Anglian Water, the largest water and wastewater company in England and Wales by geographic area, has awarded the management of its third party standpipes to Aquam, a global provider of risk mitigation technologies for water and energy transmission and distribution assets.

At a time when safety and water management has never been more critical, Aquam will provide data driven standpipes in parallel with Calm Network Training, accredited by the Institute of Water, over a three-year period to ensure safe operations. In addition to improving safety and decreasing pipe bursts, the technologically advanced standpipes are also expected to improve illegal water theft, hydrant operation and reduce water discoloration.

The award includes the provision of branded standpipes and bespoke calm network keys to companies and organisations authorised to operate within Anglian Water’s network. Aquam’s Calm Network Training is accredited by the Institute of Water and is designed to educate operators on safe hydrant use, valves and pumps are operated. Research shows that incorrect operation of the network is a major cause of the surge effects that can cause leaks and bursts.

Aquam will provide hydrant and standpipe services to over 1,000 companies operating the utility’s potable water network assets in the north and east of England. The Manchester-headquartered company currently provides standpipe and management services to 12 water companies in England and Wales.

Aquam will also ensure all network operators in the region are aware of regulatory requirements and undertake the company’s e-learning course on safe operation of water hydrants.

Malcolm Holmes, restoration innovation & development manager at Anglian Water commented:

“We are looking forward to working with Aquam, to train existing and new operators, reduce the risk of illegal standpipe use and to continue to provide an uninterrupted water supply to our customers.”

The agreement began on 1 April 2018 and will initially operate for a three-year period.

Tim Bowen, Aquam’s managing director said:

“I’m delighted that we have the opportunity to partner with Anglian Water in this critical area. Aquam brings a focussed approach to standpipe management which greatly benefits the many utilities using the service.”

“We can help tackle illegal use of the network and water theft, improve hydrant operation technique and reduce the number of pipe bursts and water discoloration events. This means much less disruption to customers and communities and a lower risk of regulatory penalties for our utility clients.”