Sewers For Adoption: - A Design and Construction Guide For Developers - Small Developments Version - September 2013

Sewers for Adoption
- A Design and Construction Guide for Developers Small

Developments Version September 2013
Taken from the Seventh edition
Published by WRc plc, Frankland Road, Blagrove, Swindon,

Wiltshire, SN5 8YF, on behalf of Water UK
Copyright
The contents of this document are subject to copyright and all rights are reserved. No part of
this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any form or
by any means electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior
written consent of the copyright owner.
This document has been produced by WRc plc.
August 2012 Water UK/WRc plc
Feedback Arrangements:
Technical queries should be referred to the Technical Secretaries - Sewers for Adoption,
WRc plc, Frankland Road, Blagrove, Swindon, Wiltshire, SN5 8YF.
Tel:
01793 865105/865117
Fax: 01793 865001
FOREWORD
This document is for use by Developers when planning, designing and constructing
conventional foul and surface water gravity sewers and lateral drains for small
developments.
The guidance may be used for drainage systems:
a)
for housing developments of ten properties or less, or commercial developments with
a combined roof area less than 1000 m2;
b)
drained only by gravity (i.e. no adoptable pumping stations);
c)
with a total impermeable area draining to the adoptable system less than 0.5 ha;
d)
where pipes are installed using conventional open trench construction;
e)
not involving the construction of any manholes (i.e. man access chambers, although
inspection chambers are permitted);
f)
not involving the construction of any inspection chambers greater than 3 m in depth;
g)
in which no parts of the adoptable system are more than 150 m from an existing
manhole on the public sewer system; and
h)
not involving any on-site casting of reinforced concrete structures.
Where any of the criteria listed above do not apply, then the developer should design and
construct the system in accordance with Sewers for Adoption 7th edition.
Defra have published functional standards and guidance for the construction of new foul
sewers and lateral drains. Relevant aspects of this guidance is incorporated here and more
detailed industry recommendations have been included to help Developers comply with the
Secretary of State's standards and guidance.
For adoptable surface water sewers and lateral drains, industry guidance is included
pending the introduction of new arrangements for the approval and adoption of surface water
drainage systems. This will include the publication of national standards for sustainable
drainage systems. Part C in this document could be subject to amendment following
publication of the National Standards.
It is expected that new surface water sewers and lateral drains will still be constructed and
will be adoptable by the Sewerage Undertaker in the same way as foul drainage systems.
Where these will connect to the public sewer system, a Section 104 agreement will still
therefore be required in accordance with Section 106B of the Water Industry Act 1991. In
such circumstances, adoptable sewers and laterals should be designed and constructed in
accordance with the relevant provisions of the National Standards for Sustainable Drainage
when they are published.
Part A GENERAL
A1
DEFINITIONS
1. "Access point" means provision to access a sewer or drain for maintenance or inspection
and includes any inspection chamber or rodding eye.
2. "Drain" means a pipeline, usually underground, designed to carry foul sewage or surface
water from buildings and paved areas associated with buildings within the same curtilage.
3. "Sewer" means a pipeline, usually underground, designed to carry foul sewage and/or
surface water from buildings and paved areas associated with buildings in more than one
curtilage.
4. "Lateral drain" means that part of the drain which is between the point of demarcation, or
the boundary of the property it serves, and the sewer.
5. "Curtilage" means the area of land around a building, or group of buildings, which is for
the private use of the occupants of the buildings. For this purpose typically:
a) each detached, semi-detached and terraced house should each be considered as a
separate curtilage.
b) where a building contains a number of flats, the whole block of flats should be
considered to be a single curtilage.
c) separate commercial properties sited on land privately owned by a single body (e.g.,
a shopping centre, airport terminal, retail park, etc.) will be considered as a single
curtilage if the commercial properties share the site access and facilities.
PART B DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF

NEW FOUL SEWERS AND LATERAL DRAINS
B1
SEPARATE SYSTEMS
1. Separate foul and surface water systems should be provided.

