IOW - 166

SPRING2010 ISSUE166

IN THIS ISSUE: THE FUTURE OF THE WATER INDUSTRY INNOVATION IN PIPELINE TECHNOLOGY WATER EFFICIENCY WATER QUALITY 1 INSTITUTE OF WATER JOURNAL

CONTENTS

Introduction I am delighted to introduce this issue of the Journal, although this is tinged with a sense of sadness given that my two year tenure as President concludes at the Belfast AGM in May. The last two years have gone astonishingly fast, yet so much has been achieved by the Gateshead team, and the Areas with the support of you the members.

The most obvious visible change is the change of name and although this is a visible demonstration of our fresh approach, there is far more that has gone on and is still going on under the surface. In particular, achievements have included negotiation to ensure short term continuation of the IWEX exhibition; appointment of our patrons Barbara Frost and Pamela Taylor; enhancements to our website; the development of a mentoring programme; re-registration with the Engineering Council and the Society for the Environment (both with flying colours) and a full market review which has culminated in our “Water Futures Programme”. This latter initiative will be described in more detail at the Belfast Conference, but I am particularly excited and proud to have been part of its development to date.

Before moving onto the Journal itself, I would like to express my personal thanks for the last two years to Simon Bennett, as Chairman, to Sam Phillips as Vice President and most particularly to Lynn Cooper and the team in Gateshead. I would like to take this opportunity to wish Sam Phillips the very best of luck for his year as President and to welcome Nick Ellins, Deputy Chief Executive of the Customer Council for Water as Vice President.

I don’t want to spoil the Journal for you, but once again it is my privilege to have seen the articles in advance and to congratulate all of you who have provided the articles and features and to Lyndsey Gilmartin for making it happen. This Journal includes excellent articles across a wide spectrum of our industry, including a thought provoking paper on investing in skills from David Hellier of EU Skills which reminds me that our day job must never get in the way of making sure that our people are trained and ready for the task ahead. Also included is a paper from Martin Ballard, one of our strongest supporters, who has put together a real good read on flood risk partnership and I was particularly interested in the challenge that Martin alludes to where funding work that they need to carry out may not be included in the asset base (will you tell me how you square this one Martin?!). Jörgen Jönsson from the WRc has put together a highly informative assessment of how to deal with emerging contaminants in water supply which improved my education considerably.

Along with these and other key articles, regular news of the Institute, member news and area news, the Journal is a really good read and I commend it to you.

I hope to see many friends in Belfast. It is going to be a great Conference as always and I am really looking forward to it. In the meantime, have a great Spring.

Jack Carnell Institute of Water President

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Features

14-15 18-20

Traffic Management Act

Surface Water and Flood Management

21 The Future of the Water Industry 26-27 44-45 50-51

Have Your Say Water Efficiency Water Quality

Regulars

4-6

8-9 10-12 59-67

News in Brief Members Update Engineering News Area News

Next Issue 2010 Conference Report Drilling and Tapping Championship Results Environmental Innovation

Institute of Water HQ: 4 Carlton Court, Team Valley, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE11 0AZ Website: www.instituteofwater.org.uk President: Jack Carnell Chairman: Simon Bennett Chief Executive: Lynn Cooper Editorial, Marketing & Events Manager: Lyndsey Gilmartin Tel: 0191 422 0088 Fax: 0191 422 0087 Email: lyndsey@instituteofwater.org.uk Advertising: John Neilson Tel: 0191 478 83 00 Email: john.neilson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk Designed and produced by: Distinctive Publishing Tel: 0191 478 83 00 Email: production@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

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Setting the standard: Staff at Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water, including former Managing Director Tony Cooke (front left) celebrate the company achieving Customer Service Excellence.

New standard recognises customer service excellence Outstanding customer service has landed Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water (BWHW) a new government accolade.

It has become one of the first water companies in England and Wales to be awarded the government standard, Customer Service Excellence.

An independent assessor analysed the way BWHW dealt with customers including: • Spending time in customer services • Listening to calls • Accompanying a field inspector on his rounds The company’s special care services for vulnerable or disadvantaged customers came in for particular praise.

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Customer Service Excellence is the successor to the government’s Charter Mark scheme and recognises excellence in public services. BWHW was awarded a Charter Mark for ten years in succession.

to them all. Their success is richly deserved."

Tony Cooke, BWHW’s (now former) Managing Director, said: "This is a great achievement and shows that being a monopoly does not mean bad service.

Last year Ofwat ranked BWHW as the top performing water company for service delivery in England and Wales.

“Our staff at all levels, and in all areas, go the extra mile to provide as caring and as personal a service as possible. I am very proud and grateful

The company achieved its best ever performance by scoring 287 points - out of a maximum 288 - in the regulator’s annual overall performance assessment.

BWHW supplies water to about half a million people across Dorset, West Hampshire and part of Wiltshire.

NEWSINBRIEF

New Joint Venture to Deliver Scottish Water Capital Investment Scottish Water and its partners have completed the signing of the formal contract which will launch its new joint venture project delivery arm for the 2010 to 2015 investment period.

The new Scottish Water Solutions, a joint venture company bringing together Scottish Water with Veolia Water UK Plc, Laing O'Rourke Infrastructure Ltd and Jacobs UK Ltd, will deliver in excess of £450 million of Scottish Water's new Capital Investment Programme, which itself is one of the largest in the UK water industry at £2.5 Billion.

Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Climate Change Stewart Stevenson said: "This is the beginning of another chapter in the Scottish Water success story which demonstrates how public ownership has been good for both it and its customers, with average household bills in Scotland being less than the average bill in England and Wales.

"I welcome this new joint venture which will enable Scottish Water - which plays a vital role in protecting public health, improving the environment and enabling development - to roll out its new investment programme and further support Scotland's economic recovery."

It is the aim of this new investment programme to continue that good work and put Scottish Water on a par with the best in the UK water industry.

Scottish Water Solutions will be led by Chief Operating Officer, Nigel Earnshaw, who has been seconded from his role as Director for Veolia Water Scotland. With the launch of the new venture he said: "We are delighted that Scottish Water has put their trust in us to deliver a substantial part of their capital programme and we look forward to working in partnership with them to improve the water services infrastructure for the benefit of Scottish Water customers."

An Early Start agreement has already been entered into following the "Preferred Bidder" stage of the agreement. This has enabled the partners to start development work on the projects and this will in turn help Scottish Water to mitigate the historic dip in investment normally associated with the start of large scale delivery programmes. This will also help contractors and equipment suppliers by keeping order volumes reasonably stable.

Geoff Aitkenhead, Scottish Water's Asset Management Director and Solutions' chairman said:

"Work that Scottish Water promoted in the Early Start programme has enabled us to clearly define the programme of works to be delivered by Solutions and this initiative has played a significant part in allowing us to continue delivering tangible benefits to our customers."

During the 2010-2015 delivery plan Scottish Water's £2.5 Billion investment will continue to focus on driving up performance in drinking water quality and protecting the natural environment, along with service improvements such as reducing interruptions to supply.

The joint venture will be central to delivering on these objectives.

Steve Hollingshead, Laing O'Rourke's Managing Director, Infrastructure Services said: "We are of course delighted to embark upon this investment programme across the country with our partners within Scottish Water Solutions, and look forward to serving each and every community quickly and efficiently."

That was a feeling reiterated by Jacobs Group Vice President Bob Duff: "Jacobs is very excited to be part of the new Solutions and the opportunity to further our relationship with Scottish Water."

Each of the delivery partners will play a key part in the leadership of the new venture, taking a principal role in Solutions day to day operation.

Geoff Aitkenhead concluded: "These joint venture companies have been chosen for their expertise and experience in each of their chosen fields. This is a partnership with an exciting blend of the right skills and brings best practice from the private sector to bear on the delivery of public water and waste water treatment infrastructure. We are delighted that the new Scottish Water Solutions partners will be at the forefront of delivering capital efficiency.

"It is the key to the success of this new investment programme that we have shared objectives with our partners. It is also important that we clearly understand how we will meet the efficiency challenge using leading edge delivery practices and that our new investment programme gets off to a good start."

Southern Water Backs Bid To Reduce Carbon Southern Water is taking part in an innovative environmental scheme to reduce its carbon footprint. Called the Carbon Reduction Commitment Energy Efficiency Scheme (CRC), the Government initiative introduces strict carbon limits in a bid to cut carbon dioxide emissions and reduce energy consumption.

The CRC covers the whole of the water industry along with 5,000 other businesses across the UK including supermarkets, government departments, large local authorities and universities. To qualify for the scheme, participants must have used more than six gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity during 2008, enough to power six-million 100 watt lightbulbs for ten hours.

Southern Water’s annual consumption was 385 GWh, mainly due to the high energy costs associated with pumping 468 million litres of water and treating 1,300 million litres of wastewater every day.

All of the companies involved in the scheme have to buy credits at the beginning of each year for the energy they want to use in the following 12 months. Southern Water’s credits will cost about £3 million.

At the end of each year, a league table is produced based on each company’s performance in managing their carbon emissions relative to others in the scheme.

Based on that performance, companies can get a proportion of the money back.

The company has gained the Carbon Trust Standard accreditation for increasing the amount of renewable energy it produces, for improving the efficiency of its operations and for improving the way emissions are measured and reported.

It is also installing 2,000 intelligent electricity meters at sites to more accurately monitor energy consumption and help identify ways of improving efficiency.

The Government hopes the scheme, which will be monitored and audited by the Environment Agency, will save 4.4 million tonnes of CO2 each year.

Martin Ross, Southern Water’s Carbon Reduction Manager, said: “We have already made good progress in managing and measuring our carbon footprint and will continue to focus on this important area with the CRC scheme.”

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NEWSINBRIEF

Wessex Water shortlisted for green award Wessex Water is in the running to represent the UK at the European business awards for the environment in Brussels next year.

The water company is among the winners in the Green Apple Environment Awards – one of the major international environmental awards schemes and a feeder into the European Awards.

It was shortlisted after judges recognised the success of the company’s partners programme which has supported wildlife organisations across its region including Wiltshire, Somerset and Dorset.

Since 1998 the initiative has helped to restore rivers, protect species under threat and tackle diffuse pollution as well as funding other conservation projects.

Ruth Barden, of Wessex Water’s environmental regulation team, said everyone was delighted when they heard the company was among those to be shortlisted.

She said: “The Partners Programme has been hugely successful and as well as providing financial support it has involved Wessex Water staff working hands on with conservation projects across the region.

“This has ranged from restoring sections of the River Avon in Wiltshire to its natural shape allowing fish populations to grow, to encouraging farmers to put up nest boxes to increase tree sparrow numbers.

“Many of the environmental projects have been welcomed by local communities and would have struggled to get off the ground if it wasn’t for the support from Wessex Water.”

The Green Apple Awards, which are now in their 16th year, attracted more than 500 nominations this year.

A river bank being created as part of the Wessex Water Partners Programme, which impressed the Green Apple Environment Awards judges.

They are organised by The Green Organisation, an environmental group dedicated to recognising, rewarding and promoting environmental best practice around the world.

Wessex Water will be presented with its Green Apple Award at the Tower of London in June when it will also find out if it has secured the top award.

Optimise Water (LLP) appointed for prestigious Thames Water AMP5 contract Optimise, the joint venture between J Murphy and Sons, Barhale Construction plc, Clancy Docwra Ltd and MWH, has been awarded two of Thames Water’s prestigious AMP5 contracts with a potential combined value of around £500 million over the next five years.

The Optimise Joint Venture has been awarded the contracts to undertake capital works on the network infrastructure for both clean and waste water, covering the Thames Valley and North London regions. The scope of works will include continuing to replace London's worn-out

Victorian water mains, upgrading sewers to protect customers' homes from sewer flooding and installing asset monitoring equipment.

The signing marks the start of the new five-year regulatory period, (AMP5) April 2010 to March 2015, during which time Thames Water will invest nearly £5 billion across London and the Thames Valley.

Optimise will be responsible for whole lifecycle programme management and the provision of design and build solutions to Thames Water.

This award represents a considerable scope of

work and will require close working liaison with a number of Agencies, Authorities, Regulatory bodies and the general public for successful delivery. The contracts represent a major undertaking and possibly one of the largest and most varied water infrastructure programmes to be carried out in the UK. Ian Noble, Optimise Contract Director, commented: “Signing these contracts represents a huge accomplishment for the team. We now are a key part of the Thames Water team helping deliver the biggest ever AMP capital programme.”

Water Distribution Maintenance Service Contract Announced Fastflow, the utility infrastructure services provider, has won the clean water contract for the Asset Management Period 5 with Northumbrian Water commencing April 2010.

The contract safeguards over 250 jobs in the North East of England and is likely to be worth approximately £200m over a 10 year period.

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Fastflow will become Northumbrian Water’s sole Clean Water Contractor with responsibility for carrying out water network rehabilitation/renewal work, new connections, repair and maintenance, reinstatement and metering works.

Neil Armstrong, owner and Chief Executive Officer, believes the business is now well positioned to continue to deliver excellent service to current clients and to develop other revenue streams through the company’s network rehabilitation, trunk mains cleaning and smart systems capabilities.

sustainable design, optimum value Scott Wilson is one of the foremost consultancies in the provision of water and wastewater related services. Our worldwide network of 80 offices provides clients with access to our global expertise, delivered through local and responsive teams.

For further information please contact Alex Parkin on 01256 310 690 or water@scottwilson.com

www.scottwilson.com

CASH Rewards for Recruiting Institute of Water Members To encourage Institute of Water members to sign up friends and colleagues so they too can enjoy the benefits that the Institute offers, cash rewards of £75, £50 and £25 are given out four times each year.

Mike Webb, FIWater

Winners of the Spring Awards are: £75 Keith Edwards for introducing Simon Dodd, Gas Transportation Co Ltd £50 Kathy Auld for introducing Colin Duguid, Scottish Water £25 Natasha McMonagle for introducing Lynn Martin, Northern Ireland Water Don’t miss your chance to win! Each time you recruit a new member they will enter your name onto the Membership application form which asks which member introduced them to the Institute of Water. These contact names are recorded and four times during the year, three names will be chosen at random to receive £75, £50 and £25. The more new members you introduce the more times your name will be entered in the quarterly draw. Winners’ names are printed quarterly in this Journal.

NEW DESIGNATORY LETTERS FOR INSTITUTE OF WATER MEMBERS Following our change of name to Institute of Water, Corporate Members are now entitled to use the following letters after their name: MIWater (Full Members) FIWater (Fellow Members); and HIWater (Honorary Members) The former designatory letters AIWO, MIWO, FIWO and HIWO are now invalid.

Corporate Members (the collective term which covers Full, Fellow and Honorary) have had their competence assessed by a process of peer review, are bound by our Code of Conduct and are committed to continuing professional development.

Fellow Membership is awarded to people who are or have been in an eminent position in the Institute of Water or in the industry or who have attained an exceptional level of proficiency in their field. Fellow Members are in most cases expected to remain active and make a significant contribution to the Institute of Water or the industry for years to come.

Honorary Membership is our highest grade of membership, reserved for members who have given exceptional service to the Institute of Water.

There is no assessment required for Associate or Student Membership so there are no designatory letters for members in these categories. If you have been an Associate Member for some time, why not apply for Full Membership? Depending on background and experience you may also be eligible to pursue a professional qualification.

Visit our website www.instituteofwater.org.uk, under ‘Membership’ for more information.

New certificates are now available to existing Full, Fellow and Associate Members at no cost: simply ring 0191 422 0088 or email info@instituteofwater.org.uk to request one.

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Richard Graty, Eastern Area President, presents Mike Webb with his Fellow Member certificate Mike joined the industry in 1972 as a trainee with West Suffolk Water Board, later to become part of Anglian Water Authority. He left Anglian in 1985 for Lee Valley Water Company as Distribution Superintendent before becoming Operations Manager, then Water Quality Manager/ Network Manager for Three Valleys Water – now Veolia Water.

Mike is one of the recognised industry plumbing and fittings regulations specialists and works with the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme, WRc and Water UK on these matters.

Mike became a member in 1995 and shortly after joined Eastern Area Committee where he has served unstintingly for 15 years, including two terms as Area Chair.

Mike is a keen champion of bringing new young members and has worked hard to provide opportunities for young graduates to use Committee membership as part of their professional development. Mike has recently been elected to represent Eastern Area on the Area Forum and is looking forward to his new role.

MEMBERSUPDATE

Tony Cooke, HIWater Past-President Tony Cooke is our first HIWater.

Tony became a member within a few months of joining the industry as MD of Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water in 1991 and has been an active member of our South West Area Committee for over 15 years.

Tony was Area President from 1997 to 2000 and was instrumental in ensuring the Annual Conference in Bournemouth in 1998 was both memorable and successful. Tony was elected National President in 2003 and chaired the Audit Committee from 2005 to 2007 after stepping down from our board of directors.

During his 19 years at Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water Tony has played an influential role within the water industry and the Institute of Water. He retired on 9 April and vacated his role on our South West Area Committee in March but remains an active trustee of Utilities & Service Industries Training (USIT) and Senior Independent Director of Jersey Water. Tony’s achievements are too numerous to mention but there can be no doubt he has given and will continue to give exceptional service to the Institute of Water.

On learning of his award Tony said it would be an understatement to say he was surprised, humbled and honoured. Tony is sorry he won’t be in Belfast for this year’s Conference as he will be taking a post-retirement holiday in the Scottish Highlands. We wish Tony all the best on his retirement and will be thinking of Tony and Cheryl when we gather in Belfast.

Tony Cooke receives a piece of Bristol Blue Glass from South West Area President Ian Walker to commemorate his Honorary Membership

60 SECOND INTERVIEW Each issue we will be featuring a 60 second interview with a well known figure from the Water Industry. In this issue, Maureen Taylor Institute of Water Chair and Training Delivery Manager at Dwr Cymru Welsh Water takes the hot seat.

The best part of my job is currently working in a project environment which is very busy, with timelines that are like shifting sand! I love being busy and I also find project life quite exhilarating and very varied.

I joined the Institute of Water because I was encouraged to become a member by colleagues. I had only joined Welsh Water the year previously and was still finding my feet. It looked like fun and it seemd a good way of integrating more into the industry.

Membership has definitely lived up to those initial feelings.

My failsafe way to de-stress is to do some exercise. I love Salsa dancing. The dancing and the music make you forget everything that is stressful.

I do my bit for the planet by recycling on a daily basis.

If I could be anyone for a day, I would be Nelson Mandela. He is such an amazing and charismatic person and the way he changed South Africa and its views on apartheid is simply awe inspiring.

The best advice I have ever been given is: ‘It’s very nice to be important but it is far more important to be nice.’

I’ve learnt the hard way that life does not always run to plan.

I am the Institute of Water Chair because I am very passionate about the Institute of Water. I love meeting new people. I have made so many friends through being a member and

I have learnt so much through area events. My aim is to encourage others to do the same and fully utilise everything the Institute of Water has to offer through membership.

My proudest moments were too numerous to list... I have two daughters and three grandchildren so as you can imagine I have very many proud moments.

My favourite tipple is gin and tonic.

My last holiday destination was to Cyprus.

I believe the biggest challenge for the water industry is trying to continually improve services to customers whilst being restricted by the recent Ofwat determination. There is a lot of hard work ahead for everyone.

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Engineering the Future A Vision for the Future of UK Engineering In the run-up to the General Election, eight of the UK’s leading engineering organisations launched a comprehensive call for action to ensure that engineering makes the maximum contribution to solving Britain’s biggest challenges: the economy, the environment, education, infrastructure and public services.

This call for action followed a joint letter from the Presidents of the professional bodies urging the political parties to grasp the fact that engineering holds the key to creating a new, broader economic base.

Lord Browne of Madingley, President of the Royal Academy of Engineering, said “The economic impact of engineering stretches far beyond the measurable output of factory production lines. From agriculture to IT, and from manufacturing to finance, engineering solutions are deeply embedded in every area of economic activity in the UK. Engineers will sit at the heart of efforts to rebuild a balanced economy based on a greater diversity of industries.

Engineering solutions will also help to address the grand challenges facing society in the 21st century, including poverty, improved access to food and water and combating climate change.”

The overarching theme is that the UK is not fully leveraging the potential of engineering and that radical change is required. Government must play a central role and therefore detailed policy recommendations are provided on five dimensions. These recommendations are partyneutral and discussions are taking place with each of the main political parties as they prepare their manifestos for the upcoming general election.

The manifesto highlights five key policy priorities for government: 1. Sustaining and encouraging investment in the skills for the future: the high-value, technology-based industries of the future

demand a more scientifically literate society and a much greater proportion of schoolleavers with qualifications in science, technology, engineering and maths, as well as fully-funded university engineering departments. With major skills shortages already clear in technician roles, there is also an urgent need to improve supply of apprenticeships and relevant careers information in schools and colleges.

2. How to make the UK leader in low carbon technology: technology must make a major contribution to achieving the UK’s climate change objectives (of an 80% cut in CO2 emissions by 2050) and in doing so can rebuild sections of Britain’s manufacturing base. The current regulatory framework provides inadequate certainty for investment, especially with regard to the future price of carbon, and government should adopt a more interventionist position, also with regard to research funding for low carbon technology.

