Recycled Water Connections

Transcription

1 Procedure Recycled Water Connections Please note this procedure is mandatory and staff are required to adhere to the content Summary This procedure outlines the minimum requirements that must be met in order to allow recycled water connections for irrigation purposes at Department for Education and Child Development (DECD) schools and preschools in South Australia. It identifies key requirements and responsible parties, and sets forth the process that must be followed for schools and preschools to connect to recycled water. Table 1 - Document details Publication date 9 February 2016 File Number DECD 15/05495 Related legislation Related policies, procedures, guidelines, standards, frameworks Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling, South Australian Recycled Water Guidelines, South Australia s Strategic Plan, Work Health & Safety Act and Regulations 2012, The National Construction Code Volume 3: Plumbing Code of Australia Water Supply Procedure, Energy and Water Management in Schools and Preschools (Guideline) Version 1 Replaces Policy officer (position) Recycled Water use in DECS Schools and Preschools, Aquifer Storage and Recovery Project Officer, Environmental Resources Policy officer (phone) Policy sponsor (position) Executive director responsible (position and office) Assistant Director, Capital Programs Executive Director, Infrastructure Applies to Key words Status Approved by All South Australian DECD schools and preschools Recycled Water, Harvested Stormwater, Aquifer Storage and Recovery, Managed Aquifer Recharge, Wastewater Approved Senior Executive Group Approval date 28 January 2016 Review date 28 January Recycled Water Connections January 2016

2 Table 2 - Revision record Date Version Revision description January New amalgamated procedure approved 2 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

3 Table of Contents Procedure... 1 Table of Contents Title Purpose Scope Procedure Overview Mandatory Requirements Phase 1: Site Feasibility Assessment Phase 2: Project Development Phase 3: Project Implementation and Acquittal Phase 4: Operating Recycled Water Connections Roles and Responsibilities Important Contacts Monitoring, Evaluation and Review Definitions and Abbreviations Supporting Documents Appendices Appendix A: Procedure Phase 1 Detail Appendix B: Procedure Phase 2 Detail Appendix C: Procedure Phase 3 Detail Appendix D: Example Risk Management Plan Appendix E: Water Supply Agreement Clauses Appendix F: Connection Point, Cabinet Design & Backflow Prevention Appendix G: Signage Design Recycled Water Connections January 2016

4 1. Title Recycled Water Connections 2. Purpose This procedure is intended to provide minimum mandatory requirements and guidance for connecting to recycled water at DECD schools and preschools in South Australia. It identifies key requirements and responsible parties, provides planning guidelines and sets forth procedures that must be followed in order to connect a school or preschool to a recycled water supply. Adherence to this procedure will: Promote consistent project management and implementation; Ensure compliance with statutory requirements; Support effective risk management; and Protect the health and safety of students, staff and visitors. 3. Scope Recycled water is water generated from sewage, greywater, stormwater, rainwater, industrial or animal processes and treated to a standard that is appropriate for its intended use. Recycled water can be supplied by either centralised schemes administered by State or Local Government, or by on-site privately managed systems. This procedure applies to all DECD employees, facilities managers, contractors and subcontractors responsible for the connection and management of recycled water supplies at schools and preschools throughout South Australia. It sets forth the process to develop a scope of works to connect a DECD school or preschool to recycled water. 4. Procedure overview This procedure is divided into the following four phases to ensure recycled water connections are effectively implemented and maintained. Mandatory Requirements Purpose: Establish standard expectations for implementation of recycled water connections Phase 1: Site Feasibility Assessment Purpose: Assess viability of potential recycled water connections Phase 2: Project Development Purpose: Identify project goals, risks and strategies; Obtain necessary approvals Phase 3: Project Implementation and Acquittal Purpose: Complete installation, handoff Water Supply Agreement and activation Phase 4: Operating Recycled Water Connections Purpose: Requirements for ongoing system operation Note: The tables provide a summary of the key events in each phase and hyperlink to detailed Appendices which provide further information where required. Not every table section will have a detailed Appendix link as the table already includes all of the required information. 4 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

5 5. Mandatory requirements This procedure for implementing and managing recycled water connections is based on the Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling (AGWR) and the South Australian Recycled Water Guidelines (SARWG). This procedure is divided into four phases to ensure recycled water connections are effectively implemented and maintained. Note: The tables provide a summary of the key events in each phase and hyperlink to detailed Appendices which provide further information where required. Minimum Mandatory Requirements Further to Phases 1-4 of this procedure, the following mandatory requirements apply. The Asset Policy and Environmental Resources (APER) team is responsible for managing and monitoring recycled water connections and must be notified of all recycled water connections. All connections must comply with the AGWR and SARWG where applicable. Recycled water connections must be undertaken through the school or preschool s Facilities Management (FM) provider, e.g. DPTI Facilities Services or Spotless. Recycled wastewater will only be used for irrigation purposes and the supply of toilets with approval from relevant regulatory authorities. Use of recycled wastewater is managed by the Department for Health and Ageing (DHA) contact DHA for further details. Harvested stormwater will only be used for irrigation purposes unless the Water Supplier gains written approval from DHA, in which case toilets may be supplied. Recycled water will not be supplied to any DECD site unless a valid and signed Water Supply Agreement (WSA) exists between the water supplier and the Minister for Education and Child Development or delegate. A recycled water connection will not be activated at a DECD site until project handover has been completed. 5 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

