Leak prevention System Specification
1. Introduction
This design note has been produced to detail the leak detection & shut off system, required to comply with the insurance requirements, and best practice guidance given in “Managing Escape of Water Risk on Construction Sites”, as published by the construction Insurance Risk Engineers Group (CIREG).
An effective escape of water prevention system is one made up of multiple automatic flow monitoring and smart shut-off valves. The system must have the following features:
- Continuous Monitoring: The system should continuously monitor the water flow in the pipes to detect any abnormalities or leaks
- Sensors: Flow and water contact sensors should be placed at key points in the plumbing system to isolate high risk areas and detect any water egress.
- Quick Response: The system should be able to quickly respond to any detected leaks by shutting off the water supply to the affected area.
- Data Analytics: The system should provide data analytics capabilities, enabling automatic detection of any potential issues before they become major problems.
- Remote Monitoring: The system should provide remote monitoring and control capabilities, enabling homeowners and/or property managers to monitor and control the system from anywhere.
- Alarm Notifications: The system should provide instant alarm notifications to alert users of any detected leaks or abnormalities.
- Backup Power: The system should have backup power in case of power outages to ensure continuous monitoring and protection.
- Compatibility: The system should be compatible with a wide range of plumbing systems and appliances.
- Easy Installation: The system should be easy to install and configure, with clear instructions and minimal disruption to the existing plumbing system.
This information will support the contractor in providing budget costs for the work associated with meeting this requirement.
2. Leak Detection / Shut-off Device Requirements
It is an insurance requirement/recommendation that automatic flow monitoring and smart shut-off valves will be installed on all:
- Mains incoming pipework, permanent and/or temporary
- MCWS / BCWS risers
- MCWS / BCWS branches to each floor
- Incoming pipework to each apartment
3. Proposed System
The contractor is to include an internet-enabled leak detection system made up of automatic flow monitoring and smart shut-off valves, which alerts multiple users via SMS and/or email on the detection of a leak.
Main Features:
- Managed using app on smartphone, tablet or computer.
- Shared access to any number of stakeholders.
- To include data analytics allowing water consumption to be automatically tracked and the pattern of normal water usage to be learned.
- SMS and/or email alerts to be sent if unusual water usage is detected and the ability to turn the water off automatically and remotely (via app).
- Option for scheduled shutoff to automatically turn the water off out-of-hours (during construction phase).
- To be powered through mains plug/adaptor.
- To include for battery backup, providing at least 24 hours of operation in the event of the mains power failure.
- To include the capability to connect to a central BMS.
- To include a sprinkler override facility which uses a signal to force the valve open and prevent water shutoff during the event of a fire.
The installed system shall also include a self-contained cellular GSM network throughout unless on-site Wi-Fi is available that can be connected to.
The installed system shall be commissioned by the specialist contractor with alerts configured on installation and one month after. Commissioning Certificates and Standard Operating Procedures are to be supplied and handover training provided.
4. Proposed System Provider
The system shall be provided and commissioned by:
Quensus Intelligent Water Management
Contact: Paul Charlesworth
Email: sales@quensus.com
Tel: +44 (0)115 906 1297
Address: Quensus, Nottingham, NG8 6PE, UK
Or equal and approved.