3. Ways of capitalising on the value of the UK science and engineering research base: there is a vibrant research base in the UK which has benefited from public research funding in the last decade and provides a reserve of ideas, technology and intellectual property which can boost the country’s industrial base. Despite promising initiatives, transfer of knowledge into the private sector is too limited and R&D incentives in the private sector lag behind other major economies – this should be the focus of future government policy.

4. Harnessing the power of public spending to encourage innovation: with a £220 billion annual budget for goods and services, government is the largest customer in the country. Best practice procurement would create the opportunity for more innovative solutions and give a better chance to small and medium-sized enterprises (who win only one in six central government contracts).

As well as lowering costs for government, such reforms can harness innovation and “pull” emerging technologies into the wider economy, as seen in the US. 5. Making greater use of engineering advice in government policymaking: a recent House of Commons select committee report on engineering called for more effective engagement between policy-makers and the engineering profession. This is especially important at early stages before policy direction is set. Greater recruitment of trained and experienced engineers into the civil service as well as more systematic use of private sector engineering expertise would be valuable reforms.

“Engineering the future of the UK – a vision for the future of UK engineering” is published by Engineering the future, a collective body made up of the Engineering Council, EngineeringUK, the Institution of Civil Engineers, the Institution of Chemical Engineers, the Institution of Engineering and Technology, the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, the Institute of Physics, and the Royal Academy of Engineering.

“From agriculture to IT, and from manufacturing to finance, engineering solutions are deeply embedded in every area of economic activity in the UK”

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ENGINEERINGNEWS

Rise in Registrations End of year registration statistics issued by the Engineering Council showed a significant increase in the number of practising engineers recognising the value of gaining professional qualifications.

During 2009 the number of new registrations for Chartered Engineer (CEng) was 9% higher than in 2008, while new Incorporated Engineer (IEng) registrations have grown by 10%. In addition, there has been a net increase in the total number of Engineering Technician (EngTech) registrants for the fifth consecutive year.

Andrew Ramsay, the Engineering Council’s Chief Executive said: “We’ve noticed a surge in enquiries about registration over the past year, and are pleased that our figures show how many of these have been successfully registered. No doubt the results are in part due to the competitive job market, as well as industry recognition of both the added status and the importance of being professionally qualified.

“We have invested in spreading the word about how professional registration improves job security and career prospects, and is open to any competent practising engineer, with different pathways available.”

SPECIAL OFFER TO PROMOTE ENGINEERING REGISTRATION Don’t forget we are currently waiving the Professional Review fee for Engineering Registration. This is a saving of £164.50 for CEng or IEng and £58.75 for EngTech.

The offer applies to all applications received before 30th June so don’t delay: enquire today!

The benefits of registering with the Engineering Council as a Chartered Engineer (CEng), Incorporated Engineer (IEng) or Engineering Technician (EngTech) include:

Andrew concluded:

n Identifying you as having competences that employers value

“We are confident that new registration numbers will continue to rise throughout 2010, and are working closely with the professional engineering institutions to ensure that applicants receive the necessary assistance with completing the registration process.”

n Indicating that your competence and commitment to professionalism have been assessed by other engineering professionals

REGISTRATION OF ENGINEERS AND TECHNICIANS RECEIVES GOVERNMENT BACkING The Engineering Council has welcomed proposals

by Lord Sainsbury’s Technician Working Group for the creation of a Technician Council to promote registration of Engineering Technicians (EngTech) and Incorporated Engineers (IEng) – and their equivalents in science, health and ICT. The proposals were requested by Lord Mandelson in the ‘Skills for Growth’ White Paper in November 2009. The Government had recognised that intermediate skills were inadequately represented in the working population and insufficient status was awarded to engineering, science and health professionals at this level and above.

Andrew Ramsay, Chief Executive of the Engineering Council – himself a member of Lord Sainsbury’s Working Group developing the proposals - said: “This initiative provides evidence that there is at last a real understanding by Government and the civil service of the need to accord significant status to the UK’s Technicians. We also welcome the endorsement of the framework we have developed for the engineering profession for assessment of professional standards of competence.”

n Confirming that your commitment to professionalism is underwritten by the support of a Professional Engineering Institution licensed by the Engineering Council n International recognition of your qualifications

Registrants often find that: n It is easier to gain promotion or a new job n Their pay compares favourably with nonregistered engineers and increasingly against other qualified professionals n They have greater influence within their organisation and industry n They have access to a network of similarly qualified and experienced experts in their field - through their Institution n Their engineering credentials are respected in most parts of the world n Their employers benefit as, increasingly, tendering or post-tender contract compliance requires key members of the project team to have professional registration

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ENGINEERINGNEWS

Two More Members Become Registered Engineers Sean Barry

Gareth Thompson,

IEng, MIWater

CEng, MIWater

Project Manager, Northumbrian Water

Senior Engineer, Hyder Consulting

Sean has over 20 years’ experience in the water industry, starting as an Engineering Technician with Easington District Council where he was involved in drainage, highways and reclamation. He continued in drainage when he transferred to Northumbrian Water as Technical Support Officer, giving technical advice, dealing with problems relating to the public sewerage system and pollution incidents and liaising with their Capital Investment team.

Gareth graduated with a BSc (Hons) in Civil Engineering from the University of Glamorgan in 2001. Shortly after, he joined Hyder Consulting as part of a successful sewerage design team involved in Welsh Water’s water quality improvements. Gareth has worked on drainage area plans and providing design and construction support for numerous catchments in West Wales throughout AMP3 and AMP4.

Sean joined IWO in 1989 and within four years had attained Ordinary and Higher National Diplomas in Civil Engineering. In 1999 he transferred to his current role of Project Manager in the Capital Investment Department at NWL. In May last year Sean enquired about IEng Registration. Although the exemplifying qualifications are now degree level, Sean was fortunate enough to have attained his HND in 1993 when this was the accepted level for IEng. Sean submitted his report at the end of November last year and was interviewed in January. He scored well in every aspect, particularly on the application of engineering knowledge and understanding to problem-solving. So much so that Sean’s assessors deemed his outstanding skill to be ‘solutioneering’!

Gareth joined IWO in 2007 and the following year enquired about CEng Registration. Although his BSc is only accredited for IEng, Gareth felt he had sufficient experience at the right level to apply for Chartered Engineer. After an initial assessment based on a detailed cv our assessors concurred and advised Gareth to take the Technical Report option. This is one option for people who don’t have exemplifying academic qualifications and requires two reports and two interviews, generally held on the same day. Gareth submitted his reports in September last year and was interviewed in January.

Gareth is our second member to take advantage of the Technical Report option and although the process is likely to take longer than the standard route, aspiring engineers should not feel inhibited by their academic qualifications.

Continuing Demand For Engineers Across The Utilities Sector The latest annual Skills Assessment Report for the UK’s gas, power, waste management and water industries reports current skills shortages ranging from 14% in Northern Ireland to 21.8% in Wales; this is in line with the all-industry skills shortages.

There are a number of common drivers across the sector: n The ageing workforce is a key issue driving the need to replenish the workforce n The image of the industries acts as a barrier to recruitment

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n The push for greater efficiencies together with the low carbon imperative is driving the need for new technologies n The development and deployment of new technologies along with the need to replace ageing infrastructure is driving the need for higher level skills, particularly engineers

Energy & Utility Skills, the Sector Skills Council for the gas, power, waste management and water industries is working in collaboration with water companies to understand and plan for the skills requirements for the next 15 years. You can read more in the article

by David Hellier on page 21.

DANIEL

Rolldown

Subterra’s Rolldown opens up Thames Water’s Stratford Box Thames Water Utilities Ltd have recently realised a highly innovative solution for augmenting raw water supplies in East London, in which Subterra’s award-winning Rolldown close-fit PE lining system was chosen to play a key role in its practical implementation on account of Rolldown’s unique characteristics.

The new Stratford International Station, located adjacent to the 2012 Olympic Site in East London, is housed in a box-like substructure, affectionately known as “The Stratford Box”. This is prevented from floatation on the pervasive groundwater in that area by a system of borehole dewatering points. Previously, this groundwater was discharged direct to the River Lea. Thames Water recognised the potential for this otherwise unused resource to augment its raw water supplies in London, thereby relieving pressure on the need to develop new resources to cope with the ever-increasing demands of the capital for clean water.

The key problem was how to get this new resource to the nearest treatment works through what is a densely urbanised area, and where the few intervening green open spaces are jealously guarded. Laying a new main by conventional trenching was quickly discounted on the grounds of cost and disruption.

The solution finally chosen was to utilise an old abandoned 12” cast iron twin sludge pumping main, some 3.3km in length laid along the tow path in a linear park next to the Lee River Navigation. This pipeline ran from the Olympic Village to a former waterworks site at Lea Bridge Road. Here, an existing connection could be used to take the new supply to the storage that feeds Thames Water’s Coppermills Water Treatment Works.

n Negligible disruption to local businesses, commerce and the construction works on the Olympic Site, and to the public’s enjoyment of the recreational and sporting facilities of the Lea Valley Park, the Hackney Marshes and associated Nature Reserves along the canalside pipeline route, thanks to the long insertion lengths possible (maximum 510 metres on this project), which minimised the number of insertion points; n Minimum environmental impact on Lea Valley Park, Hackney Marsh and local nature reserves, thanks to the minimum dig method deployed.

The Rolldown PE liner installation comfortably met the planned construction schedule and was brought in within the project cost estimate. Overall, the cost of the Rolldown close-fit lining upgrade solution was only some 20% of the estimated costs for installing the same facilities by conventional open-cut trenching methods. Importantly, these valuable supply augmentation works had no impact on the main construction programme of the Olympic Village development. The result is a rehabilitated pipeline that will supply the maximum possible throughput with a guaranteed design life of 50 years.

Rolldown Facts

Following a critical review of the options for rehabilitating the existing 12” sludge mains, Subterra’s Rolldown technology was selected as the clear favourite, since it could be used to insert a close-fitting, 315mm OD SDR 26 PE-100 fully pressure rated liner pipe into the existing pipeline in long lengths, and at the lowest possible insertion loads.

Some 450km of Rolldown close-fit PE liner pipes have been installed in gas, water, sewerage and industrial pipelines in the UK and throughout the World.

In Subterra’s Rolldown process, conventional PE pressure pipe is pushed through a series of profiled rollers to reduce its diameter by some 10%. The reduced PE liner diameter is maintained without the application of any external force. The processed liner pipe can then be inserted into the prepared host main as for a conventional sliplining project. The ends of the inserted liner pipe are then sealed and the liner pressurised with cold water to bring it to a close fit with the host pipe.

The longest single installation “pull” of Rolldown to date has been 1,500 metres of 250mm diameter PE pipe.

Subterra’s Rolldown system conferred many significant benefits in this project, including:n Minimum reduction of flow capacity, thanks to close fitting liner; n Minimum risk of disturbance to the canal structure, thanks to the limited number (9) of small excavations required to insert PE liners; n Significantly reduced carbon footprint – trenchless solution with minimum numbers of openings meant less spoil to tip, less fresh aggregate for reinstatement, and fewer associated vehicle movements;

Longest Pull

Key Project Data Client: Thames Water Utilities Ltd Main Contractor: J Murphy & Sons Ltd Specialist PE Lining Contractor: Subterra Liner Installation System: Rolldown Close Fit Structural PE Host Pipe Diameter: 12” Cast Iron Liner Pipe: 315mm OD SDR26 PE100 Lining Length: 3300 metres Maximum Individual Installation Length: 510 metres Duration of Lining Works: 18 weeks Subterra is a wholly owned subsidiary of Daniel.

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Causing Disruption again!

By Simon Bennett, Street Works Manager, Bristol Water and Institute of Water Chairman

It’s only two years since the introduction of the Traffic Management Act (TMA), but political pressure and more legislation continue to rain down onto the utilities. Past National Chair Simon Bennett looks at the outputs of last October’s Street Works summit and what potentially will be coming our way!

The Rt. Hon. Sadiq Khan’s Street Works summit was held in October 2009. The Minister of State for Transport in his introduction to the report made tackling the unacceptable disruption caused by street and road works his number one priority and the summit produced the following outcomes: 1. A proposed increase in overrun charges to a maximum of £25k/day Presently (April 2010) out for consultation, this fine is aimed at key strategic routes. There is an incentive to get the work done on time!

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2. Revised specification for the reinstatement of openings in the highway Issued on 1 April 2010, reinstatements are an area that utilities can make huge gains by addressing the root causes of failures. Also you may have heard in the recent press of a proposed pothole tax on utilities (£45 per 1m2 of reinstatement). But why should the utilities pay when local authorities have been under-funded for many years on highway maintenance?

ou

FEATURE:THE TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT ACT 3. Revised Inspections Regulations and Code of Practice to make sure poor performers have a greater inspection burden Presently out for consultation and includes increasing the inspection burden on poor performers.

4. Lane rental Based on the Camden and Middlesbrough trials, lane rental would cost the utilities in the region of £750 million per year if introduced across the United Kingdom. This should be focussed on the major congested routes only!

5. Revised Safety Code of Practice to become statutory for road works as well as street works This will be very welcome. It’s now time to change some behaviours and attitudes out there towards street works. Safety should always be the number one priority.

6. Produce a good practice guide on improving communications There have already been some major improvements in signing of works with more information and advance warning signage. In London, they have the London Code of Conduct, which includes signage. NJUG would like the rest of the UK to follow suit.

7. Publish advice/support on applications for permit schemes It is clear government want to encourage the take up on permit schemes and will provide advice and assistance to highway authorities. The London permit scheme went live in January 2010 with 19 London boroughs involved. Feedback so far from the highways side has been positive although it was a culture shock to the highways teams to be treated as promoters. Has it allowed the effective management of their largest asset? Time will tell.

The Kent scheme also went live in January. This did include NJUG involvement in its construction and is based on the principle of 80% of the effort on 20% of works that cause 80% of problems. Discounts in permit fees are given to reward good practice and extending working hours is encouraged wherever possible.

Do we need permits? Maybe in some cities, but a lot of the positives could have been achieved by good honest communication and the existing notification system without the added cost of permits (of which we as utility customers pay!)

Further permit schemes in the pipeline include Northampton, Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, Midlands, Merseyside and Anglia.

8. Performance score cards to be assessed as part of regulators’ assessments We need to measure our performance better. Bristol Water has been working closely with its street works software provider EXOR to develop a suite of reports.

This is so it can meet the requirements of the summit, provide evidence to NJUG and government that further legislation is not required and lower risks on fines. (Further information about this project can be read in panel.)

The Department of Transport have been in discussions with OFWAT on bringing a water companies’ street works performance into assessing their efficiency.

Our street works are required to ensure the essential service we provide is maintained. But we need to continue to promote trust and have honest communications with the highway authorities, continually improve our performance and work with government to avoid this constant need for more onerous regulation.

By the time this article is read there could be a new government in power, but one thing is for sure the pressure on utilities and their street works will continue.

RIGHT INFORMATION FOR THE RIGHT PEOPLE Bristol Water has partnered with Exor Corporation to develop the NJUG ‘Executive Dashboard’ reporting tool – a reporting pack under the Information Manager product, to better meet the needs of utility companies across the UK. The dashboard, which currently provides Works Promoters with aggregated high-level executive information, is being extended to enable utilities to better manage their day to day noticing and street works as well as being able to report back monthly performance to the National Joint Utilities Group (NJUG) on core areas of competency and interest.

Bristol Water, the water supply company responsible for providing water to 1.2 million consumers in and around the Bristol area, implemented Exor Street Works in order to meet the Traffic Management Act (TMA) in 2008. Since then, Bristol Water has worked closely with Exor to develop the solution to meet its evolving needs and has become a pioneer in the use of Exor outside of local authorities, as acknowledged by its receipt of NJUG’s partnership award for its work with Daniel Contractors Ltd, BT and Bath & North East Somerset on the A37 road reconstruction near Bristol, (www.njug.org.uk/category/5/pageid/79).

As Simon Bennett explains, “Since the introduction of the Act we have been working hard with stakeholders such as the NJUG to provide a comprehensive insight into street works activity across our region.

On a monthly basis this requires us, along with the other utility companies, to provide 52 separate pieces of performance information to NJUG, who in turn can provide national performance information to government “This information is currently stored in a variety of systems, including Exor, which provides us with a challenge to accurately extract information from a variety of data silos to report back to NJUG. So we sat down with Exor and discussed how we could get full visibility of our assets on the road network without impacting on the reporting criteria set out by NJUG. It was a surprisingly simple process because of the functionality offered by Exor’s Information Manager.”

Exor’s Information Manager helps deliver major changes in efficiencies by enabling works promoters and street authorities to manage and present data in an accessible format, whether it be displaying dashboard indicators, running reports or updating data via the online interface.

Simon continues, “Under the TMA, utilities and their contractors have increasing exposure to financial risk, with fixed penalty notices and Section 74 fines a real threat for those that do not provide accurate information on their street works activities. The new reports available through Information Manager enable us to share information far more effectively and highlight problems far more quickly, enabling us and our contractors to act on potential issues before they become liability items.”

Simon concludes, “Right from the initial implementation, Exor have been highly supportive and responsive to our needs. They understand that the maintenance of our infrastructure is not just a series of one-off events but a continual process involving numerous parties at Bristol Water, Daniel Contractors Ltd and several third-party contractors. The solution they have provided reflects this, providing us not only with full visibility of the current state of our infrastructure but the tools to meet all our partner requirements as well as those set out by government. We are ‘future proofed’ and looking forward to reaping the benefits.”

Bristol Water is due to go live with Information Manager in April 2010.

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Keeping Traffic Moving

Roads and streets are part of the country’s infrastructure and currently there are over 1,226,000 of them listed in the National Street Gazetteer (NSG). Issues such as congestion, capacity planning, street works, accidents, incidents and maintenance can affect them all and has a severe impact on traffic flow.

The NSG is coordinated on behalf of local government by the Improvement and Development Agency. It is the definitive reference system used in the notification process and the coordination of street works as required under the New Roads and Street Works Act (1991). Under this legislation, each highways authority in England and Wales is required to create and maintain its own local street gazetteer and associated street data. These are then compiled into a master index built to British Standard (BS) 7666:2006, the NSG can be accessed by all Statutory Undertakers via the NSG online hub, managed by Intelligent Addressing.

The NSG employs an unambiguous referencing system, using Unique Street Reference Numbers to identify any length of highway, street or road in England and Wales. According to legislation, all publicly maintained streets, prospective publicly maintained streets, as well as private streets are recorded in the NSG. On a monthly basis, 174 highways authorities across England and Wales upload their street gazetteers, along with associated street data, to the NSG hub using an online validation and submission facility. This then enables all statutory undertakers (the utility companies) to download data, and allow them to meet their statutory requirements to provide the appropriate street works notifications on current NSG records.

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Taking advantage of improvements In April 2009, the NSG was updated to a new format (DTF 7.1) enabling highways authorities to record heights, weights and width restrictions, and directions of flow (one way or two way) against individual roads and streets, invaluable for anyone requiring routing information.

The new format, which is compliant with BS7666:2006, also enables closer alignment with the National Land and Property Gazetteer (NLPG), the country’s definitive list of property addresses. Improving both the richness of the data held in the NSG has enabled those involved in road works to consult and coordinate more effectively, reducing inconvenience and congestion.

Intelligent Addressing (IA), the Concessionaire of the NSG, has developed a conversion service for users of the NSG who are unable to import the latest format of the NSG, which from 6th April 2010 was only published in DTF7.1 data format.

Updated versions of the NSG are published on the 2nd working day of each month. The new conversion service gives clients access to the converted data on a dedicated ftp site on the day that the NSG is published. This means that there will be no interruption in supply to organisations that depend on this vital dataset for streetworks information.

INTELLIGENT ADDRESSING

Using the NSG to ease congestion Local authorities across England and Wales are using the NSG in their own businesses to reduce congestion and improve road surfaces.

Following are two examples.

Blackpool

Devon and South Wales

An intelligent map of Blackpool’s roads is at the heart of a project that is transforming highways maintenance and street works in the popular seaside resort. The computer system captures and presents information about day-today changes that may affect Blackpool’s roads and delivers the information via an easy to use web mapping tool to support essential decision making.

Following the worst cold weather conditions for over 30 years, highway authorities across England and Wales are facing huge challenges in repairing newly formed potholes on our roads. The rich information held within the NSG, has greatly simplified this task by assisting the scheduling and communication of necessary repairs.

Residents and visitors to Blackpool can now obtain information about the location, duration and impact of both current and planned road maintenance and improvement projects in and around the resort. Users of the Council website can choose a backdrop of street maps or aerial photography before selecting the information they wish to display and interact with.

The information, based on the NSG, is constantly updated and can be supplemented with safety information, service requests and details from the Council’s asset register. The project won Blackpool Council the 2009 ‘National Street Gazetteer’ Exemplar Award for ‘Most Effective Street Works Integration’.

In Devon the highway authority is mustering its resources to tackle the problem head on with the NSG providing the basis for its planned assault on potholes. Over the next six weeks a specialist team made up of 26 groups of three to five people will take to the streets to inspect Devon’s 8,000 mile long road network. The teams will set out to identify the potholes - each travelling in lightweight vehicles equipped to carry out intermediate repairs on all small potholes.

