For businesses working in infrastructure, construction, or utilities, mains commissioning isn’t just another box to tick — it’s a smart, strategic move. Done right, it ensures safety, compliance, and peace of mind, not just for regulators, but for clients, end users, and your own reputation.
So, what exactly is mains commissioning?
In short, it’s the process of checking that new or altered water mains are ready for use — safely and hygienically. That includes pressure testing, flushing, disinfecting, and proving that everything’s up to standard before connecting to the main water network. At Merit Skills, our Mains Commissioning (WS 8) course is designed to give your team the skills and confidence to get it right the first time. The course covers hydrostatic pressure testing (to BS EN 805/IGN 4-01-03), proper cleaning and disinfection methods, and how to measure and interpret chlorine residuals accurately.
Why commissioning matters for your business
Whether you’re laying new mains or modifying existing ones, commissioning brings clear benefits across the board:
Meet Regulations with Confidence Water hygiene regulations are strict — and for good reason. Commissioning ensures your work meets required standards like BS EN 805 and TGN 2. That means fewer delays getting your mains adopted by water authorities and fewer headaches down the line.
Avoid Expensive Mistakes Leaks, contamination, or pressure issues that go undetected can lead to serious problems after handover. Commissioning helps you catch these issues early — before they turn into costly repairs or reputational damage.
Get It Right First Time By confirming things like pipe pressure, chlorine levels, and overall system integrity, you’re delivering a network that’s ready to perform from day one. That means fewer callbacks, less rework, and smoother project close-outs.
Build Trust with Stakeholders Detailed testing, digital records, clear results, and full traceability all help to reassure clients, water companies, insurers, and auditors. A well-commissioned main speaks volumes about your professionalism.
Investing in Training That Pays Off
Merit Skills’ two-day Mains Commissioning course is designed with frontline teams and supervisors in mind. It’s hands-on, practical, and focused on real-world application. Participants leave with a solid understanding of both the legal responsibilities and the technical know-how needed on site.
Having trained, competent staff means you can:
- Deliver faster, compliant connections
- Avoid unnecessary delays or penalties
- Show you meet standards for schemes like WIRS (Water Industry Registration Scheme)
Why It’s Worth It?
For developers, utilities contractors, and operators, a strong approach to commissioning doesn’t just reduce risk — it adds real business value. With water industry standards becoming more rigorous, being proactive about training and compliance can set you apart. Need a tailored course for your team?
Merit Skills offers flexible delivery and bespoke training to suit your operation. Because when it comes to something as essential as clean, safe water — there’s no room for guesswork.