6 APER FM SCHOOL OTHER Hold Point 6. Phase 1: Site feasibility assessment Phase 1: Summary Table Recycled water connections will not proceed to Phase 2 of the procedure until the APER team has completed a feasibility assessment and provided written approval. See Appendix A for additional details. Responsibility Key Event Details A1. Identification of Recycled Water Connection A2. Feasibility Assessment A2.1 Irrigation Assessment A2.2 Water Supply Investigation A2.3 Proposed Recycled Water Connection Point A2.4 Payback Analysis Water suppliers, FMs and/or schools interested in implementing a recycled water connection at a DECD site must contact the APER team to initiate a feasibility assessment. APER will conduct feasibility assessments of all proposed recycled water connections in collaboration with the recycled water supplier and FM. Assessment will include: An assessment of the irrigation system and irrigation requirements must be undertaken so that the recycled water connection will be designed to meet the school s needs. All water supply sources at the school must be identified and evaluated. The connection point analysis will identify: Current location of the recycled water distribution network; Proposed or current location of the recycled water connection point; and, The water quality of the recycled water in the distribution system. APER will model an estimated payback period for implementing the recycled water connection. A5. APER Approval APER must provide written approval confirming a favourable feasibility assessment and authorising the project to proceed to Phase 2. 6 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

7 APER FM SCHOOL OTHER Hold Point 7. Phase 2: Project development Phase 2: Summary Table Recycled water connections will not proceed to Phase 3 of the procedure until APER has reviewed and endorsed documents supplied by the FM, including: A Scope of Works for the delivery of works at identified schools Any necessary approvals, licences and permits from relevant regulatory agencies See Appendix B for additional details. Responsibility Event Details B1. Stakeholder Notification B2. Regulatory Consultation and Compliance APER will liaise with all relevant stakeholders including the school, water supplier and FM provider following the feasibility assessment and approval. APER and the DECD Property Services Team will verify that water suppliers hold all regulatory agency approvals and licences required to supply recycled water prior to implementation of the recycled water connection. The FM will consult with appropriate regulatory agencies to identify and obtain any approvals, permits or licences required to connect to recycled water. B3. Risk Management and DHA Approval B3.1 Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan B3.2 DHA Approval/ Support APER will provide support to the school to undertake risk assessments and obtain DHA approval/support for the use of recycled water. The school will undertake a risk assessment and develop a Risk Management Plan (RMP) to ensure site specific conditions are captured. The risk assessment must cover operations and maintenance activities associated with the recycled water connection and be performed using the DECD Risk Assessment Matrix. The RMP must be included with the WSA. The school must obtain a DHA Letter of Approval if the site will be supplied with recycled wastewater. The water supplier must obtain A DHA Letter of Support if the site will be supplied with harvested stormwater. The letter must include: An assessment of risks and risk levels associated with the harvested stormwater supply; Control measures to mitigate identified risks; and, 7 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

8 B4. Water Supply Agreement Work Health and Safety B5. Project Scope of Works B5.1 Initial Crossconnection Audit and Backflow Device Inspection B5.2 Hydraulic Assessment An evaluation of compliance of the harvested stormwater supply with the AGWR Stormwater Harvesting and Reuse (Phase 2). APER and DECD Property Services will negotiate a site-specific WSA with the water supplier and other stakeholders for all DECD recycled water connections. All WSAs must include the clauses listed in Appendix E: Water Supply Agreement Clauses. For more information, contact the DECD Property Services team. The water supplier must conduct annual water quality testing with samples taken from the distribution line supplying recycled water to schools or preschools: The water supplier must test for E. coli as a minimum. The water supplier must provide annual water quality testing results to APER. The water supplier must adhere to any conditions attached to regulatory agency approvals or licences throughout the term of the WSA. The FM, school and APER must ensure that Work Health and Safety (WHS) for staff and contractors that work with recycled water system is addressed, including: A copy of this procedure will be provided to staff and contractors that work with or maintain services supplied by recycled water. Training will be provided to ensure that staff and contractors comply with work health and safety guidelines for working with recycled water. Specifically: Recycled water must not be used for drinking purposes Staff and contractors must not eat or drink while working with recycled water. Staff and contractors must wash their hands with soap and mains water after working with recycled water. Staff and contractors must clean and dress wounds obtained while working with recycled water with antiseptic and appropriate medical dressing. The FM will develop a Scope of Works that addresses the following minimum requirements The FM will engage an appropriately licensed plumbing contractor to conduct an initial cross-connection audit and inspection of backflow prevention devices of the site s water distribution system prior to finalising the recycled water connection design The FM must arrange for a hydraulic assessment of the current irrigation water supply prior to finalising the recycled water connection design. 8 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

