EUSWNC15c Carry out under-pressure water mains connections to live networks

Overview                    

This Standard is about carrying out under-pressure water mains connections.

This involves carrying out and testing under-pressure live connections in compliance with approved procedures to ensure protection of water quality and the integrity of water networks.

This Standard is for water network construction operatives who carry out under-pressure water mains connections.

Performance

You must be able to:      

  1. follow industry guidance, method statements and work instructions for water connections
  2. work in compliance with water quality and hygiene standards at all times
  3. identify the correct pipe from utility asset drawings and by inspecting the work site
  4. select and prepare equipment and components in line with organisational procedures
  5. pressure test in line with method statements, work instructions and organisational procedures
  6. operate under-pressure drilling equipment in compliance with manufacturer’s instructions
  7. check for leaks and connections in line with organisational procedures
  8. check coupons from drills are retained when dismantling drills
  9. remove excess air from systems in accordance with industry guidance
  10. flush in line with work instructions and within agreed timescales
  11. ensure work practice conforms to safe working procedures at all times
  12. use industry recognised methods to test fittings
  13. seek advice regarding any work that cannot be done to specified standards from appropriate people
  14. inform water companies when connections are complete using approved procedures
  15. complete connection documentation in line with organisational procedures
  16. provide completed work documentation in line with organisational procedures

Knowledge and understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. water company Design and Construction Specifications (DCS) and organisational procedures for under-pressure operations to live networks and testing under pressure drill and fittings
  2. how to interpret utility asset drawings, method statements and work instructions
  3. how to observe street furniture, surface boxes and other indicators of pipe location
  4. equipment and tools required for under-pressure mains connections and how to select, prepare, use and dismantle them
  5. the role, importance of and procedures for pressure testing, flushing and removing excess air from systems
  6. approved types of under-pressure connection and jointing procedures
  7. hygiene procedures related to ensuring the integrity and cleanliness of water supplies and the importance of personal hygiene
  8. relevant health and safety legislation including types and use of personal protective equipment (PPE)
  9. approved signals, signs and barriers for securing and making the work area safe
  10. company procedures and lines of responsibility for clarifying instructions, seeking advice and updating on progress
  11. organisational documentation requirements and how to complete and store them