WSD launches pilot scheme for random inspection of new plumbing works during construction stage

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     To tighten regulatory control of plumbing works and thereby enhance drinking water safety, the Water Supplies Department (WSD) announced today (March 20) that a pilot scheme for random inspection of new plumbing works during the construction stage will be launched with effect from April 1. It is a new measure in addition to the interim and final inspections carried out under the Waterworks Regulations.

     Under the one-year pilot scheme, the WSD will shortlist a number of new plumbing works projects under construction bimonthly, and select projects for random inspection based on a risk-based principle taking into account the risk factors and consequences of non-compliance.

     The risk factors include:

(i) the scale and nature of the projects;
(ii) the workload, past performance, experience and Continuing Professional Development credits of the licensed plumbers engaged;
(iii) whether the plumbing contractors engaged are included in the "Plumbing Installation" category on the List of Approved Specialist Contractors for Public Works maintained by the Development Bureau or in the "Plumbing" category on the List of Registered Subcontractors maintained by the Construction Industry Council; and
(iv) whether soldering/brazing materials are used.

     The WSD will randomly select plumbing materials on-site and plumbing works, including the pipes, fittings and solder/brazed joints constructed or installed on-site, for inspection and non-destructive testing in a bid to identify irregularities for early rectification to avoid delay of works and possible difficulties in rectification after completion of works.

     The scheme covers new fresh water plumbing works in domestic buildings and buildings for sensitive consumers such as hospitals, clinics, convalescent homes, elderly homes and schools. The WSD will review the scheme nine months after its implementation and the result will serve as a reference for designing the details of the long-term implementation of the random inspections.

     Details of the scheme are available on the WSD's website (www.wsd.gov.hk/en/plumbing_and_engineering/circular_letters/index.html). For enquiries, please call the department's 24-hour hotline at 2824 5000 or email wsdinfo@wsd.gov.hk.

Ends/Monday, March 20, 2017
Issued at HKT 15:00

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