EUSLDC1/6 Confirm performance of specified parts of the distribution network

Overview

This Standard is about confirming performance of specified parts of the distribution network.

This includes checking that information and plans about metered areas are in agreement with what is actually found in the ground, that valves and meters are where they are expected to be, are working as expected and that District Metered Area (DMA) boundary valves are accessible. It also includes fitting and using meters and gauges to provide additional data to verify the network when required and identifying and dealing with any problems when network fittings or equipment require repair or maintenance.

This Standard is for anyone who confirms performance of specified parts of the distribution network.

Performance Criteria

You must be able to:

  1. follow safe working and hygiene processes in accordance with approved procedures and practices at all times
  2. determine the sequence of activities from work instructions to make effective use of time in line with organisational procedures
  3. read and interpret geographic information system mapping systems to identify asset information in line with organisational procedures
  4. confirm location of specified fittings against site and network plans in line with organisational procedures
  5. check that boundary valves and zonal valves are as specified, accessible and not passing water in line with organisational procedures
  6. correlate onsite data at district metering areas and expected nightlines in line with organisational procedures, taking account of seasonal variations and events
  7. select, use and carry out operational checks on meters and pressure gauges in line with manufacturers’ safety instructions
  8. operate valves in accordance with safe valving procedures and calm network techniques when required to assist in network validation
  9. carry out operational checks in line with organisational procedures to confirm that meters, gauges, connections and ancillary items work as expected for the duration required
  10. identify possible reasons and follow an appropriate course of action in line with organisational procedures when valves, meters, gauges, connections or ancillary items are not working as expected
  11. report any network fittings or equipment that requires repair or maintenance in accordance with organisational procedures
  12. record flow and pressure information, details of equipment use and configuration information in accordance with organisational procedures
  13. remove meters, gauges, connections and ancillary items in line with manufacturers’ instructions on completion of each job

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. regulations, company procedures and processes relating to health, safety, environment, emergencies and hygiene
  2. how to prioritise work activities
  3. where to find and how to interpret information about metered areas, existing and new valves, meters, hydrants and other fittings including plans, data, records, trends from historic data, surface evidence of route of mains
  4. how to use geographic information mapping systems and what asset information they can provide including location, material, age, history and size
  5. the importance of checking site and network plans, how to interpret them and how the correlation of onsite data at district metering areas and expected nightlines can be used to prioritise areas for investigation
  6. the implications of seasonal variations and events on network performance
  7. the purpose and uses of boundary valves, how to access and operate them and how they can assist in network assessment and validation, procedures to follow to ensure safe valving operation and water tightness and the consequences of inappropriate operation
  8. what is meant by a calm network and techniques to achieve and maintain them
  9. the consequences of making any changes or variations to water quality and supply, with regard to organisational limits
  10. the importance of not affecting system pressures
  11. the function of different types of meters and gauges, their normal operating parameters and how to carry out operational checks and take readings from them
  12. attachment and removal methods for meters, gauges, connections and ancillary items
  13. how to identify and deal with typical and unusual problems with meters and gauges including those caused by damage, faulty operation, leaks, maintenance needs
  14. organisational reporting and recording requirements and procedures, including who to report repair and maintenance details to