Private supply risk assessments
Risk assessments of Private Water Supplies (PWS) and Private Distribution Systems (PDSs) were first introduced in the Private Water Supply Regulations 2009.
Regulation six requires local authorities to risk assess all PWS (except single domestic dwellings) at least once every five years and look at the source of the supply as well as the surrounding area to see if contamination can occur. It also involves checks of any treatment systems, the storage tanks and the pipework. The risk assessment aims to identify actual and potential hazards that may affect the health of those drinking the water, and the actions that should be taken to mitigate those risks.
Private distribution systems
Risk assessments of private distribution systems (PDSs) or Regulation 8 supplies (PDF) include: pipes, storage tanks, stand pipes, etc. which joins the building/properties owned by the site to those owned or occupied by another company, organisation or person.
The risk assessment will inform what monitoring parameters are required along with certain recommended parameters.
Whenever a local authority becomes aware of changes in relation to the nature, quality or operation of a private supply in their area already on the record, the risk assessment for that supply should be updated to reflect the new information.