Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS)
What is WRAS Approval?
WRAS Approval refers to the certification provided by the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) in the United Kingdom. It is an essential mark that signifies that a product or material is compliant with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 and the Water Byelaws. The primary objective of WRAS Approval is to ensure that products used in plumbing and water systems do not contaminate the drinking water supply.
WRAS Approval is crucial for manufacturers and suppliers of plumbing products, fittings, and systems. The approval process involves rigorous testing and evaluation to confirm that the products meet safety and performance standards. This certification helps safeguard public health by ensuring that all materials and products used in water systems maintain the quality of drinking water.
Products that typically require WRAS Approval include taps, valves, pipes, and other fittings that come into contact with drinking water. Having WRAS Approval enhances the credibility of manufacturers and suppliers in the marketplace, as it assures customers and regulatory bodies that their products meet the highest standards for water safety and quality.
Benefits of getting WRAS Approval for Business?
Getting a WRAS Approval offers several benefits for businesses. Here are some potential advantages:
Regulatory Compliance
Ensures that products meet UK water supply regulations, helping manufacturers comply with legal requirements.
Public Health Protection
Reduces the risk of water contamination by ensuring that approved products do not compromise drinking water quality.
Market Advantage
Enhances product credibility and competitiveness, as WRAS Approval is recognized by regulators, contractors, and consumers.
Consumer Confidence
Provides assurance to customers that products are safe, reliable, and compliant with health standards.
Access to Larger Markets
Many UK water companies and contractors require WRAS Approved products, increasing market opportunities for manufacturers.
Quality Assurance
Involves rigorous testing and evaluation processes, ensuring high-quality standards for plumbing products and materials.
Reduced Risk of Legal Issues
Helps manufacturers avoid potential fines and legal actions associated with non-compliance with water regulations.
Promotion of Best Practices
Encourages the adoption of best practices in product design and manufacturing, leading to safer and more efficient plumbing solutions.
Environmental Sustainability
Many WRAS Approved products are designed to be water-efficient, contributing to overall water conservation efforts.
For information on WRAS Approval, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We welcome the opportunity to discuss the process and requirements for becoming an esteemed partner.
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Who can get WRAS Approval?
The WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) Approval is a regulatory certification in the United Kingdom, ensuring that products and materials comply with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 and the Water Byelaws. This approval guarantees that products used in water systems meet safety and quality standards, preventing contamination of the drinking water supply.
The following entities or businesses may seek approval from WRAS:
Manufacturers
Suppliers
Distributors
Contractors
Importers
Designers
Treatment Companies
Appliance Producers
R&D Entities
Certification Bodies
Educational Institutions
Appliance Producers
Document required for WRAS Approval
- System Manual
- System Procedure
- Policy
- Objectives
- Mission & Vision
- Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
- Checklist
- Forms
- Formats
- Records
The extent of Documented Information differs as per:
- Organization’s size
- Activities performed by the organization
- Processes undertaken by the Organization
- Products and services offered by the organization
- The complexity of processes undertaken
- Competence of persons involved
Role of Shamkris and Process of WRAS Approval
Shamkris adopts a results-oriented approach to effective system implementation in the organization. A simple and practical method of system implementation helps organizations increase business efficiency and sustainability. Shamkris supports 100% documentation to obtain buyer approval in addition to enhanced performance.
The implementation process is described below:
Time Frame
Task
Process
Step 1
GAP Assessment
- GAP Assessment report as per WRAS Approval checklist
Step 3
Training
- Training to Top Management
- Training to Employee's
Step 4
Implementation
- Verification of Documentation as per Checklist
- Internal Audit, Management Review Meeting & N-Closer for Internal Audit
Step 5
Audit Public Verification
- Verification by third party approval by WRAS Approval
- Closer of Non-Conformetives
Year on Year
Yearly Compliance
- Support of Monthly & Quarterly Basis
FAQ
WRAS Approval is a certification that indicates a product complies with UK water supply regulations to ensure safe drinking water.
It protects public health by ensuring that plumbing products do not contaminate drinking water and ensures compliance with legal standards.
Manufacturers, suppliers, contractors, and designers of plumbing products and systems can apply for WRAS Approval.
Products such as taps, valves, pipes, and other plumbing fittings that come into contact with drinking water typically require approval.
The approval process duration can vary depending on the complexity of the product and the testing required, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months.
Benefits include regulatory compliance, enhanced product credibility, consumer confidence, and access to larger markets.
Manufacturers must submit their products for testing and evaluation by an accredited certification body to obtain WRAS Approval.
While it is not a legal requirement, WRAS Approval is highly recommended and often required by water suppliers and local authorities.
Yes, existing products can be submitted for WRAS Approval to ensure they meet current standards and regulations.
If a product fails, manufacturers are typically provided with feedback on the issues, allowing them to make necessary modifications and resubmit for approval.