The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS)

The Water Fittings Regulations are national requirements for the design, installation and maintenance of plumbing systems, water fittings and water-using appliances. Their purpose is to prevent misuse, waste, undue consumption or erroneous measurement of water and, most importantly, to prevent contamination of drinking water.

They replace the former Water Supply Byelaws which each water supplier has administered for similar purposes for many years. It is important that you know about and understand WRAS regulations, especially if you are using washing machines in a commercials setting such as care home, or veterinary practice.

Category 5 Fluids
The main category that you will need to know about is WRAS Category 5 fluids. These are fluids that WRAS see as carrying a significant health risk.  This means that if you are a  nursing home, veterinary practice or in the NHS and washing uniforms, fabrics and bedding that have been soiled, then you need to make sure that the washing machines or plumbing you are using comply with WRAS guidance.

To comply with WRAS guidelines your washing machine or plumbing must provide adequate back flow protection to ensure that waste water cannot flow back and contaminate the fresh water supply.

WRAS Links

• WRAS Scheme – How it Operates
• WRAS Scheme Video

Are you WRAS Compliant?
If you are not sure that the washing machine or plumbing supply you currently have in place is WRAS compliant, just call us on 0800 652 5692 and we will let you know if you are WRAS compliant and if not,  what you need to do to ensure that you are.