"We understood that there was a ‘technological disconnect’ between those people who collect and manage data, often using complex software, and those who require information in order to make decisions whether they be senior managers, council members or citizens," commented Will Britain, Principal Engineer at Blackpool Council. "Addressing this divide has resulted in well maintained, easily accessible data creating an information rich resource for the Council, business and the community."

Councillor Maxine Callow, Cabinet Member for Tourism and Regeneration said: "Using the system, staff can determine the impact of planned works and make decisions based on the disruption it may cause. It means that we should not be faced with a situation where diversion routes around one set of works are interrupted by another set of road works unless it is absolutely necessary."

"This new approach to the collection, management and distribution of data has generated a lot of interest from other Councils and even the Department of Transport for the way it allows residents to get the bigger picture of road works across the town. It has also resulted in interest from other organisations including Microsoft, leading academic institutions and received another award from the Department of Transport,” concluded Britain.

The crews are equipped with tablet PCs, GPS location and mobile network cards. The NSG provides the background information on all of the routes identifying every road, its class and its maintenance category. GPS locates the exact position of each pothole on the road which is transmitted back to the routine maintenance system twice a day. The data held in the NSG then helps to determine the priority for larger pothole repairs and permanent repairs for those tackled in the initial campaign.

In South Wales the observations are familiar. "We too have been badly affected by the severe weather and freezing temperatures, with a significant increase in the amount of potholes to be repaired," said Jason Jenkins, Highways Network Manager for the South Wales Highways Authority. "Our maintenance package for inspections, Works orders and Noticing regime now relies on the NSG for categorising the streets and identifying the work locations on Works tickets throughout the authority, so it has become indispensable," continued Jenkins.

Simon Bailey the NSG custodian at Intelligent Addressing said, "The NSG is now being used for the identification and coordination of road and street repairs across England and Wales. Being able to schedule repairs based on road category and then to communicate exact locations to repair crews is a huge time saver and another brilliant example of this essential national dataset at work."

For more information, see www.thensg.org.uk or contact the NSG helpdesk on 020 7747 3502 or helpdesk@intelligent-addressing.co.uk.

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The Heralding of a New Era?

By Martin Ballard, Performance Manager, Anglian Water (Surface Water Management Project Lead)

The Flood and Water Management Bill gained Royal Assent on 8 April, almost three years after the summer floods of 2007 and two years after the Sir Michael Pitt Report. The Act comes into force with cross party and national support to address many areas of surface water and drainage ambiguity that have arose due to evolved legislation.

The Flood and Water Management Act will now address many of these issues, in part, providing accountabilities and responsibilities for the roles of Local Authorities, Inland Drainage Boards, Environment Agency, as well as water companies.

The events of summer 2007 broke inertia in political inaction to consider and address the causal factors of surface water flooding management. The scale of interest and impact from the 2007 flood waters was not new, though the consequences of when and where the events occurred were. The Pitt Report published actions focusing on planning, resilience, mitigation and clear need for accountability. The resulting legislative framework needed to clarify accountabilities and establish responsibilities

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to collaborate, cooperate, work together for the benefit of the communities that we all serve. It has done so.

The Act will implement several key recommendations of the Pitt Review, protect water supplies to consumers and protect community groups from excessive charges for surface water drainage and management. The Act is not without its challenges as a result, none less than the Act’s arrival in a period of significant economic constraint. The financial support from central government for local authorities to fulfil their leadership responsibilities for surface water and flood risk management within their communities and boundaries is needed. As with water companies, local authorities are faced

with significant business plan stretches, and thus working in partnership, understanding the knowledge, experience, resource capability and systems available from partners around the table is essential to gain the most pragmatic and efficient outcome for mutual customers in the communities served.

How many of us though have stood in the front room of a customer’s living room, in wellington boots or waders amid flood waters inundating a family’s home? Dark, gloomy, silt and mud-laden waters inches deep above the floor boards, full of everything that we, as environmental managers and engineers, strife to protect our customers and communities from. Floodwater is full of everything that should not have passed through

FEATURE:Surface Water and Flood Management

images from Lincoln Floods 2007

the front door, through the air bricks or back up the drains into the family home.

Too many of us no doubt and not one of us would envy doing so. However, with the Act arrives the clear accountabilities for event planning and emergency response leadership (local authority), strategic risk and planning support (Environment Agency), as well as responsibilities to co-operate and provide surface water asset data and information (water companies, IDBs and key stakeholders as appropriate, eg Highways Agency).

Despite the legislation, unless all stakeholders meet and work rapidly in the spirit of the Act, ensuring that we can work efficiently and effectively together in pragmatic partnership, there will be more responsive support for flooded communities in future years. Given the scale of the challenge, efficient use of existing resource will be paramount to sustained success.

Realistically though, flooding is not a new threat, though with greater urbanisation, misdirected planning approaches (e.g. development of flood plains to meet housing targets) and rapidly

changing climate dynamics, it presents a clear and present risk of increased likelihood and frequency. We need to establish robust working partnerships swiftly to prepare ourselves better for current decade events, as well as inevitable ‘climate change’ forecasted events.

Surface water flood risk and management need is an important issue generally, specifically for urban areas and for communities downstream of large conurbations, subject to peak storm flow surcharges as a consequence. Despite this, it is also a significant issue for rural areas where the economic impact is less pronounced but equally significant for ecosystems that we depend on nationally to feed us and balance water sustainably. It is a particular and impending issue for the East of England given its low lying topography (many areas below sea level), long coastline (risk of inundation with storm surges coinciding with high inland river levels) and significant planned growth for the area (30% of national new housing forecasts).

Anglian Water’s Strategic Direction Statement highlights growth and climate change being the two most significant issues for the future

sustainability of water and sewerage serviceability in the region. As a result, the company approved its strategy for surface waters management in March 2009. Planning for the future in East Anglia, given climate change projections having greatest national impact on eastern counties, is essential.

Since SDS publication, Anglian Water has been active both on policy development and “on the ground” since July 2009, working with councils and seeking to provide influential support for local authority (LA) led partner forums from their outset, as well as creating internal supportive governance for flood risk partner forums, to ensure that the number and nature of forums created are such that the company can serve these positively. The priority has been to help establish an efficient structure, as well as to establish the right behaviours and approach, as critical to making local flooding partnerships work effectively and with sustained success. This has been enabled through top team commitment in each partner member’s organisation to provide the right strategic and technically capable resource. continued p20

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Working jointly with EA in their strategic lead capacity to establish a consistent regional approach, the initiative culminated in a joint EA/ AW SWMP workshop in Ipswich on 14 January, with local authorities from across the Anglian region sharing best practice on approach resulting in an action plan to address identified issues. In addition, the workshop enabled Anglian Water to demonstrate its support for SUDS and launch of the company’s SUDS policy in advance of F&WM Bill enactment, whereby the company will consider adoption of SUDS structures that discharge to sewer.

There remain some regulatory blockers to

“holistic” solutions (e.g. funding work beyond our asset base that is not recognised in PR09); the funding barrier whereby tripartite commitment might be the most pragmatic approach and where a water company could spend is not reasonable, given that the regulatory mechanism does not incentivise companies to do so. For long term success, an agreement on joint and more effective solutions are required.

Ultimately, working in partnership will be essential for collaborative success, creating the strength of relationships through understanding the issues and planning for the risks in each area.

These relationships and the reservoir of trust

established in the quiet years will be essential in the stormy periods and flood events, where knowing the area, risks, and likely courses of surface water through inundated communities, using the relationships established will be key.

However, there is a significant effort needed to develop robust and sustained partner forums with each Local Authority in order to gain such success. As an example a water company’s commitment, what Anglian Water has done to date and continues to do to overcome challenges, through adopting a role of facilitation in a collaborative, prime stakeholder role, is one sure way to sustained success.

FLOOD AND WATER MANAGEMENT ACT 2010 Summary of the Act’s provisions (source: Defra Flood and Water Managament Bill team) New statutory responsibilities for managing flood risk: national strategies and guidance on managing flood risk in England and Wales.

Unitary and county councils will lead and bring together the relevant bodies, including water companies, who will have a duty to cooperate, to develop local strategies for managing local flood risk.

Protection of assets which help manage flood risk: the Environment Agency, local authorities and internal drainage boards will be able to ensure that private assets which help manage the risks of floods cannot be altered without consent. For example, putting a gate in a wall that is helping protect an area could increase the risk of flooding.

Powers to carry out environmental works: the Environment Agency, local authorities and internal drainage boards will be able to manage water levels to deliver leisure, habitat and other environmental benefits.

Sustainable drainage: drainage systems for all new developments will need to be in line with new National Standards to help manage and reduce the flow of surface water into the sewerage system.

New sewer standards: all sewers will be built to agreed standards so that they are adopted and maintained by the relevant sewerage company.

Reservoir safety: the public will be protected by a new risk-based regime for reservoir safety. It will reduce the burden on regulated reservoirs where people are not at risk, but introduce regulation for some potentially risky reservoirs currently outside of the system.

Water company charges: there will be protection against unaffordable charges for surface water drainage for community groups such as churches, scouts and others. Future water company charges can include social tariffs for those who would otherwise face difficulty meeting their bills.

Protection of water supplies: there will be wider powers for water companies to control non-essential domestic uses of water in times of drought.

Other protections for water company customers: there will be new powers to reduce the level of bad debt, new arrangements for managing very risky infrastructure projects which could be a threat to the ability of the water company to provide its services, and updated arrangements for administration of water companies should they get into difficulties.

The new Act will be published and, when available, electronic copies can be obtained from the Office of Public Sector Information: www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2010a You can find further information about the Act on Defra’s web pages: www.defra.gov.uk/environment/flooding/policy/fwmb/index.htm

Martin Ballard is Performance Manager for capital and operational contracted spend working in the Anglian Water Asset Management directorate. He had the opportunity to lead Anglian Water’s Surface Water Management project with the objective to work with operational and asset management colleagues to establish a robust and tested governance structure, developed with EA, Defra, GO-East and Local Authority consultation. The project culminated in a joint AW/ EA workshop on 14 January bringing together all LA’s in the AW region, to ensure common understanding, consistent approach and clear action to share best practice regionally for flood risk partnerships, in preparedness to understand flood risk and consider suitable options to reduce risk and liability.

Martin Ballard, Performance Manager, Anglian Water (Surface Water Management Project Lead)

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FEATURE:The Future of the Water Industry

Are we Invested Enough in Skills?

By David Hellier, Head of Sector Engagement, Energy and Utility Skills A safe and reliable water supply is key for society, as we have seen in the past, and continue to witness, in parts of Africa when the water infrastructure breaks down disease and death quickly follow. The UK enjoys very high quality water and waste water systems. Delivered by a workforce of 166,500 (within 2,600 businesses), drinking water quality is routinely 99.95% compliant with regulatory standards. Maintaining such standards requires a very high level of technical knowledge and experience.

To ensure that the UK water industry continues to have a highly skilled workforce Energy & Utility Skills (EU Skills), the Sector Skills Council for the gas, waste management and water industries, is working in collaboration with water companies to understand the skills requirements now and for the next 15 years. The mechanism for creating this knowledge has been developed by EU Skills and consists of a dynamic Workforce Planning model.

representatives of UK water companies, training providers, contractors and other significant suppliers. The WISSG was formed by EU Skills to address the strategic skills issues across the water industry with a particular emphasis on the medium (two-five years) and the long-tern (five -20 years). The group is chaired by an industry representative and secretariat for the group is provided

by EU Skills.

To ensure that the key messages regarding skills investment are at the forefront of the WISSG the main purposes of the group is to look at how by working in collaboration the current and future skills, training and education needs are met. As part of this an action plan has been produced to ensure that skills development become a key priority for the industry and are not neglected when economic condition become tough. The action plan falls into three categories in order to create a sustainable workforce:

In 2008, the majority of the UK’s regulated water companies contributed to the development of this dynamic Workforce Planning Model, assessing the impact of an ageing workforce across key technical and engineering skill sets.

Essentially, the model enables:

1. Competency frameworks

n Companies to forecast workforce retirees and leavers by skill set and plan how and when to replace them.

The current action plan includes, but will not be limited to the following:

n An understanding of the investment required over a 15 year period to support recruitment and training.

2. Sustainable recruitment 3. Sustainable training provision

n To enhance the EU Skills workforce planning model to support the water industry in workforce planning.

n An industry wide picture of the demand for workforce renewal activity.

n To enable the skills frameworks currently being developed to be more user friendly in supporting the competency development of the industry.

The emerging picture is one of an industry requiring an urgent step change in the levels of investment seen in staff development, training and the nurturing of a pool of potential recruits.

n To create a more appropriate Operating Process Plan suite of standards and qualifications.

The Workforce Planning Model is populated by 16,600 technical and operational staff. The average retirement age within the industry is 61, and 48% of the workforce is expected to have retired by 2024. The outputs of the model predict that over the next five years the water companies will be faced with an increased investment in skills of 245% over their current level of funding. This presents a twofold challenge in that the determination by OFWAT will restrict the level of funding to address this gap plus the ability of the training provision to react to this increase in demand.

The need to replace this critical knowledge and skill base is a significant enough issue; however when natural wastage, long lead times to competency and a lack of potential recruits with a sufficient grounding in science and engineering subjects is considered, the challenge becomes significantly greater. More specifically, the industry is faced with: n An estimated need to recruit and train over 10,000 new Apprentices (at Levels 2 and 3) between 2008 and 2024. n A requirement across the same period for nearly 6000 existing staff to be up-skilled, many to positions requiring qualifications at Levels 4 and 5.

Additionally, individual organisations are anticipating a heavy reliance on the recruitment of competent workers to plug skill gaps. As the aggregated need for such recruits (circa 8,000) across this period outweighs current levels of natural wastage, this solution is likely to be unrealistic unless workers from overseas are enlisted. Potentially therefore, the need for upskilling may be even greater than currently anticipated.

n To establish Competency Management System pilots for the water industry. n To undertake a review of the water industry approach to training within a health and safety context. n To seek innovative methods in building the training capacity for the sector. n To establish agreement between employers, unions and government/s on how to address the long-term skills issues in the water industry.

It is critical to the future success of the water industry to ensure that we continue to facilitate an adequate supply of competent people to develop, maintain and enhance the industry and it is important that we work together to tackle these issues together and act now to ensure that the water industry has the skills they need now and in the future. Work is also needed to ensure that the water industry is perceived as an attractive career choice from young people and those from non traditional employment pools.

To learn more about the work that EU Skills carries out and how to get involved please contact us at: Energy & Utility Skills, Friars Gate , 1011 Stratford Road Shirley, Solihull B90 4BN Tel: 0845 077 99 22 Email: enquiries@euskills.co.uk www.euskills.co.uk

The response to these forecasts needs to be wide ranging, as only a collaborative effort between employers and the various elements of the skills system will ensure the challenge is met – a key role for EU Skills will be the facilitation of this process.

One part of the facilitation process will be driven through the Water Industry Skills Steering Group (WISSG), this strategic group is made up of senior

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Watertrain Delivering Through Partnership

OUR PRODUCTS Apprentice Frameworks A range of Level 2, 3 & 4 NVQs Level 2/3 Technical Certificates Level 3 Diplomas Higher Education Continuous Professional Development Leadership & Management Training Licensed Operator Health & Safety Training Bespoke Training

Why Watertrain?

Watertrain effectively combines the strengths of three different training organisations to offer utility clients training of the highest quality, as well as access to the latest funding streams.

About Us Watertrain is an established and successful provider of technical training and qualifications to the utility sector. Our mutual aim is to focus on our clients’ needs, specifically in the area of National Apprentice Frameworks for the Gas, Water and Electricity sectors.

By pooling the expertise of three well established training organisations (with a client base that already includes many of the UK’s blue chip utilities and contracting companies), we are able to offer solutions that take into account industry frameworks that underpin sustainable recruitment and training strategies.

An Expanding Client Base The EU Skills Workforce Planning Model tells us that over the next 10 years the regulated water companies are collectively anticipating a requirement to recruit over 11,000 new members of staff. This is where Watertrain can really add value and address sector needs. With over 1000 students currently undertaking training with us, this is testimony to our ever increasing client base which includes many of the key players in the UK water industry.

Energy & Utility Skills Energy & Utility Skills were thrilled to have brokered and helped develop this unique water apprenticeship, in partnership with Northern Ireland Water (NI Water). The apprenticeship, approved by the Department for Employment and Learning, will sustain the high level skills and competence required by the NI Water workforce now and into the future.

We are confident that the apprenticeship will prove to be the lifeblood of the company, providing a continuous circle of talent.

The programme ensures competent, capable, crafts-persons come in at one end to balance with retirees going out at the other, at a time when NI Water is going through a business transformation.

EU Skills has worked with the Department to establish a managing agent and specialist provider for the apprenticeship. Watertrain are now established in this role and are equipping the apprentices with up-to-date knowledge and skills tailored to meet the needs of a high tech industry.

Call 0151 550 4593 or visit www.watertrain.co.uk 22

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WATERTRAIN

NORTHERN IRELAND WATER BENEFITS FROM THE WATERTRAIN APPRENTICESHIP TREATMENT Our aim is to focus on client needs, specifically in the area of National Apprentice Frameworks in the Water, Gas and Electricity sectors Glenn Jackson, Watertrain Learning and Development Director

Training company, Watertrain, in partnership with Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) is now playing a pivotal role in training the skilled water engineers of the future.

Watertrain was established in 2007 to fill a gap in the training provision being offered in this sector, by offering technical training and qualifications to utility companies to equip the next generation of young employees with relevant skills.

Watertrain has expanded its base from the North-West of England and is delivering training throughout the UK including Northern Ireland.

An apprenticeship project, funded by the Government’s Department of Employment & Learning, and supported by Energy & Utilities Skills is being delivered for NI Water. Twenty apprentices are the first to benefit from this scheme in Northern Ireland.

Under the programme the apprentices – split evenly between new staff and existing staff who’ve been selected for career advancement – will spend two years developing their skills. On completion of the course the qualification outcomes will be the City & Guilds Diploma in Water Engineering and a Level 3 NVQ relevant to the student’s particular discipline, plus essential skills.

Course studies are divided between classroom block-release sessions and on-the-job instruction, and cover all major sector areas, including the clean water pipes network, waste treatment and the sewerage system.

Jim Oldroyd of Watertrain, said “The twenty apprentices will gain the skills and knowledge that they need to make a valuable contribution back in the workplace and develop their own career within the sector. We have successfully delivered these courses in England, but this is the first time we have rolled them out in Northern Ireland. It’s very pleasing to us to see young people within the sector being given this opportunity.”

Watertrain has three major partners who collaboratively provide the kind of training that is required. Highly skilled employees at Bolton

College, UTL Training Limited and Utilise Training and Development Solutions Ltd act as associates, providing knowledge and personnel where needed, to ensure a high quality of training provision.

Watertrain Learning and Development Director, Glenn Jackson, said: “After working in the water industry for more than 30 years, I realised that there was a gap in the training provision on offer so, with my colleagues, we decided to create Watertrain.

“We combine the expertise of three well established training organisations, all of whom already offer their own extensive training solutions across the utility sector as a whole. By working together, we provide a complete service in the management and delivery of apprenticeships where the three divisions cover the principal sector needs. The effectiveness of this approach is demonstrated by our work in England and now in Northern Ireland.”

In addition to delivering apprenticeships, Watertrain has a track record in helping clients to secure the necessary funding, a process that can be daunting without the kind of expertise and support offered by Watertrain and its partners.

Building on a solid base in the North-West, Watertrain is increasingly working nationally across the UK and developing opportunities further afield in Australia, the Middle East and India.

Although the water industry was Watertrain’s primary focus when it was created, the team has further extended its offer to include a much more rounded service – training apprentices working in the electrical field and developing the capacity to deliver gas apprenticeships.

The focus on apprenticeships has not precluded Watertrain from providing the training needed for a host of other qualifications, and so technical certificates, NVQs and other technical training solutions are also available within the portfolio.

Find out more information about Watertrain at www.watertrain.co.uk

CASE STUDY

Archaeology grounding paves the way to Utilities Apprenticeship Twenty four year old Rachel Moffitt is a Waste Water Apprentice, based with Northern Ireland Water (NI Water) in Omagh. She is now in the second year of her apprenticeship and so far she’s completed the NVQ Level 2 in Waste Water Treatment, is close to completing the Level 3 Diploma in Water Engineering, and begins the NVQ Level 3 in April 2010.

Rachel’s route to a career within the utilities sector was more unusual than most. “I initially gained a degree in Archaeology from Queens University (Belfast) and worked in Field Archaeology for 2 years after my degree”, she said. “I was made redundant from my archaeology job in the summer of 2008 and tried for another job in the same employment area, but this didn’t work out. It’s then that I made the decision to look for a new career path and spotted the advert for NI Water Apprentices.

“I was delighted to be offered the apprenticeship position as this has given me the chance to experience a range of roles and tasks within NI Water. At the plant in Omagh, for example, I assess the quality of water samples – including checking if there are any issues from the night before and then passing these on to our mechanical and electrical departments.

