Tom Reynolds, Chief Executive of the Bathroom Manufacturers Association, looks at everything installers need to know about Reg 4:
A recent seminar hosted by the BMA sought to highlight UK Water Regulation 4 compliance and the importance of installers’ education on all the compliant testing schemes available. The outcome was a stark reminder that awareness of Reg 4 compliance and the installer’s role continues to be a topic deserving of greater attention.
First, installers must understand why organisations like the BMA and the BPMA devote so much time to discussing this aspect of water fittings regulations. The regulations require products to be of an appropriate standard and suitable for the circumstances they are used for (preventing water supply contamination). For manufacturers, it’s about supplying quality products that protect the safety of consumers’ water supply.
To that end, credible manufacturers ensure Reg 4 compliance approvals for their products which involve mechanical, hygiene and material requirement checks by external test houses and laboratories, testing the products against established ‘Test Code Sheets’.
Mind your language
The biggest myth we must debunk is that there is only one test house to ensure products comply and are therefore certified under Reg 4. The Water Regulations Approval Scheme (WRAS) is the most well-known third-party certification, but two other acceptable approval and certification schemes exist, run by NSF (NSFreg4) and Kiwa UK (KUKreg4).
The industry has been beset by demands that products are “WRAS approved”, which is incorrect and can cause bottlenecks in the approvals system and massive frustration in developing innovative new products.
Put simply; it’s a myth that “WRAS approval” is required. Part of the problem is the language used. Instead, installers and specifiers should be looking for “Reg 4 compliant” products, achieved through approvals by any of the current schemes.
The legal bit
Installers should understand that Reg 4 compliance is enforceable at the point of installation, not at the point of sale. This is a real issue in the industry because it’s not illegal to sell a non-compliant product, but it is unlawful to install one, and it’s up to the water companies to enforce the rules. Therefore, installers have a legal responsibility to ensure installations comply with regulations.
Using approved certified products is the first step and something installers must be aware of.
What to look out for to ensure compliance
From an installer’s point of view, you should look for approvals scheme logos and ensure they have passed the by checking scheme databases. Many manufacturers will also have this information on their websites, but if you’re unsure, speak to the manufacturer.
Suppose you’re considering using a product and you’re unable to see any markings, or there are no indications they have been approved in any marketing literature. In that case, it’s a clear warning sign that you avoid considering them as a fitting.
A product will always have the manufacturer’s logo or abbreviation, one of the test house’s approvals, a certificate to support that product approval, a declaration of conformity, and a UKCA or CE mark. In addition, you can check the product against the named test house database on their website.
A level playing field
The BMA and its members take compliance very seriously. We shout about it, and we’re proud of it. It costs a lot of money for manufacturers to go through the approvals process to ensure product compliance. Naturally, this means a credible manufacturer will have this information available quickly. If in doubt, ask them and check against the website of the approval provider.
It’s disappointing that products exist in the marketplace that has not undergone rigorous testing and are non-compliant with Reg 4. And while we will continue to fight for a level playing field that ensures compliance and trusted performance of products, it will also rely on the knowledge and understanding of the installer community to always seek approved fittings.
The BMA and its partners are bringing exlcusive content during all three days on InstallerSHOW. InstallerSHOW is the UK’s largest event for heat, water, air and energy technology professionals, heating to the NEC Birmingham on 27-29 June 2023. Register for your FREE entry pass today.
