At Polypipe Building Products, safeguarding water quality is a top priority.

This is why many of our systems are REG4 certified, meeting the mandatory requirements of the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

Why REG4 Certification Matters for UK Infrastructure

REG4 approval confirms that our products are safe for use in potable (drinking) water systems. While this compliance is often verified through the WRAS (Water Regulations Approval Scheme), REG4 remains the primary legal benchmark to ensure that plumbing components do not contaminate water, compromise system integrity or pose health risks.

Our REG4-certified solutions, such as the PolyPlumb® Enhanced range, undergo rigorous testing for:

  • Material Safety: Ensuring no toxic substances leach into the water supply.
  • Mechanical Performance: Verifying that joints and fittings withstand high-pressure environments.
  • Long-term Reliability: Testing for durability to prevent leaks and water waste over the system's lifespan.

 

Whether you are working on a hospital, high-rise development or residential project, Polypipe Building Products provides REG4-approved solutions that offer peace of mind, legal compliance and trusted performance.

Installation Compliance Checklist for REG4 and Water Regulations

When installing potable water systems, following these steps ensures that your project remains compliant with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 and maintains the high standards of Polypipe Building Products.

  1. Verify Product Certification: Ensure every fitting, pipe, and valve is REG4 certified. Look for the WRAS or BSI Kitemark approval on the packaging or technical datasheet.
  2. Prevent Cross-Contamination: Always maintain the required air gaps and backflow prevention measures. This ensures that non-potable water cannot siphon back into the clean mains supply.
  3. Use Approved Lubricants and Sealants: Only use jointing compounds and lubricants that are specifically approved for use with drinking water to avoid chemical leaching.
  4. System Flushing and Disinfection: Before commissioning, ensure the entire system is thoroughly flushed and, where required by local water authorities, disinfected to remove any construction debris or bacteria.
  5. Correct Support and Spacing: Follow the specific technical guidance for products E.g. For PolyPlumb® Enhanced regarding pipe clipping and support intervals. This prevents mechanical stress and potential long-term joint failure.
  6. Thermal Expansion Management: Ensure there is adequate room for thermal expansion, particularly in hot water circuits, to protect the integrity of the REG4-certified joints.