Approved_Document_G_Flashcards
What is the purpose of Approved Document G?
To provide guidance on sanitation, hot water safety, and water efficiency requirements for buildings.
When did the 2024 amendments to Approved Document G come into effect?
The 2024 amendments came into effect on 15 June 2024.
Which types of buildings does Approved Document G apply to?
All buildings that require sanitation and water supply, including dwellings and non-domestic buildings.
Why is water efficiency important in building design?
To reduce water consumption, conserve resources, and lower environmental impact.
What are the key topics covered in Approved Document G?
Water efficiency, hot water safety, sanitation systems, and prevention of contamination.
Which other parts of the Building Regulations interact with Approved Document G?
Part H (Drainage and Waste Disposal), Part L (Energy Efficiency), and Part M (Accessibility).
How does Part L (Energy Efficiency) relate to water systems?
It ensures that hot water systems are designed to minimise energy waste and improve efficiency.
Why is hot water safety an important part of Approved Document G?
To prevent scalding risks and ensure safe water temperatures in buildings.
What enforcement actions can be taken for non-compliance with Approved Document G?
Local authorities can refuse building approval or require modifications to meet water efficiency and safety standards.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with Approved Document G?
Building designers, contractors, and building control authorities.
What is the purpose of Section 1 in Approved Document G?
To ensure that buildings have an adequate and potable supply of cold water for consumption and sanitation.
What are the key requirements for cold water supply under Approved Document G?
It must be wholesome, potable, and meet minimum pressure and flow rates.
What is meant by ‘wholesome water’?
Water that meets the requirements of the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations 2016 and is safe for human consumption.
What is the minimum pressure required for cold water supply?
A flow rate of at least 0.07 litres per second at the highest tap in the building.
What precautions should be taken to prevent contamination of the cold water supply?
Use of backflow prevention devices, correct pipework materials, and separation from non-potable supplies.
What is backflow, and why is it a risk?
Backflow occurs when contaminated water flows back into the drinking water supply, posing a health risk.
How can backflow be prevented in cold water supply systems?
By installing appropriate check valves, air gaps, and other backflow prevention devices.
What type of materials should be used for cold water pipes?
Non-corrosive, WRAS-approved materials such as copper or specific plastic types.
How should cold water pipes be positioned to prevent contamination?
They should be placed away from wastewater pipes and adequately insulated to prevent freezing.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with cold water supply regulations?
The building designer, plumbing contractor, and building control authority.
What documentation must be provided to verify compliance with cold water supply requirements?
Water quality test reports, system design documentation, and commissioning certificates.
What happens if a building fails to meet cold water supply requirements?
Remedial measures must be taken before the building is approved for use.
What is the purpose of Section 2 in Approved Document G?
To ensure that buildings have a safe and efficient hot water supply to prevent scalding and contamination.
What are the key requirements for hot water supply under Approved Document G?
It must be supplied at an appropriate temperature, be safely stored, and comply with energy efficiency regulations.
What is the recommended maximum temperature for hot water delivered to baths?
48°C to reduce the risk of scalding.
What is the purpose of thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs)?
To control water temperature and prevent scalding in baths, basins, and showers.
What is the minimum recommended storage temperature for hot water cylinders?
60°C to prevent the growth of Legionella bacteria.
What is Legionella, and why is it a concern in hot water systems?
Legionella bacteria can grow in warm water systems and cause Legionnaires’ disease, a severe respiratory illness.
How can the risk of Legionella be minimised in hot water systems?
By maintaining storage temperatures at or above 60°C and ensuring regular system flushing.
Why should hot water pipes be properly insulated?
To prevent heat loss, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the risk of burns from exposed pipework.
What measures should be taken to prevent backflow in hot water systems?
Installation of check valves, air gaps, and compliance with WRAS-approved materials.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with hot water supply regulations?
The building designer, plumbing contractor, and building control authority.
What documentation must be provided to verify compliance with hot water supply requirements?
System commissioning reports, temperature test results, and compliance certificates.
What happens if a building fails to meet hot water safety requirements?
Remedial measures must be taken before the building is approved for occupation.
What is the purpose of Section 3 in Approved Document G?
To ensure that buildings have adequate and hygienic sanitary facilities for occupants.
What are the key requirements for sanitary facilities under Approved Document G?