9 B5.3 Plumbing Control Design Marking of Pipework and Fittings Signage The FM will use the connection cabinet design in Appendix F: Connection Point, Cabinet Design & Backflow Prevention as a base design for all recycled water connections. The FM must contact APER and consult OTR for assistance in altering the connection cabinet design. Refer to Phase 3 - C1. Engage Contractors for further information regarding reporting responsibilities with the OTR. The FM must ensure the recycled water connection design incorporates: A backup water supply (such as mains water) for times when recycled water may not be available. Approved cross-connection controls to eliminate risk of contamination of the drinking water supply or the mains water supply with recycled water. Approved backflow prevention devices are installed in accordance with AS/NZS :2003. Approved backflow prevention devices must be installed as a containment valve adjacent to all mains water meters/inlets at the school or preschool regardless of whether the supply is independent from the irrigation system. All backflow prevention devices must be installed above ground in a lockable enclosure with a concrete base slab. The FM will ensure all exposed pipework and fittings connected to the new recycled water supply are lilac in colour in order to emphasise recycled water is in use and to reduce the risk of cross-connections being made in the future. The FM will ensure signage stating IRRIGATED USING RECYCLED WATER DO NOT DRINK FROM SPRINKLERS or similar (see Appendix G: Signage Design) is installed and meets the following requirements: Signs are located at the main entrances and public access points to ovals or other areas irrigated with recycled water; Signs are a minimum of 2000mm above ground level to reduce the likelihood of the sign being vandalised; Signs are fixed on existing perimeter fences, or installed on a signpost; To reduce the risk of vandalism, signposts must have concrete footings suitable for a school environment. A 450mm x 600mm sign on a signpost in poor soil should allow for a 300mm diameter x 450mm deep concrete footing; Allow for approximately 6-8 signs per school. Signs must be posted on the wall above any toilets supplied with recycled water stating RECYCLED WATER NOT SUITABLE FOR DRINKING or similar. The school will be responsible for maintaining and replacing all signs associated with the recycled water connection. 9 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

10 Final Crossconnection Audit and Backflow Device Inspection As Constructed Drawings and Details APER Endorsement The FM will engage an appropriately licensed plumbing contractor to conduct a final cross-connection audit and inspection of backflow prevention devices of the DECD site s distribution system following installation of the recycled water connection. Inspection will: Verify that no cross-connections are present and backflow prevention devices are installed correctly at all meters/inlets. The FM will maintain records of Certificates of Compliance for the final cross-connection audit and backflow prevention device inspection. Refer to Phase 3 - C1. Engage Contractors for further information. The FM will obtain and supply APER with As Constructed Drawings and Details for the recycled water connection that must include: Plans showing the location of the recycled water connection point, new pipework and location of signage; Photos detailing the irrigation cabinet and installed infrastructure; All information regarding cross connection audits and compliance; Any alterations to the original project scope; The FM must supply APER with required documents and await endorsement prior to proceeding to Phase 3 of this procedure. Documents for endorsement include: A draft Scope of Works; Any necessary approvals, licences and permits from relevant regulatory agencies. APER will review documents supplied by the FM prior to providing written endorsement of the project to continue to Phase 3. APER may request additional information or visit the site in order to make an informed endorsement decision. 10 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

11 APER FM SCHOOL OTHER Hold Point 8. Phase 3: Project implementation and acquittal Phase 3: Summary Table Recycled water connections will not be activated until the APER team has reviewed the completed works/documentation and provided written approval for activation. See Appendix C for additional details. Responsibility Event Details C1. Engage Contractors The FM will seek and engage contractors to complete project works, ensuring that all plumbing controls are installed by a qualified plumber as required under AS/NZS3500.1:2003 to the agreed Scope of Works. The FM must provide a copy of this procedure to the Contractors with the Scope of Works. C2. Project Signoff The FM must signoff on completion of the system and provide relevant documentation to APER, including: Final cross-connection audit Certificate of Compliance; Backflow prevention device inspection Certificate of Compliance; Any necessary approvals, licences or permits from relevant regulatory agencies; As Constructed Drawings and Details of the project. C3. Preventative Maintenance C4. Final Water Supply Agreement The FM must update the DECD site s preventative maintenance schedule to include cross-connection audits and backflow prevention device inspections in compliance with the Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure (DPTI) Technical Data Schedule (TDS): DPTI TDS PL58: Potable/Non-potable Water Crossconnection Audit; DPTI TDS PL32: Backflow Prevention Devices. APER must ensure that a valid and signed WSA is obtained prior to recycled water system handover and the supply of recycled water. 11 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

12 C5. APER Final Approval APER will not authorise activation of the recycled water connection until: All requirements of the Recycled Water Procedure have been met; A valid and signed WSA is in place; Recycled water system maintenance is included in the DECD site s preventive maintenance schedule; and, APER meets with the DECD site administrators to officially handover the WSA. 12 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

