6 CLEAN WATER GUIDE
Water suppliers and experts from the marine industry have formed a group tasked with creating a guide to the safe operation of water facilities in marinas, boatyards, and inland waterways. The group comprises representatives from water companies, British Marine, the RYA, The Yacht Harbour Association, RNLI, and The Canal & River Trust.
Their aim is to ensure that water supplies are safer and more consistent across a wide range of marine operations. It addresses both the quality of water supplied to marinas and boat yards and the risks associated with contaminated water flowing back into the network.
Known as backflow and sometimes caused by boat owners leaving marina hoses dangling in the water, it can lead to contamination of the domestic water mains supply with serious implications to public health. The guide is designed to ensure that the correct protection is in place to stop this happening. Chemical toilet discharge and black water pump out facilities are also covered.
Although aimed primarily at service providers rather than boat owners, it provides guidance and information to ensure that correct standards are maintained. It includes everything from signage to drainage and includes advice on effective winterisation and the correct type of hoses that marinas and yards should be using.
RYA Director of Affairs, Howard Pridding, said: “We welcome the introduction of this Industry Best Practice, which is designed to raise operational standards in the supply of domestic water for recreational boating activity, ensuring consistent practice across the inland and coastal marine industry.”