Sanitary appliances must be properly installed, accessible, and meet hygiene standards.
What is the minimum number of toilets required in a dwelling?
At least one WC must be provided in every dwelling.
What are the requirements for handwashing facilities in buildings?
A basin with a supply of hot and cold water must be provided near every WC.
What is the purpose of providing separate male and female sanitary facilities in public buildings?
To ensure privacy, hygiene, and compliance with accessibility standards.
How should sanitary facilities be positioned in relation to food preparation areas?
They must be separated to prevent contamination and maintain hygiene.
What accessibility standards apply to sanitary facilities?
Facilities must comply with Part M of the Building Regulations to ensure accessibility for disabled users.
What type of ventilation is required for sanitary facilities?
Adequate ventilation must be provided to remove odours and maintain air quality.
Why must sanitary pipework be designed correctly?
To prevent leaks, ensure efficient drainage, and avoid contamination.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with sanitary facility requirements?
The building designer, plumbing contractor, and building control authority.
What documentation must be provided to verify compliance with sanitary facility regulations?
Plumbing installation certificates, accessibility compliance reports, and hygiene assessments.
What happens if a building fails to meet sanitary facility requirements?
Modifications must be made before the building is approved for use.
What is the purpose of Section 4 in Approved Document G?
To ensure that all dwellings and certain non-domestic buildings have appropriate and accessible washing facilities.
What are the key requirements for bathrooms and washing facilities under Approved Document G?
They must be provided in sufficient number, be accessible, and ensure hygiene and safety.
What is the minimum requirement for bathrooms in a dwelling?
Every dwelling must have at least one bathroom containing a bath or shower and a washbasin.
What are the key considerations for designing accessible bathrooms?
They must comply with Part M of the Building Regulations, including step-free access, grab rails, and appropriate layouts.
What is the purpose of anti-scald devices in bathrooms?
To prevent burns by controlling water temperature, particularly in showers and baths.
Why should bathrooms be located near bedrooms?
For convenience and to improve accessibility, particularly for elderly and disabled occupants.
What type of ventilation must be provided for bathrooms?
Either mechanical extract ventilation or natural ventilation through openable windows.
What are the flooring requirements for bathrooms?
Slip-resistant materials should be used to reduce the risk of falls.
What is the minimum recommended space for a bathroom in a dwelling?
It should be large enough to accommodate a bath, basin, and WC with comfortable access.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with bathroom and washing facility requirements?
The building designer, contractor, and building control authority.
What documentation must be provided to verify compliance with bathroom regulations?
Plumbing installation reports, accessibility compliance certificates, and ventilation test results.
What happens if a building fails to meet bathroom and washing facility requirements?
Modifications must be made before the building is approved for use.
What is the purpose of Section 5 in Approved Document G?
To ensure that buildings have suitable food preparation areas with access to clean water and proper sanitation.
What are the key requirements for food preparation areas under Approved Document G?
They must have access to potable water, adequate drainage, and be designed for hygiene and safety.
What is the minimum requirement for potable water in food preparation areas?
A direct supply of wholesome water that meets the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations.
Why is proper drainage important in food preparation areas?
To prevent standing water, contamination, and ensure safe disposal of wastewater.
What materials should be used for surfaces in food preparation areas?
Non-porous, easy-to-clean materials like stainless steel or hygienic-grade plastic.
How should food preparation areas be separated from sanitary facilities?
There must be a clear physical separation to prevent cross-contamination.
What type of ventilation is required for food preparation areas?
Adequate extraction to remove heat, moisture, and cooking fumes, complying with Approved Document F.
What are the requirements for sinks in food preparation areas?
At least one sink with a supply of hot and cold potable water for washing food and utensils.
What measures should be taken to prevent contamination in food preparation areas?
Proper waste disposal, use of splashbacks, and separation of raw and cooked food areas.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with food preparation area requirements?
The building designer, contractor, and environmental health authorities.
What documentation must be provided to verify compliance with food preparation area regulations?
Water quality reports, ventilation test results, and hygiene assessment certificates.
What happens if a building fails to meet food preparation area requirements?
Modifications must be made before the building is approved for use.
What is the purpose of Section 6 in Approved Document G?
To ensure that buildings are designed to minimise water consumption and improve water efficiency.
What is the maximum allowable water consumption per person per day in new dwellings?
