WRAS Certification Explained
Why WRAS Certification Matters for Water Storage Solutions
In the world of water systems, safety and compliance are non-negotiable. Whether you’re sourcing a cold water storage tank, selecting pipework, or installing valves, you’ll often encounter one crucial phrase: WRAS Approved.
But what exactly is WRAS certification? Why does it matter for your project—and what happens if you don’t use certified components?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down what WRAS approval means, how it affects product selection for water systems in the UK and Ireland, and why Tricel’s WRAS-certified water tanks are a trusted solution for contractors, engineers, and specifiers across a range of industries including industrial, residential, commercial and agricultural.
What Is WRAS Certification?
WRAS stands for the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme. It’s a UK-based certification that verifies whether a product or material complies with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 and the equivalent Byelaws in Scotland and Northern Ireland.
In Simple Terms:
A WRAS-approved product has been independently tested and approved to ensure it:
- Prevents contamination of public water supply
- Does not cause waste, misuse, or undue consumption
- Is made from safe, non-toxic materials suitable for contact with drinking water
The WRAS certification applies to any plumbing product or material that comes into contact with wholesome water intended for human consumption.
How Does a Product Become WRAS Approved?
To achieve WRAS approval, a product must pass two key types of tests:
Mechanical & Functional Testing
Verifies that the product is structurally sound, performs its intended function, and complies with water pressure requirements.
Materials Testing
Assesses whether the materials used leach harmful substances into drinking water. This testing is conducted in accordance with BS 6920 standards.
Once certified, the product is listed on the WRAS Product Directory for reference by specifiers, installers, and water authorities.
Why Is WRAS Certification So Important?
1. Legal Compliance
It’s not just a nice-to-have. Under the Water Supply Regulations, it is a legal requirement that all water fittings installed in properties connected to the public water mains must not cause contamination. Using WRAS-approved components is the simplest way to demonstrate compliance.
Failure to comply could lead to:
- Prosecution or enforcement by local water authorities
- Removal of the product from site
- Fines or project delays
2. Protection of Public Health
WRAS certification ensures that no harmful metals, plastics, or chemicals enter the drinking water supply. This is especially critical for:
- Schools and hospitals
- Residential buildings
- Food and beverage facilities
- Hotels and leisure centres
Installing WRAS-certified components helps protect end users from waterborne illnesses and reduces your project’s legal and ethical risk.
3. Credibility and Trust Among Professionals
Many public and commercial tenders in the UK specifically require WRAS-certified products. Whether you’re an M&E contractor, consultant, or architect, specifying WRAS-approved items:
- Speeds up the approval process
- Demonstrates a commitment to safety and standards
- Minimises callbacks and system failures
4. Peace of Mind for Specifiers and Installers
WRAS certification provides assurance that a product:
- Will perform safely under real-world conditions
- Has undergone rigorous independent testing
- Meets the latest water supply regulations
This saves time on site, ensures smoother inspections, and avoids costly rework.
What Types of Products Need WRAS Approval?
If your product or system component comes into contact with the public mains supply or drinking water, WRAS approval is strongly recommended. This includes:
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CATEGORY
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EXAMPLE PRODUCTS
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Water Storage
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GRP tanks, sectional tanks, one-piece tanks
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Pipes & Fittings
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PVC, copper, stainless steel, push-fit connections
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Taps & Showers
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Mixer taps, showerheads, thermostatic valves
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Valves & Controls
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Ball valves, check valves, pressure-reducing valves
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Appliances
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Water heaters, boilers, washing machines
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WRAS Certification & Tricel Water Tanks
At Tricel, we manufacture a full range of WRAS-approved GRP water tanks that are trusted across residential, commercial, and industrial projects.
Why Tricel Tanks Stand Out:
- WRAS Certified for full legal and health compliance
- Available in one-piece, two-piece, or sectional modular formats
- Built with corrosion-resistant GRP for long-term durability
- Fully customisable for site-specific requirements
- Eco-friendly, through energy-efficient production
With fast lead times, detailed installation documentation, and expert technical support, Tricel is the go-to solution for specifiers needing water storage systems that tick every compliance box.
Does WRAS Apply Outside the UK?
While WRAS is a UK-specific scheme, it carries significant credibility internationally. Many projects in Ireland, the EU, the Middle East, and Africa use WRAS-certified products to:
- Meet British standards
- Reassure stakeholders
- Streamline procurement processes
So yes, WRAS adds global value.
Why WRAS Certification Should Never Be Overlooked
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BENEFIT
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HOW IT HELPS
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Legal Compliance (UK Regulations)
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Avoid fines, rework, and delays
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Public Health Protection
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Prevent contamination of potable water
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Confidence for Specifiers & ContractorS
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Speeds up product approvals
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Project Credibility
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Enhances your bid in tenders and procurement stages
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Ready to Source WRAS-Approved Tanks?
Tricel Water offer complete WRAS certification, expert support, and long-term reliability. Contact our technical sales team today to request a quote or learn more about our WRAS-approved solutions.
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