Today's topic is specific, I know.
Why am i writing about this? because it comes up many times with clients who are not part of the industry and are advised by plumbers who have not qualified in the UK and regularly make unlawful installations that could get clients into trouble.I am not a plumber but i have gone through this process with the support of an MEP team and qualified plumbers multiple times so here it is what i know and you should know. :
(Dear plumbers and MEPs in my network, feel free to correct me if i am using the wrong technical words)
1. This is work covered by the building regulations (LINK: https://lnkd.in/epffYSmM ) as such, all clients have a duty to appoint competent people.
2. It is also covered by the water regulations which in the UK are more stringent than in Europe and elsewhere. When it comes to douches, due to the high risk of contamination associated with them, they are classified as Fluid Category 5.
Why? Because douches are considered a high-risk category due to their proximity to potential sources of contamination (e.g., toilets) and improper installation may lead to a backflow of contaminated water into the drinking water supply.
Aside from the obvious (impacting the health of the property owners) non-compliance brings liability to the installation. For example (this example was provided to me by an MEP engineer) "it could result in charges as severe as life imprisonment for corporate manslaughter, should someone within the building die from say cholera"
Hopefully it is clear by now that when designing and installing these types of facilities the correct level of backflow prevention needs to be planned. You will need:
- A CAT 5 break tank and pump unit.
- A small electric water heater to provide hot water, as it cannot be sourced - from the main domestic hot water system.
(should probably have pointed out that this is the compact solution)
As a result, the required installations can be more complex and costly than standard plumbing fixtures. And will require careful planning and coordination to ensure that all components are compatible and meet regulatory requirements.
Of course, you could but (not a seat conversion from Amazon) an actual washlet (i.e. a loo with the system incorporated already) that is WRAS approved . It is not difficult to check (example: https://lnkd.in/eBcSpjTK )
As a final point i would like to remind you that douches may not comply with your lease and will require a license to alter for all the above and the fact that, if allowed, would likely require tanking to avoid impacting your neighbours.
In Conclusion
While douches may be desirable, their installation in the UK requires careful consideration and adherence to strict regulations. It is crucial to consult with a qualified and experienced plumber who is familiar with these regulations to ensure safe and compliant installation.