2. If sewers are to discharge into an existing combined (single pipe) sewer system, the
separate foul and surface water sewers should be combined at locations immediately
upstream of the point where they discharge into the existing combined sewer system.
3. Watercourses or land drainage are not permitted to be directly or indirectly connected to
the public sewer system. Satisfactory and separate arrangements should be agreed with the
local Land Drainage Authority and confirmed with the Undertaker unless it is a part of a
sustainable drainage system approved by the SuDS Approval Body (SAB) in accordance
with Section 32 and Schedule 3 of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010.
B2
LAYOUT AND ACCESS
B2.1
Layout
1. Limiting flood risk can have an impact on the layout of a development and, therefore, can
impact on the layout of drains and sewers.
2. Access points on sewers and lateral drains should not be laid in enclosed private land.
Where this is not practicable, access points of sewers and laterals may be constructed:
a)
b)
c)
d)
in shared rear yards or parking areas, provided there is free access at all times;
in enclosed shared private areas provided that all those properties served by the
sewers have right of access to the area at all times. Access control systems
should include provision for access by the Sewerage Undertaker;
where the drain or sewer serves ten properties or less, in unfenced gardens; or
on sewers serving no more than two properties, provided that access is also
possible from the other property by another access point.
3. As far as practicable, sewers and lateral drains should be laid in highways or public open
space where they are reasonably accessible and visible. Sewers should not be laid in
enclosed private land. Where this is not practicable, sewers and lateral drains with a nominal
internal diameter of 150 mm or less may be laid:
a)
b)
c)
in shared rear yards or parking areas or other shared areas to which all the
properties served by the sewers have right of access; or where this is not
reasonably practicable
where the drain or sewer serves ten properties or less, in unfenced gardens; or
where this is not reasonably practicable
in fenced private areas provided that the sewer is kept as far as is practicable
from any point on a building where a future extension is likely.
4. The external face of any new sewer or lateral drain should be at least 1.2 m from any
building or structure, or a distance equivalent to the depth of the sewer below the foundation,
whichever is greater; except that a sewer or lateral drain with a nominal internal diameter of
150 mm or less, with an invert level at least 150 mm above the base of the foundation and
no more than 1100 mm deep, should be no less than 100 mm from the foundations (see
Figure B.1).
5. Where it is not possible to comply with Clause B2.1.4 because another building/structure
is in such close proximity that there are no permitted locations, new sewers or lateral drains
may be located between buildings or structures provided that:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
there is at least 900 mm separating the buildings or structures where a single

sewer or lateral drain is proposed and 1100 mm where dual systems are
proposed;
the depth of the invert of the sewer or lateral drain below the ground level is no
greater than the distance between the buildings or structures;
the sewers or lateral drains have a nominal internal diameter of 150 mm or less;
the sewers or lateral drains have an invert level at least 150 mm above the base
of the highest of the foundations of the two buildings;
there is at least 350 mm cover above the pipe; and
there is at least 100 mm between the pipe wall and the foundations (see Figure
B.2).
6. Sewers and lateral drains should be located so that if there is a structural failure of the
drain or sewer, or an excavation is carried out to repair the drain or sewer, the integrity of
adjacent buildings or other infrastructure is not impaired.
7. For the purposes of B2.1.4 and B2.1.5, the foundation level of the building or structure
with piled foundations should be taken from the underside of the capping beam.
Note: In B2.1.3, B2.1.4 and B2.1.5, the recommendations are intended to allow sufficient
working space for hand excavation in proximity to the building or structure if repair is
necessary in the future.
8. Foul sewers and lateral drains should not be constructed under any building, or any
structure except that they may cross under a boundary wall not greater than 1 m high (see
Section B5).
9. Sewers should be laid in straight lines in both the vertical alignment (profile) and
horizontal alignment (plan) except that bends up to 45 degrees may be laid immediately
outside inspection chambers (see Figure B.13).
10. The minimum depth of cover to the crown of gravity pipes without protection should be
as follows:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
domestic gardens and pathways without any possibility of vehicular access,

