
through to delivery and their use in the permanent Works on site.

Materials/fittings to be used in the Works shall be suitable for use in contact with water
intended for human consumption so as to achieve compliance with Statutory Instrument
122 of 2014, European Union (Drinking Water) Regulations 2014. All materials and
products in contact with water intended for human consumption shall be:

3.3.1 included in the latest “List of Approved Products for use in Public Water
Supply in the United Kingdom” published by the Drinking Water
Inspectorate (DWI) for England and Wales. Documentary evidence that
the substance or product has been specifically approved under the DWI
system, or equivalent approval system shall be provided to Irish Water for
acceptance; or
3.3.2 listed in the current edition of the Water Fittings and Materials Directory
published by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS). To
demonstrate compliance under this scheme, a letter from WRAS shall be
provided outlining the scope of the approval.
3.3.3 other material to those listed in 3.3.1 and 3.3.2 above may be accepted by
Irish Water provided that they have certification equivalence for use in
contact with water intended for human consumption from other EU States
from nationally recognised Certification Bodies, subject to review by Irish
Water.

Irish Water may issue a preferred list of materials and pipe sizes at its discretion. This is
to ensure compatibility with materials currently in use and allow Irish Water to minimise
the range of stocks held for maintenance purposes.

Materials including products, components, fittings or naturally occurring materials used

in the construction of the Works shall comply with this Code of Practice and be of
suitable nature and quality for their intended use. The suitability of materials and
products can be demonstrated by appropriate use of a product bearing CE marking in
accordance with the EU Construction Products Regulations (No. 305/2011 –CPR) and
any other relevant Directives which require;

3.3.4 A product complying with an appropriate technical specification (as defined

in appropriate Directives and Regulations),
3.3.5 Compliance with an appropriate harmonised Standard or European
Technical Assessment in accordance with the provisions of the
Construction Products Regulations (No. 305/2011 –CPR),
3.3.6 Compliance with an appropriate Irish Standard or NSAI Agreement
Certificate or with an alternative national technical specification of the
European Union,

35
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.3.7 A product bearing a CE Marking in accordance with the Construction

Products Regulations (No. 305/2011 –CPR).

From 1st July 2013, CE MARKING of construction products covered by harmonised

European Standards is mandatory.

Pipes should have sufficient ring stiffness to prevent deformation during storage,
embedment and backfilling. Materials and components should comply with the
following:

3.3.8 the manufacturing process should minimise the use of solvent-based

substances that emit volatile organic compounds or ozone-depleting
substances;
3.3.9 products should be made from recycled material, where reasonably
practicable.

In the event that ground conditions in any part of the site prove to be anything other
than inert material, the Developer shall inform Irish Water accordingly and he/she shall
take whatever precautions are deemed necessary by Irish Water to deal with the
situation. These precautions may include, but are not limited to, the laying of the Water
Mains which are specially designed for use in contaminated ground. Such Water Mains
shall also be installed in specifically designed trenches as approved by Irish Water or
other necessary requirements.

3.4 Structural Design and Integrity – Specific Requirements

The Works shall be designed and constructed to ensure structural integrity over their
design life. The design shall ensure that:

3.4.1 all connections to existing Water Mains are carried out in a manner that do
not compromise the structural integrity of the existing water supply network
and that the connection to the Main does not damage the structural
integrity of the pipe;
3.4.2 buried pipes have sufficient cover, as set out in Section 3.11 below, to
afford adequate protection from anticipated imposed loading, including
loading from the passage of construction plant as well as normal imposed
loading, low temperatures and damage from normal use of the land and
where this cannot be achieved, there should be suitable alternative
protection measures provided;
3.4.3 branch pipework are built into the water supply networks for planned future
connections, to the requirements of Irish Water;
3.4.4 if the depth of cover to the crown of the pipe is less than the values
required herein, protection measures are required by the provision of a
reinforced concrete slab of C30//35 to IS EN 206 for the distance where
the depth is below the minimum depth requirements and to be agreed with
Irish Water;

36
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.4.5 all pipes have the structural ability to resist the possible incidence of
punching shear;
3.4.6 no vertical load is imposed by structures such as shafts onto non-load
bearing components such as the pipes;
3.4.7 the Water Main system is resistant to tree root ingress where there is a
risk of such intrusion, (e.g. by use of appropriate barriers or pipelines
constructed from polyethylene with welded joints, see also Section 3.26
below);
3.4.8 the Works are leak tight in accordance with the test requirements outlined
in Section 4.10.3;
3.4.9 trees and large shrubs are not planted over the Works.

3.5 Layout of Works

The layout of the Works should:

3.5.1 be as simple as possible with the shortest routes chosen (subject to Section
3.5.3 below) ;
3.5.2 ensure infrastructure is located so that if there is a structural failure, an
excavation may be carried out to repair the failure without impairing the
integrity of adjacent buildings or other infrastructure or tree/shrub
landscaping ;
3.5.3 ensure infrastructure is located in public pavements, roads, in public open
spaces, in an area to be taken in charge or in a dedicated service strip to
permit access to the infrastructure for maintenance, renewal, replacement
and upgrading and to enable later connections to be made, if required;
3.5.4 ensure infrastructure is designed and constructed in order to provide access
for any reasonably foreseeable maintenance, renewal, replacement and
upgrading activities
3.5.5 ensure infrastructure is located so that it is safely accessible and apparent to
Irish Water or their Agents and that chamber covers are located at ground
level;
3.5.6 ensure infrastructure is laid on the side of the street/road where the housing
density is greatest so that the number of service pipes road crossings are
minimised and that the length of service connections are minimised; and
3.5.7 ensure that a single water supply network system is provided as opposed to
more complex dual supply networks requiring increased infrastructure
installations.

Alternative routes should be considered to identify the best achievable route that takes
account of whole-life cost arising from a combination of the construction, maintenance,
operation and eventual decommissioning of the asset.

Water Mains should be located to ensure acceptable clearances between the line of the
new Water Main and the proposed property construction and any existing structures
and features on the site. Under no circumstances will Irish Water accept Water

37
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Main installations under structures, existing or proposed, or in close proximity to

existing structures or features that will inhibit access for post installation
maintenance and access. Water Mains shall be provided in areas to be
designated as public areas (roads, footpaths, public green areas, etc.). The
provision of Service Connections supplying multiple premises and located
ultimately in private areas, referred to normally as common backyard services,
are not allowed.

The following general requirements apply to the locations of Water Mains in new
Developments that are covered by this Code of Practice:

3.5.8 Water Mains shall be laid under footpaths or grass margins. If there are
space constraints on footpaths, they may be laid on the roadway, subject
to locating them a safe distance away from the footpath/grass margin kerb
with any hydrants and air valves located on footpaths or other vehicular
free areas;
3.5.9 No new Water Main up to and including 150mm in diameter shall be laid
within 3m of an existing or proposed building structure without the express
approval of Irish Water;
3.5.10 No new Water Main between 200mm and 600mm in diameter shall be laid
within 5m of an existing or proposed building structure without the express
approval of Irish Water;
3.5.11 No new Water Main in excess of 600mm in diameter shall be laid within
8m of an existing or proposed building structure without the express
approval of Irish Water;
3.5.12 In addition to the foregoing, no new Water Main up to and including
150mm in diameter shall be located within 1m of the boundaries of
premises;
3.5.13 Water Mains shall not be located under walls, in areas designated for
trees, shrubs or flowers. Trees should not be planted in the immediate
vicinity of the Water Main unless tree root intrusion protection is provided.
The separation distances between the Water Main and the trees/shrubs
will be dependent on the species type and on the level of tree root
intrusion protection that is provided.

Water Main pipe size and layout shall be in accordance with the requirements of Irish
Water’s minimum criteria as outlined below, but subject to any particular requirements
associated with individual sites:

3.5.14 Water Main layouts shall be arranged in loops or rings so as to avoid

"dead ends" or terminal points. All Mains shall terminate in a loop or ring to
accommodate one-directional flushing of the network. The loop pipe size
shall match the size of the spur Main to which it is connected. Loops shall
have a minimum of four connected houses and one hydrant;
3.5.15 The minimum pipe size shall be 100mm internal diameter in housing
Developments of 40 houses and up to 100 houses. Developments of 100

38
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

houses and above shall have minimum pipe sizes of 150mm internal
diameter spine Main with 100mm branch Mains. Nominal internal
diameters of 80mm and less may be allowed in smaller Developments but
not where hydrants are located and only after prior written agreement has
been received from Irish Water (See Section 3.7 below);
3.5.16 The minimum pipe size shall be 150mm in industrial or commercial
Developments, or as agreed with Irish Water.
3.5.17 Every property, whether domestic or business, shall have a separate
Service Connection. A connection shall not be taken from an existing
service connection. The use of common service pipes is not allowed.
Service Connections shall be as short as reasonably possible. Long
Service Connections (in excess of 15m) will not be allowed. Service
Connections shall be a minimum pipe size of 25mm outside diameter,
20mm internal diameter;
3.5.18 Service Connections shall not be taken across roads where the width of
the road is greater than 15m, except with the prior agreement of Irish
Water. In certain circumstances, a rider Main, located entirely on public
property, may be provided to serve small numbers of houses at the street-
side remote from the Water Main. This rider Main shall be looped back to
the Water Main. Individual house Service Connections shall be provided
off the rider Main;
3.5.19 Water Mains should be laid to provide the optimum circulation in the local
water network. Water Mains may terminate in a dead end only with Irish
Water approval, in which case a washout hydrant, located within a
Chamber or kiosk, shall be provided at the dead end;
3.5.20 Valves shall be arranged at junctions and spine Water Mains in such a
manner so as to ensure that water shut-down will affect no more than 40
properties at any one time;
3.5.21 Water Mains greater than 300mm in diameter laid under heavily trafficked
roads shall be ductile iron;
3.5.22 Looped Water Mains shall return to the spur Main downstream of a sluice
valve to allow for one directional flushing;
3.5.23 The location of hydrants should be such that they can be accessed in an
emergency. Hydrants should not be located in roads or parking areas. Off-
line hydrants shall have dead end pipe lengths of 3.0m or less;
3.5.24 Where possible, a hydrant should be located within 20m of each junction;
3.5.25 No domestic property within a Development shall be more than 46m from
a hydrant. Hydrant details and locations shall be subject to the approval of
the relevant Fire Authority. This requirement should not take account of
dead-end or wash-out hydrants which are used for operational flushing. A
hydrant shall not be closer than 6m to a property;
3.5.26 Fire hydrants should not be supplied from Water Mains of less than
100mm internal diameter;
3.5.27 The location of branch valves, hydrants or other apparatus shall be to the
agreement of Irish Water;

39
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.5.28 Where a Water Main is located in an area of restricted access such as

under motorways, canals, railways, rivers etc., a duplicate Water Main (or
a sleeve with a replacement Main) shall be installed to maintain water
supply in the event of a problem with the live Main until access is available
to carry out repairs. The second Main shall be the same as the first Main in
regards to material, diameter and flow capacity. Isolation valves shall be
provided on both sides of the inaccessible area to allow the water supply
to be redirected between the live main and the duplicate Main;
3.5.29 Where a Water Main is to be located within a structure such as a bridge or
culvert, the Developer shall consult with Irish Water to establish if the
Water Main is be duplicated. In most instances Irish Water may require
that the Mains are placed within sleeves to facilitate easy replacement of
the pipe. In general, however, Irish Water discourages the construction of
Water Mains within bridge or culvert structures and the installation of the
Mains across the watercourse adjacent to the bridge/culvert structure is
preferred;
3.5.30 Surface water attenuation tanks shall not be constructed over Water
Mains.
3.5.31 Irish Water will require the Developer to provide bulk metering of the water
supply connection to Developments with a water demand exceeding 20 m3
per day. The bulk meter will be linked to an Irish Water telemetry data
collection system in cases where the water demand exceeds 200 m3 per
day. Developments with water demands less than 20 m3 per day will not
require a flow meter but separate infrastructure shall be provided in these
developments to measure night flow (Refer to Section 3.15.4 below). Irish
Water will choose and supply the bulk meter and associated equipment
based on the range of flow at the Development.
3.5.32 Where there is the possibility of connecting into or extending the Works
into adjoining land that is not developed, the Water Mains shall be
extended to the boundary if required by Irish Water and easements for
these extensions provided and executed to include Irish Water as the
named beneficiary as part of the overall easement for Water and
Wastewater Services Infrastructure for the Development (Refer to Section
1.23 above);
3.5.33 Pressure control shall be provided at the take-off point of the new
connection if required to control high pressures by way of a pressure
reducing valve (PRV). Where possible their need shall be determined in
advance but in some cases Irish Water may require these to be installed
after the Main is made live. The cost of this work shall be borne by the
Developer. The need for PRVs shall be agreed with Irish Water. Pressure
sustaining valves (PSV) may be required in specific exceptional
circumstances and only by agreement with Irish Water. The PRVs and
PSVs will be chosen and supplied by Irish Water for installation in
Developer supplied Chambers;

40
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.5.34 Individual Service Connections shall generally not be taken across roads
and their length shall be kept to a minimum. The provisions outlined
Section 3.5.18 above may be used to limit long Service Connections;
3.5.35 Water Mains shall be laid in common areas and not through individual
private gardens or driveways etc.;
3.5.36 Any redundant water services shall be traced back to the Irish Water
Network by the Developer and shall be blanked off by Irish Water at the
Developer’s expense;
3.5.37 Any existing lead services pipes to the site shall be replaced/made
redundant at no cost to Irish Water. This work shall be carried out to the
satisfaction of Irish Water;
3.5.38 Water Main bends and road crossings should be kept to an absolute
minimum;
3.5.39 A three-way sluice valve arrangement shall be provided at all Water Main
junctions;
3.5.40 The Water Main pipework to new Developments should be located at the
right hand side of the entrance to the new Development (from a view
facing into the Development) if possible, and where the properties served
are equally or reasonably distributed at both sides of the estate roadway;

Specific additional requirements to those outlined above are elaborated upon and set
out below in the following paragraphs.

Branch pipes off spine Mains should have isolation valves installed to separately control
all of the flows downstream of the pipe junction. Three valves to a junction are required
to allow the flow of water to be directed in both directions. The need for additional ‘in-
line’ valves is dependent on the housing density and operational requirements such as
step testing relating to active leakage control. Sluice valves should be situated to ensure
that water flow can be shut off affecting no more than 40 properties at any one time.

Mains should extend no more than 1.2m beyond the final Service Connection to
mitigate dead-end Mains, unless this is absolutely necessary to locate an end hydrant in
a suitable location.

Valves and washout hydrants should be located, as far as is practicable, in footpaths or

verges to facilitate access, for safety reasons and to guard against the impact of traffic,
surface water and silting of Chambers. The location of fire hydrants should be such that
they are accessible in an emergency. Fire hydrants should only be located on paths or
open spaces or approved areas. Where a Water Main is located in a road, the hydrant
should be legged off-line in to the nearest suitable path or open space and connected to
the Water Main with an 80mm spur Main. In some Local authority areas, such legged off
hydrants may require the inclusion of a separate valve on the tee piece of the Main
where the Main is 200mm or greater in diameter. The provision of such valves shall
only be incorporated subject to the approval and knowledge of the Fire Authority.

41
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Irish Water will require a bulk meter to be installed at each new connection point to its
water supply network for Developments with a water demand in excess of 20 m3 per
day. In the case of Developments with a demand less than 20 m3 per day, a meter
Chamber is not required. Bulk meters shall be calibrated and connected to a telemetry
system linked to an Irish Water monitoring system. Where bulk meters are provided, a
bypass meter shall also be provided to allow measurement of night-flow demand.

3.6 Separation Distances

A storm water sewer or a wastewater sewer should generally not be installed to cross
over a Water Main. Where crossing over a water main is unavoidable, joints in the
Water Main shall not be located directly below surface water or Wastewater Sewer
crossings. This requirement also applies to power and telecommunication utilities oil
filled cable systems. No other utility service should be laid longitudinally directly above
the line of the Water Main. Pipe/ducts, cabinets, poles, junction boxes or Chambers
shall not be constructed on top of a Water Main.

Any proposed pipe crossing of the Water Main shall do so at right angles, or as near to
as possible, to avoid prolonged envelopes of influence between the services. Crossings
should be located midway between the Water Main joints with a minimum vertical clear
distance of at least 300mm and up to 500mm in some instances between the pipe and
the Water Main. All such crossings shall be to Irish Water approval and shall not be
undertaken until Irish Water or its agents has examined the work at the crossing point
and deemed it fit for backfilling.

There should be a minimum clear horizontal distance of at least 300mm between the
Water Main and other utilities running parallel to it, as well as to cabinets, poles, junction
boxes or Chambers. The following minimum horizontal clearances to other services
running parallel to the Water Main shall apply:

3.6.1 300mm to Water Mains of less than 300mm diameter;

3.6.2 500mm to trunk Mains between 300mm and 450mm diameter;
3.6.3 3.0m to arterial Water Mains of greater than 450mm diameter;

There shall be a minimum vertical distance of 300mm between the Water Main and
other utilities laid parallel to it, subject to the specific spatial distance requirement of the
utility provider. There shall be a minimum vertical clearance between the Water Main
and any other service crossing over it as follows:

3.6.4 300mm to Water Mains of less than 300mm diameter;

3.6.5 500mm to trunk/arterial Water Mains of 300mm diameter or greater;

Over and above the foregoing, all crossings shall be positioned such that they are at
least 500mm away from any Water Main fitting or joint.

42
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The location of the water Mains relative to other services, structures and obstructions
for a particular Development shall be shown on plan and cross section as part of the
design submission pack, with clearance dimensions clearly identified. Drawings
showing any revisions, during the tendering and construction phase of the Development
should be submitted to Irish Water for approval. No infrastructure installation shall be
advanced without the prior written clearance of Irish Water.

The separation distances outlined above are minimum requirements. Specific

separation clearance distances in excess of these minima shall be provided for services
such as gas, electricity, fibre-optic or oil filled cables as the case may be. The particular
utility providers shall be consulted to determine these minimum separation distances
and evidence of this consultation, with the specified separation distances, shall be
provided to Irish Water at design submission stage. For example, the minimum
separation distances for Gas Networks Ireland infrastructure shall be in accordance with
IS329 ‘Gas Distribution Mains’ and IS328 ‘Code of Practice for Gas Transmission
Mains’ as amended/updated.

In the case of installations to be constructed in close proximity to existing Water

Mains, specific approval of Irish Water shall be obtained. In the case of existing network
pipework, alternative minimum horizontal distances shall be maintained between
pipes/ducts, cabinets, poles, manholes, junction boxes, Chambers, etc., as outlined in
Section 3.25 below.

3.7 Sizing of Water Mains

3.7.1 General

The sizing of Water Mains for new Developments is dependent on the issues outlined in
Section 3.2 above and as elaborated upon below.

The size of Water Mains in a new Development will be primarily contingent on the
pressure availability on the existing water supply network and on Irish Water’s view on
the desired long term pressure for the network in the vicinity of the Development. The
minimum size of Water Main shall be 100mm nominal internal diameter but pipes with
a nominal internal diameter of 80mm may be allowed in certain circumstances and only
after the prior written permission of Irish Water has been obtained. Water Mains of
smaller internal diameter may be allowed in exceptional circumstances where a small
number of dwellings are to be supplied. In these instances, a 25mm minimum pipe size
may be allowed where a single house supply is required, subject to the length of the
service pipe not exceeding 15m. If two dwellings are supplied, the Main size of 32mm
internal diameter may be allowed, again subject to a length of 15m. Reference is to be
made to Section 3.5.17 for the maximum allowable pipe length for pipe diameters of
32mm and less. A pipe of minimum 50mm internal diameter may be allowed for a
supply to house groups of between three and five houses. However, as a guide to the
sizing of Water Mains for a given number of properties, the pipe sizes in the Table
below should be used.

43
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The sizes shown in the Table below are for guidance only and should not be substituted
for conducting an adequate hydraulic assessment taking into account all relevant
factors, such as domestic demand (including consumption demand, household
occupancy, house type, peak demand), fire flow demand, special fittings (such as
sprinkler systems), pipe length, friction factors, flow velocity constraints, head-losses,
ensuring adequate pressure in the network, etc.

Table: Typical Main Size for Multiple Properties

Number of Dwellings Typical Pipe Outside Nominal Bore (Other
Diameter (Polyethylene materials)
Pipes)
1 to 5** Up to 63mm Up to 50mm*
5 to 40** 90mm 80mm
40 to 100 110/125mm 100mm
100 to 300 160/180mm 150mm
300 to 700 225mm 200mm
*Note: Long connections (in excess of 30m) for 50mm internal diameter pipes will not be
allowed in estate developments.
*Note: Long connection (in excess of 15m) for 32mm internal diameter pipes will not be
allowed in estate developments
**Note: Pipe diameters less than 100mm will only be allowed in exceptional
circumstances and only with prior approval of Irish Water.

3.7.2 Water Demand Calculations

Average domestic daily demand in a Development can be established based on daily

per-capita consumption, house occupancy, number of properties, etc. For design
purposes the average daily domestic demand shall be based on a per-capita
consumption of 150 l/person/day and an average occupancy ratio of 2.7 persons per
dwelling. The average day/peak week demand should be taken as 1.25 times the
average daily domestic demand. The peak demand for sizing of the pipe network will
normally be 5.0 times the average day/ peak week demand for Developer use only.
Allowance should be provided on a case by case basis for operational water use within
the supply network. Adequate headroom should also be provided for exceptional
factors. Irish Water will assess the hydraulic design of the proposed pipe network and
may require the use of alternative design parameters on a case by case basis. This may
also include alternative peaking factors appropriate to the size of the proposed
Development, in particular for large Developments where the demand is in excess of
230 m3 per day (approximately equivalent to a demand for a 450 unit housing
Development).

Works will be sized to accommodate the existing and future planned connections based
on pressure and flow profiles to achieve the minimum standard of flow and pressure at
the highest located premises.

44
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Demands for business Developments should be established based on the specific

requirements of such properties. This demand will determine the pipe size required. In
these instances the peaking factor will not be as high as that used for domestic supplies
and will generally be based on the maximum flow requirement from the Development.
Supporting Information relating to the peaking factors used that are in variance to the
above should be submitted to Irish Water for approval prior to internal pipe layout
design.

The demand may be based on a mix of domestic and non-domestic use. In these
instances, a determination of the demand will be based on combining the domestic and
non-domestic demands after applying appropriate peaking factors to the separate
sector demands.

3.8 Service Connections to Individual Premise – Sizing and General Requirements

The size of Service Connection to an individual premise is governed by the requirement

that there should be adequate supply to meet Developer demand at all times whilst
ensuring that water quality is not compromised through the use of oversized pipes.
Service Connection pipes should be a minimum of 25mm outside diameter, 20mm
inside diameter, and should be provided with appropriately sized fittings. However,
service pipes of greater diameter may be required in certain circumstances where a
higher than standard demand is required. Irish Water’s approval of the diameter of the
service pipe shall be obtained in advance of the commencement of the proposed
Development.

The distribution system within premises, along with the internal water supply pipework,
including the overflow pipe from the building’s storage tank, shall be suitably sized to
accommodate a flow from a 20mm inside diameter service connection.

Irish Water requires that every separately occupied premise has an individual Service
Connection pipe supply. The use of common service pipes will not be allowed.
Neither will Irish Water allow cross connection of supplies, e.g. supply from one service
connection providing water supply to another property.

Each Service Connection shall be fitted with a Boundary Box, located at the public side
of the property Curtilage, as close as possible to the property boundary, but separated
by at least 225mm from the face of the boundary. The Boundary Box shall be in
accordance with Irish Water Guidelines and Specification for Boundary Boxes (See
Appendix A) Irish Water will supply the meter and install it within this Boundary Box.
The Service Connection between the Boundary Box and the Water Main shall be laid in
a public area or an area to be taken in charge.

Service Connection pipes should be laid in a straight line from the connection point to
the Boundary Box meter location. The service pipe shall be laid without mechanical
joints between the Water Main Service Connection tapping point and the Boundary Box.
The Distribution System pipe from the Boundary Box to the stop valve within the

45
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

premises shall also be a continuous pipe length without mechanical connections. Where
possible, Service Connections should be installed to enter the right hand side of the
premises entrance when viewed looking towards the front elevation of the property,
provided that this does not result in the meter box being exposed to repeated traffic
movements.

Following Vesting of the Works, Irish Water will be responsible for the Service
Connection between the connection/tapping at the Irish Water Network as far as a point
225mm from the boundary of the Curtilage of the premises, including the boundary
meter box. The property owner is responsible for the Distribution System pipe beyond
this point and in his/her private property and for all internal plumbing.

All business premises shall be provided with an adequately sized Service Connection
based on the demand requirements. All commercial premises will be supplied with
water via a non-domestic meter. In the case of non-domestic or mixed-use premises
(domestic use and non-domestic use), Irish Water is responsible for the Service
Connection to within 225mm of the Curtilage boundary of the property. The property
owner is responsible for the Distribution System connection beyond this point and for all
internal plumbing.

Early guidance should be sought from Irish Water for metering requirements for Service
Connections to flats or multiple premises. Water meters should be installed in these
premises in accordance with Irish Water’s policy on metering.

Each Service Connection pipe should be installed generally perpendicular to the Main.
The service pipe at the take-off point should be installed with a loose slack pipe so that
relative movement between the Water Main and the Service Connection pipe can be
accommodated.

Where practicable, the Service Connection and/or Distribution System pipe should
avoid running beneath drives and parking areas where leakage and spillage of fuels and
solvents may contaminate the ground, resulting in permeation of the buried pipe, risk to
damage of the pipe or taste and odour impact on the water supplied. Where the
installation of pipes beneath drives or parking areas cannot be avoided, suitable pipe
material should be used to avoid contamination of the water supplied.

Service Connection pipes and Chambers should not be laid across third party land, i.e.
land not in the ownership of the premises being supplied or a street/road. Only in
exceptional cases will Irish Water allow the installation of a Service Connection pipe
between the Water Main and the meter box in property other than that which will
become public property and taken in charge by the Local Authority. In these
circumstances, the Developer shall provide an easement for the Service Connection
pipe with Irish Water named as the assignee. Adequate provision shall be made in the
easement documentation to ensure that Irish Water is afforded perpetual rights to enter
the strip in order to maintain their infrastructure.

46
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Service Connections shall not be taken across roads, except with the prior agreement of
Irish Water. In certain circumstances, a rider Main, as outlined in Section 3.5.18 above,
located entirely on public property, may be provided to serve small numbers of houses
at the street-side remote from the Water Main. This rider Main shall be looped back to
the Water Main. Individual house Service Connections shall be provided off the rider
Main.

Where a number of adjacent services would be required to cross an existing road, the
number of crossings may be minimised by the use of a rider Main, as described above,
installed at the side closest to the properties, connected to and looped back into the
water supply Main. In some instances, joint service pipe(s) and a meter manifold could
be used to minimise the number of Service Connections. This arrangement shall be
suitably sized for the number of houses served. Alternatively, a number of service pipes
may be installed in a duct to minimise the number of crossings. Service pipes within this
duct should be laid as a continuous, un-jointed pipe. In these instances, the service duct
should be a blue thermoplastic pipe, laid with slow bends to facilitate installation and/or
removal of the service pipes.

Where two Service Connection pipes share a common trench, the pipes should be laid
no more than 1.0m apart where they cross the street/road. Service pipes should be
individually ducted through structures where they enter a property so that they do not
rest on or are compressed by the brickwork/blockwork structure.

3.9 Materials Selection: Mains and Service Connections

Water Mains suitable for Works and approved by Irish Water shall be either ductile iron
(DI) or polyethylene (PE), with PE80 or PE100 rating (MDPE, HDPE or HPPE). All
plastic water pipes shall be blue in colour. U-PVC pipes shall not be used on water
supply networks, unless a compelling reason is provided for its use. For ease of
maintenance, the preferred Water Main materials are indicated below.

Pipe Size (ID) mm Pipe Material

25 to 80 HDPE and MDPE (PE-80)
100 to 150 HDPE, MDPE (PE 80) and DI
200 to 300 HPPE (PE-100), HDPE, MDPE (PE-80) and DI
350 to 600 HPPE (PE-100) and DI
>600 DI

By exception other materials may be considered but these will require specific Irish
Water agreement and written approval. Such materials would include MoPVC and
CPE/PVC alloys. The risk of impact of contaminated ground on pipe materials should be
a determining factor in the choice of the pipe material selection.

3.9.1 Ductile Iron (DI) pipes shall conform to IS EN 545 and shall have a
minimum C40 pressure rating. Ductile Iron fittings shall have 16 bar rating at
least. All ductile iron pipework shall be coated internally with a blast furnace

47
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

cement lining which complies with the requirements of BS 6920. External

protection shall include an alloy of zinc and aluminium, with a minimum 15%
aluminium, with or without other materials, having a mass of 400 g/m2
complete with a finishing layer of blue fusion bonded epoxy in accordance
with IS EN 14901.

3.9.2 MDPE and HDPE pipes shall be of a type PE-80 and have an SDR-11 or
SDR-17 rating. They shall conform to IS EN 12201: Part 1 and Part 2
(Plastic Systems for Water Supply, Drainage and Sewerage Under
Pressure – Part 1, General, and Part 2, Pipes) and I.S. EN 12201-3 (Plastic
Systems for Water Supply, Drainage and Sewerage Under Pressure – Part
3: Fittings).

3.9.3 HPPE pipes shall be of a type PE-100 and have an SDR-11 or SDR-17
rating. They shall conform to IS EN 12201: Part 1 and Part 2 (Plastic
Systems for Water Supply, Drainage and Sewerage Under Pressure – Part
1, General, and Part 2, Pipes) and I.S. EN 12201-3 (Plastic Systems for
Water Supply, Drainage and Sewerage Under Pressure – Part 3: Fittings).

Polyethylene pipes shall also conform to the following UK Water Industry Specifications
(WIS):

3.9.4 WIS 4-32-08 – Specification for the fusion jointing of polyethylene pressure
pipeline systems using PE80 and PE100 materials,
3.9.5 IGN 4-32-18 – The Choice of Pressure Rating for Polyethylene Pipe
Systems for Water Supply and Sewerage Systems,
3.9.6 WIS 4-32-19 – Specification for polyethylene pressure pipeline systems
with an aluminium barrier layer for potable water supply in contaminated
land,
3.9.7 IGN 4-01-03 – Pressure Testing of Pressure Pipes and Fittings for use by
Public Water Supplies

In very exceptional circumstances, where specific Irish Water approval is provided to

the use of MoPVC pipes, they shall conform to the UK Water Industry Specification No.
4-31-08 and ISO 16422, and manufacturers shall operate a quality system in
compliance with BS EN ISO 9001.

In very exceptional circumstances, where specific Irish Water approval is provided to

the use of CPE/PVC alloy pressure pipes, they shall conform to BS PAS 27. All fittings
shall conform to this standard also.

Service Connection pipes suitable for Works shall be of MDPE or HDPE (PE-80)
material with SDR-11 or SDR-17 rating. All plastic water Service Connection pipes shall
be blue in colour. (HPPE (PE-100) material with SDR-11 and SDR-17 rating may also
be used though this pipe is less flexible.) An alternative pipe material, to Irish Water’s
written approval, shall be provided where pressure in the Works is greater than the

48
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

performance rating of these materials. The MDPE, HDPE and HPPE service pipes shall
comply with IS EN 12201 Part 2 (Plastic Systems for Water Supply, Drainage and
Sewerage Under Pressure – Part 2, Pipes) and IS EN 12201 Part 3 (Plastic Systems for
Water Supply, Drainage and Sewerage Under Pressure – Part 3: Fittings) and with UK
WIS 4-32-08 (Specification for the fusion jointing of polyethylene pressure pipeline
systems using PE80 and PE100 materials).

