Institute of Water 174

SUMMER2012 ISSUE174

IN THIS ISSUE: 2012 CONFERENCE REVIEW MEET THE REGULATORS DROUGHT UPDATE INSTITUTE OF WATER JOURNAL

CONTENTS

Introduction A great deal of work and planning has also gone into delivering yet another successful Conference which this year took place in my birth place of London for the first time ever.

You can read more about this inside; as well as find details of a brand new initiative that was launched at this event: the Institute of Water Introduction to the UK Water Industry course.

I would like to pass on my congratulations to our new Chair, Kathy Auld who was installed at our AGM. Kathy will make a great Chair and for those who haven’t met her yet can find out more about her as Kathy takes the ‘hot seat’ and answers our 60 second interview! The Institute also welcomes some new some new faces onto the Board of Directors; these are Vice-President Chris Loughlin, Marie Whaley and Vice-Chair Richard Barton.

I am delighted to introduce this edition of the Journal to you. It has been a busy few months for me in co-ordinating the requirements for our second National Innovation Award but I am pleased to report all Areas have come up trumps. We had entries from all 8 Areas, which was fantastic, and in total 14 contenders for the National Award. Thank you to everybody who has worked so hard at local level to enable this competition to take place and congratulations to our overall winner Veolia Water Central for their ‘video self help guides,’ announced during our President's Dinner.

We were extremely fortunate in securing a great judging panel to complete the evaluation of all these submissions; headed up by Jonson Cox, Chair of the Water Sector Innovation Leadership Group. This was not a light task to ask anyone to do as the submissions were all excellent and the panel really had their work cut out to select the final three. I would like to convey my thanks to all of them for giving so much of their time.

Paul Holton, Lucy Johnson and Ashley Moule – three of our ‘Rising Stars’ recently visited OFWAT, The Water Industry Commission for Scotland and the Utility Regulator for Northern Ireland. They wanted to get a better understanding of how the regulators operate and the future challenges that lie ahead for them. You can find out what they discovered on their visits inside.

As always this Journal is packed to the hilt with other features for you to enjoy including a focus on Scotland and ’Glencorse: turning the tap on Capital’s new water supply’; an update on the drought situation from one of the water experts at MWH. We have a feature looking at some of the current issues surrounding training across the industry provided by Develop and finally as Tim Balcon steps down from EU Skills we look at his achievements since being in the post. There will be a members update; engineering news; environment news; news in brief and Area news as normal.

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Features 12-15 16-19 26-27 31 32-33 50-51 52-53

Meet the Regulators Conference Review Tim Balcom Professional Development Drought Update Utilities Training Scotland

Regulars 4-5 6-7 8-9 10 75-86

News in Brief Members Update Engineering News SocEnv News Area News

I hope you enjoy the Journal and please let us know if you have any topics that you would like to see included in the future.

Next Issue

Maureen Taylor

Engaging Customers Supply Chain Focus

Past Chair and Lead on Innovation Awards, Institute of Water

Institute of Water HQ: 4 Carlton Court, Team Valley, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear NE11 0AZ Website: www.instituteofwater.org.uk President: Nick Ellins Chairperson: Kathy Auld Chief Executive: Lynn Cooper Editorial, Marketing & Events Manager: Lyndsey Gilmartin Tel: 0191 422 0088 Fax: 0191 422 0087 Email: lyndsey@instituteofwater.org.uk Advertising: Martin Jamieson Tel: 0845 884 2339 Email: martin.jamieson@distinctivepublishing.co.uk Designed and produced by: Distinctive Publishing Tel: 0845 884 2385 Email: production@distinctivepublishing.co.uk

The Institute of Water is the only professional body solely concerned with the UK water industry. We can 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 details on how to join visit www.instituteofwater.org.uk today.

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GPS shows how to on Youtube PE Pipe specialist, GPS PE Pipe Systems, has launched 14 informative ‘how to’ videos on a dedicated Youtube channel to help installers access information on best practice installation for its Protecta-Line barrier pipe range.

Available at www.youtube.com/gpspipes, the videos give installers both verbal instructions and a video demonstration of key elements in the installation process. Designed for use as an introduction to the market-leading barrier pipe range or a quick refresher, the bite-sized clips can even be viewed on mobile devices at site.

Explains Oxana Latypova from GPS: “Protecta-Line is the most popular barrier pipe in the UK and is widely specified for water installations at contaminated or potentially contaminated sites, but, like any piping system, its integrity relies on a best practice approach to installation. We already provide technical guides to installers to ensure that they are familiar with the correct jointing procedures and by introducing these step-by-step ‘how to’ videos we are putting an additional resource at their disposal whenever and wherever they need it.”

The 14 videos cover all aspects of preparation and installation of Protecta-Line pipe by all jointing methods including electrofusion, butt-fusion, mechanical compression fittings and fluid compression fittings.

DWR CYMRU WELSH WATER GRADUATE PROGRAMME PAYS OFF Dwr Cymru Welsh Water’s continued commitment to recruiting high-calibre graduates is paying off as graduate Alex Herridge helps the company retain a prestigious environmental standard.

Alex, who joined the utility business on the Dwr Cymru Welsh Water Graduate Programme in 2009, compiled and evaluated information from across the entire water company to confirm ongoing reductions in its carbon footprint and successfully retain accreditation for Welsh Water from the Carbon Trust. Alex has subsequently been appointed as a member of the company’s energy team, and will continue to monitor and report on Dwr Cymru’s carbon reduction programme.

process optimisation is in place at treatment works, as treatment processes use large amounts of energy. Also, making sure that effective maintenance programmes are followed to reduce unnecessary energy consumption by equipment that is not fully functional. Communicating with other colleagues so all play their role in reducing energy consumption, for example by turning off lights and equipment not in use was also important.

Alex said, “When I joined Welsh Water I had no idea just how large and complex a business is needed to provide water services. I’m delighted to have been given the chance to establish a career in the water industry and was determined to put in the effort to make sure the company retained the Carbon Trust Standard accreditation.

It was far from a rubber stamping exercise. I had to compile and evaluate a huge amount of information on the company’s operations and demonstrate that the relevant carbon reduction programmes are in place.”

Dwr Cymru Welsh Water’s director of HR Linda Williams commented, “Running a business effectively, efficiently and sustainably requires a talented and committed workforce. We are committed to recruiting and developing highcalibre graduates on an annual basis in support of our company-wide succession and talent plan.

By managing our resources in this way, we can be sure that the provision of water and wastewater services to our customers in Wales will continue to be in safe hands to benefit generations to come.”

Evaluation and measuring work included checking

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Alex has been a member of the Institute of Water since 2010.

WORKING ON SUNSHINE Energy from the sun is being harnessed to help power more water and sewage treatment works in Devon and Cornwall.

South West Water has installed photovoltaic (PV) cells - solar panels - at another 17 of its operational sites across the region.

This is in addition to the solar panels installed at six sites in December 2011, bringing the total to 23.

The company has placed a set of 261 panels, each measuring 1.58m by 0.81m, at each site. Each set of panels is around the size of one-fifth of a football pitch and has the potential to generate 50 kW of energy - enough to power 50 homes.

The exception is four sites where twice as many panels have the potential to generate 100 kW of energy - enough to power 100 homes.

The solar panels cost in the region of £3 million, funded by South West Water. The power generated by the panels will be used to help power the treatment works. The savings from the reduction in electricity purchased from the national grid and the income from the feed-in tariff will help keep energy costs down at each site.

NEWSINBRIEF

OPPORTUNITY TO ATTEND LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Paul Sexton receiving the USIT Harvard Award from Lynn Cooper

Applications are now open for the USIT Harvard Award which provides sponsorship to attend a High Potentials Leadership Program at Harvard Business School in June 2013.

USIT (Utilities and Service Industries Training Limited) is a charity providing grants and bursaries for education and training for the utilities industries and is committed to providing funds for overseas studies. This is seen as an integral part of increasing skills levels in the utilities industries.

Last year Paul Sexton, General Manager at Veolia Water Outsourcing in Scotland won the Award and went over to Boston to attend the High Potentials Leadership Course at Harvard Business School.

Paul said: “The whole experience has been invaluable to me. I took away dozens of ideas which I can apply in my business and I’ve now got a readymade network of international colleagues from the course. I would really encourage any budding business leaders to apply for the USIT Harvard Award, it’s an experience not to forget” This award is open to any individual employed

in the utilities sector. The Award will cover travel, accommodation and course fees and it is recognised that employers may need to finance additional costs.

To enter candidates will be asked to write a short paper in support of their application based on

what the development provided will do for the individual, his/her company and the industry as a whole in the years to follow.

Application forms can be downloaded from the USIT website: www.usit.org.uk and the deadline for applications is 30 September.

Everyone Drop 20!

Anglian Water is launching its biggest ever water saving campaign to get everyone to use 20 litres less water, every day.

The campaign, called ‘Drop 20’, launched in the same week that the company’s first hosepipe ban for twenty years came into effect. Customers are being asked to reduce their daily personal water use from 145 litres – the current regional average – to 125 litres.

The target is to reduce the amount of water the company has to supply by up to 10%, with the potential to save 120 million litres every single day.

Anglian Water will give customers tips on how to save water, as well as offering free kits to help people use less in the home and garden.

“It’s surprising how simple it can be to drop 20 from your daily water use,” said Paul Valleley, Director of Water Services at Anglian Water. “Most people don’t even realise how much water they use every day, especially in the home and garden.

“People don’t deliberately ‘waste’ water, but every

drop that isn’t put to good use or saved for later puts more pressure on the available supplies in the environment. We just want to help people do their bit to tackle a problem that is testing all of us,” said Paul.

The campaign is launching in the middle of the most severe drought Anglian Water has ever experienced, and follows the driest 18 months in over a century. Exceptionally low rainfall levels have left rivers, reservoirs and underground aquifers all short of water, putting pressure on household supplies.

“This campaign isn’t about customers going without, it’s about adapting their behaviour to be more water efficient,” said Paul. “We all share the water in our region, and we want to save it where we can. This year, there’s less of it to go around than in previous years because of the tremendously low rainfall we’ve had during the last two dry winters.

“There couldn’t be a more important time to cut twenty litres of unnecessary use out of your life,” said Paul.

Drop 20 is part of Anglian Water’s Love Every Drop initiative, which encourages everyone to look differently at water. By putting water at the heart of a whole new way of living, customers, partners and suppliers will think differently about the whole water cycle, valuing water for the precious resource that it is.

“Over the next few months, Drop 20 will be everywhere,” said Paul. “We want everyone to see just how important it is that we all do our bit to save water during the drought. Adverts are going to appear on billboards, on bus backs, in newspapers, on radio and on TV.” “You could say this is, quite literally, a watershed moment for us all.”

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Water Futures Programme Update Since Autumn 2009 the Institute has been working on our Water Futures Programme to meet the needs of current and potential members.

A key strand of this programme has been the development of an induction course for the UK water industry and this was formally launched at our Annual Conference in London.

The course has very much been developed through consultation with the industry and has been piloted at Severn Trent Water and Welsh

Water. As core technical and engineering staff continue to retire across the industry a clear need has been identified for a cost effective industry induction course to bring new members of staff recruited straight from University or from outside the industry up to speed with all aspects of the water cycle and the management and delivery of this essential service.

It was initially envisaged that this course would take a “masterclass” approach and be managed

in-house by the Institute. The consultation process indicated however that there is potentially a huge need for this product and the number of potential delegates would make this unmanageable. It is now to be delivered by qualified trainers who can facilitate the learning experience in partnership with CSTS. The course is available now and you can read more about it below.

THE UK WATER INDUSTRY EXPLAINED The Institute of Water Introduction to the UK Water Industry will give delegates a comprehensive up-to-date overview of the water and wastewater industry in the UK. It will provide those involved with, or working in, the water sector a detailed understanding of all aspects of the water cycle and the management and delivery of this essential service.Attendees will gain a better understanding of the interaction between the various stakeholders and the impact they have on the water sector as well as a strong platform on which to develop their careers.

The course is for all levels of staff including operational, technical, scientific, customer service and regulation. It delivers a fantastic opportunity to fully understand the way water companies and other bodies contribute to the ongoing development and improvement of this world class service.

Delegates will: n Learn about all the functions involved in the delivery of a water service. n Gain a comprehensive overview of the UK water and wastewater industry. n Identify the key drivers and economic value chain in the water and wastewater industry.

n Expand their existing knowledge of the water and wastewater industry. n Explore issues affecting the future of water service provision in the UK and beyond.

Delivery and Modules Accredited trainers will deliver the material on company premises and the material has been designed to enable company-specific information to be delivered by internal staff if required. The course is intended for up to 12 delegates at any given point.

The normal two-day programme will be charged at a fixed fee of £2,000 plus VAT for a maximum of 12 people. Prices may vary according to location and modules used.

“A good overall view of the processes, great for beginners”

instituteofwater.org.uk

CTIO

N TO THE

How to book

Prices

Stephen Puddy, Talent Development Co-ordinator, Welsh Water

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UK WA INDUS TER TRY ODU

The course is designed to be covered over 2 full days but its modular design means it can be tailored if required. There are interactive sessions and guidance on interactive elements such as suggested site visits and where internal companyspecific information would be used.

“An enjoyable overview”

Rebecca Dash, delegate, Welsh Water

INTR

For further information about the course please call the Institute of Water Head Office on 0191 422 0088 or e-mail: training@instituteofwater.org.uk

“I leave with a lot more information than when I started” Mark Thomas, delegate, Welsh Water

“Very good insight for a new starter” Gareth Humphries, delegate, Welsh Water

MEMBERSUPDATE

NEW COMPANY MEMBER Technolog offers over 30 years' experience in the design and manufacture of battery powered data loggers and pressure control products for the utilities. The product range is complimented and supported with a range of local and web-based software solutions. Technolog products use the latest technologies and innovation to facilitate efficient management of water networks.

Technolog are committed to producing quality product designed to withstand harsh environments at attractive prices. Technolog invest heavily in R&D; all products are designed in-house by our team of highly skilled hardware and software engineers. Our remote read range includes the Cello GSM data logger. This fully integrated GSM SMS/GPRS data logger features frequent data transmission, two way communication and sophisticated alarm regimes.

Used extensively for distribution management, pressure, flow and water quality monitoring, variants are available for both clean and waste water applications. Our Cello GSM level recorder is specifically designed for CSO monitoring and combines Cello technology with an ultrasonic probe to produce an IP68 (fully submersible) and

intrinsically safe (zone 0) integrated solution.

The Cello 6W allows cost-effective monitoring of billing meters; indices (meter readings) and consumption profiles are transmitted at userprogrammable intervals and can be integrated into billing software. This product also supports consumption alarms and tamper alerts.

The success of any monitoring scheme depends on reliable data collection. Technolog have developed two data centres with an architecture specifically designed to collect large amounts of data from our remote read products. We offer a complete end to end data service which allows fast, reliable data collection and facilitates effective network monitoring.

Technolog produced the first battery powered electronic advanced pressure control device over 15 years ago and have built on our knowledge base to develop the Regulo electronic PRV controller. The Regulo provides flow, time, closed loop, and complex closed loop control options, including multiple feed and multiple CP schemes, and incorporates remote communication and alarms. Our expertise in this area is complemented by Technolog’s sister company,

Utilitec Services, which specialises in designing and implementing pressure control schemes.

Technolog are WITS founder members and have been active on the WITS group throughout the development of the protocol. We offer a fully WITS verified range of battery powered products which communicate by GPRS over the GSM network. The potential of the WITS protocol is now being realised by the water utilities as it allows the integration of mains powered telemetry outstations and battery powered data loggers into telemetry master stations without the requirement for additional software and interfaces.

Technolog takes great pride in the level of customer service it offers and has a team of sales and support engineers dedicated to the water industry. These engineers are available to offer advice and training both from Technolog’s head office in Derbyshire and throughout the UK. A network of distributors is in place to provide support to our overseas customers.

For further information, visit www.technolog.com, contact us by telephone on 01629 823611 or email technolog@technolog.com.

60 SECOND INTERVIEW Each issue we feature a 60 second interview with a well known figure from the Water Industry. For this issue we interviewed Institute of Water National Chair.

Kathy Auld’s current role is Project Delivery Co-ordinator in the Capital Investment Delivery Department at Scottish Water. An Institute of Water member since 1994 Kathy has been very active on the Scottish Area Committee serving in a number of roles.

I joined the Institute of Water because I had a boss that made it an offer I couldn’t refuse. On my first day in a new role at Scottish Water, back in 1994, Laurie Scobie (Institute stalwart and Area Secretary) handed an application form to me and said “you’ll be joining that”. I’ve never looked back. I have broadened my learning; met fantastic and interesting people and developed my sense of confidence that now allows me to contribute as a member, Area Committee member and on the Board.

I am National Chair because I believe in the Institute and what it aims to provide for its members and the industry. I was both overwhelmed and honoured to be asked as this role has been held by many people I respect.

My most treasured possession is...Are children possessions? If so it would be them, although sometimes being the mother of 2 boys at almost

16 and 11 makes me think that my wine rack is.

My guilty pleasure is football. I was always a tomboy and have loved football for as long as I can remember. My family moved back to Dundee when I was 17 and took me to Tannadice Park, home of Dundee United. I am now a season ticket holder and take my eldest to games, including Scotland.

I do my bit for the planet by general re-cycling and using re-useable bags. IKEA bags are brilliant and easier to carry into the house.

The best advice I have ever been given is to change the things I can and to work round or with the things I can’t. Don’t stress over trivial things, choose your battles and save your energy for the things that are worthwhile.

I am most looking forward to next year’s Conference because it’s in Edinburgh and I get

to give people a traditional Scottish welcome.

I look forward to every Conference as it is a chance to catch up with old friends and make some new ones as well as keeping up to date with innovations and what’s happening around the country.

The thing about me that not many people know is I make cakes. I’ve made novelty birthday, wedding, christening, Christmas, cup and cheese cakes.

I believe the biggest challenge for the water industry is to work successfully along with the regulators, customers and media in a climate of financial constraints, high expectations and fluctuating environmental conditions. It’s a tough call, but good planning, innovation and communication (internal and external) is key to a sustainable future.

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A commitment to professional technicians The Institute of Water has joined other professional bodies licensed by the Engineering Council in making a commitment to technicians of the future, in recognition of their importance to society and the economy of the UK. The Institute of Water will: n Proactively attract technician members, setting targets for the number of registered professional technicians to be achieved by the end of 2013 n Increase the range of resources dedicated to promoting the contributions professional technicians make to their sector and to identifying their development needs

The professional technician was launched on 26 March as the result of an 18 month project, during which the Technician Council has reviewed the gaps and shortages in technical skills provision in the UK, set out the findings, presented a workable solution and developed a set of recommendations for addressing these over time.

The recommendations set out how stakeholders can strengthen the infrastructure underpinning the registration and professional development of technicians, how to provide active support for this and highlight how to increase the pool, status,

n Use the professional technician brand in association with all promotional materials used for registered technicians and work with employers and other supporting organisations to recognise more routes to registration which meet the criteria for professional technicians n Critically review, increase and adapt their support for all aspiring and registered professional technicians

transferability and diversity of professional technicians across all sectors of industry.

The recommendations provide a clear set of practical and pragmatic steps with a business-led approach, which will also appeal to individuals.

Oliver Letwin MP, Cabinet Office Minister and John Hayes MP, Minister of State for Further Education, Skills and Lifelong Learning, took to the platform at the launch stating their full support for the work of the Technician Council to improve the status of technicians and expand the opportunity for professional registration.

Oliver Letwin said: “Science, Engineering and Technology are central to the Government’s plans for economic prosperity and for improving the quality of life in the UK. This coming together of Government, employers and the professions to promote and recognise great technician careers that provide wage and social mobility is a testament to the work of the Technician Council.”

John Hayes said: "It is critical that society properly recognises those people who use that powerful combination of head and hands to further their own prosperity and the nation's success. We must promote the professional standing of technicians, raise their profile and encourage businesses to nurture our home grown talent if we are to ensure we have the skills we need to compete in the high-tech, high-skilled economy of the future. Elevating the practical is at the heart of the Government's plans."

Steve Holliday, CEO of National Grid plc and Chairman of the Technician Council said: “Increasing the pool of home grown technical skills in the UK is good for our economy and good for individuals. There is evidence that our competitors around the world have already recognised the value of technical skills and are taking action to get at the forefront of technology and innovation. There is also evidence that jobs requiring higher levels of technical expertise provide a unique, transferable and increasingly sought after skills - as well as providing an interesting and worthwhile career route.”

Engineering Council CEO Jon Prichard said: “We see this launch as an ideal opportunity to raise the profile of the 14,000 professional technicians already registered with us as Engineering Technician (EngTech) or ICT Technician (ICTTech), highlighting the value that they add to the UK economy. It also allows us to promote professional registration as a tool for fostering employee development to a much wider audience. The UK has a rich engineering heritage which undoubtedly provides a foundation for future prosperity. Ensuring that we have sufficient well motivated professional technicians to be able to exploit this opportunity is an essential activity that the Engineering Council is delighted to be a part of.”

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The eight recommendations from the Technician Council review are to:

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Endorse and promote professional technicians across every sector of employment, within professional bodies or education and training

2

Support the registration and professional development of technicians

3

Offer active support for professional technicians and promote their skills and contributions within the sector

4

Improve communications on career choices and include the different training and skills pathways, sector skills transferability, development programmes, gateways to higher levels

5

Raise the profile of the professional technician in Government communications to the young

6

Use the professional technician brand as widely as possible

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Promote greater diversity within the technician workforce ensuring the future professional technician population is more representative of society

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Sustain the work of the Technician Council to promote and increase the numbers of professional technicians over the next three years, ensuring a sustainable platform for the future

ENGINEERINGNEWS

FOUR MORE INSTITUTE OF WATER MEMBERS BECOME ENGINEERING TECHNICIANS We are pleased to report another four members have attained registration as Engineering Technician (EngTech): Steven Draper Project Manager, Infrastructure Gateway

Ian Simpson

Steve holds an Advanced Vocational Certificate of Education in Engineering and has six years’ engineering experience. Infrastructure Gateway provides design services, project management and construction management on utility issues to residential, commercial and industrial development and Steve has been with them for four years as a Project Manger/Designer. Steve was introduced to IWater by Gary Morgan, a Fellow Member and Incorporated Engineer, shortly after he started and now, three years later, has encouraged Steve to apply for Registration.

Senior Engineer, Mouchel

Ian Applegarth Technical Support Adviser, Northumbrian Water Ltd Ian joined NWL last year having worked for 9 years for Entec/AMEC, first as a Civil Engineering Technician, then an Assistant Civil Engineer. Ian has an ONC and a HNC in Civil Engineering.

Jamie Mulroy Technical Support Adviser, Northumbrian Water Ltd Jamie also joined NWL last year after three years’ experience with Newcastle City Council as a Highways Engineer. Jamie has a BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Engineering.

Ian has 38 years’ project management, engineering and construction experience in the design, construction, installation and commissioning of water and waste water projects and is currently on secondment to Scottish Water. Ian attained an HNC in Civil Engineering in 1979 and ultimately aspires to IEng but wanted to start with EngTech and progress from there. Ian said: “Having worked in the water and wastewater industry for almost 39 years, in both Public and Private Sector Organisations, I have obtained a vast array of knowledge and experience throughout my career journey to date.

I decided to take up the challenge of becoming a member of the Institute of Water as part of my review for my own personal development, the sense of accomplishment and for the importance professional recognition would offer in terms of my career.

I would thoroughly recommend to anyone working in the Water Industry whatever their age taking the time to consider and document your career achievements to date. This will form the initial approach to having your professional efforts recognised against the Engineering Council criteria for registration as an Engineering Technician.”

Registration as Engineering Technician has provided me with recognition of my career achievements and further supports my knowledge and experience in the Water and Wastewater Industry.

For some, Technician registration will be the first step in a career leading to Chartered status, for others it will be recognition of a worthwhile and satisfying occupation.

EXPERIENCE COUNTS FOR INCORPORATED ENGINEER David Williams, IEng Civils Pipeline Designer, Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW) David is an experienced design manager who has worked in the UK water industry for over 30 years, largely in the field of water network and trunk main design. He has held a number of roles, including Trainee Technician, Design Technician, Network Modeller, Assistant Engineer, Senior and Lead Designer, Senior Engineer and Civils

Pipeline Designer, with DCWW, Hyder Consulting and Laing O’Rourke. His current role covers raw water mains cleansing schemes, design of new trunk mains, water mains diversions and highway

improvement diversions. David, who has an ONC in Construction and an HNC in Civil Engineering, attained IEng status in 1980 but he let it lapse in 2006. David is keen to attain CEng status but decided first to apply for reinstatement as IEng, which meant undergoing the Professional Review process of Report and Interview. With 30 years’ experience it was no surprise that David was able to demonstrate the levels of competence and commitment required from an Incorporated Engineer.

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SOCENVNEWS

A little more about The Society for the Environment (SocEnv)

By Tim Boldero, VP Environment As this article is drafted, (early April), we can confirm that out of over one hundred applicants for the role of CEO to the Society, Alex Galloway CVO has been successful and will take up his appointment on 2 July. Because of copy deadlines a planned interview with Alex will have to wait until the next Journal.

Alex has spent his entire career in the Civil Service, mostly in the DOE and its successor, DETR, but with two spells in the cabinet office and secondments to the Local Government Commission for England and the Energy saving Trust. Alex also served as Clerk of the Privy Council and Permanent Head of the Privy Council Office when we were applying for a Royal Charter for The Society for the Environment. We all look forward to seeing Alex add more value to the work of the Society.