0.35 m;
domestic driveways, parking areas and yards with height restrictions to prevent
entry by vehicles with a gross vehicle weight in excess of 7.5 tonnes, 0.5 m;
domestic driveways, parking areas and narrow streets without footways (e.g.,
mews developments) with limited access for vehicles with a gross vehicle weight
in excess of 7.5 tonnes, 0.9 m;
agricultural land and public open space, 0.9 m;
other highways and parking areas with unrestricted access to vehicles with a
gross vehicle weight in excess of 7.5 tonnes, 1.2 m.
11. Sewers and lateral drains may be laid through arches and other external openings
through buildings or structures provided that they are laid as near to the centre of the
opening as possible and:
a)
b)
for vehicular entries with a minimum width of 4.0 m and minimum height of arch
above ground level of 2.1 m, the maximum nominal internal diameter of the pipe
should be 225 mm with a maximum depth to invert of the pipe of 2.0 m and the
invert should be at least 150 mm above the foundation level; or
for pedestrian access with a minimum width of 0.9 m and minimum height of
2.0 m, the maximum nominal internal diameter of the pipe should be 100 mm
and should comply with B2.1.5.
12. Sewers or lateral drains may pass through an opening in a property boundary wall
provided that there is an arch or lintelled opening to give at least 50 mm space around the
pipe (see Clause B2.1.8).
13. The design of landscaping should be undertaken at the same time as the design of the
drains and sewers so that the impact of tree roots on sewers and drains can be considered.
A sewer or lateral drain should not be located closer to trees/bushes/shrubs than the canopy
width at mature height, except where special protection measures are provided, in
accordance with Clause B5.5. A tree should not be planted directly over sewers or where
excavation onto the sewer would require removal of the tree. The following shallow rooting
shrubs are generally suitable for planting close to sewers and lateral drains:
Berberis candidula; (Paleleaf barberry)
Berberis julianae; (Wintergreen barberry)
Ceanothus burkwoodii; (Californian lilac Burkwoodii)
Cotoneaster dammeri; (Bearberry cotoneaster)
Cotoneaster skogholm; (Cotoneaster x suecicus, Skogholm)
Cytisus varieties or Sarothamnus; ((Common or Scotch) Broom)
Euonymus japonica; (Japanese spindle)
Euonymus radicans; Variety of Euonymus (Fortunes spindle or wintercreeper)
Mahonia varieties; can be included in the genus Berberis, most common name is
M. aquifolium (Oregon grape)
Potentilla varieties; most varieties are types of cinquefoil. Also includes Common
tormentil, silverweed and barren strawberry
Skimmia japonica; (Skimmia)
Spiraea japonica; (Japanese spirea or Japanese meadowsweet)
Veronica varieties; (Speedwell)
Viburnum davidii; (David viburnum)
Viburnum tinus; (Lauristinus)
14. When in a highway, the outside of the sewer should be in the vehicle carriageway (not
footway) and be at least 1 m from the kerb line. The external faces of inspection chambers
should be at least 0.5 m from the kerb line.
15. Typical layouts are shown in Figures B.3 to B.6.
FIGURE B.1
PERMITTED LOCATION OF SEWERS AND
LATERAL DRAINS IN PROXIMITY TO BUILDINGS
100
See Clause B2.1.10

for minimum depths
100
Permitted location
where pipe DN150
Permitted location
150
(pipes should be
entirely in permitted area)
Foundation
(e.g., strip, raft,
trench fill)
100
Not normally permitted

(consult the Undertaker)
1200
1100 maximum
Not permitted
Not permitted
1200
Not to scale, dimensions in millimetres
Permitted location
(pipes should be entirely
in permitted area)
FIGURE B.2
ADDITIONAL DETAIL - PERMITTED LOCATION OF SEWERS
AND LATERAL DRAINS BETWEEN BUILDINGS
(where Figure B.1 is not applicable only)
900 minimum for single pipe and

1100 mm minimum for dual pipe
or depth of pipe, whichever is greater
1100 maximum
350
100
Not permitted
150
Not permitted
100
Permitted location
where pipe DN150
(pipes should be
entirely in permitted area)
Strip
foundation
Trench fill
foundation
100
100
FIGURE B.3
TYPICAL LAYOUT 1
Access point in
public area
Access point in
public area
Not preferred See Clause B2.1.3
plot 1
plot 2
plot 3
plot 4 plot 5
plot 6 plot 7
plot 11 plot 12
plot 13
Additional inspection chambers give

access to sewers in enclosed areas
plot 8
plot 9
plot 10
plot 14
Chambers not fully accessible

See Clause B2.1.2(d)
Key:
Sewers serving more than 10 dwellings to be minimum 150 mm diameter.
Other sewers or lateral drains to be minimum 100 mm diameter
Foul sewer
Foul lateral drain
Unfenced or low fence boundary
Foul drain (not adoptable)
High fence boundary
Foul manhole
Type 3 foul inspection chamber
Type 4 foul inspection chambers - not greater than 3 properties
Type 4 foul inspection chambers - not greater than 1 property (not adoptable)
Note: Some inspection chambers act as demarcation chambers.
FIGURE B.4
TYPICAL LAYOUT 2
g4
plot 1
plot 2
plot 3
plot 6
plot 7
plot 8
g9
Access point in
public area
g5
plot 4
plot 5
plot 9
plot 10
g 10
Not preferred
See Clause B2.1.3
Access point in
public area
Key:
Foul sewer
Foul lateral drain
High fence boundary
Foul manhole
FIGURE B.5
TYPICAL LAYOUT 3
plot 1
plot 2
plot 3
See
Note 2
plot 9
plot 10
plot 11
plot 4
plot 5
plot 6
plot 7
plot 8
150
plot 12
plot 13
plot 14
plot 15
plot 16