The Developer shall determine the Pressure Class of pipe that is required having regard
to the pressure at the connection point and the maximum in-service operating pressure.
The sizing of service connections to any premises and the approval of fittings for this
purpose must be obtained in advance from Irish Water.

Jointing of pipes should be carried out in accordance with the requirements of the
Standards associated with the pipe material selected.

3.10 Pipe Joints

3.10.1 General

Pipe joints shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for the pipe
material. Pipe joints will generally be one of the following:

 Push in rubber ring joint;

 Bolted flanged joint;
 Flexible mechanical coupling with protective coating;
 Fusion welded joints where the site fusion jointing shall be strictly in
accordance with UK WIS 4-32-08, 2016 (Specification for Fusion Jointing
of Polyethylene Pressure Pipeline Systems Using PE80 and PE100
Materials) and with BS ISO 21307:2017 (Plastic Pipes and Fittings – Butt
Fusion Jointing Procedures for Polyethylene (PE) Piping Systems.
 Equipment used for butt fusion and electrofusion welding shall be in
accordance with BS ISO 12176 (Plastic Pipe Fittings – Equipment for
Fusion Jointing Polyethylene Pipe Systems – Part 1 Butt Fusion, Part 2
Electro Fusion).
 Equipment used for butt fusion and electrofusion welding shall have CE
Certification and shall be calibrated on a 6-monthly basis.

Bolted flanged joint shall have raised face flanges complete with nuts and bolts to IS EN
ISO 898 and double metal washers to BS 4320. Nuts, bolts and washers to be
protected against corrosion in accordance with WIS 4-52-03. Flange assemblies,
including nuts, bolts, washers and gaskets to be designed to meet a working and test
pressure of 16 bar and 24 bar respectively.

All pipes and joints shall be subjected to appropriate tests as outlined in Section 4.10
below.

49
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.10.2 Jointing of Polyethylene Pipes

In advance of commencing pipe installation on site, the Developer shall provide a

specific method statement to the Irish Water field engineer for review/assessment
outlining the butt fusion and electrofusion jointing processes for polyethylene pipes that
will be carried out on site. This shall be additional to the requirements for Method
Related Statements as set out in Section 2.3.20 above.

The Developer shall adopt and follow any and all applicable quality control procedures
for all joints on polyethylene pipes for both butt fusion and electrofusion as well as for
mechanical jointing systems. In addition, the Developer shall follow the manufacturer’s
requirements but these shall not take precedence over good site practices.

Butt fusion and electro fusion jointing of polyethylene pipes shall only be carried out by
appropriately trained and experienced operatives in possession of a current relevant
Training Certificate. Training should be certified and equivalent to City and Guilds
qualifications. Jointing personnel should have and be able to confirm a minimum of one
year’s experience in successfully completing pipe welding under “live” construction
conditions. Jointing shall be completed using fully automatic or pre-approved jointing
machine/rigs in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. In relation to electro
fusion jointing, the jointing machine shall incorporate a remote inspection/monitoring
system, which allows for real time inspection of the weld integrity or a data download
facility. The identity of the polyethylene (PE80, PE100) pipeline manufacturer shall be
made known to Irish Water prior to commencement of the installation. Certification and
testing (including independent third party certification) shall be provided to confirm
quality assurance compliance. Each joint shall be clearly marked with the joint logged
automatically on the jointing machine, in a format to the satisfaction of the Irish Water
field engineer. A printout of the joint details, with an as-constructed drawing complete
with GPS location and geo-located photograph of each joint, shall be provided and
retained for quality assurance purposes. In addition to the data log report, the welders
own record / ledger must also be maintained and provided as part of the quality
assurance documentation. All fusion welds shall be undertaken in an enclosure (e.g.
tent) to minimise the effects of wind and rain on the jointing process and to prevent
contamination from wind borne dust. All personnel carrying out pipe jointing shall have
appropriate training in health and safety and shall follow all safety procedures laid down
for welding.

3.10.3 Auditing and Testing of Polyethylene Pipe Joints

Each installation team and welding equipment unit will be audited by the Irish Water
field engineer prior to commencement of welding on site and on a regular basis
thereafter. Where it is deemed necessary by the field engineer, Irish Water may require
the Developer to procure an audit from an independent accredited auditor. The audit
reports from this independent auditor shall be provided to the Irish Water field engineer
on a regular basis. Each installation and welding team shall also be audited by the
Developer’s Construction Engineer on a weekly basis or more frequently if required by

50
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

the Irish Water field engineer. All of these audits will use a standard checklist to ensure
that all the correct equipment and working practices are being utilised.

Weekly equipment checks and regular supervision of the welding equipment shall be
carried out by the Developer and reports on these checks will be inspected by the Irish
Water field engineer.

The destructive weld testing and analysis shall be carried out by a specialist and
accredited testing organisation who will take the samples, deliver the sample for testing,
test the joint and report on the result, thus ensuring that a chain of custody is
maintained on all test samples. The Developer’s contractor shall provide details of his
proposed testing organisation to the Irish Water field engineer for review and approval
prior to any testing being undertaken.

Joint tests complying with WIS 4-32-08, (2016) shall be carried out for each pipe
diameter containing electro fusion welds used by the Developer’s contractor’s personnel
and welded by the equipment to be used for Works. These shall be in accordance with
ISO 13954 for assembly socket fittings > 90mm, in accordance with ISO 13955 for
assembly socket fittings < 90mm and in accordance with ISO 13956 for saddle
assemblies. Where possible, at least 6 strips should be taken from a welded coupler for
testing, with a lower number of strips taken for smaller diameter units. Samples shall be
cut from each end of the joint spaced at equidistant intervals around the joint
circumference. Similarly, joint tests complying with WIS 4-32-08, (2016) (in accordance
with ISO 13953) shall be carried out for each pipe diameter containing butt fusion welds
used by the Contractor’s personnel and welded by the equipment to be used for Works.
The tests shall be undertaken by an independent laboratory accredited by the Irish
National Accreditation Board or equivalent. Reports in a format acceptable to Irish
Water on these tests shall be provided to the Irish Water field engineer for review.

Prior to the commencement of polyethylene pipe laying works, pipe joint sample testing
shall be carried out for all pipe sizes to be used in the Works. One initial sample test
butt-fusion weld per designated butt-fusion crew and one initial sample test electro-
fusion weld per designated electro-fusion crew shall be cut and taken for testing. These
shall be taken for each pipe size per designated crew on pipes that are to form part of
the Works.

During the installation of pipework, butt fusion welds and electro-fusion welds shall be
cut out from the polyethylene pipes associated with the Works completed and shall be
subjected to a destructive test, in accordance with the test procedures in WIS 4-32-08
(2016), as outlined above. The weld joint chosen for testing will be as indicated by the
Irish Water field engineer. All weld samples shall be clearly labelled and referenced.
The rate of testing of the joints shall be as follows:
 A minimum of one butt-fusion weld per designated butt-fusion crew per week and
one electrofusion weld per designated electrofusion crew per week shall be cut
out from the polyethylene pipes associated with the Works and tested. This
minimum frequency of destructive testing shall be increased as directed by the

51
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

field engineer if recurrent failure rates occur or if issues arise from auditing of
welding crews and equipment. The sample test frequency is additional to the
works test frequency outlined above.
 In addition to the initial and weekly weld joint testing outlined above, testing of the
installed pipe joints shall be undertaken on joints as selected by the Irish Water
field engineer. The frequency of joints testing on the polyethylene pressure main
that has been installed in the Works shall be at least one test per 30 joints made
on site, with a minimum of five tests in smaller Developments, or as directed by
the field engineer. The test joint shall be chosen at random by the Irish Water
field engineer.

All tests shall be carried out at the expense of the Developer and this shall include for all
costs associated with the taking of, testing, analysis of and transportation of samples as
well as the required reporting of the test results. All costs associated with auditing shall
also be at the expense of the Developer.

The Contractor shall arrange for the selected installed joint samples to be tested in
accordance with WIS 4-32-08, IS EN 12201 – Part 5, and with ISO 13953, ISO 13954,
ISO 13955 and ISO 13956 (as appropriate and listed above) by an accredited
laboratory (accreditation by the Irish National Accreditation Board or equivalent) and a
test report, in a format required by Irish Water, shall be provided to Irish Water’s field
inspectors within 1 week of the sample joint being taken. The report should indicate the
test result, the failure mode of samples (Wasted Specimens), the specific joint
identification data (Welders Name, Joint Number, Weld Date, Machine I.D, Date that the
sample joint was received by Testing Facility) on the test report and results, along with
clear photos of the joints prior to sampling with the IW engineers signature present on
the pipe, photos of the tested wasted specimens and in addition particular photos of any
individual wasted specimens that were classified as a failure.

Where welds have failed, the Contractor shall excavate, cut out, and provide the welds
carried out immediately before and immediately after the failed joint for additional
testing.

The Contractor shall note that if the results of any of these two additional weld tests
indicate that a weld is not in compliance with WIS 4-32-08, i.e. a weld failure, then the
Developer shall be required, at his/her own expense, to remove and replace all welds
from the date of the last verifiable weld test found to be in compliance with WIS 4-32-08,
performed by the particular welding machine and designated crew who completed the
weld that failed. The welding machine and designated crew shall be prohibited from
performing further welds until they have undertaken and passed a second site audit. If
any additional work undertaken by designated crew is persistently at fault, they shall be
prohibited from undertaking further welds until re-training shall be carried out.

All butt fusion joints shall be de-beaded and the bead referenced and kept for
inspection. Beads shall be examined upon removal for signs of defects or splitting
along the length of the bead joint. For butt fusion welding, completed welds shall be de-

52
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

beaded and the weld bead shall be inspected on site by the welding crew. Beads shall
be labelled, bagged and stored by the Developer’s contractor and access shall be
provided to the Irish Water field engineer to inspect the weld beads when requested.

The provision of the sample and all costs associated with their provision including
restoring the pipe to service and reinstatement will be borne by the
Contractor. Untested sample welds shall be properly catalogued and stored by the
Contractor until the end of the Defect Liability Period. The sample welds thus stored
shall remain the property of Irish Water and shall be made available to the Irish Water’s
field inspectors at any time for testing should it be so directed.

Pipe coils will only be permitted to be used for pipe diameters of 125mm OD and below.
Pipe ovality on coiled pipes can have a detrimental effect on the integrity of
electrofusion joints on both socket and saddle type fittings. Hydraulic re-rounding
clamps and steel re-rounding inserts must be used to permit a straight length of pipe to
be electrofusion jointed to the ends of the coil. The pipe profile within the area of the coil
to be jointed shall be re-rounded to within the limits of ovality prescribed by BS EN
1201-3.

A coil of PE pipe length with a diameter greater than 100mm OD shall require the use
three electrofusion couplers to joint any additional PE coil length to it. Two lengths of
straight stick PE pipe (min length 500mm) shall be used to join the coils together. A
coupler shall join the straight sticks to the ends of each coil, a third coupler shall then be
used to electro fuse the straight sticks sections together.

Coils of PE pipe lengths with diameter less than 100mm OD shall be joined by using
two electrofusion couplers to joint one length of straight stick PE pipe (min length of
500mm) between them.

All pipe joints, fittings and accessories shall be free from lead.

3.11 Depth of Cover

The desirable minimum depth of cover from the finished ground level to the external
crown of a single premise Service Connection pipe shall be 750mm with an absolute
minimum of 600mm for short distances (subject to Irish Water agreement). The
desirable depth of cover at the Boundary Box should be 600mm +\- 25mm, with a
maximum depth of 750mm.

The minimum depth of cover from the finished ground level to the external crown of a
Water Main shall be 900mm where the pipe is to be located in housing estate roads or
on road verges. A greater depth of cover and/or greater strength pipe and/or a higher
class of bedding may be required where higher traffic loading is anticipated. Depths
may be altered to avoid obstructions, including separation distances between other
utility services. The desirable depth of cover for a water main shall be 1,200mm, where

53
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

practicable and should not exceed 3.0m. The desirable maximum cover for service
connection pipe should be 1,200mm, where practicable.

The primary approach should be to provide the pipe with the required depth of cover as
outlined above. However, if this cannot be achieved due to unavoidable technical
reasons, resulting in the depth of cover to the crown of the pipe being less than the
values set out above, pipe protection measures shall be provided. Consultation with
Irish Water is required in relation to the provision of these measures. The protection
measures, as described in Section 4.8, may be employed, the provision of a reinforced
concrete slab designed to spread the imposed traffic load away from the pipe, slab to be
a minimum of 150mm thickness and constructed of C30/35 to IS EN 206. The protection
measures shall extend for the distance where the depth is below the limits outlined
above. These protection measures, where required, shall be agreed with Irish Water in
advance of construction. Any proposals for the reduction in cover to the Pipe shall be
accompanied by design calculations to address loading and frost risk as well as any
other relevant design issues.

3.12 Roadway/Footway Surface Reinstatement

Roadway’s/footway’s surface finishes above the trench backfill and pipe granular
surround material in new Developments shall be to the requirements of the Roads
Authority in whose functional area the Development is located and/or as outlined in the
Planning Permission for the Development.

Reinstatement of trench surfaces in existing Public Roads shall be to the requirements

of the relevant Local Authority Roads Department’s Road Opening Licence, unless
otherwise specified by Irish Water. This will require compliance with the “Guidelines for
the Opening, Backfilling and Reinstatement of Trenches in Public Roads”, 2nd Edition, or
subsequent amendments published by Department of the Transport, Tourism and
Sport.

The reinstatement of trenches on National Roads shall be in accordance with the TII
“Specification for the Reinstatement of Openings in National Roads” or subsequent
amendments published by Transport Infrastructure Ireland, unless otherwise specified.

3.13 Boosted Water Supplies

It should be noted that Irish Water may, at its discretion, adjust the pressure in its
Network as it sees fit for operational reasons, but with the objective of maintaining an
adequate pressure at the Curtilage of properties. Developments which involve buildings
greater than two storeys in height and/or requiring a supply pressure in excess of the
15m head at the Curtilage of the property should be made known to Irish Water

The Local Authority for the area where the Development is being undertaken, acting as
the Building Control Authority, will have specific requirement for the building’s proposed
internal pressure boosting arrangements and these requirements shall apply. For any

54
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

proposed internal or private pressure boosting arrangements, details of the proposed

boosting arrangements shall be made known to Irish Water at Design Submission and
Connection Application stage for review. The typical Building Control Authority’s
requirements would generally comprise the following:

3.13.1 Buildings in these Developments should be equipped with balancing tanks

and booster pumps on the rising Main to the top storey units to ensure
adequate pressure to the premises.
3.13.2 Indirect pressure boosting will only be permitted as this may impact the
service provision within the Irish Water supply network for other users, i.e.,
pumping from a break pressure cistern, supplied from Irish Water’s
Network.
3.13.3 In line boosting may be acceptable where the required demand does not
exceed 10 litres per minute, but this will only be allowed with the written
approval of Irish Water.
3.13.4 All booster pumps with a capacity in excess of 10 litres per minute shall be
fed from a break tank/cistern. The effective capacity of the break pressure
tank/cistern to be decided after consideration of the total water storage
requirements and its location within the building, but should not be less
than 30 minute pump-out capacity.
3.13.5 Separate break pressure tank compartments may be required for multi-
block units and for Maintaining supply during cleaning and servicing.

The Developer shall be responsible for the maintenance of the break tank/cistern. In this
regard, in addition to providing isolation devices and anti-backflow fittings, as described
below, a suitable maintenance schedule must be put in place to avoid any
contamination, misuse, etc. of the equipment.

It is the responsibility of the designer to establish the requirement of the building’s water
supply system. It is also the role of the designer to ensure that the boosting proposal is
sufficient to meet the requirements of the Development, the requirements of the Building
Control Authority and subject to requirements that Irish Water may wish to impose in
order to protect the its Network. The designer shall supply the building owner and /or
the management company with full details of the booster system and break tank
installation. These details shall form part of a maintenance schedule for the system
including cleaning of the break cistern, which will be to the requirements of the Building
Control Authority.

The Developer will retain responsibility for the private side Distribution Systems within
premises, including the break pressure tank and booster equipment. Irish Water will not
take charge of or be responsible for these Distribution System works. Water quality
within the system must be maintained and Irish Water will not be responsible for
inadequate water quality arising from private side Distribution Systems. Likewise, an
acceptable isolation device shall be provided using a connection via an unrestricted air-
gap device (AA Type device, IS EN 1717) to prevent backflow from the internal water

55
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Distribution System to Irish Water’s Network to prevent the risk of backflow

contamination.

Before installing booster pump(s) full details of the proposed installation shall be
provided to Irish Water and the relevant Local Authority. The effective capacity of the
break cistern shall be decided after due consideration of the total water storage
requirements and its location within the building, subject to it being not less than 30
minutes pump output as outlined above, unless otherwise approved by Irish Water.

The break tank/cistern should be a closed vessel having a tightly fitting access cover,
bolted or screwed in position. It shall be suitably maintained, inspected regularly and
cleaned when necessary. It shall be coated to preserve the wholesome quality of the
water. It shall have an air inlet and overflow pipe or pipes, all suitably screened to
prevent vermin access. It shall, where necessary, be insulated against temperature
changes and be supplied exclusively from a service pipe with a ball valve. A sampling
tap shall be provided on the inlet pipe feed to the break tank/cistern for the use of Irish
Water for quality sampling purposes.

3.14 Boundary Boxes

All Service Connections shall include the installation of an approved Boundary Box
(meter box) with integral stopcock (the use of traditional stopcock has been
discontinued) and suitable for the reception of a water meter. The provision of the
Boundary Box and meter shall be in line with Irish Water guidelines. The Boundary Box
shall be a telescopic type, self-contained Chamber system with Class B or Class C
covers in accordance with BS 5834. Developer s shall consult with Irish Water in
relation to the approved types of Boundary Boxes. A specification for Boundary Boxes
suitable for use in assets to be taken in charge by Irish Water is outlined in Appendix A
herewith.

Boundary Boxes in association with pressure reducing valves for individual premises
shall be provided where necessary and with the specific approval of Irish Water.

The Boundary Box shall be located as near as possible to the Curtilage boundary but
set back such minimum distance necessary from the face of the boundary to avoid
foundation footings, etc. They shall be located on a footway or service strip, off the
public road/street and, if possible, sited to avoid vehicle crossing points, drives and
parking areas to ensure future maintenance requirements are achievable.

On completion of the Service Connection and meter installation, the fittings will be left in
the closed position.

The proposed Distribution System to communal residential Developments or

commercial facilities shall facilitate the installation of approved individual meters to each
individual unit or business within the Development and agreed by Irish Water. A
connection to the Development will not be provided until this requirement is met.

56
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The number of separate service connections from the Network to multi unit low-rise
buildings should be minimised were feasible by the use of a manifold boundary box,
compliant with an Irish Water specification or as approved by Irish Water, at the end of a
suitably sized shared service pipe. Each of the dwellings should have a separate supply
pipe, meter and stop valve within the communal boundary box. All pipes should be
identified appropriately and labelled properly. All supply pipes associated with any one
manifold should be ready for connection to the Distribution System pipe in one visit. All
meters in the manifold shall be tagged to indicate which property is supplied and any
unused outlets are to be blanked off.

Where Boundary Boxes are to be installed close to each other, there should be
adequate space (500mm) around them to allow adequate compaction between and
around them as well as subsequent reinstatement and possible future repair and
replacement.

A concrete surround plinth shall be provided to the Boundary Box cover at ground level
where the finished surface is to be either unbound (grass verge), brick paving or
macadam. The surround shall be constructed of C20/25 concrete to IS EN 206
complete with bull-nose finish to its perimeter and shall be provided with a mild steel
reinforcement link. Alternatively a pre-cast concrete plinth may be provided.

3.15 Meters

3.15.1 General

Meters to measure water use will be installed in Boundary Boxes (for concentric meters)
or Chambers (for inline meters) on each Service Connection supplying a commercial
premise. Domestic connections shall be made “meter ready” by the provision of a
Boundary Box on the service connection. The Developer shall supply and install the
Boundary Box. Irish Water or its agents will install water meters in the Boundary Boxes
and in the meter Chambers once the Premises are ready for occupation.

Bulk flow meters, measuring the total Development’s water use, shall be provided at the
connection point of the Works to the Irish Water’s Network in cases where the daily
demand of the Development exceeds 20 m3 per day. These bulk meters shall be
capable of measuring minimum night flow demand either directly or by the provision of
an associated night flow meter.

In Developments with a daily demand less than 20 m3 per day, there is no requirement
to install a bulk flow meter to measure water demand of the Development. However,
infrastructure shall be provided for the measurement of night flows at the entrance to
the Development. This shall be achieved by the installation of a sluice valve on the Main
with a domestic sized tapping at either side of the valve linked by a 25mm internal
diameter polyethylene pipe to a domestic sized meter located in a Boundary Box.

57
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Reference should be made to Section 2.6 above in relation to the minimum general
requirements for metering. All meters used to measure water flow along with associated
accessories and technology will remain the property of Irish Water irrespective of who
installs the meters or whether they are located on public or private property. The
Developer shall not add any other technology either directly or indirectly to collect meter
readings or other data without the written permission of Irish Water.

Meter chambers for water meters, bulk flow meters and associated pipework for
residential Developments and commercial premises shall be constructed by the
Developer in accordance with requirements outlined in Section 3.19. The Developer
shall install an appropriately sized spool piece in the meter Chamber in lieu of an inline
meter. Irish Water or its agents will subsequently install water meters in the chambers in
the position occupied by the spool piece. Where strainers are required for mechanical
meters, Irish Water will also install this unit. The Developer shall install an appropriately
sized spool piece in the strainer Chamber in lieu of the strainer unit.

The proposed Distribution System to multi unit residential Developments or commercial

facilities shall facilitate the installation of individual meters to each individual unit or
business within the Development. A connection to the Development will not be provided
until this requirement is met.

3.15.2 Domestic Meters

Domestic connections shall be made “meter ready” by the Developer by the provision of
a Boundary Box on the service connection. Domestic meters will be installed by Irish
Water’s agents in accordance with Irish Water’s metering policy. Domestic meters,
where required, will be installed for individual Premises in Boundary Boxes by Irish
Water or its agents and will be to Irish Water’s requirements and compatible with the
automatic meter reading (AMR) system in use. Meters for apartments and similar
properties will be installed internally within the Premises in accordance with the Building
Control Authority’s requirements and subject to review by Irish Water.

In high-rise or low-rise multi unit Premises, characterised by the requirement for

pumping to upper floors and where there is a shared service pipe from the tank/pump to
each floor, provision shall be made for meters to be installed in service cupboards along
with individual stop valves to isolate the property and meter location. The water service
pipe work must be arranged such that each unit can be individually metered. It is the
Developer’s responsibility to install the manifold (or pipe insert) into the plumbing
system which will facilitate the future installation of the water meter. The meter
cupboards should be installed at a level no higher than 1.50m on each floor level and in
a location where a meter reader can be comfortably maintained and exchanged (if
necessary) in the future.

58
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.15.3 Meters for Commercial Premises

Meters shall be installed by Irish Water or its agents from the time that any commercial
premise derives beneficial use of Irish Water’s services. This may only arise following
the completion of the commissioning of the Works subsequent to issue of the
Conformance Certificate and the connection of the Works to Irish Water’s Network. All
commercial meters shall be installed in meter Boundary Boxes or meter Chambers to
Irish Water requirements and be compatible with the automatic meter reading (AMR)
system. The Developer shall provide these Boundary Boxes and Chamber and Irish
Water will subsequently install the meters.

3.15.4 Bulk Meters

Bulk flow meters will be selected, supplied and fitted by Irish Water or its agents based
on the flow requirements provided by the Developer and they will be installed in meter
Chambers provided by the Developer. These meters will be supplied and installed by
Irish Water at the expense of the Developer and these meters will remain the property
of Irish Water. The Chambers provided by the Developer shall be appropriately sized
and incorporating appropriate fittings to allow the installation of the meter, with sufficient
space and clearance, especially beneath the meter, to allow fitting replacement and
maintenance work to be carried out. Reference shall be made to Irish Water’s Standard
Detail Drawings in this regard.

The meter shall be located with sufficient free-flow straight pipe lengths upstream and
downstream of the meter to ensure that flow measurement accuracy is not
compromised. The metered connection shall consist of a sluice valve, a straight length
of pipework at least 10 times the diameter of the meter in length upstream of the meter,
an Irish Water supplied water meter, a straight length of pipework at least 5 times the
meter diameter in length downstream of the meter and a sluice valve. An off-line
hydrant shall be located on the pipework downstream of an electromagnetic meter
Chamber along with a sluice valve. The provision of the hydrant and sluice valve is to
allow occasional flow testing and checking of the electromagnetic meter. A hydrant is
not required downstream of a mechanical meter Chamber but a sluice valve shall be
provided.

Bulk meters will be selected by Irish Water and will be either mechanical meters or non-
mechanical (electro-magnetic) meters and the use of either will be dependent on the
anticipated flow rate to be measured and the function of the meter. The mechanical
meters may be provided with appropriate strainers in accordance with Irish Water’s
requirements. Irish Water will advise the Developer if a strainer Chamber is required.
They will be compatible with the Irish Water automatic meter reading (AMR) system.

Mechanical meters or electro-magnetic flow meters may be used where fire flow is not
required, Irish Water will specify the type of meter to be used for connections where fire
flow is and is not required. Irish Water will also specify a suitable connection that will
address fire flow, water conservation and revenue measurement requirements. Where

59
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

the fire flow requirements, as advised by the Fire Authority, are incompatible with the
performance characteristics of the meter, a by-pass arrangement of the meter may be
required subject to the approval of Irish Water.

The bulk flow meters will be supplied with an associated telemetry system, to Irish
Water’s Telemetry Specification, to measure the water demand of Developments with a
demand in excess of 20 m3 per day. The telemetry system will be selected and supplied
by Irish Water in accordance with its Specification for Telemetry and may vary from
location to location depending on the existing telemetry system in use in the existing
water supply system. Irish Water will supply the Telemetry system and recover its cost
from the Developer under the Connection Agreement. This equipment will remain the
property of Irish Water. Such telemetry systems may require the provision of electricity
and telecom service supplies. It shall be the responsibility of the Developer to clarify the
requirement and provide details to Irish Water at design stage. The telemetry equipment
shall be located in a kiosk adjacent to the meter location. Appropriate ducting shall be
provided between the meter Chamber and the telemetry kiosk by the Developer.

Where the demand of a Development or estate exceeds 20 m3 per day (equivalent to

approximately 40 domestic houses), but less than 200 m3 per day, bulk flow meter with
a SMS/GPRS telemetry data-logger, with capability to record flow and pressure at
regular intervals. Mechanical meters will be provided for housing Developments with 40
– 249 units, while non-mechanical (electromagnetic) meters will be provided in
Developments of 250 units and above. The telemetry system will be located in an
adjoining kiosk for all non-mechanical meters.

Kiosks will also be required for the telemetry system for mechanical meters if the
Chamber is positioned in a trafficked area, though the location of the Chamber in
trafficked areas should be avoided for operational safety. Kiosks will not be required for
mechanical meters if the Chamber is located on a non-trafficked area. The meter and
the telemetry system will be selected, supplied and fitted by Irish Water to its
requirements and the Developer shall provide the infrastructure to accommodate the
meter and the telemetry facilities.

A bulk meter (non-mechanical) and associated telemetry system shall be provided to

measure the flow for Developments with a daily demand exceeding 200 m3 per day
(equivalent to approximately 400 housing units). The meter and the telemetry system
will be selected, supplied and fitted by Irish Water to its requirements and the Developer
shall provide the infrastructure to accommodate the meter and the telemetry facilities.
The telemetry system will be located in an adjoining kiosk for all non-mechanical
meters.

Where the flows to Developments or estate are less than 20 m3 per day, a flow meter
will not be required to measure flows to the Development. However, in these sized
Developments, infrastructure shall be provided for the measurement of night flows by
the installation of a sluice valve with domestic sized tapping linked to a domestic sized
meter and Boundary Box at the entrance to such Developments.

60
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The measurement of minimum night flow will be required for Developments with
demands exceeding 20 m3 per day. If the bulk meter installation is not capable of low-
flow accurate measurement, a by-pass low flow meter will be required with appropriate
valves, fittings, etc. to measure minimum night flows. Alternatively, a proprietary
combination meter, capable of measuring normal flow and minimum night flow, shall be
provided. The meters shall be selected, supplied and fitted by Irish Water and located in
a common, suitably sized, Chamber, provided by the Developer, allowing sufficient
space and clearance as above.

Bulk flow meters will be required in dedicated fire flow Mains, subject to Irish Water’s
requirements. The meters shall be selected, supplied and fitted by Irish Water and
located in a suitably sized, Chamber, provided by the Developer, allowing sufficient
space and clearance as above.

Distribution pipework to apartment blocks and multi-unit Developments will be provided

with a bulk flow meter on the Main supply line. Facilities to measure each individual
residential and non-residential unit shall be provided in a publically accessible location.

3.16 Fittings

3.16.1 General

All fittings, including sluice valves, butterfly valves, scour valves, hydrants, air valves
and meters shall be operable without the need to enter Chambers or other confined
spaces.

3.16.2 Sluice Valves

Sluice valves shall be double flanged with ductile iron resilient seal gate valves, suitable
for use in Water Mains. They shall comply with the requirements of BS 5163, Part 1 and
2 and IS EN 1074, Part 1 and Part 2, and they shall have a CE marking in accordance
with the EU Construction Products Regulations (No. 305/2011 –CPR) and any other
relevant Directives. All flanges shall be drilled to PN 16 in accordance with BS EN 1092
-2 and shall be suitable to accommodate a maximum differential pressure during
operation of 16 bar. Telescopic spindles and shall be fitted with a cast iron square false
cap (complete with grub screw).

The fittings associated with the sluice valve will be dependent on the pipe material of
the Water Main. In ductile iron Mains, the valve shall be fitted with an appropriate
dismantling joint and a flange to plain ended pipe with a flexible coupling at one end, a
flange to plain ended pipe and a flexible coupling at the other end to allow the valve’s
disconnection from the Water Main pipework for maintenance if desired. Puddle flanges
shall be fixed to the flanged to plain ended pipe, as appropriate, to allow it to be secured
to a thrust block. One of the proprietary flexible couplers may not be required on
spigot/socket ductile iron pipes. In polyethylene pipes the valve shall be fitted to an

61
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

appropriate dismantling joint and a stub flange with backing ring at one end and a stub
flange with backing ring at the other end to allow the valve’s disconnection from the
Water Main pipework for maintenance if desired. The stub flanges shall be fusion
welded to the polyethylene Main at both sides of the valve arrangement. Alternative
pipe fitting pieces will be required for other pipe material types.

The depth of the sluice valve stem cap, or the top of an extension spindle, shall not be
less 250mm below the finished ground level and no valve stem cap or spindle cap shall
be greater than 350mm below ground level, while observing the requirements for depth
of cover of the pipe as outlined in Section 3.11 above.

All sluice valves shall be ANTI-CLOCKWISE CLOSING. The direction of closing shall
be imprinted on the valve casing and on the associated valve marker plate. The number
of turns (n) to open/close the valve shall be: n = 2N+1 where N is diameter in inches.
The operating torque must not exceed the max allowed in BS 5163 Part 1 Type B.
Valves in deep Chambers shall be provided with extended spindles, adequately
fixed/braced within the Chamber.

For high unbalanced pressures, a bypass should be provided to the valve. In this case,
to minimise difficulties, the bypass pipe and associated valve should be 5/8 to ¾ times
the size of the main pipeline. Long tapers should be provided on the downstream side of
the valve to avoid head losses. The agreement of Irish Water shall be obtained where
this situation arises to ensure that its installation does not lead to operational difficulties.