A small group has been undertaking a review of

the governance of the Society, since it now has twenty four constituent bodies, each with two representatives on the board, and that makes for some lively meetings. The need for a more devolved form of governance was identified some time ago but it is an area which does take time to develop and identify the right model for the Society. This growth is yet another measure of its undoubted success.

Over the last fifteen months or so, a complete review of the Chartered Environmentalist specification has been on-going, with a view to its implementation sometime towards the autumn of this year. We will bring you more detail on this

as it becomes available. The current specification and process will continue throughout the summer months so there will be no effect on applications in progress or already in the pipeline.

NEW QUALIFICATION IMPORTANT FOR FUTURE Most recent editions of this Journal have featured our new Chartered Environmentalists and you can read about our latest success below. We expect to continue that trend as the qualification becomes more widely known and understood. I’m sure you will agree that those successful registrants demonstrate the diversity of roles in the water industry which have such a significant impact on the water environment, day in, day out.

This year of all years, records will clearly be broken and I’m not just talking about the Olympics. I’m talking about drought and all its associated consequences, operationally, economically and socially.

The fact that we have endured three consecutive years of below average rainfall

Bruce Horton CEnv, MIWater Bruce is a senior policy professional and environmental economist with a strong academic background (BA Economics, MA Environmental Economics and PhD Environmental Economics & Risk) and extensive work experience. He works part-time for MWH as a sustainability consultant and also runs his own consultancy, Environmental Policy Consulting Limited, which he set up two years ago. He previously worked at Water UK where he was the water industry’s lead policy adviser

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over most of the UK and still produced high levels of output is a clear example of the resilience built into the infrastructure. We all hope it will be sufficient to see us through to the next wet period.

My point is that resilience isn’t just the pipes in the ground or the reservoir on the hill; in the context of the Society for the Environment, it requires empathy for and with the environment if the totality of water users is not to be compromised by the actions of one sector over another. That’s where you the reader have your part to play. Whether you have seen your job as partly or wholly that of a Chartered Environmentalist, it’s certainly worth considering, in order to enhance your recognition. Details for applying are shown on our website.

on a range of environmental issues, including climate change, water resources management, catchment management and sustainable development. Bruce has also worked for the Environment Agency as an Environmental Economist and has taught economics and business education at a secondary school in London.

Economists and its European counterpart and has presented papers at many national and international conferences. Bruce writes and publishes a monthly climate change newsletter which highlights recent climate change policy developments, particularly related to the water sector. You can download copies at www.envpolconsulting.co.uk

Environmental Policy Consulting specialises in water and economic related projects.

These have included the transition to a green economy, adaptation to climate change, economic appraisal of environmental projects & ecosystem services and water resources management planning. Bruce is an active member of the UK Network of Environmental

“I applied for CEnv because it’s an increasingly well recognised and respected qualification.

I’ve long believed that working to enhance the environment and promote sustainability is important and a privilege and it’s great that those of us lucky enough to be in this field have the professional recognition of bodies like the Institute of Water.”

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MEET THE REGULATORS WITH OUR

Rising Stars

At present, there is no competition for domestic customers in the water industry and you have to use the water company that supplies your local area leaving you unable to change supplier, to potentially find a better deal. The water companies are all regulated by an independent body and there are three such bodies in the UK, dependent on which area you live in.

The Water Services Regulation Authority (OFWAT) regulates 24 water and sewerage companies in England and Wales, The Water Industry Commission for Scotland regulates Scottish Water, and Northern Ireland Water is regulated by the Utility Regulator for Northern Ireland.

Whilst each regulatory organisation has existed for differing periods of time, they all operate with the same intentions: n Keeping the cost of services as low as possible for consumers n Monitor the level of service provided by each company n Assess the companies’ costs and levels of investment

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There will be occasions when a company does not provide the level of service expected of them and on these occasions the regulator may take steps such as enforcement action and/or fines to protect consumers’ interests.

Recently, three of the Institute’s Rising Stars, Paul Holton, Lucy Johnson and Ashley Moule travelled to meet each organisation to gain a better understanding of how they operate and the future challenges that lie ahead.

FEATURE:MEET THE REGULATORS Paul Holton,

Leakage Detection Manager (East), South East Water

Paul has realised the many career opportunities offered by the water industry. From his first position as Assistant Hydrogeologist / Analyst all the way to Leakage Detection Manager. Paul joined the South East Area Committee just over one year ago, giving him the chance to practise his skills in a different arena. This initiative will enable Paul to learn new skills and apply them at a higher level than he would normally expect to experience.

OFWAT Ofwat is the economic regulator of the water and sewerage industry in England and Wales. Ofwat is a non-ministerial government department that was established in 1989 when the water and sewerage industry in England and Wales was privatised. Ofwat’s statutory role and duties are primarily laid out in the Water Industry Act 1991.

Good advice for anyone wishing to progress their career…

recognises that there is a long way to go, but the first steps are being taken in the right direction.

In terms of efficiencies, Marian outlined that they are altering and reviewing targets internally to become more efficient. They are focussing resources more on targeted improvement projects and are looking to reduce the data and reporting requirements for water companies (which in turn helps with both Ofwat’s and water companies’ efficiencies).They are also looking at their internal structures to ensure that there are better career development opportunities by enabling people to work on a number of projects and gain improved efficiencies as a result.

Marian Spain, Director of Policy and Communications at Ofwat, started her career with the Countryside Agency advising and working with farmers (a sort of forerunner to a Catchment Management Officer). She then went on to work for the Environment Agency dealing more with strategy. Following several years with the Environment Agency, Marian moved on to the Energy Saving Trust before joining Ofwat 14 months ago.

Marian has fond memories of her farm advisory role but it was clear that changes had to be made if she was to challenge herself and progress further in her career. Marian has some great advice for those wishing to progress their careers in order to get to the highest or best levels possible: “Never be too inflexible. Make sure that whatever job you do you get as much out of it as possible and don’t always feel that you have to progress up in order to make good developments in your career; sometimes a sideways move to a role that provides more challenges and interest can be better than trying to take strides upwards early on.”

Of importance to Marian was the fact that whatever role she was in at the time she needed to feel she was making a difference (to customers, the environment, or both). It was also clearly important that her work life had to fit in around her home life and her love for chickens, ducks, a lovely vegetable garden and a goal to become fully self-sufficient. It was good to know that in order to become a high-flier in the industry it is not all work and no play.

When asked to describe herself in three phrases, Marian replied with: “Enthusiastic, customer focussed, makes things happen (or making a difference).” Clearly these attributes have been key to Marian’s career success to date and are attributes that anyone wishing to develop and further their careers could abide by.

Something to be proud of…

Marian has been particularly pleased with the work that she and Ofwat have been doing to encourage water companies to engage with their customers more. Marian said: “It is clear that customers really

What does the future hold for Ofwat and the water industry…

Marian Spain, Director of Policy and Communications do want an improved service but they have many different priorities. Knowing what customers want will enable companies to understand what they should be doing to improve service levels going forward.” Pushing this and having positive feedback has been a real achievement for Marian and her team this year. Marian is pleased with the way companies have responded with most making good progress in setting up customer engagement and challenge processes.

Is Ofwat becoming more efficient?

The recent review of Ofwat carried out by Defra (the Gray Report 2010) identified two key areas for attention for the economic regulator. Firstly, that Ofwat needed to engage more constructively and effectively with stakeholders and be more transparent in its decision making. Secondly, it needed to reduce the burden of regulation on the companies to encourage them to be more flexible and innovative. Marian and Ofwat agreed with these findings and are in the process of ensuring that they do more to meet these requirements.

Marian said: “Ofwat has already started looking at many different ways of becoming more transparent and have been looking to work more closely with water companies and other stakeholders and to explain our decisions more clearly.” Marian

Fundamentally for Marian and for Ofwat, it is imperative that the water industry continues to provide a good service to customers at a reasonable price. The focus for the future will be on how this is achieved in the most sustainable way.

One area of big debate is the opening of the industry to competition to promote market driven efficiency savings and innovation. Ofwat is open about seeing competition as a realistic opportunity to drive efficiency by allowing market forces to influence and drive the quality and cost of services as it does in other regulated industries.

Another area being explored is the need for water companies to understand and react to what customers want and what they are willing and able to pay for. What is clear is that Ofwat is fully aware of the need for change in order for improvements and sustainable efficiencies to be made. As Marian put it: “It is very important that the water industry maintains a good level of service whilst becoming more resilient to significant issues such as climate change and population growth. There is a realisation that some parts of the regulatory process need to change in order to support better longer term planning and investment strategies.” It is clear by talking to Marian that alterations to the regulatory processes are still being discussed and defined; these discussions will be important in terms of shaping the way the industry is regulated in the years to come. The Ofwat doors are clearly open for those that wish to add to the discussions.

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Ashley Moule,

Asset Engineer Dwr Cymru Welsh Water (DCWW)

Ashley joined the Institute shortly after he moved to DCWW and quickly joined our Welsh Area Committee. He is passionate about professional development and is keen to do all he can to promote Professional Registration. Having just attained Chartered Environmentalist status there can be no doubt that Ashley is a Rising Star and the programme should enable him to demonstrate leadership in sustainable management of the environment to the extent that other members will follow his lead and seek registration.

Utility Regulator for Northern Ireland I visited Belfast to meet Jo Aston, Director of Water Regulation in Northern Ireland. I wanted to find out about the background of the regulators director, to see how her own experience has developed and how this has been used to develop regulatory services in Northern Ireland’s water industry.

Jo Aston is a Chartered Civil Engineer, who started her career in private consultancy after leaving Queens University. Jo has worked predominantly in the water industry for both the private and public sectors. Her experience spans all aspects of the business, from managing a team of professional designers to directing a large operational workforce. She oversaw the construction of Water Service’s first Public Private Partnership, before moving into asset management. She was the project manger of Water Service’s second Asset Management Plan which defined a £3billion investment requirement over a 20 year horizon. Before leaving the Water Service to join the Utility Regulator’s (UR) office in May 2007, Jo was instrumental in the development of the Asset Management Model for the new company, Northern Ireland Water.

On a personal note, Jo emphasised that to develop and progress, you need to grasp career opportunities and embrace change. Moving into the regulatory world has been one of Jo’s greatest challenges - it took her beyond the world of engineering and into economics, accountancy, and politics. Jo is a member of The Institute of Water and Vice Chair for the NI region of the Institution of Civil Engineers. She believes that belonging to professional bodies is important, as they provide good career development opportunities and are a wonderful source of continued learning and networking. Summing herself up in three words, Jo chose: intuitive, determined and fair.

The work of the Regulator The Utility Regulator’s legislative base and role is similar to counterparts in the UK. Benchmarking NI Water’s costs and performance, to the more efficient English and Welsh (E&W) Water Companies, is a dominant and effective regulatory tool given the maturity of NI Water. Jo acknowledged that NI Water had only been subject to economic regulation for five years compared to the 20 years for the E&W water companies. The first regulatory price control, PC10 -13, determined a saving of some £91m. The company to date is performing well against PC10 targets and performance is reported in the Utility Regulator’s annual cost and performance reports.

The transparency, accountability and consultative nature of the price control process are particular

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being improved from 98 to 131. Regarding capital investment, emphasis is being placed by the regulator on the development of good information, and robust submissions which justify and support the targeting of investment.

Jo Aston – Director of Water Regulation strengths which have gained support from all the key stakeholders.

In Northern Ireland, domestic customers do not pay directly for their water. Instead a contribution towards water is made from household rates, whereas non-domestic customers do pay a separate water bill. Water charges were to be introduced with the Water Reform in 2007 and the creation of NI Water. However, in the absence of domestic charges, NI Water is dependent on public expenditure allocation for over 70% of its funding.

Jo noted that this was a unique circumstance, which brought a number of constraints, namely annual budget setting with no flexibility for either capital or operational expenditure between years.

This raises a significant concern of funding and the ability to plan for the long term which is essential for compliance with the Water Framework Directive and to ensure a sustainable water industry for future generations.

The Water Directorate within the Regulator has 12 employees, structured into three teams: regulatory finance, network regulation and comparative efficiency and performance. In the five years that have followed the reform of the industry and following the introduction of economic regulation, progress has been made with the operational efficiency gap to E&W being reduced from 50% to 39% and the Overall Performance Score (OPA)

The Utility Regulator sees advantages in having a one to one relationship with the company, it allows for better understanding of issues and a honing-in on critical areas. For the current PC13, the Utility Regulator sought to align information requirements with business as usual information systems, such as the quarterly Capital Investment Monitoring template. This is an approach which the Utility Regulator intends to continue and thereby reduce the regulatory burden. The Utility Regulator’s investigation into NI Water’s handling of the nationally reported Freeze/Thaw water shortages in NI during the severe winter of 2010/11 was another unique and successful approach. The Utility Regulator engaged expert representatives from a range of GB water companies to work with them on the investigation which resulted in 56 recommendations which were fully accepted by the company.

Sustainability is acknowledged as an important issue for the industry and there is recognition of the need to be more collaborative and to incentivise consumers to be water efficient. There is no equivalent DEFRA Department in NI, however the Utility Regulator supports the Department for Regional Development’s plans for a Water Strategy in NI which engages all organisations associated with the water cycle. The Department is also responsible for the development of social and environmental guidance which sets out policy and objectives for the price control process.

Concluding the interview, Jo stated that as reform of the water industry is still in its infancy in Northern Ireland there remains significant work ahead. I asked what will be the Utility Regulator’s main aims and Jo commented that in the short term, the most fundamental aspect is securing the funding for the industry and establishing a robust and clear governance model. The main challenge is how quickly NI Water can close the efficiency and performance gaps to match top performing water companies in the rest of GB. Scotland closed similar gaps in 10 years, delivering what it took the E&W companies to achieve in 20 years.

FEATURE:MEET THE REGULATORS Lucy Johnson,

Product Manager, Primayer

Lucy spoke at our 2011 Conference where she won the hearts and minds of delegates and fellow speakers when she spoke for anyone with aspirations to succeed in the water industry without a University Degree.

Lucy was so good she was snapped up by one of the suppliers who attended the Conference.

The Water Industry Commission for Scotland (WICS) WICS is a non-departmental public body with statutory responsibilities. It acts independently of Ministers. It is a small team of around 20 people, based in Stirling. Established in 2005, it took over responsibility for regulation of water and sewerage services from the former Water Industry Commissioner for Scotland. Its mission is to manage an effective regulatory framework which encourages the Scottish water industry to provide a high-quality service and value for money to customers.

How did you start your career?

staffing levels and gaining a more effective way of regulating.”

Alan studied Russian Studies at University and spent a placement year in Russia in 1983. After University he then went into stock broking with Lloyds bank before leaving to attend business school in America where soon after, he started consulting for businesses in the country. Alan moved back to Scotland to take up the position of Water Commissioner with the aim to apply OFWAT’s effective model.

How do regulators incentivise undertakers to be innovative?

“As an economic regulator we are interested in providing value for money for the customer.

Innovations will only stick if society is prepared to pay for it. If they don’t want to pay for it then there is little motivation to incentivise companies as it would ultimately result in driving prices up for the consumer.”

What has been your greatest achievement since being in the water industry?

“No one single achievement. On the whole it’s not about looking good. For example the banking regulators have failed as the public is unhappy with the system. As long as the WICS is not heard and prices do not rise then WICS it is successful.”

What would you take from other UK regulators into your own procedures?

“It is not a case of trying to copy other models; we can only focus upon Scotland’s situation and providing value for money for our customers. We only implement measures if the customer can be better off and if a change works in the UK then we take it on board.”

What issues do you face in Scotland that aren’t found or so prevalent elsewhere in the UK? “There are no particular issues, although there is a myth that Scotland has an abundance of water. The east coast of Scotland suffers from low rainfall and can face yield issues much like the rest of the UK.”

Do you think privatisation or nationalisation is the best way to operate the water industry?

“This is not a clear cut issue. In a privatised industry there is a responsibility to stakeholders as well as customers which has the potential to increase bills. These stakeholders can be in the form of dividends or debts that the company owes, it really depends on what the money is being spent on. Whereas Scottish Water has lower bills and the assets remain in the public sector.

With these bills being some of the lowest in the

Alan Sutherland – Water Commissioner UK there are no plans to privatise Scotland and it must be noted that a decision to privatise or nationalise is a politician’s decision. Regulators should not be involved in politics. They are counters not politicians.”

What are your views upon sustainability?

“Scotland has always been a pioneer in creating a sustainable industry. When the three Scottish water authorities merged, it recognised that long term spending is required to tackle sustainability and it is important to understand that costs like this cannot be recovered immediately.

Sustainability is not the responsibility of WICS, our main concern is the customer and the government should decide on sustainability policies. It doesn’t mean WICS doesn’t want to see environmental improvements -sustainable targets could potentially be manipulated. For example, to meet a consumption saving of one litre per household, network pressures can be reduced to minimise the amount of water forced through a tap.”

Has the recent economic downturn affected your approach?

“As a public body, it is our duty to reduce costs and in the last two years we have achieved this reduction by 25%. This is mainly due to reducing

Higher energy prices will make consumers more conscious of their use, making cost a key driver that reduces our consumption. Is increasing the cost of water services the only realistic way of getting people to acknowledge the value of water?

“Cost should be a disincentive not a value to water. Water is only harmful when we remove it from one catchment and replace it in another catchment. In some instances treated wastewater is cleaner than water it is abstracted from. So when looking at the value of water it is important to look at the value of wastewater too. We have a business model we have to work with and with hindsight the whole model would be completely different.”

Do you see Scotland adopting metering infrastructure for its domestic customers?

“We cannot influence this decision unless the customers want it and/or government policy has dictated us to. We have seen that metered properties pay £50 more than non-metered properties and so this is currently not in the best interest of our consumers. Scottish domestic properties pay their water bill through their council tax; if we went to meter properties then we will need to introduce social tariffs which our current system already addresses.

“At the end of the day does a meter really limit consumption? If someone spends £60 at a garden centre, it is unlikely they are going to mind spending £1 per m3 on watering those plants.”

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‘2012 – Changing the Industry for a Sustainable Legacy’

By Nick Ellins, National President, Institute of Water The first National Institute of Water Conference and Exhibition ever to take place in London, focussed on the many changes underway in the sector, along with the potential impact of these changes on those who work in water and wastewater services. Leading industry figures explained the changes taking place, the challenges and opportunities, how to meet those challenges sustainably and the innovation needed to further develop the high performance of the sector.

National President, Nick Ellins, welcomed everyone to this year’s Conference and to the Royal Society: the oldest remaining scientific academy in the world.

In his speech, Nick reported that the Institute’s development strategy – the Water Futures Programme – continued to deliver results, and explained the outcomes achieved against the commitments that were made at last year’s Conference.

IMPLICATIONS OF RECENT SECTOR CHANGE, REVIEW AND RESTRUCTURING For the opening session Nick Ellins chaired a discussion to help delegates understand the many changes that were taking place in the sector.

New government environmental and social legislation had continued to develop; future price setting methodologies were now starting to emerge; there had been changes to the structure of the environmental and economic regulators; and increased clarity on the future of consumer representation and competition.

Keynote speaker Martin Baggs, Chief Executive of Thames Water, set out his views regarding the significant challenges ahead. Martin explained: the rise in expectations from Thames consumers; his thoughts on the possible future structure of the industry; likely impacts of climate change and a changing climate; innovation; the potential effects of competition, EU Directives, affordability and debt. He concluded by explaining the successful sector wide collaboration in managing the drought, cautioning people against thinking that the recent rainfall had ended the situation, and questioning whether future competition may dilute the will of competing companies to work together.

Marian Spain, Director of Policy and Communication at Ofwat, gave a detailed overview of the changes that had taken place in Ofwat over the last few years, and explained the strategy they would pursue to deliver the required objectives of the coalition government.

Ofwat would be cutting red tape, to help focus

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companies on delivering outcomes and help them to stay accountable to the needs of local customers rather than the regulator. Marian advised that Ofwat wanted what customers wanted, and at the fairest price.

Paul Leinster, Chief Executive of the Environment Agency, brought a new perspective to the discussion. He demonstrated how the water environment has changed significantly over recent years, and explained the challenges that professional forecasters feel are ahead. The effects of continuing drought, floods, pollution, increased water usage per person and population growth, along with the pressures on wildlife and the wider environment will require us to all value water in a new way. A new societal value for water however, did not necessarily mean setting a new financial value.

The session ended with a superb presentation

by Young speaker Anna Gocher, Analytical Team Leader at South West Water. Anna delivered a paper on the work she undertakes for her company to develop the ‘upstream thinking approach’ to water catchments. Her perspectives on sustainable water storage, land management and community education, combined with excellent presentation skills, drew many nods of support and lengthy applause.

MEETING THE CHALLENGES Steve Wilson, President of the Institute of Welsh Area chaired the next session that looked in depth at ways of meeting the challenges set out in the first session.

Richard Flint, Chief Executive of Yorkshire Water, reminded the audience that the core role of water companies was public heath. In delivering that critical role, companies would need to find new solutions to sustain an ageing population through tighter resource availability, a tough economic and employment environment and a changing climate.

Richard explained his ideas for safeguarding future water resources, and for building a sustainable industry rather than just ticking regulatory boxes.

He explained the importance of gaining consumer trust, and then utilising this trust to change the culture around water.

Dame Yve Buckland of the Consumer Council for Water built on that theme, explaining that to secure ‘happy customers’, water companies would need to help people to see where their money was being spent, ensure key customer priorities had been delivered and that water bill payers were receiving good value for money. Achieving these would increase the legitimacy of the sector in consumers’ eyes, and help secure willingness for customers to pay future bills.

Paul Mullord, Director of British Water, gave an overview of how the modern supply chain is embedded within the water industry, and gave evidence to show the strain on suppliers through the stop/start nature of price reviews.

Approximately forty thousand jobs were being lost during each AMP cycle, incurring billions of pounds of lost efficiency and wasting valuable experience and skills. Paul explained the work that British Water was undertaking to help find solutions.

FEATURE:CONFERENCE REVIEW DAY 2 KEYNOTE ADDRESS Heidi Mottram, Chief Executive of Northumbrian Water delivered a thought provoking Keynote speech to open day 2.

In a session chaired by South West Area President Phill Mills, Heidi challenged assumptions that the water industry was not a leading sector for innovation.

Heidi illustrated a wide range of significant projects within her company, including the world’s largest reed bed system in Essex and Suffolk Water and two large anaerobic digestion projects in Teeside and Tyneside.

Within this work, Northumbrian Water had focussed on power and carbon reduction, movement to self-generated energy and utilisation of all wastewater sludge.

Customer service was also a key area for innovation. Heidi believed the industry should aspire to have consumers talk about it as the leading service business.

Delivering that aspiration will require strong leadership within companies, close collaboration with the workforce and visible custodianship of water in the eyes of the community.

NEW APPROACHES FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE New National Chair Kathy Auld, then led a session that started with a professional and entertaining speech by Young Speaker, Ursula Trolan. A water-efficiency co-ordinator within Northumbrian Water, Ursula had the tough task of following the keynote address of her Chief Executive. Rising to that challenge, Ursula had the audience on their feet and actively contributing, as she conveyed her view of how to instigate culture change for improved water efficiency, and develop customers’ sense of value for money. It was another superb presentation from emerging talent.

Sonia Phippard, Director for Water at Defra, was next to speak. Sonia gave the very diverse Institute of Water audience, an easy to grasp guide to the many elements of government water policy. Covering policy development from retail competition and abstraction reform through to affordability and mergers, Sonia brought

clarity to a number of complex subjects, and the audience showed their appreciation for her valued insight.

Alan Sutherland, Chief Executive of the Water Industry Commission for Scotland, immediately added to the theme, by explaining the collaboration with Defra on competition policy and the focus in Scotland on promoting excellence in water management. Scottish Water was praised for it’s performance to date.

As part of his speech, Alan challenged sector assumptions on cost reflective charging and network costs and explained the complexities of setting fair policy. In promoting consumer legitimacy, he talked the audience through the latest developments on constructive engagement, and warned companies that thoughts of rebadging customer consultation as genuine customer engagement would ultimately fail.

All presentations can be downloaded from archived events section of website.

INNOVATING TO MAINTAIN A WORLD CLASS SECTOR Immediately following a highly productive poster and discussion session with the talented young researchers of the STREAM Industrial Doctorate Centre, the Institute of Water Northern Ireland Area President chaired the final session of the 2012 conference.

Martin Cave

Martin Baggs

In what was widely accepted as the toughest chairing role of the whole event, George Butler provided ‘Paxmanesque’ management of some of the best brains in the water sector. Hosting a fast moving and quick-witted session on innovation, George invited individual contributions from Professor Martin Cave (Director, Warwick University), Martin Baggs (CEO, Thames Water), David Smoker (Chair, SBWWI), Heidi Mottram (CEO, Northumbrian Water), Sonia Phippard (Director, Defra) and Roger Harrington (MD, Sembcorp Bournemouth Water) before running separate panel and audience debate sessions.

Whilst the robust debate stimulated great involvement and enjoyment from the audience, it was instructive to hear delegates commenting on the high level of agreement between the panel members and the good-natured collaboration they had displayed. Audience members felt that this was an industry to be proud of, where people could genuinely make a difference and deliver results by working together.

Nick Ellins then gave a final summary of the key learning points from the last two days of presentations, thanked all of the sponsors, exhibitors, speakers and session chairs for their valued efforts. The audience and wider membership were invited to gather in Edinburgh between 16-17 May for the 2013 National Conference.

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AGM, AREA NIGHT AND A GOOD OLE COCKNEY KNEES UP

By Steve Youell and Paul Holton The National AGM and Area Night was held on the Wednesday evening so that the South Esat Area could welcome delegates to London.