13 9. Phase 4: Operating recycled water connections Key Event Phase 4: Summary Table Details / Responsibility Breakdown Maintenance Upgrades and Extensions Irrigation Management The school will be responsible for all breakdown maintenance associated with DECD owned recycled water infrastructure installed on DECD property including: Regular maintenance of the irrigation system to ensure there are no leaks Verification that signage is not damaged or vandalised. Replacement of signs will be a school responsibility unless stipulated otherwise in the WSA. The school will raise breakdown maintenance as per standard operating procedures. The school must notify the FM, APER and the water supplier in the event of a major breakdown, fault or failure at the school, such as a major leak, burst pipe or loss of supply so that an appropriate response can be coordinated between stakeholders. The school will not interfere with the main irrigation connection cabinet (installed between the boundary and the school s irrigation system) other than to identify where a breakdown has occurred and to shut off supply. The water supplier will be responsible for monitoring and maintaining water supplier owned infrastructure located on DECD property as identified in the WSA. The school will consult with the FM prior to altering or expanding the irrigation system or recycled water infrastructure. The FM/school will provide written notification to APER and the water supplier prior to altering or expanding the irrigation system or recycled water infrastructure. APER will work with the water supplier to ensure that proposals to alter or expand irrigation systems or infrastructure supplied by recycled water meet the requirements of the AGWR and SARWG. The school will only irrigate with recycled water between the hours of 8pm and 6am in areas where restricted access is required as a treatment or control for recycled water as defined in the AGWR. Exception: Schools and preschools with sub-surface irrigation systems may irrigate outside of the hours 8pm to 6am as outlined in the WSA. The school will not operate spray irrigation systems when high winds have been forecast. The school will replace sprinkler heads with lilac coloured sprinklers as part of ongoing maintenance so that the use of recycled water for irrigation is highlighted. The school will monitor irrigation system performance and implement water efficient irrigation schedules to avoid over-irrigation, including reduction of surface runoff and water pooling on the soil surface. 13 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

14 10. Roles and responsibilities Role Site Leaders Facilities Managers (FM) DECD Asset Policy & Environmental Resources (APER) DECD Property Services Department of Health and Ageing (DHA) Office of the Technical Regulator (OTR) Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) Authority/responsibility for In consultation with the FM, site leaders are responsible for ensuring their DECD site complies with this procedure when connecting or connected to recycled water. The FM is responsible for implementation of this procedure for all recycled water connections and to notify DECD if non-compliance is identified. The FM provider occupies a position uniquely suited to coordinate on-site resources and liaise with school administrators, water suppliers, DECD and other government agencies. APER is responsible for monitoring existing recycled water connections, providing oversight for recycled water connections at DECD sites and ensuring schools and preschools comply with this procedure. Property Services are responsible for the management and implementation of Water Supply Agreements for recycled water connections. DHA is responsible for assessing recycled water connections for schools and providing a Letter of Approval or Letter of Support if the connection and established controls do not pose a risk to public health. OTR regulates plumbing, including cross-connection audits, backflow prevention device inspections and Certificates of Compliance. OTR must be consulted regarding plumbing controls in recycled water connections. EPA licences water treatment plants, discharge of treated wastewater and stormwater into aquifers and should be consulted to ensure that site-specific environmental issues are addressed. DEWNR is responsible for implementation of South Australia s water security plan, Water for Good. It may be necessary to consult DEWNR in order to assess stormwater collection schemes to identify any additional design or permitting requirements. Note: Designated agencies and personnel are only responsible for compliance with obligations or actions as specified under the terms of this procedure. 11. Important contacts Organisation Address Phone Electronic DECD Asset Policy & Environmenta l Resources (APER) DECD Property Services Asset Policy & Environmental Resources Lv. 11, 31 Flinders Street, Adelaide SA 5000 DECD Property Services Lv. 11, 31 Flinders St, Adelaide SA E. DECD.policycomms@sa.gov.au E. DECD.asc@sa.gov.au 14 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