The sluice valve surface shall be blue and it shall be protected from corrosion by a
coating in accordance with WIS 4-52-01 or IS EN 14901. For coatings in accordance
with WIS 4-52-01, the internal water-wetted surface shall be coated to Class A standard
while all other surfaces shall be coated to Class B standard.

3.16.3 Butterfly Valves

All valves of 400mm diameter or over are to be butterfly valves. All butterfly valves have
to be capable of being operated remotely with valve actuators, if required. Such valves
and actuators shall be located in specially designed valve Chambers with an automatic
sump pump to prevent water accumulation. Actuators shall be electrically operated and
shall be capable of being activated automatically via a telemetry link. Unless otherwise
specified, and where automatic actuators are not provided, all valves shall be fitted with
extension spindles and square cap key operation. The extension shall be protected with
a plastic (polyethylene) tube.

Butterfly Valves shall be of the double flanged bi-directional type in accordance with BS
EN 593, drilled BS EN 1092, PN16. The valve body and disc shall be manufactured
from Ductile Iron BS 2789 73, Grade 420/12 or greater. The valve disc shall be the
double offset eccentric type and shall be fitted with a non-ageing rubber profile seal.
The profile seal shall be held in place by a fully adjustable one piece clamping ring

62
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

secured with stainless steel screws, mechanically locked in place. The disc stub shall
be manufactured from a high grade stainless steel, and securely fixed to the valve disc.

The valve shall be fitted with a sealed, maintenance free, gearbox, suitable for buried
service duty and capable of sustaining the full required pressure differential. The
gearbox shall have a vertical input shaft and flanged facing for the easy mounting of
electric actuators if required. The gearbox shall be constructed of ductile iron and the
number of turns shall be between 2N+1 and 4N+1, where “N” is the equivalent diameter
in inches.

For actuated valves, the gearbox shall be prepared for mounting an electrical actuator.
Decision on the need for an actuator will be made by Irish Water on receipt of the
proposed pipeline design.

All valve areas must incorporate a flat support area on both flanges. All internal and
external surfaces shall be coated with a WRC approved epoxy corrosion protection. The
valve bore, including the seat area must be fusion bonded with enamel to prevent any
formation of encrustation or support bacterial growth.

Valves shall be hydraulically tested with the body tested to minimum of 17 bar but
higher test requirements may be required for specific areas.

Generally, Water Mains of 400mm and greater will not be required in housing
Developments.

3.16.4 Scour Valves

Scour valves shall be double flanged with ductile iron resilient seal gate valves as
outlined in Section 3.16.2 above. Scour valves shall have the following minimum
diameters:

Diameter of Water Main (mm) Diameter of Scour (mm)

Not exceeding 75 50
100 to 200 75
200 to 600 100 - 200

Scour valves and outlet pipes for large diameter Mains shall be sized for both rapid
emptying time and on the assimilative capacity of the downstream receiving waterway.
Where scour pipes discharge to a surface water system, it is essential that the surface
water pipe has adequate capacity to receive the scour. Each specific scour valve
location will require the approval of Irish Water and the relevant Local Authority.

The Scour valve should be located off line from the Water Main in a separate valve
Chamber. The scour take-off from the Water Main shall be provided by a flanged tee
piece fitting with a level invert outlet of appropriate size. The connection pipe between

63
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

tee piece at the take-off point on the Water Main and the scour valve, as well as
between the scour valve and the scour Chamber, shall be of ductile iron material. A
scour Chamber shall be provided downstream of the scour valve between the take-off
point and the discharge point to balance the scour discharge and to allow collection and
pumping out of scour debris. The scour Chamber, as described below, is to be provided
with a non-return valve to prevent backflow to the water supply network system. If
required by Irish Water, the scour valves shall be provided to allow adaption of
automatic scouring of the water supply system.

The fittings associated with the scour valve shall be as outlined above in Section 3.16.2
for sluice valves with ductile iron pipe material.

Pipe fittings for the tee piece at the take-off point will be dependent on the pipe material
of the Water Main. In ductile iron Mains, the tee piece shall be fitted with a flange to
plain ended pipe and flexible coupling at both ends. One of the proprietary flexible
couplers may not be required on spigot/socket ductile iron pipes. In polyethylene pipes
the tee piece shall be fitted to a stub flange with backing ring at both ends. The stub
flanges shall be fusion welded to the polyethylene Main at both sides of the tee piece
arrangement. Alternative pipe fitting pieces will be required for other pipe material types.

3.16.5 Hydrants (80mm)

Hydrants shall be double flanged drilled to PN 16. They shall comply with the
requirements of IS EN 14339, IS EN 1074: Part 6 and BS 750. Fire hydrants shall be
Type 2 and shall have an 80mm diameter flange, PN16 rated. The hydrant shall
incorporate a screw-down gate valve, underground, “guide to head” type, with a false
spindle cap. The hydrant shall incorporate an outlet connection (threaded, flanged,
bayonet, etc.). The outlet type shall be confirmed with the Fire Authority prior to
commencement of the works. The outlet shall be provided with a cap and iron chain.

The surface of the hydrant shall be blue and it shall be protected from corrosion by a
coating in accordance with WIS 4-52-01 or IS EN 14901. For coatings in accordance
with WIS 4-52-01, the internal water-wetted surface shall be coated to Class A standard
while all other surfaces shall be coated to Class B standard.

The depth of the hydrant cap shall be located at most 350mm from the finished ground
level. All hydrants shall be ANTI-CLOCKWISE OPENING. Hydrants can be provided
either on line or off line depending on the site requirements. The hydrant shall have a
minimum flow coefficient (Kv) value of 92m3 per hour.

In the case of on line situations, the hydrant shall be located in a Chamber on the Main.
The hydrant shall be fitted to a double flanged, DN80, riser pipe of a length to suit the
site conditions. This riser pipe shall be fitted to the flange of a tee piece on the Water
Main. The type of tee piece will be dependent on the pipe material of the Water Main.
In ductile iron Mains, the tee piece shall be a double socketed tee piece with an 80mm
flanged branch. In polyethylene Mains, the tee piece shall comprise a plain ended tee

64
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

with an 80mm flanged branch. The plain ends of the tee piece shall be fusion welded to
the polyethylene Main at both sides of the tee piece arrangement. Alternative pipe
fitting pieces will be required for other pipe material types.

In the case of off- line situations, the hydrant shall be located in a Chamber remote from
the Water Main. These hydrants shall be legged onto footpaths or grass margins,
subject to the length of the leg shall not exceed 3.0m. The off-line hydrant shall be fitted
to a double flanged, DN80, pipe, of suitable length to extend below the floor slab of the
hydrant Chamber and to suit the site conditions. This pipe shall be fitted to the flange of
a 90 deg. bend below the Chamber. The extension pipe between the hydrant Chamber
and the Water Main shall be 80mm diameter and may be either ductile iron or
polyethylene. Ductile iron extension pipes shall be provided with long body flexible
couplings at appropriate locations along its length and it shall be fitted to a level invert
tee piece on the Water Main. The polyethylene extension pipe shall be fixed to the
ductile iron pipe exiting the hydrant Chamber by a stub flange with backing ring via a
long body flange adaptor. The polyethylene extension pipe shall be fitted to a tee piece
on the Water Main. Joints along the polyethylene extension pipe shall be fusion welded.

The take-off tee piece associated with the off-line hydrant arrangement will also be
dependent on the pipe material of the Water Main. In ductile iron Mains, the tee piece
shall be a double socketed flat invert tee piece with an 80mm flanged branch. In
polyethylene Mains, the tee piece shall comprise a plain ended tee with an 80mm
branch. The plain ends of the tee piece shall be fusion welded to the polyethylene Main
at both sides of the tee piece arrangement and with the 80mm branch piece.

Polyethylene pipe fittings may be used in lieu of the ductile iron fittings outlined above
for the polyethylene pipe option between the off-line hydrant and the polyethylene
pipework fittings from the Main subject to Irish Water approval.

Where off-line hydrants are provided off of Water Mains of 200mm diameter or more,
the branch for the hydrant may be required to include a sluice valve located adjacent to
the take-off tee piece on the Water Main. The provision of such valves shall only be
incorporated subject to the approval and knowledge of the Local Fire Authority.

3.16.6 Air Valves

Air valves shall be of double air valve type with isolating valve in accordance with the
requirements of IS EN 1074: Part 4. Air valves shall be of ductile iron to IS EN 1563,
with a minimum tensile strength 420 N/mm2 and shall have flanged inlets, PN16 rated.
Each valve shall have a large and a small air escape orifice with an isolating valve. The
isolating valve shall be either a resilient seated gate valve to BS 5163 Part 1 Type B
and IS EN 1074, Part 2 and shall be of a boltless bonnet design, or a butterfly valve to
IS EN 1074 Part 2. The air valve shall be capable of automatically releasing
accumulated air/gas from the pipe system while the system is under pressure, release
large quantities of air/gas from the pipe system during filling and prevent negative

65
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

pressure occurring in the pipe system during draining. Air valves can be provided either
on line or off line depending on the site requirements.

The inlet diameter shall be in accordance with the following table:

Diameter of Main Up to 250 mm 250 to 600mm

Diameter of Branch 80 mm 100mm
Bore of Valve Inlet 80 mm 100mm
Min clear opening of surface 600mm x 600mm 600mm x 600mm
box

The location of the air valve shall be the subject of particular agreement with Irish Water
to ensure that the risk of contamination through the valve is eliminated. The valve shall
be generally located at the high points of the water Main comprising pipework of 100mm
diameter or more. Service Connections shall not be provided within 2m of the air valve
location. The air valve shall have a flanged inlet and it shall be fitted on a flanged riser
pipe off the Water Main or on a duck foot bend in the case of off-line situations. The air
valve shall be located to finish at least 250mm from the finished ground surface.

In the case of on line situations, the air valve shall be located in a Chamber on the Main.
The air valve shall be fitted to a double flanged, DN80 or DN100, riser pipe of a length
to suit the site conditions. This riser pipe shall be fitted to the flange of a tee piece on
the Water Main. The type of tee piece will be dependent on the pipe material of the
Water Main. In ductile iron Mains, the tee piece shall be a double socketed tee piece
with an 80mm or 100mm flanged branch. In polyethylene Mains, the tee piece shall
comprise a plain ended tee with an 80mm or 100mm flanged branch. The plain ends of
the tee piece shall be fusion welded to the polyethylene Main at both sides of the tee
piece arrangement. Alternatively, an electro-fusion saddle with an 80mm or 100mm
flanged branch may be provided instead of the plain ended tee piece. Alternative pipe
fitting pieces will be required for other pipe material types.

In the case of off- line situations, the air valve shall be located in a Chamber remote
from the Water Main. These air valves shall be legged onto footpaths or grass margins
subject to the length of the leg shall not exceed 3.0m. The off-line air valve shall be
fitted to a double flanged, DN80 or DN100, duck-foot bend, fitted to a flanged to plain
pipe ductile iron pipe of suitable length to extend outside the wall of the air valve
Chamber and to suit the site conditions. This pipe shall be fitted to the flange of the
duck-foot bend within the Chamber. The extension pipe between the air valve Chamber
and the Water Main shall be 80mm or 100mm diameter and may be either ductile iron
or polyethylene. Ductile iron extension pipes shall be provided with long body flexible
couplings at appropriate locations along its length and it shall be fitted to a 90 degree
flanged bend via a long-body flange adaptor at the connection point to the tee piece on
the Water Main. The polyethylene extension pipe shall be fixed to the ductile iron pipe
exiting the air valve Chamber by a stub flange with backing ring via a long body flange
adaptor. The polyethylene extension pipe shall be fitted to a 90 degree bend at the take-

66
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

off tee piece on the Water Main. Joints along the polyethylene extension pipe shall be
fusion welded.

The take-off tee piece from the Main associated with the off-line air valve arrangement
will also be dependent on the pipe material of the Water Main. In ductile iron Mains, the
tee piece shall be a double socketed tee piece with an 80mm or 100mm flanged branch.
A 90 degree flanged bend shall be fitted to this branch. In polyethylene Mains, the tee
piece shall comprise a plain ended tee with an 80mm or 100mm flanged branch
complete with a 90 degree fusion welded bend. The plain ends of the tee piece shall be
fusion welded to the polyethylene Main at both sides of the tee piece arrangement.
Alternative pipe fitting pieces will be required for other pipe material types subject to the
saddle being installed using a manufacturer’s approved fusion rig.

Polyethylene pipe fittings may be used in lieu of the ductile iron fittings outlined above
for the polyethylene pipe option between the off-line hydrant and the polyethylene
pipework fittings from the Main subject to Irish Water approval.

3.16.7 Other Fitting Materials

Joint gaskets for flexible and flanged joints shall be Ethylene Propylene Diene Monimer
(EPDM). Gasket material shall comply with the requirements of EN 681-1, Type WA
with a hardness range of 76 – 84. Gaskets shall be tested in accordance with BS 7874.
Gaskets for flanged joints shall be full face type. Gaskets shall be designed to meet a
working and test pressure of 16bar and 24 bar respectively, when installed as intended
in flanged and flexible joints.

All lubricants to be used in joints shall be provided by and recommended by the pipe
and fitting manufacturer and shall have no deleterious effects on either the joint rings or
pipes and shall be unaffected by the liquid to be conveyed.

Nuts and bolts used in flanges joints shall be provided by the pipes and fittings
manufacturer and shall be made of steel in accordance with IS EN ISO 898. Metal
washers shall comply with BS 4320. All nuts, bolts and washers shall be protected
against corrosion in accordance with WIS 4-52-03 for a barrier and galvanic coating
system. Flange assemblies, including nuts, bolts, washers and gaskets shall be
designed to a working and test pressure of 16 bar and 24 bar respectively, when
installed.

Manufacturers shall supply tape wrapping to be used for wrapping joints where
required. The wrapping required shall be a high performance polyethylene wrap with a
minimum thickness of 6mm.

Flange adopters shall comply with IS EN 14525 and shall have an allowable operating
pressure of 16 bar. Flanges shall be PN16 rated and shall be drilled in accordance with
IS EN 1092. The body of the end ring shall be ductile iron in accordance with IS EN
1563. Flange adaptors shall be suitable for use with ductile iron, cast iron, steel, PVC,

67
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

asbestos cement and polyethylene. Flange adaptors for polyethylene pipes shall be
designed for Type 1 end restraint to IS EN 12842 and IS EN 14525. The manufacturer
shall supply any liners required to stiffen polyethylene or other pipe type’s in accordance
with his recommendations.

Couplings shall comply with IS EN 14525. Couplings shall have an allowable operating
pressure of 16 Bar. The body and end ring shall be either, stainless steel minimum
Grade 304 or ductile iron in accordance with IS EN 1563. Couplings shall be suitable for
use with ductile iron, cast iron, steel, PVC, asbestos cement and polyethylene. Flange
adaptors for polyethylene pipes shall be designed for Type 1 end restraint to IS EN
12842 and IS EN 14525. The manufacturer shall supply any liners required to stiffen
polyethylene or other type pipes in accordance with his recommendations.

Dismantling joints shall be designed for a working pressure of 16 bar and be tested to
comply with the performance requirements of WIS 4-21-02. The body shall be either,
ductile iron in accordance with IS EN 1563 with a minimum tensile strength of 420
N/mm2 or steel in accordance with BS EN 10025 with minimum grade S275.
Dismantling joint flanges shall be minimum PN16 rated and flanges shall be drilled in
accordance with IS EN 1092. All bolts shall be a minimum, either steel Property Class
4.6 in accordance with BS EN ISO 898-1 or stainless steel, with a minimum chromium
content of 13%, in accordance with BS EN ISO 3506-1. All nuts shall be minimum,
either steel Property Class 4 in accordance with BS EN ISO 898-2 or stainless steel,
with a minimum chromium content of 13%, in accordance with BS EN ISO 3506-2.
Couplings shall be suitable for use with the following groups of pipe material: Ductile
iron, cast iron, steel, PVC.

3.17 Pressure Reducing/Sustaining Valves

Pressure reducing valves (PRV), where required, will be selected, supplied and fitted by
Irish Water in Chambers constructed by the Developer. The PRV will incorporate
appropriate strainers, valve gauges, pilot displays and damper. They shall be capable of
variable “day” and “night” pressure adjustment and shall incorporate upstream and
downstream pressure assessment capability. PRV control systems shall also be
provided by Irish Water.

The valve will be capable of being adjusted locally or remotely and will be supplied with
a digital valve controller which can be integrated into an automatic control system. The
control of the valve shall be governed by pre-determined set points. The PRV and its
control system will be provided and fitted at the expense of the Developer.

The body of the valve shall be ductile iron, 16 bar rated, flanged and drilled to BS EN
1092, PN 16. All external tubing shall be in copper and all external fittings shall be
brass. The valve shall be supplied with all necessary solenoid valves to enable
automatic operation.

68
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The valve design shall be such that all necessary repairs and maintenance shall be
possible without removing the valve body from the line. The valve shall have no external
packaging glands or stuffing boxes. The valve will be of a type that can be lifted out
vertically, if necessary for maintenance purposes.

Pressure reducing valves will ideally be located on a bypass pipe to achieve its location
off road for ease of access and maintenance. Pressure tapping points shall be provided
upstream and downstream of the valve with connections to a nearby kiosk. Hydrants
should be located upstream and downstream of the pressure reducing valve (normal
development hydrant spacing should suffice in most instances) for commissioning of the
valve and for monitoring pressure during valve maintenance.

Pressure sustaining valves (PSV) will be selected, provided and fitted to a standard
approved by Irish Water in Chambers constructed by the Developer. The PSV and its
control system will be provided and fitted at the expense of the Developer.

Control equipment, pressure gauges, etc. associated with pressure reducing and
pressure sustaining valves shall be located in a kiosk adjacent to the valve location.
Appropriate ducting shall be provided between the valve Chamber and the kiosk.

Appropriate by-pass pipe arrangements shall be provided in either ductile iron or

polyethylene. This pipework shall be complete with take-off all flanged tees, all flanged
taper pieces, flanged valves and hydrants. Ductile iron bypass pipework shall be
complete with flanged/plain ended pipes, long bodied flexible couplings, flanged bends,
plain ended pipes, etc. Polyethylene pipework shall be provided with appropriate stub
flanges with backing rings, bends, and plain ended pipes and the joints shall be fusion
welded.

3.18 Hydrant, Air Valve, Sluice Valve and Scour Valve Chambers

Hydrants, air valves, sluice valves, scour valves and washout hydrants shall be installed
in Chambers suitably sized to accommodate the fitting and allow access for inspection
and normal maintenance. Chambers for sluice valves, hydrants and air valves shall
have a minimum internal plan area of 600mm by 600mm complete with a 900mm by
900mm base slab or 1,200mm by 1,200mm base slab depending on the method of
construction of the chamber.

Alternative dimensions for sluice valve Chambers of internal plan area of 450mm by
450mm may be allowed, subject to the approval of Irish Water, where the sluice valve
Chamber is located on non-trafficked areas, such as footpaths, grass margins, or
where, due to utility congestion, it is not possible to provide the larger chamber
dimension. In trafficked situations, the base of the chamber shall always be 900mm x
900mm or 1,200mm by 1,200mm, as outlined above depending on the method of
construction of the chamber. Otherwise the base may be reduced to 750mm by 750mm
or 900mm by 900mm, depending on the method of construction of the chamber, to suite
the reduced Chamber unit size in non-trafficked areas.

69
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Alternative hydrant Chamber sizes of internal plan area of 450mm by 600mm may be
allowed, subject to the approval of Irish Water, where these relate to off-line hydrants
and where they are located in non-trafficked areas, such as footpaths, grass margins, or
where, due to utility congestion, it is not possible to provide the larger chamber
dimension. In trafficked situations, the base of the chamber shall always be 900mm x
900mm (1,200mm by 1,200mm for blockwork construction) as outlined below, otherwise
the base may be reduced to 750mm by 900mm (900mm by 1,200mm for blockwork
construction) to suite the reduced Chamber unit size in non-trafficked areas (.

All air-valve Chambers shall be provided with an internal plan area of 600mm by
600mm in all cases and no reduction of the Chamber size for air valves is to be applied.
.
Chambers can be constructed of pre-cast concrete or of high density blockwork,
complete with a base slab of dimensions outlined above for the various chamber sizes
and methods of construction. Alternatively, proprietary prefabricated Chamber units may
also be used, but only subject to the approval of Irish Water.

The walls of blockwork Chambers shall be constructed with 215mm, high strength
(20N/mm²), solid concrete block, laid on flat, bedded in mortar, of minimum M20
strength to IS EN 998-Part 2, and flush pointed. The block units shall comply with the
requirements of IS EN 771 - Part 3. The walls of Chambers can alternatively be formed
with reinforced pre-cast concrete units formed with C28/35 concrete, 20mm aggregate
size, with steel reinforcement. The units shall be square, composite units, with a
minimum wall thickness of 100mm, thickened at each corner. Single height precast
units will be acceptable. If modular units are proposed, the pre-cast concrete units shall
be bedded in mortar, minimum M30 strength to IS EN 998-Part 2, and flush pointed.

The Chamber floors shall be formed with C25/30 concrete, in accordance with IS EN
206, 20mm aggregate size, in accordance with IS EN 12620, with a minimum thickness
of 100mm, complete with mild steel reinforcement, with a minimum 40mm concrete
cover. Alternatively, pre-cast concrete bearing slabs of similar depth may be allowed,
subject to Irish Water approval. The floor slab plan area shall not be less than 900mm
by 900mm for pre-cast units and 1,200mm by 1,200mmin for blockwork chambers in all
cases where the Chamber is located on trafficked areas, even where the smaller
chamber sized outlined above are used. Smaller floor slab dimensions will be allowed
where the chamber is located on footpaths and on non-trafficked areas. The floor slab
shall be founded on the granular pipe surround material or on trench granular backfill
material. Off-line hydrant and air valve Chambers floor slabs shall be founded on natural
material. The floor slab of on-line Chambers shall not be cast against the sluice valve
body or the riser pipe to the hydrant and air valves. A drain hole shall be allowed in the
base slab to allow free drainage of liquid from the Chamber to free draining granular
material below. In the case of off-line hydrants and air valves, the duck-foot bend
supporting the hydrant or air valve shall be seated on the floor slab of the off-line
Chambers.

70
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Chambers shall be surrounded in Clause 808 material in accordance with the Transport
Infrastructure Ireland (formerly National Roads Authority) Specification for Road Works,
compacted in 150mm layers, to the underside of the road/footpath structure.

The Chamber of sluice valves, scour valves and hydrants shall be complete with a
reinforced concrete roof formed with C30/37 concrete, in accordance with IS EN 206,
20mm aggregate size, in accordance with IS EN 12620, of minimum thickness of
150mm, reinforced with high tensile reinforcement to BS 4449, with a minimum 40mm
concrete cover. The roof slab shall be designed to carry road traffic. Air valve Chambers
will not require a roof slab due to the size of the air valve Chamber cover and frame.

Sluice valve and hydrant Chambers shall be covered with approved heavy duty cast
iron surface box covers and frames, 445mm by 280mm plan area, to IS 261 or BS
5834, subject to the minimum mass of the cover per m2 for Grade A being 250kg/m2
and Grade B being 200kg/m2. The covers and frames shall be suitable for road and
traffic conditions. Third Party Certification shall be provided for all cast iron surface box
covers and frames. Air valve Chambers shall be covered with approved heavy duty iron
covers and frames, 600mm by 600mm, to IS EN 124, rating D400, with a minimum frame depth
of either 100mm or 150mm. The covers shall be set in position flush with the finished
ground surface, whether road, pavement or open ground.

The sluice valve, hydrant and air valve cover frames shall be supported on Class B
engineering brick to IS EN 771 - Part 2, one course minimum and no more than a
maximum of two courses in height, set in mortar, minimum M30 strength to IS EN 998-
Part 2:2010. The Chamber cover frame shall be set in rapid hardening cementitious,
epoxy resin or polyester resin mortar. The mortar shall have a minimum working time of
15 minutes and shall reach a minimum compressive strength of 30 N/mm2 and
minimum tensile strength of 5 N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing. Concrete blocks of or
bricks of lesser strength shall not be permitted. The covers shall be set on the brick in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to finish in alignment with the road or
footway surface. The finish of the road surface around the Chamber cover and frame
shall be to the requirements of the relevant Roads Authority for the area. Air valve and
hydrants covers, where located in grass areas, shall be surrounded by a concrete plinth,
200mm all round and 100mm deep formed with C20/25 concrete, 20mm aggregate
size, bedded in Clause 804 material. The plinth shall incorporate mild steel
reinforcement links and shall have a bull-nose finish around its external perimeter.

The metal covers shall have appropriate identification marks on the cover. Covers for
surface boxes on Water Mains shall have either the word “WATER” or the letters “WM”
cast on the top surface in 75mm letters. Covers for other applications shall have “FH”
(fire hydrant), “ScV” (scour valve), “SV” (sluice valve), “AV” (air valve) and PRV/PSV
(pressure reducing or pressure sustaining valve) as appropriate. The colour of the
covers and the lettering shall be as outlined in Section 3.23 below. Covers shall be
level with the finished ground level after permanent restoration.

Proprietary prefabricated spindle tube units may be used only in special situations. Their
use shall be subject to specific Irish Water requirements and written approval.
71
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Concrete in all Chambers, etc., shall comply with the requirements of IS EN 206, and
granular material in the concrete shall comply with the requirements of IS EN 12620
(See also SR 16). (This provision shall apply to all situations within this Code of Practice
where in-situ and structural concrete is required.)

3.19 Water Meter Chambers

Bulk flow meters shall be installed in Chambers and these shall be suitably sized to
accommodate the meter and allow access for maintenance. The Chamber internal
dimensions will vary depending on the size of the meter to be accommodated. For
meters between 35mm and 65mm, the internal Chamber dimensions shall be 450mm
by 600mm. For meter sizes greater than 65mm and up to 100mm, the internal
dimensions shall be 1,200mm by 1,200mm. For meter sizes greater than 100mm and
up to 250mm, the internal dimensions shall be 1,500mm by 1,500mm. The Chambers
shall be provided with ductile iron pipework and fittings. The inlet and outlet pipework
shall be built into the walls of the Chamber and fully sealed, complete with puddle
flanges. The Chamber should be located off road, if possible, to allow ease of access
and maintenance of the meter. The base and walls of the Chamber shall be constructed
in C30/37 concrete, complying with the requirements of IS EN 206, 20mm aggregate
size, with a minimum thickness of 250mm. The Chamber shall be complete with a
reinforced concrete roof formed with C30/37 concrete, 20mm aggregate size concrete
of minimum thickness of 225mm, reinforced with high tensile reinforcement to BS 4449.

Separate Chambers for strainers associated with mechanical meters may be required
where there is local evidence of an elevated risk of damage to the meter from
particulate matter in the water supply. The Developer shall install an appropriately sized
spool piece within the chamber in lieu of the strainer. The requirement for the provision
of strainers, and associated Chambers, will be advised by Irish Water. The strainer
Chamber construction shall be similar to that outlined below for the meter Chamber.

The roof slab shall incorporate an opening, 750mm by 750mm for the smaller Chamber
and 900mm by 900mm for the larger Chamber, to allow the visual inspection of the
meter. Cast-in recessed lifting lugs shall be provided in each corner of the concrete roof
slab to allow it positioning in place. In addition, these lifting lugs shall be used to remove
the roof slab for access to the Chamber to allow maintenance of the meter and its
removal and/or replacement if necessary.

The Chamber shall be fitted with manhole steps to comply with IS EN 13101, Type D,
Class 1, galvanised mild steel and plastic encapsulated. Access to the confined space
within the Chamber shall not generally be required but when needed this access shall
be by way of a safe access plan.

The internal dimensions of the Chamber shall be sufficient to contain the meter,
telemetry data-logger (if not provided in a kiosk) and any associated pipework. The bolts
and joints shall be visible and accessible in order to allow for maintenance and for the

72
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

possible future replacement of the meter without the need for excavation. The depth of
the meter Chamber shall provide a minimum of 300mm clearance beneath the meter
fitting. Sufficient clearance shall be provided between the walls and the meter
equipment to allow maintenance activities to be carried out.

The cover shall be sufficient size for a 900mm by 900mm opening. It shall be capable of
withstanding imposed loads and shall comply with IS EN 124, D400 if located on
roadways or footways. The cover shall be double hinged units. Lower load capacity
rated covers may be used if the Chamber is located off road in green areas, subject to
Irish Water approval.

The cover frames shall be supported on Class B engineering brick to IS EN 771- Part 2,
one course minimum and no more than a maximum of three courses in height, set in
mortar, minimum M30 strength to IS EN 998-Part 2:2010. The Chamber cover frame
shall be set in rapid hardening cementitious, epoxy resin or polyester resin mortar. The
mortar shall have a minimum working time of 15 minutes and shall reach a minimum
compressive strength of 30 N/mm2 and minimum tensile strength of 5 N/mm2 within 3
hours of mixing. Concrete blocks of or bricks of lesser strength shall not be permitted.
The covers shall be set on the brick in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
to finish in alignment with the road or footway surface. The finish of the road surface
around the Chamber cover and frame shall be to the requirements of the relevant
Roads Authority for the area. Meter Chamber covers, where located in grass areas,
shall be surrounded by a concrete plinth, 200mm all round and 100mm deep formed
with C20/25 concrete, 20mm aggregate size, bedded in Clause 804 material. The plinth
shall be complete with bull-nose finish to its perimeter and shall be provided with a mild
steel reinforcement link.

The Developer shall provide a spool piece in lieu of a meter in the pipe assembly within
the meter Chamber. The dimension of the spool piece shall be appropriate for the meter
type and size and will be notified by Irish Water. On the fitting of the meter within the
meter Chamber, Irish Water will remove the spool piece and fit the meter in its position.
Similarly, is strainers are deemed necessary, the Developer shall provide a spool piece
in lieu of a strainer in the pipe assembly within the strainer Chamber. On the fitting of
the strainer within the meter Chamber, Irish Water will remove the spool piece and fit
the strainer in its position.

Valves associated with the meter may be located in separate valve Chambers adjacent
to the meter Chamber. The valve Chambers shall be similar in size and construction to
those described above for hydrants, air valves, sluice valves, scour valves and washout
hydrants (Section 3.18).

Irish Water, in specific situations, may allow buried meters. This will be at the sole
discretion of Irish Water and will not be the norm.

73
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.20 Pressure Reducing/Sustaining Valve Chambers

Pressure reducing valve and pressure sustaining valve Chambers shall be suitably
sized to accommodate the valve and allow access for maintenance. The Chamber
internal dimensions will vary depending on the size of the valve to be accommodated.
For valves between 50mm and 100mm, the internal dimensions shall be 1,500mm by
1,200mm. For valve sizes greater than 100mm and up to 250mm, the internal
dimensions shall be 2,200mm by 1,500mm. The Chambers shall be provided with
ductile iron pipework and fittings. The inlet and outlet pipework shall be built into the
walls of the Chamber and fully sealed, complete with puddle flanges. The Chamber
should be located off road, if possible, to allow ease of access and maintenance of the
valve. The base and walls of the Chamber shall be constructed in C30/37 concrete,
complying with the requirements of IS EN 206, 20mm aggregate size, with a minimum
thickness of 250mm. The Chamber shall be complete with a reinforced concrete roof
formed with C30/37 concrete, complying with the requirements of IS EN 206, 20mm
aggregate size concrete of minimum thickness of 225mm, reinforced with high tensile
reinforcement to BS 4449.