The AGM was hosted by Water UK and began with drinks and canapies. Nick Ellins was reelected as President for a second year and Chris Loughlin (Chief Executive, South West Water) joined the Board as Vice President. Other new Board members are Richard Barton (Customer Services Manager, Sembcorp Bournemouth Water) and Marie Whaley (Asset Planning Manager, Northumbrian Water). Jack Carnell, Past-President, and Neil Morton, Past Chair, retired from the Board although Neil remains Chair of the Audit Committee. The full Board of Directors for 2012/13 also includes: Michael Fowle (Vice-President Engineering); Tim Boldero (Vice-President Environment); Kathy Auld (Chair); Lynn Cooper (Chief Executive) and ordinary Board Members Helen Edwards, Roger Harrington, Bob Mills, Sam Phillips and Maureen Taylor.

Guests were then invited to board a tour bus and take a ghost tour of London. The bus was part of the Necropolis Bus Company which, in the 19th century, operated as a private funeral bus service. Tour guide Malcolm Robertson was a strange fellow who explained in great detail the hangings, murders and tortures that had occurred through the ages in different parts of the city including the tale of the Scratching Fanny of Cock Lane. Following a séance to cleanse the bus of a

spirit; and some fascinating tales along the way the party departed to meet other delegates and guests at the nearby pub.

After an excellent day at the Conference guests were invited to ‘a good ole cockney knee’s up!’ courtesy of Saint Gobain. Would this beat last year’s shenanigans? What were we letting ourselves in for?

At 7.30pm we all piled into one of London’s finest drinking establishments and were immediately treated to a proper cockney welcome and a Kitchen Sink (Drink). Straight away people began to start rabbiting (talking). As the two Chaz ‘n’ Dave tribute bands began to play, one band at the top of the apples ‘n’ pears (stairs) and one band at the bottom, it was clear that the ice had been broken! Everyone present was having a good ole time amongst friends and colleagues; networking at its best.

We were then treated to a fine feast of traditional east end nosh, and after more music guests were challenged to the cockney quiz and the cockney rhyming slang competition. Highlights included watching Simon Bennett (past National Chair) getting his knees up to ‘Snooker Loopy Nuts are we’ as well as hearing everyone singing some of our old favourites such as ‘Doooowwwnnn to Margate.’

This year’s Dinner was held at London’s prestigious Banqueting House. Following a lavish drinks reception and delicious three course meal, Professor Martin Cave was invited to announce the winner of the 2012 Annual Innovation Award, kindly sponsored by Northumbrian Water.

A series of video self-help guides for customers scooped the Award for Veolia Water Central; and Sharna Richings and Mike Webb were invited to the stage to collect the Award on behalf of the company.

Veolia Water Central’s video self-help guides were seen by the judging panel as being innovative, low budget, accessible and easy to find. They are a very simple idea but extremely helpful and useful to customers.

Speaking about the winning entry Jonson Cox, Chair of the Water Sector Innovation Leadership Group, who headed up the panel of judges who chose this as the winner from all regional entries said: “This entry stood out from all of the others as the initiative had clearly been developed by customer focused staff with practical experience of customers' needs.”

The Saint Gobain night had it all: good beer, good fun and games, good food, toe tappingly good music, and all amongst good friends (some old and some new). Thanks go to Saint Gobain for another memorable evening. Good luck with trying to top this in Edinburgh next year!

The Water Siren by Morrison Utility Services was awarded second place and the CompAer process by Wessex Water / GENeco was third. Representatives from Veolia Water Central team responsible for the winning innovative idea will be invited to take part in Water UK’s Innovation Hub: Resilient Water Resources 2012.

Business Skills Awards

CPD Award

The Business Skills Award, sponsored by EU Skills, was presented by Jack Carnell, Chair of EU Skills, to Paul Campbell from Scottish Water for ‘Continuously Improving Leakage Control Skills and Competence in Scottish Water’.

The CPD Award was presented by Chief Executive Lynn Cooper to Natasha McMonagle, Higher Scientific Officer, Northern Ireland Water. This award is made to an employee in the water industry who has demonstrated an effective approach to their own personal development. Peter Crouch from Ashington Associates and Dennis Doman from Consultme 4 EBM Ltd were runners up.

Institute Director Bob Mills did a superb job as compere for the evening and The Funky Buddha Band provided great entertainment. This year’s President Cup was awarded to Scottish Area; and Honorary Membership was also presented to Nick Roadnight who recently retired as Managing Director of Portsmouth after 33 years with the company in recognition of his outstanding commitment to the Institute.

The runners up were Simon Bennett from Daniel Contractors and Susie Golics from South West Water.

WaterAid 2012 Award for Outstanding Commitment Barbara Frost, CEO of WaterAid presented a special award to John Mowbray from Northumbrian Water for showing outstanding commitment to WaterAid in terms of influencing and fundraising, both within Northumbrian Water and individually. This was very fitting as the Tracing Lafia Project that John has recently been involved with to support WaterAid was exhibited at the Conference. This year's raffle raised £3000 for WaterAid.

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President’s Dinner and Awards Evening

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Allen Bolton Award Helen Edwards, immediate past Chair of the Institute of Water presented Tim Boldero with the second Institute of Water Allen Bolton Award. Established in memory of one of the founder members of the Institute this award is presented for exceptional commitment shown to the Institute. Tim, a retired Anglian Water employee, is currently Vice President Environment of the Institute, having also served as Vice President Engineering and as National Chair.

Former Chair Ian Plover who nominated Tim said: “Tim is one of the most dedicated members of the Institute that I know. He joined the Institute 34 years ago and has been an active contributor ever since, probably having served in more roles at a local and national level than anyone else in the Institute today.

Without Tim Boldero the Institute would be a poorer place.”

FEATURE:CONFERENCE REVIEW

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National Innovation Award Winner 2012: Mike Webb and Sharna Richings on behalf of Veolia Water

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Barbara Frost presents John Mowbray with the WaterAid 2012 Award for Outstanding Commitment

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The Scottish Area collect the President’s Cup for largest percentage increase in members.

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Natasha McMonagle receives the 2012 CPD Award

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Paul Campbell from Scottish Water receives the EU Skills Business Skills Award 2012

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Helen Edwards presents Tim Boldero with the Allen Bolton Award 2012

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SERVICE RESERVOIRS

WATER TOWERS

WWTW

INSPECTION, CLEANING & CHLORINATING

CORROSION PROTECTION

STONBURY 28 YEARS AS MARKET LEADERS IN THE REFURBISHMENT OF WATER RETAINING STRUCTURES & ASSOCIATED ASSETS SERVICE RESERVOIR & WATER TOWER REFURB - STEEL TANK REFURB - SEWAGE WORKS REFURB SPECIALIST COATINGS - CONCRETE REPAIR - INSPECTION SURVEYS - CLEANING & CHLORINATION CORROSION PROTECTION TO PIPES & PIPE BRIDGES - CIVILS - SECURITY WORKS INC LPC4 ACCESS COVERS DESIGN & INSTALLATION OF ACCESS LADDERS, HANDRAILS & WALKWAYS - EU HYGIENE TRAINING North Office: Unit 4, Phoenix Enterprise Park, Grovehill Road, Beverley, E.Yorkshire, HU17 0JG t 01482 881198 e enquiries@stonbury.co.uk South Office: 187c High Street, Cranfield, Bedfordshire, MK43 0JB t 01234 750924 e enquiries@stonbury.co.uk

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Winner

of the

Institute of Water Northern Area Innovation Award

UV disinfection ensures coal power research facility meets strict wastewater discharge regulations UV disinfection specialist Berson has helped the Wilsonville Power Systems Development Facility (PSDF) in Alabama, USA comply with strict wastewater discharge regulations. In four years of operation, contaminants have been kept within permit limits with minimal maintenance.

The PSDF is a research and development centre that tests coal-based technologies before they are implemented at power supply facilities. In 2006, the growing plant employed 200 people and produced a wastewater flow of about 95 litres per minute. With its size expected to double in the near future, the facility was required by state and local regulators to start disinfecting its wastewater. The existing wastewater treatment facility in Wilsonville was too far away for the facility to connect. Therefore, the PSDF decided to build its own wastewater treatment facility.

A Berson new OpenLine open channel UV wastewater disinfection system like the one shown here has been installed at the Wilsonville Power Systems Development Facility in Alabama, USA)

After evaluating competing products, Wilsonville PSDF decided that Berson’s OpenLine UV disinfection system most closely met with their specifications and budget requirements. The OpenLine is an open channel disinfection unit, which uses low pressure, high output UV lamps to destroy microorganisms’ reproductive abilities on a cellular level. The facility installed the OpenLine system in 2007 as the last item in the plant process, providing final treatment of the water before it is discharged into a local river.

Delivering what we promise

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The state permit required that no single sample of the water leaving the Wilsonville PSDF could have more than 200 faecal colonies per 100ml. The OpenLine system has provided the necessary disinfection required to meet the site’s permit. In addition, the system offers a compact footprint and requires virtually no maintenance. The OpenLine has operated for 21,000 hours since installation, meeting disinfection requirements without needing UV lamp replacement.

17/04/2012 09:46:43

Improving lifting safety in the water industry…

Formed 15 years ago to specifically address this issue, REID now leads the market in providing lightweight, portable and safe lifting solutions for water and Lightweight applications.

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The new PORTA-GANTRY RAPIDE is a typical example of REID’s innovation in improving safety of The new PORTA-GANTRY is a typical example of REID’s innovation in improving safety of proven certifiedRAPIDE products. goods lifting to WLL 500kg and personnel lifting (man-ride) with rapid deployment in just a minute.

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The new PORTA-GANTRY RAPIDE is a typical example of REID’s innovation in improving safety of goods lifting to WLL 500kg and personnel lifting (man-ride) with rapid deployment in just a minute. goods lifting to WLL 500kg and personnel lifting (man-ride) with rapid deployment in just a minute.

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E: enquiries@reidlifting.com E: enquiries@reidlifting.com E: enquiries@reidlifting.com E: enquiries@reidlifting.com

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PALINTEST

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NEW FULLY-FEATURED PORTABLE WATER QUALITY MONITORING SYSTEM FROM PALINTEST

Leixlip Water Treatment Works, together with John Conboy, one of the 50 ABB Energy Appraisal Team members, investigated the work’s pumps energy use. By installing four ABB variable-speed drives a saving of 3,179,904 kWhrs was made totalling Í508,784 per year with a payback of less than one year.

To find out how, watch the video: www.abb.co.uk/energy Palintest Ltd, the leader in water analysis technology, is launching the new Macro 900 Water Quality System for multiparameter water quality monitoring.

Designed to combine portable hi-tech functionality with excellent ergonomics in an easy-to-use package, the Macro 900 WQS is particularly well-suited for environmental surveys, aquaculture applications and wastewater and surface water monitoring.

The Macro 900 Meter forms the core of the system. It is completely waterproof, battery-powered and includes three dimensional GPS positioning as standard, storing up to 1900 full data sets of results. The high-contrast LCD screen is backlit for use in low light environments and the rubberised function keys are designed for effective use even with wet or gloved hands.

A full range of Macro Accessory Probes allow the system to monitor a wide variety of parameters, including: pH, conductivity, TDS, turbidity, depth and both optical and galvanic Dissolved Oxygen (automatically compensated for atmospheric pressure and salinity). All Macro Accessory Probes are simple to maintain, manufactured in marine grade aluminium and only 48mm in diameter to ease use in narrow boreholes.

In addition to the Meter and Probes, the Macro 900 Water Quality System comes complete with a full range of accessories and consumables, including: extension cables for the Probes, flow cells, MacroLink software, calibration solutions and replacement probes/caps.

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Integrated Design Solutions for the Water Sector.

URS offers multidisciplinary professional services in all aspects of water engineering. Our activities encompass the complete water cycle across a broad spectrum of industries. An integrated approach provides our clients with tailored and holistic services that respond to the growing importance of global environmental issues.

URS provides a start-to-completion service. Our programme range in scale from specific water projects, such as flood risk assessments or individual treatment works, through to planning for large scale multimillion pound developments and preparation of long term water strategies.

URSGLOBAL.COM

URS

Water availability and its growing significance for strategic business planning With population growth, urban expansion and climate change, the pressures on water resources will increasingly impact economic and social development. URS helps companies develop long-term water management strategies to meet these challenges, using an innovative water footprint approach.

Whilst within the water industry, water availability has always been part of strategic business planning, this hasn’t necessarily been the case in other sectors. Historically there has been an assumption that, with management, there would be enough water of adequate quality available for business, while meeting the basic social needs of the population. However, opinion has recently shifted.

The facts are stark - The 2030 Water Resources Group estimates that under current conditions, global demand for water will be 40% higher in 2030 than reliable supplies can provide. One third of the world’s inhabitants already live in water-stressed countries. It is not just an issue for the drier parts of the world, as a significant proportion of the UK is also predicted to be ‘water scarce’ by 2025.

Water sustains our agricultural systems and consequently, our food chain. Our PCs and phones rely on silicon chips produced from waterintensive manufacturing processes. The electricity that flows through the wires of every home, office and supermarket is generated by power stations that depend heavily on water. We have seen real impacts to the global economy through water shortage (and excess) in the last 12 months. In 2011, droughts in the world’s major cotton-growing regions drove prices of cotton up 150% in one year, whilst floods in Thailand caused disruption to the global supply of computer and automotive components, wiping more than 1.5% off Thailand’s GDP.1

it is defined as the total volume of freshwater used to produce the product, summed over the various steps of the production chain and refers to where and when the water is used2.

With an increase in the number of businesses affected by water shortages at some point in their global supply chains, leading organisations need to factor water into their decision making. For instance, before investing in industrial expansion or infrastructure development, has water availability been considered? Will it be available at the right cost or in sufficient quantities for new and existing business activities and increases in the local population? It isn’t just about manufacturing sites but critical raw materials and where they are being grown or manufactured, as well as their continuity of supply.

URS has seen water stewardship work increase over the last two to three years as water makes its way up the corporate agenda. Water stewardship is not just the next big sustainability subject. Time and money spent measuring and prioritising water stewardship programmes can provide direct and tangible business benefits for our clients. Early adopters who consider water to be a strategic business and project risk issue will ultimately add value to their bottom line.

Sally Vivian and Jayne Nippress sally.vivian@urs.com /jayne.nippress@urs.com Carbon Disclosure Project, CDP Water Disclosure Global Report 2011

1

Hoekstra, A.Y., Chapagain, A.K., Aldaya, M.M. and Mekonnen, M.M. (2011).

The water footprint assessment manual: Setting the global standard, Earthscan, London, UK 2

Managing conflicting demands for finite resources, such as oil, is not a new issue for business, but water is more complex. As the water industry knows only too well, water scarcity and quality affects specific locations differently depending on the watershed, and this applies to both the present and future situation.

Over the last few years we have seen a huge uptake of carbon footprinting.

Some of URS’ clients are now exploring water footprinting for their businesses and developments. Are water footprinting and stewardship any different from carbon? Water is a more complicated issue than carbon, as factors other than size need to be considered when evaluating the impact, such as location, timing, source of water and social issues. The water footprint of a product (i.e. a commodity, good or service) reflects this greater complexity in that

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Farewell to our Past President and the Chief Executive of Energy & Utility Skills It is with great sadness that we say a farewell to Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of Energy & Utility Skills (EU Skills) and past President of the Institute of Water. EU Skills is the Sector Skills Council for the gas, power, waste management and water industries.

Tim joined EU Skills in 2003 and has worked to ensure it is now considered one of the top performing Sector Skills Councils. Under his leadership, EU Skills has grown from strength to strength, his passion for developing people in the industry has been phenomenal during his 10 years at the helm of the organisation. Working closely with the Institute of Water has also been close to his heart and during his time as President Tim worked tirelessly to raise the profile of the Institute and promoting continuing professional development as a must for anybody working in the industry.

A Yorkshireman, he was well qualified for his work in the sector having begun his career in 1981 as an Apprentice Service Engineer with British Gas. After completing his Apprenticeship, he moved to Leicester to become a training advisor with British Gas Services and then to National Project Manager.

In 1999, Tim went on to look at re-skilling a workforce made redundant in the mining and textile trades of Nottinghamshire before joining the Gas Industry National Training Organisation (GINTO) as Chief Executive and then the Gas and Water Industry National Training Organisation

(GWINTO) before beating candidates UK wide to achieve the position as CEO of EU Skills in 2003.

During his tenure, the Company has worked hard to address the skills’ shortage within the energy and utilities sector and many programmes have been developed to tackle the issue of an ageing workforce and the need to assist employers in up-skilling workers for the gas, power waste management and water industries.

into the successful Women into Work Programme, which has upskilled and given career progression to over 1,500 women.

12 months ago Tim was appointed on to the Board of Ofqual along with ten other new members to work under the Apprenticeships, Schools, Children and Learning Act 2009 as an independent regulator of general and vocational qualifications in England and Northern Ireland.

Tim has established a reputation for helping individuals realise their own potential with his passion for the role and under his leadership EU Skills has enjoyed a number of notable successes including securing £3.6m of funding through the Employer Investment Fund and a further lucrative grant from the Growth and Innovation Fund to develop its employer-endorsed Talent Bank initiative.

Commenting on his decision to stand down for his post with EU Skills, Tim admitted he was sad to leave but ready to take a short break before exploring new challenges.

His passion has also seen the development of an Ambition:Energy programme which took over 2,000 long-term unemployed people and trained them to work with the gas industry. A programme that also won a National Training Award, and was recognised in a prestigious event, with the then Prime Minister Tony Blair. This followed through

“The future for EU Skills looks absolutely fantastic with Talent Bank, the four EIF projects, the National Skills Academy for Power – not to mention a fantastic portfolio of products that underpin our engagement activities. All of this means I am able to leave an organisation at the top of the tree.”

He said: “After 10 of the most fantastic and exhilarating years with EU Skills I feel it is right that I hand over the baton to someone who can take EU Skills forward.

“Tim has worked closely with the Institute of Water since he was appointed as CEO of GWINTO in 2001. With a background in the gas industry, Tim saw us as the place to learn about the water industry and to engage with its employers and employees.

EU Skills have been regulars at our Annual Conference since 2003 and we were delighted when Tim agreed to join our Board as Vice President in 2006. During his time on the Board, Tim not only provided a vital link with EU Skills, he was also able to offer me support as a fellow Chief Executive in a similar role. It was a loss to me when he decided to retire from our Board this time last year. It will be an even bigger loss to the water industry now Tim has left EU Skills. He has shaped and led EU Skills to be one of the most successful Sector Skills Councils, identifying and highlighting skills issues and helping employers to find solutions. He leaves EU Skills in a good position and I thank Tim and wish him success in the future.”

Lynn Cooper, Chief Executive of the Institute of Water

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FEATURE:TIM BALCON

Tim Balcon, Chief Executive of Energy & Utility Skills (EU Skills)

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Delivering Through Partnership Delivering Flexible Training Solutions

Ensuring Outstanding Customer Service

Watertrain is an established and successful provider of technical training and qualifications to the utility sector. Our main aim is to focus on our clients’ needs, specifically in the area of National Apprentice Frameworks.

With over 1000 students currently undertaking training with Watertrain, our comprehensive range of water skills training has been developed to meet your organisation's training and staff development requirements.

Bespoke Training

Training is delivered by a team of skilled specialists, all of whom are quality assured and experienced in delivering training to a high standard. Our range of water skills training includes both accredited training programmes and bespoke solutions tailored to specific needs.

We offer many innovative, high quality, bespoke training opportunities covering a wide range of subjects. The flexible training is specifically designed to meet the needs of your business, as it fits around your requirements and ensures that competence is fully addressed and demonstrated. Bespoke solutions include:• Best practice for preventing and dealing with discoloured water incidents • Cross departmental team work to minimise DG3 incidents • Responding promptly and effectively to reports of leaks on the network • Poor supply investigation and best practice response • Providing excellent customer service in the event of clean water flooding • Enforcing Water Regulations to safeguard the company network • Effective management of leakage data and targeting of leakage resources • Effective cross departmental teamwork to ensure high level of customer satisfaction in respect of the Service Incentive Mechanism • Providing excellent customer service in the event of foul water flooding

Water Industry Apprenticeships • Intermediate Level Apprenticeship (Level 2)

• Dealing effectively with odour complaints

Water Distribution

• Customer awareness during construction activities

Leakage

• Applied Hydraulics for effective Network Management

Water Mainlayer Water Servicelayer Wastewater Treatment Process Operator • Advanced Level Apprenticeship (Level 3) Clean Water Network Clean Water Treatment Wastewater Network Wastewater Treatment

Call Paul Bartlett on 0151 550 4593 or visit www.watertrain.co.uk

Accredited Training Programmes Knowledge-based Qualifications

Competence-based Qualifications

• Level 2 Diploma in Water Engineering (Network Construction Operations)

• Level 1 Certificate in Network Construction Operations (Water)

• Level 2 Diploma in Water Engineering (Water Supply) • Level 2 Diploma in Water Engineering (Water Operations) • Level 2 Diploma in Water Engineering (Wastewater Operations) • Level 3 Diploma in Water Engineering Clean Water Network Clean Water Treatment Wastewater Network Wastewater Treatment • Level 4 HNC in Water Operations

• Level 2 Diploma in Distribution Control • Level 2 Certificate in Leakage Detection • Level 2 Diploma in Monitoring the Water Environment • Level 2 Diploma in Network Construction Operations (Water) – Main Layer • Level 2 Certificate in Network Construction Operations (Water) – Service Layer • Level 2 Diploma in Network Construction Operations (Water) – Repair and Maintenance • Level 2 Certificate in Sewerage Maintenance • Level 2 Diploma in Operating Process Plant (Ground Water Treatment)

• Level 4 HNC in Civil Engineering

• Level 2 Extended Diploma in Operating Process Plant (Ground Water Treatment)

Electrical Courses

• Level 2 Diploma in Operating Process Plant (Surface Water Treatment)

• Electrical Permit to Work

• Level 2 Extended Diploma in Operating Process Plant (Surface Water Treatment)

• Hazardous Areas – Flammable Atmospheres (Skills for practising Electrical Engineers / Electricians)

• Level 2 Diploma in Operating Process Plant (Waste Water Treatment)

• Hazardous Areas – Flammable Atmospheres (Skills for Design Engineers)

• Level 2 Extended Diploma in Operating Process Plant (Waste Water Treatment)

• Hazardous Areas – Flammable Atmospheres (Skills for Engineers / Electricians)

• Level 2 Diploma in Operating Process Plant (Sludge Treatment)

• High Voltage System Operations • High Voltage System Operations (Refresher) • Inspection & Testing for Designers (C&G 2391-20) • Inspection & Testing for Electricians (C&G 2391-10) • Inspection & Testing for Electrical Equipment (C&G 2391-10) • IEE Wiring Regulations (C&G 2382-12)

• Level 2 Certificate in Utilities Control Centre Operations • Level 2 Certificate in Utilities Metering Operations • Level 3 Diploma Controlling Process Operations • Level 3 Diploma in Designing Water Networks • Level 3 Diploma in Leakage Control • Level 3 Certificate in Maintain Water Supply (Network) • Level 3 Diploma in Managing and Controlling Process Operations

Health & Safety Courses • IOSH for Senior Executives • IOSH for Managing Safely • IOSH for Working Safely • Requirements for Chlorine Handling

• Level 3 Diploma in Network Construction Operations (Water) • Level 3 Certificate in Water Fittings Regulations Enforcement • Level 4 Diploma in Utilities Network Planning and Management

Specialist water courses for your professional development CranďŹ eld University’s Water Science Institute is recognised internationally for its excellence in teaching, research and consultancy. Working closely with industry, we offer professionally accredited Masters and Short courses with a proven track record for enhancing careers in the water sector in the UK and overseas.

Courses include: t .4D 8BUFS BOE 8BTUFXBUFS &OHJOFFSJOH t .4D 8BUFS .BOBHFNFOU t *OUSPEVDUJPO UP 1PUBCMF 8BUFS 5SFBUNFOU EBZ DPVSTF

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www.cranďŹ eld.ac.uk/openday

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Whole Life Experience Why personal development is a key differentiator in the recruitment process and what you can do to give yourself the advantage.

In today’s target driven climate, the better an organisation is at maximising and utilising the ability of their people often is the difference between success and failure.

By Jason Johnson, CEO, MBRSS Limited

Individuals now increasingly recognise that the ability to stand out from the crowd is a prerequisite and not an exception. The employment market is more competitive than it has ever been with an average of 23 applications per job across all sectors (Totaljobs). The Association of Graduate Recruitment (AGR) 2011 survey’s findings showed second only to the banking sector which receives an average of 232 applications for every place, the utilities sector receives an average of 187 applications each of its positions, with three-quarters of the companies surveyed requiring a 2:1 to get through the first round.

MBRSS has always held the view that academic and technical skills are a prerequisite. These alone are no longer the determining factor. Time and time again our client’s refer to ‘mind-set’ as one of the most important criteria when selecting the right person for their businesses.

Organisations that do not provide the vehicle or direction for such development tend to be sitting on latent talent that are waiting for the market to show signs of stability to move on. Research has shown investment in an employee’s personal development increases motivation and leads to greater productivity and staff retention. Can any business afford not to develop an effective people strategy?

Developing soft skills are becoming increasingly more important to business success and the thin line between personal and professional

development is diminishing quickly. Technical skills and industry expertise are standards, soft skills are the differentiators. Personal development is something which each individual must take responsibility for. It is about assessing and enhancing your own ability and empowering yourself, how you fit into a team, interact with your peers and present yourself to others.

Be honest. You as an individual must have a desire to be better – for yourself. Without that desire participation in any development programme is futile and will have no real value. Remember, if you lack the belief and genuine interest how can you expect your employer to support your ambitions? You need to confront issues honestly to give clarity and shape the path of your development. Identify what you believe to be your strengths, weaknesses and the tools you think you need to improve your value. Set yourself targets and goals to achieve within realistic timeframes, remember anything worth doing takes time and effort. Your personal development should be viewed as a life-long ambition.

organisations which would like the opportunity to develop their soft skills also and so have now made the course available to everyone (please visit www.mbrss-utilitypro.co.uk for more information).