15 SA Water Department of Health and Ageing (DHA), Water Quality Unit Office of the Technical Regulator (OTR) Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources (DEWNR) GPO Box 1751 Adelaide SA 5001 Water Quality, Public Health Services SA Health, Government of South Australia PO Box 6 Rundle Mall, Adelaide SA 5000 Office of the Technical Regulator GPO Box 320, Adelaide SA 5001 GPO Box 2607 Adelaide SA 5001 GPO Box 1047 Adelaide SA Recycled Water Connections January E. businesstechnicalsupport@sawater.com.au W E. waterquality@health.sa.gov.au W E. otr.plumbenquiries@sa.gov.au Monitoring, evaluation and review W. E. epainfo@sa.gov.au W W. This procedure will be reviewed at least every three (3) years by the APER team in consultation with the DHA, DPTI and DECD Property Services. Reviews may also be undertaken at other times if there has been a change in legislation, Australian Standards or DECD specifications. DECD sites with recycled water connections will be periodically audited by APER for any problems related to the connection. Problems with recycled water connections identified through audits will be assessed based on how the problem was discovered, how it was mitigated, effectiveness of mitigation and whether this procedure provided sufficient guidance to address the problem. Information obtained through recycled water connection audits will be used to guide periodic review of this procedure. Audits APER will audit a minimum of 5 schools with recycled water connections on an annual basis in accordance with an audit schedule. Audits will confirm compliance with the recycled water procedure and identify opportunities for improvement. The number of DECD sites audited and the audit frequency may be varied based on audit outcomes. Schools will be given a minimum of 5 working days notice prior to an audit being conducted. Audits may include, but not be limited to a review of: WSA: Site leaders demonstrated knowledge of school responsibilities under the WSA and recycled water procedure; Risk mitigation: Measures as defined in the RMP are in place; Relevant Staff: Demonstrate knowledge of work health and safety requirements; Water Consumption Analysis: Actual Consumption vs. Expected Consumption based on IPOS practices; Cross-connection Audits and Backflow Prevention Device Inspections: Records of Certificates of Compliance are available (either through the FM or at the school); Signage: Appropriate signs are posted, visible and secure; Ongoing Maintenance: Sprinklers and other hardware are being replaced with lilac coloured replacement parts.

16 13. Definitions and abbreviations Term APER ASR DECD, the department DHA DEWNR DPTI EPA FM Harvested Stormwater MAR OTR Recycled Wastewater Recycled Water RMP RPZ Stakeholder Stormwater TDS Wastewater Water Supplier Will or must Meaning Asset Policy and Environmental Resources Aquifer Storage and Recovery Department for Education and Child Development Department for Health and Ageing Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure Environment Protection Authority Facilities Manager as per the Facilities Management Contract (FMC) Refers to schemes which collect stormwater for storage and reuse from an external water supplier, including ASR, MAR, stormwater collection dams and storage tanks Managed Aquifer Recharge Office of the Technical Regulator Wastewater that has been treated to remove solids and other contaminants, and disinfected to meet at least minimum standards for use in irrigation and toilets Recycled wastewater or harvested stormwater (Refer AGWR) Risk Management Plan Reduced Pressure Zone valve Individual or organisation involved in water supply and management at DECD sites Rain from urban stormwater systems, roofs, roads, footpaths and other surfaces Technical Data Sheets (Preventative Maintenance) Sewage or effluent Organisation providing recycled water to the DECD site Use of these words indicates that the process or statement is a legislative, Australian Standards or mandatory DECD requirement. 16 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

17 14. Supporting documents Australian Guidelines for Water Recycling (AGWR) DHA Wastewater Management DPTI Plan Room Irrigating with recycled water: information guide for applicants pdf The National Construction Code Volume 3: Plumbing Code of Australia On-site Wastewater Systems Code ic+health/water+quality/wastewater/disposing+of+wastewater+onsite/disposing+of+wastewater+ons ite Recycled water systems: information guide for applicants SA Water Irrigated Public Open Space data/assets/pdf_file/0020/40493/code_of_practice_irrigated_public_o pen_space_201015_standard.pdf South Australian Public Health (Wastewater) Regulations STEWATER)%20REGULATIONS%202013/CURRENT/ UN.PDF South Australian Recycled Water Guidelines (SARWG) ic+health/water+quality/ Technical Data Schedule (TDS) Appendices Appendix A: Procedure Phase 1 Detail Appendix B: Procedure Phase 2 Detail Appendix C: Procedure Phase 3 Detail Appendix D: Example Risk Management Plan Appendix E: Water Supply Agreement Clauses Appendix F: Connection Point, Cabinet Design & Backflow Prevention Appendix G: Signage Design 17 Recycled Water Connections January 2016