The roof slab shall incorporate an opening, 1,200mm by 600mm for the smaller
Chamber and 1,800mm by 900mm for the larger Chamber, to allow visual inspection of
the valve and fittings. The valve Chamber shall be sufficiently sized to allow the removal
of strainers, etc., during maintenance. Valves associated with the pressure reducing or
pressure sustaining valve may be located in separate valve Chambers adjacent to the
Chamber. Cast-in recessed lifting lugs shall be provided in each corner of the concrete
roof slab to allow positioning of it in place. In addition, these lifting lugs shall be used to
remove the roof slab for access to the Chamber to allow maintenance of the pressure
reducing/sustaining valve and its removal and/or replacement if necessary.

The Chamber shall be fitted with manhole steps to comply with IS EN 13101, Type D,
Class 1, galvanised mild steel and plastic encapsulated. Access to the confined space
within the Chamber shall not generally be required but when needed this access shall
be by way of a safe access plan during the operational life of the unit.

The cover shall be capable of withstanding imposed loads and shall comply with IS EN
124, D400 if located on roadways or footways. The cover shall be double hinged units.
Lower load capacity rated covers may be used if the Chamber is located off road,
subject to Irish Water approval.

The internal dimensions of the Chamber shall be sufficient to contain the valve, the
strainer and any associated pipework. The bolts and joints shall be visible and
accessible in order to allow for maintenance and for the possible future replacement of
the valve without the need for excavation. The depth of the Chamber shall provide a
minimum of 300mm clearance beneath the pipework fittings. Sufficient clearance shall
be provided between the walls and the valve and associated equipment to allow
maintenance activities to be carried out.

74
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The cover frames shall be supported on Class B engineering brick to IS EN 771- Part 2,
one course minimum and no more than a maximum of three courses in height, set in
mortar, minimum M30 strength to IS EN 998-Part 2:2010. The Chamber cover frame
shall be set in rapid hardening cementitious, epoxy resin or polyester resin mortar. The
mortar shall have a minimum working time of 15 minutes and shall reach a minimum
compressive strength of 30 N/mm2 and minimum tensile strength of 5 N/mm2 within 3
hours of mixing. Concrete blocks of or bricks of lesser strength shall not be permitted.
The covers shall be set on the brick in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
to finish in alignment with the finished road or footway surface. The finish of the road
surface around the Chamber cover and frame shall be to the requirements of the
relevant Roads Authority for the area. Valve Chamber covers, where located in grass
areas, shall be surrounded by a concrete plinth, 200mm all round and 100mm deep
formed with C20/25 concrete, 20mm aggregate size, bedded in Clause 804 material.
The plinth shall be complete with bull-nose finish to its perimeter and shall be provided
with a mild steel reinforcement link.

In the case of small sized pressure reducing valve and pressure sustaining valves, the
Chambers may be similar in construction to those described above for small sized
meter Chambers (Section 3.19).

3.21 Scour Chambers

Scour Chambers shall be provided to balance the scour discharge and to collect debris
from the scouring operation for separate disposal. Where possible, scour Chambers
should be located off carriageways and generally in areas only subject to foot traffic.

The scour Chamber shall be constructed with precast concrete manhole wall units
completed with rubber sealing ring gasket between units, complying with the
requirements of IS EN 1917 and IS 420, complete with a 150mm minimum thickness
cast in situ concrete surround, C20/25, 20mm aggregate size, with either pre-cast or
cast in-situ concrete base (300mm minimum thick) with a 400mm x 400mm x 200mm
deep floor sump located beneath the roof opening.

The scour Chamber shall have pre-cast or cast in-situ concrete roof slab (200mm
minimum thickness), constructed of C30/37, complying with the requirements of IS EN
206, 20mm aggregate size, reinforced with high tensile steel bar reinforcement, with a
minimum 40mm concrete cover. Alternatively, approved precast concrete roof slabs
may be used subject to Irish Water approval and compliance with IS EN 1917 and IS
420. This approach would be the preferable option where pre-cast concrete ring units
are used as scour Chamber walls. An access opening shall be formed in the manhole
roof slabs. The minimum dimensions of the roof opening shall be 600mm by 600mm.
Circular manhole openings of 600mm diameter may be used if the scour Chamber
cover is circular.

The scour Chamber shall have a minimum internal clear dimension of 1,200mm.
Confined space access requirements will apply with planned safe access procedures.

75
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The roof slab opening shall be provided with a cover and frame to comply with IS EN
124, Class D400. Frames should be square or circular with a square or circular insert
with a minimum clear diameter/dimension of 600mm and a minimum depth of 100mm, if
located in light traffic roads. Heavily trafficked roads will require a 150mm deep frame.
All covers shall be of non-rock design and hinged. Two closed keyways shall be
provided in each cover. Where square covers are provided, they shall be hinged double
leafed covers. Circular covers shall be hinged and single leafed. The covers shall be set
in position flush with the finished ground surface, whether, road, pavement or open
ground. The frame cover should be supported on Class B engineering brick to IS EN
771 - Part 2, one course minimum and no more than a maximum of three courses in
height, set in mortar, minimum M30 strength to IS EN 998-Part 2:2010. The Chamber
cover frame shall be set in rapid hardening cementitious, epoxy resin or polyester resin
mortar. The mortar shall have a minimum working time of 15 minutes and shall reach a
minimum compressive strength of 30 N/mm2 and minimum tensile strength of 5 N/mm2
within 3 hours of mixing. Concrete blocks of or bricks of lesser strength shall not be
permitted. The cover frame should be installed and bedded to the manufacturer’s
instructions. The finish of the road surface around the Chamber cover and frame shall
be to the requirements of the relevant Roads Authority for the area.

The scour Chamber shall be provided with ductile iron inlet and outlet pipework, built
into the walls of the Chamber and fully sealed, complete with puddle flanges. The inlet
pipe shall be fitted with a cast iron non-return flap valve. The outlet pipe shall be located
at a lower level than the inlet pipe. The outlet pipe shall also be fitted with a cast iron
non-return flap valve at the outlet headwall location discharge point.

Scour valves, scour Chambers and outlet pipes for large diameter Mains shall be sized
for both rapid emptying time and on the assimilative capacity of the downstream
receiving waterway. Where scour pipes discharge to a surface water system, it is
essential that the surface water pipe has adequate capacity to receive the scour flow.
The discharge point from a scour Chamber to a water course shall be provided and
located with the approval of the relevant Statutory Authorities. The discharge point shall
be provided with a concrete headwall structure, completed with a back wall, side walls
and base, constructed in C30/37 concrete. Handrails shall be provided in accordance
with a design risk assessment. Each specific location will require the approval of Irish
Water and the relevant Local Authority.

The Chamber shall be fitted with manhole steps to comply with IS EN 13101, Type D,
Class 1, galvanised mild steel and plastic encapsulated. Access to the confined space
within the Chamber shall not generally be required but when needed this access shall
be by way of a safe access plan during the operational life of the unit.

3.22 Washout Hydrants

A washout hydrant may be provided where it is not possible to provide scouring

arrangements for a Water Main by incorporating a scour valve and a scour Chamber.

76
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Washout hydrants are normally used in smaller diameter Water Mains. A washout
hydrant arrangement shall comprise a scour valve arrangement, if deemed necessary
due to the pressure rating of the take-off Main, as described in Section 3.16.4 above,
complete with a level invert tee off of the Water Main to be scoured. The take-off pipe
and scour valve, if provided, shall be linked to an off-line hydrant as detailed in Section
3.16.5 above. The Chambers associated with the scour valve and the hydrant shall be
as described in Section 3.18 above.

3.23 Indicator Marker Plates and Posts

Indicator plates shall clearly identify hydrant, air valve, scour valve, washout hydrant,
meter, pressure reducing/sustaining valve and sluice valve locations. They shall be
located to the approval of both Irish Water and the Roads Authority for the area. The
plates shall be mounted on marker posts at the back of footpaths or on the boundary
wall of the public thoroughfare nearest to the hydrant or valve.

Hydrant indicator plates and baseboard plates shall comply with BS 3251, with hydrant
plates of fixed black letter H on a canary yellow background (colour reference 309 to BS
381C). The plate shall show the diameter of the trunk Main in “mm” and the distance
from the marker to the hydrant in “m”. Indicator plates for air valves, sluice valves, scour
valves, washout hydrant, pressure reducing/sustaining valves, meters and bulk meters
shall also comply with BS 3251 with fixed black letters (AV, SV, ScV, WO, PRV/PSV,
Me and BM respectively) on a white background. The plate shall show the diameter of
the Main in “mm” and the distance from the marker to the fitting shall be indicated in
“m”. Marker plates shall be metal and shall be fixed with stainless steel non-retractable
screws.

Marker posts shall be of concrete construction, complying with IS EN 206, to conform to

IS 162. They shall be set 450mm deep in a 0.06 m3 support base of C25/30 concrete,
20 mm aggregate size.

Plastic marker posts and plastic indicator plates shall not be provided under any
circumstance.

3.24 Warning Tape

All pipework shall have a marker tape installed 300mm above the crown of the pipework
or above the granular surround material and directly above the centreline of the Main.
The marker tape shall be tied to valves at a depth of 350mm. The tape shall be 400mm
wide blue polyethylene material, in accordance with IS EN 12613 – Plastic Warning
Devices for Underground Cables and Pipelines with Visual Characteristics. Plastic pipes
shall have a warning mesh incorporating a polypropylene reinforced band of stainless
steel tracer wire.

Distribution System and Service Connections shall have a 200mm wide tape laid at the
same depths as outlined above (300mm).

77
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.25 Existing Utilities

It is the responsibility of the Developer and/or designer to obtain all current information
on the location of other existing utility or service providers’ apparatus prior to the design
being carried out. During installation, due diligence should be used when making
excavations for Water Mains and service connection and care shall be taken to protect
and support all existing services (water, gas, telecommunications, drainage, electricity,
etc.) and other works so as not to interfere with the working arrangements and integrity
of such utilities.

3.26 Environmental Considerations

The design should take into account the impact of the Works on the environment and
the impact of the environment on the Works. Cognisance should be taken of amenity
conservation, preservation of access to the public and facilitation of recreation when
designing infrastructure. Consideration should also be taken of areas of specific
ecological interest such as Special Area of Conservation (SACs), National Heritage
Area (NHAs), etc.

The design of landscaping works shall be undertaken concurrently and in conjunction

with the design of the Works. The collaborative design process shall incorporate and
take account of any likely assessed negative impact(s) on the root zones and root
protection areas of trees and/or large shrubs on the Works. The design process shall
seek to minimise risk to roots and the risk of root ingress to the Works by appropriate
separation distances or by the provision of root protection barriers.

The design, procurement and supervision of the landscaping works next to and over the
Works shall be undertaken by the Developer using a fully qualified and competent
landscape architect, working in collaboration with a fully qualified and competent
arboriculturist, both in consultation with Irish Water. Any part of Works which does not
have special tree root protection measures shall be positioned with adequate separation
from new trees/shrubs to ensure that their root systems will not cause damage to the
infrastructure. These separation distances will vary from (tree and shrub) species to
species and specialist advice shall be obtained by the Developer from his/her landscape
architect and arboriculture advisers in this regard, as outlined above, and provided in
the Design Submission.

Special tree root protection measures may be provided to reduce the separation
distances between the Works and the new planting. The design of the tree planting and
species selection will need to be decided in relation to the depth of the pipe and the
distance from the Works. Where tree planting is proposed within the distances where
tree roots could directly damage the Works, as referenced in Table A1 of BS 5837,
special protection measures shall be provided. These measures might be achieved in
the pipe system by the provision of high performance joints or the use of polyethylene
pipes with welded joints. Alternatively, proprietary protection systems, such as vertical

78
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

barriers, geotextile pipe wrap, tree planting pits, etc. may be used to prevent the tree
roots systems from reaching the Works.

Tree planting will not normally be allowed directly over the Works or within the distances
referred to in Table A1 of BS 5837, but this may be increased depending on the species
type or relaxed where it can be shown that appropriate species selection and protection
measures can be provided to prevent root ingress damage to the satisfaction of Irish
Water. Such protection measures may include root barriers, root directors and by
avoiding planting next to joints, valves or other sensitive parts of the pipe system.

Where such planting is carried out directly over the Works and where excavation is
required to subsequently access the infrastructure, there may be a requirement to
remove the trees/shrubs, but this will be assessed on a case by case basis and any
possible mitigation measures to reduce impact on tree vegetation should be
investigated before a final decision to remove the tree vegetation is taken. Only shallow
rooting shrubs shall be planted close to or over the Works.

Where new pipe installation works are to be carried out near existing tree vegetation,
these shall be in accordance with the provisions of BS 5837 (Trees in Relation to
Design, Demolition and Construction – Recommendations) and the National Joint
Utilities Group (NJUG), Guidelines for Planting, Installation and Maintenance of Utility
Apparatus in Proximity to Trees, Volume 4, which outline the following zones:

Prohibited Zone (1m from tree trunk): Excavation of any kind shall not be
undertaken within this zone unless, after full consultation with an arboriculturist or
landscape consultant, it is deemed acceptable. No material, plant and spoil shall be
stored within this area.

Precaution Zone (defined as a radius of four times the circumference of the tree at
1.5m above ground level): Where excavation is carried out within this zone, the use
of mechanical excavation plant shall be prohibited. All such excavation works shall
be carried out manually or with the aid of an air-spade or vacuum and precautions
shall be undertaken to protect any exposed roots from damage. All such excavation
works shall be supervised by a qualified arborist. No material, plant and spoil shall
be stored within this area.

Permitted Zone (outside the Precaution Zone): Excavation works may be

undertaken within this zone, but caution must be applied and the use of mechanical
plant limited. Any exposed roots should be protected.
:
The installation of any new pipework or the planting of new tree vegetation within the
vicinity of existing pipe systems will need to take account of the provisions of BS 5837
and BS 8545. Irish Water does not favour planting over its Networks.

79
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.27 Working Near Existing Pipes (Notifications and Separation Distances)

Detailed proposals, including work method statements, insurance confirmation and

details of work completed of a similar nature must be submitted to Irish Water for its
consideration before approval will be issued prior to undertaking work in close proximity
to Irish Water assets. All such works in the vicinity of Water Mains or sewers of 400mm
diameter and greater shall be subject to written agreement with Irish Water before
construction commences on site. This agreement shall also include any necessary
protection for Water Mains and sewers. The placing of concrete over or around Water
Mains is expressly forbidden.

In the case of installations in close proximity to existing Water Mains and Sewers, the
following minimum horizontal distances shall be maintained between pipes/ducts,
cabinets, poles, manholes, junction boxes, Chambers, etc. where the depth of the
existing infrastructure does not exceed 1.5m:

3.27.1 600mm at either side of Mains up to and including 150mm diameter;

3.27.2 1m at either side of Mains of 200mm to 250mm diameter;
3.27.3 2m at either side of Mains of 300mm and 375mm diameter;
3.27.4 5m at either side of Mains of 400mm and 450mm diameter;
3.27.5 Specific Irish Water advised distances for Mains in excess of 450mm;
3.27.6 600mm at either side of gravity sewer up to and including 225mm diameter;
3.27.7 1m at either side of gravity sewer of 300mm and up to 450 mm diameter;
3.27.8 1.5m at either side of gravity sewers of 600mm diameter and greater;

Specific written permission shall be required from Irish Water for installing infrastructure
closer to the Irish Water existing asset than the limits outlined above or where the depth
of the existing asset exceeds 1.5m. For strategic fibre optic or oil filled cables the
separation distance requirements of the service provider shall apply. Irish Water may
require increased clearance separation distances in excess of the specific utility
provider’s requirements.

The separation distances between new pipework associated with the Works and
between pipework associated with the Works and other utility pipework shall be as set
out in Section 3.6 above.

Where pipes or ducts are to be laid close to an existing Water Main or sewer in the sole
control of Irish Water, notification in writing shall be provided a minimum of 10 working
days ahead of the advancement of the work. This requirement shall also apply to the
carrying out of trial holes or slit trenches to locate the Main or to gather ground
investigation data. In the case of large diameter (350mm or greater) distribution and
trunk Water Mains and Sewers, Irish Water must be notified at least one month before
the work is advanced. This notification is in addition to any formal procedures detailed
elsewhere in this document. The notifications shall apply where work is proposed within
the following proximities of Irish Water infrastructure:

80
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

3.27.9 1m at either side of existing pipes less than 200mm diameter;

3.27.10 2m at either side of existing pipes of 200mm to 350mm diameter;
3.27.11 5m at either side of existing pipes of 350mm or greater;

Developer s shall also comply with any notification requirements associated with other
utility providers’ infrastructure (ESB Networks, Gas Networks Ireland,
telecommunications providers, etc.) that these Utility Companies might have.

Any costs arising from the Developer work associated with locating pipework or any
costs due to work undertaken by Irish Water or its agents to assist the Developer in
identifying and locating the infrastructure shall be fully covered by the Developer. The
Developer will be notified of these costs in advance.

Irish Water reserves the right to revert to the Developer with specific requirements in
relation to protection of its assets. Care shall be taken while laying pipes/ducts so as not
to damage any Water Main or fitting. Any damage shall be notified immediately to Irish
Water on the Irish Water website, at www.water.ie. The person who causes the damage
to a Water Main or fitting will be deemed to have committed an offence under Section
45 of the Water Services Act 2007.

3.28 Water Storage

Only indirect plumbing systems should be provided in internal water distributions

systems i.e. all appliances shall be plumbed from a cold-water storage tank and
supplied by gravity. The benefits of such indirect systems relate to ensuring that
adequate storage capacity is available to serve all appliances within the Premises.

The plumbing and water storage requirements for premises should be in accordance
with the current version of the Building Regulations and/or with the requirements of the
relevant Local Authority’s Plumbing Regulations and Bye-Laws, if such exist. In many
instances, the Local Authority will require arrangements to be made to have internal
plumbing inspected and approved by a Local Authority representative. All
Developments over two storeys in height or requiring a supply pressure greater than
15m head at the Curtilage of the property must comply with the requirements of Section
3.13 above. Specific agreement will be required from Irish Water and the relevant Local
Authority as necessary. As a general rule, storage of 24-hour maximum daily
consumption should be provided. The minimum water storage requirement for
commercial, industrial or manufacturing purposes shall be calculated on a 24-hour or
maximum daily consumption basis. General guidelines for domestic premises are
shown below in the following Table.

81
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Building Minimum Cold Water Storage

for new Developments using
low flush and dual flush WCs

Dwelling house or Apt. (up to 3 Bed without power shower) 227 litres
Dwelling house or Apt. (4 Bedrooms or single power shower) 340 litres
Dwelling house or Apt. (having 2 full bathrooms) 682 litres
Additional water storage per shower en-suite in the above 90 litres

General guidelines for commercial premises are shown in the Table below. Hotels with
swimming pools, etc. will require more storage.

Building or Use Minimum Cold Water Storage

for new Developments using
low flush and dual flush WCs

Hostel’s (with communal bathrooms) 90 litres per head

Factory 45 litres / head of staff
Hospitals, maternity 455 litres per bed
Hospitals, general 227 litres per bed
Hospital laundry 136 litres / bed and staff
Hospital staff 45 litres per head
Hospital, nurses home & medical quarters 136 litres per head
Offices 45 litres per head
School, day, boys/girls 36 litres per head
School, boarding 113 litres per head
Small commercial 45 litres / head of staff
Guest Houses without private bathroom 227 litres per head

Restaurants and canteens (from one of the following)

Full meal 30 litres per meal
Pre-prepared meal 25 litres per meal
Snack bar and bar meal 15 litres per meal
Function room including buffet 15 litres per meal
Fast food (roadside restaurant) 12 litres per meal
Fast food meal (burger chain and similar) 12 litres per meal

Hotels (made up of the following or a combination of the following)

Hotel Guest 250 litres per bed space
Residential Training/Conference Guest (incl. Meal) 350 litres per guest
Non residential conference guest 60 litres per guest
Public house patrons 12 litres per patron
Resident staff 180 litres per person
Restaurants (as above for restaurants and canteens)

82
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

In Developments where swimming pools are located, separate independent water

storage cistern(s) must be provided for the swimming pool and their rate of draw-off
shall be limited. All arrangements associated with Distribution System to fill the pool
following its construction and during maintenance shall be agreed and approved with
Irish Water. Details of the Distribution System to the pool (including recycling
arrangements) shall be agreed (in writing) with Irish Water and the Local Authority in
which the development is being undertaken. This requirement will also apply to any
other significant water using facilities located within or forming part of Development s.

3.29 Water Management and Conservation

Developer s, in the interests of water conservation, are encouraged to adopt water

conservation management, including the use of dual flush water cisterns, low flow taps,
etc. Rainwater harvesting systems, where proposed in their Developments, shall be
installed with specific focus on preventing water quality cross contamination. The
Developer shall provide full details of the water management proposals to Irish Water
and the Local Authority in which the Development is being undertaken along with the
design proposals for the infrastructure. This may be in the form of a Water Management
and Conservation Plan (WMCP). The WMCP will include details of the Developer’s
proposals in relation to Water Mains and all internal plumbing, fittings and Distribution
Systems as well as proposals for the limitation of use of water. Such water management
proposals may include rainwater harvesting systems..

Rainwater harvesting systems usually require the option of top up with water from the
water supply network during periods of dry weather when rainfall is not sufficient to
meet the demands of the system. Any connection to a rainwater harvesting system
must be provided via a secure connection where it is not possible for cross
contamination and/or backflow to the public or private drinking water supply. An
acceptable back up supply to the rainwater harvesting system can be provided using a
connection to the high level rainwater storage tank via an unrestricted air-gap device
(Type AA device, IS EN 1717).

All pipework connected to or from rainwater harvesting systems shall be clearly labelled
in accordance with the requirements of EN 16941-1 to avoid misconnection or
accidental consumption of non-potable water. The label must carry the clearly identified
marking in black text 5mm high on a green background and must be at least 100mm
long. The size of the lettering and labels should be increased as the pipe diameter
increases.

It should be noted that harvested rainwater will not be of potable standard unless it is
treated. Treatment requirements will vary dependent on what is the intended use for the
water. All infrastructure storing and carrying reclaimed water must not be utilised for
human consumption without adequate disinfection and treatment.

83
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Part 4 – Construction Requirements

4.1 Construction – General Requirements

The Developer shall be responsible for ensuring that the Works are properly
constructed in accordance with this Code of Practice. The Developer shall give at least
ten working days notice to Irish Water before construction of the Works commences.
He/she shall attend a Start-Up Meeting with the Irish Water Field Engineer to agree
procedures for and a programme of inspections for the quality assessment of the
infrastructure installations.

The Developer shall keep accurate site records of the installations during construction
to allow the preparation of accurate record drawings of the infrastructure installed. The
Works shall be constructed strictly in accordance with the design which has been
submitted by the Developer to Irish Water and which has been assessed and accepted
by Irish Water.

Water Mains, service connections, pumping stations and ancillary works shall be
constructed taking due cognisance of the requirements of this Code of Practice in a
manner such that:

a) where relevant, materials are:

i) adequately selected, mixed or prepared; and
ii) installed, used, or fixed to perform adequately the functions for
which they are intended;
b) no part of the Works is damaged or its function impaired by:
i) the method of construction; or
ii) runoff from the construction site entering the Sewer system;
c) damage to existing ecosystems and major trees in the Development site is
prevented;
d) soil erosion is minimised;
e) infrastructure installation is carried out in a safe, healthy and efficient
manner,
f) the environment is protected.

All necessary precautions shall be undertaken to avoid causing damage to or

interference with flow in existing water supply systems and sewers and such
precautions shall ensure that debris, silt, mud, etc. do not enter the existing sewer
system or any new sewer system being installed as part of the new Development.

All necessary precautions shall be taken to avoid misconnection of the new Works or
service connections to other utilities or to existing water supply systems that are not
proposed as the water supply network to which a connection is approved.

Construction operations shall be carried out in such a manner as to avoid damage to or

deterioration of the integrity of adjacent buildings or other infrastructure. Excavations in

84
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

roads and streets shall be carried out in accordance with the relevant Roads Authority
and the Road Opening Licence requirements. The construction operations shall be
carried out in accordance with the provisions outlined in the Guidance for Control and
Management of Traffic at Road Works, as published by the Department of Transport,
Tourism and Sport.

The Works shall be tested and inspected to ensure that:

 It is fit for all practical purpose, leak-tight based on the test requirements
outlined in Section 4.10;
 It has been properly cleaned, scoured, swabbed and disinfected and that
water quality testing has been carried out and found satisfactory;
 Pipes have not been damaged, deformed or subject to settlements during
construction;

The testing of the Works shall be carried out by the Developer using a competent
contractor experienced in water supply installation. The tester should be agreed
between the Developer and Irish Water, but all tests must be witnessed by Irish Water
field engineers or by Irish Water approved agents in advance of a full connection to the
Irish Water Network.

The Developer shall comply with the requirements of Section 1.5, relating to protection
of water quality, and Section 1.12, relating to hygiene requirements, during the
construction and commissioning of the Works.

4.2 Transportation, Storage, Handling and Use of Materials

Precautions shall be taken to prevent damage to pipes and fittings during transportation,
storage, handling and use of materials.

Suitable pipe supports shall be used on vehicles transporting pipes to prevent damage
to both internal and external coatings by impact, scratching, abrasion, etc.

Purpose made wide fabric slings or suitably designed machines for lifting pipes shall be
used during offloading and/or laying of pipes (particularly flexible pipes with concrete or
cement-mortar linings) to avoid damage and scratches to coatings as well as damage to
pipe ends. Damaged pipes shall not be used in the works.

All pipes and fittings shall be stored off the ground in a clean environment to prevent
any contamination of the material prior to its use. Timber supports shall be used during
transportation and stacking on site. All pipes shall be capped at either end until they are
used in the Works to prevent vermin and debris entering them and contaminating the
material before their use. All fittings shall be supplied in sealed bags and they shall
remain in these bags until immediately prior to installation. All pipes and fittings (and in
particular plastic pipes) should be kept clear of fuel oils, and any material which
becomes contaminated should be discarded.

85
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Materials and components shall be handled in such a manner as to avoid any damage
or contamination and in accordance with the applicable recommendations of the
manufacturers. Pipes and fittings, including coatings and linings, shall be examined for
damage prior to installation in the works. Plastic pipes shall be carefully examined for
flaws, in particular for signs of impact damage and scoring. No polyethylene pipe shall
be installed with scores or cuts penetrating more than 10% of the wall section thickness.
If, after installation, scores or cuts penetrating more than 10% of the wall section
thickness are found, the affected pipe length(s) shall be removed and replaced with an
undamaged pipe length.

4.3 Location of Other Utilities

All available records should be used to identify the location of utility ducts, cables, pipes,
etc. Proprietary cable locators shall be used prior to excavation taking place to locate
and mark these utilities. Trial holes to locate existing services shall be carried out where
required. Precautions shall be taken when carrying out trial holes and making
excavations for Water Mains and services to ensure that no damage is caused to the
existing service. Care shall also be taken to protect and support all existing services and
other works so as not to interfere with the working arrangements of the services.

4.4 Trench Widths

The trench shall be kept as narrow as possible but the width must allow adequate room
for pipe jointing as well as placing and compacting pipe bedding, haunch, surround and
backfill material. Trench widths at the level of the top of the pipe should allow adequate
room as safe working conditions will allow, with a desirable minimum width of 300mm
plus the external diameter of the pipe barrel, or a minimum trench width of 500mm. The
trench width should not exceed the pipe diameter by more than 500mm. A guideline for
trench widths is shown below in the following Table.

Pipe Diameter (mm) Typical Trench Width (mm)

< 80 < 500 subject to H&S, etc.
100 500
150 600
200 600
250 750
300 750

Normally Water Mains installed in Developments will not exceed 300mm in diameter. In
the event that pipe diameters of 350mm, 400mm and 450mm are installed, the trench
width will be 900mm.

Trench widths for pipe sizes less than 80mm may be less than 500mm, subject to
consideration being given to the trench depth, health and safety consideration, ground
conditions and construction difficulties.

86
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

In ground that contains ashes, chemicals or material that could accelerate corrosion or
deterioration of the pipe, contact shall be made with the Environmental Protection
Agency in relation to contaminated soil disposal requirements.

Edges of trenches in bituminous or concrete roads, footpaths and hard surfaces shall be
cut using a concrete saw or other equivalent mechanical means in advance of breaking
through the paved surface above the trench position. This shall be carried out in all
instances to reduce damage to the remaining hard surface and to restrict over-break of
the trench.

4.5 Trench Base

The trench base shall be free of hard objects such as stones, rock projections, tree
roots, etc. Where the trench base is through rock or shows recurrence of hard objects,
the material shall be excavated and allowance should be made for an additional
thickness of bedding of at least 150mm and the void backfilled with Clause 808 granular
material in accordance with the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (formally National
Roads Authority) Specification for Road Works. Soft spots in the trench base shall be
excavated out and replaced with Clause 808 material as outlined in Section 4.8 below.

4.6 Anchor/Thrust/Support Blocks

Gentle curves may be formed in jointed pipelines by angular deflection of the pipe joint.
The maximum angular deflection of each joint shall not exceed the manufacturer’s
recommendation. At the locations detailed below, where pipes need to be restrained
against movement under pressure, concrete thrust blocks shall be provided. Concrete
thrust blocks shall be positioned symmetrically with respect to the connecting pipe or
bend.

Appropriate thrust blocks shall be designed and installed on Water Mains where
required. Except where welded polyethylene pipelines or self-anchoring joints are used,
thrusts from bends and branches in Water Main shall be resisted by concrete thrust
blocks cast in contact with undisturbed ground. The thrust blocks shall be designed in
accordance with CIRIA Report 128, “Guide to the Design of Thrust Blocks for Buried
Pressure Pipelines”. The requirement for thrust blocks for polyethylene pipes shall be
based on the manufacturer’s advice.

Anchor and support blocks shall be constructed with concrete, C20/25, in accordance
with IS EN 206, 20mm aggregate size, in accordance with IS EN 12620. The thrust
blocks shall be formed using formwork to provide a rough cast finish. Anchor/thrust
blocks shall be provided on Water Mains at dead ends, at tee junctions, at bends of
curvature of 11.25 degrees or greater, at end caps, at both sides of sluice valve
Chambers, at any abrupt change in vertical or horizontal direction, at duck-foot hydrants
and at any location where water pressure is likely to distort the pipe line installation or
cause disproportionate movement. Plastic and polyethylene pipes shall be wrapped in a

87
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

compressible filler board, in accordance with IS EN 622-1 and IS EN 622-4, with an

outer plastic sheeting having a composition in accordance with BS 6076 before being
cast against or into anchor/thrust blocks

Concrete support blocks shall be cast to hydrant tees and sluice valve fittings installed
on polyethylene pipe lines in order to resist torque forces imposed on the fittings during
operation. Anti torque support blocks will only be required on sluice valves associated
with ductile iron pipe fittings of 150mm and above. Support blocks shall be cast so as
not to interfere with the operation and maintenance of the apparatus. In general support
blocks shall not cover pipe or fitting joints. Where this is unavoidable, the fittings/bolts
shall be wrapped in protective non-biodegradable tape.

All thrust/anchor/support blocks shall be allowed to develop adequate strength before

any internal pressure is applied to the pipeline.

Support blocks or special pipe support arrangements, including piling, beam supports,
etc., are required where pipes are laid in soft ground conditions, as discussed in
Section 4.8 below. Special support blocks are also required to anchor pipes where
gradients are 1:6 or greater. Design of supports, piles and ground beams should be
provided to Irish Water for assessment and review and additional information may be
required to complete this assessment. Pipe joints shall allow for longitudinal movement
due to thermal effects and thrusts due to internal pressure.

The Developer shall advise and seek review by Irish Water’s Connection and Developer
Services where it is proposed to install water mains with gradients that are steeper than
1:10. Alternative gradient proposals may be required in such instances.