Our Client workshops are led by our Executive Development Partner – Simesco. They are informative and enlighten hiring managers at all levels to the benefits of life-long learning and soft skill development. It gives an insight into how, through structured support, using alternative approaches can transform the impact an employee can have on the organisation and their ability to contribute in the longer term.

Jason Johnson, CEO, MBRSS Limited jjohnson@mbrss.co.uk For more information, you can contact me directly or one of the UtilityPro team on 0845 833 0452.

Statistics show that the first 90-120 days are critical to the long-term survival of an individual in their new organisation, which is one of the reasons we support our candidates at this time.

MBRSS’ UtilityPro recruitment and executive placement service gives access to an ILM approved development programme to all of our successfully placed permanent candidates. We recognise that there are those already employed within

Remember, the only barrier to your success is you, be proactive and take control of your career today.

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The story so far Evan Dollar, Head of Water Resources for MWH gives his view on the UK Drought and calls for more research and monitoring

We all saw the headlines, ‘UK in drought crisis’, ‘March hottest, driest month for 30 years’, ‘Hosepipe bans in South’ and then in April we had the wettest and possibly coldest month for 100 years. Drought slipped off the front pages.

So how should we respond as water resource practitioners? In all the hubbub, we need to remain balanced and recognise that drought is a naturally occurring phenomenon which the UK is vulnerable to. This was highlighted in 2006 when the southern parts of the country experienced successive dry winter/spring periods followed by a dry, hot summer. The role of successive dry winters is also clearly evident in our 2012 drought situation.

While the UK climate is naturally very variable and each drought event is unique, individual drought clusters provide only limited insight into possible future trends, particularly when considering future climate change impacts where droughts are likely to become more frequent.

From a water resources perspective, the key rainfall period is November to April, when storage reservoirs are re-filled and groundwater replenished. Low winter and early spring rainfall can therefore create supply challenges and lead to ecological stress.

There are also clear regional differences: In the southern lowlands, aquatic ecosystems are largely dependent on aquifers (groundwater) during the summer and autumn. In the northern uplands, aquatic ecosystems are largely dependent on surface water. Thus an important factor determining the impact of drought, and the ability of natural systems to recover from drought is timing, or the extent to which drought is aseasonal for that region (i.e. occurs in the normally wetter months when water resources should be replenished), and supraseasonal (i.e. persists over several seasons and years).

The ability to recover to pre-drought conditions is a key concept in impact analysis. Recovery may mean that over medium and long timescales, droughts have no significant impact. However, when certain thresholds are crossed, recovery may not be possible. For example during the 1976 drought some upland blanket peats altered their physical characteristics beyond a threshold from which they could recover, producing a step change in wetland ecosystems.

It should also be recognised that drought is a complex, multi-faceted phenomenon.

Accordingly, there is a very wide range of

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indicators available for characterising drought, with no single indicator likely to reflect the full range of impacts. Nevertheless, droughts can be usefully considered in terms of their category (meteorological, hydrological & agricultural), extent (spatial), duration (short, medium, long, multi-seasonal/year), intensity and range of impact. Droughts exhibit spatial coherence, and meteorological droughts (rainfall deficits) typically affect large areas simultaneously.

However, it is known that different parts of the UK are vulnerable to droughts of different typical duration and seasonality, owing to their

image © National Drought Mitigation Center different hydrological responses (as illustrated in regional “drought catalogues” for the UK).

The combinations of these factors mean, for example, that a short, intense drought might have a significant impact in the northern uplands, with little or no coincident impact in the southern lowlands. Similarly, longer periods of low rainfall/ flows in the southern lowlands pose a bigger threat, as aquifers are not replenished during the winter period. Antecedent conditions are therefore one of the keys to understanding and predicting drought impacts.

Ecosystems and organisms are adapted to drought in varying degrees. There are some naturally intermittent water bodies that become dry almost every year and have distinct communities that are resilient to or even dependent upon drought (e.g. winterbournes). Accordingly, there are

regional differences in drought impacts which are expressed spatially and temporally. Further, while low flows/droughts have important ecological functions such as promoting/preventing the spread of some invasive species and the recruitment of coarse fish species, they can also have a profound effect on both the structure and functioning of aquatic ecosystems.

There are, however, a number of complexities in assessing the impacts of drought. First, it is difficult to separate drought/low flow impacts from the impacts of warmer water temperatures as these often go hand in hand. Second, human-induced pressures on catchments, such as abstraction, habitat modification, point-source and diffuse-pollution, excess fine sediment, loss of riparian vegetation, amongst other impacts; modify how aquatic ecosystems respond to drought in ways that are not yet fully understood. Impacts also vary with, for example, river type and scale (e.g. hydraulic geometry characteristics). Hence, drought impact needs to be viewed as a multi-pressure problem where ecosystem resistance and resilience to drought are impaired by multiple anthropogenic factors.

So what next?

We need to avoid reacting to droughts by following the ‘hydro-illogical cycle’ (see diagram to left). That’s to say, a drought happens, is widely reported, people panic, emergency measures like hosepipe bans are implemented and then it rains. The urgency disappears, the story stops being reported and the drought is forgotten until the next time. We need to treat drought like any other natural phenomenon – and understand it better. To do this we need further targeted research and monitoring, focusing on predicting the water resource, ecological and social impacts so we can manage it better into the future. The time for action is now, let’s not wait until the next drought when we re-enter the predictable ‘hydroillogical cycle’. Drought needs to be tackled systematically, holistically and rationally.

FEATURE:DROUGHT UPDATE "We need to treat drought like any other natural phenomenon – and understand it better. To do this we need further targeted research and monitoring, focusing on predicting the water resource, ecological and social impacts so we can manage it better into the future. The time for action is now, let’s not wait until the next drought when we re-enter the predictable ‘hydro-illogical cycle’. Drought needs to be tackled systematically, holistically and rationally."

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33

result is Flygt Experior, a uniquely holistic experience that combines state-of-the-art hydraulics, motors, and controls.

Today, Flygt Experior combines N-technology hydraulics and its adaptive functionality, premium efficiency motors and SmartRun – the all-new intelligent control. Flygt Experior comes from years of listening to you and applying our knowledge and expertise, to develop the most reliable and energy-efficient wastewater pumping. It is therefore the ultimate in our commitment to you.

FLYGT EXPERIOR

Flygt Experior™. Inspired by you. Engineered by us.

Flygt Experior™ - a new era in pumping excellence

Flygt, world leaders in submersible pumping and mixing technology, has announced the launch of Flygt Experior™. Hailed as a new era in pumping excellence, Flygt Experior™ unites adaptive N-hydraulics with premium efficiency motors and market leading intelligent controls. The result?

An unrivalled pumping experience that delivers energy savings of up to 50 per cent.

For pump sales call 0115 940 0111 or email sales@flygt.co.uk

flygt.com/FlygtExperior Tony Price, Market Development Manager for Flygt, a Xylem brand said: Premium efficiency motors Flygt is a brand of Xylem, whose 12,000 employees are dedicated to addressing ™ With a guaranteed optimum lifespan, these premium efficiency motors are pumps deliver ultimate reliability, efficiency and simplicity.

“Flygtcomplex Experior issues the most in thethe global water market.

Let’s solve water. designed and manufactured by Flygt and have been optimised by specialist This revolutionary concept gives our customers the freedom to design a pump engineers for the pumping of wastewater. The compact design houses an that is perfectly suited to their needs, by combining state-of-the-art features extremely tough and durable motor, concentrating the losses around the and components. stator in order to maintain a cool operational temperature. This not only “Only the hydraulics, motors and controls that meet the most stringent extends the lifespan of both the motor and the bearings, but achieves efficient ™ performance criteria are selected to carry the Flygt Experior seal of approval. cooling too.

It is this mark of quality that gives our customers the peace of mind that they Tony concludes: “We have spent many years listening to the needs of our are using the world’s best pumping technology.” customers and have continually strived to develop products that meet the Adaptive N-technology hydraulics challenges that they face.

For continuous trouble free pumping, Adaptive N-hydraulics are self-cleaning Flygt Experior combines the three components that we know deliver reliable and deliver unmatched clog-free performance thanks to the unique axial and efficient pumping. And, backed up by the industry’s most extensive sales movement of the N-impeller. Available in cast-iron and hard-iron models and service organisation, we are confident that we have entered a new era in to suit a variety of applications, the unique upwards axial movement allows pumping excellence.” bulky rag to pass with ease whilst reducing the stress on the shaft, seals and Flygt Experior™ approved pumps are available up to 70kW. bearings. Reduced pressure in these areas considerably extends the lifespan of the pump and can reduce electricity consumption by up to 25 per cent.

SmartRun™ intelligent controls Pre-programmed for simplicity, the SmartRun™ intelligence system is integrated into the control panel as an option on every Flygt Experior™ pump, to accurately control the crucial operational parameters. Its intuitive functions allow customers to capitalise on the benefits of variable speed pumping, which can deliver energy, time and cost savings.

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For more information please call 0115 940 0111 or visit www.xylemwatersolutions.com/uk

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KSI Services Ltd KSI Services Ltd is based in Kent and provides high quality Instrumentation and Electrical Services to the Process Industries, Energy Companies, Waste Sector and Water Industry. The company has built its reputation by delivering on time whilst ensuring that Health and Safety Standards are never compromised.

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KSI Services Ltd are available to cover locations throughout the UK and overseas on a 24/7 basis.

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Please contact us to find out more information or arrange a meeting with one of our Engineers to see how KSI Services Ltd can benefit your company.

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Roy Fox Transport Ltd.

Roy Fox Transport Ltd has been providing tailored haulage solutions since 1985. Our expertise in haulage management allows us to deliver anywhere within the UK both efficiently and on time. We operate from our Castleford depot where our 7,000 sq ft warehouse is available for short and long term contacts.

We provide services to all areas ranging from general haulage through to comprehensive distribution arrangements. Under the guidance of Managing Director Kenneth Howley our computerised technology ensures that the company's systems and performance are streamlined and efficient.

Tel. 01977 551500

and The Pallet Network and our staff consists of a highly trained team committed to maintaining a professional and friendly service to all of our clients.

We are able to handle the discharge of hazardous products in several ways: Gravity fed into customer’s own tanks and receptacles.

Pressure discharge from customer’s own pressure tanks and IBCs. Pump discharge into customer’s own tanks and receptacles.

Hazchem Emergency Response Service (HERS)

The company specialises in articulated loads up to 44 tonnes though we can provide vehicles of any size for contract distribution. Our vehicles can be specially adapted to meet with individual requirements including customer's livery and corporate logos.

We believe that our business is more than just moving goods from “A to B�. We pride ourselves with the high level of customer service we provide whilst always looking to improve our services. We are members of the Road Haulage Association

www.khowley.co.uk

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HERS is a coordinated national approach, by dedicated responders, to resolve packaged chemical incidents and environmental emergencies, quickly and safely. HERS is a major step forward in emergency response from a consortium of hazardous goods professionals. These include The Hazchem Network, The National Chemical Emergency Centre, Braemar Howells and OAMPS Petrochemical.

NEW SERVICE: Recently launched, Roy Fox Transport now also offer a nationwide ADR parcel service.

www.royfoxtransport.co.uk instituteofwater.org.uk

35

ABB

LOOMING DROUGHT SHOULD SPUR INVESTMENT

Combining district metering schemes with smart network technology, can help predict where leaks may occur – as carried out here in Project Neptune, a joint venture between United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, ABB, EPSRC and seven universities.

As the UK's official drought is extended beyond the South and East of England, the Department for Environment, Food and Rurual Affairs (DEFRA), claims that some parts of the country are drier than any point since the famous heatwave of 1976.

Consequently, many consumers are being hit with hosepipe bans and farmers are warning about the impact on next year’s crops of restricting the amount of water they can abstract from rivers over the summer It’s not a happy prospect, especially since the news came just weeks before average water bills rose by 5%. But the reality is that it takes a lot of investment to keep us all in showers and cups of tea, let alone Jacuzzis and car washes. It’s also Ofwat that sets the pricing framework, not the water companies, and the regulator recognises that we have to keep investing.

After a lot of neglect throughout the 20th century, we now have some of the best water services in the world, thanks to £90bn invested between 1990 and 2010. Between April 2010 and March 2015, Ofwat wants the industry to invest another £22bn, and the looming water shortage highlights the need for this investment, rather than negating it.

Part of the problem in the south east of England stems from an over-reliance on aquifer stocks.

Over 75% of water consumed in the region originates from aquifers, which are now at dangerously low levels. With organisations such as the Institute of Civil Engineers calling for the introduction of more creative ways of conserving

36

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water, including grey water systems, compulsory water meters and even permeable pavements, companies should also be looking at how to make the most of our precious resources.

As such, leakage reduction remains a major priority. Leakage figures across the UK have so far remained stubbornly at between 15 and 25%, equating to some 3,300 megalitres per day, so there’s still huge scope for improvement.

Whilst it’s encouraging to spot water companies using Twitter to ask their customers to keep an eye out for leaks, it’s also slightly worrying too. The amount of water lost from a given flaw depends on the water pressure and the length of time taken to fix it, so it’s crucial to have the metering technologies in place to track down problems fast, rather than relying on the diligence of the general public.

There is technology available that can not only identify where leaks are happening, but also spot situations where they are likely to happen too.

District metering schemes, a long time tool in the fight against leakage, have now been joined by smart network technology, which monitors parameters such as pressure and flow to identify potential weak spots in a water distribution system where leaks are likely to occur.

Investment in these techniques is certainly more practical than grand schemes like piping water en masse from the soggy northwest to the parched southeast – an idea most recently championed by London mayor Boris Johnson. That idea has been a dead duck since 2006, when the Environment Agency concluded that better regional water conservation measures could be as effective for a fraction of the cost.

Any increase in prices is always going to be unpopular with the public, especially at a time when household incomes are already stretched.

While such rises may be a bitter pill to swallow, at least we can still wash it down with a glass of water. If we fail to make the investments needed in safeguarding today’s water stocks, then in future we may not even be able to take this basic luxury for granted.

For more information, call 0870 600 6122 or email moreinstrumentation@gb.abb.com ref. ‘leakage’.

Tony Hoyle, ABB General Sales Manager UK & Ireland

KEEP CALM GO WITH THE

FLOW 1935 was a good year for progressing cavity (pc) pumps. We started the UK manufacture of pc pump technology, and since then, Mono products have set the standard around the world. We’re proud of innovative new designs like our EZstrip family - quick, simple, maintain in place systems that mean downtime can be measured in minutes.

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At the heart of British ingenuity For more information on the Mono EZstrip range, visit:

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Selwood provides the complete Pump Hire, Sales and Service package for all your requirements.

Along with pumps ranging from 50mm to 300mm discharge, Selwood also offers you 1st class in-depth technical expertise. ● Surface Mounted Diesels incorporating Selwood’s unique environmentally friendly priming system - Solids Handling - High Head - High Volume - Super Silent from 55db(A) ● Submersibles - Drainage - Sewage - Sludge - Slurry ● Hydraulic Submersible ● Chopper Pumps ● Site Surveys ● Site Installations ● Method Statements ● Risk Assessments ● Pumping Accessories ● Remote Mobile Telemetry ● Road Ramp

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SELWOOD

Setting the 'green' standard As one of the country’s leading pump hire companies, Selwood is particularly conscious of its responsibility to the environment and takes every opportunity to implement a ‘green’ policy.

This is more easily attainable with the company’s own manufactured range of pumps. Selwood has introduced a new generation of super silent pumps recognised as the quietest pumps on the market today. These have been specially designed for applications in noise sensitive areas and, with noise levels as low as 58db(A) at full speed and load, are the most environmentally friendly pumps available. The units come with bunded fuel tanks as standard.

Selwood pumps also incorporate the company’s own unique Selprime self-priming system utilising a water tolerant diaphragm air pump. An environmentally friendly design that has none of the problems of oil vapour emissions and oil emulsification associated with other priming systems.

All the diesel pump engine emissions are compliant to the latest regulations and Selwood has introduced Telemetry and Auto Start systems to its super silent range utilising both floats and ultrasonic level devices that have greatly reduced the consumption of fuel at many sites. The benefit is that the pumps only work when the flows require it and they do not need attendance as they start automatically on demand.

Selwood also has a range of hydraulic submersible pumps and these are all filled with bio-degradable oil. In certain instances, such as at the Hunstanton Sealife Centre, research was undertaken in order not to harm seals and a special non-toxic oil was used. Selwood also use vegetable oil in the mechanical seal chambers of its pumps.

Bio-degradable oil has also been used in ordinary plant, such as dumpers and excavators, when specifically requested. Spill Kits are offered and supplied when required for all machines.

As an alternative to diesel and hydraulic pumps, Selwood has a range of electric driven surface pumps and will also build to specific requirements.

All new electric builds now have EFFI motors that have both environmental and tax benefits to the end user.

set of QHSE standards having already achieved accreditation to ISO 9001 and OHSAS 18001.

Selwood is increasingly active in achieving and demonstrating sound environmental performance by controlling the impacts of its activities, products and services on the environment.

With regard to other environment issues, the large utilities companies in particular demand that suppliers have environmental management systems in place. More and more clients are expecting companies to do their bit in respecting the environmental issues they face such as waste removal after site servicing. In some cases they may pay extra for this service. In the past Selwood has arranged half day Environmental Awareness Workshops for water authorities and this is an ongoing service Selwood offers to water authorities and contractors.

Already this year, Selwood has made a significant investment by enhancing its already sizeable hire fleet with £3m worth of new pumps. Nearly £2m of this has been spent on its own range of super silent S150 pumps but a considerable amount has also been spent on ATEX approved electric submersible pumps for use in potentially explosive environments. The company feels that it is important to continue to increase and update its fleet to meet demand and to provide a reliable and efficient service.

As a company Selwood has undertaken a review of its environmental aspects and impacts and set targets to reduce the impacts in certain areas such as oil storage, discharges to the drains and energy savings.

The company achieved the Environmental Standard ISO 14001 in all of its branches in October 2005 to become one of the few companies in the country to hold a complete

Last year Selwood opened a specialist pump centre in Liverpool primarily to service its northern branch network. It proved to be so successful that it is currently the company’s distribution centre for the whole of the country for electro submersibles and ancillary equipment.

However, Selwood will shortly be opening a specialist pump centre in Bedford that will service its southern branch network.

instituteofwater.org.uk

39

Maximum screenings removal Discharge directly from tankers without buffering Fully automatic operation Eliminates blockages by effective rag removal

www.cdenviro.com CDEnviro Ltd, Ballyreagh Industrial Estate, Sandholes Road, Cookstown, BT80 9DG T: +44 28 8676 7900 F: +44 28 8676 7900 E: info@cdenviro.com

CDENVIRO

Further developments in sludge screening from CDEnviro Since the 2010 launch of the S:Max sludge screen into the UK sewage and waste water treatment market, CDEnviro have made a number of further developments to the range.

SRU:10 The S:Max range has recently seen the addition of the SRU:10, based on the successful SRU:25 with a number of product refinements, designed to handle a smaller flow rate.

“The SRU:25 was initially designed for use at major sludge processing sites and has been very successful where it has been implemented” explains Matt Bunting, General Manager for CDEnviro “The introduction of the SRU:10 model ensures that the range includes the flexibility to cope with a range of capacity requirements both within the major water companies and industrial applications.”

The SRU:10 offers a sludge screening capacity of 33l/s and is equipped with the same design features that are available on the larger model.

The addition of the SRU:10 to the range allows for reduced capacities in particular indigenous sludge applications whilst maintaining the capability for tankers to discharge directly to the S:Max, eliminating the need for a reception tank.

An automated backwash system on the S:Max minimises the requirement for operator intervention to clear blockages from the screening system. The need for operator intervention is further reduced thanks to the removal of the reception tank as it is here that the build-up of screenings often causes blockages.

MSU:10 CDEnviro have recently unveiled their MSU:10 sludge screen, which can be transported by a standard six yard skip vehicle.

A portable sludge screen, the MSU:10 has been designed to facilitate efficient liquid and solid separation from a variety of applications. It can be applied to several suitable applications including; screenings removal from sludge, grit removal from

sludge, pre screener for removal of larger debris/ screenings prior to further processing, temporary import sludge screen.

Commenting on the launch of the MSU:10, Matt Bunting said “The introduction of the MSU:10 is an important development milestone for the CDEnviro R&D team. Our customers require innovative sludge handling solutions and reduced operating costs without compromising on functionality and this is what we have delivered with the MSU:10”.

The design of the MSU:10 into a single complete unit allows for transportation by a standard six yard skip vehicle. This design removes the need for expensive crane lifts & associated lift specific risk assessments and method statements, reduces transportation costs and ensures a quick set up on location.

The MSU:10 has been designed to ensure that operating costs are kept to a minimum with a generator of no more than 40Kva required to run the unit. As with the larger models in the S:Max range, the unit is supplied pre-wired and fitted with its own control panel, isolator and electrical sockets for easy connection to a power source.

The portable nature of the MSU:10 model makes it the first of its kind in the industry and a significant development by the R&D team at CDEnviro. Two of the units have already been commissioned by a UK Water utility company who has purchased the units to complement an existing CDEnviro 1st generation D:Max unit purchased in 2007.

The S:Max range incorporates all of the specifications required by the UK Water Industry as standard, including ATEX zones 1 and 2 explosion proof vibrating motors, anti-pegging screen media, WIMES protective coatings and fully galvanised walkways and access stairs to ensure safe and easy operator access.

Additional options can also be added across the S:Max range where required, including odour enclosures, which are often necessary for the safe operation and placement of the S:Max within a building. Also available is automated frost protection and an integrated conveyor for stockpiling of screenings.

For more information on the S:Max range and all products from CDEnviro visit www.cdenviro.com or follow us on twitter @CDEnviro

instituteofwater.org.uk

41

ATG UV PROVIDE SOLUTION TO DWI GUIDELINES FOR DRINKING WATER & CRYPTOSPORIDIUM PROTECTION With systems treating in excess of 5,000 m3/ hr daily, Ultraviolet disinfection is no longer an ‘emerging’ technology. A number of Water Treatment Works across the UK are now investing heavily in Ultraviolet technology, as the threat of chlorine resistant parasites such as Cryptosporidium and Giardia continues to pose a serious risk to water companies and their customers.

As an industry expert with considerable experience in supplying US EPA Validated UV systems for Cryptosporidium protection, atg UV Technology are well placed to support and advise all drinking water companies on the application of the DWI guidelines including validation, log reduction, RED Dose, installation into existing infrastructures, upgrades and retrofits, ongoing industry regulation and future product development. atg UV have designed and developed a large range of UV systems specifically for municipal drinking water treatment and Cryptosporidium protection applications. All atg UV drinking water systems are fully compliant with the requirements of the 2010 DWI guidelines.

Cryptosporidium outbreaks are now becoming increasingly frequent in all areas of the water industry. However, due to recent successes with UV systems following a number of high profile outbreaks at drinking water sites worldwide, the ability to effectively protect against Cryptosporidium is now becoming a reality for water treatment engineers worldwide.

In the UK, this reality has become further endorsed by the DWI, who have issued their guidelines for UV operation and system selection to the UK water industry. A key feature of their guidance is UV system validation. Validation refers to a series of 3rd party testing to ensure the performance of an Ultraviolet system design under a range of operating environments.

The DWI guidance states: “DWI recommends any water company considering the use of UV irradiation for the disinfection of public water supplies to consult the US EPA Ultraviolet Disinfection Guidance Manual (UVDGM)”

Pictured above: atg UV 5,000 m3/hr drinking water systems for 3 log reduction of cryptosporidium.

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atg UV’s product range offers fully validated and 3rd party tested US EPA UVDGM systems that deliver a 1 - 5 log reduction of Cryptosporidium or validated 40 RED dose for flows as small as 10 m3/hr to over 5,000 M3/ hr within a single compact system.

atg UV can offer standard Low Pressure Amalgam and Medium Pressure UV systems. Additionally atg UV also offer bespoke ultraviolet disinfection / treatment systems including bespoke PLC design, and integration services, offering clients an individually tailored service to solve the most complex of disinfection problems

Municipal clients currently operating atg UV Technology systems include; Anglian Water, Southern Water, Surrey & East Sutton Water, Three Valleys Veolia, Welsh Water, and Yorkshire Water.

If you require any further information on UV disinfection, or wish to learn more about how to improve and upgrade your existing UV systems to meet the 2010 DWI guidelines, please contact our technical sales team on: 01942 216161.

For further information please call atg UV Technical Sales on tel: 01942 216161 / www.atguv.com

42

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Agbar Agbarlaunches launches the theAqualogy AqualogyBrand Brand

Agbar Agbar has has launched launched Aqualogy Aqualogy as the as the brand brand for its for global its global technology technology andand solutions solutions division. division.

The The Agbar Agbar group group operates operates in four in four continents continents andand is one is one of the of the world’s world’s largest largest water water andand wastewater wastewater companies, companies, withwith products, products, services services andand expertise expertise available available for the for the entire entire water water cycle. cycle.

As Aqualogy, As Aqualogy, it isitmaking is making its unique its unique technology, technology, highhigh levels levels of capability of capability andand extensive extensive experience experience available available to water to water companies companies andand commercial commercial customers. customers.

Aqualogy Aqualogy in theinUKthe is also UK isbringing also bringing its its own businesses own businesses closercloser together together to work to more work more effectively. effectively.

Agbar Agbar Environment Environment and Marral and Marral now operate now operate under under the Aqualogy the Aqualogy banner. banner.

boilers. boilers.

