Escape of water prevention – the new Joint Code of Practice

The RISC Authority has recently published its new Joint Code of Practice on the prevention and management of escape of water (EoW) on construction sites – a problem which has become increasingly common in recent years. This Code is intended to apply to all projects over £2.5m, however the principles of it should be implemented on small contracts, too.

Why has the Code been introduced?

Water damage is one of the most prevalent causes of claims on construction sites and is of significant concern to the insurance market. This Code therefore aims to reduce the frequency and severity of significant water damage losses on construction sites. It is also anticipated that, by reducing water losses, the Code will help developers and contractors to meet environmental and sustainability goals.

What’s in the Code?

While this Code of Practice will be new to contractors, the sentiment behind it should not be as the overarching principles are about planning, cooperation and taking accountability – common themes in construction.

Planning

The Principal Contractor has a vital part to play in the management of EoW, as they must take responsibility for the development of and adherence to a Water Systems Management Plan (WSMP). As stated in the Code, ‘the purpose of the plan is to provide a clear and logical approach to the management and mitigation of the risk of EoW and consequential damage’. Principal Contractors can refer to the Code for guidance on how to create a WSMP.

Cooperation

The WSMP must cover all aspects of the project from design to completion; as such, the plan must be regularly reviewed at least every six months to ensure it is up to date as work progresses. The Principal Contractor must communicate and cooperate with a range of stakeholders and professionals throughout the project, including the insurers who are likely to audit the WSMP. The Code therefore states that as early as possible, the client, Principal Contractor and other key participants must engage with the construction insurer and the insurer of the finished premises.

Accountability

There are a range of rules and regulations that the Principal Contractor must comply with. For example, the Principal Contractor must nominate a Water Emergency Response Team (WERT) and give each member clear responsibilities. There must be a detailed list of emergency response procedures for incidents occurring inside and outside of working hours, with relevant contact details for emergency responders.

All water systems must be tested and commissioned in line with industry standards. Also, a Wet Work Permit must be implemented, requiring subcontractors to advise the Principal Contractor if their work involves piping, water and other fluids. The subcontractor will need to disclose all the details on a form, an example of which can be found in the Code.

Mitigating risk

The Code of Practice offers some guidance on mitigating the risk of water damage. For example, it flagged that modular construction is particularly susceptible to EoW as water can penetrate between modules without being noticed. This can be mitigated by following basic precautions such as keeping the materials covered when stored outside and elevating them from the ground on pallets.

Also, during these winter months, contractors should remember to drain any water systems that are exposed and/or vulnerable to stop the pipework freezing. Alternatively, pipe lagging and trace heating could be installed.

Get in touch

Our experienced underwriters are always on hand to help brokers source the most relevant cover for their construction clients. Please get in touch with us on 0345 345 4511 or email sales@focus-insurance.com.