I also carry out routine daily tasks within the Waste Water Plant, such as cleaning screens. I enjoy working for NI Water and I am keen to progress up the career ladder. Apprenticeships have given me the opportunity to gain an NVQ and Diploma over a short period of time and to gain new skills!

“Most aspects of my job are great, especially working outside in the better weather and meeting a variety of different people.

I get a lot of job satisfaction and would recommend apprenticeships within the utilities sector to anyone with a good work ethic who can motivate themselves – as you may be working alone a great deal.”

Case study courtesy of Energy & Utility Skills

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The Evolution of Leaders is Here Evolve Your Workforce And Overall Business Efficiency With Mate®

Historically, the technical ability and competence of operatives in the water industry has played a major role in building and maintaining the UK’s water network assets.

Qualifications such as Network Construction Operations, Leakage Detection & Distribution Control are qualifications we are all familiar with and they ensure workers in the industry, whether apprentices or the existing workforce, are capable of carrying out their every day duties.

As often is the case, the best technical staff get promoted to leaders, but they don't necessarily know how to manage people and the complexities this can bring. These leaders are highly technically competent ('on the tools') but typically pack up their tools and equipment one Friday and turn up in the office on the Monday as a new Supervisor or Manager. Without the relevant training in this area of transformation, business inefficiencies can start to appear.

Ask yourself these questions: n Why do employees look like they talk to each other but they don't actually communicate successfully? n Why, when you stop someone from working unsafely, do they know what they were doing wrong in the first place? n Why do managers in a technical environment focus on the task and but not place as much emphasis on managing the people or improving communication?

Have you or your staff got the right attitudes, behaviours and leadership skills? This is where MaTE® comes into play…

Develop Training Ltd have combined their technical expertise on Water Networks with their behavioural know-how to designed a new program called MaTE® which stands for Managing a Technical Environment. The programme puts

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your leaders, supervisors or managers into situations and environments they will face onsite whilst working on Water Distribution or Sewerage Networks. This is called ‘real play’ as opposed to the typical role play – and its tough. As a result your technical staff will become equipped with the right behavioural and leadership traits that will in turn lead to increased staff motivation and a better working environment.

The knock on effects of this can be phenomenal - it is our view at Develop Training that ‘behaviour breeds behaviour’; and this has been evident in the MaTE® programs we have run so far. Incorporating the right behaviours amongst middle managers can have a positive effect throughout an organisation structure, both transferring from supervisors/team leaders to managers and also to the workforce.

MaTE® has proven tangible business results and has helped AMEC (M1 Gas Alliance), one of Develop Training’s major utility engineering clients, to half staff turnover, increase staff morale, reduce accident rates and improve overall efficiency over a 12 month period. As well as this, the engineers who went on the program now carry a City & Guilds qualification with MaTE® due to the fact that an onsite competency assessment was given after the program had taken place.

To demonstrate the full features and benefits of MaTE® we would like to invite you to one of our free taster day seminars, where you will get the opportunity to meet the Behavioural and Technical training staff, see how MaTE was developed and how it has helped AMEC (M1 Gas Alliance).

Versions of MaTE® include: MaTE® for Team Leaders (2 days) MaTE® for Supervisors (3 days) MaTE® for Managers (5 days) We also have a full range of Water Networks Training Solutions available at our Derby, Swindon, Rutland and York sites. This includes: n Water Engineering n Installation, Maintenance and Refurbishment of Water Networks n Networks Design n Water and Waste Water Treatment n Butt and Electro Fusion n Reservoir Management and Supervision n Water and Environment Law n Confined Spaces

n Derby - 10th September n York - 17th September If you are interested in attending one of the seminars please call us on 0800 876 6708.

To find out the full details regarding MaTE please visit: www.evolveyourworkforce.co.uk

For more information on our range of Water Networks course and available dates please call us on 0800 876 6708 or visit www.developtraining.co.uk/ utilities/waternetworks

PROCESS INSTRUMENTS

Residual Chlorine Analysers – Auto-Flushed with Success Residual chlorine monitors and indeed, ozone monitors, pH meters and chlorine dioxide analysers have all been around a long time and it would seem unlikely that they could be improved upon greatly…but for some applications they have!

In 2007 a paper mill approached Process Instruments (UK) Ltd (Pi) with a problem. They had a de-inked stock that they measured pH in to control a chemical addition. The problem was that their pH sensor was coating with ink that set hard on the glass. The pH sensors were unreliable a short time after replacement and the cost of replacing the sensors monthly was prohibitive.

Following a detailed survey and discussion with the customer Pi proposed an auto-flushing device that would flush the pH sensor with warm, soapy water regularly enough to prevent rather than remove build up of ink.

Two years after installation the same pH sensor continues to give reliable results with the CRIUS® 100 analyser not only controlling the pH sensor, but providing the PID control for the chemical addition.

The CRIUS® Autoflush is controlled by the analyser where user variables adjust the flush time, frequency and signal hold time.

Fortunately not all cleaning requirements are so tough and via a ‘customer consultation’ exercise (we asked them!) Pi discovered that the need to keep sensors clean is far greater than previously imagined. Since 2006 Pi has shipped approximately 50 autoflush units all using potable water to keep various sensors clean under varying

conditions. Some of the applications that have benefitted from a CRIUS® Autoflush are: n pH sensor in a de-inking plant n free chlorine sensor in white water in a paper plant n chlorine dioxide sensor in a food plant n pH sensor in an industrial chemical plant If you have an application where your sensors require excessive maintenance or where the sensors need to be replaced too often, visit www. processinstruments.net, or search for CRIUS® Autoflush on YouTube to watch a video of the autoflush working!

Pi has been providing instrument solutions since 1998 and supplies through Distributors, under Private Label/OEM agreements and to End Users within the Water, Waste, Chemical, Paper, Pool and Leisure industries. With offices, a laboratory and new manufacturing facilities in Burnley, Lancashire, Pi operates globally with customers in Europe, America and the Middle East, including; Technostar (Egypt), Scottish Water (UK), Crow Wood Leisure (UK), Northern Ireland Water (UK), and Chemtrac (America). More recently Pi has received awards for innovation and has quadrupled its turnover in three years.

For more information on the latest innovations in water instrumentation, please visit www.processinstruments.net or contact: Mike Riding Process Instruments (Uk) Ltd Process House, Dominion Court, Billington Road Burnley, Lancashire BB11 5UB Tel: 01282 422 835 Email: mike.riding@processinstruments.net

The only institute solely concerned with the UK water industry. We support and develop your career whoever you are and whatever you do. We do this by providing a unique learning, developing and networking framework.

For more information go to: instituteofwater.org.uk instituteofwater.org.uk

25

Alarm Bells for the Next Five Years?

By Ameeruddin Abro, UK Representative, National Engineering Corporation

Environmental experts at the Copenhagen summit last year expressed concern that half of the world will suffer from water shortages within 30 years.

HAVE YOUR SAY ON KEY ISSUES Here at the Institute of Water we are always keen to hear from members, especially their views on important current issues.

To start this new feature, Ameeruddin Abro shares his thoughts on water resources and efficiency in light of the recent price determinations.

If you would like to have your say and share your concerns in future issues of the Journal, please e-mail: lyndsey@instituteofwater.org.uk

Wide-scale construction of desalination plants to convert sea water into drinking water may be one of the extreme solutions required to secure the world’s water supply, adding to the long list of major infrastructure investments for water companies.

Slowly but gradually climate change is affecting the UK water industry as well as human life in the UK. The growing population and ageing infrastructure are just some of the factors likely to have an impact in the near future. In this article I will explore some of the issues relating to water efficiency and resource management.

Water Efficiency Programs OFWAT’s newly released PR09 final determinations prompt water companies to lower water use by 1 litre/day/property through their water efficiency

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projects in the next five years. These include several programs such as water resource management plans; catchments; abstraction management strategies; water cycle studies; strategic flood risk assessments; surface water management plans; green infrastructure studies; water framework directive; drainage systems and Ecotowns. The targets are to be achieved either by technological means or by community participation, and the regulator has directed the water companies to concentrate on water meters and water efficient bathroom equipment such as dual flush toilets.

The companies are expected to provide evidence of their projects through the June Returns.

Companies are also faced with the challenge of reducing bills by £3 over the next five years. It is hoped targets can be achieved by using long term management programs.

The current state of the UK economy has made it very difficult for companies to acquire the required finance to follow the AMP5 based water efficiency programs outlined by OFWAT. More and more companies are turning to National and International NGO’s like WWF and UNDP to look to coordinate community participation programs aimed at reducing the unnecessary use of water.

This is also seen as a way of achieving funding through the climate change programs agreed upon in the Copenhagen summit.

Water Losses OFWAT has directed companies to maintain leakage levels for the next five years. This seems

to have come as quite a surprise to organisations and key stakeholders such as the Consumer Council for Water and Waterwise. With current Leakage at 45% today in England and Wales, I for one don’t understand why OFWAT didn’t ask for this to be decreased. Existing leakage is damaging to properties and roads. It is a key economic issue given operational and investment costs but is equally important because leakage reduces the quantity achieved from water resources which are finite, especially the ground water. I believe OFWAT should be asking companies to invest in lowering leakage levels as well as lowering the cost of customer bills. Leaked water is not paid for but continues to harm existing structures.

There are 58 District Metered Areas (DMAs) in the UK. Software packages such as EPANET, INFOWOKS AND GIS are used to prepare models for control of leakage and bursts in these areas. According to last year’s figures however pipe-bursts are increasing to more than 30 in 100 kms (Source: Advanced water supply management in UK, 2009). According to WHO Standards this is not acceptable. Control over pipe bursts is also important as it not only wastes water but also damages the neighbouring properties and sometimes inundates the roads.

Present practice in the water industry doesn’t look to detect pipe bursts and it should. I think important lessons could be learnt from the oil industry where mathematical modeling and analysis is common practice and they control the leakage because their pipes are well equipped and inform the leakage level through the model as quickly as possible.

FEATURE:HAVE YOUR SAY "Slowly but gradually climate change is affecting the UK water industry as well as human life in the UK. The growing population and ageing infrastructure are just some of the factors likely to have an impact in the near future."

Ameeruddin Abro is a Civil Engineer (Water) and currently the UK Representative for Pakistan’s National Engineering Corporation. He is coordinating with WWF for water efficiency projects in India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Prior to this Ameeruddin worked for Mott MacDonald as a Water Consultant and Project Manager. From 2006 - 2007 he worked for the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) as a Water Supply Engineer, where he was a member of the team which prepared a master plan of water supply and sewerage systems for a city of 15 million people to meet requirements until 2025. Ameeruddin has a BEng in Civil Engineering and an MSc from Norway’s largest technical university, NTNU.

Water Resources Despite the recent flooding seen in parts of England, especially in Cumbria, the case for improving water efficiency remains compelling.

Climate change models suggest that drought events will occur more frequently. The sort of heavy downpours we have witnessed tend to runoff to drainage systems and rivers long before they can seep down and boost the underground water resources which are so important in maintaining long-term water supply in parts of this country, the south east in particular.

Across much of England, the water already being abstracted accounts for all the available water resources in the summer months. In many parts of England, groundwater resources are also being used to their limit. In some places abstraction of water is already beyond the limits at which environmental stress or damage occurs. Such abstraction places the UK at risk of failing to

meet environmental standards set by European legislation, such as those likely to arise from the Water Framework and Habitats Directives.

Climate change will not only affect water availability, but also the demand for water. Our understanding of the relationship between climate and water use is not perfect, but it is clear from one aspect for example that longer periods of hot weather are likely to result in people showering more frequently. Demand for water is also linked to societal choices, and individual desires to use water in different ways. Much more research into this area needs to be considered and special targets should be set in areas where water distribution requires pumping and more energy.

Ambitious water use plans (130 litres per person per day by 2030) and home water efficiency targets as indicated by the government (including plans to make all homes zero carbon by 2050)

clearly need to include water efficiency measures if they are to deliver their aims. This will help to make progress towards the government’s legally binding 80% greenhouse gas emissions reduction target, and contribute savings to its 5-yearly carbon budgets, as well as the water industry’s own water efficiency and greenhouse gas emissions targets.

Companies should not underestimate the use of water efficient equipments and the training of contractors should play an important role. Water resource control rooms need to be operated according to forthcoming climate change implications. Despite the fact that much work has been planned to meet the target of reducing 1 litre/day/property, much more coordination is still required between water companies and regulators.

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PIPELINE SERVICES

Renew or Rehabilitate: removing the guesswork…

HELP IS AT HAND FROM PIPELINE SERVICES Key budgetary decisions can only be taken by water companies when they know the current state of their pipeline infrastructure. While accurate data on pipe condition has always been needed across the industry, obtaining the data has usually involved an interruption to water services and significant time and cost in conducting intrusive manual inspections.

Also, assessments of pipe condition have up to now been conducted in isolation, with little sharing of cumulative experience and evidence which could help in making more accurate predictions of pipeline life spans.

To answer both of these issues, Pipeline Services has developed an array of non-intrusive, cost-effective measurement and assessment techniques and has just launched a tool which taps into a huge database of past data. These services provide water companies with the knowledge required to make the best possible decisions on whether to renew sections of mains or to just rehabilitate them, knowing then with some accuracy their remaining lifespan.

Clearly it is more economical to rehabilitate pipelines which have decades left of useful life, though conversely to rehabilitate when ongoing repairs are going to be required is a false economy.

For non-intrusive assessment the answer lies in using the latest ultrasonic, acoustic and CCTV techniques to obtain accurate data with no interruption to service: see a complete picture of the state of your mains by sitting in your office watching a DVD, or studying data on your PC! To cover all assessment requirements, Pipeline Services offers a full suite of pipeline inspection services:

Structural Assessments n Non-Destructive Inspection (NDT): Using ultrasonics, a section of pipeline equivalent to a destructive pipe sample can be scanned to provide accurate internal and external corrosion measurements. From this data the remaining life expectancy can be assessed accurately. n Acoustic Condition Assessment Inspection (ACA): With no excavation necessary, existing apparatus is used to generate acoustic signals throughout a section of a pipeline, helping to calculate the remaining pipe wall thickness along the section. A leakage assessment can also be performed using the same equipment – even at the same time!

Internal Inspections n Under Pressure CCTV: Pipeline Services can insert a CCTV camera via underpressure drilling or virtually any type of apparatus. This can pin-point internal problems such as lining condition, bore-loss, bio-film development or lost and defective valves, other fittings and connections etc. CCTV is generally used in conjunction with NDT to provide a survey of the internal

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condition highlighting water quality, hydraulic grading and sediment build-up. We can even remove samples of sediment, bio-film and water in supply through the camera insertion point. n Under Pressure Rodding and Crawler CCTV: Pipeline Services rodding cameras and crawler units can inspect aftermarket spray linings that are suspected of deterioration. They can pinpoint cross connections, service connections, hidden or buried apparatus and leakages. n Under Pressure CCTV via Hydrant: This requires no excavation and can provide information on bore-loss due to corrosion ‘tubercollation’ and lining condition. Excellent for use in a pre-design feasibility study to determine if a lining is present.

Additional Services n Under Pressure Drilling – Sample Coupon removal: To see sediment and tuberculation build-up, coupons are removed using an under-pressure drilling technique. This will also show how well lining or tuberculation is adhered. n Soil and Water Analysis: This can be used to assess the structural condition and in fracture risk analyses. We can remove water samples from any position within the pipeline for laboratory analysis. n ‘Legion’ Predictive Pipe Condition Assessment Tool: Utilising an extensive database of over 30,000 pipe sample analyses taken from across the UK and Ireland, this provides an accurate prediction for any given section of metal pipeline. Combined with client’s own leakage and mains pressure records and CCTV techniques requiring no excavation, Legion provides an excellent, no-dig procedure for assessing condition and predicting life expectancy.

So, by tapping into our wealth of past data and using the latest non-intrusive technology, Pipeline Services really can remove the guesswork involved in making that renew or rehabilitate decision.

Jason Smith, Pipeline Conditions Manager, Pipeline Services www.upls.co.uk jasonsmith@pipeline-services.co.uk

Need accurate Pipeline infrastructure advice?

Wouldn’t it be great to know the condition of pipes without interrupting supply?

Wouldn’t it be helpful to make renewal/rehabilitate decisions based on thousands of past cases?

Pipeline Services gives you both: • A range of non-intrusive, cost-effective measurement and assessment techniques: these allow you to see a complete picture of the state of your mains, on DVD! • The ‘Legion’ Predictive Pipe Condition Assessment Tool: Using over 30,000 pipe sample analyses, we provide an accurate prediction for any given section of metal pipeline.

We offer a complete range of services: • Non-Destructive Inspection (NDT): Using ultrasonics, pipes can be scanned to provide accurate internal and external corrosion measurements.

• Acoustic Condition Assessment Inspection (ACA): With no excavation necessary, we can calculate pipe wall thickness + a leakage assessment at the same time!

• Under Pressure CCTV: This can pinpoint a whole range of internal pipe problems.

• Under Pressure Rodding and Crawler CCTV: Ideal for inspecting linings suspected of deterioration + pinpointing connections, hidden or buried apparatus and leakages.

• Under Pressure CCTV via Hydrant: Excellent for use in a pre-design feasibility study to determine if a lining is present.

In addition, Pipeline Services can also conduct Under Pressure Drilling and Soil and Water Analysis.

So, don’t just try to divine the answer - let Pipeline Services remove the guesswork in that renew or rehabilitate decision.

Call us today on 0121 521 2807 Email: solutions@pipeline-services.co.uk Facsimile: 0121 521 2811 Web: www.pipeline-services.co.uk

• Cuts ductile iron, cast iron and clay pipe • No wood cutting chainsaw training/PPE required • Faster and safer than a cut off saw • Faster than a pipe cutter • Single point access • Diamond grit abrades material away • Vastly reduces time and operator effort • HAV’s for hydraulic saw is 4 m/s freehand

• • • • •

Greatly reduces size of excavation and backfill Reduced digging out by hand underneath the pipe Reduced carbon footprint Safe cutting method with reduced operator effort Extremely rapid cut, typically 1.5 to 2 minutes

for 250 mm D.I. pipe.

•

No fumes in excavation with hydraulic saw

Demonstrations To organise an on site demonstration of this innovative new product please give EC Hopkins a call on 0121 506 6095.

Leak Detection from your Desktop The PermaNet system transmits leak data collected from Permalog+ loggers directly to an office computer wirelessly via network radio or SMS repeater. The effectiveness of Permalog® technology has been proven all around the world – from Las Vegas to Beijing – and in some of the harshest conditions on earth.

Easily installed on pipe fittings, the loggers listen for the noise made by water leaking from pipes and, when a potential leak is detected, they enter an alarm state and transmit a radio signal to indicate a “LEAK” condition.

Loggers can be quickly deployed and used repeatedly with no disruption to the surrounding area or to the water supply, and the precise location of each logger can be recorded onto detailed GPS mapping software as it is put into the ground. Each is immersion-tested to IP68, enabling continuous operation even in flooded chambers. They are powered by low cost, replaceable batteries and are tough enough to ensure that long-term low leakage levels can be achieved and held easily, with minimum maintenance.

PermaNet can be configured to send an automatic alert whenever one of the loggers reports a potential leak, meaning leakage teams’ speed of response and accuracy of deployment can be maximised. This increased efficiency means that both new and existing leaks can be targeted more quickly; saving

e Repair Coupling

nd leakages er pressure! air Coupling to carry out ied pipelineRepair underground leakages remotely and under pressure! at groundThe Remote Repair Coupling allows the Teekaycontractors to carry out repairs to a buried pipeline whilst remaining upling only aat ground level. By using the Teekay

more water, and reducing the risk to surrounding infrastructure. A complete network of devices creates a powerful system to supply up-to-date flow data and effective water management. Leak sizes can be determined by matching daily leak alarms with flow data, and problem zones can be brought quickly and effectively under control.

A new development called ALMOS (Acoustic Leak Monitoring Online System) now uses this data, in conjunction with popular online mapping technology, to provide a live, on-screen tracking application for deployed Permalog loggers from any internet-connected PC, without any specialist software. The location and leak status of each logger is displayed directly and accurately on a map of the area, with further information available at the click of a button.

Find out more about this and other water management equipment at www.hwm-water.com

The Teekay Remote Repair wrap-around hinge mechanism and is constructed from stainless steel. This allows the coupling to be easily The Teekay Remote Repair Coupling manipulated and installed over still maintains a wrap-around hinge the leak.mechanism and is constructed

Remote Repair Coupling

the

Remote Repair Coupling only a small localized excavation is required, resulting in less inconvenience to public and better preservation publicthe of the surrounding environment.

nment.

tel: +44 (0)1494 679500

from stainless steel. This allows the coupling to be easily manipulated and installed over the leak.