Today,Today, as a division as a division of Aqualogy, of Aqualogy, it has itgrown has grown to offer to aoffer widea range wide range of water of water related related services services basedbased aroundaround its “Care” its “Care” range range of products: of products: -

PrintCare™ PrintCare™

MarralMarral has been has providing been providing water water treatment treatment services services to blue tochip blueclients chip clients acrossacross the UKthe UK since 1984. since 1984.

In August In August 2011 it2011 acquired it acquired the the water water hygiene hygiene division division of Bristol of Bristol Water,Water, whichwhich brought brought additional additional capabilities. capabilities.

ThermCare™ ThermCare™

Additional Additional services services to these to these products products Aqualogy Aqualogy provides provides include: include:

Now as Now a division as a division of Aqualogy of Aqualogy it offers it offers specialist specialist services services in: in: Q

Pressure Q Pressure testing testing of water of water distribution distribution systems systems

Q

Chlorination Q Chlorination of water of water distribution distribution systems systems including including trunk trunk mainsmains

Q

Installation, Q Installation, commissioning, commissioning, servicing servicing and testing and testing of Reduced of Reduced Pressure Pressure Zone Zone ValvesValves (RPZ valves) (RPZ valves)

Originally Originally MarralMarral was focussed was focussed on theon the heat exchange heat exchange marketmarket specialising specialising in thein the management management of cooling of cooling towerstowers and water and water treatment treatment for large for commercial/industrial large commercial/industrial

Treatment Treatment regimes regimes to manage to manage boilersboilers to BS to EN BS 12492, EN 12492, including including chemical chemical dosingdosing and reverse and reverse osmosis. osmosis.

Specialist Specialist water water treatment treatment systemsystem for thefor the print industry print industry allowing allowing operation operation of presses of presses on alcohol-free on alcohol-free fount fount solutions. solutions.

Q

BreadCare™ BreadCare™ Used extensively Used extensively in theinbakery the bakery marketmarket for thefor the Q treatment treatment of breadcooler of breadcooler water.water.

TowerCare™ TowerCare™

Full Q Legionella Full Legionella support support including, including, Risk assessments Risk assessments to BS 8580:2010, to BS 8580:2010, risk risk assessment assessment reviews, reviews, monitoring monitoring services, services, tank and tanksystem and system cleaning cleaning and sampling and sampling Bespoke Q Bespoke water water treatment treatment plant plant for processes for processes

Q Treatment Treatment regimes regimes to manage to manage evaporative evaporative cooling cooling towerstowers to meet to the meet requirements the requirements of of Q Legionella Legionella controlcontrol legislation, legislation, tower tower cleaning. cleaning.

Q

Bespoke Q Bespoke effluent effluent treatment treatment plant plant for industry for industry

Specialist Specialist site specific site specific irrigation irrigation chemicals chemicals for specialist for specialist turf applications, turf applications, designed designed to to improve improve drainage, drainage, soil structure soil structure and uptake and uptake of nutrients. of nutrients.

Engineering Q Engineering services: services: - design - design and and build and buildservicing and servicing of RO,of softeners, RO, softeners, dealkalisation, dealkalisation, filtration, filtration, chlorine, chlorine, chlorine chlorine dioxide dioxide dosingdosing and pHand correction pH correction

GolfCare™ GolfCare™

Q

Softener Q Softener installation installation and servicing and servicing Alternative Q Alternative water water supplies supplies such such as boreholes as boreholes

instituteofwater.org.uk instituteofwater.org.uk 2

45 2

MWH

ENERGY FACTORIES – THE FUTURE FOR UK WWTs? Richard Ratcliff, MWH water sector director, reviews how the UK water industry could learn from the Dutch rebranding of their sewage treatment works

In the Netherlands, no-one talks about building WWT or STW plants anymore – they talk about Nutrient, Energy or Water Factories. The potential of waste in Energy Factories appeals to the energy and environmentally conscious Dutch and has fired their interest in the wastewater industry.

Rebranding waste treatment as a valuable and sustainable resource has resulted in increased support for government investment of public funds into research and development (R&D) and construction.

Collaboration across Dutch water companies and between water and waste sectors has driven this change. Unfortunately because of UK restrictions and major legislative barriers, our water industry is prevented from taking a similar holistic long term view. If these barriers were removed the UK could easily emulate the Netherlands approach.

The NEWs MWH investigated the Energy Factory concept as part of an international research project for STOWA – the Dutch Foundation for Applied Water Research. We demonstrated that the future of sustainable Sewage Treatment Works (STW) is as Energy Factories because by 2030 they could be generating surplus energy. In fact we identified three new concepts – Nutrient, Energy, and Water Factories (NEWs) all of which will be sustainable and able to recover valuable resources from sewage waste, deliver sustainability and energy reductions of around 40% across the asset base.

The first of these concepts to be developed is the Energy Factory and 13 of the 26 water authorities in the Netherlands have already conducted feasibility studies. These show that by upgrading existing STWs, energy-neutral, and even energygenerating STWs, are technologically possible.

These concepts are taking off because the Dutch wastewater authorities need to continuously innovate to manage rising energy prices and energy efficiency agreements with their government. By committing to a two per cent reduction in energy usage, year on year, until 2030, they created the impetus for the industry to reformulate their wastewater treatment plants as Energy Factories.

46

creating processes to fulfil their legislated requirements. This is driving innovations like the re-branding to help to future proof their industry.

The UK, by contrast, is severely restricted by its five year investment and planning cycles and its set amount of money. If these restraints were removed, we could start to make changes and increase our power consumption and or generation from these types of sites in the UK. Long term planning also leads to full lifecycle efficiencies as there are no ‘stranded assets’ and benefits can be accrued over 30 years. Our short five year UK investment cycle can lead to stranded assets and lost opportunities. Over 30 years you can look strategically at your asset base and look for radical solutions.

Dutch take calculated risks while UK plays it safe The Dutch are not afraid to trial things. If it doesn’t work they just move on to the next thing.

In the UK, investment is seen as capital outlay which must generate a return. This makes us very reserved in terms of R&D into new technologies and in practice means we tend to play it safe using only proven or tried and tested technologies.

Despite being publicly owned, the Dutch utilities benefit from government commitment to research and development and wide-scale public support.

The push to reduce energy consumption has been the catalyst for the Netherlands to invest in strategic R&D to develop new technologies they can share. This is giving them an impressive lead over other countries. As we no longer create such technologies in the UK, we are beginning to implement some of the new Dutch technologies.

For example United Utilities, Severn Trent and Anglian Water are putting in low carbon Dutch technology for the treatment of high strength ammoniacal liquors.

Collaborative culture

Taking the long view

Another big advantage the Dutch have is their collaborative culture especially among the Dutch water sector, utilities and government.

The industry has developed generic energy factory flow sheets for short and medium term approaches, as well as the long term strategic NEWater 2030 roadmap.

Medium term the Dutch are focusing on finding energy neutral solutions and longer term on

Many of the energy factory business cases have been developed with multiple consultancy

instituteofwater.org.uk

involvement, leading to best practise solutions for specific sites. Some water companies are coming together to develop energy factories in order to produce the most holistic and sustainable solution.

This has even extended to joint collaboration with regional waste companies leading to concepts optimising the energy balance and maximising the ability to reuse energy (heat) sources. Tilburg will be the first Energy Factory - this project has recently been tendered - closely followed by a brand new Energy Factory at Den Bosch (400,000 population equivalent).

Waste as a valuable resource Currently the focus in Holland is on Energy Factories, but the goal is to combine the three MWH concepts into one Nutrient, Energy and Water factory (or STW) focusing on waste as a valuable raw material.

The Energy Factory aims at maximising energy recovery from sewage sludge, whereas the Nutrient Factory aims at recovering valuable resources (phosphorus) from wastewater. This will be of interest to UK water companies as they now recognise the need to recover and recycle phosphorus as its global price increases and its global reserves reduce. The Water Factory aims at reusing wastewater for different purposes, such as process water, boiler feed water, recreation water and agricultural water. Each concept involves a different set of treatment techniques and the capital cost will play an important role in the selection of the treatment technologies within all three.

Given the UK Water Industry is increasingly under pressure to reduce energy consumption and maximise renewable energy generation this new Dutch approach should be of interest. I believe that with some changes to our mindset, increased collaboration, public and governmental support these NEWater Factory concepts are very transferable to the UK water industry. In fact I don’t think it will be too long before we see our first UK Energy Factories.

For more information please email mwhuk.info@ mwhglobal.com or visit www.mwhglobal.com

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FIBREGLASS FILTERS A DURABLE SOLUTION FOR WATER TREATMENT WORLDWIDE Waterco meeting the need with unique products The proliferation of water treatment and desalination facilities around the world in recent years has seen a concurrent increase in demand for commercial / industrial sized water filters.

Waterco, an international water treatment and filtration manufacturer and distributor, has been developing filters and technologies for more than 30 years and today its products are used for a myriad of processes including saltwater desalination, industrial process water treatment, cooling water treatment, pre-treatment for reverse osmosis processes, waste water treatment, and potable and drinking water. Filtration equipment has a broad area of usefulness in the water treatment process.

as those required to reduce the corrosive nature of the water being treated.

In summary there are two key features which give fibreglass filters their broad usefulness.

First, filters are used to remove and/or reduce the amount of unwanted suspended solid contaminants in water. Second, depending on the media used, filters can change the water chemistry by removing unwanted dissolved contaminants such as organic material, heavy metals etc, or by controlled introduction of needed chemicals such

“Using non metallic components, fibreglass pressure tanks are rapidly replacing steel tanks in numerous water treatment applications,” says Fisher. “Fibreglass vessels offer several advantages compared with steel filters.

“Water is a finite and vulnerable resource, and it’s vital to preserve it,” says Tony Fisher, managing director of Waterco Europe. “It means that filtration is playing an even greater role in industrial and commercial water processes, which is why Waterco continues to innovate to provide suitable solutions.”

To date, Micron filters have been used in applications as diverse as a water treatment facility in Basra Iraq, groundwater remediation, ammonia removal and reverse osmosis pre-treatment to a desalination plant aboard a cruise ship.

For more information on Waterco Micron filters, contact Waterco Europe on +44(0)1795 521 733 or through info@waterco.eu

Waterco is one of only a few companies worldwide which manufactures large, high pressure-rated filters; a key point of difference is that Waterco uses the latest in fibreglass winding technology, which it employs in the Micron range of fibreglass filters.

“Waterco’s Micron fibreglass filters are manufactured from the highest grade of noncorrosive materials, and they are designed and built for many years of trouble-free operation.”

HUBER Technology supply stainless steel equipment to treat wastewater.

The equipment supplied is suitable for both municipal and industrial applications.

The diverse product range contains a wide range of equipment suitable to treat all applications ranging from inlet works to tertiary treatment.

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Membrane Filtration Disc Filters All products are customised to suit individual site requirements and specifications and can be supplied complete with control panels.

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The Landscape for Training in the Utility Sector

Comment from John Kerr Utilities Director at Develop Training

The ever-growing demand of modern living, the climate change challenge and the increasing need to protect our environment and its valuable resources is resulting in a complex and ever-shifting challenge for the water industry. The population in the UK is growing and an increase in smaller households impacts on the current networks for both water and sewage. Legal requirements, such as the Water Framework Directive are also forcing change on the industry To meet these increasing challenges ongoing improvement and innovation is needed by every water company. But this has to be met whilst considering low costs to users and good customer service. To deliver this a workforce with the right skills and resources is going to be ever more essential.

The utility sector in the UK also faces a massive

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challenge created by a decline in head count as companies seek to achieve efficiencies. This is compounded by an aging workforce where the general age profile shows 17% of the operational workforce are between the ages of 50 and 66.

So the challenge is twofold, retaining and motivating the current skilled workforce and ensuring that new recruits are provided with the

right skills quickly and effectively.

In terms of training, delivering return on investment is going to be ever more essential in the water industry particularly knowing the challenges the sector faces as well as looking at the bigger picture. Operators face tough questions when considering how to invest in learning and development, and particularly so

FEATURE:UTILITIES TRAINING

in difficult economic times when all investments must be able to demonstrate a return.

This means that more effort will be required in future for focusing training on bottom line expectations and measurable successful outcomes by asking the question “What will success look like after completing this training?” All too frequently learning professionals move to the development of new training without first establishing what outcomes are expected from the exercise.

Training has always been traditionally very tough to gauge: many don’t measure its impact properly, with even fewer doing it consistently well.

In terms of the bigger picture research also suggests that up to 70% of employee learning in the utility sector occurs on the job so looking at the wider picture is essential.

The role of supervisors and managers after the training occurs is becoming much more important in the reinforcement of the agreed message and in coaching and mentoring after each training event. The follow-up to training in the form of back up is the key driver to achieving the tangible results anticipated from training. The same research has confirmed that a typical organisation invests 85% of its resources in a training event and that these events only contribute 24% of the total learning effectiveness of delegates.

The activities that lead to the most effective learning were follow up activities that occur after the training event in the workplace. This underlines the need for training to be experiential rather than purely theory based.

So more and more training in the future is going to focus on continuous “on–the-job” learning once formal training has occurred and will include a more holistic approach. This will mean that training provides maximum value even more so when looking at very specific business objectives.

Another opportunity in terms of workforce optimisation is multi-skilling, this is already used by many of the major utility companies as a good option to maximise trained staff. The focus shifts from a team member who is trained only in one utility to additional skilling meaning they can be a multi-utility operator in the future. This is most successfully achieved through a combination of traditional, technical and the latest behavioural training needed to deliver a competent, highly skilled, flexible workforce.

So in these changing times tough questions need to be asked of any training and development to ensure it achieves maximum value and return on investment and helps an operator meet its wider business objectives.

Training in a virtual world Treatment works simulators prepare operators for what they hope will never happen Water and wastewater operator training often relies heavily on ”on-the-job” experience, supported by regular classroom sessions to provide the understanding of the underlying processes, principles and operating requirements. Knowledge and skills gained are typically monitored by a trained assessor as training progresses. Classroom sessions, although valuable, cannot provide direct experience of problems that occur (and how to handle them), at the operator’s plant.

As these events are often infrequent, and it is either not practical or too risky to re-create them for training purposes, the operator may lack both the knowledge and the confidence to deal with them when they do.

WRc has addressed this problem by developing a treatment works simulator, for water or wastewater treatment, that replicates on a pc the operator’s treatment works. The operator is exposed, in a training environment, to a range of scenarios that simulate frequent, infrequent and very infrequent events. Operators need to make the appropriate decisions to deal with these via a familiar SCADA simulation interface.

A big advantage of the system is that the operator deals with the same SCADA screens, with inputs, outputs and controls, which he uses to operate the real works. A further advantage is that the scenarios can be run in virtual, speeded up, time. The operator’s responses are recorded for training purposes and can be reviewed post incident.

The training tools help operators and others involved in water and wastewater treatment to understand the principles and requirements of processes, and to test this understanding in simulated works operation.

The software provides the capability to replay individual scenarios to identify how alarms were handled and decisions made, providing the basis for formally assessing the understanding and competency of operators in a structured way.

One scenario for water treatment indicates reducing chlorine residuals and a potential loss of disinfection. The operator needs to investigate the various possible causes and then take the most appropriate action. In

by Ian Walker Innovation Director, WRcplc

real life a failure to deal with the problem might mean that inadequately disinfected water is put into distribution. In simulation a failure simply leads to lessons being learned.

The ability of a company to train and demonstrate competency in their operating staff is increasingly been seen by the regulators as a critical necessity. Being able to do this with tools that simulate the installed treatment works should provide the regulators and the water and wastewater companies with greater confidence that the operators will be able to deal effectively with events which although infrequent may have very serious consequences. Although it is a fully simulated environment, those who have tried the package report that the level of concern, and even panic that rises as more alarms are triggered is real enough.

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Glencorse: turning the tap on Capital’s new water supply Scottish Water is turning on the tap at the new Glencorse Water Treatment Works, delivering a 21st century drinking water supply for its customers in Edinburgh.

The delivery of the £130 million project completes Scottish Water’s major water investment for Edinburgh and the Lothians to deliver high quality water.

The state-of-the-art works which nestles discreetly in the rolling Pentland Hills, will supply up to 450,000 customers across the city and parts of

Midlothian with around 175 million litres of water every day.

Glencorse is also at the forefront of Scottish Water’s drive to deliver renewable energy from its assets and a third of the works energy needs will be provided by an on-site hydro turbine.

blending it sensitively into its surroundings under the largest ‘grass’ roof in Scotland. Rainwater harvested as part of this agricultural engineering forms bio-diverse wetlands, providing a habitat for indigenous insects, animals and plants.

Construction of the 15 kilometre pipeline linking the new Glencorse water treatment works with the existing network in Edinburgh was an engineering feat in itself, recording a world first, with a mobile pipeline production plant ‘dropped’ adjacent to the pipeline route. This helped remove a million lorry miles from the project, the equivalent of driving to the moon and back twice.

Children from Glencorse Primary School who took part in the project's 3 year education programme

Directionally tunnelling allowed the team to slide the new trunk main underneath the Edinburgh City Bypass ensuring the pipeline progressed without disturbing the thousands of commuters who use this vital artery every day.

Richard Ackroyd, Scottish Water’s Chief Executive, said: “This is an extremely important project to construct a new water treatment works serving nearly half a million customers across Edinburgh and parts of Midlothian. It has been delivered on schedule and under budget, with sustainability at its very core.

“This is a water treatment works fit for the 21st century, leading the water industry and at the cutting edge of the construction industry. The Glencorse WTW will benefit our customers for generations to come, and both the works and its product – clear, fresh Scottish drinking water, will be something that we can all be proud of for a very long time.”

By carefully monitoring the economic climate, Scottish Water has ensured significant savings on the procurement of materials for the project, ensuring the project was delivered on time and under budget. At its height Scottish Water and construction delivery partners Black & Veatch employed around 400 construction engineers on the £130 million programme.

Sustainability is central to the Glencorse Water Project with raw water supplies fed, by gravity, from our reservoirs in the Borders. This raw natural force drives the facility’s powerful turbine.

Treated water is then delivered directly into the capital using the same natural force.

Mike Barcroft, Black & Veatch’s Client Centre Director for Scotland said:

The location of the facility was chosen following one of the largest consultations and evaluations in Scottish Water’s history. The site at the foot of the Pentlands has been specially landscaped,

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Aerial view

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“Sustainability and community have been at the project’s heart throughout. We sought to deliver more than just a sound engineering solution.

Black & Veatch recognised the bigger picture: the needs of the public and the environment; and incorporated them into the way we acted as a partner to Scottish Water.”

George Merry, Managing Director of KWH Pipe UK Ltd, said: "We worked closely with Scottish Water and construction partners Black & Veatch to deliver a world first achievement. The mobile pipeline production plant, which is to be replicated on a number of other projects around the world, was not only an outstanding engineering feat, but one that ensured the best possible environmental practice on a large scale project, leaving a positive impact on the local community."

The project will also help to support the economic growth and development of the capital and its surrounding area.

Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, David Birrell, said: "The delivery of high quality drinking water to communities and businesses is a fundamental element of sustainable economic growth. Not only has Scottish Water safeguarded our future supply with this project, they have improved it, both in quality and efficiency of delivery.

"At a time when the budget for major capital works is under close scrutiny, it is praiseworthy that the Glencorse project is on time, on budget and supported by some enterprising green technology solutions."

The project will also boost the city’s £2 billion tourism economy with clearer, fresher drinking water for hotels, restaurants, cafes and bars; underpinning Scotland’s global reputation for the purity of its food and drink.

Malcolm Rann, General Manager at the Radisson Blu in the High Street, added: "We are the custodians of quality in tourism and the image of Scotland. Often first and last impressions are gained in hotels and it is critical that the water supply is seen as a crystal clear product and tasting good."

This is a project of which Scottish Water is extremely proud, and one which the people of Edinburgh and Midlothian will hold very dear for generations to come.

FEATURE:SCOTLAND

Senior Project Manager Kenny Naylor in the pipe gallery

Glencorse Factsheet n The Glencorse Water Project has been delivered on time and under budget.

n Producing these extra long pipes on site means the pipeline needs fewer welds, reduces the necessary handling, makes the pipeline more robust and helps to reduce the construction period.

n Glencorse Water Treatment Works (WTW) will deliver a 21st century replacement to the existing Fairmilehead(1909) and Alnwickhill(1885) water treatment works, which despite serving the city well for over a century, are now at the end of their working life.

n Retaining earth excavated on site to use as part of the landscaping effort played a part in reducing 75 per cent of all construction traffic.

n The WTW will deliver up to 175 million litres of water every day. That’s enough water to fill Edinburgh’s Commonwealth Pool around 70 times every day.

n The final plant has been angled 90 degrees from the original design following the discovery of a 2000 year old Roman camp during further archaeological investigations.

n Because of its location, the facility will be supplied with raw water and deliver treated water directly into the capital using gravity. The Glencorse WTW is at the forefront of Scottish Water’s renewable energy thinking.

n Findings of Cromwellian military artefacts were also made at the site of an old World War Two army camp situated along the pipeline route. These were displayed in an open day for local residents.

n Around a third of the plant’s energy needs (200kw) will be supplied by an on-site hydro turbine.

n Sustainable Scottish larch was also used to provide a facia for the walls of the treatment buildings. Over time this robust cladding will become a soft silvery, grey colour.

n The largest ‘grass’ roof in Scotland will help to sensitively blend the water treatment works into the neighbouring Pentland Hills. This will also harvest rainwater, which will be stored in bio-diverse wetlands, providing rich habitats for a number of insect, animal and plant species. n Two treatment buildings and a storage tank are covered by ‘grass’ roofs at the facility, an area totalling around 43,000m² or the equivalent of 4 football pitches. n The ‘grass’ roof was grown by turf specialists Stewarts on the banks of Loch Leven and is made up of a mix of indigenous Pentlands’ grasses and wild flowers. n In a world first a temporary mobile pipe manufacturing plant was installed on the pipeline route in Midlothian. This helped to reduce lorry journeys by a million miles – the distance between the moon and back twice.

n The Glencorse Water Project has already won a number of prestigious awards including the Chartered Institute of Water and Environmental Management (CIWEM), World of Difference Award; the international Green Apple Environment Award and a trio of Considerate Constructor Gold Awards. n Scottish Water is always reviewing its assets portfolio, particularly redundant assets to seek value where possible. As such we are in advanced stages of preparing Fairmilehead and Alnwickhill for sale. We have received ‘planning permission in principle’ for Fairmilehead and await a decision on Alnwickhill. We will retain the office complex and car park at Fairmilehead.

This is an important strategic office for Scottish Water, housing our customer contact centre, operations team for the area and a number of key construction, planning and administration departments.

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Flexible solutions – single supplier Since the formation of Panton McLeod in 1994, the Scottish Borders based company has earned a nationwide reputation as one of the UK’s leading experts in the UK water sector.

The water quality engineering firm has acquired a wealth of experience in cleaning, disinfecting, inspecting and repairing drinking water storage structures for some of the UK’s biggest water companies.

Along with this experience, Panton McLeod has developed a range of additional services that has given the firm of the opportunity to offer multiple solutions to the challenges faced by water companies including Severn Trent, United Utilities, Welsh Water & Scottish Water.

In addition to their Drain-down Cleaning Division, Panton McLeod is rapidly expanding their other divisions including Repair and Refurbishment of structures, Robotic Inspection and Cleaning, Pipeline services and Onsite Waste treatment.

This focused yet broad service range now fits with the increased client demand for more flexible solutions from a single supplier.

Jim W Panton Chief Executive Officer at Panton McLeod said: “At the moment the business is strong with us having gone through a period of sustained growth in the UK and landing our first partnership distribution deal in the U.S. which was a major breakthrough.”

“Our growth has given the company the opportunity to evolve the range of services

VR600 Robotic Cleaner

and improve our technology. The restructuring of our management team has led to internal improvements, and an upcoming move to larger headquarters will further enhance our capability.”.”

“These developments are allowing us to operate more efficiently, resulting in reduced costs, whilst also helping us to recognise and respond to customers’ needs more effectively and with an improved quality of service.”

Currently, Panton McLeod is carrying out framework programmes for Severn Trent and Scottish Water to clean and disinfect hundreds of water storage facilities each year across two of the largest regions in Britain, including remote tanks in Orkney & Shetland. These programmes utilise both wash down and chlorination methods and Panton McLeod’s proprietary DWI listed enhanced cleaning range known collectively as PM100 (Pantonite in the USA).

Dependant on the specific requirement of the client different cleaning agents from the PM100 range are used to act as a non-chlorine disinfectant, to remove Iron and Manganese

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bio fouling, or where required to remove decontamination as a result of bacteria, cryptosporidium, flooding or vandalism or even from diesel or oil spills.

Iain Weir Chief Operating Officer said: “Successful projects have included cleaning and disinfecting some of Scotland’s largest tanks, including one in Aberdeen the size of Aberdeen FC’s Pittodrie Stadium.

In recent years Panton McLeod has increased the use of their innovative robotic inspection and cleaning technology throughout the UK’s service reservoirs and towers whilst they remain online minimising disruption to customers.

The robotic division is a major part of Panton McLeod’s project work with a succession of impressive results highlighting the importance of the technology to the water industry. High profile projects for underwater inspections, cleaning and waste treatment across the UK include treating a whole network system over 6 months in South Wales for Welsh Water and programmes for Wessex Water, United Utilities, Severn Trent and Scottish Water.

Elsewhere across the country, Panton McLeod continues to carry out routine remedial repairs

PANTON McLEOD

Bonded Roof Membrane

directly for the Water Companies from the South coast to the North of Scotland as well as larger projects for Tier 1 partners on a monthly basis.

