Ensuring potable water safety is a non‑negotiable responsibility for utilities, engineers, and contractors. While treatment facilities and disinfection systems are vital, smaller components such as valves often determine whether water quality is maintained all the way to the tap.
In the UK and many global markets, WRAS‑certified valves have become a benchmark for compliance and safety. They are not just a regulatory checkbox—they are an essential safeguard against contamination in drinking water systems.
The Risks of Using Non‑Certified Valves
Non‑certified valves can introduce serious risks into potable water networks:
- Material Leaching – Metals or elastomers may release harmful substances such as lead, volatile organic compounds, or unwanted chemicals.
- Microbial Growth – Rough surfaces and unsuitable coatings encourage bacteria and biofilm formation.
- Seal Failure – Low‑quality sealing materials deteriorate faster, allowing contaminants to enter the system.
- Cross‑Connection Hazards – Poor internal design can increase the chance of contamination from backflow events.
Even a single substandard valve can undermine the safety of an entire distribution network.
Why WRAS Certification Matters
The Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) approval confirms that every component in contact with drinking water meets strict UK water regulations. This includes:
- Material Safety – Tested to ensure no harmful leaching into potable water.
- Performance Assurance –Proven to operate within required pressure and temperature conditions.
- Sensory Neutrality– Certified not to alter taste, odour, or appearance of the water..
Although WRAS is specific to the UK, it is widely respected internationally. Similar standards exist in other regions, such as NSF/ANSI 61 in the United States, ACS in France, and WaterMark in Australia. For water utilities, engineers, and contractors, WRAS certification is a strong indicator of safety, compliance, and long‑term reliability.
Valve Selection: Certification Alone Is Not Enough
At Union Valve, we have seen that certification is only one part of the equation. Correct valve selection is equally critical to long‑term performance and safety. Factors to consider include:
1.Certification Priority – Always choose WRAS‑approved or equivalent valves for potable water systems.
2. Material Compatibility –
- Valve Body: Ductile iron with approved epoxy coating, or stainless steel 304/316 for higher corrosion resistance.
- Sealing Components: WRAS‑approved EPDM or equivalent potable‑grade elastomers.
3. Valve Type for Application –
- Butterfly Valves: Compact, cost‑effective, and easy to install.
- Gate Valves: Full‑bore design for minimal pressure loss.
- Ball Valves: Quick shut‑off and excellent sealing performance.
Selection should reflect flow control requirements, operating frequency, and installation constraints.
4. Operating Conditions – Consider system pressure, temperature, and water chemistry to avoid premature wear.
5. Maintenance Accessibility – Choose designs that allow seal replacement, actuator servicing, and easy inspection.
Case Example: WRAS Certification and Selection in Practice
In one municipal distribution project, residents reported unpleasant taste and odour in tap water. Investigation revealed that non‑certified valves had been installed during a network upgrade. Although structurally sound, these valves used sealing materials that leached compounds into the water.
The municipality replaced them with WRAS‑certified butterfly and gate valves selected for the correct pressure rating, coating, and seal material. Within weeks, taste complaints disappeared, and water quality met all regulatory benchmarks. The project demonstrated that certification and proper selection together are essential to maintaining potable water safety.
Procurement and Engineering Best Practices
To ensure safety and compliance in potable water systems:
- Specify WRAS certification (or equivalent) as a non‑negotiable requirement in procurement documents.
- Confirm that all wetted materials meet local drinking water regulations.
- Request full certification documentation and material test reports from suppliers.
- Partner with experienced valve manufacturers who understand potable water applications and regulatory requirements.
Conclusion: Certification + Correct Selection = Long‑Term Safety
In potable water systems, certification is the starting point of trust. WRAS approval ensures that a valve will not compromise water safety, but correct selection—considering materials, design, and application—is what ensures that performance remains consistent throughout its life cycle.
A certified, well‑chosen valve protects public health, reduces maintenance costs, and safeguards the reputation of the utility or contractor. In short: choose certified, choose wisely, and protect the water we all rely on.