While anchorage is required to resist thrust, it is not necessarily required at junctions or

bends where a fully integrated fusion weld PE pipe system is in place. However, the
provision of suitable anchors at bends in excess of 22.5 degrees on fully integrated
fusion weld PE pipe systems shall be provided in accordance with the pipe
manufacturer’s recommendations and requirements. Compressible filler board, in
accordance with the provisions of IS EN 622, Part 1 to Part 4, wrapped in plastic
sheeting having a composition in accordance with BS 6076, shall be provided for
protection between the concrete and the polyethylene pipe. Bituminous material shall
not be allowed come in contact with polyethylene pipes.

4.7 Cleaning Pipes

Before installation, all pipes for inclusion in the Works shall be examined internally for
dirt, stones or any foreign matter and shall be thoroughly cleaned before installation in
the final position. To prevent foreign matter or vermin from entering the Works, all open
ends of laid pipes shall be plugged, if work is suspended, until the next pipe is ready for
jointing. If proprietary pipe stops/plugs are supplied, they shall be left in place until just
before jointing.

88
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

4.8 Pipe Bedding, Haunch and Surrounds

Pipe bedding, haunch side fill and surround material for buried pipelines shall comply
with WIS 4-08-02 and its associated Guidance Note, IGN 4-08-01, UK Water Industry
Specifications, both updated in 2008. Granular material shall be 14mm to 5mm
(designation d/D 2/14) graded aggregate or 10mm (designation d/D 4/10) single sized
aggregate, complying with the requirements of IS EN 13242 and should have a
compaction factor value not greater than 0.2 when measured in accordance with IS EN
752. Both the 14mm to 5mm (designation d/D 2/14) graded aggregate and the 10mm
(designation d/D 4/10) single sized aggregate may be used for pipe diameters greater
than 100mm and up to 300mm. The 10mm (designation d/D 4/10) single sized
aggregate should be used with 100mm pipes or less. The 14mm to 5mm (designation
d/D 2/14) graded aggregate is to be used for pipe diameters of 350mm and above.

Pipes shall not be supported on stones or rock at any point along the pipe trench. Rock
shall be excavated to a depth of 150mm below the pipe invert of the trench required and
the void backfilled with Clause 804 granular material in accordance with the Transport
Infrastructure Ireland (formerly National Roads Authority) Specification for Road Works.
The granular bedding material shall be laid above this void backfill material.

Pipe bedding, to a depth of 150mm at least and to a depth of 200mm for pipes in
excess of 250mm diameter, and haunch side fill granular material shall be placed
uniformly underneath and on either side of the pipe, in layers not exceeding 100mm,
each layer being compacted by hand tamping until the required depth of bedding and
side fill has been achieved. Pipe surround shall be placed above the side fill material in
a similar fashion to bedding and side fill. Surround material shall be installed to the
required depth above the pipe crown, with a minimum depth of 200mm and to a
thickness of 300mm where pipes are located in or adjacent to trafficked areas. Care
shall be taken that the process of placing the bedding, side fill and surround material
does not displace the pipe from its correct line and level.

Where the Water Main is installed along roads and footpaths the minimum cover of
granular surround material should be 300mm above the crown of the pipe, irrespective
of the pipe being either rigid or flexible. The pipe trench above the granular surround in
this instance shall be backfilled in accordance with the requirements of Section 4.9
below for road and footpath areas. If a Water Main is installed in a green field area the
minimum cover of granular surround material should be 200mm above the crown of the
pipe and the Backfill shall be in accordance with Section 4.9 below for green field
areas.

The recommended minimum depth of cover (the depth comprising the pipe surround
above the crown plus backfill and road surface) shall be 900mm in roads. The depth
shall be increased where heavy traffic is anticipated (See Section 3.11 above.). The
recommended minimum depth of cover in a green field area (the depth comprising the
pipe surround above the crown plus backfill and topsoil) may be reduced to 750mm. If

89
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

those depths cannot be achieved, Irish Water shall be consulted to agree any design
proposals that would involve cover dimensions below that which is outlined above.

Protection measures may be required to address impact from loading in heavily

trafficked areas and to address minimum pipe cover situations. The detail of such
protection proposals shall be submitted to Irish Water for review and a response is
required before advancing with the work.

The primary approach should be to provide the pipe with the required depth of cover as
outlined in Section 3.11 above. However, if this cannot be achieved due to unavoidable
technical reasons, resulting in the depth of cover to the crown of the pipe being less
than the values set out in Section 3.11, pipe protection measures shall be provided.
Consultation with Irish Water is required in relation to the provision of these measures.
The protection measures shall comprise the provision of a reinforced concrete slab
designed to spread the imposed traffic load away from the pipe. The protection slab
shall be a minimum of 150mm thick and constructed of C30/35 concrete to IS EN 206
and reinforced with high tensile reinforcement to BS 4449. These protection measures
shall extend for the distance where the depth is below the depth limits outlined above. In
all cases, the depth to the crown of the pipe shall not be less than 750mm. These
additional protection measures are to be agreed with Irish Water. Any proposals for the
reduction in cover to the Pipe shall be accompanied by design calculations to address
loading and frost risk as well as any other relevant design issues.

Where soft ground conditions (situations where a California Bearing Ratio (CBR) less
than 5 exists) are anticipated or encountered, the soft material shall be excavated and
disposed to an approved disposal area, in accordance with the Waste Management Act.
Clause 804 granular material, in accordance with the Transport Infrastructure Ireland
(formerly National Roads Authority) Specification for Road Works, shall replace the
entire extent of the excavated material. Approved geo-textile wrapping shall be provided
to this additional backfill. Alternatively, special pipe support arrangements, including
piling, beam supports, etc., may be required where the depth of soft material is
excessive. Such arrangements relating to soft fill material replacement and/or pipe
supports shall be subject to submission to Irish Water of detailed proposals for review
and a response from Irish Water indicating agreement is required before advancing with
the work.

4.9 Backfill

Backfill material shall be placed above the granular surround material described in
Section 4.8 up as far as the underside of the road construction.

The Backfill material shall comprise Clause 804 granular material, in accordance the TII
“Specification for Road Works”, and it shall be used where the Water Main is installed
along proposed roadways and footpaths in the Development. If the backfill material is
within 500mm of a concrete pipe of structure, Clause 808 material shall be used instead
of Clause 804 material. The use of Clause 804/808 Backfill material shall also apply

90
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

where the trench is in green areas running within 500mm of roadways and footways.
The Backfill material shall be placed in layers not exceeding 200mm, each layer being
compacted to the requirements of the Specification for Road Works. The first layer of
backfill above the granular surround shall be compacted in 150mm layers. Mechanical
compaction equipment shall not be used until there is a minimum of 450mm of
compacted material above the crown of the pipe.

Alternative Backfill material to that described above (Clause 804 or Clause 808) of the
pipe trench will only be allowed by Irish Water where the Roads Authority in whose
functional area the Development is located provides written approval to the Developer
to the use of such alternative acceptable material. Evidence of this written approval to
use alternative acceptable Backfill material shall be provided to Irish Water in advance
of the commencement of construction on site or in advance of the issue of the
Connection Agreement, provided construction has not commenced on site. The relevant
Roads Authority should specify this alternative acceptable Backfill material and this
should require compliance with the definition of “acceptable material” as outlined in
Clause 601 of the TII “Specification for Roadworks, Series 600 – Earthworks”, Table
6/1, with the specific Class of “acceptable material” clearly nominated by the relevant
Roads Authority in the written approval.

Backfill to the pipe trench above the pipe granular surround material and beneath the
road surface in Public Roads shall be to the requirements of “Guidelines for the
Opening, Backfilling and Reinstatement of Trenches in Public Roads”, Second Edition,
or subsequent amendments published by the Department of Transport, Tourism and
Sport, unless otherwise specified and to the requirements of the relevant Road’s
Authority’s Road Opening Licence.

The opening, backfilling and reinstatement of trenches on National Roads shall be in

accordance with the TII “Specification for the Reinstatement of Openings in National
Roads” July 2011, unless otherwise specified.

In the case of any discrepancy between this Code of Practice and the “Guidelines for
the Opening, Backfilling and Reinstatement of Trenches in Public Roads” or the TII
“Specification for Road Works” where pipes are located in Public Roads, this Code of
Practice and their associated Standard Details shall take precedence.

Selected excavated material may be used as trench Backfill in green-field areas above
the granular pipe surround material with the approval of Irish Water. This selected
Backfill shall comply with the requirements of “acceptable material” as outlined in
Clause 601 of the TII “Specification for Roadworks, Series 600 – Earthworks”, Table
6/1, Class 8, Class 2 (Miscellaneous Fill) and is generally referred to as Type B fill. It
shall be uniformly compactable material free from clay lumps greater than 75mm,
stones greater than 40mm, tree roots, vegetable matter, any kind of building rubbish,
etc. This material shall be placed in layers not exceeding 300mm in depth and
compacted in accordance with the Transport Infrastructure Ireland (formerly National
Roads Authority) Specification for Road Works.

91
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Where pipelines are installed traversing a public road, the backfill material above the
granular surround shall comprise cement bound granular material (CBGM), Category B,
in accordance with the NRA “Specification for Road Works”, Series 800.

4.10 Testing and Commissioning

4.10.1 General

After the pipes have been laid and jointed, several steps are required for the
commissioning of water mains as follows:

 cleansing of pipes
 pressure testing
 swabbing after testing
 disinfection
 disposal of water
 flushing,
 water quality sampling and testing
 connection to the water Network

Before undertaking these activities for the commissioning of the water mains, the
Developer shall submit a method statement for the review and approval of the Irish
Water field engineer, prior to commencing these steps for the various stages of testing,
swabbing, disinfection, water quality sampling and for the disposal of water, etc.

The Developer shall comply with the requirements of Section 1.12 above when
undertaking the activities associated with testing and commissioning of the water mains
associated with the Works.

Prior to connection of the Water Main to the Waterworks, water quality (bacteriological
and chemical) sampling and testing shall be carried out and confirmation obtained that
the system is fit for commissioning. Connection of the water supply system will only be
allowed after all of these procedures have been successfully completed.

4.10.2 Cleansing of Pipes

On completion of construction and before any disinfection, the internal surfaces shall be
cleansed thoroughly by scouring and swabbing. Foam swabs shall be used and
recovered following swabbing. The swabs should be used only once. Swabs shall be
removed from pipelines in the presence of the Irish Water field engineers, at their
discretion. The time, date, number and sizes of swabs introduced and removed shall be
recorded and submitted to the Irish Water field engineer. Location plans shall be
provided showing the location where swabs were introduced to and retrieved from the
Works.

92
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

4.10.3 Pressure Testing

4.10.3.1 General

The entire pipeline shall be pressure tested following installation of the Works on site.
The pressure tests shall be conducted by the Developer’s contractor, who shall be
experienced in such testing procedures, in the presence an Irish Water’s field engineer
or an Irish Water agent’s supervisor.

Water Mains shall be tested after they are jointed and before full backfilling commences
in as far as practicable. During testing, sufficient backfilling material shall be provided
above the pipe crown to resist uplift or buckling movement of the pipe and all joints shall
be exposed.

Testing shall be carried out between suitably supported blank end pieces. Closed
valves shall not be used to isolate new pipework being commissioned from existing
operational water mains. Testing between ‘live’ shut valves will not be accepted. Before
testing, valves should be checked and sealed, the section of Main filled with water and
the air released. Water used for testing should be obtained from the Irish Water
Network. This will be provided, subject to availability, by Irish Water at the Developer’s
expense.

All the exposed parts of the pipeline, including the Chambers, shall be visually checked
and any leaks or damp spots rectified.

The following general requirements are relevant:

 To avoid airlocks there must be suitable air valves on the pipeline;

 Filling must proceed slowly, preferably from the lower side;
 The test must be hydrostatic and shall take place between blank flanges; bolted
or welded to pipe ends or end caps fully supported by anchor blocks;
 All pressure gauges used for the monitoring of tests must be plate sized pressure
gauges or digital loggers with an appropriate pressure range consistent with the
pressure being measured, properly calibrated with calibration records available
for inspection, to ensure that any losses can be adequately monitored.

Any water used for testing shall be disposed of in a safe and environmentally suitable
fashion. All water used for testing shall be clean and free from impurities. Discharge of
the test water to sewers in the control of Irish Water shall not take place without Irish
Water’s express approval.

4.10.3.2 Testing of Ductile Iron Pressure Pipelines

Testing of Ductile Iron Mains shall be undertaken in accordance with IGN 4-01-03,
Guide to Testing of Pressure Pipes and Fittings for Use by Public Water Suppliers,
October 2015. A formal test report, to the requirements of Irish Water, shall be

93
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

submitted to Irish Water field engineers giving the complete details of the test that was
carried out in accordance with Section 4 of IGN 4-01-03, regardless of the result of the
test.

The system test pressure (STP) on the Ductile Iron Rising Main shall be 1.5 times MDP
at the lowest point of the pipe. MDP is a pressure equivalent to the sum of the maximum
continuous operating pressure of the pipeline plus an allowance for surge pressure. The
allowance for surge pressure, where this is not known, shall not be less than 2 bar. The
maximum continuous operating pressure of the pipeline may not be known in every
case. In any event, the system test pressure on the Ductile Iron Main shall be at least
10 bar.

In all instances, the test pressure should not be greater than 1.5 times the maximum
pressure of the lowest rated component (the pressure that a component can withstand
continuously in service).

A preliminary test phase shall be carried when testing Ductile Iron pressure pipelines
where the pressure is taken to the operating pressure (without exceeding specific test
pressure (STP)) to:

A) Stabilise the part of the pipeline to be tested by allowing most of the time
dependent movements (see IGN 4-01-03 specific time lines)
B) Achieve an appropriate saturation with water when using water absorbing
materials (e.g. cement linings on iron pipes).

For iron pipes with epoxy lining the settlement test should be completed in 15 minutes.
Where Ductile Iron pipes have cement linings, the Rising Main should be allowed to
‘settle’ for a 24-hour period.

The pressure in the pipeline shall then be raised steadily until the specified test
pressure is reached in the lowest part of the section and the pressure shall be
maintained at this level, by pumping if necessary, for a period of one hour. If there is
less than 1% air in the main, the pressure should rise at a uniform rate.

The pump shall then be disconnected, and no further water shall be permitted to enter
the pipeline for a further period of one hour. At the end of this period, a record of the
pressure will be made by the testing contractor. The original pressure shall be then
restored by pumping and the loss measured by drawing off water from the pipeline until
the pressure as recorded at the end of the test is again reached. The acceptance
criteria for the pressure test shall be those outlined in Section 6.4, Table 2, of IGN 4-01-
03.

If the pipe fails to meet the acceptance criteria, the test shall be stopped and the excess
water bled carefully from the system until only static head remains. A search for the
potential leak should be initiated. After leaks are found and repaired, the test shall be
repeated.

94
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

In addition to any tests on separate sections, the whole pipeline shall be tested on
completion to the same pressure and by the same procedure as that outlined for
individual sections.

4.10.3.3 Testing of Polyethylene Pipelines

It is not necessary to have any preliminary test for polyethylene (PE) pipes. The amount
of exposed pipe shall be kept to a minimum to reduce the effect of temperature
changes. The testing of PE Pressure Pipelines shall be carried out in accordance with
the requirements of IGN 4-01-03, Guide to Testing of Pressure Pipes and Fittings for
Use by Public Water Suppliers, October 2015. A formal test report, to the requirements
of Irish Waer, shall be submitted to Irish Water field engineers giving the complete
details of the test that was carried out in accordance with Section 4 of IGN 4-01-03,
regardless of the result of the test.

The system test pressure (STP) on the PE Rising Main shall be 1.5 times MDP at the
lowest point of the pipe. MDP is a pressure equivalent to the sum of the maximum
continuous operating pressure of the pipeline plus an allowance for surge pressure. The
allowance for surge pressure, where this is not known, shall not be less than 2 bar. The
maximum continuous operating pressure of the pipeline may not be known in every
case. In any event, the system test pressure on the PE Rising Main shall be at least 10
bar.

The maximum system test pressure shall not exceed 1.5 times the maximum rated
pressure (maximum pressure that a component can withstand continuously in service)
of the lowest rated component.

Mechanical fittings are usually only tested to 20 Bar. If the onsite test pressure is to
exceed this, a check shall be carried out to ensure that the fittings can withstand the
pressure for the test duration.

The acceptance criteria for the pressure test shall be those outlined in Section 5.4.4 of
IGN 4-01-03. If the pipe fails to meet the acceptance criteria, the test shall be stopped
and the excess water bled carefully from the system. A search for the potential leak
should be initiated. After leaks are found and repaired, the test shall be repeated, but
only after a time greater than four times the total original test time has elapsed to allow
for complete creep deformation recovery.

All electro fusion jointing and testing shall be in accordance with WIS-4-32-08,
Specification for the Fusion Jointing of Polyethylene Pressure Pipeline Systems Using
PE80 and PE100 materials. For all saddle joints a 2 minute hydraulic test at 18 Bar shall
be applied to the fused fitting prior to tapping in accordance with WIS-4-32-08.

95
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

4.10.4 Swabbing after Testing

Subject to the discretion of the field engineer, on completion of the pressure test, foam
swabs, soaked in chlorine, shall be passed through the Main for final cleansing a
sufficient number of times to achieve clear wash water.

Swabs shall be removed from pipelines in the presence of the Irish Water field
engineers, at their discretion.

Any temporary connection to the public Waterworks to allow testing, cleaning, flushing,
swabbing, and sampling shall be fitted with double check valves to prevent backflow
from the Works.

The time, date, number and sizes of swabs introduced and removed shall be recorded
and submitted to the Irish Water field engineer. Location plans shall be provided
showing the location where swabs were introduced to and retrieved from Works.

4.10.5 Disinfection

The Developer shall submit for approval to the Irish Water field engineer a method
statement that includes drawings showing the location of the disinfectant insertion point
and disinfection sampling points and which outlines the proposed methodology to be
used for disinfection.

Pipelines shall be filled with potable water and a disinfectant inserted into the main to
achieve a minimum free chlorine level of 20mg/l at the beginning of a 24 hour contact
period. A maximum free chlorine level of 30mg/l shall not be exceeded at the beginning
of the contact time period. Disinfection sample points shall be adjacent to the insertion
point(s) and at the ends of the mains being disinfected. All pipelines shall be disinfected.
This can be achieved generally using a sodium hypochlorite solution or other
disinfectant subject to Irish Water approval which is suitable for drinking water
disinfection. Typical products on the market contain 10 – 14% available chlorine by
solution and the dose rate is dependent on the strength of the solution and the volume
of water required in the Water Main.

Service pipes shall be flushed with mains water before use and will generally not require
disinfection procedures. Service pipes with an outside diameter greater than 50mm or
those where there is a risk that the pipe may have been contaminated shall be
swabbed, disinfected, flushed, etc. as outlined above and undergo water quality
sampling as outlined below in Section 4.11.

Disinfectants shall comply with Section 13 of the 2014 Drinking Water Regulations, SI
122 of 2014, which specifies the quality of treatment, equipment and materials relating
to the preparation or distribution of water intended for human consumption. Dosing shall
be achieved using a calibrated dosing pump.

96
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Chlorine-based solutions and tablets shall not be used after the stated “expiry date”.
Procedures shall be in place to ensure that diluted chlorine solutions (for use for
example in spray chlorination techniques) are also used within a stated time to ensure
their effectiveness. Chlorine-based solutions shall only be stored in dedicated and
clearly marked containers. Storage sites shall have sufficient bunding to prevent
accidental spills affecting a wider area. Containers previously used for the storage of
any other products shall not be used.

The typical dosage of Sodium Hypochlorite solution is as follows;

Mains diameter (mm) Volume of Cl Volume of Cl

required/100m required/100m
@10% @14%

100mm 150ml 110ml

150mm 350ml 250ml

Other dosage figures can be interpolated from the above figures to meet the required
disinfection standard.

The free chlorine levels shall be tested at the disinfection sample points at the beginning
of the contact period using a chlorine comparator test kit to ensure that the above
minimum required chlorine levels have been attained. The test results, sample
locations, date and time shall be recorded.

The chlorinated water shall be left in the Water Main for a minimum contact period of 24
hours for checking of residual chlorine. At the end of the contact period, water shall be
sampled from the same points. These samples shall be tested using a chlorine
comparator test kit. The test results, sample locations, date and time shall be recorded
and the free chlorine levels shall also be recorded. It is a requirement that at the end of
the contact period that a minimum free chlorine level of 10mg/l is maintained or that the
pre-contact period chlorine level has not been reduced by more that 50%, where the
pre-contact free chlorine level exceeds 20mg/l. The test results, sample locations, date
and time shall be recorded. If the 10mg/l minimum free chlorine level has not been
maintained at the end of the contact period at all sample points, or the 50% reduction in
pre contact free chlorine level has been exceeded, the disinfection process shall be
repeated. At the end of this process, Irish Water shall be supplied with full details of the
disinfection process and the associated samples taken.

4.10.6 Disposal of Water

The water used for disinfection should be disposed of in a safe and environmentally
responsible fashion. Water used for disinfection shall be de-chlorinated prior to
discharge to sewers or to watercourses. Discharge of the water to sewers in the control
of Irish Water shall not take place without Irish Water’s express approval. The de-
chlorination / disposal of the water containing residual chlorine shall be carried out in an

97
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

approved manner to ensure no damage is caused by shock loading of the sewer or

damage to a watercourse.

4.10.7 Flushing

Water Mains containing super chlorinated water shall be flushed with normal potable
water and scoured so that the water therein achieves a free chlorine level within 5% of
the incoming water used for flushing. The free chlorine levels of both the discharged
water and the incoming feed water shall be measured to ensure the whole of the main
has been adequately flushed. The free chlorine levels shall be tested using a chlorine
comparator test kit to ensure that the above minimum required chlorine levels have
been attained. The chlorine residuals shall be recorded for audit purposes and provided
to the Irish Water field engineer.

Following the discharge of the super chlorinated water, the Main shall be refilled with
potable water and a sample of water taken for water quality analysis.

4.11 Water Quality Sampling and Testing

Following the disinfection, flushing and the discharge of the super chlorinated water, the
Main shall be refilled with potable water and left stand for 24 hours. Samples shall be
taken and tested of the water within the Main. On-site and off-site testing of the Main’s
water quality is required.

Samples shall be taken and tested on-site for the following parameters:

Parameter Maximum Permitted Level

Residual Chlorine Similar to parent supply
Appearance Clear and bright
Taste No unusual taste
Odour No unusual odour

Sample of water shall be taken for off-site microbiological and chemical analysis. This
sampling shall be undertaken by trained personnel from a testing laboratory accredited
to ISO 17025 for the required water quality tests using aseptic technique. Such samples
shall be taken in accordance with the relevant Section of the EPA Sampling Protocol.
The sampling for water quality testing shall be carried and the samples transported to
the testing laboratory using documented chain of custody tracking and management
methods.

Water samples shall be tested at laboratories that are accredited to ISO 17025 for the
required tests. (A current list of accredited laboratories is available on the Irish National
Accreditation Board website at www.INAB.ie in the Directory of Accredited Bodies). The
Irish Water field engineer shall be provided with prior notification of the proposed testing
laboratory to be used, and its accreditation certificate. The scope of the accreditation
shall include the testing/analysis being undertaken by the laboratory.

98
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Water quality samples shall be taken for analysis from extremities of the new mains, tie
in points, dead ends, and at intermediate points so that the maximum distance between
sampling points does not exceed 1,000 metres, when measured along the mains The
location of the proposed sampling points shall be submitted to the Irish Water field
engineer for approval prior to sampling commencing.

The results of the onsite tests shall be recorded on the sample bottles, which shall then
be sent to an accredited laboratory to be tested. Testing shall be for the following
parameters and the microbiological testing data shall be provided to IW as follows:

Development Reference
Public Water Supply
Sample Location and Grid Ref
Sample Date
Testing Laboratory (append certificate of
analysis)
Parameter Result Maximum Permitted Level
Coliform Bacteria 0/100ml (max)
E. Coli 0/100ml (max)
Enterococci 0/100ml (max)
Clostridium Perfringens 0/100ml (max)
pH Between 6.5 and 9.5
Turbidity Less than 4 NTU
Conductivity 2,500 uS/cm at 20˚C (max)

A control sample shall also be taken from the supply feed and tested for the above
parameters.

The connection of the Works will not be allowed until a copy of a satisfactory
bacteriological analysis has been submitted to Irish Water or its Agents.

4.12 Connection to the Water Network

All connections of the Works to the Irish Water Network will be made by Irish Water
personnel or its agents. The final connection of the Works shall only be allowed
following:

4.12.1 A satisfactory pressure test(s);

4.12.2 Satisfactory disinfection of the Water Main;
4.12.3 Satisfactory water quality analysis results;
4.12.4 Provision of “as constructed drawings” and records and all Final
Documents;
4.12.5 Installation of marker posts, plates, etc.,
4.12.6 Confirmation that the installation is completed in accordance with all
design documentation, etc.

99
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Approval to proceed with final connection will only be given when Irish Water is satisfied
that all pre-connection requirements as outlined above have been met, that all Final
Documents have been submitted and are deemed satisfactory and that a final site walk-
off confirms that the infrastructure is to an acceptable standard and that it is fit for
purpose.

Final connection of the Works to the Network shall be carried out within 14 days of a
successful water quality analysis being achieved. Further disinfection and
bacteriological testing will be required if this period is exceeded at the Developer’s cost.
Some leeway on the requirement to additional disinfection and water quality testing up
to a 28 day period may be provided subject to specific approval by Irish Water.

4.13 Final Flushing of Water Mains

When Mains have been satisfactorily tested and connected to the Irish Water Network,
and before they are put into permanent operation, they shall be flushed with potable
water through a standpipe placed at the end hydrant of the network pipework. This shall
be carried out before the Main is brought into use.

4.14 Service Connection to Water Supply Distribution System

Individual service pipe connection fittings shall be fitted to the Water Main at the time
that it is being laid and jointed. The service pipe connection piece (generally an
electrofusion tapping tee for a PE pipe or saddle/ferrule for a DI pipe) shall be
fitted/connected to the Main but the tapping of the service connection fitting to the Main
shall not be undertaken until after the pressure test of the Main has been successfully
completed. A service pipe shall be jointed to the service connection fitting unit and laid
from there to the proposed Boundary Box location. A coil of service pipe extending
beyond the Boundary Box location shall be provided at this location, capped with a
proprietary fitting and protected for future connection to the Boundary Box.

The service pipes between the tapping unit and Boundary Box location shall be tested
in accordance with the requirements of IGN 4-01-03, Guide to Testing of Pressure
Pipes and Fittings for Use by Public Water Suppliers, (pressure tested to 18 Bar for two
minutes – “the two-minute test”). The Irish Water field engineer, at his/her discretion, will
outline the proportion of service pipes that are to be tested. The results/observations of
the service pipe pressure tests should be recorded together with the start time and date
of the test, the location of the service pipe and the details of the contractor who
conducted the test.

Following successful pressure testing of the Main and the service pipe, the tapping of
the connection fitting units to the Works Main shall be completed by using under
pressure tapping units and a suitable tapping rig. The Main should be de-pressurised at
the time of the carrying out of the tapping with water at a standing pressure in the Main.

100
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Visual inspection of the tapping joint shall be undertaken to confirm that it is leak free.
The trench for the Main and service connection pipe may be backfilled thereafter.

Service pipes up to 50mm diameter (OD) will generally not require disinfection
procedures as outlined above in Section 4.10.5. During disinfection of the Water Main,
as outlined, the service connection pipe shall be flushed through also. Service pipes
with an outside diameter greater than 50mm or those of any size where there is a risk
that the pipe may have been contaminated shall be swabbed, disinfected, flushed, etc.
as outlined above and undergo water quality sampling as outlined above in Section
4.11.

Once the Boundary Box has been set in position, the service pipe coil shall be cut to
length and connected to the inlet fitting of the Boundary Box. A short length of service
pipe shall be connected to the outlet fitting of the Boundary Box. When the distribution
pipework is being installed from the Boundary Box to the Premises, the short length of
service pipe shall be replaced with a new length of service pipe to form the Distribution
System within the Premises boundary such that there is no connections between the
Boundary Box and the internal stop valve at the kitchen sink. There shall be no branch
connection(s) to the distribution pipe between the Boundary Box and the internal stop
valve at the kitchen sink.

The full service connection for the individual properties should only be made once the
Distribution System has been connected to a stopcock inside the property or a sealed
end cap has been fitted at that location.

The Distribution System within the premises supplied by the new service connections
should be in accordance with the Local Authority Building Control requirements and with
the Building Regulations. The property should be suitably complete and secure before
the service is connected.

The service connection between the property boundary and the premises, including the
Distribution System, is the responsibility of the Developer and appropriate cleaning,
sterilisation and flushing should be carried out on this section also. The Developer shall
advise Irish Water of these activities to allow a site inspection to be carried out.

After connection of the Main to the Waterworks and before the Distribution System is
put into operation, the service connection pipe and the Distribution System shall be
flushed through by running the kitchen sink tap to flush out the pipework. It is advisable
that appropriate chlorine residual testing and water quality testing of the water be
carried out before fully commissioning the Premise pipework and that these results
show that the water is of potable water quality.

The minimum spacing between tapping points off of a Water Main is dependent on the
size of the Main and the pipe materials. Generally, the minimum spacing for
polyethylene and iron Mains is 300mm.

101
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Ferrules and ferrule straps and saddle straps for the connection of service pipes to
Water Mains shall meet the relevant requirements of WIS 4-22-02. Stop valves for
underground applications shall meet the requirements of BS 5433. All ferrules provided
shall be threaded and of the swivel type. The outlet shall be at 90 deg. to the stem and it
shall be free to rotate 360 deg. around the stem. Ferrules shall be capable of being
installed dry or under pressure onto ductile iron or steel Mains. Ferrule outlets shall be
suitable to be connected to polyethylene services with push fit or compression joints.

Saddle straps shall be designed to be used with ferrules for making Service
Connections to polyethylene pipes, ductile iron pipes or to steel Mains.

Self tapping ferrule straps shall incorporate an integral ferrule with a self contained
cutter for use on polyethylene or PVC Mains. These straps shall enable a Service
Connection to be made without the need for drilling machines. They shall be made of
non ferrous material in accordance with the requirements of WIS 4-22-02.

Electrofusion tapping assemblies may be used for tapping to polyethylene Water Mains,
subject to agreement with Irish Water.

Following connection of the Works to the Irish Water Network, Irish Water will install the
bulk meter in the meter chamber provided by the Developer. Where such bulk meters
are not required (Developments with a water demand of less than 20 m 3 per day), Irish
Water will fit a domestic sized meter in a night flow chamber, as described in Section
3.15.4.

At intervals during the Defects Liability Period, at a frequency required by Irish Water’s
field engineers, the Developer shall undertake a night flow audit of the Works (including
the Water Main, the service pipes and Boundary Box system) within the Development to
confirm the water tightness of the Works. The night flow audit shall use the bulk meter
(or night flow chamber in smaller Developments) to undertake these audits. These night
flow audits shall be undertaken at the Developer’s sole cost. If these night flow audits
identify leaks in the Works, the Developer shall undertake investigations to locate the
leaks and undertake remedial works to repair the Works. A further night flow audit shall
be undertaken to confirm the success of the repairs. Such investigations and repairs
shall be undertaken at the Developer’s sole cost.

4.15 Final Documents

On completion of the installation of water supply infrastructure, Irish Water will require
the submission of Final Documents to allow it to establish that the new water supply
infrastructure has been installed to standards compliant with the Standard Details and
Code of Practice and that other relevant provisions of a legal, planning and statutory
nature have been addressed. This documentation is addressed in Section 1.7 above.
As part of this documentation, the Developer shall submit As-Constructed
documentation. The requirements of As Constructed documentation is also indicated in

102
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Section 1.7 above. Three copies of the As-Constructed drawings should be submitted
on completion of the works as well as digital copies.

