Ultravalve launches digital RPZ test kit as Water Regs UK updates RPZ guidance
Ultravalve, a specialist supplier of RPZ valves and backflow prevention solutions, has launched a new digital RPZ test kit to support compliance with updated Water Regs UK guidance on the installation and testing of Reduced Pressure Zone RPZ valves. The revised requirements came into force on 1 January 2025 and introduced significant changes for RPZ testers, contractors and facilities managers across the UK.
The launch follows publication of the revised Approved Installation Method, RPZ AIM Issue 3. The updated guidance sets tighter requirements for RPZ testing methods, test equipment and tester competency under the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations in England and Wales and the Water Byelaws in Scotland.
RPZ regulations and potable water protection
“The RPZ portion of the water regulations apply to all premises connected to a mains water supply and are intended to protect potable water from contamination up to fluid risk category of level 4,” explains Scott Warby, from the RPZ Tester team at Ultravalve.
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RPZ valves play a critical role in backflow prevention, protecting drinking water systems from contamination in commercial buildings, industrial process plants and public sector facilities. The revised guidance strengthens the compliance framework around RPZ valve testing and reinforces the importance of accurate pressure differential measurement.
RPZ AIM Issue 3 and new test equipment requirements
According to Ultravalve, one of the most significant changes introduced under RPZ AIM Issue 3 is the introduction of a defined minimum specification for RPZ test equipment. From 1 January 2025, testing using a single tube manometer is no longer acceptable under the updated Water Regs UK guidance.
Moreover, until 1 January 2026, testers may continue to use a U tube manometer but only where testing is carried out in accordance with Regulator Test Code Sheet TCS 1111.13 or clause 9.5.2 of BS EN 12726:2023. All RPZ test equipment must meet the new minimum specification by 1 July 2026.
To be accepted, says Ultravalve, RPZ compliance test reports must be produced using instrumentation capable of accurately measuring pressure differentials between 0.5 kPa and 34 kPa.
“Equipment must be clearly identifiable, fully calibratable and suitable for completing all elements of the periodic compliance test,” says Scott.
Test equipment must also be calibrated at least annually by a UKAS accredited calibration service. Tester personnel are responsible for understanding and applying any calibration corrections to recorded results to ensure regulatory compliance and traceability.
RPZ tester competency and revalidation
The updated Water Regs UK guidance also strengthens requirements around RPZ tester competency. Valve testers are required to revalidate their qualification every five years, typically through reassessment rather than retraining.
Ultravalve also stipulate that only individuals who are fully trained, hold a current recognised qualification and are approved or recognised by the local water undertaker should carry out on site RPZ testing.
“These updates will improve overall standards and ensure accurate, evidence-based measurements and testing are undertaken going forward,” says Jason Hill, Sales Director at Ultravalve, adding, “they also align the UK with established good practice in countries such as Australia and the USA.”
GI-DBT2 digital backflow prevention device test kit
In response to the revised guidance, Ultravalve has introduced the GI-DBT2 digital backflow prevention device test kit. The system has been designed to meet the minimum equipment requirements set out in RPZ AIM Issue 3 and to support contractors and RPZ testers in achieving compliant digital RPZ testing under the 2025 regulations.
Digital RPZ test kits provide enhanced measurement accuracy, improved data recording and clearer traceability compared with traditional analogue manometers. As regulatory scrutiny increases, the move towards defined minimum specifications and digital instrumentation reflects a wider trend in water industry compliance and backflow prevention best practice.
Impact across UK industry sectors
The updated RPZ guidance has implications across a wide range of sectors, including facilities management, water utilities, food and beverage production, pharmaceuticals and general manufacturing. In these environments, RPZ valves form a critical control point within water safety management systems and compliance regimes.
For facilities managers and building services engineers, the changes mean reviewing existing RPZ testing procedures and ensuring that both equipment and personnel meet the updated standards. For contractors and specialist RPZ testers, the transition period to July 2026 provides a defined window to upgrade equipment and ensure full alignment with RPZ AIM Issue 3.
To this end, Ultravalve says it is providing contractors, facilities managers and end users with products and services to help meet the new requirements and maintain compliance with Water Regs UK guidance.
For further information on compliant RPZ valve testing and digital RPZ test kits, visit the Ultravalve RPZ testing page.