Developed in close cooperation with Morrison Utility Services in in 2006,2006, thethe patented patented TeekayTeekay Remote Repair Coupling has been in for Remote Repair Couplingusehas over 3 years.

been in use for over 3 years.

www.teekaycouplings.com instituteofwater.org.uk

33

Head Office: 12 Parsons Road Parsons Industrial Estate District 2, Washington Tyne & Wear NE37 1HB Tel: (0191) 415 7744 Fax: (0191) 419 3051 Email: info@fastflow.co.uk

Scotland Office: 5 Pollock Avenue Hillhouse Industrial Estate, Hamilton South Lanarkshire ML3 9SZ

Midlands Office: Unit 1 The Rowan Tree Elmhurst Business Park Elmhurst, Lichfield Staffordshire WS13 8EX

www.fastflow.co.uk

FASTFLOW

Innovation in Trunk Mains Cleaning The water industry is facing many challenges today n n n

Maintaining customer supplies Ensuring all water supplies meet or exceed the drinking water standards, and Value for money

These challenges are not trade-offs – they must all be delivered on. The pressure this places on Water Asset Owners is readily evidenced in their approach to maintaining the integrity and robustness of trunk mains – the feeders to the whole water distribution system.

For many asset owners the trunk mains used today to service their network of homeowners and businesses were installed decades ago. Whilst these trunk mains are highly robust elements of the water network, over many years small particles of sediment – harmless to the water consumer – build up on the surface of the main. This can on occasion lead to instances of discolouration leading to customer concerns and complaints.

n Dirty water is pumped out and decanted into settling tanks. Once settled, the sediment is taken from site and disposed of n Finally, if necessary, the main is ‘plunged’ to remove any standing water prior to chlorination

By focusing on developing a solution that minimised the use of water, the overall costs of the cleaning process were consequently reduced. The table below, taken from Northumbrian Water’s performance statistics, demonstrates that Fastflow’s solution uses only 10% of the water volume used by existing spray cleaning methods – a fraction of what would normally be consumed using pigging.

Pipe Dia

Total Cleaning Length

Existing Cleaning Spray Methods (000’s of litres)

Pigging Total Volume (000’s of litres)

Total Volume used on Fastflow Cleaning Process (000’s of litres)

n Replace the Trunk Main at a very significant capital cost, or

49”

3,150m

1,360

19,260

136

n If the integrity of the main itself is sound, decommission the main for a period, set up an alternate temporary supply and find an effective way of removing the sediment from the surface of the main

36”

6,795m

2,100

22,310

204

12”

3,850m

640

1,405

64

Water asset owners have essentially two options if they are to address these issues;

Northumbrian Water has been one of the most pro-active water asset owners in addressing this strategic challenge. In 2006 they challenged their supply partners to develop a solution based upon cleaning the surface area of their trunk mains. The key deliverables were; n Mains cleaned to minimum specified levels ( concentration levels set at 75% lower than the DWI’s Permissible Concentration Values)

When considering the effectiveness of the cleaning of the main, Fastflow sought to exceed Northumbrian Water’s requirements in order to enhance the longevity of this approach – reducing long term costs and disruption for the client and their customers. The table below clearly demonstrates the effectiveness of this cleaning solution; Pipe Deposit

n Minimal use of water during the cleaning process n Cleaning method to be non-abrasive to maintain the integrity of the main lining (cement/bitumen) n Minimise physical interventions to the main n Cleaning solution to minimise any environmental impact, and n Cleaning equipment to be flexible to cater for a range of trunk main dimensions

DWI Min Specs

NWL Trigger Level

NWL Min Specs

Fastflow Cleaning Process

Iron (Fe)

200 μg/litre

100 μg/litre

50 μg/litre

5.28 μg/litre

Aluminium (Al)

200 μg/litre

100 μg/litre

50 μg/litre

2.60 μg/litre

Manganese (Mn)

50 μg/litre

25 μg/litre

20 μg/litre

0.28 μg/litre

The Fastflow solution

Traditional cleaning methods could not meet these stringent criteria.

n Is capable of cleaning a range of trunk mains diameters from 12” to 72”

Fastflow Pipeline Services took this challenge on and developed a rotating spray head based system utilising spring loaded arms to centralise the unit as it moves along the main. In 2008 this cleaning system won the coveted UKSTT award for Innovation.

n can cope with up to 90 degree bends

The total cleaning process comprises the following activities:

n is based on a safe ‘water-only’ cleaning approach (i.e. no chemicals) combined with a comprehensive waste management plan to satisfy environmental concerns:

n Launch and reception pits are excavated at the beginning and end of the trunk main section (upto 1,000 metres) to be cleaned n The spray cleaning unit is drawn along the main using a cable winched from the reception bay end with a slow motion carriage n An umbilical system provides water flow to the spray head n The rotating spray cleaning unit ensures a consistent clean around the circumference of the pipe with a camera attached to the unit to assess performance

n can clean sections of mains up to 1,000m in length, reducing the number of costly interventions

To date, over 35 kilometres of trunk mains has been cleaned using this solution with a programme in place to clean a further 45kilometers over the next 18 months.

Fastflow has invested over £300,000 in the cleaning process and supporting equipment and had a European patent published in May 2009.

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New Range of Portable Arsenic Test Kits The new DigiPAsS and VisuPAsS systems from Palintest Ltd offer accurate, laboratorystandard Arsenic testing in a portable field kit format. Both options use the well-established Gutzeit method to detect Arsenic levels in drinking water, up to and well beyond the WHO recommended maximum of 10 µg/l.

The method first converts all Arsenic in a sample to Arsine gas, which is then completely captured by the unique three-stage filter. This ensures excellent accuracy, with no toxic gas release, over the 20 minute reaction time. The result can be assessed either visually against a colour chart (100 - 500 µg/l) or analyzed by the dedicated DigiPAsS instrument with accuracy and precision across the 2-100 µg/l range comparable to AAS. The simplicity of the VisuPAsS system makes it especially suitable for more challenging environments, or where costs must be kept to a minimum.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring contaminant of drinking water in several areas of the world, and even at very low concentrations it causes a variety of serious conditions known collectively as arsenicosis. Symptoms may not even appear until after many accumulated years of drinking contaminated water. The need for accurate testing at low concentrations is therefore vital to continued water safety, and these new Arsenic test kits from Palintest Ltd. offer laboratory quality analysis for on the spot verification.

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1/4/10

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Water conservation: global issue, local solution

In recent years water scarcity has become a hot topic across the world. Mike Pocock, Head of Strategic Planning at Veolia Water Central, advocates addressing this important global issue by implementing local solutions…

Water scarcity presents one of the biggest challenges of this millennium.

It’s high time for us all to place a far greater value on this natural resource, not least because it is essential to life on this planet. We need to take action now if we are to maintain our planet’s equilibrium for the benefit of future generations.

Our world is evolving and the pace is quickening. Water has an undeniable link to many crises in modern times, including population growth, climate change, food supplies and prices, energy and financial markets. It has also been the source of conflict between nations – think of the ongoing struggle between Israel and Syria over the Jordan River, or the current tensions between India and Pakistan.

In arid countries such as Kenya and Ethiopia, people place an extremely high value on water. In other parts of the world, however, it’s not even given a second thought – the same can be said of the trillions of gallons of virtual water (the water used to create a product) that are transferred in the global trade of agricultural products like beef and grain, and other products.

Clearly, this attitude is no longer sustainable. It’s now time to start thinking more about balancing our own needs with the needs of the environment.

Hidden water Our consumption of ‘virtual’ water (including rainwater and irrigation water) is astonishing – for example, as a global average, it takes: n 2,900 gallons to make one pair of jeans n 1,857 gallons to produce one pound of beef n 37 gallons to make one cup of coffee.

Source: National Geographic (April 2010)

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Sustainable solutions for the commercial sector Commerce and industry are major contributors to our country’s overall consumption of water.

The UK has experienced a phenomenal increase in housing needs in recent years. Although important to the growth of our economy, this places additional pressure on many regions where water is scarce, such as the South East of England. Planners are now investing in the concept of ‘water neutrality’ and in ‘sustainable communities’ which are being built to specifications that aim to minimise the additional burden on the environment.

Developers have to meet strict environmental targets that force construction companies to think about the resources they use and how the communities will use them in the future. So recycling systems could be introduced for ‘grey water’ onsite treatment and reuse.

In Sydney Australia, Veolia Water has successfully created a grey water recycling system that reuses stormwater and wastewater from baths, showers and sinks for non-consumption use. Treated shower water is clean enough to wash clothes, dishes and take a shower and bath in, but not quite pure enough to drink. This move has enabled areas within the city to reduce its water footprint and limit its consumption of natural resources.

Organisations that use industrial processes and huge volumes of water to produce products are also coming under pressure to reduce the amount of water they take from natural resources. Food, beverage, paper, pulp, chemical, petrochemical and pharmaceutical companies are required to meet more stringent environmental objectives so are having to find ways to make their processes more efficient.

By implementing innovative solutions and technologies, Veolia Water’s Industrial Services arm develops industrial processes that use or carry water more efficiently and cost-effectively.

FEATURE:GLOBAL ISSUES LOCAL SOLUTIONS highlighted by the recent Walker Report. In fact the industry is a victim of its own success, because we have come to expect an almost endless supply of high-quality water; for generations a sense of entitlement and a perception of ‘umbrella weather’ have become embedded within the national psyche and our water-comfort lifestyle. Many people would argue that water falls from the sky, so why should they have to pay for it?

It’s becoming increasingly obvious that we can’t continue like this indefinitely; big changes are needed. This message was spelled out by Defra in Future Water: the Government’s water strategy for England (2008), which sets out a vision of what we want our water sector to look like in 2030. It confirms the vital importance of securing and maintaining water supplies for the prosperity of the country, the health of its people and the environment. And it started the ball rolling with an expectation of a lower water-use economy.

In the UK, excessive water consumption is firmly linked to luxury items and improved lifestyles: wetrooms, power showers, garden sprinklers, outdoor jacuzzis and car washes all exemplify this growing trend. In an effort to combat this, manufacturers are coming under pressure from all directions to produce white goods that consume low volumes of water and energy, and some have made significant strides.

Similarly, water companies are starting to influence customer behaviour by providing more extensive billing information that shows changes in consumption and links saving water to lower energy bills. The gradual introduction of water metering across the country is forcing people to understand the link between use and cost. One very welcome spin-off is that, in an effort to reduce their bills, many people have been inspired to apply ‘reduce, reuse, recycle’ principles within their household.

Achieving a cultural shift in the Uk domestic market In drought-prone regions of the world, water is a precious commodity – in the fight for survival, many people spend several hours a day transporting jerry cans filled with this murky liquid in to their homes and families.

In sharp contrast, in the UK we seem to place very little value on water as

Like many other water companies, Veolia Water also works closely with local schools to promote the importance of water conservation. In addition to the ‘water box’ educational cross-curricular tool that is distributed to hundreds of schools, each year Veolia Water’s Education Centre at Bushey in Hertfordshire enables around 20,000 schoolchildren to learn about the water cycle and how water is treated, to make it safe to drink. Armed with information to take home, many of these young visitors succeed in influencing other family members to think about their own water use.

We’re starting to see some really exciting water efficiency programmes being implemented across the country, but achieving cultural change cannot be done overnight. I’m confident that, given time, these measures will raise awareness among the population of the value of water and energy, and that this will in turn drive down consumption levels and help manage demand.

Mike Pocock co-ordinates the Water Resources Network for Water UK, the representative organisation that brings together all the UK's water and wastewater utilities. He is a member of the CIWEM Resources Panel and represents Veolia Water UK in national discussions on water resource issues.

To find out more, email information@veoliawater.co.uk

Quenching the thirst of the Uk Growth in demand for water in domestic and commercial sectors results in millions of cubic metres of water being used in the UK every day – this water is extracted from natural resources, which reduces the volumes available for the countryside and to replenish aquifers. And let’s not forget that increased water use inevitably leads to increased greenhouse gas emissions from the various processes involved to supply, treat and heat this water, and then to collect and treat the resultant wastewater.

To comply with the European Water Framework Directive, the Environment Agency has done a considerable amount of work in establishing an integrated approach to the protection, improvement and sustainable use of our rivers, lakes, estuaries, coastal waters and groundwater. As part of this, all English regions are now required to produce and implement a River Basin Management Plan.

These activities are emphasising the need to limit the amount of water that

will be extracted from the ecosystem, in order achieve an acceptable and sustainable environmental balance. But river basin plans only extend to 2015, so water company forecasts are as yet not able to take account of environmental requirements after that date so more needs to be done here also.

Every five years water companies in England and Wales are required to produce a Water Resources Management Plan that outlines how they aim to meet predicted demand for water over the next 25 years.

There are significant challenges ahead for our sector. But the good news is that we still have time to put measures in place to address these issues before they reach the point of no return.

I firmly believe that by taking responsibility for our water footprint and remaining receptive to new ways of improving the service we offer to customers, our sector will succeed in achieving a sustainable, long-term balance for future generations to enjoy.

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Global Issues Innovation

Quality

www.avkuk.co.uk

Environment

Local Solutions

Northampton Office 8 Rushmills, Northampton, NN 4 7YB England, UK. Tel.: +44 (0) 1604 601188 Fax.: +44 (0) 1604 604818

Reliability

Chesterfield Office Colliery Close, Ireland Ind. Est., Staveley, Chesterfield, S43 3FH England, UK. Tel.: +44 (0) 1246 479100 Fax.: +44 (0) 1246 479200

y,

AVK UK

Global challenges demand local responses On the eve of this year’s Institute of Water conference, AVK UK Business Development Director, Kieran Fitzpatrick explains how the company addresses the twin themes of Global Issues and Local Solutions in a manner that enhances its ability to assist water utilities in the challenges they face.

AVK UK is part of the AVK Group - a global industrial group with 41 manufacturing sites serving sales companies in more than 80 countries.

features environmental concerns amongst the four ‘big issues’ that it intends to address - rightly so, and an area in which AVK has been proactive for several years now.

For the water utility customer, a statement such as this might not always be initially welcomed. It could, for example prompt thoughts as:

Here in the UK, for example, the Group took the opportunity for its brand new manufacturing facility it opened in Staveley, Chesterfield in 2007 to adopt a host of energy-saving features that enhanced the state-of-the-art manufacturing blue-print it had already turned into reality in Poland, Australia and China.

“If the AVK Group is so big and so ubiquitous, what time will it have for me and my particular concerns?”.

The answer to the question is: “All the time in the world” – and I am choosing my words carefully when I say that” To explain…

As part of the Group, AVK UK certainly has an international dimension. But it is also a company that is as local as the high street bank; one that knows its market from the inside, but can draw on Group resources to come up with solutions that meet the customer’s needs both today and tomorrow “Global Thinking and Local Action” is the phrase that sums it all up, which also happens to be one of the Group’s core values – in fact the one at the very top of the list.

State of the Art, energy saving, heat recirculation unit at AVK's factory in Staveley made in AVK partner factories in China or Poland; the critical elastomeric components such as seals and the vulcanised wedge are manufactured by rubber moulding specialist AVK Gummi in Denmark; and everything is brought together on local assembly lines (Corby for gate valves and hydrants, Hyde for fittings) using techniques, processes and equipment that have been tried, tested and applied in Group manufacturing sites internationally.

One example of that blend of the global and local working together is to be found in our product supply chain which, depending on the component concerned, could begin at any one of our local manufacturing sites around the world; but always operate in accordance with the Group’s quality standards, which are enforced globally under the supervision of AVK’s own quality staff.

This high degree of standardisation has been made possible by a modular approach to product design, which is centred on the Group’s technical division AVK Tech in Denmark. As a consequence AVK products use the same components worldwide, so we have one centrally controlled supply chain, a common route in which innovations are developed and consistent standards of design and quality.

Although components are sourced from the most optimal manufacturing site, in all major markets the assembly and test operations are usually carried out where the product will be used and therefore in accordance with that countries’ own standards and local market preferences.

But that doesn’t mean that a blanket uniformity is imposed from above; quite the opposite in fact, because the Group depends on input from its locally based businesses around the world to understand and respond to country-specific quality standards and market preferences.

To take the UK market as an example, castings are

This month’s Institute of Water conference

And the Corby plant has pioneered a carbon footprint monitoring programme that will benefit AVK and its customers alike as the need for carbon reduction works its way inexorably up the political agenda.

Nothing more global than the future of the planet, nothing more local than the flick of a switch – and at AVK we endeavour to be mindful of both.

The AVK website www.avkuk.co.uk provides full product information and datasheets, plus up-to-date Group news.

Contact Sales on 01604 601188.

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SCOTTWILSON

NI Water and Scott Wilson…

Scott Wilson, with it’s wealth of wastewater experience, assists Northern Ireland Water fulfil environmental obligations by providing solutions for sensitive projects along the North Coast.

The North Coast in Northern Ireland is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is recognised as a premier tourist location, attracting thousands of visitors yearly to locations such as the world famous Giant’s Causeway. Previously, wastewater treatment for the coastal towns of Castlerock, Portrush and Portstewart involved only preliminary treatment and discharge to the sea through short sea outfalls, while in Coleraine and Articlave, treated effluent was discharged to the tidal stretch of the River Bann. The area includes four of Northern Ireland’s most popular beaches and experiences significant population increases during the summer months.

The Project At a cost of £45m and spanning 16km along the coast, this contract was the most complex EU Urban Wastewater Treatment and EU Bathing Waters Directives compliance scheme to be undertaken by Northern Ireland Water.

Construction of the North Coast Scheme got underway in 2005, although Scott Wilson has been involved with the scheme long term with the design team devising the “skeleton” of the now completed scheme, some 15 years earlier. This earlier strategic work included identification of sites for the treatment works, pumping stations, long sea outfall and the pipeline linkages between these elements.

The project also needed to accommodate future growth in terms of residential, commercial, tourism and industrial development to the year 2030.

WWTW Design The demands placed on the new sewerage system fluctuate seasonally due to tourism. Within the design of the new wastewater treatment works, measures were taken to ensure effective removal

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of possible fats, oils and greases (F.O.G.) that could enter the sewerage system from increased restaurant business during peak tourist seasons. As a result, systems such as a dedicated F.O.G. removal system and a fully-automated hot and cold wash system for the inlet screens were incorporated into the design. The state-of-the-art treatment works can treat up to 54 megalitres of wastewater a day.

Sympathetic Design – Pumping Stations & Pipelines The 16 pumping stations contained within the scheme have been designed as a “cascade” system, where the smallest pumping stations pump to terminal pumping stations in each town which in turn transfer flows to the WWTW. The main pumping stations are situated at prominent locations along the coast or within town centre locations. For this reason, Scott Wilson developed aesthetically pleasing solutions which integrate effortlessly with their surroundings and add amenity benefit to the area n Dhu Varren Pumping Station incorporates much-needed public conveniences with baby and water sports changing facilities n Causeway Street Pumping Station is largely buried and creatively landscaped to provide an attractive area n The new roof of Lansdowne pumping station forms a public viewing platform towards the coast.

To promote sustainable construction, many of the pumping stations were constructed using pre-cast concrete segmental shafts, promoting an environmentally-friendlier means of building, minimising the number of construction vehicles

Craigtownmore WwTW and the amount of spoil removed from site.

Trenchless technology was utilised where possible during the installation of the 25km of pipeline, reducing the environmental impact and minimising disruption to traders and road users; techniques involved sliplining, microtunnelling, pipejack and auger bore.

The installation of the 1,200m outfall pipe, using two off-shore rigs, was carried out by a specialist marine company. The route of the outfall was carefully selected following consultation with statutory bodies to ensure no impact on any significant, rare or inter-tidal plant, marine life and animal communities.

The complexities surrounding the award winning North Coast Wastewater Scheme meant that meticulous planning and preparation was required, which resulted in the scheme going into operation in 2007, ahead of the main bathing season.

Now with a truly modern sewage collection and treatment system, the North Coast area can enjoy the benefits of higher quality bathing waters for many years to come.

VERDER

DOES YOUR PUMP SUPPLIER TICk ALL THE BOxES?

As an industry at the forefront of climate change that contributes around 1% of national GHG emissions*, it’s no surprise that things are changing quickly in the water sector. Many of these developments are driven by legislation.

For the first time ever, OFWAT has included a requirement within the Periodic Review 2009 process for all water companies to report not only on their operational carbon footprint, but also the embodied carbon impact of their operations and investment decisions.

As a supplier, Verder is committed to helping you meet these requirements by supporting the supply chain across the four key areas: operational, embodied, supply chain and product carbon footprinting. To make it easier for water companies to scrutinise their supply chain and be carbon pro-active, we have prepared some key points to help clients choose the most sustainable pumping solutions.

PRODUCT 1. Has sustainability been designed into the product components themselves?

For example, the use of standard drives and lower overall component count simplifies product, reduces weight and keeps unnecessary costs down.

Seal-less design eliminates the potential failure of shaft sealing, providing zero leakage, and full secondary containment to protect the workforce and environment should a problem occur.

2. Do the products you’re using include total air gap separation?

Other specific design features you need to look out for include total air gap separation which means pump and drive are totally separated to eliminate potential for cross contamination of product and make maintenance easier.

3. Are you getting the best possible longevity from your products?

Improved rotor and hose configuration can increase hose life by 40%, reduce power requirement and eliminate overhung loads. For example Verder’s L10 bearing life on pump and drive is in excess of 50,000 hours. The overall effect is improved reliability, reduced component count over the life time of the unit and reduced whole life time costs.

SUPPLY CHAIN 4. Is your supplier UK based?

Are the products from your suppliers designed, manufactured and supported from the UK? As well as the obvious lower carbon footprint implications, using a UK based manufacturer provides local access to key personnel and inward domestic investment. Distribution of manufactured products from the UK to the UK also has less environmental impact.