Iain adds: “Panton McLeod has successfully performed internal and external remedial repair works and asset condition surveys of varying sizes across the UK including reservoir refurbishment projects entailing replacing external tank membranes, internal crack and joint repairs and access ladder replacements.

“Our experts are often able to identify remedial repairs while cleaning tanks and then remain onsite to carry these out reactive works efficiently whilst the asset remains out of service, this quick turnaround then avoids additional cost and minimises disruption to service.”

As well as water retaining structures such as service reservoirs, Panton McLeod also provide pipeline services and maintenance including pressure testing, chlorination and disinfection, swabbing, flushing and independent data logging for major contractors including Black & Veatch, Morrison Construction & Mott McDonald Bentley.

Panton McLeod has also been at the forefront

PM100 Cleaning (Before)

of the innovative use of onsite Waste Treatment and Minimisation services. These services remove the risk and cost associated with uncontrolled discharge or offsite disposal of cleaning waste and includes controlled and monitored management of discharges using de-chlorination, settlement, pressurised filtration and turbidity monitoring.

In line with the company’s aim to be a key partner to the industry as a whole, a UK wide “always on call” 24-hour Emergency response and advice service is provided from both its Scottish Borders and Nottingham bases. This emergency response relates to all services to counter the effects of cryptosporidium, flooding, pollution, vandalism and terrorism and is available by simply calling the head office switchboard number of 01835 822835.

PM100 Cleaning (After)

Paul Henderson, Sales & Marketing Director comments “Panton McLeod has grown rapidly in recent years, increasing both our client base and scale of services provided, but with high retention of staff we have been able to do this whilst also retaining our expected high standards. This has allowed us to add the successful completion of many high profile jobs to our expanding portfolio.

We continue to invest in new specialist equipment and in the development of our experienced workforce and we feel this continuity is a key part of our success.”

For an integrated, experienced and innovative approach to Drinking Water Asset Management contact Panton McLeod today.

Tel: 01835 822835 info@pantonmcleod.co.uk www.pantonmcleod.co.uk

The company is committed to adapting their services with ambitious plans to expand and grow throughout both the UK and abroad and propel itself further in securing and strengthening their reputation as being the leading drinking water solutions company for those within the water industry.

instituteofwater.org.uk

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VAG VALVES

VAG AND SCOTTISH WATER IN CONTROL When Scottish Water decided to build a new water treatment works at Glencorse in Midlothian, as part of the Edinburgh Drinking Water Project, the aim was to facilitate the city’s continued expansion and improve the quality of drinking water in Edinburgh. It would also allow them to provide 21st century water treatment facilities, to meet strict European guidelines on drinking water quality.

Black & Veatch, the main Consultant/Contractor were looking for Flow Control (Needle) Valves to be used at the Talla, Glencorse, Meggit, Alnwickhhill & Fairmilehead Sites.

VAG quickly demonstrated their RIKO Plunger (Needle) Valves performance under the stated system conditions given by B&V using their sophisticated VAG USECad Sizing Software which provided B&V with all the data they required to give them piece of mind the correct valves had been chosen. This included Performance, Cavitation, Kv, Zeta & Noise Level Curves. Once B&V were satisfied with their selection, VAG got underway with production to meet the stringent delivery programme.

The control valves selected for this project (Scotland’s Largest Infrastructure Improvement Scheme) were: 1 x 300mm, 1 x 500mm, 3 x 600mm, 2 x 800mm & 1 x 1000mm VAG RIKO Plunger (Needle) Valve.

The VAG RIKO Plunger (Needle) Valve is not like any other Flow/Pressure Control Valve in the market, over the past years, VAG have used their 140 years’ experience to make some vital changes in the design including:

These changes result in the valve having long service life with high reliability, linear control characteristic through the valves travel, cavitation-free control & low actuating forces and torques. The valve is virtually maintenance free!

VAG were also asked by B&V to help them with an issue they had where they required 3 pcs 700mm Quick Closing Non Return Valves. Space was limited and B&V were looking for a valve which met with their requirements.

Once the valves had been delivered, VAG were faced with a possible issue as they were advised some of the system data had changed due to some leakage improvement work Scottish Water had carried out downstream of the valves. This resulted in the valves being over-sized and meant that all the information they had provided was now obsolete and the question was “will these valve be able to perform under the new conditions?”

VAG provided data on their SKR Slanted Seat NRV which is proving to be a massive success in the UK where a quick closing NRV is required. The SKR is a short bodied NRV for easy installation and restricted space environments, Slanted seat for quick closing which is Nickel Welded for prevention of corrosion between the body and seat. The valve can be fitted with an internal hydraulic damper to avoid slamming for certain installations and only requires a flow velocity of 1.5m/s to fully open the disc.

VAG quickly entered the new data into their sizing programme to see what it meant in terms of the valves performance etc. It was then realised that the cylinders in the valves would need to be changed in order to meet with the new system demands. The plus for Scottish Water was that with VAG’s flexible valve design, the existing valves could be utilised and just fitted with new cylinders. Thus saving hundreds of thousands of pounds by not having to replace the valves which was the initial fear of SW. VAG sent two of their Service Engineers (One from Germany and one from the UK) to carry out the task of replacing the cylinders, this work took three days and after commissioning the valves were performing exactly as the performance curves had stated.

VAG delivered all valves in December 2009 and Early 2010.

This is only two of many types of valves VAG have within their wide range from 25mm up to 4000mm. Visit www.vagvalvesuk.com to see other types of Valves, Penstocks and Associated Pipeline Products manufactured by VAG. The new version of VAG’s USECad is being launched at the IFAT exhibition in May. It Includes Sizing Programmes, Headloss Calculations, 2D & 3D Drawings, Product Animations and much more.

If you would like a copy and easy demonstration please email enquiry@vagvalvesuk.com or call 0141 848 1181.

n Single Piece Body n Welded Bronze Piston Rails on Body n Quad ‘O ’Ring Piston Seal for Drop Tight Closure n Slotted/Multiple Orifice Cylinder Options Available n Internals produced from Stainless Steel as standard

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2 Pcs 600mm VAG RIKO Plunger Valves at Glencorse WTW

Our favourites

The VAG EKN® Butterfly Valve. Half a century of

The VAG SKR Slanted Seat Tilting Disk Check

experience made it good and then even better.

Valve has incredibly fast closing times and prevents pressure surges.

The VAG RIKO® Plunger Valve accurately and

The VAG DUOJET® Air Valve is indispensable

reliably controls the pressure and volume of

for the regulation of pressure in supply

massive amounts of water.

pipelines.

control . shut off . ventilate . distribute Your VAG representative will gladly demonstrate how our four bestsellers work and of course help you find the right dimension for your application. And, if you‘re interested,

even explain how other satisfied customers use our valves. Ask your representative or visit our website at

www.vag-group.com · we move water

QUANTUM CONTROLS LTD

QUANTUM DELIVER ON THEIR’ IMMEDIATE RESPONSE TIME GUARANTEE’ FOR EMERGENCY HIRE OF VARIABLE SPEED DRIVES When sewage threatened to escape into the environment, Northumbrian Water acted quickly to reduce the pressure within sewerage pipes with the help of variable speed drives hired from Quantum Controls Northumbrian Water was having difficulties with the rising main, which pumps sewage from Brown’s Point, at Cullercoats, North Tyneside to Howdon Sewage Treatment Works at the mouth of the Tyne.

Daniel Fitzsimons

Some of the sewerage pipes were cracking due to excessive pressure.

Martin Elliot, Northumbrian Water’s Maintenance Manager for Tyneside, said: “The old pipes were corroded and powerful pressure surges equivalent to 28-35 metres head, caused by the sudden stopping and starting of pumps, was putting them under extra strain.

“We needed to find a solution to prevent any further sewage leaks.”

The capital investment improvement programme, which would see the pipes replaced, was several months away.

It could not be brought forward as the works involved temporarily closing the Tyneside Metro light rail system.

Northumbrian Water asked Quantum to help.

The ABB Drives Alliance Partner already supplied maintenance services for ABB drives used by the company.

Within a few days, working jointly with Northumbrian Water, Quantum installed two 250kW ABB drives at the pumping station.

Elliot says: “The drives allowed us to ramp the speeds of the pumps up and down, avoiding the hydraulic shock loads that we suspected to be the cause of the problems to the pipes.

“Installing the drives virtually eliminated the leaks.

“The drives gave us peace of mind.”

Available nationwide, the Quantum Controls’ hire drive service can provide a drive at whatever time of day or night a customer needs it.

Drives are preprogrammed to suit the customer’s application, so when they arrive on site they need only be connected to the supply to start working.

Same day delivery compares with a typical fourweek lead time for a purchased drive.

The hire stock comprises some 800 ABB drives, ranging from 3kW to 1.5MW. Quantum Controls can also offer soft starts and motors for hire, with large motors up to 3.5MW being available.

All hire stock is thoroughly inspected and tested on return before being offered for hire again.

To discuss any projects or possible savings and find out how we can assist, please feel free to contact as follows –

Daniel Fitzsimons T: 0330 9000 247 (24/7 pager system) M: 07970 884790 E: d.fitzsimons@quantum-controls.co.uk W: www.quantum-controls.co.uk

The drives which helped reduce the pressure within sewerage pipes.

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technology for network management and leakage control

Network Management Local Data Acquisition Data Acquisition via GPRS/SMS Managed Data Facility Flow monitoring Leakage Control Leak Detection Network Leak Location Trunk Main Leak Location Leak Listening

www.primayer.com +44 (0)2392 252228 sales@primayer.com

A quality of service that delivers great cost and carbon savings

The Hydra-Valve Advanced Valve and Pipeline Solutions Group [Hydra-Valve] may be a familiar name in the Utility world, but few people realise the extent of the group’s services.

Cost Saving

Current regulation is driving Utilities to seek lower Carbon emissions, Risk reduction often without the ability to invest in new plant, Improving customer satisfaction levels by maintaining supplies, all within the challenging financial constraints set by OFWAT and the wider economy.

An example of how you can do more with less is the innovative Power Valve – a fully functional valve that can be inserted into a pipe line of up to 48”, without interruption to the Water supply, to provide isolation or control point.

Traditional methods for completing a similar ‘isolation’ demands at least 5 major excavations, with associated plant, equipment, labour, permits and permissions, access approval, not forgetting the major disruptions to the environment and traffic, over at least 4-8 week period, costs reaching £50,000 per excavation.

The success of the Power Valve is that it needs only one excavation, and can be inserted within a week, with the Water ‘Always On’, delivering cost savings of £150,000.

These savings can be extended significantly when compared to conventional methods of working, achieving up to 92% savings.

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£160,000 £140,000 £120,000 Cost (£)

At Hydra-Valve we pride ourselves on our quality of service and ability to meet the needs of our customers. As the requirements of regulators and financial constraints become more stringent the continuous development of innovative techniques to meet these requirements is brought further into the forefront.

Hydra-Valve continues to develop such techniques which bring with them huge benefits.

Cost Comparison of eight tasks carried out for the largest UK Water Company between Hydra-Valve's Valve and Pipe Line Repair Methods and the Alternative, Conventional Methods of Valve and Pipe Line Replacement and/or Re-zoning

Actual cost to use Hydra-Valve

£100,000 £80,000

Total Cost using Conventional Methods

£60,000 £40,000 £20,000 0 1

2

3

5

4

6

7

8

Task

This figure is one Hydra-Valve’s CEO Steve Foster is very proud of: "…because this was provided to us by the largest water company in the UK, and is based on actual activities carried out by utilising our innovative techniques. The tasks, randomly selected, included work on varying types of valves, from the very large to very small and in all different applications. These were then compared to their traditional costs, showing a 92% cost saving."

The team at Hydra-Valve are all seasoned professionals, with specialist, selfsufficient and mobile teams that provide onsite support for all your valving, pipe line, hydraulic and surveying needs. This is certainly one of the factors that have seen success and rapid growth since the group was created in 2011.

HYDRA-VALVE Risk Reduction Each company assists the group with its own methods of reducing risk to network assets, personnel, customers, the environment and financially.

An example of this would be that a line stopping operation might be requested by a customer to allow for the repair or removal of an asset. Bypassing operations may be required to maintain supply requiring a large area to become part of a site. The surveying team would be able to survey this and propose that the asset is refurbished under pressure by Hydra-Valve without the need for a heavily intrusive operation.

Equally, an under pressure refurbishment operation may be taking place and as part of the risk assessment the Hydra-Valve personnel could request the support of Power Technology to provide line stopping service to ensure the safety of the operation whilst still maintaining supply. In addition to this it maybe that asset refurbishment may not be possible so Power Technology would be requested to insert new, fully functional valve into the system, under pressure, without affecting supply.

Emergency Response As often happens in the winter months, the stress on the asset networks of water and Gas companies often see pipe bursts and failures – all completely unpredictable as far as the utilities are concerned.

When a burst occurs, Hydra-Valve can mobilise a fully skilled team and attend site, and within less than 1hour of being on site, will have ‘sealed’ the burst, using the patented and WRAS approved Leak Stop technology.

Using the other skills in the group, the emergency action is converted into a permanent solution. Power Technology will manufacture a full pipe encapsulation and have it fitted to the pipe within 24 hours.

The benefits that this turnkey solution provides go well beyond maintaining Water and Gas supply to people like you and me. Increasingly, the utilities are also measured on cost, environmental impact, and the inevitable loss of reputation. A swift, permanent response and solution keeps all these to a minimum.

Carbon reduction and Protecting the Environment Due to our unique methods, when a company employs the services of the Hydra-Valve group they are making a statement that as well as using more cost effective techniques they are also using more environmentally friendly methods. Calculations using the EA’s own Carbon Calculator mean an average reduction of 0.3 tonnes of CO2 per single valve replacement.

Even on a small DN100 (4”) the reduction is 97%.

This fulfils the requirements of ISO 14001 for meeting the objectives of a company to reduce its carbon foot print.

All our processes and technologies aim to be completed with reduced impact on the environment when compared with conventional methods, thus achieving the following; n Zero excavations n No traffic disruption creating unnecessary vehicle emissions n Reduced or zero emissions through the reduced or eliminated requirement for motorised plant n Reduced scale and cost of projects n Reduced waste and no hazardous waste n The use of sustainable energy

Hydra Valve The Groups services and solutions can be applied with the pipe line live in most cases keeping the supply ‘Always On’, for Water, Oil, Energy and Gas: n Emergency response/ repair to pipe bursts and valve repair n Line Stopping, Bypassing, Hot tapping, tank taping and pipe encapsulation n Sophisticated leak detection and asset mapping n Network optimisation, improved flow dynamics n Chamber sealing and Live under pressure valve insertion n Actuation with emergency slam shut function to asset maintenance n Hydraulic systems including actuation and valves n Industrial fasteners and IT and Telemetry systems n In-house bespoke design capability using Solidworks and Cad n Full manufacturing capability with more than 100,000 sq ft of production space This is a strong portfolio of solutions, available as a single source supply, and currently includes the following group companies, all with established track records in their sector: n n n n

Hydra-Valve Advanced Valve and Pipeline Solutions Ltd Power Technology Services n Richards Valves Europe Merlin Precision Engineering n HV – Industrial Fasteners Business Essentials UK Ltd

For more information, please visit: www.hydra-valve.com Or call: 0844 358 3001

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When it comes to trunk mains cleaning, there are plenty of fish in the sea. But are they all swimming in the right direction?

At Fastflow, our innovative European patented system ensures that we are, because it

Quite simply, we aim to Go Further

� Cleans up to 1000m – requiring fewer excavations and pipe interventions � Needs only a single pass, using just a fraction of the water consumed by conventional spray cleaning methods � Is non abrasive – maintaining the integrity of internal linings � Achieves cleaning standards well within DWI values � Combines with our highly efficient, large diameter spray chlorination process, which can deliver further, dramatic time and water savings In addition � The system is tried and tested over 80 kilometres of 300mm – 1,245mm mains � Our end to end service includes design, planning, civils, cleaning and restoration All of which saves time and cost while reducing risk and environmental impact.

For further proof that this is no fishy tale, visit

www.fastflow.co.uk call us on +44 (0) 191 415 7744 or come and see us at

Stand D1 in hall 3A at IWEX 24th - 26th May

FASTFLOW

Water chief’s charity drive

Neil Armstrong with some of the people his company has helped, during his visit to Nepal.

Just four months after seeing how his company’s donation had changed the lives of thousands of the world’s poorest people, utility services boss Neil Armstrong has pledged a further £77,000 towards clean water initiatives in Nepal.

Shocked by the plight of the people and humbled by the warmth of the welcome they gave him when he visited in November, Fastflow’s Chief Executive immediately began to plan a second project.

The first was a £68,000 investment in Biratnagar, Nepal’s second largest city, where only 31% of the population has proper sanitation and 17% of wells show high levels of arsenic contamination. Approximately a third of all deaths are of children under five and half of these are attributed to diarrhoeal diseases.

The work involved the creation or rehabilitation of almost 400 wells, bringing safe water to 4,000 people. It also provided proper sanitation systems for 2,200 more and delivered educational initiatives designed to reduce disease and illness by maintaining basic hygiene.

GPS SHOWS HOW TO ON YOUTUBE

PE Pipe specialist, GPS PE Pipe Systems, has launched 14 informative ‘how to’ videos on a dedicated Youtube channel to help installers access information on best practice installation for its Protecta-Line barrier pipe range.

Available at www.youtube.com/gpspipes, the videos give installers both verbal instructions and a video demonstration of key elements in the installation process.

Designed for use as an introduction to the market-leading barrier pipe range or a quick refresher, the bite-sized clips can even be viewed on mobile devices at site.

Explains Oxana Latypova from GPS: “Protecta-Line is the most popular barrier pipe in the UK and is widely specified for water installations at contaminated or potentially contaminated sites, but, like any piping system, its integrity relies on a best practice approach to installation. We already provide technical guides to installers to ensure that they are familiar with the correct jointing procedures and by introducing these step-by-step ‘how to’ videos we are putting an additional resource at their disposal whenever and wherever they need it.”

The 14 videos cover all aspects of preparation and installation of Protecta-Line pipe by all jointing methods including electrofusion, butt-fusion, mechanical compression fittings and fluid compression fittings.

“The impact of this work has been profound,” said Neil: “There has been a huge reduction in illness and disease which we know will lead to important socio economic benefits.

True to his word, Neil has now committed to support further work through WaterAid, an international charity working to transform lives by improving access to safe water, hygiene and sanitation in some of the world's poorest communities.

Together with its partners it works with local communities in 26 countries in Africa, Asia and the Pacific region, delivering lasting solutions. It also seeks to influence policy at national and international levels.

This time a further 3,000 people will be given access to clean drinking water and 3,500 will benefit from proper sanitation systems – ending the practice of defecating in public places.

Rebecca Lloyd, Head of Private Giving at WaterAid, said: “We are thrilled that Neil Armstrong and Fastflow have chosen to support us in Nepal. We have been working in the country since 1986 and have improved access to safe water, sanitation and hygiene for over 800,000 people. But with three million still living without access to clean water, there is a great deal still to be done.”

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63

Need accurate Pipeline infrastructure advice?

Need Need accurate accurate Pipeline Pipeline infrastructure infrastructure advice? advice?

Need accurate Pipeline infrastructure advice?

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

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

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

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

Wouldn’t renewal/rehabilitate decisions basedtoonpipeline thousands of past cases?

Wouldn’t it it be be helpful helpful to to make remove customer related contact in regard investigation ?

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

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

Pipeline Services gives you both: Hydrosave gives you both: Pipeline Pipeline Services Services gives you gives both: you both: Pipeline Services gives you both:

• A range of non-intrusive, cost-effective measurement and assessment techniques: these allow you to see a •• complete AA• range of non-disruptive inspection techniques a cost effective structural and internal range Aof range non-intrusive, ofofnon-intrusive, cost-effective cost-effective measurement andand assessment and assessment techniques: techniques: these allow these you allow to see you asee to see picture the state of your mains, on measurement DVD! provide A•range of non-intrusive, cost-effective measurement assessment techniques: these allow you toassessment. a a complete complete picture picture of the state of state the ofstate your of mains, your on mains, DVD! on DVD! complete picture of the of your mains, on DVD! By using a combination methodsAssessment including NDT, Underover Pressure with access from excavation or hydrant.

•• The ‘Legion’ Predictive Pipeof Condition Tool: Using 30,000and pipeCCTV sample analyses, we provide • an The ‘Legion’ • ‘Legion’ The prediction ‘Legion’ Predictive Predictive Pipe Condition Pipe Condition Assessment Assessment Tool: Using Tool: over Using 30,000 over pipe 30,000 sample pipe sample analyses, analyses, we provide we provide • accurate The Predictive Pipe Condition Assessment Tool: Using over 30,000 pipe sample analyses, we provide for any given section of metal pipeline.

• Suited to feasibility studies either prior or post of rehabilitation, cleaning or swabbing. an accurate an accurate prediction prediction for any for given any section given section of metal ofpipeline. metal pipeline. an accurate prediction for any given section of metal pipeline.

We offer a complete range of services: We offer aacomplete range ofof services: WeWe offer We offer complete a complete range range services: of services: offer a complete range of services:

• Non-Destructive Inspection (NDT): • Under Pressure Rodding and Under Pressure Inspection •• Non-Destructive • Non-Destructive Inspection (NDT): (NDT): • Under •CCTV: Pressure Under Pressure Rodding Rodding andandand Using ultrasonics, pipes canInspection be scanned Crawler Ideal forRodding inspecting • Non-Destructive Inspection (NDT): ••Under Pressure Non Destructive Testing (NDT): By suspected using under pressure CCTV Using ultrasonics, Using pipes can pipes be scanned can be scanned Crawler Crawler CCTV: Ideal CCTV: forIdeal inspecting for inspecting to accurate internal linings ofIdeal deterioration +and other A provide pipeline canultrasonics, be scanned toand measure Using ultrasonics, pipes can be scanned Crawler CCTV: for inspecting inspection tools the internal conditions to provide to provide accurate accurate internal internal and and linings suspected linings suspected of deterioration of deterioration + + + external corrosion measurements. pinpointing connections, hidden or internal and external corrosion to provide accurate internalto and linings suspected of deterioration such as bore loss, lining type and external external corrosion measurements. measurements. buried pinpointing pinpointing connections, connections, hidden hidden or or or apparatus and leakages. provide acorrosion remaining life. external corrosion measurements. pinpointing connections, hidden condition can be assessed.

Sediment can buried apparatus buried apparatus and leakages. and leakages. buried apparatus and leakages. be inspected and a water profile analysis • Soil and Water Quality Analysis • Acoustic Condition Assessment Inspection • Under Pressure CCTV via Hydrant: can be undertaken. Also specialist To•complete our pipeline investigation • Acoustic Acoustic Condition Condition Assessment Assessment Inspection Inspection • Under •Pressure Under via CCTV Hydrant: via Hydrant: Excellent for use Pressure inCCTV a pre-design feasibility (ACA): With noCondition excavation necessary, we • Acoustic Assessment Inspection •investigations Under Pressure CCTV via Hydrant: such as locating apparatus services we provide comprehensive soil Excellent Excellent for use in forifause pre-design in a pre-design feasibility feasibility (ACA): With (ACA): noWith excavation no excavation necessary, we to determine a lining is can calculate pipe wallnecessary, thickness + awe westudy (ACA): With no excavation necessary, Excellent for use in a pre-design feasibility such as valves, blockages and connections. and water analysis services. tostudy determine to determine if a lining aislining cancan calculate can calculate pipepipe wall thickness wall thickness + a + a +present. astudy leakage assessment atpipe the same time! calculate wall thickness study to determine if a if lining is is leakage leakage assessment assessment at the same at same thetime! same time! present. present. leakage assessment at the time! present.

• Under Pressure Drilling Services • Pipe Sample Analysis Under Pressure drilling is a side product of In addition to our non disruptive services •we Under CCTV: This can Pipelineservice Services canan also our inspection with average of alsoPressure offer traditional destructive pipe In addition, •sample Under • Pressure Under Pressure CCTV: This CCTV: can This can In addition, In addition, Pipeline Pipeline Services Services can alsocan also pinpoint a whole range of internal pipe conduct Under Pressure Drilling and over 5000 drillings per year, ranging • Under Pressure CCTV: This can In addition, Pipeline Services can alsofrom analsyis. pinpoint pinpoint a whole arange whole ofrange internal of internal pipepipeSoil pipe conduct conduct Under Pressure Under Pressure Drilling Drilling andany and and Water Analysis. problems. distribution to trunk mains and pinpoint a whole range of internal conduct Under Pressure Drilling andsize SoilSoil andSoil Water and Analysis.

Water Analysis. problems. problems. coupon. problems. and Water Analysis.

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

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

So, don’t just try to divine the answer, let Hydrosave remove the guesswork.

Call today on 0121 521 2801 Email : pca@hydrosave.co.uk Call usus today on 0121 521 2807 Email: solutions@pipeline-services.co.uk CallCall usCall today us on today 0121 on521 0121 2807 521 Email: 2807 Email: solutions@pipeline-services.co.uk solutions@pipeline-services.co.uk us today on 0121 521 2807 Email: solutions@pipeline-services.co.uk Facsimile:Fax 0121 521 2811 Web: www.pipeline-services.co.uk : 0121 521 2826 Web: www.hydrosave.co.uk Facsimile: Facsimile: 0121 521 0121 2811 521 2811 Web: www.pipeline-services.co.uk Web: www.pipeline-services.co.uk Facsimile: 0121 521 2811 Web: www.pipeline-services.co.uk

PMP

Emergency Call out for PMP’s Rope Access Team

PMP were called by The William Tracey Group to an emergency at St Abbs, Scotland, where PMP’s Rope Access Team were to investigate and repair a leaking foul outfall system which had been spotted on a local outfall pipe, half way up a cliff face, making conventional access impossible.