4.16 Repairs, Hygiene Requirements

Any repairs carried out by the Developer’s contractor/sub-contractor during the Defects
Liability Period shall be undertaken with the same level of care, workmanship, material,
etc. as that outlined above for water supply infrastructure. A standard operating
procedure for leak repairs activities shall be adopted as required by Irish Water
Operation and Maintenance Unit. Cognisance shall be taken of Section 1.5 and
Section 1.12 above in relation to hygiene and precautions to prevent contamination of
the Works.

103
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Part 5 – Booster Pumping Stations, Kiosks and Ancillary Works

5.1 Introduction

Due to the topography of Developments and the available residual pressure within Irish
Water’s Network, it may be necessary to provide booster pumping stations to deliver
water to new Developments.

Pressure Booster pumping stations are designed to boost the pressure of water within a
water supply system. They are usually located remotely from the main pumping station,
as in hilly topography where high-pressure zones are required, or to handle peak flows
in a distribution system that can only otherwise handle the normal flow requirements. A
schematic of a booster station is provided below.

This Section covers the following aspects of treated water pump stations and booster
pump stations:

5.1.1 General technical aspects;

5.1.2 Pumping Regimes;
5.1.3 Centrifugal Pumps;
5.1.4 Testing & Commissioning;
5.1.5 Energy Monitoring Requirements;
5.1.6 Associated accessories;

Booster pumps shall be located in appropriately sized kiosks or enclosure structures. If

located in a kiosk, the requirements of Section 5.99 below shall be followed. If located
within a dedicated structure, the requirements of Section 5.10 shall be followed.

104
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Modelling of the water supply Network may be required in situations where booster
pump stations are proposed to ensure the proposed booster pump station does not
have a negative impact on the existing network or customers.

5.2 Booster Pump Station – Design Submission Requirements

Should a pressure booster pump station be required as part of the Works for a new
Development, the following information, as a minimum, shall be submitted to Irish Water
as part of the design submission outlined in Section 2.4

• Drawing of the existing and proposed water Network, including any bypass
pipework, tie-ins to the Network, etc.;
• Location of booster pump station;
• Pressure reading results of the existing network;
• Calculation of the duty point for the pumps;
• Longitudinal section of the proposed water network;
• P&ID drawing of the booster pump station;
• Control philosophy for booster pump station;
• Control panel drawings;
• Pump curves and data sheets;
• Data sheet of booster pump station enclosure
• Data sheets for all equipment to be installed

Before the location of a booster pumping station is decided, the Developer should
consult with the electricity and telecommunications providers on the availability and cost
of providing the requisite power supply, the supply characteristics, the security of supply
and the deed of Easement requirements. The Developer shall also carry out a GMS
signal strength survey for 3G coverage for the telemetry system at the station to ensure
that signals can be transmitted from the transmitter and received at the reception point.
The electricity and telecommunications supply arrangements and GSM survey shall be
the Developer’s responsibility and cost and these shall be provided for the exclusive
operation of the booster pumping station.

5.3 Booster Pump Stations - Technical Requirements

The following technical requirements shall apply to booster pumping stations:

5.3.1 A minimum of 1 no. stand-by pump, with a capacity equal to that of a duty
pump, shall be provided at each booster pump station. Stand-by pumps
shall be installed on-line and be available continually.
5.3.2 All pumps shall be arranged for self-priming and shall be designed to be
un-chokeable;
5.3.3 Pumps shall be driven by electric motors (and gearboxes if necessary);
5.3.4 All pump bearings shall be designed for a service life of not less than
100,000 hours;

105
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

5.3.5 Pump bearings shall be designed for loading 20% in excess of calculated
maximum loading and shall be suitable for reverse rotation;
5.3.6 Pump rotating assemblies should be statically and dynamically tested and
balanced;
5.3.7 All pump sets shall be fitted with both a suction and discharge pressure
gauge c/w isolation valve;
5.3.8 All pump sets shall be fitted with both a suction and discharge isolation
sluice valve and discharge non-return valves;
5.3.9 All pump sets shall be provided with manufacturer’s works test certificates;
5.3.10 Lubrication arrangements shall be designed to avoid any contamination of
the pumped liquid;
5.3.11 Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) requirements of the pumps, based on
the 2% output drop criterion shall be at least 1m less than the NPSH
available at every working condition;
5.3.12 Water velocities in the pump suction branches shall not exceed 2m/sec
and those in delivery branches shall not exceed 3.5m/sec when the pump
is operating within its specified duty range;
5.3.13 Within the specified duty range there shall be no discernible noise due to
hydraulic turbulence or cavitation within either the pump or it’s associated
pipework and valves;
5.3.14 The pumps shall have an operating speed of 1,450 r.p.m. If a pump with
an operating speed of 1,450 rpm is not available on the market to suit the
application, the Developer is required to demonstrate this and only on
confirmation of this by Irish Water will an proposed alternative speed pump
be considered for the booster pump station;
5.3.15 Pump characteristics shall be stable, non-overloading and shall be such
that the pumps shall operate close to maximum efficiency at the design
duty point;
5.3.16 All pump/motor couplings shall be laser aligned following final installation
of baseplate and pipework;
5.3.17 All motors must operate at or above the IE 3 efficiency band;
5.3.18 A bypass pipe arrangement shall be provided at the booster pump station,
to include a sluice valve and a non-return valve (The sluice valve is to be
left open during normal operation).

5.4 Booster Station Pump Types and their Requirements

Irish Water requires the use of centrifugal pump types in booster pump stations. Such
centrifugal pumps shall comply with the following:

5.4.1 Pumps shall give continuous or prolonged running at the specified output
under normal site conditions and abnormal conditions not caused by either
electrical or mechanical faults;
5.4.2 Pumps shall have a stable H-Q characteristic and show a sufficient rise
from the duty point to closed valve to avoid large changes in Q with small
changes in H;

106
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

5.4.3 Pumps shall be suitable for operating in parallel;

5.4.4 Pumps shall be provided with motors sized to suit the above requirements;
5.4.5 Pumps shall be provided with motor rating to include 5% allowance at all
operating points.
5.4.6 The materials of construction shall be compatible with the pumping of
treated drinking water and shall be manufactured of material suitable for
contact with water for human consumption.

Impellers and pump shafts shall be statically balanced as individual units. After
assembling the impeller on the shaft the rotating assembly shall be dynamically
balanced. The impeller shall be readily withdraw-able from the pump casing without the
need to disconnect the adjoining pipework and with the minimum disturbance of pump
drive shafting. Suction arrangements shall be such as to avoid pre-rotation in the
suction pipework and present a good flow pattern at the entrance to the impeller.

5.5 Booster Station Testing & Commissioning

Pumps to be performance tested to ISO 9960, Grade 2. Calibration certificates for all
pumps shall be provided in hard bound, loose leaf document format. Rotary-dynamic
pumps (of the centrifugal, mixed flow and axial types) shall be tested in accordance with
the Hydraulic Institute’s ANSI/HI 14.6.

All duty/standby pump configurations shall be tested by manually failing the duty
pump(s) to prove automatic operation of the standby unit during the test period. All
pumps shall be operated to show that the maximum specified output for each pump can
be achieved against the maximum specified delivery pressure. The tests shall
demonstrate that the output can be maintained in a stable manner and that vibration,
temperature rise and noise of the pumps are within the specified limits. All controls and
instrumentation relating to the operation of the pumps shall be monitored throughout the
test to prove correct operation.

The operation of the installed pumps shall be monitored and recorded for the duration of
the Defects Liability Period (or as otherwise specified) by the Developer and the results
provided to Irish Water. Within this time the pumps energy efficiency shall be monitored
and shall achieve the manufacturer’s efficiency rating.

5.6 Booster Station Pump Efficiency

The efficiency of all pumps shall be checked. The Developer shall supply the original
manufacturer’s pump performance curves for the pumps under test in order that
efficiencies can be compared.

The delivery pressure of the pumps shall be measured on the delivery pipework from
the pumps. The Developer shall provide pressure-monitoring equipment and install
pressure tapping points as necessary for the measurement of pressures during the
performance testing. Adjustments for differences in elevations shall be made, as

107
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

necessary. Delivery valves shall be throttled as necessary to simulate the duty

pressures. Pump delivery flow shall be measured through the appropriate permanent
flow meters.

The electrical power consumption of pumps shall be measured at the input to each high
lift pump drive by portable power monitors. This shall record kW, kVA and power factor
over each day of testing to a minimum accuracy of 1% of the rating of the drive.
Measurements shall be taken using all duty and standby pump configurations.

The pump efficiency shall be measured using thermodynamic monitoring equipment

connected through tapping points provided to the suctions and delivery pipework by the
Contractor.

5.7 Booster Stations Pressure Control

A pressure transducer complete with isolation valves shall be fitted on the suction side
and discharge side of the booster pump set. The pressure transducers readings shall be
made available for telemetry as per Section 5.21.

All pump sets shall be fitted with both a suction and discharge pressure gauge complete
with isolation valve;

The booster pump station shall be fitted with a pressure vessel of not less than 100
litres capacity.

5.8 Flow Metering

Flow meters shall be provided to measure and record the water flow being pumped
forward through the water supply system. Magnetic flow meters shall be provided
complete with a digital display showing instantaneous and accumulated flow records. A
“no-flow” protection facility shall be provided for the pumps. Flow meter and associated
equipment, including calibration test certification, will be required for all pumping
stations. The controller for the magnetic flowmeter shall be mounted in the kiosk.

The flow meter should be provided in a separate flow meter chamber, located a
sufficient distance from all fittings and bends, to ensure that interference of the
measurement does not arise from flow turbulence associated with such fittings.

5.9 Kiosk Requirements

Kiosks shall be provided to house the control panel and associated equipment for
booster pump stations. The size of kiosk will be dependent on the plant served by the
kiosk. Consultation shall be undertaken with Irish Water with regard to the appropriate
size of the kiosk.

108
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Kiosks shall be located sufficiently far from carriageway and kerb to prevent damage
from vehicles parking or mounting the kerb. Kiosks shall be located to facilitate safe
access for maintenance personnel. The kiosk shall not impede foot traffic and if possible
be located off the footpath.

The kiosk for booster pump stations shall be of a ‘non-walk-in’ design with open base
and one piece roof that slopes to the rear. Kiosks for flow meters, pressure reducing
valves, etc. shall be of a ‘non-walk-in’ design with open base and one piece roof. The
roof panel should be removable (bolts) to facilitate backboard replacement.

All kiosks shall be supported on a reinforced concrete plinth (C25/30 concrete to IS EN

206) extending 150mm in each direction beyond the external plan dimensions of the
kiosk. The plinth shall have a level finish, with 25mm chamfered edges, 150mm above
the finished ground level.

In situations where a two part kiosk construction is required (root & kiosk), the root of
the kiosk shall be installed separately from kiosk upper structure. The concrete plinth
depth shall be sufficiently deep to accommodate the ‘root’ depth of the kiosk. The
concrete footing shall be continuous: i.e. the root must be cast into the concrete. A
concrete surround cast around the root with a void within the root will not be acceptable.
The kiosk superstructure shall be bolted to the plinth through a bottom flange with
galvanised mild steel or stainless steel anchor bolts. The bottom flange shall be seated
on a neoprene gasket and sealed with mastic to prevent ingress of water.

The plinth shall incorporate appropriate ducting to connect into the power, telemetry and
control ducts to facilitate cabling between the kiosk and the various plant items
associated with the kiosk. Long radius bends shall be incorporated in the ducting, sharp
elbows shall not be used. The ducting shall be in accordance with BS 4660 and BS EN
1401.

The ducting diameter shall be appropriate for the cables required and the minimum duct
size shall be 100mm diameter. The ducts shall be red unless otherwise specified. All
ducts shall have a minimum cover of 600mm. The duct pipes shall be bedded,
haunched and surrounded in sand. Clause 804 backfill granular material, in accordance
with the Transport Infrastructure Ireland Specification for Road Works, shall be provided
above the sand surround. Marker tape shall be provided above the duct pipe runs. The
ducting should be constructed watertight and built into the base of the kiosk and
miscellaneous Chambers.

Kiosks for powered units shall require the following:

5.9.1 A thermostatically controlled anti-frost heater should be provided.

5.9.2 A light should be provided within the kiosk.
5.9.3 A power socket should be provided within the kiosk;

109
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

A pulse input should be provided from the electricity meter to the RTU to measure
energy usage.

Some kiosks will require ducting for telephone line and appropriate provision shall be
allowed. Powered kiosks will require ducting for power to a mini pillar associated with
the power utility service provider.

The walls, roof and doors of the kiosk should be constructed from either galvanised mild
steel, 3mm minimum thick welded plate, with polyester coated finish, or in stainless
steel in severe environments. Metallic kiosks shall be fully bonded and earthed. Non-
metallic kiosks shall not be used. Alternative forms of kiosk construction other than
galvanised mild steel, stainless steel, will generally be required in areas subject to
vandalism, e.g. enclosure of the kiosk(s) in a block-work or reinforced concrete
enclosure with vandal proof doors. An information panel shall also be provided to the
kiosk walls to include an identification number for the kiosk.

The walls of the kiosk shall have turned bottom flanges, with suitably factory formed
holes to accommodate the bolts securing the kiosk to the concrete plinth. The bottom
holes shall be reinforced with 5mm thick steel plates, welded to the steel wall of steel
fabricated kiosks. The holding down bolts shall be galvanised mild steel or stainless
steel expanding anchor bolts complete with large washers to prevent damage to the
flange complete with neoprene isolating washers if required to prevent reaction with
different materials. The bolts should be located at suitable intervals to prevent bottom
flange distortion.

The quality of the kiosk construction shall ensure that the following is achieved:

5.9.4 A thermal transmittance of 1.5W per m2K;

5.9.5 A fire resistance (retention of stability, integrity and insulation) equivalent
to Class 2 of BS 476, for a period exceeding 30 minutes;
5.9.6 An IP rating of IP55 or better, as appropriate;

The preferred exterior colour of the kiosk is holly green (to BS 4800, 14C 39). The
preferred interior colour is white.

The doors of the kiosk shall be single or double leaf steel with multiple locks to LPS
1175, SR3 or IS EN 1627. There shall be a minimum double lock with bolts that engage
into the sill and header as well as between the two leaves or leaf and frame. The
leading edge of the leaves shall have rebated edges or fitted with astragals. The door
leaves shall be fitted with vandal-resistant stainless steel hinges and self-latching stays
to restrain the door in the fully opened position (minimum opening angle of 90 degrees).
The doors shall not open towards the pumps. There shall be no permanent centre bar
on the opening so that full access to the interior is achieved. The doors shall have
rubber seals. Earth straps shall be provided to kiosk doors.

110
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The kiosk shall be fitted with suitably sized weather resistant and vermin resistant
ventilation grilles, complete with fly screens. These grilles should be fitted at low level at
one side of the kiosk and at high level at the opposite side of the kiosk so that cross
ventilation is achieved. Ventilation within the kiosk should be sufficient to restrict
temperature in the kiosk, under all weather conditions, to a maximum of 40 degree
Centigrade at any one time and to an average of 35 degree Centigrade over a 24 hour
period.

The rear wall of the kiosk shall be reinforced with steel sections to which a marine
plywood backboard, 18mm thick, is fixed to support the electrical assemblies associated
with the pumping plant, control equipment, and monitoring equipment associated with
the plant. The backboard shall have provision for a shock-risk label. An information
panel shall also be provided, indicating a contact phone number for maintenance
personnel.

5.10 Structure Enclosures

In some instances a permanent structure shall be provided to house plant and control
equipment for water supply infrastructure.

The structure for the housing such plant and control equipment shall be constructed of
blockwork, 215mm solid block, laid on flat, bedded in mortar, of minimum M12 strength
to IS EN 998-Part 2, and flush pointed. The block units shall comply with the
requirements of IS EN 771 - Part 3, with smooth render finish internally and externally
(or an alternative finish agreed with Irish Water subject to the requirements of Planning).
The blockwork shall be supported on a reinforced concrete support slab finished
150mm above general finished ground level. The structure shall have a 150mm
reinforced concrete roof slab, projecting 150mm outside of the wall, with drip beading,
complete with asphalt to provide a weatherproof roof.

The structure shall have galvanised steel security doors, twin leaf, opening outward and
fitted with furnishing as outlined above for the kiosk. Appropriate ventilation, openings,
etc. as described above for the kiosk shall be provided to achieve the same
environmental parameters as outlined. The structure shall also be equipped with
lighting, ventilation, welfare facilities, etc. to allow maintenance and monitoring to be
carried out.

5.11 Cable Ducts and Chambers

The kiosk plinth shall incorporate appropriate ducting to connect into the power,
telemetry and control ducts to facilitate cabling between the kiosk and the various plant
items associated with the kiosk. Long radius bends shall be incorporated in the ducting,
sharp elbows shall not be used. The ducting shall be in accordance with IS EN 61386-
24. Ducts used for ESB Networks cables shall be in accordance with ESB Networks
specification 16113 and IS 370 colour code.

111
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The ducting diameter and number shall be appropriate for the cables required and the
minimum duct size shall be 100mm diameter. The ducts shall be red unless otherwise
specified. All ducts shall have a minimum cover of 600mm. The duct pipes shall be
bedded, haunched and surrounded in sand. Clause 804 backfill granular material, in
accordance with the Transport Infrastructure Ireland Specification for Road Works, shall
be provided above the sand surround. Long Radius bends may be used for direction
changes up to 45 degrees, duct chambers shall be provided for changes in direction
above this. Marker tape shall be provided above the duct pipe runs and shall
incorporate reinforced tracing wire. The ducting should be constructed watertight and
built into the base of the kiosk and the walls of the miscellaneous Chambers. All cable
ducts shall be provided with draw cords/ropes to allow pull through of cables.

A drain shall be provided from the lowest positioned cable duct chamber to a soak away
to allow any water ingress to be drained away for the duct system. The ducts, or duct
banks, shall be located 150mm above the floor of the duct chamber.

Ducts shall be provided as follows:

 The ESB’s incoming power cable:- one duct shall be provided, sized in
accordance with the power supplier’s specification (e.g., colour, size, etc.) and
routed between the point of supply and the kiosk plinth in accordance with the
ESB Network’s requirements;
 The installation earth cable:- one duct shall be provided, 50 mm in diameter, and
routed between the point of supply and the kiosk plinth;
 The pump unit cables:- two ducts shall be provided, 100 mm in diameter, ,
 The minimum segregation/separation between Band 1 (ELV signal) and Band 2
(LV power) cables shall be 300 mm;
 Ducts shall terminate approximately 75 mm proud of the surface of the plinth.
 The depth of cover in soft ground shall be a minimum of 750 mm above the
crown of the duct.
 On completion, all ducts shall have a swab drawn through to clear them of
obstructions.
 Ducts shall be left with an excess 1 m length of draw cord in place, anchored at
each end.
 Ducts shall have sufficient space to enable the installation and removal of any
cable without the need to remove any other cable or component.
 Ducts shall incorporate adequate facilities to locate and support the cables.
 Conduit shall be provided for installation of the cables associated with the kiosk
lighting systems, heating systems and/or socket outlets.
 Cable ducts shall be sealed using a gas-tight sealing technique (not foam).

Where it is deemed necessary, duct Chambers shall be installed at bends and these
shall have a minimum 900mm by 900mm internal dimensions. The base and walls of
the cable duct chambers shall be constructed in C30/37 concrete, 20mm aggregate
size, with a minimum thickness of 225mm. Chambers of the above dimensions will not
require a roof. A concrete roof shall be provided if Chambers of larger dimensions are

112
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

required. The roof in this instance shall be complete of reinforced concrete formed with
C30/37 concrete, 20mm aggregate size concrete of minimum thickness of 225mm,
reinforced with high tensile reinforcement to BS 4449.

The opening shall be 900mm x 900mm to allow access to the cable Chamber. The
cover to the Chamber opening shall be sufficient for a 900mm by 900mm opening. It
shall be capable of withstanding imposed loads and shall comply with IS EN 124, D400
if located on roadways or footways. Lower load capacity rated covers may be used if the
Chamber is located off road in green areas, subject to Irish Water approval.

The cover frames shall be supported on the Chamber walls, if the Chamber dimension
is 900mm by 900mm. It shall be supported on the Chamber roof slab if such is provided.
In this instance the cover frame shall be supported on Class B engineering brick to IS
EN 771- Part 2, one course minimum and no more than a maximum of two courses in
height. The bricks shall be set and bedded in mortar, minimum M30 strength to IS EN
998-Part 2:2010. The Chamber cover frame shall be set in rapid hardening
cementitious, epoxy resin or polyester resin mortar. The mortar shall have a minimum
working time of 15 minutes and shall reach a minimum compressive strength of 30
N/mm2 and minimum tensile strength of 5 N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing. The covers
shall be set on the brick in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions to finish in
alignment with the pump station hard standing surface.

Duct Chamber covers, where located in grass areas, shall be surrounded by a concrete
plinth, 200mm all round and 100mm deep formed with C20/25 concrete, 20mm
aggregate size, bedded in Clause 804 material. The plinth shall be complete with bull-
nose finish to its perimeter and shall be provided with a mild steel reinforcement link.

5.12 General Electrical Requirements

Suitably rated electrical and plant control equipment shall be provided at the pumping
station to ensure efficient and continuous operation of all plant and equipment. The
plant telemetry equipment and installation shall be provided in accordance with Section
5.21 and Section 5.22 below. The electrical and control plant and equipment for the
pumping station shall be located in a kiosk or structure within the pumping station site.
The kiosk(s), including the electrical/control panels, shall be located at least 2m remote
from the pumping plant.

The incoming electricity supply to the pumping station shall be 400 V, 3-phase and
neutral, 4-wire, 50 Hz, with phase failure protection fitted to the incomer phases to
prevent motor burnout due to phase failure. All electrical work associated with pumping
station shall be carried out to IEE Regulations. The electrical installation work shall be
carried out by a Contractor who is included in an approved Register for Electrical
Contractors (e.g. RECI, IREC, etc.) and will carry out the works in accordance with this
Part 5, which is generally in line with Irish Water’s WIMES Electrical Specification.

113
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

The Developer/Developers Electrical Contractor is responsible to apply to ESB

Networks for a dedicated and metered power supply and this shall be provided to the
pump station serving only the pump station plant and associated equipment. The
Developers Electrical Contractor must comply with requirements of ESB Networks and
shall seek approval from ESB Networks for starter arrangement’s (Star/Delta).

On completion of the electrical installation, the developer shall provide Irish Water with
an electrical installation certificate, a signed declaration that the pumping station
operates in accordance with the schematic diagrams and the required control
philosophy.

A separate distribution board for building services shall be provided for an electrical
heater, light and a 220V, 16amp, electrical weatherproof socket. Lightening protection
shall also be provided.

5.13 Cables

Pump power cables shall be multicore, flexible cord, vulcanised rubber insulated with
tough rubber sheath and outer PCP sheath. All metal equipment at the pumping station
shall be bonded to earth, via earth rods located in inspection pits with removable
covers, remote from the pump location. The power cables shall comply with the
following requirements:

a) Single core cables shall have a minimum CSA of 0.75 mm 2

b) Analogue signal cabling shall comprise screened cables (individually
and/or collectively screened) and/or twisted pairs
c) Neutral conductors shall have the same CSA as their associated line
conductors
d) Wires shall enter and leave an enclosure via a terminal rail and shall not
be joined between terminals. Permanently-fixed insulating bushes shall be
provided where wiring passes through internal plates or partitions
e) Cables shall run to enclosure doors in spirally-wrapped protection or
similar.
f) Different categories of cabling and wiring shall be installed so as to
prevent interference with each other.

The following requirements shall also apply as a minimum:

a) Cabling and wiring associated with intrinsically-safe circuits (IS) shall be

segregated from other circuits in accordance with BS EN 60079-14. IS
circuit trunking shall be appropriately labelled with no other circuits
enclosed within it; and
b) If lightning and/or surge protection measures have been used to protect
individual circuits, these circuits shall be segregated from the wiring of
other unprotected circuits.
c) The colours of cables shall comply with the Table below.

114
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Colour Code for Wiring

Function Colour
Protective conductor Green and Yellow
Current transformer (CT) circuits White
Power Circuits
Phase of a single phase circuit Brown(4)
Phase 1 of a three-phase AC circuit Brown(3)
Phase 2 of a three-phase AC circuit Black(3)
Phase 3 of a three-phase AC circuit Grey(3)
Neutral of a single- or three-phase circuit Blue
Control Circuits
110 V ac Red
24 V ac Yellow
24 V dc Yellow
Negative Voltage Blue
Inter-compartment, unsheathed As per voltage
Inter-compartment, sheathed Grey sheath, White cores
Signal Circuits
Volt free, known voltage As Per voltage
Volt free, unknown voltage Red
Telemetry digital signals (single cores) Pink(1)
Telemetry digital signals (multicore RTU-MCC) White
Analogue 4-20 mA/1-5 V DC As per voltage(2)
Single cores (multi drop applications only)
Analogue 4-20 mA/1-5 V DC +ve – White(5)
Screened (all standard applications -ve – Blue(5)
including telemetry)
Intrinsically-safe Light Blue
Colour Code notes to Table:
(1) Signal and voltage/current and source/sink cabling
(2) For example, 24 V applications will have Yellow(+) and Blue(-)
(3) Brown may be used for all three phases, identified L1, L2 and L3 at each end of
the conductor and at intervals along its length
(4) If there is more than one type of single phase wiring present within the electrical
assembly, the wiring shall be phase coloured
(5) For example, for cables to PAS 5308-2/BS EN 50288-7, a single pair is coloured
White/Blue

115
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

5.14 Cable Installation

5.14.1 General

Pump cables shall have sufficient slack and shall be tidily wound and secured to a
stainless steel hook or bracket within the kiosk where they can be easily accessed and
will not interfere with the pump operation, maintenance or replacement.

All cables shall be installed using a proprietary cable support system and installed in
accordance with the manufacturers recommendations. Cable tray shall be fabricated
from heavy duty PVC, GRP, heavy duty hot dipped galvanised steel or from stainless
steel. Choice shall be made with regard to weight and number of cables.

Joints shall not be permitted in individual power and control cables, except at junction
boxes.

5.14.2 Glanding

Cable glands shall be suitable for the type of cable being installed and its intended
operating environment. Cable gland selection shall, as a minimum, consider the
following performance requirements:

a) mechanical properties,
b) electrical properties; and
c) resistance to external influences.

The minimum degree of ingress protection shall be IP66

Where a cable gland is through a painted or otherwise coated metallic surface,

provision shall be made to ensure earth continuity between the gland and the enclosure.

5.14.3 Termination

Wiring shall be terminated using crimped connectors or lugs, both of which shall be
suitable for the conductor and the type of termination, as recommended by the
manufacturer. For screened signal cables, screens shall be connected to earth using a
proprietary 360° connection.

5.14.4 Junction Boxes

Junction boxes shall be designed for bottom cable entry. Junction boxes shall be sized
so that there is adequate space between the point of cable entry and the terminals,
such that cable cores may be spread, loomed, identified, terminated and subsequently
removed for testing, without experiencing excessive bending or stress. Junction boxes
shall be provided with an adequate means of earthing. Terminals shall be clipped to

116
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

rails fixed to the back of the junction box or supported off brackets integral with the
junction box. When a junction box is open, the degree of ingress protection to any live
part, or to any part that could be energised at above low voltage during any test
procedure, shall be a minimum of IP2X.

5.14.5 Identification of Wiring

All cabling and wiring shall be identified at both ends by interlocking ferrules or
approved Irish Water method. All spare cores shall be identified. The colour code for
wiring shall be in accordance with WIMES. The following requirements shall apply:

 No more than two conductors shall be connected to one side of a terminal.

 Spare cores shall be terminated at both ends.
 Terminals shall be safely and easily accessible after all wiring has been installed
and terminated.
 Terminals shall be grouped together and segregated according to operating
voltage and function by terminal rail mounted barriers.
 Terminals used for the connection of intrinsically-safe circuits shall be coloured
blue and be physically separated from other terminal groups by a minimum
distance of 50 mm. These terminals shall have a clear shrouded cover and be
fitted with an appropriate warning label.
 Unless otherwise specified by the instrument manufacturer, all instrument cable
screens shall be tied back and insulated from earth at the instrument end of the
cable, and at the control panel end of the instrument cable the screens shall be
connected to the instrument earth bar, i.e., one common star point.
 After installation of cables, all ducts shall be sealed with an approved proprietary
sealant. Where the seal is providing a barrier between hazardous and non-
hazardous areas, a transit plate arrangement or other approved proprietary
sealing arrangement shall be installed, tested and certified as DSEAR compliant.

5.15 Control Panels General Requirements

The pump control panel for pump plant exceeding 7.5 KW shall be Form 4 Type
manufactured and fabricated to IEE Regulations. Otherwise, the pump panel shall be
Form 2 or better.

The control panel shall have provision for connection of an external standby generator.
The power supplier shall be notified of this installation to allow for an isolation or ‘kill’
switch.

When the control panel is isolated and open, the degree of ingress protection (IP rating)
of any remaining live part, or of any part which could be energised at above extra-low
voltage during any test procedure, shall be a minimum of IP2X.

117
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Suitably-rated protection devices shall be provided at all points necessary for the
protection and isolation of power and control circuits, and to minimise disruption to the
overall system on the failure of a component part of the system

Compartments that contain both extra-low and low-voltage systems shall be arranged
so that systems of differing voltages are physically segregated from each other

When the control panel is isolated and open, the degree of ingress protection (IP rating)
of any remaining live part, or of any part which could be energised at above extra-low
voltage during any test procedure, shall be a minimum of IP2X.

The electrical assembly shall be designed for bottom entry of the pump cables. LED
Indicator lamps, Filament lamps shall not be used

All control panels shall incorporate, at a minimum, the following:

 A spring loaded hand/off/auto selector for each pump, subject to manufacturers

approval;
 A “Pump Unit Start” push button;
 A “Pump Unit Stop” push button;
 Ammeter and hours run meter for each pump;
 Run light and trip lights for each pump (one for temperature and one for seal
failure);
 Reset button for each pump;
 Duty/Standby or Duty/Assist/Standby selector for each set of pumps;
 Lockable mains incomer isolator;
 Lockable door interlock isolators for all starter sections;
 Flow Indication – both instantaneous and totalised either on a separate wall
mounted unit within the kiosk;
 Volt free contacts, as outlined in Section 5.21, for future retrofitting of a telemetry
system.

The IP rating of the electrical assembly shall be IP55. This IP rating shall apply to the
complete assembly including all components mounted on the assembly.

5.16 Form 4 Control Panel Compartments – Additional Requirements

Each compartment of a Form 4 control panel shall include an earth stud, connected to
the earth bar or main earth stud by a separate protective conductor. Protective
conductors shall be sized to withstand the fault level, subject to a minimum CSA of 6
mm2.

Each compartment shall have protective conductors, with a minimum CSA of 2.5 mm 2,
or braided straps of the appropriate CSA for earthing and EMC requirements, taken
from the compartment earth stud to the compartment door, the component mounting

118
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

plates and earth terminals, the equipment mounting rail earth terminals; and the metal
cases of instruments.

For pumps with motor of 11kw the control panel shall also incorporate, at a minimum,
the following:

• Power meter shall be installed on the incoming supply with volts, power
factor, Kw, Kwh, power outage for Kwh, etc. displays and shall provide pulse
and modulus outputs
• Power Factor Correction
• Surge and Lightening protection

In addition to the requirements outlined above in Section 5.15, the Form 4 control panel
shall incorporate the following requirements.