WASTE 5. Is your supplier environmentally responsible?

Does your supplier offer innovative designs such as smaller products that require less material, take up less space in smaller plant rooms and reduce stock holding. A further advantage is reduced packing and shipment costs.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY & RECYCLING 6. Is there a commitment to ongoing research and development?

To demonstrate our commitment to research and development for example, Verder has achieved ISO14001 – a recognised standard for an organisation’s environmental management system. Research into environmental impact is executed continuously in close collaboration with authoritative national institutions such as TNO (the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research), the German Jenoptik and the University of Leeds (UK). We take our

environmental responsibility seriously and want to help clients in all the industries in which we work including water to embrace more sustainable solutions that are better for industry and our planet.”

7. Does your supplier measure its carbon footprint?

Manufacturers can obtain carbon footprint reports to assess their current performance as well as get advice on ways to continuously improve their impact. The report takes into account gas and electricity energy consumption, as well as the impact of company vehicles and water usage.

The total emissions are then split by those under the direct control of the supplier (Scope 1), those within their indirect control (Scope 2) and everything else (Scope 3).

Verder has completed such a report and it found that the majority of our emissions are outside of our control, such as employee commuting and outsourced activities, but we are already working with partners on solutions for these aspects as well as improving the activities within our control. The undertaking of this report has given us so much useful information on where and how we need to improve our carbon footprint, we are taking it to the next level by commissioning a product footprinting exercise to ensure our products are performing in the best possible way to help reduce our customer’s carbon footprint.

*http://www.water.org.uk/home/policy/ climate-change/mitigation

Whitehouse street Hunslet Leeds LS10 1AD Tel: +44 (0) 113 222 0250 Fax: +44 (0)113 246 5649 E: info@verder.co.uk Web: www.verder.co.uk

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1

Kent Joins Together to use Water Wisely A seminar to debate water efficiency in Kent attracted 140 delegates from across the county, including representatives from councils, water companies, housing developers and environmental groups.

The average person in the South East uses about 160 litres of water every day, while at the same time the region is one of the driest in the UK. The seminar discussed water efficiency at a national level and then looked at the many successful projects in action in Kent.

The event held at Ashford International Hotel on Monday 12 April 2010 was arranged by the Institute of Water and the Kent Water Demand Management Group.

David Walton, 2009/10 President of the Institute of Water South East, said: “Kent is one of the areas of the UK where water is most scarce, with limited resource availability from rivers and reservoirs, and

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most of our water held in underground aquifers.

“During long periods of dry weather Kent can suffer from water shortages. It is important that we work together to find ways of not wasting water so we can secure supplies in the county not only today but for the future. This future is increasingly important considering the ambitious plans for growth and the impacts of a changing climate.”

Kevin Lynes, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development at Kent County Council, said: “We have 100,000 more residents in Kent than two decades ago and this development will continue over the next 20 years, which gives us a challenge to ensure there is enough water,

but we can embrace the challenge and work together to meet it.

“Water is a critical subject for the county’s future.

Not just for water companies, but for the public sector, private companies, in our own homes and communities. I hope we can come back again in 12 months and say that ‘We have made a difference for the county.’”

Jacob Tompkins, Managing Director of Waterwise, said: “Kent is doing some of the best work relating to water efficiency compared to other parts of the UK and this seminar is an example of just how high up the agenda this important issue is for the county.

FEATURE:WATER EFFICIENCY

1

Speakers. Back row left to right: David Walton, Gemma Avory, Trevor Bishop, and Kevin Lynes.

Front row left to right: Jacob Tomkins, Laurienne Tibbles, Alison Murphy, and Ian McCathy.

2

Alison Murphy

3

Trevor Bishop

“On average there is less water available in the county than Italy, Spain, and Greece, so it is very important that we all continue working together to ensure water is used wisely.”

2

3

“On average there is less water available in the county than Italy, Spain, and Greece, so it is very important that we all continue working together to ensure water is used wisely.”

Across Kent high water efficiency standards will be required for new homes and a number of projects are taking place to improve existing homes.

These include: installing water efficient showers and taps, retrofitting older toilets so they have a dual flush option and providing customers with information about how they can be water efficient at home and in the garden.

Presentations from this event are available to view on the Archived Events section of the website.

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NI Water's rural wastewater investment programme Lean thinking, innovation and continuous improvements help Northern Ireland Water surpass targets on its Rural Wastewater Programme and deliver widespread environmental benefits across Northern Ireland.

CASE STUDY

In 2008 Northern Ireland Water embarked on its ‘Rural Wastewater Investment Programme’ (RWwIP), an initial two-year project aimed at upgrading a series of small wastewater treatment works and septic tanks across rural Northern Ireland. With a budget of £10m, the main objective of the programme was to improve the quality of discharge to local watercourses and bring about significant environmental benefits for rural communities. Although a complex and logistically-challenging contract, NI Water and its contract team - BSG Civil Engineering, Williams Industrial Services and McAdam Design - employed a series of forward thinking project management techniques and construction innovations to complete a target of 40 sites three months ahead of schedule.

With the cost savings made, the team went on to successfully commission a total of 44 sites by the end of March 2010. Now with additional funding granted of £4.3m, the team is looking to instil even more innovations to make further cost savings and complete as many sites as possible for the reduced third-year budget.

RWwIP project team pictured at their completed 40th site – three months ahead of target

Background Approximately 600,000 people, around one third of Northern Ireland’s total population, live in rural Northern Ireland. Some of the wastewater infrastructure servicing these areas – which pre-dates the establishment of both Northern Ireland Water and its predecessor Water Service – was designed to service only a handful of properties. In many cases the treatment facilities consist of open concrete holding tanks dating back to the 1960s, which over the years have become increasingly ineffective; struggling to cope with the demands of rural population growth and more stringent discharge standards.

The project

A team of experienced local subcontractors work under the main joint venture contractors, BSG and WIS, to cover the whole of Northern Ireland. These key elements of the supply chain bring with them even further local knowledge and enabled the main JV contractors to hit the ground running with construction in November 2008, only four months after award of contract.

The Integrated Team

The Rural Wastewater Investment Programme represents a package of work being undertaken by Northern Ireland Water to refurbish wastewater treatment facilities in hamlets and villages across Northern Ireland where the population is below 250 people. The aim of the programme is simple – to upgrade as many of the old works as possible, to meet standards set by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), within the budget allocated.

NI Water (Engineering Procurement):

BSG Civil Engineering:

Civil Engineering and Design

The approach

Williams Industrial Services (WIS):

M&E and Process Design; Operations Training Provider

The NEC Option B project is being undertaken by NI Water in partnership with a consortium of Northern Ireland-based companies – Williams Industrial Services (WIS), BSG Civil Engineering (BSG) and McAdam Design – who have the extensive design, civil engineering, M&E and process expertise along with

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invaluable local supplier links and the geographical knowledge required to successfully execute the scheme in an efficient, cost-effective manner.

instituteofwater.org.uk

NI Water (Operations):

End User

McAdam Design:

Kee Process: TOT Technical (NI):

Client

Technical Support and Land Liaison

Process and Training Partner to WIS Design, Supply and Installation of Steelwork

Northern Ireland WATER Design In a bid to get the project moving as quickly as possible and maintain significant momentum, NI Water and its Consultants, Belfast-based McAdam Design, stipulated a standardised design for all the wastewater treatment solutions. With support from wastewater treatment specialists Kee Process, the JV put forward a Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) solution, with units differing only in terms of size to suit the varying populations. All of the new RBCs are designed to allow for a minimum of 10% residential growth in each area.

In a bid to determine realistic standards required for such a variety of small works (5 – 250 PE), the NI Water project team meet regularly with the NIEA to discuss the programme of work and examine the watercourses affected by each works. This proactive approach ensures that the design solution for each new works is optimised to obtain the consent standards stipulated by the environmental regulator.

This involved gathering information on NIEA consent standards, land ownership details, population figures, existing power supplies, access issues etc and determining the most appropriate treatment solution for each site.

Once the relevant data is analysed, any ‘good-to-go’ sites are labelled green and passed to the JV to allow them to begin site investigation work. Sites with only minor issues are coloured amber and those with more serious problems are marked red. The team meet every two weeks to discuss progress, address any problems and re-evaluate issues so that amber sites are constantly turning green - ensuring fluidity of work for contractor and guaranteeing contract spend for NI Water.

Project management is enhanced by the use of a dedicated project Sharepoint site – a centrally-located information network to which each member of the team has remote access. This acts as an integral information and communications tool onto which every team member uploads relevant data i.e. land ownership maps; design layouts; progress reports; approved drawings; construction programme, electricity connection details; commissioning data, health & safety audits etc. Tasks are recorded after each bi-weekly meeting and are completed/reviewed in the two weeks following.

Land liaison A crucial part of ensuring that the RWwIP runs to programme is communicating effectively with the many landowners affected by the scheme. In this respect a dedicated project communications manager has been appointed to the scheme. Equipped with detailed site layout maps, the communications manager meets with landowners well in advance of any works taking place to discuss what will be involved and to talk through any problems or concerns they may have.

before Before and After shots of typical RBC site

After

To minimise land purchases – which are expensive and time consuming ¬– the team design the new RBCs to fit within the existing NI Water land ownership where possible. If this isn’t feasible, a land swap will be pursued with the owner, leaving buying land as the last route taken. On some of the schemes completed to date, buying additional land was unfortunately necessary.

However, early and sustained communications with landowners has meant that an agreement for early entry for construction to take place (prior to any legal issues being finalised) has been achieved. This has allowed the project to maintain its momentum and most importantly has kept the supply chain working effectively.

Lean thinking and continuous improvements Throughout the first two years of the RWwIP, NI Water and its contract team have striven to make the design and installation process as efficient as possible. The innovative approach has realised: • Fully integrated team – client/design/civil/M&E/lands/operational end user • RBC supplier brought on board as partner to the JV contractors – substantial savings negotiated

Challenges The project has not been without its challenges: logistically the WwTWs cover an area of over 13,500 sq km and operationally, the small footprint works must remain fully functional whilst the new equipment is being installed. The latter is by no means an easy task as in many cases the land surrounding the NI Water-owned infrastructure is too small to accommodate the new RBC tanks and supporting equipment. To compound the situation, at many sites there is also insufficient electrical capacity to power the new works and so new 3-phase power supplies are required – both of these issues have the potential to delay construction and commissioning.

Project management

• Standardised design developed for all RBC sites • Just-in-time delivery of RBC units • Electrical panels and kiosks assembled in specially-developed local construction factory and brought to site as whole units • In- house design by civil contractor has significantly reduced costs • Process solutions developed to fit in with existing site footprints where possible to minimise land purchases • Optimised hydraulic design by contractor to reduce excavation and need for backfilling/ reinstatement • Combination of desludge manifolds on multiple unit sites to reduce costs • Simple hose reels installed which are easily transported

Over 100 sites were initially identified as needing urgent refurbishment work and although each of the sites is relatively small, a tremendous amount of planning, co-ordination and communication is required to undertake the job in the most efficient way possible.

• Tankering costs kept to a minimum through successful co-ordination with NI Water Operations

In terms of getting projects to site quickly and fulfilling budget spend for Years 1 & 2, the RWwIP team devised a special ‘traffic-light’ system to identify which of the 100 WwTWs posed the least complications.

• Site layouts with shortest access routes developed to reduce the extent of roads and paved areas

• M&E plant common to all sites thus significantly reducing levels of spares required by NI Water Operations – spares kept locally at WIS stores

• Reuse of materials on site

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• Precast headwall brought to site - eliminates need for concrete pours • Standardised easy-to-understand handover documentation requiring minimum training for operators – training provided in house by WIS and Kee Process • Tanker points strategically placed to allow spillages to go back to head of works • Road layouts produced to allow natural run-off thereby reducing costs on installing site drainage

project in a robust and resourceful manner. This forward-thinking approach has given an excellent foundation to embark on a third year of this strategic upgrade project. Despite the budget being reduced by almost 20%, NI Water and its contract team are confident that their innovative approach and dedication to constantly improve can produce even further excellent results.

Summary of outcomes in years 1 & 2 • Excellent team relationships

• Maintenance-free sites with stoned/concrete areas reduces operational costs to NI Water

• Actual costs are 8.5% lower than asset management predications

• Standardised process, standardised layouts, standardised control philosophy and standardised M&E plant used throughout contract

• High standard of site finishes

• All training provided by in-house project management team (WIS & Kee)

Greener solutions At some of the more remote sites, and as an alternative to the RBC solution, NI Water and its project team, working with Rural Generation Ltd, are pursuing the use of willow plantations as competent treatment processes. Three sites are currently being investigated with landowner negotiations at an advanced stage. Although much more lengthy to implement, the willow plantations act as very effective and robust bio-filters, converting the useful nutrients in the wastewater effluent into wood which is then harvested for fuel.

• Cost savings have allowed 44 sites to be completed against a target of 40 • Positive feedback from NI Water end user (Operations) • Tight NIEA discharge standards being met – in many cases surpassing NIEA expectations • Outstanding Health & Safety records • Extensive environmental benefits for local communities – reduced odours, flooding etc • 44 watercourses significantly improved • Widespread favourable feedback from landowners • Meeting a challenging programme of work whilst delivering excellent value for money • Secured £4.3m budget to undertake work for a third year

Achievements With so many factors and unknowns about each particular site to be considered, the Rural Wastewater Investment Programme had the potential to encounter problems from the outset. However by embracing innovation, instilling effective communications and pursuing cost savings at every opportunity, NI Water and its contract team have been able to execute this

McAdam Design T: 028 9040 2000 F: 028 9079 4144 E: admin@mcadamdesign.co.uk W: www.mcadamdesign.co.uk

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BSG Civil Engineering T: 028 7964 3610 F: 028 7964 3173 E: info@bsgcivilengineering.co.uk

Williams Industrial Services T: 028 9083 8999 F: 028 9084 2211 E: sales@wis-ni.com W: www.wis-ni.com

WATER UTILITY SOLUTION PROVIDER: Water Pumps > Wastewater Pumps & Packages > Dosing & Disinfection Systems

Wastewater and water supply united - See the Bigger Picture Grundfos Water Utility Solutions represents the new wave in public water supply and wastewater. We cover every step in the network and flow.

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That’s the Bigger Picture, and it translates to bigger benefits, lower life-cycle costs and greater sustainability all-round.

www.water-utility.grundfos.com

Dealing with Emerging Contaminants in Water Supply Water companies have a regulatory requirement to carry out risk assessments of water supply, to identify the potential for contamination within the catchment, and the performance of treatment for removing contaminants to protect the health of the consumer.

These risk assessments are carried out using a Drinking Water Safety Plan (DWSP) framework for individual systems, and are identifying chemical or microbial contaminants arising from industrial or agricultural activity, or from sewage effluent discharges. Many of these are organic micropollutants which may have health implications, or exceed drinking water quality standards, at the very low concentrations (µg/l or ng/l levels) found.

The DWSP approach needs to identify the potential for contamination of water sources with these chemicals, and ensure that control measures are in place to mitigate the risks, either by preventing contamination or by removing the contaminants in water treatment. The control measure can also include monitoring of raw and treated waters for the contaminants.

Pesticides have been identified as potential contaminants in water for many years. In the EU, the regulations are laid out in the Council Directive 98/83/EC “on the quality of water intended for human consumption”. This specifies that the concentration of individual pesticides should not exceed 0.1 µg/l, the total

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concentration of pesticides should not exceed 0.5 µg/l and the water should be “wholesome”.

These standards are incorporated in regulations of Member States, including the UK. Many pesticides such as the urons, acid herbicides and triazine compounds were identified in the 1990s, and treatment implemented to deal with these. The recent implementation of DWSPs and the development of new products have raised the awareness of other pesticides of emerging concern, some of which are not as readily removed by water treatment. Metaldehyde, used in slug pellets, is of particular concern in this respect at the present time, but other biocides such as clopyralid, ethofumesat, metazachlor, propyzamide, quinmerac and triclopyr are also being identified as potential problems in meeting the pesticide standard, although not necessarily in relation to toxicity or wholesomeness at the very low concentrations occurring. Because removal of some of these compounds by water treatment is ineffective or uncertain, control at source through guidance on application may be the more appropriate control measure.

Other organic micropollutants of emerging concern

include perfluoro-octane sulphonate (PFOS), used historically in fire-fighting foams, and endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) such as steroid oestrogens from pharmaceuticals and bisphenol A, used in the production of some plastics and resins.

Some naturally occurring organic micropollutants, particularly the cyanotoxins and taste and odour compounds from algal growth, can also be a concern in water supply, and need to be included in the DWSP approach.

There is a need to monitor the water quality for compounds of concern, both in the untreated raw water and in the finished product, and remove compounds that will exceed the regulated limits. The DWSP should identify which of the very wide range of organic micropollutants need to be monitored for a particular site. At the present time, on-line systems for monitoring of organic micropollutants are not widely available, and are expensive and complex.

Such systems are therefore used only for highest risk sites, and for other treatment works, monitoring by manual sampling and laboratory analysis would be used, supported by liaison with environmental and agricultural agencies, and with users of the chemicals, principally farmers.

FEATURE:WATER QUALITY

By Jörgen Jönsson, The WRc Group Jörgen joined WRc in June 2008 as an Environmental Chemist and provides expertise in environmental fate modeling, the transport of organic and inorganic molecules in soil, water, sediment, and inorganic chemistry. He has been involved at a technical level in various projects related to drinking water quality (taste and odour and alternative filter media), reduction in chemical usage in the water industry, use of disinfectants, contamination monitoring, the determination of CSO impact zone on the River Closet and provided advice to the National Centre for Ecotoxicology (NCET).

Pesticides have been identified as potential contaminants in water for many years.

Generally, water treatment can be highly effective at removing most organic micropollutants, provided design and operating conditions are appropriate. Activated carbon is used in the granulated (GAC) or powdered (PAC) form. PAC is dosed in to the water and removed by subsequent treatment. It can be implemented as needed, and may be more cost effective compared with GAC for intermittent contamination. However, GAC is generally the preferred option for most treatment works, as it is easier to handle and provides greater security through continuous use. It is used in purpose built adsorbers, and is regenerated when the adsorption capacity has been reached and breakthrough of the contaminants from the GAC bed occurs. The key factors which determine the effectiveness of this treatment process are competitive adsorption from background natural organic matter, GAC type, adsorber design (particularly empty bed contact time, EBCT) and the GAC regeneration regime. The increasing costs of GAC treatment and the wider range of GAC types available have made it important to procure the most appropriate GAC for the application. Furthermore, optimised regeneration has become a key factor for cost

savings on already tight operational budgets.

As an alternative or complement to adsorption

by GAC, oxidation using ozone, UV, chlorine, or advanced oxidations processes (AOPs) can be used to reduce the concentration of contaminants.

Chlorine, widely used as a disinfectant in water treatment, can be effective for some pesticides.

However, it is generally not used for this application because of its very limited capability for degradation of organic micropollutants.

Ozone is commonly used for degradation of contaminants, reduction in natural colour and as a disinfectant. Some organic micropollutants are more amenable to ozonation than activated carbon adsorption. Ozone is therefore often used in combination with GAC to deal with a wide range of organic micropollutants. The increase in the GAC bed life and decreased operational costs can offset the cost for the upstream ozonation, to provide overall a more secure and cost effective treatment.

The use of UV has become increasingly popular for disinfection purpose, particularly for the inactivation of Cryptosporidium, but UV also has the potential for degradation of pesticides and

other organic compound. The UV dose needed for degradation is however significantly higher than for disinfection only.

Advanced oxidation processes utilise combinations of hydrogen peroxide and ozone or UV to produce the highly reactive hydroxyl radical (HO·) which can rapidly degrade many organic micropollutants. The use of AOPs is not widespread for water treatment at the present time, but is developing rapidly.

WRc is currently carrying out work for UK Water Industry Research Ltd, on behalf of the UK water companies, to evaluate the removal of metaldehyde and other emerging pesticides by water treatment.

The work is aimed at addressing many of the issues highlighted above and to help provide a balanced approach to dealing with problem pesticides, taking into account control through application as well as removal by treatment.

For further information please contact Jörgen Jönsson at Jorgen.Jonsson@wrcplc.co.uk

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Providing simpler solutions for Chemical D Gee is one of the UK’s largest and fully self-sufficient providers of total solutions in chemical dosing for the water, wastewater and industrial effluent.

We design and manufacture chemical dosing plant and systems that are widely used for the treatment of water and waste process in all market sectors.

We have been excelling in the necessary chemical, mechanical and electrical engineering skills for more than 30 years and offer extensive knowledge, skills and attributes required for your application.

The industry requirements have meant that we have extensive knowledge of chemical storage and dosing specifications involving, dual contained pipework, BS4994 tanks, WIMES and first class engineering practice.

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We engineer and supply bespoke solutions, systems and techniques to suit the client’s requirements and specifications for their application.

Gee and Company have achieved 100% quality evaluation for both our management systems and onsite assessments – figures significantly above the industry average.

We have worked with major suppliers with an understanding of all the modern communication protocols including ProfiBus, Ethernet and SMS. We demonstrate the capability to offer process recommendations in line with your enquiry.

