Pipework, valves and associated equipment in dams (C789)

The average age of UK reservoirs is around 125 years old and this also generally applies to their pipework systems that are critical to the safe operation of a dam. Pipework systems in dams is a collective term for pipes, valves, gates and associated equipment, along with fittings, joints, jointing materials, supports, restraints and drainage pipework. The failure of such elements to operate properly, whether routinely or in an emergency, can have severe operational or safety consequences.

This publication is an update, review and extension of CIRIA R170. It is of paramount importance to dam safety in existing assets, as it draws on a further 20 years’ experience of good practices and incidents when compared with the former guide, along with challenges that have been overcome.

This guide is concerned with existing dams and is not intended as a design guide for new assets, although much of the information is relevant. It is intended for use across the UK dams’ portfolio, giving consistent guidance to the reader. It includes typical pipework systems, possible causes and modes of failure, advice and guidelines for the operation, maintenance, monitoring, risk assessment and management, condition assessment techniques, risk control measures for rehabilitation and abandonment, design considerations and implementation of any works related to pipework systems.