5.16.1 Incomer Section

The incomer compartment shall contain the following:

 Suitable 4-pole (3-phase and switched neutral) fuse switches with suitably-rated
HRC fuses, mechanically interlocked and assembled to form a switch for the
mains and standby generator supplies. The switch shall be labelled “Mains/Off”
and the door shall be interlocked and padlockable in the “Off” position;
 A phase failure, phase reversal and low voltage protection relay to provide a
“Mains Failure” telemetry signal. The phase failure detection relay shall be
connected downstream of the "Mains/Off" switch;
 A set of fuses and a neutral link for the phase failure relay and voltmeter
 A control circuit transformer (CCT) for the common control compartment (CCC),
 A power monitoring facilities if the rating of each pump unit is above 10 kW
 A fuse-fed, single phase and neutral distribution board, complying with BS EN
61439-3, with integral isolator and hinged cover. All MCBs, RCDs and RCBOs
incorporated within the distribution board shall comply with BS EN 60898, BS EN
61008 and BS EN 61009, respectively, and be padlockable in the “Off” position.

5.16.2 Control Circuit Supply

The control circuit supply voltage shall be 110v AC or 24v DC. The common control and
motor starter functional units shall each be provided with a dedicated control circuit
transformer. The common control and motor starters shall each be provided with a
means of switching, isolation and short-circuit protection for the incoming control circuit
supplies. Control circuit supplies shall be energised when the associated fuse switch is
in the “On” position. The primary and secondary windings of all CCTs shall be protected
by fuses or double pole MCBs. Removable neutral links shall be provided if protection is
afforded by fuses.

119
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

5.16.3 Motor Starter Compartments

The motor starter compartment shall contain the following:

 A triple-pole fuse switch with three suitably-rated HRC fuses and auxiliary
switching of all live and neutral control circuits (complete with test position);
 A 3-phase thermal overload relay with single phasing protection

All motor protection systems shall be of the electrically-latched and manually-reset type.
The operating handle for the fuse switch shall be door-interlocked and padlockable in
the “Off” position. Each motor start compartment shall include the following:

a) a “Hand/Off/Auto” selector switch (Hand to be spring loaded);

b) “Common Fault Reset push button;
c) “Pump Unit Start” push button;
d) “Pump Unit Stop” push button;
e) “Pump Unit tripped lamp;
f) “Pump Unit Running” lamp;
g) “Auto-available” lamp;
h) individual fault lamps;
i) Amp meter per pump
j) Hour Run clock per pump

5.17 Earthing and Bonding

The assembly earthing system shall incorporate an earth bar or main earth stud. The
earth bar or stud shall be provided with facilities for connecting to the main earth
terminal provided by the electrical power supplier.

Each metal gland plate shall be connected directly to the earth bar or stud by a separate
protective conductor. Protective conductors shall be sized to withstand the fault level,
subject to a minimum cross-sectional area (CSA) of 6 mm2.

Separate earth bars or studs shall be provided for connecting equipment requiring a
clean earth or an intrinsically-safe earth directly to the Mains Earth Terminal. If required,
such earth bars or studs shall be located adjacent to the equipment requiring a clean
earth or an intrinsically-safe earth, as appropriate.

5.17.1 Earth Electrode

The earthing system shall be designed and installed to include the earthing and bonding
of all exposed metalwork. A main earth bar and earth rod or mat system shall be
provided. The earth rod resistance shall be tested when disconnected from the rest of
the earthing system. A stud terminal shall also be provided in the kiosk for connection of
the mobile generator star point to the earth electrode. The earth electrode shall provide
a maximum effective earth resistance of 10 Ohms or less. The earth rod resistance shall
be tested when disconnected from the rest of the earthing system. The earth electrode

120
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

shall be connected to the power supplier’s main earth terminal (MET) via a removable
test link.

5.17.2 Bonding

All extraneous conductive parts of the pumping station shall be connected to the main
earthing terminal. The bonding conductor shall be connected to the various connection
points in the kiosk, valve chamber and wet well. The bonding conductor shall be
continuous and not cut at each connection. Metallic cable and wiring support systems
shall be bonded to all non-electrical services.

5.18 Control Philosophy

The Control Philosophy for the pump station is to be submitted to Irish Water as part of
the design submission. It shall include, at a minimum, cut in and cut out pressures, run
time, operation in low demand times, operation in no/low flow etc. Booster pumps shall
be sized to ensure adequate pressure (a minimum of 1.5 bar) at the property boundary
of all customers taking into account seasonal, weekly and day-time peaks. The pumping
station shall be designed to operate in the following modes:

a) Automatic mode – in this mode of operation the control system shall operate the
pumping station automatically, without need for manual intervention; and
b) Manual mode – in this mode of operation, the control system is overridden and
the operator can operate the pump units manually via the pushbutton switches
mounted on the door of the Assembly (Form 1B) or motor starter compartments
(Form 4).

The pumping station control system shall allow for auto reset in the event of a power
failure. The pump units shall be operated in response to the pressure in the supply
system. For all types of pumping station, a pressure control system shall be provided.

5.19 Testing

The pump units shall be tested on site to ensure they are capable of delivering the
design flow rate under all possible operating conditions, without cavitation or excessive
noise, vibration, temperature or leakage. This shall be recorded in a commissioning plan
which shall also note:

 The make, model and serial number of the pump.

 Flowrate
 Amps
 Date of test.

A visual inspection of the pumping station shall be made to ensure it complies with this
Specification and that it is constructed in accordance with the agreed design, and
consistent with the agreed designs, specifications and site layout, including features

121
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

relating to access, egress and safety assessment. Functional checks shall be made of
all installed instrumentation, including:

 Sat test of panel (confirming the panel can undertake the items as per control
philosophy)
 Commissioning of flowmeter
 Commissioning of pressure transduces
 Testing of building services
 Commissioning of alarm system
 Testing of the earthing (10 Ohms or less) and bonding
 Review of the hardcopy of the Operation & Maintenance Manual (in one PVC
hardback A4 folder).

These checks shall be made in the presence of Irish Water.

5.20 Abnormal Operation

5.20.1 Power Failure

On the restoration of the power supply after a mains/phase failure, the control system
shall automatically resume normal operation including where appropriate pump unit
restart.

5.20.2 Pump Failure

The control system shall incorporate the following hard-wired pump unit protection
systems:
 motor overload protection;
 motor over-temperature protection;
 pump unit mechanical seal failure protection

The pump seal leak sensor is for alarm monitoring only and shall only shut down the
pump if it is installed in a hazardous area.

If the hard-wired protection system is activated, the control system shall allow the
operator a maximum of three remote resets after which the drive shall be locked out.

5.21 Telemetry

The control panel shall provide for Volt Free Contacts for collection of relevant signals
for the booster pump station. Should Irish Water wish to install a telemetry outstation to
transfer data from the pumping station to an Irish Water control centre in future, the
information will be freely available. A clear space of 450mm by 600mm is to be left on
the kiosk backboard.

The following abbreviations are used in the table:

122
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

 DI – Digital Input
 AI – Analogue Input
 PI – Pulsed Input
 DO – Digital Output
 AO – Analogue Output

Primary Design
Signal Name DI AI PI DO AO Comments
Pump Available / x
Unavailable (per pump)

Pump Running / Stopped x

(per pump)
Pump Healthy / Tripped (per x
pump)
Pump Inverter Speed (per x Where fitted
pump)
Pressure Instrument Healthy / x
Fault (per instrument)
Station Downstream Pressure x For pumping into distribution
Station Upstream Pressure x For pumping from distribution

Flow Instrument Healthy / Fault x

(per instrument)
Station Delivery Flow x

Pump Power (kW) x Pump Performance

5.22 Dial Out Alarm

The pump station shall be fitted with GSM dial out alarm, complete with battery backup.
It shall be possible to text up to 5 numbers on the dial out alarm. The dial out alarm shall
escalate the alarm message automatically if the first recipient does not respond to the
alarm by acknowledging the fault. If the second person does not acknowledge the alarm
message, forwarding the message to further subscribers shall occur. The escalation can
be traversed any number of times by looping back to the beginning of the escalation
chain until the message is acknowledged. It shall be possible to configure dial out
numbers. The dial out alarm shall be configured to send the following alarms:

 Loss of Site Mains Supply Alarm

 Pump 1 Fault
 Pump 2 Fault
 All Pumps Failed
 Upstream Pressure Low

123
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

 Downstream Pressure High

 Upstream pressure Instrument Fault
 Downstream pressure Instrument Fault
 Flow rate (intervals to be agreed with Local Water Services staff)

5.23 Operation & Maintenance Manual

The Operation & Maintenance Manual, to be included in the Final Documents (as
outlined in Section 1.8.9) is to include at a minimum:
 General description of the pump station (i.e. number of houses, size & length of
rising main, discharge point etc.)
 General safety considerations of working in and near pumping stations
 As-build drawings of pump station including showing the route of the water
distribtion network and electrical ducts
 Commissioning sheets for the pumps and equipment
 Blank sheets for ongoing Operation & Maintenance duties.
 Panel drawings
 Pump curve
 Pump O&M manual (including wiring diagram)
 Exploded diagram of spare parts for the pump installed
 Details of the alarm system including instruction on how to change phone
number etc.

124
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Appendix A

Specifications for Boundary Box and Fittings

125
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Boundary Box Standards

Boundary Boxes must have WRAS approval and be compliant with WIS 4-37-01:
Specification for Boundary Boxes for the metering and control of domestic and small
industrial water services.

Loading classification to BS 5834-2:2011, Section 4: Surface boxes, guards and

underground Chambers for the purposes of utilities.

Specification for Water Meters

IS EN ISO 4064:2014 Water Meters for Cold and Hot Water, Part 1 – Part 5.

Boundary Box Specification

Flow Control Integral stop-cock valve to be located within the Boundary Box
Valve upstream of the meter; valve operation to be designed to ensure no
over-tightening. Valve to be ¼ turn ball valve and status of the
valve (i.e. open/closed) to be clear.
Non-Return Integral non-return valve to be provided downstream of the meter
Valve
Height Telescopic/sliding head with range of 500 – 800mm
Design Life 50 Years
Box Sealing Sealed (water tight) box with capability for conversion to free-
draining; sliding/telescopic section connections of tube to be sealed
Meter housing To accept end fitting G1.5” threaded concentric meters (as per EN
14154-1:2005 and ISO 4064-1:2014)
Sufficient Sufficient space to be available within Boundary Box to allow for
space visual reading, access to valve operation, access to install and
remove meter (including AMR equipment)
Inlet and outlet 25mm Push fit PE pipe connectors
Operating All components to be rated for a water pressure of 16Bar.
pressure
Pressure Head Max allowable hydraulic head loss across box assembly of 2.0m,
Loss test as per WIS 4-37-01
Frost plug Removable frost plug to be provided with all boxes

126
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Specification – Cover and Frame

Loading (if applicable to tendered item) Cover and Frame shall be suitable
for a Class C loading in accordance with BS 5834-2:2011
Loading (if applicable to tendered item) Cover and Frame shall be suitable
for a Class B loading in accordance with BS 5834-2:2011
Horizontal tilt Lid (and flange if applicable) to allow for minimum 5degree tilt
adjustment adjustment
Keyways All key ways to be closed
Metal All lids to be capable of being located using a metal detector
Detection
Markings Lid to be marked appropriately with the words “UISCE” over the
word “WATER” (ref. WIS 4-37-01)
Even surface Lid and surrounding frame to be flush
Horizontal tilt Lid (and flange if applicable) to allow for minimum 5 degree tilt
adjustment Lid adjustment
seal

Fittings standards
Element Standard (or Description
equivalent
standard, where
applicable)
Components in WRAS Approval Water Regulations Advisory Scheme
contact with water (note: must be valid approval)
for consumption
Plastic piping BS EN 12201- Plastics piping systems for water supply,
systems for water 1:2011 and for drainage and sewerage under
supply under pressure. Polyethylene (PE). General
pressure
Plastic piping BS EN 12201- Plastics piping systems for water supply,
systems for water 3:2011 and for drainage and sewerage under
supply under pressure. Polyethylene (PE). Fittings
pressure
Pressure Test ISO 1167-1:2006 Thermoplastics pipes, fittings and
assemblies for the conveyance of fluids
-- Determination of the resistance to
internal pressure -- Part 1: General
method
Pull-out Test ISO 3501:1976 Assembled joints between fittings and
polyethylene (PE) pressure pipes -- Test
of resistance to pull out

Hydraulic and ISO 4427-3:2007 Plastics piping systems -- Polyethylene

Mechanical (PE) pipes and fittings for water supply -
characteristics of - Part 3: Fittings
fittings

127
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Leakproofness ISO 3459:1976 Polyethylene (PE) pressure pipes --

under internal Joints assembled with mechanical
pressure fittings -- Internal under-pressure test
(mechanical joints) method and requirement
Leakproofness ISO 3503:1976 Assembled joints between fittings and
under internal polyethylene (PE) pressure pipes -- Test
pressure when of leakproofness under internal pressure
subject to bending when subjected to bending
Leakproofness ISO 3458:1976 Assembled joints between fittings and
under internal polyethylene (PE) pressure pipes -- Test
pressure (between of leakproofness under internal pressure
fittings and PE
pressure pipe)
Tapered Pipe ISO 7/1:1994 Pipe threads where pressure-tight joints
Threads (if being are made on the threads -- Part 1:
supplied) Dimensions, tolerances and designation
Parallel Pipe ISO 228/1:2003 Pipe threads where pressure-tight joints
Threads (if being are not made on the threads.
supplied) Dimensions, tolerances and designation

Where new pipe is required to complete an installation it is to be 25mm dia. MDPE

(Colour Blue)

128
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Appendix B

Standards referenced in the Water Code of Practice

129
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Standard Type:

IS Irish Standard
BS British Standard
IS EN European Standard adopted as an Irish Standard
BS EN European Standard adopted as a British Standard
WIS UK Water Industry Specification
IGN Information and Guidance Notes
SR Irish National Guidance Standard Recommendation

Standard Standard Title

Type Number
BS 750 Specification for Underground Fire Hydrants and Surface Box
Frames and Covers (See also BS EN 1074 Part 6).
IS EN 14339 Underground Fire Hydrants
IS EN 124 Gully Tops, Manhole Tops for Vehicular and Pedestrian Areas
– Design Requirements, Type, Testing, Marking, Quality
Levels (See also BS EN 124)
IS 261 Water Services Road Furniture – Requirements for Cast Iron
Cover and Frames
IS EN 752 Drain and Sewer Systems Outside Buildings
(See also BS EN 752 2008 – Drain and Sewer Systems
Outside Buildings)
IS EN 805 Water Supply - Requirements for Systems and Components
Outside Buildings
IS EN 206 Concrete Specification, Performance, Production and
Conformity
(See also BS EN 206:2013)
BS PAS 27 Unplasticized Poly Vinyl-Chloride Alloy (PVC-A) Pipes and
Bends for Water Under Pressure
IS EN 545 Ductile Iron Pipes, Fittings, Accessories and their Joints for
Water Pipelines. (See also BS EN 545)
BS 5163 Valves for Waterworks Purposes, Part 1: Predominantly Key
Operated Cast Iron Gate Valves Code of Practice
IS EN 1074 Valves for Water Supply – Fitness for Purpose and
Appropriate Specification Tests
Part 1 – General Requirements
Part 2 – Isolating Valves
Part 3 – Check Valves
Part 4 Air Valves
Part 5 Control Valves
Part 6 - Hydrants
BS EN 593 Industrial Valves – Metallic Butterfly Valves.
BS EN 1561 Grey Cast Iron
BS EN 1092 Flanges and Their Joints – Circular Flanges for Pipes, Valves,
Fittings and Accessories – PN Designations

130
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Part 1:- Steel Flanges

Part 2:- Ductile Iron Flanges
BS 4449 Steel for Reinforcement of Concrete – Bar, Coil and De-coiled
Product - Specification
BS 3251 Indicator Plates for Hydrants and Emergency Water Supplies
IS 162 Concrete Marker Posts applicable to precast concrete posts
for use in marking the locations of hydrants, air valves and
sluice valves
BS 381C Specification for Colour for Identification, Colour and Special
Purposes
BS 6076 Specification for Polymetric Film for Use as a Protective
Sleeve for Buried Iron Pipes and Fittings
WIS 4-08-02 Specification for Pipe Bedding and Side-fill Materials for
Buried Pipelines (IGN 4-08-01 Information and Guidance
Note on Bedding and Side-fill Materials for Buried Pipelines.
IS EN 12620 Aggregate for Concrete (See also SR16 – Guidance for Use
of IS EN 12620)
SR 16 Guidance for the Use of IS EN 12620:2002
WIS 4-22-02 Specification for Ferrules (Tappings and Tees) and Ferrule
Straps for Underground Use
BS 5433 Specification for Underground Stop Valves for Water
Services.
BS 5834 Surface Boxes, Guards and Underground Chambers for the
Purposes of Utilities – Part 2 - Specification for Surface
Boxes.

BS 5834 Surface Boxes, Guards and Underground Chambers for the

Purposes of Utilities – Part 4 - Specification for Utility
Chambers
IS EN 12201 Plastic Piping Systems for Water Supply Systems and
Drainage and Sewerage Under Pressure.
Part 1:- General,
Part 2:- Pipes,
Part 3:- Fittings,
Part 4:- Valves for Water Supply systems,
Part 5: Fitness for Purpose of the System.
IS EN 771 Specification for Masonry Units
Part 2:- Calcium Silicate masonry Units
Part 3:- Aggregate Concrete masonry Units (Dense and
Lightweight Aggregate)
IS EN 1717 Protection Against Pollution of Potable Water in Water
Installations and General Requirements of Devices to Prevent
Pollution and Backflow
BS EN 12613 Plastic Warning Devices for Underground Cables and
Pipelines with Visual Characteristics
WIS 4-32-08 Specification for Fusion Jointing of Polyethylene Pressure

131
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Pipeline Systems Using PE80 and PE100 Materials

IGN 4-32-18 The Choice of pressure rating for Polyethylene Pipe Systems
for Water Supply and Sewerage Duties
WIS 4-32-19 Polyethylene Pressure Pipe Systems with an Aluminium
Barrier Layer for Potable Water Supply in Contaminated Land
– Size 25 to 630mm
IGN 4-01-03 Pressure Testing of Pressure Pipes and Fittings for use by
Public Water Supplies.
IS EN 4064 Water Meters for Cold and Hot Water
ISO Part 1: Metrological and Technical requirements
Part 2: Test Methods
Part 3: Test Report Format
Part 4: Non-Metrological Requirements not covered by ISO
4064-1
Part 5: Installation Requirements
WIS 4-37-01 Specification for Boundary Boxes for Metering and Control of
Domestic and Small Industrial Water Services
IS EN 1167 Thermoplastic Pipes and fittings for Conveyance for Fluids –
ISO Determination of Resistance to Internal Pressure
Part 1: General Methods
Part 2: Preparation of Pipe Test Pieces
Part 3: Preparation of Components
Part 4 Preparation of Assemblies
ISO 3501 Assembled Joints Between Fittings and Polyethylene (PE)
Pressure Pipes – Test Resistance Under Constant
Longitudinal Force
ISO 4427 Plastic Piping Systems – Polyethylene (PE) Pipes and Fittings
for Water Supply
Part 1: General
Part 2: Pipes
Part 3: Fittings
Part 5: Fitness for Purpose of the System
ISO 3459 Polyethylene (PE) Pressure Pipes – Joint Assembled with
Mechanical Fittings – Internal Under Pressure Test Method
and Requirement
ISO 3458 Assembled Joints Between Fittings and Polyethylene (PE)
Pressure Pipes – Test of Leak Proofness Under Internal
Pressure
ISO 7/1 Pipe Threads Where Pressure-Tight Joints Are Made on
Threads – Part 1: Dimensions, Tolerances and Designations
BS EN 228/1 Pipe Threads Where Pressure-Tight Joints Are Not Made on
ISO Threads – Part 1: Dimensions, Tolerances and Designations
IS EN 622 Fibreboard Specification
Part 1 – General Requirements
Part 2 – Requirements for Hardboards
Part 3 – Requirements for Medium Boards

132
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Part 4 – Requirements for Soft Boards

Part 5 – Requirements for Dry Process Boards (MDF)

BS EN 1561 Founding – Grey Cast Irons

IS EN 1917 Concrete Manholes and Inspection Chambers, Unreinforced,
Steel Fibre and Reinforced
(See also BS EN 1917)
IS EN 13242 Aggregates for Unbound and Hydraulically Bound Material for
Use in Civil Engineering Works and Road Construction
BS 4660 Thermoplastics Ancillary Fittings of Nominal Size 110 to 160
for Below Ground Gravity Drainage and Sewerage
BS EN 1401 Plastics Piping systems for Non-Pressure Underground
Drainage and Sewerage – Unplasticized Poly (Vinyl –
Chloride) (PVC-U) – Part 1 – Specification for Pipes, Fittings
and the System
BS 476 Fire Tests for Building Materials and Structures
BS 4800 Schedule of Paint Colours for Building Purposes
WIS 4-52-01 Specification for Anti-corrosion (Barrier) Coatings
WIS 4-52-03 Specification for Anti-corrosion Coatings on Threaded
Fasteners
IS EN 14525 Flanged Adaptors
IS EN 14901 Ductile Iron Pipes, Fittings and Accessories – Epoxy coating
(heavy duty) of ductile iron fittings and accessories –
requirements and test methods
IS EN 1563 Founding. Spheroidal Graphite Cast Iron
EN 681-1 Elestomeric Seals. Material Requirements for Pipe Joint Seals
Used in Water and Drainage Applications
BS 4190 ISO Metric Black Hexagon Bolts, Screws and Nuts.
Specification.
BS 4320 Specification for Metal Washers for General Engineering
Purposes. Metric Series
BS 7874 Method of Test for Microbiological Deterioration of
Elastomeric Seals for Joints in Pipework and Pipelines.
BS 5837 Trees in Relation to Design, Demolition and Construction -
Recommendations
ISO 16422 Pipes and Joints made of Oriented Unplasticised Polyviinal
Chloride (PVCO) for the conveyancing of water under
pressure
IS 328 Gas transmission pipelines and pipeline installations - .
Edition 4
IS 329 As distribution mains.
IS 370 Colour code for buried plastics piping.
BS 5834 Surface boxes, guards and underground chambers for the
purposes of utilities. Specification for guards and plinths.
BS 6076 Specification for polymeric film for use as a protective

133
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

sleeving for buried iron pipes and fittings (for site and factory
application).
BS 8558 Guide to the design, installation, testing and maintenance of
services supplying water for domestic use within buildings
and their curtilages. Complementary guidance to BS EN 806.
BS 6920 Suitability of non-metallic materials and products for use in
contact with water intended for human consumption with
regard to their effect on the quality of the water. Methods of
test. Samples for testing.
BS 8545 Trees: from nursery to independence in the landscape.
Recommendations.
IS EN 806 Specifications for Installations Inside Buildings Conveying
Water for Human Consumption.
IS EN 206 Concrete - specification, performance, production and
conformity
IS EN 12842 Ductile iron fittings for PVC-U or PE piping systems -
Requirements and test methods.
IS EN 1092 Flanges and their joints. Circular flanges for pipes, valves,
fittings and accessories, PN designated. Steel flanges.
IS EN 998-2 Specification for mortar for masonry - Masonry mortar
IS EN 13101 Steps for underground man entry chambers. Requirements,
marking, testing and evaluation of conformity.
EN 420 Precast Concrete Manholes.
IS EN 1627 Pedestrian door sets, windows, curtain walling, grilles and
shutters - Burglar resistance - Requirements and
classification.
IS EN 61386-24 Conduit systems for cable management. Particular
requirements. Conduit systems buried underground
(incorporating corrigendum November 2010).
WIS 4-21-02 Specification for mechanical couplings and repair clamps for
iron pipes for the conveyance of cold potable water
(underground use) for the size range 40 to 1600mm/1.5 to 48”
inclusive.
WIS 4-37-01 Specification for boundary boxes for the metering and control
of domestic and small industrial water services.
BS ISO 21307:2017 Plastics pipes and fittings. Butt fusion jointing procedures for
polyethylene (PE) pipes and fittings used in the construction
of gas and water distribution systems.
BS ISO 12176 Plastics pipes and fittings. Equipment for fusion jointing
polyethylene systems. Butt fusion.
IGN 4-32-18 The choice of pressure ratings for polyethylene pipe systems
for water supply and sewerage duties.
IGN 4-01-03 Guide to pressure testing of pressure pipes and fittings for
use by public water suppliers.
IGN 4-08-01 Bedding and side fill materials for buried pipelines.

134
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

ISO 9001 Quality Management Systems - Requirements.

ISO 21307:2013 Plastics pipes and fittings — Butt fusion jointing procedures
for polyethylene (PE) pipes and fittings used in the
construction of gas and water distribution systems.
ISO 12176 Plastics pipes and fittings — Equipment for fusion jointing
polyethylene systems — Part 1: Butt fusion.
ISO 13953 Polyethylene (PE) pipes and fittings — Determination of the
tensile strength and failure mode of test pieces from a butt-
fused joint.
ISO 13954 Plastics pipes and fittings — Peel de-cohesion test for
polyethylene (PE) electrofusion assemblies of nominal
outside diameter greater than or equal to 90 mm.
ISO 13955 Plastics pipes and fittings — Crushing de-cohesion test for
polyethylene (PE) electrofusion assemblies.
ISO 13956 Plastics pipes and fittings — De-cohesion test of polyethylene
(PE) saddle fusion joints — Evaluation of ductility of fusion
joint interface by tear test.
ISO 17025 General requirements for the competence of testing and
calibration laboratories.
ISO 9960 Draughting instruments with or without graduation — Part 1:
Draughting scale rules.
ISO 4064- Water meters for cold potable water and hot water — Part 1:
1:2014 Metrological and technical requirements.
IS EN 898-1 Mechanical properties of fasteners made of carbon steel and
alloy steel. Bolts, screws and studs with specified property
classes. Coarse thread and fine pitch thread.
IS EN 898-2 Mechanical properties of fasteners made of carbon steel and
alloy steel. Nuts with specified property classes. Coarse
thread and fine pitch thread.
IS EN 3506-1 Mechanical properties of corrosion-resistant stainless steel
fasteners. Bolts, screws and studs.
IS EN 3506-2 Mechanical properties of corrosion-resistant stainless steel
fasteners. Nuts.
EN 14154- Water meters. part 1 General requirements
1:2005
IS EN 16941-1 On Site Non Potable Water Systems – Part 1, Syatems for the
Use of Rainwater

135
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Appendix C

Amendments Associated with change from

Revision 1 (December 2017) to Revision 2 (July 2020)

136
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Amendment Description of Change for Revision 2

Location
General The Code of Practice has been amended in a significant number
Amendments of areas. These amendments are listed below in relation to the
location of the amendment (Section, Sub-Section, etc.). There are
a number of amendments arising from high level changes and
these are referred to a “General Amendments” as opposed to
“particular amendments”.

A general amendment is applied to align the terminology within the

Code of Practice with the terminology used in the Self-lay
Connection Agreement where applicable. Examples of this are
listed below and examples are as follows:
 “development(s)” is changed to “Development(s)” as this is
a defined term;
 “Customer” has been changed to “Developer”;
 A new term of “Water and Wastewater Services
Infrastructure” has been included;
 A new term of “Self-Lay Works” has been included;
 Etc.

As a consequence, minor amendments are included in many

Sections to reflect new defined terms. It is not deemed necessary
to list all of the Sections and Sub-Section affected by the
terminology changes as these changes are non material in most
instances.

Other general amendments relate to the following:

- The use of IS 420 and IS EN 1917 as standards for pre-cast

concrete manhole units where these are used in the Works.,
- An amended specification for the bedding of chamber cover
frames seated with rapid hardening cementitious, epoxy or
polyester resin mortar, with a minimum working time of 15
minutes, a minimum compressive strength of 30 N/mm 2 and 5
N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing.
- An amendment specifying the bedding and setting mortar for
Class B engineering brick under chamber covers/frames
should be of minimum M30 strength mortar to IS EN 998 –
Part 2.
- Changes to IW maintenance responsibility,
- Standard for compliance of PE Pipe joints revised,
- Sampling and testing of PE pipes updated,
- Specification for pipe surround and bedding material amended
to reflect IS EN 13242 requirements for 14 to 5mm (d/D 2/14)
and 10mm (d/D 4/10),

137
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

- Revised requirement for protection of shallow depth pipework,

- Requirements for torque blocks revised,
- Clarification on telemetry requirements,
- Amendments for PE Auditing/Standards and Test
Acceptance.

The particular changes to the various Sections and Sub-Sections

of the Code of Practice are outlined below in this list of
amendments.
Particular Description of Change for Revision 2
Amendments
Background Minor changes have been included as well as an amendment to
the 4th paragraph to change “should” to “shall” in the 2nd sentence.
Table of Section 1.7 has been retitled “Application for a Conformance
Contents Certificate”.
Section 3.7, Sizing of Water Mains has been expanded to list the
Sub-Section 3.7.1 to 3.7.2
Section 3.10, Pipe Joints, has been expanded to list Sub-Section
3.10.1 to 3.10.3.
Section 3.27, has been retitled “Working Near Exosting Pipes
(Notifications and Separation Distances)
New Sections have been included in Part 5, Booster Pumping
Stations, Kiosks and Ancillary Works, i.e. Section 5.7, Section 5.8
and Section 5.12 to Section 5.23.
Previous Appendix C, “Selection of Typical Standard Details” has
been omitted.
Appendix C, previously Appendix D, List of Amendments
Associated with Revision 2 has been included.
Glossary of New definitions for the following have been included:
Terms and
Definitions “Brownfield”, “Building Regulations”, “Business Day”, “Connection
Application”, “Connection Point(s)”, “Connection Works”,
“Construction Regulations”, “Developer”, “Developments”,
“Easements” “Network(s)”, “PRA Compliant Map”, “Premise
Pipework”, “Relevant Standards”, “Required Security”, “requisite
Consents” “Self-Lay Works”, “Sewage and Sewage Effluent”,
“Water and Wastewater Services Infrastructure”,

Revised definition of the following have been included:

“Backfill”, “Boundary”, “Completion Certificate”, “Conformance

Certificate”, “Connection Agreement”, “Connection Offer”,
“Connection Works”, “Customer”, Curtilage”, “Deed of Grant of
Easement”, “Irish Water”, “Local Authority”, “Manhole”, “Premises”,
“Road Authority”, “Security”, “Service Connection”, “Water
Network”, “Water Connection Point”, and “Works”.

138
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Section 1.1 The 1st sentence has been amended to outline what the “Works”
covers. Two new paragraphs have been included at the end of the
Section.
Section 1.2 Minor changes made to the 2nd paragraph making reference to
“Bord Gais” and the “Commission of Regulation of Utilities”.
Section 1.3 Sub-Section 1.3.2 amended to indicate that Irish Water’s
contractor undertakes the work,
Section 1.4 Amendment to Section 1.4.1 to clarify that a Pre-connection
Enquiry is mandatory for Developments using the planning
procedures of the Strategic Housing Development Regulations.
Section 1.5 The 3rd paragraph has been amended to outline that the water
quality tests have to comply with the parametric standards laid
down in Statutory Instrument 122 of 2014, European Union
(Drinking Water) Regulations 2014. The last sentence of this
paragraph outlines a relaxation of the 14-day period for retesting.
Section 1.6 The 3rd paragraph has been expanded to indicate that Irish Water
may require remediation work on the distribution system for the
protection of public health and/or water conservation. A new
paragraph has been added to indicate that the responsibility for
the maintenance of the water supply service connection to
Premises is outlined on the Irish Water website, www.water.ie and
in the Pipe Maintenance Responsibility Diagrams included therein.
Section 1.7 Amendments as follows:
- 2nd paragraph has been amended to refer to the “Quality
Assurance Field Inspection Requirements” Manual.
- Additional paragraph included after Sub-Section 1.7.2 to
indicate that the issuing of the Conformance Certificate marks
the commencement of the Defects Liability Period.
- Sub-Sections 1.7.3, 1.7.4 and 1.7.5 amended to require the
Chartered Engineer confirmation to be provided in writing.
- Minor amendment to Sub-Section 1.7.7.
- Sub-section 1.7.9 to expand the information to be included in
Operation and Maintenance Manual of Pump Stations.
- Minor amendment to Sub-Section 1.7.10.
- Sub-Section 1.7.15 amended to revise scale of drawings and
CAD compatibility requirements.
- Sub-Section 1.7.15.5 amended to include the horizontal and
vertical scale for As-Constructed drawings. .
Section 1.8 The 1st paragraph expanded to indicate that the minor corrections
shall be addressed by the Developer within a reasonable
timeframe before the connection is completed.
Section 1.9 Amended as follows:
- New sentence included at end of 1st paragraph indication that
Irish Water will undertake investigation of the Works during the
Defects Liability Period.
- Clarification provided in second paragraph in relation to

139
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

development of subsequent phases of an overall Development.