18 Appendix A: Procedure Phase 1 Detail A1. Identification of Recycled Water Connection This procedure is initiated when a possible recycled water supply is identified at a DECD site. Water suppliers, FMs or schools interested in implementing a recycled water connection at a DECD site must contact APER at: A2. Feasibility Assessment Asset Policy & Environmental Resources Lv. 11, 31 Flinders Street, Adelaide SA 5000 P E. DECD.policycomms@sa.gov.au Following identification of a recycled water supply at a DECD site, APER will initiate a recycled water connection feasibility assessment in collaboration with relevant water suppliers and the FM. The assessment will ensure that the connection is ecologically, economically and socially viable, and will include the following: A2.1 Irrigation Assessment Total Turfed Area: Identify the square metres (m 2 ) of turf irrigated at the school. Irrigation System Plan: Source a drawing or plan of the irrigation system layout. Schools and preschools are responsible for maintaining irrigation systems and should have a plan available. The Department of Planning, Transport and Infrastructure (DPTI) Plan Room may also have irrigation plans for the school which can be investigated at: Total Consumption Requirements: Investigate current consumption (kl) for irrigation purposes. Current practices should be compared to best practices as per SA Water s Irrigated Public Open Space (IPOS) Code of Practice available at: Irrigation systems should be running at peak efficiency prior to connecting to recycled water. If a large discrepancy is identified between the school s consumption and IPOS calculations, the school s irrigation system should be investigated for leaks and faulty equipment. Irrigation Schedule: Identify the existing irrigation schedule. Where possible while maintaining fitfor-purpose turf conditions, the frequency and run-time of irrigation should be reduced. In most cases recycled water will only be available on a schedule determined by the recycled water supplier. DECD will negotiate the recycled water supply schedule with the water supplier and the school as part of the WSA. Irrigation & Maintenance Costs: Confirm the existing costs to operate the irrigation system, including water supplier charges and maintenance costs. Estimate costs once recycled water has been connected, including any Local Government charges and increased maintenance costs for backflow prevention and cross connection audits. A2.2 Water Supply Investigation All water supply sources at the school must be identified and evaluated. The most likely water supply sources at schools and the required investigations are outlined below: 18 Appendix A: Procedure Phase 1 Detail January 2016

19 Primary Source: Mains (Potable) Water: The majority of schools are supplied mains water by SA Water. All SA Water meters must be located prior to proceeding with the recycled water investigation. The APER team will notify SA Water for all DECD sites with proposed recycled water connections. Alternative Water Sources: Schools may be supplied by alternative water sources which will require further investigations. Alternative water sources may include: Bores: The age and condition of the bore, capacity to meet irrigation requirements and impacts on sustainable use of associated aquifer/subsurface water supplies should be investigated. If the bore is in poor condition, a life cycle analysis should be conducted to evaluate replacing the bore compared to connecting to recycled water. Wastewater Management Systems: Most wastewater management systems will require a back-up water supply in order to provide enough water for irrigation. Where a wastewater management system is supplying treated wastewater for irrigation, the age, condition, capacity and expected lifetime of the system should be investigated. A recycled water connection may be viable if sufficient quantities of recycled water are required to back-up the wastewater management system. Rainwater Storage Tanks: Where a school has a rainwater storage tank for irrigation purposes, investigate the capacity of the system and ensure there are no cross-connections with other water services at the school, such as toilet flushing or other non-drinking water purposes. A2.3 Proposed Recycled Water Connection Point Recycled water distribution systems may not run directly past schools. A connection point analysis will identify: Current location of the recycled water distribution network; Proposed or current location of the recycled water connection point; and, Water quality of the recycled water in the distribution system. If the recycled water distribution network and proposed connection point are located a significant distance from the school s supply point, increased connection costs may result in connection of recycled water being unviable. A2.4 Payback Analysis Information obtained during the feasibility assessment will be used to calculate an estimated payback period for the recycled water connection. The general equation for the payback analysis will be: (Cost of construction) / (Estimated savings per annum) = Payback period Factors used to determine the cost of construction and estimated savings may vary based on sitespecific considerations. In general, payback analyses will be evaluated using the following scale: Payback period < 7 years Payback period > 7 years but < 10 years Payback period > 10 years A2.5 APER Approval 19 Appendix A: Procedure Phase 1 Detail January 2016 Favourable Further analysis required Unfavourable APER will provide written approval to DECD sites that receive a favourable feasibility analysis authorising continuation to Phase 2 of this procedure. If further analysis is required, APER will assess additional factors that may affect the viability of connecting to recycled water. Unfavourable assessments will not be endorsed to proceed by APER unless there are extenuating circumstances. If conditions change in the future, a new feasibility assessment may be conducted for the site.

20 Appendix B: Procedure Phase 2 Detail B1. Stakeholder Notification APER will notify relevant stakeholders following a favourable feasibility assessment and organise an initial meeting to begin development of the recycled water connection project plan. APER will review this procedure with stakeholders, answer questions and provide guidance for developing the project. B2. Regulatory Consultation and Compliance DECD will verify that the water supplier holds all necessary approvals, permits and licences necessary to supply recycled water. DECD will consult with the water supplier and relevant regulatory agencies to verify that: The water supplier has obtained DHA approval to supply recycled water; Water quality testing in the distribution line to be connected to the DECD site indicates that the recycled water is fit for purpose; The water supplier has obtained any required EPA permits or licences to operate a wastewater treatment plant or discharge stormwater into aquifers; The water supplier has obtained any required DEWNR permits or licences to drain or discharge water into an aquifer. The water supplier has obtained any required Essential Services Commission of South Australia (ESCOSA) licences for the supply of water. Consultation with regulatory agencies from an early date will ensure that recycled water connections meet minimum public health and environmental protection requirements. The FM is responsible for ensuring that the DECD site meets all regulatory requirements for connecting to and using recycled water. Regulatory requirements may vary depending on site-specific design considerations, recycled water source and the intended use of recycled water. At a minimum consultation will be sought with: The Department for Health and Ageing (DHA) See B3. Risk Management and DHA Approval for more information. The Office of the Technical Regulator (OTR) OTR is responsible for the regulation of plumbing and must be consulted in order to: Obtain approval for the recycled water connection cabinet; and, Conduct inspections of new/altered plumbing installations to ensure all work complies with relevant standards. For more detail regarding specific responsibilities of plumbing contractors, see C1. Engage Contractors. The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) EPA licences water treatment plants, discharge of treated wastewater and stormwater into aquifers and oversees the Environment Protection Act 1993 and the Environment Protection (Water Quality) Policy These documents set out requirements for suppliers and users of recycled water specific to individual recycled water treatment and supply systems. EPA should be consulted to identify any additional requirements specified in the water supplier s Environment Improvement Plan or Wastewater Irrigation Management Plan. B3. Risk Management and DHA Approval The DHA approval process requires development of a recycled wastewater RMP. Risks will vary from site to site and may include risks to human health, the environment, project implementation and operation of the recycled water connection. In consultation with DHA and other relevant agencies, APER will provide support to schools to assess risks and develop an appropriate RMP. 20 Appendix B: Procedure Phase 2 Detail January 2016