We possess in-house software programmers, who are conversant with the codes of all the major PLC/HMI suppliers within the industry.

We have produced signature designs which have been adopted by a number of leading water utilities.

Environment Our systems are designed to minimise impact to the environment and ensure we continue to provide simple clear and effortless solutions for Chemical Dosing and Storage Tanks.

Reliability All Gee products are fully factory tested by qualified Mechanical and Electrical Engineers. We use quality products to ensure you achieve excellent results.

Our ethos before, during and after sales service provides you with the peace of

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al Dosing and Storage Tanks mind that your product is maintained by qualified and experienced Service Engineers.

We are Achilles Verified and ISO 9001:2008 accredited for our excellent performance in quality, health, safety and environment.

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For more information and to keep up to date with all the services we can provide sign up to our website and recieve regular updates at

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ITT Water & Wastewater is an innovative company leading the way in providing total solutions in moving and treating water and wastewater within any market.

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With four market leading brands, supported by a highly skilled and knowledgeable team; we can deliver the right solution for your business.

We’ve been providing innovative treatment solutions since 1948, with an extensive product range designed to keep your treatment business moving effectively and efficiently.

From the proven performance of the 3000 series covering the vast majority of duties including primary and secondary treatment, to the highly effective N-Pump range for pumping most types of sludge, there’s a Flygt solution suitable for your needs.

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Project8

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r nt om ou e at .c e tm s nt Se trea ilitie e ll b tm fu pa ea ca tttr .i w w w

We’re at the heart of pumping Passion and expertise go hand in hand

It’s what drives us to keep challenging convention.

Why we’re always seeking a better way. Striving to maintain unmatched expertise. Constantly leading the industry.

From designing each part ourselves to the scientific methods we adopt to ensure operational precision by a complete understanding of the fluids our pumps handle, their contaminants and viscosity.

To deliver optimum performance at lowest possible lifecycle costs. And give you complete peace of mind.

VALIDATED UV SYSTEMS SYSTEMS FOR FOR VALIDATED UV MUNICIPAL APPLICATIONS MUNICIPAL APPLICATIONS As evolve, so sotoo toodoes doestheir theirresistance resistanceagainst againsttraditional traditional As micro-organisms micro-organisms evolve, methods of treatment. treatment. atg atg UV UV has has developed developedaarange rangeof ofvalidated validatedsystems systems methods of that fully comply comply with with the the requirements requirements of of the the US US EPA EPA UVDGM UVDGM 2006 2006 that fully (worlds’ strictest validation validation standard) standard) && DWI DWI Guidelines GuidelinesFebruary February2010.

2010. (worlds’ strictest atg UV Technology has a range of UV systems that atg UVbeen Technology hasspecifically a range of UV that have designed forsystems the drinking have been designed specifically for the drinking water industry, and are fully compliant with the water industry, andUS are fully compliant with the requirements of the EPA Ultraviolet Disinfection requirements of the US EPA Ultraviolet Disinfection Guidance Manual 2006 (The worlds strictest Guidance Manual 2006 (The worlds strictest validation standard), and the recent Guidelines validation standard), and the recent Guidelines released by the Drinking Water Inspectorate released by the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI), with regards to Validation, RED Dose, Log (DWI), with regards to Validation, RED Dose, Log Reduction and UV system specifications.

Reduction and UV system specifications.

atg Technology have have vast vast experience experience in in atg UV UV Technology providing Validated UV UV systems systems to to the the municipal municipal providing Validated industry worldwide. Using Using the the mandate mandate of of the the industry worldwide.

US atg UV UV have have designed designed and and developed developed US EPA, EPA, atg a range of of UV UV systems systems specifically specifically for for a large large range municipal applications that that are are fully fully compliant compliantwith with municipal applications industry regulations and and have have been been independently independently industry regulations validated to demonstrate demonstrate performance performance under under aa validated to variety of operating operating conditions. conditions. variety of atg Technology’s in-depth in-depth working working knowledge knowledge atg UV UV Technology’s of EPA UVDGM UVDGM 2006, 2006, and and vast vast experience experience of the the US US EPA in validated systems systems to to drinking drinking water water in supplying supplying validated

and waste water companies worldwide uniquely and waste uniquely places atg water UV as companies an industry worldwide expert on Ultraviolet places atg UVfor asmunicipal an industryapplications, expert on Ultraviolet disinfection including disinfection for municipal including Validation, Log Reduction,applications, RED Dose, installation Validation, Log Reduction, RED Dose, installation into existing infrastructures, ongoing industry into existing infrastructures, ongoing industry regulation and product development. regulation and product development. atg UV’s product range offers fully validated atg UV’s product range offers fully validated systems that deliver a 1 - 5 log reduction of systems that deliver a 1 - 5 log reduction of Cryptosporidium for flows as small as 10 m3/hr Cryptosporidium for flows as small as 10 m3/hr to over 2000 M3/hr within a single high output, to over 2000 M3/hr within a single high output, small footprint, medium or low pressure UV small footprint, medium or low pressure UV system. For larger flows, systems are offered as system. For larger flows, systems are offered as packages, utilising units placed in either series or packages, utilising units placed in either series or parallel configurations. parallel configurations.

Asfootprint footprintisisnormally normallyaakey keyfactor factordue duetotolimited limited As space within withinpipe pipegalleries, galleries,atg atgUV UVTechnology’s Technology’s space market leading leading designs, designs,mean meanUV UVsystems systemscan can market be installed installed either eithervertically, vertically,ororhorizontally. horizontally. The The be degree ofof redundancy redundancy isisdetermined determinedby byatg atgUV UV degree engineers working working with with plant plant designers, designers,and andaa engineers dutyassist/ assist/duty dutystandby standbyarrangement arrangementisistypical typicalofof duty mostmajor majormunicipal municipalinstallations installationsworldwide. worldwide. most Onceinstalled, installed,the thedelivered delivereddose doseisiscontrolled controlledbyby Once continuously measuring measuringthe theinputs inputsofofflow, flow,water water continuously transmittance and and lamp lamp intensity intensityusing usingaastatestatetransmittance of-the-art SPECTRA SPECTRA Control Control panel panel which whichuses uses of-the-art Microprocessor technology technology that that can can be be easily easily Microprocessor integrated into into existing existing systems systems communicating communicating integrated through MODBUS MODBUS oror PROFIBUS. PROFIBUS. Additionally Additionally through the SPECTRA’s SPECTRA’s on on board board data data logger logger allows allows the engineerstotodownload downloadperformance performancedata datatotoaaPC PC engineers orlaptop laptopfor forreview reviewwhen whenneeded. needed. or

Two atg UV Validated Drinking Water Systems in South Africa.

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atgUV UVsystems systemsallalluse usepower powerswitching switchingtoto vary atg vary lamppower powertotooptimise optimiseboth bothpower power consumption lamp consumption and lamp lamplife. life.A Aleading leadingrobust robustmechanised mechanised and wipersystem systemkeeps keepsthe theoptical opticalpath pathfree freefrom from wiper contamination,and anda athird thirdparty partymonitor monitorcan can contamination, be inserted to verify the performance of the be inserted to verify the performance of the Ultravioletsystem. system.

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UV are happy presenttototechnical technicalgroups groupsand andengineering engineering totopresent teamswishing wishing learn more about UV technology, teams toto learn more about UV technology, validationand andthe theDWI DWI February 2010 Guidelines validation February 2010 Guidelines onUltraviolet Ultravioletdisinfection. disinfection. on

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ADAS

Providing a shared-use network The Demonstration Test Catchments (DTC) project is a joint Defra, Environment Agency (EA) and Welsh Assembly Government (WAG) initiative seeking to develop an evidence base for more generic application to the management of river catchments across England and Wales.

The programme will initially set up three instrumented catchments with an integrative data infrastructure to provide a shared-use network as the framework for collaborative investigation and analysis. The overall objective is to provide robust evidence to test the hypothesis that it is possible to reduce, cost effectively, the impact of agricultural diffuse water pollution on ecological function while maintaining food security through the implementation of multiple on-farm measures. High resolution, flow-proportional sampling will be undertaken alongside in situ analysis using commercially-available multiple parameter water quality sensors and analysers for key determinants including phosphorus and nitrogen species, ammomnia, dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, chlorophyll and sediment. A nested experimental design will be deployed, consisting of control and manipulated micro-catchments (~1-3 km2) upstream of sub-catchment monitoring stations (~10 km2) in order to maximise the scope for demonstrating positive water quality and biological response to on-farm mitigation in the short-term.

All monitoring and sampling equipment will be controlled by a sensor web platform permitting triggering, data interrogation and presentation.

Data time series will be collected at regular intervals, quality assured and transposed to a data repository. The research platform seeks to underscore the benefit of using sensor webs to control multiple monitoring stations collecting high quality data on multiple water quality parameters.

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Environmental Data Logging in Remote Scottish Locations Over 60 Senator+ datalogging systems are currently being used to collect, collate and transmit data about various environmental conditions in some of the remotest areas of Scotland, where traditional telecoms are unavailable or impractical.

can only be reached by various combinations of all-terrain four-wheel-drive vehicles, quad bikes and even hiking.

Reservoir levels, compensation channel levels and flows, and pipeline flow rates from treatment works to compensation returns all need to be monitored, but they can often be located in hard to access and non-GSM covered places. The Senator+, developed by HWM in conjunction with satellite communication specialist Wireless Innovation Ltd., is purposely designed for just such situations.

Fortunately, after the initial installation (easy with the all-in-one cabinet), the units are selfsustaining, and no subsequent maintenance has been needed or undertaken. Significantly, until now this monitoring was effectively impossible – requiring time-consuming and costly manual site visits for each individual reading at each location.

Where there is no infrastructure for more traditional telemetry services – no GSM/SMS signal, too remote for PSTN lines – the Senator+ is able to use its MicroSAT satellite data transmission technology and solar-charged battery power to provide reliable and maintenance-free datalogging services. Scottish Water has been using the product extensively to retrieve important environmental monitoring information remotely: many of the installations

Now, the satellite system transmits recorded data as often as every 5 minutes, straight to the user’s computing device of choice, wherever they may be. At the heart of the system is the Multi-Channel Senator+ data logger; each logger records from up to 9 separate inputs, can store up to 48,000 individual readings and has programmable alarm condition parameters. The unit is also available with more traditional cellular or PSTN communication options.

A New Easy to Install, Time Saving Delayed Valve Launched by Tyco Waterworks Tyco Waterworks is pleased to announce the availability of the new EBCO Delayed Valve (EDV), developed and manufactured to provide full flow replenishment of storage tanks used in high rise buildings, buildings with multiple outlets fed from storage tanks or from pumped systems.

This new delayed valve is packed full of time, energy and cost saving features. After extensive field trials, engineers have found that ease of installation is its most outstanding attribute. The Delayed Valve has been designed as a simple mechanical device, comes fully assembled and can be fitted easily and efficiently straight from the box, with no need to dismantle the unit before installation. For added efficiency, the adjustable delay valve design means that the positioning of the floats to provide the required delay can be carried out away from the tank.

This makes installation more convenient and reduces the possibility of spills and water damage during installation.

Technically, the design is based on the renowned and established EBCO equilibrium ball float valve and this new EDV incorporates the unique and patented ECOvalve fill control device. Allowing the

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valve to open fully and operate at full flow every fill cycle, means that trickling is eliminated, valve and pump wear is significantly reduced and running costs are kept to a minimum. Tyco Waterworks has shown that an energy saving of up to 80% can be achieved by installing the EDV. The robust and simple mechanical design can operate in tanks with walls sloping up to 5º and does not require precise vertical or horizontal levelling for the valve to function.

For added versatility, it is available in single float (fixed delay) or twin float (adjustable delay) versions. The adjustable twin float device is recommended for tank systems with a raised inlet or float valve housing, so the float can be adjusted to allow optimum main tank capacity.

Cost savings can also be made due to the fact that there is no need for ancillary equipment. In other products on the market, filters are often part of the design and not only do they add to the cost of the original job, but they need to be replaced regularly and require ongoing maintenance. The Tyco Waterworks delayed valves provide the perfect cost-effective ‘fit and forget’ solution.

EASTERNAREANEWS

1

2 1

James Hale - Mouchel, Steve Leigh – Groundbreaker Systems & Eastern Area Chairman

Joint event

2

The new Veolia Water Office, Hatfield

3

Kathryn Betts and Jo-Ann Lyon Veoila Water

3

By Stuart Woor

with Pipeline Industries Guild (PIG) and Institute of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) On 28 January a joint event was held with PIG and IMechE at the new Veolia Water premises within Hatfield, Hertfordshire. This was the first Institute of Water event to be held at this location which has a very interesting history. The Hatfield Business Park is constructed on the site previously occupied by British Aerospace and its preceding companies. The first commercial jet airliner, the de Havilland Comet, was constructed here.

The airfield runway and most of the original buildings have been replaced with new commercial properties and domestic housing. However, a few Art Deco style buildings have become listed and converted into new uses. Veolia Water’s neighbour was previously a huge aircraft hanger and runway control tower. This is now a hotel and fitness centre.

During the course of the evening the respective Institute Chair's provided a brief introduction to their Institute and previewed upcoming events.

This was a keynote address to introduce the new area theme for the year –‘The Customer Experience – Listen, Learn, Develop, Achieve’, and the new area events calendar was launched.

All events will focus on this theme, including a comprehensive Winter Seminar planned for November. Jeff Bishop, Operations Director for Veolia Water and the Eastern Area President, introduced his theme and explained that implementing the Customer Experience agenda is providing real tangible improvements for the Veolia Water customers and employees.

The Institute of Water provides a fantastic way to listen and learn from others experiences to

enable one-self to develop and achieve more.

The first presentation was provided by Veolia Water’s Jo-Ann Lyon (Contact Centre Manager) and Kathryn Betts (Director’s Office Improvement Manager). Veolia Water is aiming to become the best utility in the community by 2011. One of the goals is to reduce the need for customers to contact the company due to a problem occurring.

Research into the reasons why customers contact the company with complaints has identified the most common problems. Veolia Water is implementing changes to prevent these problems occurring in the first place.

Veolia Water is also improving the process for the occasions when customers do have to contact the company. All the typical reasons why a customer contacts the company are being examined and improved to provide a quick seamless experience for the customer. Other methods include increasing the information available on the company internet site to enable customers to locate information quickly themselves and obtain their billing information, or to provide meter readings etc.

All parts of Veolia Water are implementing a review process called ‘Gone Well? Not Gone Well?’ This provides an opportunity to examine problems with current processes, but also to celebrate successful events and enable good practice to be shared.

James Hale (Technical Delivery Manager for Wastewater) from Mouchel started the next presentation with several dramatic examples of flooding. Mouchel are working hard to implement methods to reduce the impact of these events.

In addition to the objective to improve the experience of the customers in risk areas, James briefed out The Pitt Review and the Flood and Water Management Bill.

Flood warning equipment has been installed for many years to provide prior warning of possible river flooding. However it has traditionally been more difficult to predict flooding from the waste and surface water pipe networks. Mouchel are implementing STUFF to provide prior warning of impending flooding from these pipe networks Short Term Urban Flood Forecasting.

The process starts with weather forecasting using Met Office information and radar rain detection.

Computer simulation models are utilised to predict the effect of this weather on the drainage networks.

Potential flood situations can then be predicted. The first action is to mobilise operatives to the precise risk areas to ensure the equipment, such as pumps and screens are operating as efficiently as possible, which may prevent flooding occurring.

In extreme conditions flood prevention may not be possible. The computer models will identify the properties at risk of being flooded. Prior warning can be provided to the occupants to enable them to take action to protect the property, using methods such as installing sandbags and sealing low level air vents. The Local Authority can plan and implement measures such as diverting traffic from affected routes and relocate people to safe locations. This early warning system has the potential to save many properties from damage and keep people safe.

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EASTERNAREANEWS

From left to right: Andrew Snelson, Steve Morley, Jeff Bishop, Guy Chalkley and Martin Ballard

World Water Day

By Dr Karen Gove

On March 22 the Eastern Area celebrated ‘World Environment Day’ with a seminar to analyse the asset management plan period (AMP5) for 2010 to 2015 – ‘What the Future Holds’.

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The Eastern Area were delighted to welcome 4 speakers from the water industry. Their presentations gave an insight in to the price review and agreement process with the Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT) and they embraced the Presidents Theme 2010 - ‘The Customer Experience’.

their operating costs and maintain their assets to the minimum cost necessary. Cambridge Water prepared its PR09 plan by producing a Strategic Direction Statement (SDS), which included a water demand statement, quality requirements (e.g. nitrate removal from raw water), achievable efficiencies and customer engagement.

The first speaker was Stephen Morley (Regulation Manager) from Cambridge Water, who gave a presentation on the Price Review Process. This documents how the water company proposes to finance the needs of its customers and stakeholders. All water companies have 4 key regulators which are: the Environment Agency, Drinking Water Inspectorate, Consumer Council for Water and OFWAT. The Environment Agency regulates water industry water use (e.g. future growth) and wasterwater quality. The Drinking Water Inspectorate monitors the quality of water produced (e.g. nitrates in raw water) and the Consumer Council for Water is the water industry watchdog. OFWAT sets the annual price limits for each water company, which allow efficient companies to finance their functions. It also provides companies with incentives to keep within

The next speaker was Ken Oswald (Head of Economic Regulation) at Northumbrian Water Limited (NWL). He gave a presentation on Satisfying Customers – the changing focus, which reviewed the changes water companies have experienced since privatisation in 1989 when they went from consumer to customer supply and treatment. The regulatory service has improved significantly and NWL customers are consistently scoring the company high for customer satisfaction, with overall mean scores of 8/10. However, there are still improvements to be made and Ken showed the audience a series of photographs illustrating some NWL and contractor mistakes. These included blocking a customer drive with barriers to cover a hole (without notification) and positioning a water meter internally behind a television cabinet!

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This could have been positioned outside if the employee or contractor had investigated the external pipework more thoroughly. NWL’s approach is to improve customer satisfaction by minimising service failure and its impacts through best practice implementation. So far NWL have held ‘right first time, everytime’ workshops across billing, metering and distribution functions, together with a ‘right first time’ mailbox for customers. The NWL strategic direction statement includes company performance targets, where all customers are satisfied with the service NWL provides and customers should have no cause for complaint. The 2020 goals regarding this include an average customer satisfaction score of 8.5; resolve 80% and 95% of contacts for operational issues and billing respectively at the first point of contact.

The third speaker was Guy Chalkley (Director of Finance) at Veolia Water Central (VWC), who presented on the Customer Experience and the Final Determination. During Veolia’s PR09 process OFWAT highlighted infrastructure serviceability as a key requirement of AMP5. This was due to the company’s historic performance,

EASTERNAREANEWS especially water delivery and pipe bursts (greater notification and leakage detection required). In maintaining serviceability, VWC performed very well, with compliance in respect to iron levels in water and distribution losses. In terms of OPEX efficiency, VWC has been placed in Band C Lower after the PR09 draft determination and therefore needs to achieve large efficiencies. To do this the company needs to acquire other contracts, share knowledge and change behaviour. So far the number of interruptions to supply (DG3) has reduced from 2,520 in 2008/9 to 1,663 in 2009/10, which is great progress. For the customer experience process, VWC hopes to understand customer requirements by providing an appropriate solution that satisfies the customer and strengthens their relationship.

The final speaker was Andrew Snelson (Economic Regulation Manager) from Anglian Water. His presentation concerned the principle investment areas for AMP5 within Anglian Water. The first area is water quality, which includes the replacement of 11,000 lead pipes in high risk zones, with phosphate dosing in medium risk areas. An environmental programme, which includes first time sewerage connections for 2,970 properties, flow compliance schemes at 55 wastewater treatment works and 80% enhanced sludge treatment. Growth investments, particularly the maintenance of the security supply index (SoSi), continued reduction in leakage and 124,000 new meter optants. The fourth investment area is growth provision, which includes the additional treatment capacity development at Anglian Water’s wastewater treatment works. The final investment area concerns service enhancement, where there will be relief from sewer flooding risk for 312 existing high risk properties and 52 low risk properties. There will also solutions for 346 external flooding problem sites and odour nuisance reduction at 91 sites. The key regulatory themes for AMP5 in Anglian Water are greater flexibility for companies to provide best value, develop a longer term focus (especially with regard to climate change) and sustainable water.

A range of interesting questions were asked at the end of the seminar and included questions on the polluter pays principle: why does the customer have to pay for additional water treatment when it has not caused the pollution? This particularly concerns nitrate pollution, it is very difficult to determine where it has come from and who has caused it. The presenters agreed that as a result the water companies have to treat the water and include additional treatment processes.

Differences in OFWAT’s determination for each water company were discussed in relation to water meters. For instance water metering has been included in Anglian Waters determination but not in the Cambridge Water Company final draft plan.

Stephen Morley replied that in the Cambridge area, there is a water supply surplus and OFWAT did not therefore believe that metering was necessary.

Andrew Snelson also told the audience that Anglian Water is in one of the driest parts of the country and metering is therefore deemed necessary by OFWAT to control and monitor supply.