Using a tested A-frame for rope access, the PMP technicians rigged their ropes and safely abseiled down the cliff, to the repair area. At the point of the leak the team discovered a manhole chamber which was overflowing. They removed the cover to find the downstream pipe was blocked but were able to remove the blockage and release the flow in a operation that lasted under 2 hours.

In house workshops allow PMP to undertake bespoke engineering projects, manufacturing components and fixtures. Decking, guards and railings are also fabricated and installed at water

treatment works and reservoirs, and ensure their skills are constantly refreshed and developed by investing in new methods. PMP also have specialist knowledge in confined space working and joint repair, and often devise tailor made solutions for more unusual projects.

For more information please contact PMP on 01706 836110 Email Info@pmp-ltd.co.uk www.pmp-ltd.co.uk

PMP has thorough expertise in confined space and rope access work together with a well earned reputation for fast response in emergency callouts and is always keen to develop skills and innovate.

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SAVE TIME. SAVE MONEY. BE SAFE UTILITY PIPE CUTTING PRODUCT BENEFITS IMPROVES OPERATOR SAFETY SINGLE SIDED ACCESS REDUCED EXCAVATION REDUCED LABOUR TIME REDUCES OPERATOR EFFORT NO FUMES WITH HYDRAULIC SAW

CUTS MULTIPLE MATERIALS DUCTILE IRON PIPE CAST IRON PIPE PVC PIPE HDPE PIPE INSITUFORM PIPE LINING ASBESTOS CONCRETE PIPE

PowerGrit Petrol Saw

PowerGrit Pipe Clamp

PowerGrit Hydraulic Saw

For Demonstrations or Enquiries contact: EC Hopkins Ltd

Tel: 0121 506 6095

Email: enquiries@echopkins-bham.co.uk

Available to Hire From Plant & Site Services Ltd

Contact Steve Taylor on 07825 176707

WWW.POWERGRIT.COM

HWM

TOUCH THE FUTURE WITH NEW MICROCORR TOUCH CORRELATOR FROM HWM The MicroCorr Touch from HWM is the world’s first standalone water leak noise correlator to feature a high visibility colour touchscreen, and it now features the unique Automated Filtering Intelligence System (AFIS) software to make accurate leak pinpointing quicker, easier and more accurate than ever.

Like most traditional correlators, the MicroCorr Touch provides default filter settings for a wide range of different pipe materials and sizes. However, due to the number of unknown variables that can change the frequency of leak noise, default filter settings can never be optimised for every leak situation.

Experienced users can manually change the filter settings to find the leak, but this is often a time consuming process involving multiple correlations.

Even then it can be ‘hit or miss’ to successfully locate the leak. With AFIS, the MicroCorr Touch effectively builds an expert user into the unit.

AFIS works by automatically applying multiple filter settings to determine the best possible correlation result every time. The system runs 55 different filter combinations on the correlation data, checking the quality of the result and optimising the filter settings as required, until the clearest and most accurate result can be presented. Working on live or pre-recorded data, tests have shown AFIS to significantly improve leak pinpointing on almost any pipe – effectively making manual filter setting a thing of the past.

In addition to this advanced software, HWM has incorporated the latest technological developments into the MicroCorr Touch’s hardware: best-in-class sensors, the VGA touchscreen, and an innovative carrying case that can charge the components from a mains or vehicle connection.

Specially developed by HWM for the new correlator, the new accelerometer

sensors offer unparalleled sensitivity in the marketplace. In a recent project in Shandong, China, the local water company had visibly identified a leak presence, but correlators from three different companies were unable to even detect a leak signal – let alone pinpoint where it was on the pipe. When the MicroCorr Touch was deployed it immediately identified the leak and then determined its position to within 0.1m, confirmed by ground microphone and subsequent excavation.

MicroCorr Touch has been designed from the ground up by experts in both the technology and its application in the field. The result is a correlator that combines cutting edge design and highly innovative functionality to deliver outstanding results with the minimum amount of effort required from the operator.

GA Valves are manufacturers and distributors of valves to the water & sewage industries.

Including gates, checks, air valves & miscellaneous valves.

UK distributors and Technical Support of Dorot Flowcontrol valves.

GA Valves Ltd Tel: 01484 711983 Fax: 01484 719848 www.gavalves.co.uk

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69

TALIS Road Show

Monday 10th June to 22nd June 2012 Talis UK will once again be embarking

beneficial not only to the design engineers

on a UK wide tour with the Talis

obile

but also to the non technical staff and

Exhibition Vehicle. During the 2 week tour

graduate’s who may not have had any

in une this year the vehicle will be visiting

previous opportunity to view at close hand

numerous Water Company’s and contractors

the different types of valve designs. This

across the length and breadth of the country

proven and popular concept of taking the

from Folkestone in the South to Durham in

exhibition to the customer is expected to

the North.

once again create a great deal of interest and a high turnout wherever it visits.

The fully self contained vehicle with a wide range of displayed cutaway valves and supporting video presentations provides

Keep an eye out for a Talis UK poster at your location.

an ideal opportunity for the visitor to obtain

For details of all venues to be visited during

a clear insight into valve design, function

the Talis UK Tour please contact:

and application. In the past it has proved

Peter Hurn on 01656 672 639 or email

TALIS UK Edison Road Hams Hall Distribution Park Coleshill, Birmingham B46 1AB United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0) 1675 437900 Fax: +44 (0) 1675 437909 Email: phurn@talis-group.com Web: www.talis-group.com

Our Products

With over ten strong brands and locations throughout Europe TALIS is one of the largest suppliers of valve technology and first choice when it comes to valves and services for the whole water cycle. Ten brands each with its own traditions including well known names such as Erhard, Atlantic Plastics , Belgicast and Bayard, form the backbone of the company group.

Boundary boxes

The Talis UK companies based in Birmingham, Atlantic

ATLANTIC PLASTICS has many years of experience in the design and manufacture of meter boxes for the UK and international water industry. This experience has enabled ATLANTIC PLASTICS to develop an advanced range of meter boxes designed around the needs of specifiers, installers and meter readers.

Plastics, Erhard Valves and Cast Iron Services (CIS) provide an extensive range of valves and products for the UK Water Industry including a variety of familar named mains and service pipe products including Atplas, Talbot, Ebco, UPE and Samuel Booth.

The company’s products stand for certified quality and many years of know-how. Applications encompass water transmission from the reservoir to the customer’s front door, as well as water supply and sewage disposal for customers in the industrial and public sectors. TALIS UK manufactures and supplies all types of valves, hydrants and fittings and offers a design and after sales service package.

As part of the TALIS Group, Atlantic Plastics and Erhard Valves are benefitting from the close relationship that comes from being part of a more centralised and customer focused organisation. The UK business now benefits from the continuing expansion of the range in addition to wide stock holding in the UK of group products.

Service fittings ATLANTIC PLASTICS offers a comprehensive range of valve and fittings for all types of mains and services pipes from 16mm to over 2m diameter. The products are well proven over many years of use and, where applicable, materials used comply with BS6920 for use with potable water.

for more product information please visit

talis-group.com

TALIS UK Edison Road Hams Hall Distribution Park Coleshill, Birmingham B46 1AB United Kingdom

Tel: +44 (0) 1675 437900 Fax: +44 (0) 1675 437909 Email: phurn@talis-group.com Web: www.talis-group.com

Valves ERHARD, BAYARD and BELGICAST are well-known specialists for butterfly valves, gate valves and control valves. They all supply a full range of equiptment designed to cover all requirements, from the production of fresh water and water supply to domestic metering units and waste water disposal.

Measurement Products ABB Measurement Products supplies a wide range of equipment and services to help efficiently measure, record and control any potable water or wastewater process.

To discover how to improve your utility’s performance and productivity, visit www.abb.co.uk/instrumentation

Manufacturers of Manufacturers of valves valvesand and fittings for water,water gas and fittings for the the water, water,waste gas, waste and fire fighting industries industriesworldwide. worldwide. fire fighting T : +44 (0) 1604 601188 F: +44 (0) 1604 604818

8 Rushmills Northampton NN4 7YB England, UK

ABB Ltd Howard Road, Eaton Socon, St Neots PE19 8EU Tel: 0870 600 6122 Email: moreinstrumentation@gb.abb.com Web: www.abb.co.uk/instrumentation

Power and productivity for a better world TM

www.avkuk.co.uk

,:2BDG B B [ PPBY LQGG

feralco FERALCO (UK) LTD

Ditton Road, Widnes, Cheshire, WA8 0PH, UK T: +44 (0) 151 802 2910 F: +44 (0) 151 802 2999 M: +44 (0) 7760 174973 barry.lilley@feralco.com www.feralco.com

Leaders in pump manufacture, installation, service and repair

Jon Nix Caprari Pumps UK Ltd Bakewell Road Peterborough PE2 6XU T: 01733 371605 F: 01733 371607 E: info.uk@caprari.com

Feralco (UK) Ltd was formed in January 2001 following the merger of the Laporte and Alcan water treatment chemical businesses.

Today it has manufacturing facilities in England (Widnes) and Scotland (R&J Garroway in Grangemouth).

Rapid growth has seen Feralco Group expand its manufacturing base to become a world leader in high performance aluminium chemicals, blends, dispersions and sols. Supply is backed by a first-class support service including application, handling and process optimisation expertise.

PO BOX 5, Birds Royd Lane, Brighouse, West Yorkshire HD6 3UD www.gavalves.co.uk

GA Valves are manufacturers and distributors of valves to the water & sewage industries. Including gates, checks, air valves & miscellaneous valves.

UK distributors and Technical Support of Dorot Flowcontrol valves.

Paul Coleman ACII Kingsbridge Risk Solutions Limited Kingsbridge House, Wargrave Road Twyford, Berkshire RG10 9NY Email: paul.coleman@kibl.co.uk Telephone: 0118 960 2400 Fax: 0118 934 9764 Mobile: 07917 386207 Web: www.kibl.co.uk

Kingsbridge are commercial insurance brokers and we supply insurance and risk management advice for all businesses and professionals involved with water, waste water treatment and environmental risks.

www.zeoclere.com 24 Hour delivery on ABB Watermasters, Aquamasters, Aquaprobes & all spare parts

natural ammonia removal

www.mercomwp.co.uk

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T: 07766 491143 E: sales@mercomwp.co.uk

Telephone: 01825 790524

2 Golden Valley, Brimscombe, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 2RX

sales@mineralsi.com

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BUSINESSCARDDIRECTORY From Beginning to End And Everything in Between…

As the global wet infrastructure leader, our vast knowledge, world-renowned expertise and comprehensive engineering, management and technical services are solving our clients’ most difficult water-related challenges. From inception to completion, and everything in between, MWH. For further information please email: mwhuk.info@mwhglobal.com

www.mwhglobal.com BUSINESS CONSULTANCY

· PROGRAMME & PROJECT SERVICES · ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING · CONSTRUCTION

Telford House, 105 Dalton Avenue, Birchwood Park Warrington, Cheshire WA3 6YF T: 08707 558 811 F: 01925 847 976 W: rpsgroup.com

RPS is an international consultancy providing advice upon: the management of the environment the exploration and production of energy and other natural resources the health and safety of people the development of land, property and infrastructure We trade in the UK, Ireland, the Netherlands, the United States, Canada, Brazil, Africa, the Middle East, Australia and Asia

ATA’s Utilities, Infrastructure and Civils teams are specialists in sourcing white collar technical and engineering staff to the UK’s water infrastructure.

Contact: Phil Crew 01332 861 322 info@ata-recruitment.co.uk

Making the difference in chemical dosing

To find out more contact our office: 01355-246235 Mary Martin mary.martin@mccraetraining.co.uk www.mccraetraining.co.uk SQA approved training centre offering a range of training services:

sera Dosing UK Ltd. Tel: +44 1733 396040 Fax: +44 1733 396050 sales@seradosing.co.uk www.sera-web.co.uk

Water Industry SVQs (Level 2 & 3) SW DOMS National Water Hygiene Utility SHEA (Water & Waste Management) Asbestos Awareness Manual Handling Career Coaching First Aid Training

Tel: 01472 889256 Email: rsc@yara.com Web: www.yara.co.uk

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From Beginning to End And Everything in Between…

As the global wet infrastructure leader, our vast knowledge, world-renowned expertise and comprehensive engineering, management and technical services are solving our clients’ most difficult water-related challenges. From inception to completion, and everything in between, MWH. For further information please email: mwhuk.info@mwhglobal.com

www.mwhglobal.com BUSINESS CONSULTANCY

· PROGRAMME & PROJECT SERVICES · ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING · CONSTRUCTION

NORTHERNAREANEWS

How have Northumbrian Water Limited achieved a step change?

By Simon Cyhanko On 1 March Northumbrian Water Limited (NWL) hosted an evening seminar at their Durham offices. After a popular buffet, Simon Cyhanko introduced past Area President Henry Wilson who talked about the Institute and the benefits of membership. Next up was Richard Seales, Distribution Operations and Maintenance Manager at NWL. Richard began by highlighting how going back 3 years NWL had a real need to improve their interruptions performance. This was for several reasons including improving customer service; maintaining stable serviceability; and avoiding the threat of financial penalties including up to 50% of NWL’s capital maintenance budget.

As a result NWL developed an action plan focussed upon gaining immediate improvements. This included incorporating best practise from elsewhere in the industry such as moving from 10 to 5 metres as a measure of restoring supplies at the boundary. Similarly there was a large scale training and education programme whereby Distribution operatives undertook hydraulics training.

A departmental restructure brought those who operate and maintain the network back under area managers. The profile of interruptions performance was further increased by learning from near misses and failures of the 6 hour standard in order to generate continuous improvement.

Significant efforts were made to improve the response to interruptions in the field. For example, dedicated kit was made available to restore supplies at strategic locations and processes were introduced to dispatch maintenance teams together with technicians. Operational team leaders have been empowered to deploy riders and install valves and hydrants as necessary in order to restore supplies quicker than was previously the case.

Outside of the operational teams significant efforts have been made by other teams including Network Control. For example, the control team now takes greater accountability for system based alarms and manages these through their life cycle. Similarly the team have more visibility of alarms which have been reduced from 4000 to 350 per day.

The net effect of all these changes has been a significant improvement in

Simon Cyhanko (left) and Richard Seales performance with NWL becoming the industry leader in this field by March 2011. Performance has been further improved in 2011-12 with the number of interruptions greater than 6 hours currently at 20% of 2010-11 levels.

Moving forward NWL is not sitting still. Current efforts are focussed upon outage management plans for high risk mains, DMA links to allow flexibility of supply and the installation of DMA alarms. The team is now looking at ways of meeting the new 3 hour OFWAT measure and move from a focus on unplanned to planned interruptions.

Overall the seminar was a success with guests leaving with many new ideas on how to improve their own interruptions performance. Thanks to Richard Seales, Henry Wilson and the Facilities and Events teams at NWL for making the evening happen….and not forgetting Kath Ayres for the vote of thanks.

MORRISON UTILITY SERVICES WIN NORTHERN AREA INNOVATION AWARD Morrison Utility Services won the first Northern Area Innovation Award. A panel of judges selected the ‘water siren’ as the regional winner to go forward to the National Innovation Award 2012.

This innovative technology offers a step change in the way distribution pipes can be accurately traced, reducing costs, excavations and delivering enhanced levels of customer service and confidence.

The introduction of the lead replacement

programme in 2010 highlighted the need to accurately trace the position of hundreds of thousands of ferrule connection points on distribution water mains. The Water Siren has been developed to trace the position of buried water pipes, of all diameters and all material types (especially plastic).

Speaking about the Award, Richard Warneford, President of Northern Area and Distribution Manager, Northumbrian Water said: “The Water Siren is unique in that it does not rely on the material of the pipe wall to transmit a signal.

The signal does not propagate into any other adjacent utility and therefore eliminates any confusion.

“The device can be connected to domestic garden taps or similar fittings on a stand pipe, therefore completely eliminating the requirement for excavation. Also, since the signal requires the flow of pressurised water in the pipe to enable it to be traced, there are no customer supply interruptions, or disruption inside the customer property.”

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Innovations Showcase Success

Photos – Nick Skinner

This 'Dragon's Den' style event, held jointly with CIWEM continues to grow in popularity.

This year it was hosted by Tony Wray (Chief Executive, Severn Trent Water).

By Sarah Williams After an exhibition enabling 10 shortlisted companies the opportunity to promote their product and its benefits, the finalists had just 5 minutes each to persuade the audience that theirs was the most innovative product. The winners of the 3 categories were decided at the end of the evening by an audience vote. Notable about this year’s finalists, was the wide range of backgrounds from which they came – from individuals pitching an idea they came up with at home, through small companies, to teams in large companies like Severn Trent Water.

The best ‘customer’ innovation was awarded to Nigel O’Driscoll for his FlushRain invention. On average 30% of water pumped into a home is flushed down the toilet; FlushRain was conceived as an alternative. In using this retrofit rainwater harvesting system, users feel “green” and their

consumption of drinking water is reduced. The device could help water companies achieve their efficiency targets.

Severn Trent Water’s Process Design Group won the best ‘value’ innovation. Severn Trent Water’s challenge in AMP5 is to provide solutions that meet regulatory obligations, but are also affordable to operate and best value to customers. STW Process Design Group’s innovations have saved over £50m from the AMP5 capital investment programme. Solutions include savings of up to £14m through innovative use of the Liquid Treatment Plant at Minworth; up to £15m through Struvite recovery at Stoke Bardolph and £12m through hi-rate EBPR at Clay Mills.

The best ‘overall’ innovation went to Haigh Engineering for their Storm Update. They have provided an innovative solution to problems caused by flushing tough floor wipes, makeup

ANNUAL DINNER & DANCE

wipes and other similar products. Improved communication is essential to educate customers in the long term, but Haigh’s Storm add-on has been conceived as an immediate solution to this issue. It is low cost and in many instances eliminates costly maintenance calls, as well as increasing the solids load capacity of the units by more than 200%.

The 3 top ranking presentations from the audience vote were shortlisted for the National Innovation Awards.

What I took away from this evening was a feeling that the current challenging economic climate has not eroded the industry’s desire to find new, innovative ways to manage our business; in fact it has driven a desire to find more efficient approaches to achieve improved outputs.

By Sarah Williams

Members and their guests joined the Midlands Area committee in March at our Annual Dinner & Dance. This was held at the attractive Stratford Manor Hotel in the Heart of Warwickshire.

Over 80 guests attended, from a range of local companies. Following the handover of the Chain of office from outgoing president Frank Daly (PN Daly) to incoming President Colin Wayper (South Staffs Water), and an address from each, we were treated to some presentations. Formal thanks were given to members of the committee who have stepped down this year. In addition,

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Nick Shanks, former President and Committee member for ‘many’ years was presented a tankard to recognise his commitment to the Institute. Finally, Jason Ryall, local area Sponsorship Coordinator and former Area Representative was asked by Martin Kane to step up. Most Midlands Area members and any National Conference attendees will know Jason.

His strong sense of self-confidence, endless enthusiasm, commitment to the industry and the fact he shouts of ‘och aye the noo’ whenever within earshot of any members of our Scottish contingent make him stand out. We’re sad to announce that he’s leaving the Institute of Water, but pleased to share with you his plans to depart on a worldwide tour with a view to

MIDLANDSAREANEWS 1

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Jaguar Site Visit A large group of members met at the Jaguar Land Rover Castle Vale Site in Birmingham to learn more about the company, its brand and manufacturing process. This plant is Jaguar's main production facility, with the Jaguar XF, Jaguar XJ, Daimler Super Eight and Jaguar XK being produced there.

After the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the latest models, leaving a great number of people with a severe case of car envy, the visit commenced with a film about the company history, product range and brand.

The group then participated in a factory tour; it was fascinating to see the process of making a prestige Jaguar XJ, from a number of individual components through to the finished vehicle. We saw all the latest technologies, including robotics and lean manufacturing and experienced first hand the quality and care that goes into building each Jaguar.

The guides shared information about Jaguar’s approach to Visual Management, including special areas where each team meets on a daily

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Gill Wood behind the wheel

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Frank Daly making sales enquiries

By Sarah Williams

basis to review performance, work together to resolve any problems and look ahead to the day’s required activities. This approach was of interest to a number of the participants as it shares many of the tools and techniques used in Severn Trent Water’s ‘Safer Better Faster’ way of working.

So what did we learn about Jaguar during the trip? n Prior to Jaguar taking over the plant, it was used in World War II for the production of Spitfire fighter planes which were then flown and tested at the nearby Castle Bromwich Aerodrome. n Jaguar was originally founded as the Swallow Sidecar Company, but it changed to Jaguar after the 2nd World War due to the connotations of the initials SS.

can accelerate the car from 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 4.7 seconds. n There is a massive overseas demand for the vehicles – 80% of Jaguar cars produced are left hand drive. n Much of the production process is automated, using huge robotic arms to deliver precise results every time, which could not be achieved by a human. n The employees remain stationary and the cars and their component parts move around the factory on conveyor belts, many of which run overhead. n Due to the prestige brand image, every car goes through an intensive quality review before it is released.

n The 5-litre V8 engine in the XJ Supersport

This site visit provided an extremely interesting view into the car manufacturing industry, and for those who couldn’t afford to place an order for a new model, the tour finished with an opportunity to visit the gift shop to purchase a Jaguar branded key ring or T-Shirt!

Top row left to right: Mandhy Senwiratne, Nick Shanks, Peter Dignan. Bottom row left to right: Martin Kane, Jason Ryall and Sheila Kane

Frank Daly (PN Daly) left, hands over to incoming President Colin Wayper (South Staffs Water) right

n Each car is made to order. n The XJ Model comes in 15 different colours; the polar white is currently very popular!

settling in whichever place he likes best! Jason was presented with some gifts for his travels, including a solar powered battery charger and a hammock for lazy nights behind a tropical beach!

Following the presentations, everyone enjoyed a 3 course meal and danced the night away to the live music of the “Midnite Function Band”. With thanks to the generosity of those in attendance, we raised £820 for Leukemia Research. Thanks to all those who donated raffle prizes for the evening.

It was good to see a lot of regular faces who now include this as part of their annual event calendar.

We hope to see you all, along with some more new faces, next year!

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Strictly the Best!

There could not have been a more fitting occasion than Strictly the President’s Dinner to present the first Strictly Innovation Awards.

The innovations that made the 2012 shortlist were: n John Whitelaw, Scottish Water - Small Value Chemical Transfer n ID Systems - De-Ragger II n Karis Technical Services Ltd/MCS Control Systems Ltd - Integrated Pump Management System n Scottish Water Solutions - Chlorine Gas Replacement Programme n Mouchel - Dalmuir Integrated Urban Drainage Study

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By Sharna Richings A bellowing drum roll led to the announcement that the winner was…..ID Systems for the DeRagger II. In the Judges’ opinion the innovation was based on good collaboration between Scottish Water and the Supply Chain, a simple but elegant solution that has industry wide application. George Welsh was invited up to the stage to collect the trophy. In addition, they will receive £1000 in prize money thanks to Veolia Water for sponsoring the awards and will now go on to represent the Scottish Branch at the National Innovation Awards.

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A second award was also presented to John Whitelaw (Scottish Water) for the small value chemical transfer solutions. This ‘Judges Award’ recognises smaller scale innovations which are just as great or innovative but don’t result in the big ticket solutions or products. The judges commended John for his approach and initiative to overcome a very specific problem in a very innovative way. On receiving his award, John stressed that many people contributed to the development of the entire system and it would not have been possible without their hard work.

Now that the first awards have been a success, it is hoped this will be established as a regular annual event, providing a platform for individuals and teams that are leading the way in innovation in Scotland to be recognised.

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L-R George Ponton (Scottish Water), Iain Doherty, George Welsh (ID Systems), Nigel Earnshaw (Veolia Water)

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SP Pump

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SP Pump being operated

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De-ragger II system

SCOTTISHAREANEWS

SCOTTISH AREA 57th AGM The 57th Scottish Area AGM took place on Saturday 17 March in the Hilton Grosvenor Hotel in Glasgow.

Prior to the AGM an informal drinks reception was held at the Hotel which would later be the venue for the President’s Dinner. Given that some of the attendees were ‘dressed for dinner’; it must surely have been the most glamorous AGM ever.

Outgoing Area Chair, Scott McCrae presented his report of Area Committee activities, summarising a successful programme of events throughout 2011, with record breaking attendance at the Scottish Autumn Seminar and a solid increase in area membership including over 50 new student members following the enrolment of Scottish Water’s entire Modern Apprentice programme. Scott noted thanks to various committee members and thanked outgoing Treasurer Niall Darrant for his “sterling efforts”. Niall has now moved to the South East Area with the very best wishes from the Scottish Area Committee.

Kathy Auld provided the National Council Report, taking the opportunity to reinforce the message locally that we are a National Institute and Partnership across all the Areas. The Area Committee wishes Kathy every success as she takes on the position of National Chair this year.

Without too much confusion, Paul Sexton (retiring Area President) installed Paul Maxwell as Area President. Paul Sexton was subsequently installed as Area

By Richard Anderson Chair by retiring Area Chair, Scott McCrae. Paul Maxwell thanked Paul Sexton very much for his efforts and for his commitment to the Area Committee in moving to the Area Chair role. Paul Maxwell looked forward to the excellent continuity this would provide.

Turning to the vote of thanks to retiring Area Chair (Scott McCrae), Paul Maxwell noted Scott’s incredible service to the Institute, having joined the committee in 1993. Paul noted some of the great activities arranged by Scott and his impressive single handed effort over the years on behalf of our members.