21 B3.1 Risk Assessment and Risk Management Plan Conducting a risk assessment will ensure that potential risks, their likelihood of occurrence, severity of impacts and methods for mitigation are adequately identified in the RMP. Section 2 of the AGWR establishes a recycled water quality management framework to guide RMP development. A site-specific RMP is required for all DECD recycled water connections in order to obtain DHA approval. Information requirements will vary from site to site. An example RMP for a recycled water connection may be found in Appendix D: Example Risk Management Plan. Section 6 of the SARWG provides additional guidance for obtaining DHA approval, including RMP development: Recycled water systems: information guide for applicants Irrigation with recycled water: information guide for applicants At a minimum, RMPs must include sections addressing: Commitment to Responsible Use and Management of Recycled Water Quality Assessment of the Recycled Water System Preventative Measures to Mitigate Risks for Recycled Water Use Operational and Maintenance Procedures and Process Control Management of Incidents and Emergencies B3.2 DHA Approval/Support DHA is responsible for undertaking public health risk assessments and establishing that the treatment, method of application and overall use of recycled water does not create a public health risk. DHA must be provided with a preliminary plan and concept report as well as a site-specific RMP prior to approval or support being granted. The recycled water supply source influences the process of connecting to recycled water. Recycled Wastewater For DECD sites seeking a recycled wastewater connection, the school must obtain a DHA Letter of Approval for the recycled water connection based on a DHA assessment of the recycled wastewater scheme. Harvested Stormwater For DECD sites seeking a recycled water connection supplied by harvested stormwater, the water supplier must obtain a DHA Letter of Support for the recycled water connection based on a DHA assessment of the harvested stormwater scheme. On-site Wastewater Treatment Systems Development of new on-site wastewater treatment systems for the supply of recycled water is beyond the scope of this procedure. DECD sites seeking to construct a new on-site wastewater treatment system should contact APER for further guidance. To incorporate an existing on-site wastewater treatment system into a new recycled water connection, the FM must provide appropriate documentation to APER. Documents include: As built diagrams for the on-site wastewater treatment system; Cross-connection audit and backflow prevention device inspection Certificates of Compliance; An estimate of the system s capacity; and, Depending on the size of the system, either a Local Government or a DHA Letter of Approval to use recycled wastewater. See DHA Wastewater Management for further information. APER will review supplied documents and verify that the on-site wastewater treatment system meets all requirements of the South Australian Public Health (Wastewater) Regulations 2013 and On-site Wastewater Systems Code. B4. Water Supply Agreement A WSA sets out the roles and responsibilities of recycled water connection stakeholders in order to ensure that the supply of recycled water poses no significant risk to human health, is fit for purpose, used properly, and that any potential risks associated with water contamination are effectively mitigated. 21 Appendix B: Procedure Phase 2 Detail January 2016

