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5.3.6 New Developments: The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999
New regulatory measures within the UK are being implemented in order to safeguard the quality of drinking water and to reduce water use.
The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999, cover new domestic and commercial plumbing installations and fittings, and aim to prevent the waste and contamination of water supplies. The regulations were due to come into force on 1 July 1999 to replace water bylaws in England and Wales.
The main changes are:
- A reduction of 20% in the amount of water flushed by new toilets from January 2001.
- For dual flush toilets to be permitted again.
- A substantial reduction in the maximum volume of water used per cycle in washing machines and dishwashers.
- More stringent notification procedures to inform water companies of the installation of high water using products.
- An improved system of back flow prevention measures, to avoid contamination of drinking water through the back flow of water in industrial and domestic installations.
- Provisions for setting up approved contractors schemes.
The regulations are designed to protect against the use of faulty water fittings, which also covers those posing a risk of contaminating drinking water in the water company's mains and in the home and workplace. Water companies will remain responsible for the enforcement of these regulations.
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