The significance of International Standards for businesses in water supply and drinking water areas

Water is a vital resource for human survival and economic development, making it crucial for businesses operating in the water supply and drinking water sectors to maintain high standards. With increasing globalization, the importance of international standards cannot be understated. These standards provide a common framework that ensures the quality, safety, and sustainability of water-related products and services across borders. In this article, we will explore the significance of international standards for businesses in the water supply and drinking water areas, highlighting their benefits and role in promoting global harmonization.

Devices to prevent pollution by backflow of potable water - Air gap with non-circular overflow (unrestricted) - Family A - Type B

EN 13077:2023

International standards provide guidelines for the testing and certification of water-related products such as filtration systems, pipes, and valves. Adhering to these standards helps businesses ensure that their products are safe, reliable, and compatible with global best practices. One of such documents is EN 13077:2023.

This document specifies the characteristics and the requirements of air gap with non-circular overflow (unrestricted) Family A, Type B for nominal flow velocity not exceeding 3 m/s. Air gaps are devices for protection of potable water in water installations from pollution by backflow. This document applies to air gaps in factory-assembled products and to constructed air gaps in situ and specifies requirements and methods to verify and ensure compliance with this document during normal working use.

The fluid in the receiving vessel is assumed to have similar properties to water. Where this is not the case, additional care or tests could be required to verify the efficacy of the solution in practical use.

The AB device is intended to be used in potable water installations according to EN 806 (all parts).

By adhering to established standard, businesses can maintain a consistent level of quality throughout their operations, ensuring that consumers receive water that meets recognized benchmarks. Standards cover various aspects, including water treatment processes, distribution networks, and monitoring procedures. Compliance with this standard not only protects public health but also enhances consumer confidence in the water services provided.

Devices to prevent pollution by backflow of potable water - Controllable backflow preventer with reduced pressure zone - Family B - Type A

EN 12729:2023

Sustainability is a critical consideration in the water sector, given the increasing pressure on water resources and the need to minimize environmental impacts. International standards address sustainability aspects by promoting efficient water management, conservation practices, and the use of renewable energy sources in water supply and treatment processes. One of the most recent documents that makes regulation in this sector is EN 12729:2023. This document specifies the field of application, the dimensional, the physico-chemical, the design, the hydraulic, the mechanical, and the acoustic characteristics of controllable backflow preventers with reduced pressure zone, Family B, Type A.

This document covers controllable backflow preventers of Family B, Type A, with reduced pressure zones, intended to prevent pollution of potable water by backflow, caused by backsiphonage or by backpressure.

It is applicable to controllable backflow preventers in denominations DN 6 up to DN 250.

It covers controllable backflow preventers of PN 10 that are capable of working without modification or adjustment:

• at any pressure, up to 1 MPa (10 bar);
• with any pressure variation, up to 1 MPa (10 bar); in permanent duty at a limited temperature of 65 °C and for maximum 1 h at 90 °C. It specifies also the test methods and requirements for verifying their characteristics, the marking and the presentation at delivery.

Standard also encourages the adoption of environmentally friendly practices in wastewater treatment and the reuse of treated water. These practices promote the circular economy concept, where water is considered a valuable resource that can be recycled and utilized for various purposes. Embracing international standards in these areas not only helps protect the environment but also supports the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for water management.

Principles for effective and efficient corporate governance of water utilities

ISO 24540:2023

By implementing standards like ISO 24540:2023, businesses and organizations can reduce their water footprint, conserve resources, and minimize energy consumption, leading to cost savings and a reduced environmental impact.

This document establishes the basis for a framework for water utilities to operate efficiently and effectively considering stakeholder needs and expectations. This document is applicable to all water utilities, regardless of ownership and management model (public or private), size, service provided or location. This document proposes principles for effective and efficient corporate governance of water utilities with a focus on the roles and responsibilities of the responsible bodies and operators and on the decision-making process involving the relevant stakeholders. It also includes key types of decisions to be made.

Compliance with international standard enables businesses to access new markets and expand their customer base. Many countries require imported water-related products and services to meet specific standards, and by aligning with these requirements, businesses can overcome trade barriers and gain a competitive edge. International standard thus contributes to the growth of the water sector by enabling businesses to operate globally and meet diverse market demands.

Drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems and services — Operation and maintenance of on-site domestic wastewater services

ISO 24525:2022

This document provides guidance and specifications for the operation and maintenance (O&M) of on-site domestic wastewater services, using appropriate technologies at any level of development. This document supplements and is intended to be used in conjunction with ISO 24513 and ISO 24521.

This document provides assistance to relevant authorities, training organizations, certification bodies and other responsible entities for the development of regulations, plans and manuals, as well as information and training materials addressed to operators and users of on-site domestic wastewater systems (ODWS). This document is applicable to both publicly and privately operated on-site domestic wastewater (blackwater and greywater) systems for one or more dwellings or other premises where wastewater is generated. Sources of sanitary wastewater in this document are domestic, excluding stormwater runoff.

When businesses adhere to internationally recognized standards, it becomes easier to compare and assess their products and services. This simplifies procurement processes, fosters trust between stakeholders, and promotes fair competition in the global marketplace.

The main importance of implementing international standards

International standards play a crucial role in ensuring the quality, safety, and sustainability of businesses operating in the water supply and drinking water areas. By adhering to these standards, businesses can maintain a consistent level of quality, protect public health, and enhance consumer confidence. Standards also promote sustainable practices, allowing businesses to minimize their environmental impact and reduce costs. Furthermore, international standards facilitate global cooperation, trade, and market access, enabling businesses to expand their operations beyond borders. To address the complex challenges associated with water management, it is essential for businesses to embrace international standards and actively contribute to their development. Stay with iTeh inc. and keep on stable development of your business or organization in accordance with the latest demands of the modern markets.

References:

https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/cen/66e4a11a-aa0b-4f20-8fda-4490dea2c2a1/en-13077-2023 https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/cen/6fcbbb6c-f884-49bd-b3ef-781f7f1ba700/en-12729-2023 https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/iso/b3184da2-73fc-4613-b7b9-6bd7d2401b72/iso-24540-2023 https://standards.iteh.ai/catalog/standards/iso/45d50f6a-e783-492e-98ca-25e8589e001e/iso-24525-2022