Update on inspection on replumbing works
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The works involved replacement of some 60 metres of communal pipes of the inside service of the building and were unrelated to the pipes of individual units. The WSD immediately notified the related owners' corporation of the incident and the results of the test of water samples for notification to the tenants. In addition, the related licensed plumber has subsequently replaced the non-compliant materials. The WSD is continuing an in-depth investigation into the case and will take appropriate action in accordance with the Waterworks Ordinance.
With regard to the discovery of the use of leaded solder in the replumbing works of a residential building in Sham Shui Po on April 10, the investigation of the WSD proved that the related licensed plumber had contravened the Waterworks Ordinance. His license has therefore been cancelled.
Since the occurrence of the lead-in-drinking-water incident at public rental housing estates in 2015, licenses of a total of six licensed plumbers have been cancelled or suspended due to contravention of the Ordinance by using leaded solder. One of the licensed plumbers was responsible for the aforementioned Sham Shui Po case, three were related to the lead-in-drinking-water incident at public rental housing estates in 2015, and two were responsible for plumbing works in non-residential buildings.
To further enhance the control of materials and conduct of replumbing works, the WSD issued a circular letter to the industry today on enhanced workflow for replumbing works, requiring the practitioners to strengthen control on jointing methods, use pre-treated fittings and submit lead check results to the Water Authority on a daily basis. The circular letter entitled Online Re-plumbing Works is available on the WSD's website (www.wsd.gov.hk/en/plumbing_and_engineering/circular_letters/index.html).
"The WSD will continue to step up effort in conducting inspections of ongoing replumbing works and strengthening communication with plumbing practitioners to raise their awareness of the importance of using proper soldering materials in replumbing works," the spokesman said.
For enquiries, please call the WSD's 24-hour hotline at 2824 5000 or email wsdinfo@wsd.gov.hk.
Ends/Friday, May 26, 2017
Issued at HKT 19:15
Issued at HKT 19:15
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