22 DECD will negotiate a WSA between the water supplier, the DECD site and the Minister for Education and Child Development. All WSAs for DECD sites must include the required clauses outlined in Appendix E: Water Supply Agreement Clauses. The DECD Property Services team will provide guidance regarding required clauses throughout development of the WSA. B5. Project Scope of Works The scope of the recycled water connection will vary depending on site-specific conditions at the school. However, several key issues must be assessed in order to develop an effective scope of works, including: B5.1 Initial Cross-connection Audit and Backflow Device Inspection Further to the initial A2.2 Water Supply Investigation, an initial cross-connection audit and backflow device inspection must be undertaken. Plumbing control problems identified must be addressed in the scope of works to ensure the recycled water connection will not result in contamination of the mains water supply. The FM will: Engage an appropriately licensed plumbing contractor to conduct a cross-connection audit and inspection of backflow prevention devices at the DECD site. See B2. Regulatory Consultation and Compliance and C1. Engage Contractors for more information. B5.2 Hydraulic Assessment Hydraulic assessment of the existing water supply will identify any existing operational problems. The recycled water connection must be designed so that it will not impair operation of the school s irrigation system and to ensure the backup mains supply will be sufficient. The FM will engage a qualified consultant to assess: Pressure and flow: Identify any pressure and flow concerns and if there is an existing requirement for pre-fill irrigation tanks. Backflow Prevention Devices: Backflow prevention devices may reduce pressure and flow from the mains water supply. Where mains water pressure or flow issues already exist, the mains water may not be capable of providing a backup supply to the recycled water. In these cases, pressure and flow issues should be investigated and addressed as part of the connection cabinet design: Irrigation Requirements: Confirm the pressure and flows requirements for satisfactory operation of the school s irrigation system. Identify the existing irrigation scheduling requirements. Pre-fill Irrigation Tanks: Conduct an evaluation of the pressure and flow from the mains water if a pre-fill irrigation tank is present. In some cases, tanks may no longer be necessary if mains water pressure and flow have improved since the tank was installed. Tanks can increase operational costs as a result of additional maintenance requirements and higher electricity costs to run the irrigation pump. B5.3 Plumbing Control Design The design and installation of plumbing controls should be undertaken in consultation with OTR. Appendix F: Connection Point, Cabinet Design & Backflow Prevention provides a generic DECD connection cabinet design to be used as a base design for all recycled water connections in order to maintain separation of water supplies. Prior to activation of a recycled water connection, new and altered plumbing works must be inspected by OTR. Connection Cabinet The DECD connection cabinet design includes installation of RPZ valves as a backflow prevention device. However, the connection cabinet design and installation may be altered in order to allow alternative backflow prevention devices depending on site-specific requirements. Where pressure and flow have been identified as potential issues for backup supply as described in B5.2 Hydraulic Assessment, APER and OTR must be contacted for assistance in altering the connection cabinet design. 22 Appendix B: Procedure Phase 2 Detail January 2016

23 Backflow Prevention Backflow prevention devices are required to ensure that the mains water and school water supply is not contaminated with recycled water. Approved backflow prevention devices include Reduced Pressure Zone (RPZ) valves, double check valves and registered air gaps in pre-fill irrigation tanks. To reduce the risk of tampering or accidental damage, all backflow prevention devices must be installed above ground in a lockable enclosure with a concrete base slab. Backflow prevention devices must be installed by qualified plumbers. 23 Appendix B: Procedure Phase 2 Detail January 2016

24 Appendix C: Procedure Phase 3 Detail C1. Engage Contractors The FM will be responsible for arranging engagement of appropriately experienced and qualified personnel and contractors to undertake work under this procedure. The FM must ensure that plumbers contracted to complete the recycled water connection are qualified as required under AS/NZS3500.1:2003. The FM will liaise with the plumbing contractor to ensure that all required plumbing work is completed in compliance with requirements, and to obtain Certificates of Compliance. The OTR requires that plumbing contractors carrying out irrigation work on recycled water services in South Australia: Book all inspections of new/altered in-ground installations with the OTR on or on line using by 3:00 pm on the day prior to the inspection; Book a cross-connection/separation test and verification audit with the water supplier, which may be verified at Install and test backflow prevention devices to the degree of hazard at the drinking water meter and at any interconnection with recycled water and drinking water and submit a Commission, Inspection and Maintenance Report ( data/assets/pdf_file/0014/20822/otr-backflow- Prevention-Device-Form_Apr-2014-editable.pdf) to otr.plumbbackflow@sa.gov.au within 14 days of completion of work; and, Forward a Certificate of Compliance to the owner of the property and the OTR. C2. Project Signoff The FM is responsible for reviewing completed work and signing off on completion of the recycled water connection. The FM will be responsible for providing APER with relevant documentation including Certificates of Compliance for the final plumbing control inspections, any approvals, licences or permits required based on site-specific considerations and As Constructed Drawings and Details of the connection. C3. Preventative Maintenance The FM is responsible for updating the preventative maintenance schedule to include cross-connection audits and backflow prevention device inspections. Preventative maintenance audits and inspections must comply with all relevant regulatory requirements. C4. Final Water Supply Agreement APER and the DECD Property Services Team will ensure that a valid and signed WSA is obtained prior to activation of the recycled water connection. In addition to the required clauses found in Appendix E: Water Supply Agreement Clauses, the final WSA will address water supplier obligations for supplying recycled water as well as site-specific operational conditions for using recycled water. C5. APER Final Approval Recycled water connection projects at DECD sites must be approved by APER before the recycled water connection may be activated and the project finalised. Prior to granting approval, APER will review documents supplied by the FM and may request additional information or conduct site visits in order to make an informed approval decision. The project will be finalised when APER meets with school administrators to handover the WSA, explain operating and maintenance requirements and grant approval to activate the recycled water connection. 24 Appendix C: Procedure Phase 3 Detail January 2016