WRAS and the Water Regulation 1999 – Do you comply?

WRAS. Everyone’s heard of it. In fact, most people assume that if their commercial laundry or warewashing equipment has those four letters marked on it, then they are fully compliant.

Well, think again.

Just because your machine is WRAS approved. It does not necessarily mean you comply with the Water Regulations 1999.

Allow us to explain.

Firstly let’s look at what WRAS actually is. The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme is a ‘for-profit’ organisation owned and managed by the UK’s water companies. Then in 1999, the abbreviated ‘WRAS’ was introduced as a conformance mark, which demonstrates that an item complies with the high standards set out in the Water Regulations of that year. THEN, it was introduced as a seal of approval for all approved plumbing fittings as well as water consuming equipment.

So who does it affect? WRAS and the standards it represents applies to all plumbing systems, water fittings and equipment which are fed water from the public water supply.

It is important to note that whilst it is NOT a legal requirement to have WRAS approved equipment in your premises, it absolutely IS a legal requirement to meet the Water Regulations 1999. And while all leading industry bodies agree that using WRAS equipment and fittings is the safest, easiest and often cheapest way of meeting these legalities, fitting said equipment incorrectly may breach the regulations.

What’s the answer? If the time has come for you to consider a new commercial laundry or warewashing solution, purchasing WRAS approved products is a huge step in the right direction.

Then, using a team of highly-trained engineers like JTM, who are all fully aware of the WRAS guidelines for fitting equipment in a safe and compliant manner, will safeguard against any potentially costly installation errors.

In summary, you can meet the legal requirements of the Water Regulations 1999 with or without WRAS approved appliances, but it’s far easier with. And, choosing an experienced installation and maintenance partner will ensure you remain compliant for many years to come.

Why not speak to JTM about your commercial laundry or warewashing needs and how we can help you to be compliant? Give us a call on 0800 652 5692.