Annual General Meeting

By Steve Leigh and Stuart Woor

The Eastern Area AGM was held on 22 March at the George Hotel in Huntingdon. Richard Graty began by welcoming everyone and Steve Leigh (Area Chair), announced this had been an epic year in every sense.

The area successfully met every challenge to finish stronger in knowledge, experience and perhaps best of all – in the bank balance!

2009 had been a transitional year for the Institute, with changes in the branding and marketing. It was also a transitional year for the Eastern Area with some established committee members “moving on”, and the new committee members looking forward to carry the baton through for the next generation.

Thanks were given to everyone who had contributed to the running of the Area. It is essential that the area remains dynamic and anticipates the changes within the water industry. We welcome the new members who will help us grow as individuals and as a “learning” Institution.

The Area has contributors from all elements of the Water Industry – Regulated Companies, Suppliers, Contractors and Consultants, all of whom have something to bring to the Institute.

During the AGM past President Richard Graty presented an extraordinary item to award an Institute Fellowship. The recipient Mike Webb has 38 years experience in the water industry and has been a member for 15 years. Mike has been Area Chair twice, will soon be the Area Forum Representative and has organised many events including a fantastic Formula 1 event at McLaren.

Mike expressed that it was a complete surprise and a pleasure to be honored with the Fellowship. Mike commented that this is the Institute for people and networking, not for just providing technical knowledge.

People are at the heart of this Institute and Mike gave thanks to all of the members that help to make the Institute so special. You can red more about this in Member News.

Area Treasurer, Pascal Harper, announced that area accounts were currently healthy due to fantastic support provided by the area sponsors. The area will now work hard to attract younger members as they are the future of the Institute and the Industry.

Additional aspirations for the area will be discussed with sponsors at a future committee meeting.

Martin Ballard, Area Representative, provided further information regarding the Institute changes and the Water Futures Programme.

The recent name change is a continuation of several previous name changes and transformations over 64 years of history to ensure the Institute continues to progress with the water industry.

The area held 8 events for 190 people, and will continue to do so again in 2010.

Jeff Bishop the incoming President completed the AGM by explaining his chosen theme for the year - The Customer Experience – Listen, Learn, Develop, Achieve.

Jeff referenced Richard’s 2009 Presidents Address as it presented Toyota as an example of how a company could radically improve over a few years to become a highly respected company. But a year later their public image has radically changed, due to some minor faults creating large safety problems.

How Toyota now deals with the Customer Experience will have a major impact on their future trade. If handled correctly their reputation could be enhanced.

Jeff finished by expressing how proud and privileged he felt to become Area President and thanked everyone for their support.

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MIDLANDSAREANEWS

Smart Energy Metering by 2020: ‘An Opportunity to be missed by the Water Industry!’

By Clive Ingram Members and guests from the Midlands Area attended a thought provoking and interesting presentation about smart energy metering. The paper was presented by Dene Marshallsay who is a consultant with Artesia Consulting. He has a strong background in water demand management and metering and he is one of the co-founders of the Intelligent Metering Initiative (IMI). He has recently been reporting on the opportunities for multi-utility metering for the water sector.

The background to the paper is that Government is pushing ahead with plans to install ‘Smart’ energy meters into every household in the UK by 2020. This is a massive undertaking and will be the largest and most complex change-over programme in the energy industry since the switch to North Sea gas in the 60’s and 70’s.

Twenty six million households will be visited, 46 million meters will be installed and the means to get data to and from every home established; all in a period of about 7 years from 2012. The presentation gave the background to the smart energy metering programme and explored the linkages with water metering. It discussed whether this is a missed opportunity or whether there is still time to exploit the planned infrastructure for smart energy metering.

The audience were informed about the background and drivers to smart energy metering. These drivers include climate change; a low carbon UK; supporting consumers and protecting the UK energy supply. Her Majesty’s government has also published a plan which sets out that a 34% cut in emissions is expected by 2020. Evidence has been collected which shows that energy use in the home has been fairly steady since 1990 with a very slight decline.

Dene then talked about the consumer and the environment. If the consumer can obtain a degree of control over how much energy is used and the suppliers can obtain more useful and real time data about energy use then other issues can be controlled. Consumers could reduce energy use in the home, less energy production should lead to CO2 reduction, as energy prices rise then consumers will have learned to monitor usage, the suppliers can manage the load/demand especially during critical demand periods. Other

initiatives include a tariff basket which will aim to reduce peak energy use and the facilitation of local renewable energy generation. The initiative should also lead to more accurate bills and faster and easier ‘switching’ of suppliers.

There followed a section on the potential functionality of the meters which included remote reading; two way communication with the meters; home area networks where a consumer could view an ‘on screen’ display of the energy use in the home; real time data for the suppliers so that loadsdemands can be managed and remote disablement of supply (and enablement).

The smart meter installation process is expected to commence in 2012 and at the peak, there could be c100,000 meters per week being fitted.

The audience were then updated about the proportions of water meters in use within the different water supplier’s areas. The penetration of water meter use varies regionally. The forecast of meter usage in 2015 will range from 30% to 90% depending upon which water company’s area you look at. (This will include a mixture of internal and external maters).

The link between water use and carbon was established which included an explanation about how monitoring energy use could lead to less water being heated and hence less consumption.

This includes heating water in showers, hot tap

use, bathing, clothes washing and dishwashing.

Therefore, less energy use equals less water use, less water production, less pumping and less wastewater to be removed. There is also the benefit of being able to monitor actual household consumption and the ability to calculate the amount of water entering the distribution system and actually being consumed so that more accurate leakage figures can be ascertained.

It should also be mentioned that as more modern construction methods are employed then less energy would be required to heat water for heating. Evidence shows that metering encourages consumers to change behaviour.

Hopefully, consumers will obtain water efficiency devices and advice as meters are installed.

So there could be opportunities for water conservation initiatives to piggy back off the smart energy communications and roll out activities.

The talk concluded that there is still time for the water sector to take advantage of the opportunities arising from the smart energy rollout programme. This will only happen however if the water sector engages with the energy metering programme during the coming year.

This presentation can be viewed on the Archived Events section of the website.

The background to the paper is that Government is pushing ahead with plans to install ‘Smart’ energy meters into every household in the UK by 2020.

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SCOTTISHAREANEWS

President’s Dinner Celebrations

By Kathy Auld The Scottish Area President’s dinner was held straight after the best dressed AGM ever!

120 people gathered to celebrate a very successful year under the steady hand of President Alex MacDonald. Alex gave a short welcome speech and thanked Kathy Auld and his PA Mary Teague for working behind the scenes to make the night possible. Alex also thanked the sponsors of the dinner: Jacobs, Veolia, Electrosteel, SPP, UDS, Vernon Morris & Co Ltd and those that had donated raffle prizes.

After Grace there was a superb meal and the band ‘Special Edition’ played music from the a range of decades past. Half time saw Alex handing the Chain of office to Mark Dickson. Mark

entertained with a speech and thanked Alex for a fantastic year. As Alex is not only stepping down as Area President he is retiring from Jacobs, Mark summarised a few of his achievements and presented a bottle of whisky to Alex.

Jack Carnell was invited to say a few words and draw the raffle, assisted by Alex and Mark. £692 was raised for WaterAid. Thank you to everyone who took part.

Alex and the committee would like to thank all of the sponsors through the year, as well as the companies who support the area by sending delegates and supporting applications. Thanks also go to the Marriot hotel staff, the band, and Nicci Day for help throughout the evening.

Capital Delivery in Q&S 3B

By Scott McCrae

By Scott McCrae On 10 February 44 members had the pleasure of attending a technical paper delivered by Mark McEwan (General Manager, Capital Investment, Scottish Water) and Nigel Earnshaw (Chief Executive, Scottish Water Solutions).

Mark and Nigel provided an insight into the next regulatory Capital Investment period which commenced on 1 April 2010.

The evening began as Nigel emphasised why the requirement to ensure a culture of safety is paramount for all involved with delivery of the capital investment programme. The aim of zero H&S incidents is paramount to the delivery of Scottish Water’s Vision: Working in Partnership to provide cleaner, safer water to the Scottish public.

Mark provided an overview of the successful Solutions delivery partners ‘Thistle Water’ (Veolia Water, Jacobs Engineering and Laing O’Rouke), with Scottish Water operating as the majority shareholder of Scottish Water Solutions II. The key aim of the Capital delivery programme 2010 – 2015 will be to outperform the programme in relation to outputs and programme whilst meeting WIC (Water Industry Commission) regulatory compliance in relation to OMD (Overall Measure of Delivery). The overall 5 year programme (approximately £2.5 billion) will include £220m / annum in Capital Maintenance, £250m to meet drinking water standards and secure existing supplies, £100m at water treatment works to tackle cryptosporidium risk, £100m to rehabilitate and clean 1,500 miles of water mains, £180m meeting regulatory requirements and £14m in renewable energy through hydro generation via the water networks.

It is estimated that once the Capital Programme is

55th AGM

fully operational, the monthly spend profile will be around £40m covering all areas of infrastructure and non-infrastructure Capital Investment Delivery.

The first Tranche of work due to be released will be £85m for completion of Water Infrastructure Improvements (refurbishment and replacement).

Of the overall 5 year programme 20% will be delivered by Thistle Water; 40% delivered by Scottish Water Construction Delivery Partners and 40% will awarded via mini competition pricing against target costing arrangements.

With a broad range of skills, knowledge and experience one of the fundamental aims of the Q&S 3B delivery programme will be to ‘Lead through Innovation’ and where new innovative approaches are available there will be the opportunity to procure goods and services off Framework.

CID currently have a high proportion of the programme at Capex 2 stage with work packages designed and costed in readiness for release to be delivered.

Mark and Nigel concluded the presentation with a Q&A session which generated a high volume of questions and debate from the attendees.

A special vote of thanks to Mark McEwen and Nigel Earnshaw for giving up their time to support and present to the members.

The Scottish Area Committee would also like to thank Alex McDonald for Chairing the evening, Nicci Day for organising the event and Kevin Moffat (Sanwithchery Ltd) for providing the complementary buffet and light refreshments.

Presentations from this event can be viewed on the Archived Events section of the Institute website.

The Scottish Area held their 55th AGM at the Marriot Hotel, Glasgow on Saturday 20 March.

15 members attended the AGM which was chaired by Alex Rae and Scott McCrae. A minutes silence was held for deceased member Ronald Wilson, and the sad passing of Geoff Baggaley and Jarvis McFadzean was noted by Kathy Auld during the national report.

Alex McDonald handed over the Area President’s baton to Mark Dickson who thanked Alex for his contribution to the Institute over the past year and overall contribution to the Water Industry as he was retiring. The office bearers for 2010 / 2011 were elected with Paul Sexton (Scottish Water) taking the role of Vice – President and Edward Gunn (MWH) Vice – Chair.

We had the pleasure of Jack Carnell (National President) attending our AGM. Jack provided a Presidential address noting the challenges that faced the Institute over the coming years, and the need to change the focus of the Institute through mentoring and professional development.

The ultimate aim being to ensure we meet the expectations and aspirations of members in order to sustain and grow the Institute.

Mark Dickson provided an address noting his enthusiasm to be part of the Scottish Area.

Mark is looking forward to working with the committee over the next year and delivering an exciting events programme aligned with members expectations.

The AGM was closed by Scott McCrae (Area Chair) who concluded the AGM with a comprehensive vote of thanks to Alex McDonald, Alex Rae, Jack Carnell and the Scottish Area Members.

The President’s Dinner followed the AGM with dancing into the ‘wee small hours’.

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SOUTHEASTAREANEWS

1

2

3

AGM 2010

By Steve Youell

Around 37 members attended this year’s AGM held at Canterbury Cathedral on the 6 March.

Catherine Fearon (Chairperson) opened the AGM by outlining the successful year that the area had and identifying the goals that the area want to achieve in the coming year. Following this Trevor Clark and Steve Youell went through the treasurer’s report, national report and the secretary’s report respectively.

Unfortunately the committee had to say goodbye to Kevin Clark (South East Water) who announced that he would be stepping down after the AGM. Kevin has been a loyal supporter of the Institute for many years and has taken on many roles on the committee including Chairman. Kevin was thanked for all of his work and presented with a parting gift by the area.

The AGM finished with a hand over ceremony from David Walton, the outgoing President to the new President Chris Edmondson (Southern Water). The committee also gladly welcomed

David Port (Black &Vetch) as Vice-President.

After accepting the chain of office Chris outlined his view of the coming year as President and the challenges that lay ahead within the industry. Our thanks to David for the job that he has performed as President and after Chris’s address we were left in no doubt that that commitment would be carried on over the coming year.

After lunch we were split into 3 groups for a tour of the Cathedral. Our group had a lovely elderly tour lady who had vast knowledge of religious history. Anybody caught talking or not listening was presented with a quiz question. Most of us got these completely wrong apart from Malcolm Hall who seemed to be able to match the tour lady’s knowledge!

I believe that everyone thoroughly enjoyed the day and here’s to another exciting year.

Visit to the Met Office London The Met Office hosted an event for members of the South East Area at their London offices. The event was restricted to 30 members only and places were keenly sought after.

Michelle Spillar from the Met Office gave the first presentation of the day. Michelle outlined the changing science of meteorological predictions showing how the abilities and capabilities of the organisation have evolved over time to allow the accuracy of today’s forecasts, particularly over the short term. The Met Office is able to offer short term forecasts (as per the public weather service) which can be of use for operational purposes within water companies and more long-term models of climate change and weather patterns.

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In the second presentation Dave Parker, the Chief Meteorologist at EDF Energy outlined how understanding the weather and its impacts are of critical importance to an energy utility. He explained how EDF are taking the services offered by the Met Office and utilising to provide their own needs. The solutions need not always be complex to be effective.

In summing up Jim Marshall (Water UK) noted that water utilities are not dissimilar to energy utilities and knowing and understanding weather and its impacts are just as important. Many areas of water company business hinge on the weather (demand forecasting, pumping water, optimising storage, leakage, water quality,

1

Chris Edmondson welcome speech

2

Catherine Fearon presents Kevin Clark with gift

3

David Walton hands over chain of office to Chris Edmondson

By Jim Marshall preparedness and safety to name a few) and delegates were encouraged to consider where a better understanding of weather and a better ability to forecast would impact their jobs and their companies.

The Met Office concluded the event by thanking delegates for attending and offered an open invite to members to visit the Met Office headquarters in Exeter. Michelle Spillar then took small groups to visit the Flood Forecasting Centre.

This was established as a direct response to the major floods of 2007 and is a joint Met Office / EA initiative bringing together real time monitoring of rainfall together with information on river responses to provide flood warnings.

NORTHERNAREANEWS

Bran Sands Advanced Digestion Project

Upcoming Institute of Water Area Events at a glance. . .

27 May, Harden WTW

South East Area Technical Visit

By Simon Cyhanko

2 - 17 June, Scottish Water Offices

Methane

60%

70%

This evening seminar held in February saw a very able double act in Mike Rewcastle and Donna Rawlinson from Northumbrian Water make a presentation relating to the Bran Sands Advanced Digestion project.

Carbon Dioxide CO2

Presentation Topics: Nevis Water (MOD Contract) The Flooding Bill - What does it mean for Scotland?

Leakage Strategy & Approaches

Oxygen O2

40%

Eastern Area World Environment Day

30%

50%

4 June, Ipswich Topic: Floods and Water Management

10%

20%

Gas Compositior

Scottish Area Lunch and Learn Presentations

10 June, Buxton and High Peak Golf Club

0% 06/09/2009

13/09/2009

20/09/2009

27/09/2009

04/10/2009

11/10/2009

18/10/2009

Date

Midlands Area Golf Day

Graph: Biogas generation during commissioning phase Mike opened the presentation highlighting how Northumbrian Water’s sewage sludge strategy has evolved since the early 1990s. Pre-1995 the focus had been on disposing of sewage sludge to agricultural land, landfill and also to sea with little or no treatment. In the late 1990s the emphasis then changed to better treatment through the development of the Bran Sands Regional Sludge Treatment Centre in 1998. However, by 2006 due to the significant increase in energy costs as well as the need to meet stricter environmental and efficiency challenges there was a need for further change. In 2007 a decision was then made to build an advanced digestion facility with combined heat and power at Bran Sands. This approach had a number of potential benefits including the generation of renewable energy on-site; reduced operating costs; freedom from volatile energy prices and a significantly reduced environmental footprint.

Donna Rawlinson then took the floor to describe the construction of the new Bran Sands advanced digestion facility. Donna started by describing the advanced digestion process that involves pulpers, reactors and flash tanks.

Donna moved on to describe the procurement strategy of the £33 million pound project and the rapid rate of project progress. Design of the project began in June 2007, construction in October 2007, commissioning started in mid-2009 and the site was fully commissioned by Feb 2010. A number of project successes were then detailed including the benefit of having Northumbrian Water operational staff off-line to assist contractors during the design, build and commissioning phase. The project is also forecast to save Northumbrian Water £5 million per annum in operational costs.

3 July, Taynuilt Pier, Scotland

Scottish Area Sea Fishing Competition 6 July, Cardiff

Welsh Area Summer Forum Topic: Climate change and Sustainability – a Waste Perspective

Please visit

www.instituteofwater.org.uk for up to date details on all events

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NORTHERNIRELANDAREANEWS

AGM & Site Visit

By George Irvine

On Wednesday 24 March the Northern Ireland Area held their 49th Annual General Meeting at the Circular Tower of the Lagan Weir, Belfast.

Chairman Dermott Devaney gave a report that highlighted the work of the committee over past year and reviewed the events that had taken place. He thanked the sponsors for their continued support without which the area could not function as well.

Dermott reported on national and area membership figures. He detailed how the new structure of a separate Board and Area Forum is well in place with the Area Forum being the discussion group for area issues. A direct link is provided to the Board through the Chair. Dermot recommended that members visit the Institute website on a regular basis to keep up to date with both industry and Institute information. Dermott concluded by thanking the President, Secretary, Treasurer and committee for their hard work and help during the year.

In the absence of the Treasurer the new Assistant Treasurer Lilian Parkes presented the financial report for 2009 which showed a surplus for the year.

Immediately after the AGM there was a short presentation by the Manager of the Lagan River.

This looked at the history and construction of the Lagan Weir. Afterwards members were given

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BABY NEWS

a guided tour along the under river passage and back along the footbridge to view refurbishment work on the gates.

15 members attended and the following officers were elected for the coming year: President: Sam Philips Vice President: George Butler Chair: Dermot Devaney Secretary: George Irvine Assistant Secretary: Celine Rodgers Treasurer: Carmel Bradley Assistant Treasurer: Lilian Parkes Committee Members: George Butler, Keith Hunt and Anne MacEntee.

Congratulations to Northern Ireland Treasurer Carmel Bradley who gave birth to baby Erin on 21 March. Erin weighed 8lb 6oz, and both Erin and Carmel are well.

SOUTHWESTAREANEWS

AGM and Presentation

By Richard Barton

The South West Area AGM was held on Friday 12 March at Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water’s Longham Reservoir Study Centre and was attended by 21 area members including Simon Bennett (National Chair) and founder member of the Institute, Dr Allen Bolton.

Normal AGM business was attended to and Chaired by the Area President Ian Walker (WRc). This included the voting in of two new committee members – Mark Hitchmough (Cognica) and Helen Clay-Chapman (Wessex Water). Thanks were given to retiring Committee members Chris Muscat (Wessex Water), Steve Hodges (North Somerset Council), Chris Bewley (Gloucester County Council) and Tony Cooke (Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water).

At the end of the AGM a couple of special presentations were made on behalf of the committee and South West Area members. Tony Cooke was presented with a certificate marking his award of Honorary membership (you can read more about this in Members News). Tony was also presented with a Bristol Blue Glass vase as a thank you for his support of the Area. The Area also presented an early 100th Birthday present to Dr Allen Bolton. Allen, who will reach the 100 year milestone in December this year, always attends the South West Area AGM. After the completion of the AGM the attending members enjoyed a very interesting and informative presentation from Peter Ferenczy, Asset Management Manager at Bournemouth & West Hampshire Water. Peter’s presentation highlighted all the stages from concept to completion of Bournemouth and West Hampshire Water’s bankside storage complex at Longham.

The scheme consisted of two bankside storage reservoirs and the presentation revealed some of the lessons learnt over the 20 year project life including planning, environmental and archaeological issues as well as the expected technical complications that are normally

1 encountered in large construction projects. The members were able to see first-hand the results of the project, as the meeting was held in the recently built study centre adjacent to reservoir 1.

1

Aerial view of Longham showing Reservoir 1 in foreground complete and Reservoir 2 being constructed.

2

Allen Bolton receiving early birthday present

2

Sponsorship for the Dr Allen Bolton Golf Day

By Simon Harris The South West Area committee would like to thank Colin Taylor of Domestic Sprinklers for kindly offering to sponsor the above day on an annual basis from 2010. Colin has been a fervent supporter of our golf days for many years and we look forward to seeing him for many more.

Colin Taylor

Domestic Sprinklers PLC (www.domesticsprinklers.co.uk) has been operating for over 10 years and during that period have fitted in excess of 1100 domestic /residential fire sprinkler systems across the UK. Should you wish to contact Colin for any further information on their services or advice regarding domestic sprinklers please do so through his website above.

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