Welsh Water and WaterSafe briefing note for plumbers

WaterSafe is the national register of approved plumbers, supported by all UK water companies, including Welsh Water, and the drinking water regulator.

 It was set up to promote competent plumbers to help keep Wales’ drinking water safe and free from contamination.

 All WaterSafe Approved Plumbers are trained and qualified in The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999.

 And as all premises supplied by Welsh Water are required to comply with these regulations, the company promotes the use of WaterSafe plumbers to all its customers.

What are the benefits of being a member of WaterSafe?

• Free promotion and branding – get listed on the largest online directory for approved plumbers in the UK, promoted by Welsh Water to its three million customers.
• Customer reassurance – that you’re qualified to work with drinking water and supported by Welsh Water and the drinking water regulator.
• A direct link to Welsh Water – to self-notify plumbing work and access free advice on the water regulations and byelaws.

 So, stand out from the competition and reach more customers – all with the support of Welsh Water.

How can I join?

 Plumbers must be qualified, have a recognised water fittings regulations certificate, and be a member of one of the seven Approved Contractors’ Schemes that make up WaterSafe. It is then free to join WaterSafe.

 In Wales these are:

• The Water Industry Approved Plumbers Scheme (WIAPS)
• The Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (CIPHE)
• The Association of Plumbing and Heating Contractors (APHC)
• Severn Trent’s WaterMark scheme, which operates in the area supplied by Severn Trent Water only.

 WIAPS is free to join, supported by Welsh Water, and is the largest of the schemes.

Requirements to join WIAPS and WaterSafe

1. Individuals must hold a recognised plumbing qualification. There are over 60 accepted qualifications. Full details can be provided by WIAPS.
2. The plumbing qualification should be supported by a recognised water fittings regulations certificate. WIAPS will be able to provide a list of certification bodies that offer certificates in Water Regulations Knowledge.
3. The company or individual should hold a minimum level of Public Liability Insurance (£2m) and where appropriate, a minimum level of Employer’s Liability Insurance (£5m).

 Welsh Water will also ask you to be available for site meetings from time-to-time, so it can share the latest industry news, ensure your work remains compliant and develop a supportive working relationship with members.

Further information:

Welsh Water: Visit www.dwrcymru.com or contact the Water Regulations team at waterregulations@dwrcymru.com. 

 WIAPS: Visit the WRAS website at wras.co.uk or contact WIAPS at wiaps@wras.co.uk or on 0333 207 9030 (option 1). They will be able to help with questions about joining WIAPS and WaterSafe.

 WaterSafe: Visit watersafe.org.uk/ how to join to find out more about joining if you’re already a member of an Approved Contractors’ Scheme.