125 litres per person per day, or 110 litres per person per day if required by planning conditions.
How is water efficiency calculated for a building?
Using the Water Efficiency Calculator for New Dwellings, which accounts for all water-using appliances.
What are the key methods to improve water efficiency in buildings?
Using water-saving fixtures, rainwater harvesting, and greywater recycling.
What is the purpose of dual-flush toilets?
To reduce water use by providing a choice between a full and a reduced flush.
How can flow restrictors improve water efficiency?
They limit the water flow rate from taps and showers, reducing unnecessary consumption.
What is the recommended maximum flow rate for basin taps in water-efficient buildings?
5 litres per minute to minimise excessive water use.
What is greywater recycling, and how does it help with water efficiency?
It collects and treats wastewater from baths, showers, and sinks for reuse in toilets and irrigation.
What is the benefit of rainwater harvesting?
It reduces reliance on mains water supply by collecting and storing rainwater for non-potable uses.
Who is responsible for ensuring compliance with water efficiency regulations?
The building designer, plumbing contractor, and building control authority.
What documentation must be provided to verify compliance with water efficiency requirements?
Water efficiency calculations, appliance specifications, and compliance certificates.
What happens if a building fails to meet water efficiency requirements?
Modifications must be made to reduce water consumption before building approval is granted.
What is Potable Water?
Water that is safe for human consumption and meets quality standards set by the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations.
What is Greywater Recycling?
A system that collects and treats wastewater from baths, showers, and sinks for reuse in non-potable applications.
What is Rainwater Harvesting?
The collection and storage of rainwater for uses such as irrigation, toilet flushing, and washing.
What is a Dual-Flush Toilet?
A toilet with two flushing options, allowing users to choose a reduced or full flush to save water.
What is a Thermostatic Mixing Valve (TMV)?
A device that blends hot and cold water to a safe temperature to prevent scalding.
What is Legionella?
A type of bacteria that can grow in warm water systems and cause Legionnaires’ disease, a serious respiratory illness.
What is a Flow Restrictor?
A device fitted to taps or showers to limit water flow and improve efficiency.
What is an Air Gap in Plumbing?
A physical gap between a water outlet and a potential source of contamination to prevent backflow.
What is a Water Efficiency Calculator?
A tool used to calculate water consumption in buildings and verify compliance with water efficiency regulations.
What is Backflow Prevention?
A method of stopping contaminated water from flowing back into the potable water supply.
What is BS 6920, and why is it important?
It specifies the suitability of non-metallic materials for use in contact with potable water.
What does BS EN 806 cover?
It provides specifications for drinking water installations inside buildings, including design, installation, and maintenance.
What is the purpose of BS 8558?
It offers guidance on the design and maintenance of hot and cold water services in buildings.
What role does the Water Supply (Water Quality) Regulations play in plumbing systems?
It ensures that all drinking water meets the required safety and quality standards for human consumption.
What does BS EN 1717 regulate?
It specifies the protection of drinking water against contamination from backflow.
How does the IET Wiring Regulations (BS 7671) relate to plumbing systems?
It provides safety guidelines for electrical components used in water heating systems.
What is the significance of Part L of the Building Regulations in water efficiency?
It promotes the efficient use of energy in water heating systems to reduce environmental impact.
Where can official guidance on water supply and efficiency standards be found?
On the UK Government website (www.gov.uk) and industry bodies such as BSI and WRAS.
What is the Building Regulations 2010?
The primary legal framework governing building standards in England, including sanitation and water efficiency.
What is the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999?
Regulations that prevent waste, misuse, and contamination of water in plumbing systems.
What is the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive (EPBD)?
A European directive that promotes energy efficiency, including efficient water heating in buildings.
What is the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974?
Legislation that ensures safe working conditions, including proper sanitation in workplaces.
What is the Clean Air Strategy 2019?
A UK government policy aimed at reducing pollution, including emissions from water heating systems.
What is the UK Government’s Net Zero Strategy?
A plan to reduce carbon emissions, which includes improving water and energy efficiency in buildings.
How does the IET Code of Practice for Indoor Water Quality relate to Approved Document G?
It provides technical guidance on maintaining safe and efficient water systems in buildings.
Where can official documents related to water regulations be found?
On the UK Government website (www.gov.uk) and from professional bodies like WRAS and BSI.