Section 1.10 Minor amendments to reflect new defined terms. Last paragraph
amended to indicate that the Developer is responsible for the
operation and maintenance of the infrastructure until the end of
the Defects Liability Period.
Section 1.11 Minor amendments to reflect new defined terms.
Section 1.12 Minor amendments to reflect new defined terms. The last
paragraph amended to make reference to Sub-Sections 1.5.6 to
Sub-Section 1.5.8.
Section 1.13 Minor amendments to reflect new defined terms.
Section 1.14 Minor amendments to reflect new defined terms. A new 2 nd
paragraph is included to outline that additional surveys and
inspection are to be undertaken to locate defects at the cost of the
Developer.
Section 1.15 Minor amendments to reflect new defined terms.
Section 1.17 Minor amendments to reflect new defined terms. The 6th
paragraph amended to indicate that Irish Water will provide the
make and model for any meter to be provided on a fire main. Th
last paragraph amended to indicate that the location of fire
hydrants is to ensure fire fighting can be carried out within the
Development. .
Section 1.19 The 3rd paragraph has been amended in respect of the use of
newly developed products and indicating that Irish water is not
obliged to accept such products.
Section 1.22 The 1st paragraph amended to indicate that a Developer who
requires a water supply connection during the Development
construction period for temporary site office accommodation and
general construction activities shall apply to Irish Water for the
provision of this temporary water supply.
Section 1.23 The 1st paragraph amended to outline requirements for any
pipework that is installed to facilitate providing a future connection
to contiguous undeveloped sites.
Section 2.1 Amendment of the 2nd paragraph to indicate that the Developer’s
designer is to be competent.
Section 2.2 Amendment of the 2nd paragraph to in relation to the continued
responsibility of the Developer’s designer and the retention of
Professional Indemnity Insurance for a period of 6 years after the
issue of the Completion Certificate.
Section 2.3 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 2.3.13 expanded to require the submission of
Fire Authority approvals for the development.
- Sub-Section 2.3.15 expanded to required identification of the
manufacturers of pipelines and accessory materials.
- A new Sub-Section 2.3.16 included to require the submission
of certification of fittings and materials used in the Works.
- Section 2.3.18 expanded to require a report on separation

140
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

distances.
- A new Sub-Section 2.3.21 included to require the submission
of a Preliminary Health and Safety Plan.
- New Sub-Section 2.3.24 included to require the submission of
information where construction of the Works is to be carried
out on made ground, engineered ground or in fill zones and
the submission of geotechnical reports and the submission of
method statements for the construction of the Works.
Section 2.4 Amended as follows:
- The 3rd paragraph has been amended to indicate revised
arrangements for the submission of drawings.
- Sub-section 2.4.2 expanded to require the submission of an
overall development plan layout of the units intended to be
constructed and delivered in phases indicating phase lines and
control breaks.
- Sub-Section 2.4.9 expanded to require the submission of
information of above ground structures that are to be vested by
Irish Water
- Sub-Section 2.4.11 expanded to require the submission of
details of existing services crossing the Works and details of
thrust blocks, etc.
- Sub-Section 2.4.13 expanded to require the submission of
details made ground, engineered ground or fill zones.
- Sub-Section 2.4.14 expanded to require the integrated utility
layout pan to comply with required separation distances. .
- The 7th paragraph has been expanded to require the
submission of manufacturer’s data sheets and certificates for
the long with the schedule of materials required for the
proposed Works. .
- A new 9th paragraph is included to require that the design
submission to include specific information of any business
(non-domestic) customers that are to be served as well as any
other pertinent information.
Section 2.5 The last paragraph is amended to require on site flow and
pressure verification of the hydraulic model results shall be used
to confirm this and Irish Water shall be provided with an
opportunity to observe these verifications.
Section 2.6 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 2.6.7 has been expanded to outline the
requirement for the provision of a sluice valve and a bypass
complete with a meter to measure night-flows in developments
that are not fitted with bulk meter.
- Sub-Section 2.6.12 has been expanded to indicate that break
tanks and booster pumps may be required for taller buildings
as necessary to augment normal background supply pressure
Section 3.1 The 1st paragraph is expanded to require compliance with the

141
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Standard Details as well as Codes of Practice.

Section 3.2 The word “should” has been replaced with “shall” in the 2 nd and 3rd
paragraphs.
Section 3.3 Amended as follows:
- A new 1st paragraph has been expanded to require the
Developer to have an auditable system in place to trace
materials from manufacture, specification, purchase and
through to delivery and their use in the permanent Works on
site.
- A new Sub-Section 3.3.3 is included to indicate that other
material to those listed in 3.3.1 and 3.3.2 (DWI and WRAS)
may be accepted by Irish Water provided that they have
certification equivalence for use in contact with water intended
for human consumption from other EU States from nationally
recognised Certification Bodies, subject to review by Irish
Water.
Section 3.4 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 3.4.4 amended to outline protection measures for
pipes installed at shallow depths, i.e., the provision of
reinforced concrete protection slab.
- New Sub-Section 3.4.8 requiring the Works to be watertight in
accordance with the requirement of Sub-Clause 4.10.3.
- New Sub-Clause 3.4.9 requiring that no trees or large shrubs
be located over the Works.
Section 3.5 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 3.5.1 expanded to require the infrastructure layout
to be a simple and short as possible.
- Sub-Section 3.5.2 expanded to include location of infrastructure
is separated from trees, shrubs, also.
- Sub-Section 3.5.3 expanded to include renewal, replacement
and upgrading.
- Sub-Section 3.5.4 expanded to include renewal, replacement
and upgrading.
- Sub-Clause 3.5.5 expanded to indicate that the infrastructure
can be safely accessed.
- Sub-Section 3.5.6 expanded to require service connection
lengths to be minimised.
- Sub-Section 3.5.7 clarified in relation to a “single supply
network”.
- Sub-Section 3.5.8 is expanded to indicate that the water main
may be located on roadways is there are space constraints on
footpaths. .
- Sub-Section 3.5.13 has been expanded to indicate that the
loop main is to be of the same internal diameter as the branch
main to which it is connected. .
- Sub-Section 3.5.16 amended to qualify that the minimum size

142
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

of water pipes in industrial developments is to be 150mm or as

agreed with Irish Water.
- Sub-Section 3.5.22 amended to indicate that the loop main is to
be connected to the spur-main downstream of a sluice valve to
allow for one directional flushing.
- Sub-Section 3.5.23 amended to set the maximum length of a
spur for an off-line hydrant.
- Sub-Section 3.5.25 expanded to indicate that the 46m
maximum distance for domestic properties and hydrants should
not take account of wash-out hydrants.
- Sub-Section 3.5.25 expanded to clarify valve requirements for
duplicate mains at inaccessible crossings.
- Sub-Section 3.5.31 amended to indicate that in developments
with a water demand less that 20m3 per day where bulk meters
are not requires, an alternative arrangement is to be provided
to allow measurement of night flows.
- Sub-Section 3.5.32 amended to clarify the requirement for
Easements for any connection to future developments.
Section 3.6 The 2nd sentence of the 1st paragraph has been amended to omit
the word “above” and replace it with the word “below”.
Section 3.7 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 3.7.1, 2nd paragraph, 4th sentence has been
expanded to limit the length of a 25mm service connection to
15m.
- Sub-Section 3.7.1, 2nd paragraph, 5th sentence has been
expanded to limit the length of a 32mm service connection to
15m.
- Sub-Section 3.7.1, additional Note included under the Table in
relation to the limit of the length of service connection of 32mm
diameter.
Section 3.8 An additional sentence has been added to the 3 rd paragraph
indication that Irish Water will not allow cross connection of
supplies, e.g. supply from one service connection providing water
supply to another property.
Section 3.9 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 3.9.4 amended to include “WIS” in advance of “4-
32-08”.
- Sub-Section 3.9.5 amended to refer to IGN-4-32.18.
- The 4th paragraph has been edited to include “very” in advance
of “exceptional”.
- The 4th paragraph has been edited to include “very” in advance
of “exceptional”.
Section 3.10 Significant changes have been carried out to Section 3.10. These
are generally covering the following:
- The Section has been sub-divided into Sub-Sections.
- Revised Standards and requirements have been included in

143
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Sub-Section 3.10.1 for fusion welding, welding equipment, etc.

- Revised requirement are included in Sub-Section 3.10.2 for
jointing of polyethylene pipes.
- Revised requirement are included in Sub-Section 3.10.3 for
auditing and testing of polyethylene pipe joints.
- Additional requirement are included in Sub-Section 3.10.3 for
jointing of polyethylene pipe coils.
Section 3.11 Amended as follows:
- The 1st sentence of the 2nd paragraph has been expanded to
require the depth of cover in road verges to be 900mm.
- The 4th sentence of the 2nd paragraph has been amended to
include “depth of” ahead of “cover” and “shall” is included to
replace “should”.
- A 3rd paragraph has bene included to outline pipe protection
measures for water mains that are not installed with the
required depth of cover.
Section 3.14 Amended as follows:
- The 3rd paragraph has been expanded to outline requirements
for the location of Boundary Boxes.
- The 6th paragraph has been expanded to outlined requirements
relating to manifold Boundary Box systems for water service
connections for multi unit low rise buildings.
Section 3.15 Amended as follows:
Sub-Section 3.15.1 has been amended as follows:
- The original first paragraph has been split into a number of
paragraphs and amendments included as outlined below.
- The 1st paragraph (new) outlines clarifications on meter types
installed in Boundary Boxes and Chambers. It also outlines that
the Developer is to install a spool piece in the location to be
occupied by meters and that Irish Water will install a meter in
the spool piece location following connection.
- The 3rd paragraph (new) outlines a flow measurement system
for Developments that have a demand less than 20m 3 per day
and are not fitted with bulk meters.
- A new 5th paragraph has been included to outline the
requirement to provide meter Chambers and to indicate that
Irish Water will install the meters and, where required, strainers
in the chambers in lieu of spool pieces installed by the
Developer.
- A new 6th paragraph has been included to outline metering
requirements for multi unit residential and commercial
developments.
Sub-Section 3.15.2 has been amended as follows:
- A new 2nd paragraph has been included to outline metering
requirements for low-rise and high-rise multi unit developments.
Sub-Section 3.15.3 has been expanded as follows:

144
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

- An additional sentence has been included to indicate that

Developers are to provide meters chambers into which Irish
Water will subsequently fit a meter.
Sub-Section 3.15.4 has been amended as follows:
- The 2nd paragraph has bene expanded to indicate that a
hydrant is only required where an electromagnetic meter is
being installed.
- The 3rd paragraph has been expanded to indicate that Irish
Water will advise if a strainer is required for mechanical meters.
- The 4th paragraph is expanded to indicate when a bypass is
required for a meter.
- The 6th paragraph is expanded to indicate when mechnical
meters will be provided for housing developments (40 – 249
units) and when non-mechanical (electromagnetic) meters will
be provided (250 units and above). It is also indicated that
telemetry system will be located in an adjoining kiosk for all
non-mechanical meters.
- The 7th paragraph is expanded to outline kiosk requirements for
meters.
- The 8th paragraph has been expanded to outline kiosk
requirements for non-mechanical meters.
- The 9th paragraph has bene expanded to outline that a night
flow meter system is required in developments of 20m3
demand where bulk meters are not provided.
Section 3.16 Amended as follows:
Sub-Section 3.16.2 has been amended as follows:
- The 3rd paragraph has been amended to set out the maximum
and minimum separation distances between the stem cap of a
sluice valve and ground level.
- The 4th paragraph has been expanded to indicate that the
direction of closing of the valve is to be included in the valve
marker plate.
Sub-Section 3.16.5 has been amended as follows:
- The 1st paragraph has been expanded to indicate that the
hydrant outlet type provided is to be to the requirements of the
Fire Authority in the area.
- The 4th and 6th paragraphs have been amended to exclude the
use of electro-fusion saddle for the 80mm flanged branch
connections for hydrants.
- The 5th paragraph has been expanded to set the maximum
length of a spur for an off-line hydrant.
- A new 7th paragraph has bene included to allow the use of
polyethylene pipework for the length of a spur for an off-line
hydrant.
- The last paragraph has been corrected to include “200mm”
instead of “200m”.

145
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

Sub-Section 3.16.6 has been amended as follows:

- The 5th paragraph has been expanded to set the maximum
length of a spur for an off-line hydrant.
- The 6th paragraphs have been amended to exclude the use of
electro-fusion saddle for the 80mm flanged branch connections
for air valves.
- A new 7th paragraph has bene included to allow the use of
polyethylene pipework for the length of a spur for an off-line
hydrant.
Sub-Section 3.16.7 has been amended as follows:
- The 3rd paragraph is corrected to refer to “WIS 4-52-03” rather
than “WIS 5-52-03”.
- The 5th and 6th paragraphs are amended to indicate that flange
adaptors for polyethylene pipes shall be designed for Type 1
end restraint to IS EN 12842 and IS EN 14525.
Section 3.18 Amended as follows:
- The 1st paragraph is amended to outline chamber and floor slab
sizes for sluice valve and hydrant chambers.
- New 2ndand 3rd paragraphs are included to show reduced
sluice valve and hydrant chamber sizes in non-trafficked areas.
- A new 4th paragraph is included outlining the chamber size
required for air valve chambers.
- The 5th paragraph has been expanded to outline the
construction materials for chambers.
- The 6th paragraph has been expanded to include a
specification for mortar for blockwork chambers.
- The 7th paragraph is expanded to specify the concrete strength
for chamber bases and to also outline dimensions of the bas for
different locations and construction methods. It is also indicated
that free draining granular material is required beneath the
drain hole in the base slab to allow free drainage of liquid from
the chamber.
- The 8th paragraph calls up the TII Specification for Roadworks.
- The 9th paragraph has bene amended to call up applicable
Standards for concrete and aggregate in the base slab and to
indicate the cover required for rebar.
- The 10th paragraph has been expanded to indicate that the
chamber covers are to be set flush with the finished road
surface.
- The 11th paragraph is expanded to indicate that all chamber
cover/frames to be bedded with rapid hardening cementitious,
epoxy or polyester resin mortar, with a minimum working time
of 15 minutes, a minimum compressive strength of 30 N/mm 2
and 5 N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing. In addition it is required
that chambers cover/frames to be seated on Class B
engineering brick in minimum M30 strength mortar to IS EN

146
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

998 – Part 2.
Section 3.19 Amended as follows:
- The 1st paragraph has been expanded to outline chamber sizes
for different meter dimensions.
- The 2nd paragraph has been expanded to clarify when separate
strainer chambers are required and the requirement for the
provision of an appropriately sized spool piece in lieu of the
strainer, which will be removed and replaced by Irish Water
when the strainer is fitted.
- The 5th paragraph has been expanded to indicate that the
chamber should be sized to accommodate a data logger if a
separate kiosk is not provided.
- The 7th paragraph is expanded to indicate that all chamber
cover/frames to be bedded with rapid hardening cementitious,
epoxy or polyester resin mortar, with a minimum working time
of 15 minutes, a minimum compressive strength of 30 N/mm 2
and 5 N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing. In addition it is required
that chambers cover/frames to be seated on Class B
engineering brick in minimum M30 strength mortar to IS EN
998 – Part 2.
- A new 8th paragraph is included outlining the requirement for
the provision of spool pieces in meter chambers.
- The 9th paragraph has been expanded to indicate the size
requirements for valve and hydrant chambers that are provided
in association with meter chambers.
Section 3.20 Amended as follows:
- The 6th paragraph has been expanded to indicate that all
chamber cover/frames to be bedded with rapid hardening
cementitious, epoxy or polyester resin mortar, with a minimum
working time of 15 minutes, a minimum compressive strength
of 30 N/mm2 and 5 N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing. In addition
it is required that chambers cover/frames to be seated on Class
B engineering brick in minimum M30 strength mortar to IS EN
998 – Part 2.
- The last paragraph is expanded to give requirements for small
sized PRV and PSV chambers.
Section 3.21 Amended as follows:
- The 2nd paragraph is amended to exclude BS 5911 and replace
it with IS 420. The grade of concrete in the concrete surround
has been changed to C20/25.
- The 3rd paragraph is amended to exclude BS 5911 and replace
it with IS 420. The dimensions of the roof opening have been
revised to 600mm by 600mm or 600mm diameter.
- The 5th paragraph has been expanded to indicate that all
chamber cover/frames to be bedded with rapid hardening
cementitious, epoxy or polyester resin mortar, with a minimum

147
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

working time of 15 minutes, a minimum compressive strength

of 30 N/mm2 and 5 N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing. In addition
it is required that chambers cover/frames to be seated on Class
B engineering brick in minimum M30 strength mortar to IS EN
998 – Part 2.
Section 3.23 Amended as follows:
- The 2nd paragraph is amended to indicate that “Hydrant”
marker plates are to comply with BS 3251.
- The last paragraph has been expanded to indicate that plastic
marker posts and plastic indicator plates shall not be provided
under any circumstance.
Section 3.26 The acronyms in the first paragraph are expanded. The last
paragraph is expanded to indicate that Irish water does not favour
planting over its infrastructure.
Section 3.27 Amended as follows:
- The title of the section has been amended to “Working Near
Existing Pipes (Notifications and Separation Distances”
- 1st paragraph amended to indicate that works in the vicinity of
Irish Water assets of 400mm diameter and more require written
agreement from the utility prior to undertaking the work.
- 2nd paragraph amended to limit the application of Sub-Section
3.27.1 to 3.27.8 to situations where the asset is not exceeding
1.5m deep.
- 3rd paragraph amended to require specific written agreement in
relation to assets greater than 1.5m deep or where the
separation distances are less than set out in Sub-Section
3.27.1 to 3.27.8.
- A new paragraph (4th paragraph) is included to require
minimum separation distances as outlined in Section 3.5.18
and Section 3.6.
- Sub-Section 3.27.9 to Sub-Section 3.27.11 amended to include
“pipe” rather than “main”.
Section 3.28 Amended as follows:
- The 1st paragraph has been amended to indicate that only
indirect plumbing systems should be provided in internal water
distributions systems i.e. all appliances shall be plumbed from
a cold-water storage tank and supplied by gravity. The benefits
of such indirect systems are identified as ensuring that
adequate storage capacity is available to serve all appliances
within the Premises.
- More guideline water storage volume breakdown is provided for
commercial buildings such as restaurants and hotels.
Section 3.29 The 3rd paragraph has been amended to indicate that pipework
connected to or from rainwater harvesting systems shall be clearly
labelled in accordance with the requirements of EN 16941-1 to
avoid misconnection or accidental consumption of non-potable

148
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

water.
Section 4.1 Amended as follows:
- The 3rd paragraph is amended to call in the requirements of the
Code of Practice.
- The 3rd paragraph is expanded. Item (f) is included requiring
protection of the environment.
- The word “should” has been replaced by the word “shall” in the
4th, 5th and 6th paragraphs.
- The term “leak tight” is explained as passing the requirement of
Section 4.10, Testing and Commissioning.
- A new last paragraph has been included indicating that the
Developer shall comply with the requirements of Section 1.5,
relating to protection of water quality, and Section 1.12, relating
to hygiene requirements, during the construction and
commissioning of the Works.
Section 4.2 The 4th paragraph is expanded to require pipes and fittings to be
kept clear of fuel oils and any material that might contaminate the
material.
Section 4.3 Expanded to require the use of trial holes to locate existing
services.
Section 4.5 Transport Infrastructure Ireland is nominated instead of National
Roads Authority.
Clause 4.6 Amended as follows:
- The 1st sentence of the 3rd paragraph has been amended to
replace “The blocks” with “Anchor and support blocks”.
- The 3rd sentence of the 3rd paragraph is amended to indicate
that thrust blocks are required for bends of 11.25 deg. and
greater.
- The last sentence of the 3rd paragraph has bene expanded to
indicate that compressible filler board and plastic sheeting is
required around polyethylene pipes cast against the concrete of
thrust and anchor blocks.
- The 4th paragraph is clarified in relation to the provision of
torque blocks.
- The 6th paragraph is clarified in relation to the provision of
information by the Developer when specialised pipe support
systems are proposed.
- The last paragraph is amended to outline that fully integrated
PE pipe systems may not require anchorage supports. It is
further indicated that where supports are required,
compressible filler board, in accordance with the provisions of
IS EN 622, Part 1 to Part 4, wrapped in plastic sheeting having
a composition in accordance with BS 6076, shall be provided
for protection between the concrete and the polyethylene pipe.
Section 4.8 Amended as follows:
- The 1st paragraph has been amended to nominate pipe

149
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

bedding and surround material in accordance with the

nominations in IS EN 13242.
- The 2nd paragraph is expanded to describe the fill below the
pipe invert in the event that over excavation is required in
trenches with rock formation.
- The 3rd paragraph ahs been amended to replace the word
“should” with the word “shall” in two locations.
- The 4th paragraph is clarified to in relation to the requirement to
granular surround for both rigid and flexible pipes.
- The 1st sentence of the 5th paragraph ahs been amended to
replace the word “should” with the word “shall”
- The 6th paragraph has been amended to indicate that pipe
protection measures may be required to address impact from
loading in heavily trafficked areas and to address minimum
pipe cover situations and that the detail of such protection
proposals shall be submitted to Irish Water for review and a
response is required before advancing with the work.
- New requirements are included in the 7th paragraph to outline
protection measures for pipes that do not have the required
depth of cover.
- The 1st sentence of the last paragraph has been amended to
include the word “shall” instead of the word “should” It has aslo
been amended to call out Transport Infrastructure Ireland is
nominated instead of National Roads Authority.
- The last sentence of the last paragraph outlines that any
proposals for pipe supports in soft ground are to be submitted
and agreed with Irish Water before construction.
Section 4.9 Amendments have been included in 3rd paragraph which allow
alternative Backfill material, other than Clause 804 and Clause
808 granular material, to be used in pipe trenches within
developments subject to a written statement from the Roads
Authority of the functional area where the development is located
being made available to Irish Water in the Design Submission.
This is to comprise “acceptable material” in accordance with
Clause 601 of the TII “Specification for Roadworks, Series 600 –
Earthworks”, Table 6/1 and the Local Authority is to clearly
nominate the Class of “acceptable material” in the written
approval. Amendments included in 7th paragraph outlining a
specification for Backfill material in green field areas.
Clause 4.9 Minor amendments are included as follows:
- The 4th paragraph is clarified in relation to the provision of
torque blocks.
- The 6th paragraph is clarified in relation to the provision of
information by the Developer when specialised pipe support
systems are proposed.
- The last paragraph is amended to outline that anchorage for

150
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

fully integrated PE pipe systems may not require anchorage

supports. .
Section 4.10 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 4.10.1 has been amended to outline the several
steps required for the commissioning of Water Mains. It is
indicated that a method statement is to be provided by the
Developer for the commissioning of the Main. It is also
indicated that compliance with Section 1.12 (Hygiene
Requirements) is required during commissioning.
- Sub-Section 4.10.2 has been expanded to outline requirements
for the removal of swabs during the cleaning of the Water
Mains.
- Sub-Section 4.10.3.1 has been amended to indicate that
pressure testing is to be carried out in the presence of Irish
Water’s field engineer or agent. It has also been amended to
indicate that testing against closed valves is not to be carried
out.
- Sub- Section 4.10.3.2 (Ductile Iron Pressure Testing) has been
amended to outline revised criteria for DI pipe testing including
the requirement for allowing the main to settle for 24 hours
rather than “over night”. .
- Sub- Section 4.10.3.3 (Polyethylene Pipe Pressure Testing)
has been amended to outline revised criteria for PE pipe
testing.
- Sub-Section 4.10.4 has been expanded to outline revised
requirements for swabbing after testing and it is indicated that
this may be required at the discretion of the field engineer.
- Sub-Section 4.10.5 has been amended in relation to
disinfection of Water Mains.
- A new Sub-Section 4.10.6 has been included to outline
requirements for disposal of water following disinfection.
- A new Sub-Section 4.10.7 has been included to outline
requirements for flushing of Water Mains.
Section 4.11 Amended as follows:
- The title of the Section has been amended to “Water Quality
Sampling and Testing”.
- The 1st paragraph has been amended to indicate the
requirement for water quality testing following disinfection,
flushing, refilling of the main after a standing period of 24
hours.
- A new 2nd paragraph has been included to outline the on-site
tests that are required and these are set out in a new Table.
- The 3rd paragraph has been expanded to indicate that chemical
as well a microbiological testing is required.
- The 4th paragraph has bene expanded to indicate that the Irish
Water field engineer is to be on site when the water quality

151
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

sample is being taken. It is also amended to require provision

of evidence of the accreditation and range of accredited testing
of the sampling/testing laboratory.
- A new 5th paragraph has bene included to outline the sampling
locations for the water quality sampling.
- The 6th and 7th paragraph outline the range of off-site
parameters to be tested and the acceptable limits for these
parameters. .
Section 4.12 Amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 4.12.3 has been amended to change
“bacteriological analysis” to “water quality analysis”.
- The 2nd paragraph has been amended to indicate that
connection will only be made to the Irish Water Network only
when Irish Water is satisfied that all pre-connection
requirements as outlined above have been met, that all Final
Documents have been submitted and are deemed satisfactory
and that a final site walk-off confirms that the infrastructure is to
an acceptable standard and that it is fit for purpose.
- The last paragraph has been expanded to indicate that in the
event that connection to the Network is not achieved within 14
days, some leeway may be allowed, subject to certain
conditions, for the connection to be allowed up to 28 days
without the need for additional water quality testing.
Section 4.13 The title of this Section has been amended to “Final Flushing of
Water Mains”.
Section 4.14 Section 4.14 has been significantly amended to outline the
requirements for the provision of service connection between the
installed Water Main and the distribution system with the
Premises. It also outlines the pressure tests that are required for
the service connection system and outlines the requirement for
night flow audits during the Defects Liability Period to confirm the
water tightness of the Works.
Part 5 Part 5 describes requirements for Booster Pump Stations. It has
(General been significantly expanded to include additional electrical, testing,
amendment) commissioning and associated requirements which were not
previously included.
Section 5.1 This Section has been expanded to include aa description of
booster pump stations and a diagram of a typical station is
provided. It is also indicated that modelling may be required to
assess the impact of the booster station on the existing Network.
Section 5.2 A new Section 5.2 has been included to outline what has to be
submitted at design stage to Irish Water when booster pump
stations are proposed.
Section 5.3 This was previously Section 5.2 and outlines the booster pump
station technical requirements. It has been amended as follows:
- Sub-Section 5.3.14 has been amended to outline the required

152
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

operating speed of 1,450 r.p.m and that alternative peed pump

may be considered for the booster pump station subject to Irish
Water consideration.
- Sub-Section 5.3.17 has been included ndicating a requirement
that all motors must operate at or above the IE 3 efficiency
band.
- Sub-Section 5.3.18 has been included to indicate that by-pass
pipework is required at the booster pump station.
Section 5.4 This was previously Section 5.3. It has been amended as follows:
- Progressive cavity pumps have been omitted. .
- It is outlined that the material used has to be approved as
suitable for use in contact with water for human consumption.
Section 5.5 This was previously Section 5.4. No further amendments have
been applied.
Section 5.6 This was previously Section 5.5. No further amendments have
been applied.
Section 5.7 A new Section 5.7 is included to outline pressure control
requirements for the booster pump station.
Section 5.8 A new Section 5.8 is included to outline flow metering
requirements for the booster pump station.
Section 5.9 This was previously Section 5.7. Amendments have been applied
as follows:
- The requirement to provide wet kiosks and telemetry kiosks
has been omitted.
- Only metal kiosks are allowed.
- The locking system is amended from SR4 to SR3, to LPS 1175
or IS EN 1627. .
Section 5.10 This was previously Section 5.8. Amendments have been applied
as follows:
- A specification for the blockwork is now included indicating that
it is to be laid on flat, bedded in mortar, of minimum M12
strength to IS EN 998-Part 2, and flush pointed. The block units
shall comply with the requirements of IS EN 771 - Part 3.
Section 5.11 This was previously Section 5.9. Amendments have been applied
as follows:
- The 1st paragraph has been amended to outline the
requirement that ducting is to be in accordance with IS EN
61386-24. In addition ducts used for ESB Networks cables are
to be in accordance with ESB Networks specification 16113
and IS 370 colour code.
- A new 3rd paragraph has been added to indicate that the lowest
positioned chamber is to incorporate a drain to a soak away. In
addition the duct or duct banks shall be located 150mm above
the floor level of the duct chamber.
- A new 4th paragraph has been included describing where
various type, number and size of ducts are to be provided.

153
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

- The 7th paragraph has been expanded has been expanded to

indicate that all chamber cover/frames to be bedded with rapid
hardening cementitious, epoxy or polyester resin mortar, with a
minimum working time of 15 minutes, a minimum compressive
strength of 30 N/mm2 and 5 N/mm2 within 3 hours of mixing. In
addition it is required that chambers cover/frames to be seated
on Class B engineering brick in minimum M30 strength mortar
to IS EN 998 – Part 2.
Section 5.12 A new Section 5.12 has been included and titled “General
Electrical Requirements” to outline general electrical requirements.
Section 5.13 A new Section 5.13 “Cables” has been included outlining the
requirements for electrical cables.
Section 5.14 A new Section 5.14 “Cables Installation” has been included
outlining the requirements for electrical cable installation.
Section 5.15 A new Section 5.15 “Control Panel General Requirements” has
been included outlining the requirements for pump control panels.
Section 5.16 A new Section 5.16 “Form 4 Control Panel Components -
Additional Requirements” has been included outlining the
requirements for Form 4 pump control panels.
Section 5.17 A new Section 5.17 “Earthing and Bonding” is included outlining
requirements for earthing and bonding.
Section 5.18 A new Section 5.18 “Control Philosophy” is included outlining the
control philosophy for booster pump stations.
Section 5.19 A new Section 5.19 “Testing” is included outlining requirements for
testing of booster pump stations.
Section 5.20 A new Section 5.20 “Abnormal Operations” is included to outline
the requirements for abnormal operation for pump stations.
Section 5.21 A new Section 5.21 “Telemetry” is included to outline the
requirements for telemetry signalling for pump stations.
Section 5.22 A new Section 5.22 “Dial Out Alarm” is included to outline the
requirements for dial out alarms at pump stations.
Section 5.23 A new Section 5.23 “Operation and Maintenance Manual” is
included to outline the requirements for inclusion in operation and
maintenance manuals.
Appendix B Reference additional Standards referred to in the Code of
Practice, Revision 2, are included in Appendix B.
Previous The previous Appendix C, titled “Selection of Typical Details”, has
Appendix C been omitted
Appendix C Appendix C - List of Amendments Associated with Revision 2 –
has been included.

154
IW-CDS-5020-03 (Revision 2 – 2020)

155