In his Presidential Address, Paul discussed some of the membership challenges and financial challenges ahead for the Institute. Looking to the Programme of Events for the year ahead, Paul is promoting a huge increase in the Lunch and Learn programme which was successfully introduced last year. This year, Paul will be taking these events to many different regions in Scotland, attending most personally wherever possible. Looking for new attendees and hopefully new members along the way, Paul reaffirmed the well known phrase, “there is no such thing as a free lunch”. Paul is already looking ahead to what promises to be a showcase for the future at the next Autumn Seminar.

In closing and providing a comprehensive vote of thanks, Paul Sexton (are you keeping up?) confirmed that the Scottish area has had a very good year, and …. (anyone remember the old Remington commercials?)….. he’s enjoyed it so much, he’s staying!

Strictly the President’s Dinner

By Kathy Auld

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The Scottish Area President’s Dinner was held after the AGM. Having successfully enticed 212 people to attend with promises of dancing, drink and merriment the outgoing President, Paul Sexton, ensured this promise was delivered. Incorporating the first Scottish Area Water Innovations Awards – Strictly Innovation, sponsored by Veolia Water, the dinner was a huge success. The evening was sponsored by AECOM, Clancy Docwra, ClydeUnion Pumps, an SPX Brand and ID Systems UK Ltd. After a drinks reception guests were ushered to tables named after Scots Innovators throughout history (including Marmalade, Bovril and the first flushing toilet!). The meal was excellent and after dinner Paul gave a short speech. He reviewed the past year and thanked the committee for their support; the sponsors for the evening and donators of raffle prizes. He particularly thanked the organising team of Kathy, Nicola and Sharna with flowers.

Nigel Earnshaw (Veolia Water) and George Ponton (Scottish Water) were introduced as 2/3’s of the judging panel for the Innovations Award, the missing judge being Michael Martin (Scottish Water Solutions). Nigel and George ran through the short listed 5 from the original 13 entries and announced the winner to be ID Systems UK Ltd with their innovation of the Deragger. There was a second Award of a good innovative idea on a smaller scale, that impressed the judges. This was won by John Whitelaw of Scottish Water.

1 Once the awards were over Paul introduced the incoming President, Paul Maxwell (Scottish Water). The new Paul gave a short speech, stating how much he was looking forward to the next year in this fantastic role.

The formalities over, the band, Callanish, rocked the night with some funky ceilidh sounds and general tunes that filled the floor all night. At half time the raffle was drawn, with thanks to all those who donated prizes, raising a fantastic £1305. £400 was bid by James McLaughlin from Clancy

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John Whitelaw (centre) with Judges George Ponton (left) and Nigel Earnshaw (right)

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From left: Paul Maxwell, Kathy Auld and Paul Sexton

Docwra for a golf day for four at the prestigious Earl of Mar course, donated by WGM. This made a record amount to be donated to WaterAid from the Scottish Area, many thanks to those who purchased tickets and to Nicci for her superb selling of tickets.

A great night was had by all as we left exhausted, and a few slightly unsteady. Paul would like to thank all those involved in making the night a success with special mention to Callanish and the staff at the Hilton, Grosvenor.

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ENGINEERING PROCUREMENT

51st AGM

By George Irvine

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By George Irvine

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On Wednesday 18 January over 50 members gathered at Belfast Castle to hear a presentation from Bill Gowdy on Engineering Procurement.

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Bill began by giving a review of the Current Capital procurement position. The capital works programme has had an annual spend of £240M up to now and PC10 has an annual spend of £100M. Existing contracts over the past 8 years were mainly one off tenders and 6 asset based design and build contract frameworks. Some of these contracts have run out.

Delivery contracts for the future did include an Alliance based contract but this has been ruled out by the board. In the meantime we will maintain options for one off tenders for construction contracts.

From the presentation we learned the following key facts:

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AGM Attendees

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Retired members: From left to right: Charlie Davidson, Bertie McShane, Shaun Harten and Ken Carson

n NI Water Capital Programme would have solutions that are Capex and Opex efficient. n NI Water staff would work closely with other Partners and harness innovation. n Key principles of the scheme would include a Programme Management Office and long term contracts with extensions subject to contract performance. n Projects would range from £50k - £5m with the odd one over £5m. n Work packages would be bulked into sub programmes and there would be an integrated supply chain. Project teams will select, develop and monitor.

Bill went on to outline the programme timetable between now and June 2012.

A very lively question and answer session followed with the consulting and contractor sections of the audience before George Butler (NI Area President) summed up the event and thanked Bill for his very interesting presentation.

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From left: George Butler (Area President) with sponsors Ciaran Timoney (CCS), Terry McCrum (Meridian / Morrows), Anne Macentee (CCS), Jim Erskine (CCP Gransden)

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Lilian Parkes, Keith Hunt, Anne Macentee and Terry McCrum at the Titanic exhibition.

The 51st Annual General Meeting of the Northern Ireland Area took place in the magnificent setting of the Manor House at the Folk Museum, Cultra, Belfast on Wednesday 28 March.

Over 30 members attended, and following a buffet lunch were welcomed by Chairman Dermot Devaney. Dermot reported on some great events over the past year, with the highlight being the Area Conference in May which was the biggest ever and looked at the lessons learned from the freeze / thaw of Christmas 2010. The Autumn Seminar in October which was held in Derry was well supported.

next year and will be handing over to the very capable Lilian Parks at next year’s AGM. Carmel Bradley presented the treasurers report which showed a surplus of over £6,000. This was only made possible thanks to the generosity of our sponsors and she thanked them for this and hopefully their continued support.

This year the committee had introduced four sub-committees to deal with Area business, and Dermot particularly thanked Keith Hunt for all of his hard work in successfully organising the Area’s first innovation award.

The election of officers took place as follows George Butler (President), Dermot Devaney (Chair), Keith Hunt (Vice-Chair), George Irvine (Secretary), Lilian Parkes (Assistant Secretary), Carmel Bradley (Treasurer), Committee members: Stephen Smyth, Anne Macentee, Celine Rodgers, Sean Lyons and Karen Topping.

Dermott concluded by thanking Area President George Butler for his sterling work; the committee, Carmel Bradley (Treasurer) and George Irvine (Secretary). George has announced his retirement

At the close of the AGM members were able to visit the museum with the special attraction the Titanic exhibition in the Transport section of the Museum.

NORTHERNIRELANDAREANEWS

The NI Water 2010 Water Resource Management Plan

By George Irvine

On Wednesday 8 February we held a joint event with CIWEM in Malone House, Belfast and over 70 members from both organisations attended. Alan Crilly (NI Water) and Ben Piper (Atkins) gave a presentation on the Water Resource Management Plan (WRMP) 2012.

Alan introduced the subject by stating that the WRMP 2012 intends to meet the drinking water demands to the year 2035 and has taken into account expected demands and climate change. Alan provided the following key facts:

A trunk mains model was constructed and this will be used for a variety of other functions.

n There are legal requirements to consult with consumers and stakeholders.

The draft WRMP will require consultation and responses received will be considered before the final WRMP is produced.

n The WRMP will follow DRD guidelines and best industry practice.

Alan Crilly then came back to summarise what the plan showed us so far:-

n Most of the Water Treatment Works have been substantially upgraded since 2000 and trunk mains provided which has led to water quality being steadily improved as is security of supply. Active leakage reduction has also been a major factor.

(1) NI Water is fairly well balanced in supply and demand at Water Resource Zone level.

n The WRMP shows how NI Water intends to maintain the balance between supply and demand over the next 25 years and takes into consideration costs and benefits of options. It will be reviewed each year and revised every 5 years.

(3) Targeting leakage continues to be a cost effective solution.

Ben then looked at the details of the NI WRMP 2012. The building blocks included demand forecasts, supplies available, uncertainties, deficits, options appraisal and development of least cost plan.

A very lively question and answer session followed after which George Butler (NI Area President) thanked both speakers for their excellent presentations and also the audience for such a good turnout.

(2) Significant progress achieved over the past 10 years.

(4) Plan is a no regrets approach.

The final WRMP should be with DRD by end March 2012 for publication.

RIVERS AGENCY WINS THE NORTHERN IRELAND AREA INNOVATION AWARD 2012 Rivers Agency has won the first Northern Ireland Area Innovation Award for the improved service it now offers stakeholders and the public through its updated Strategic Flood Map. A panel of judges selected the ‘Strategic Flood Map’ as the regional winner to go forward to the National Award. The Strategic Flood Map provides information on past and future flood risk from rivers and the sea and is the first publically available map in the UK or Ireland which includes the risk from surface water flooding Speaking about the award David Porter, the Director of Development from Rivers Agency said: “I was delighted that Rivers Agency had won the Institute of Water award as it is industry recognition of the efforts of the staff involved in the development of our mapping products.

We understand that flooding can cause major damage and disruption and we go to great lengths to provide good quality, easily understood flood risk information to the public. The Strategic Flood Map is therefore an essential tool as it enables everyone to understand the risk they face, enabling informed decisions which will reduce the impact of flooding on people, property and the natural environment.”

Dermott Devaney, the Northern Ireland Area Chair said: “This innovation won the regional award as it encourages a more proactive response to flooding. With the map now widely available, property owners, businesses and local service providers all have easy access to information that informs about past and future risk in their own areas, so that they are better prepared and can plan accordingly.”

Publication of the Surface Water Map raises the profile of this source of flooding and given the prediction for climate change this will become increasingly important in the future. Northern Ireland is now the only region within UK and Ireland to publically publish Surface Water Maps.

The innovation is clearly welcomed by the citizens and organisations from Northern Ireland.

Dermott continued: “This Award offers a much needed spotlight for the many innovative individuals and organisations out there willing to demonstrate their commitment to excellence, and is just part of the program which the Institute of Water is delivering to promote the right cultural environment and encourage pride in the water sector.”

“I was delighted that Rivers Agency had won the Institute of Water award as it is industry recognition of the efforts of the staff involved in the development of our mapping products."

David Porter, the Director of Development from Rivers Agency

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DIVERTING WASTE FROM LANDFILL SCOOPS WESSEX WATER THE SOUTH WEST AREA INNOVATION AWARD A unique aerobic system that treats and diverts 10,000 tonnes of waste per year from landfill has won Wessex Water the Institute of Water’s first South West Area Innovation Award. A panel of judges selected the ‘CompAer’ process as the regional winner to go forward to the National Innovation Award.

From left: Area Chair Simon Harris, Boyd Goode (Wessex Water) and Area President Phill Mills

Wessex Water takes away and treats 475 million litres of sewage from 2.7 million customers every day. As part of this treatment process, it screens out from the sewage all material that is detrimental to the treatment system. This amounts to some 10,000t per year of grit, sand, rags, plastics and other items such as nappies, which, due to the nature of the material, have historically had to be disposed of to landfill. Keen to find an acceptable and more sustainable alternative, Wessex Water’s waste to energy company GENeco, developed a different treatment method to treat the waste, known as grit and screenings.

The treatment method developed, which is called the ’CompAer’ aerobic process, treats 10,000t per year of waste previously sent to landfill.

Speaking about the Award, Frank Van Der Kleij, South West Area Chair said: “This CompAer’ process is unique and combines a number of techniques to ensure 100% of the material is diverted from landfill – there is no other process that does this. As well as diverting 10,000t grit and screenings from landfill per annum there are huge cost savings and Wessex Water is able to reduce its carbon footprint. These benefits are all replicable nationally.”

By Karen Wright Fifteen high quality entries from the South West Area were received and a judging panel, consisting of committee members, assessed the entries against criteria including the stage of development; differentiation and benefits.

Sean Hill, recycling manager at GENeco, said its recycling technique had never been used before in the water industry. He said: “Through use of our CompAer process, which encourages a natural breakdown of the waste, we are able to use the leftover material for land reclamation projects and the remainder is combusted to generate renewable energy. We are delighted to win the Award which recognises the hard work put in by staff to find a solution to what is a national problem.”

Two entries stood out with the maximum scores with two others following closely behind: n Wessex Water/ GENeco with The CompAer process: Achieving Zero Waste n South West Water with “Beach Live” – a novel website providing live bathing water information n Agbar Environment with Ice Pigging – a quick efficient method for cleaning pipes n South West Water with Supply Interruption Mitigation using the Pump Enable Tanker, a specially designed mobile unit to deliver pressurised water to properties during mains work requiring mains isolation.

The CompAer process was eventually chosen due to the potential large scale applicability of the technology and therefore the wider social and environmental benefits.

The winning entry As part of its sustainability vision Wessex Water aim to avoid the generation of waste and, where produced, to manage it effectively and responsibly through reuse and recycling activities. It has also set the ambitious goal of zero waste to landfill by 2020 as part of a longterm strategic vision.

From left: Area Chair Simon Harris, Boyd Goode (Wessex Water) and Area President Phill Mills

“This CompAer’ process is unique and combines a number of techniques to ensure 100% of the material is diverted from landfill – there is no other process that does this."

Frank Van Der Kleij, South West Area Chair

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SOUTHWESTAREANEWS

The Water White Paper “Water for Life”

By Phill Mills

The Water White Paper “Water for Life” is obviously key for the water sector. Certainly the 70 people from companies, regulators and the supply chain thought so when they sat down at the joint CIWEM event on this paper at South West Water’s office in Exeter this March.

Phill Mills (Area President) gave a broad introduction and overview of the key issues, covering the background and rationale for a White Paper, what it covers, where it’s heading us, some provisos from the sector and finally the process from here on.

There has obviously been a number of recent, and not so recent, reports or reviews carried out in the water sector that have led in to the White Paper.

The first of these, Phill noted, was probably the Cave Review of Competition and Innovation in water Markets, which came out in April 2012 – so 3 years ago now.

Phill outlined the challenges the White Paper aims to tackle, i.e. climate change and population growth, reduced water availability, reducing damage to the environment, from overabstraction and pollution - all whilst supporting economic growth. He outlined where Defra’s vision is heading us – to more sustainable approaches; to abstraction licensing reform and trading; to putting customers at the heart of decision making, to encouraging us all to use water efficiently, to tackling affordability issues; and finally also to market reform.

change on water availability will be significantly influenced by changes in our behaviour. Looking a little closer, he touched on the 2015 Water Resource Management Plan exercise. For this, water companies will be asked to model their vulnerability to climate change. For low to medium vulnerable water supply zones this would mean 11 scenarios to model, but for high

Alan highlighted the future challenges and risks about human behaviour and touched on the scenario planning work the Agency had done looking out to 2100. The effects of climate

Cathy provided an excellent presentation on SWW’s “Upstream Thinking” initiative on catchment management. The company is now restoring 2500ha on Exmoor. This she said is involving the rural communities in land management supported by the water company through ‘ecosystem service payments’. It was clear that catchment management solutions provide a far more sustainable and ‘win-win’ approach to delivering improved water quality than high cost, high carbon treatment plants.

Jon closed the evening with a talk on market reform, bringing in Ofwat’s ‘Future Price Limits’ consultation. The two he said were inextricably linked.

Phill concluded that yes the White Paper does set out the challenges facing the sector and does provide as the Minister, Richard Benyon has suggested “a vision and a clear direction for the future”. However it is a direction and not a plan. Much has yet to be developed, so that well used adage the devil is in the detail – applies. There are concerns within the sector and amongst the sector’s investors, about market reform. Finally has it covered everything? – Inevitably not.

This led seamlessly into follow up presentations from Alan Weston (Water Resources Manager, Environment Agency); Cathy McGarvey (Environmental Coordinator, South West Water) and Jon Weeks (Markets and Reform Manager, Wessex Water).

16,000ml/d used. A response from the audience later suggested this was needed for inbuilt resilience and flexibility, but it was clear why the regulators believe there is scope for licence trading and reform.

On competition he maintained there must be no cross subsidy from household customers, who would not see the benefits of competition, to commercial customers who would.

He suggested companies would have to provide a default tariff and service level for non-household customers; however details have yet to be set. The company he suggested supports retail competition but they do have concerns about the more complex upstream market competition.

vulnerability zones it could be over 100 different scenarios.

Alan also touched on the existing licensing regime, pointing out that the electricity sector had a licensed output of 32,000ml/d but in the example year actually took 12,000ml/d. For the water sector it was 27,000ml/d licensed and

Looking ahead Jon suggested there was still much to be considered, including totex – would an industry average capex/opex split suggest really work without adversely affecting some customers’ bills; accounting separation – and where is this taking the companies; and reducing the regulatory burden? He concluded that rewards promote innovation, and the company was keen to see more of that. On the flip side, penalties promote risk aversion.

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The First Eastern Area Innovation Awards

By Sharna Richings

From a list of strong contenders for the Eastern Area Innovation Awards, Veolia Water Central were declared winner with their range of online customer self-help video guides. There are 10 videos on a variety of water–related topics which show customers what to do in a real-life setting using practical demonstrations and simple language.

Veolia Water Central's Customer Service Technician, Rob King, with their range of online customer self-help video guides, which was declared winner of the Eastern Area Innovation Awards

This was an inexpensive project that realised the advantages of a very visual, simple, easy to follow medium. It also recognised the rise in use of the Internet and smartphones and uses video sharing sites, such as YouTube, to increase availability. It allows customers to self-serve when and where they wish, for example, they can view the videos outside while they look for stop-taps, read their meter and identify leaks.

Rob King, Customer Service Technican at Veolia Water Central, featured in the filming. The videos have been viewed over 24,300 times since their launch which has led to increased customer self-service, increased customer satisfaction, a reduction in customer contact and cost savings.

The judging panel was also impressed by another strong entry - The Water Innovation Network

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Other strong contenders included the Water Innovation Network and OXEMS Underground Asset Management System

(WIN), an initiative launched by the UK Centre for Economic & Environmental Development (UKCEED) and Anglian Water. It brings Anglian Water and the supply chain together to look at opportunities for increased efficiency, carbon reduction and improved customer service across all water and wastewater activities.

The network uses a combination of activities including an online idea submission process known as The Innovation Portal which has been set up to allow companies to share their innovations with Anglian Water.

Whilst WIN is still relatively new it has already demonstrated its effectiveness in attracting innovation ideas into Anglian Water. The supply chain companies have benefited from the openness and transparency that this approach has

provided and has helped them to build a mutually beneficially relationship with Anglian Water. Quite literally a ‘WIN WIN’ arrangement.

A further entry which stood out was OXEMS Underground Asset Management System. This innovation provides a solution to the problem of detecting plastic pipes. By using an integrated tag and CAT detector and an identification system, utilities can automatically record and recall asset information quickly and simply in real time from the street. Information is displayed to the user in map and data form consistent with existing practice. Benefits of the OXEMS System include quantifiable reductions in road works, improvements in site based health and safety, reduced carbon footprint and reduced M&R costs.

To learn more contact Kevin Gooding, kgooding@oxems.com

EASTERNAREANEWS

YOUNG PERSONS FORUM

London 2012

By Lynn Cooper

By Samantha O'Hara The Eastern Area’s Young Persons Forum was an opportunity for attendees to gain a wider understanding of the benefits of CPD and how the Institute can support members in the process of gaining professional recognition. The event was open to members and non-members alike.

Numerous requests were received asking what the definition of “young” is, and the answer is all ages. The success of this event was the variety of speakers and attendees allowing theory and experience to be shared. CPD is a continual process, with the clue being in the title and should not be restricted to any age. In the workshops following the speeches this variety ensured that understanding was gained and shared.

National President, Nick Ellins, introduced the event and the Institute, encouraging the process of CPD and the use of the Institute’s resources and experience to help on the journey through its events, mentorship scheme and networking potential. As the Institute’s CPD champion Ian Limb showed attendees how CPD can change your job perspective from “bitter & twisted” to “happy and driven”.

Catherine Serusclat gave Veolia Water’s approach to developing its people with its people promise and a number of schemes it operates such as the Graduate Scheme, mentoring system and Talent Management.

From Anglian Water, Sassy Horry took us on a stroll through the garden ensuring we try to Cultivate Professionalism Daily (CPD) by visualising the aim, surveying the plot, selecting the seeds, putting down roots and reviewing the finished effort.

Stephanie Baker joined Thames Water as a graduate in October 2010. Having spent the first year of her career working within Clean Water Networks, she is now leading the Field Operations work stream for the London 2012 project.

Stephanie travelled to Peterborough to share her experiences in a joint Pipeline Industries Guild, Institution of Mechanical Engineers and Institute of Water evening seminar, hosted by Anglian Water.

‘London 2012’ - The Olympic and Paralympic Games - will be the largest event and movement of people in the UK since the Second World War. As the official Water & Waste Water Provider for the Games, Thames Water is responsible for overseeing the installation of the permanent infrastructure on the Olympic Park and the temporary infrastructure to supply the other London Venues such as Greenwich Park and Horse Guards Parade that will host the Equestrian Events and Beach Volleyball.

The Olympic Park covers an area of 2.5 square miles (357 Football Pitches) and contains 8 of the key games venues including the 80,000 seat Olympic Stadium, Athletes’ Village capable of holding 17,000 athletes, International Broadcast Centre and the main Press Centre.

Samantha O’Hara gave the “young person’s view” of CPD trying to show how she had used and intended on using CPD in her career planning. Finally Thomas Enright took us on a personal journey through his career and decision points where he applied “do” and “don’t” tips of successful CPD.

From the date the athletes begin arriving on 15th July to the close of the Paralympic Games on 9th September there will be a resource dedicated to ‘London 2012‘ which, at times of peak demand, will involve around 130 staff. This will give:

Overall the event was a great success with a variety of speakers sharing knowledge and experience on different aspects of CPD and how the Institute could support the journey.

3 Hour Response to all other London Olympic Venues, London Road Event Routes, Olympic Villages, their curtilage and last mile when in use/ occupied for scheduled games.

series of dedicated Olympic Routes that will ensure the Athletes & Officials get to the venues on time. To support this, utility works on these routes need to be minimised.

In the event that things do go wrong, Thames Water is putting together its own Olympic Team.

They will carry the flag for Thames Water, getting out of the blocks early to respond to any incidents that might affect the Games or people getting to and from them.

How many extra people will be in London for 2012?

Only a 5% increase in the total across London but 5-10% in Greenwich and 50% in Newham.

Not only does Thames Water have the challenge of servicing the games at their London venues, it also has to carry out business as usual for its current customers. This has already had an impact where street works embargoes came into force as early as 1st March. There will be no slacking on internal or external targets so the challenge is to maintain the highest level of service to 5% more customers when water resources have been reduced by drought and when access to repair leaks is restricted.

Thames Water is committed to making the Games a success and regards London 2012 as an opportunity to enhance its hard-earned reputation.

Half Hour Response to Olympic Park, Athletes Village, their curtilage and last mile;

One of the keys to success will be keeping London moving. ‘Transport for London’ has created a

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SOUTHEASTAREANEWS

A Day in the Life of a Wastewater Treatment Works Technician

By Steve Youell

The successful ‘Day in the Life’ series continued in February with members finding out what a Wastewater Treatment Works Technician does on a day to day basis.

The event took place at Southern Water’s Ford Wastewater Treatment Works which handles the combined wastewater flow from the towns of Bognor Regis and Littlehampton, a population of around 130, 000. As well as treating its own sludge it also receives and treats sludge and sludge cake from other smaller treatment works within the area; all the sludge is then put through a digestion process and then is thermally dried.

This dried sludge is then bagged and is supplied to farmers as fertiliser (which proves very popular).

The first part of the event saw Area Manager Derek Cannell give an overview of the site, its main processes and the main day to day responsibilities of the staff. Derek also spoke about the measures in place in case of high demand and the stringent sampling process of suspended solids, BOD and COD that is in place to ensure the works releases the effluent to the right quality standards.

After which we were treated to a tour of the site by District Manager Jim Scott (who recognised some

INNOVATION AWARD WINNER 2012

By Jim Marshall The South East Area’s first Innovation Awards were run this year as a virtual event and were a great success. Nine applications for the award were received from water companies, the supply chain and contractors from across the South East.

Given that we only gave entrants three weeks to put their case together this was impressive.

Judging (again virtual thanks to the power of Dropbox and e-mail) was carried out by a panel formed of our Area President David Port, committee member Ameer Abro, myself and we were delighted to include the Chief Executive of UKWIR, Hans Jensen.

The quality of entries was exceptional and the result was very, very close. All the entrants are worthy of recognition. Portsmouth Water for their solar energy project; Thames Water for their blackwater recycling project; GPS for their work on a pipe with integrated towing head; Capita for their work on energy recovery; Arnolds

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Environmental for their approach to addressing hydrogen sulphide; Oxems for their innovative underground asset management system; Essex and Suffolk Water for their improved ways of working around GAC replacement and to British Water for promoting new ways of accelerating and promoting innovation within the sector.

However in the end there could only be one winner and Veolia Water Central with their work with Kobus in developing a ‘safe and innovative approach to service pipe replacement’ came out on top. As the regional winner they were put forward for the National Award.

This was our first year hosting these Awards in the South East Area and the standard of entries has been exceptionally high. This is testament to the wealth of talent that is out there. I am already looking forward to the next year’s event and have some ideas on how to improve the process to really capture and celebrate the innovation that exists in the water industry.

of us from a previous visit to Budds Farm WWTW).

Jim showed us the different treatment processes including settling tanks, oxygen aerators and filter beds and the water quality at each treatment stage. We were also shown how the dried sludge is produced and packaged ready for the farmers to collect.

Many thanks to the staff at Ford for accommodating us for the afternoon especially Derek Cannell and Jim Scott.

Breaking news

NEW AWARD FOR RECRUITING MOST NEW MEMBERS We are pleased to announce a new cash award which will be presented annually to the member who introduces the most new members in the year. This replaces the quarterly draw where members who had introduced any new members during that quarter were drawn at random.

The Award will be presented at the Annual Conference, starting in Edinburgh next year, so the year starts now. Make sure if you introduce a new member they quote you on their application form.

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