Notes: 1. Inspection chambers in footway are sited in zone reserved for street lighting columns
2. Additional inspection chambers give access to sewers in enclosed areas
Key:
Foul sewer
Foul lateral drain
High fence boundary
Foul manhole
FIGURE B.6
TYPICAL LAYOUT 4
See Note 2
8 flats
16 flats
Private Road
150
See Note 3
Private Road
150
See Note 2
See Note 2
8 flats
Notes: 1. Designation of individual pipes will depend on curtilage. See Clause A1.5
2. Designation assumes drain is in private land
3. Designation of pipe assumes road is private
Key:
Foul sewer
Foul lateral drain
Foul manhole
Type 3 foul inspection chamber (not adoptable)
B2.2
Access
1. Access points should be located so that they are accessible and apparent to the
Undertaker at all times for use. They should avoid rear gardens or enclosed locations.
Additional access points may be provided in other locations, as long as access is provided to
the system from other access points, in accordance with the recommendations in Clauses
B2.2.2 to B2.2.15.
2. Access points, and any inlets to drains or sewers, should be located so as to minimise the
risk of damage to buildings or other critical infrastructure in the event of sewer flooding.
3. Access points and sewers should be sited with due regard to public utility services. An
access point should be built:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
f)
at every change of alignment, gradient or pipe material;

at the head of all sewers;
at every junction of two or more public sewers;
wherever there is a change in the size of the sewer;
at every junction of a public sewer with another sewer serving three or more
properties where the access point is an inspection chamber;
at or within 1 m of the property boundary at the upstream end of each lateral
drain (preferably inside the property boundary).
4. Where access to a pipe is provided through an inspection chamber, no part of the pipe
should be more than 22.5 m from the adjacent inspection chamber (i.e., the distance
between adjacent inspection chambers should be no more than 45 m).
5. Inspection chambers should be designed to afford reasonable access for equipment to
carry out maintenance activities. Inspection chambers should be designed to deter
personnel access.
6. The flow diagram in Figure B.7, used in conjunction with the access structure standard
details and the recommended layouts (Figures B.3 to B.6); will ensure that the sewerage
system meets the required safety, operational and sustainability standards. Each junction,
change of direction or change of status, is described here as a node. No access is required
at a node if it connects less than three properties and there already is, or will be, sufficient
access to carry out sewer maintenance.
7. Any pipe, and associated access upstream of the point of demarcation, is a private drain
and should be constructed in accordance with the Building Regulations.
8. Figures B.8 to B.16 show typical details of inspection chambers. No significant departure
from these dimensions should be made without approval by the Undertaker.
9. "In-fill" type covers should not be used. Where a cover is located in an area of block
paving, the bottom of the frame should be 150 mm deep.
10. Covers for inspection chambers should be in accordance with Section D2.17 of the Civil
Engineering Specification.
11. Unless the chamber is designed to withstand the vertical load acting on it, a precast
concrete slab or in-situ concrete slab, should be provided, to act as a collar to support the
cover and frame. The collar should be separate from the chamber to ensure the loading from
the cover and frame is not transferred to the chamber.
12. The first inspection chamber upstream from the connection to the (existing) public sewer
should, when constructed, be fitted with a screen in order to prevent debris entering the
public sewer. The screen should not be removed until immediately prior to the occupation of
premises to be served by the sewer.
13. Rocker pipes should be provided at entry to, and exits from, inspection chambers when
rigid pipes are used. Their length should be as shown in Table D.5 (see Section D5.3).
14. Where pipes serving a total of three properties or more connect to a pipe that has a
nominal internal diameter less than or equal to 150 mm, the branch connections should be
set so that the soffits of all the pipes are at the same level. In all other cases, branch
connections should be set with the soffit levels no lower than that of the main pipe and with
the invert level of the branch connection at least 50 mm above the invert of the main pipe.
15. The main channel should extend the whole length of the chamber, comprising a halfround section plus vertical benching from the top edge of the half round section to a height of
not less than that of the soffit of the outlet, where it should be rounded off and sloped
upwards to meet the wall of the chamber.
Figure B.7 Access Type Selection
FIGURE B.8
TYPICAL ARRANGEMENT OF PIPE JUNCTIONS WITHIN MANHOLES
No junction less than 90

from outgoing sewer
Preformed swept channels
Rocker pipe required

for rigid pipes
Sectional Plan
Rigid pipes built into manhole should have a flexible joint as close as feasible to the
external face of the structure and the length of the next rocker pipe should be as shown.
Nominal diameter (mm)
Maximum
effective length (m)
150 - 600
0.6
601 - 750
1.00
over 750
1.25
All pipes entering the bottom of the manhole to have soffits level.
FIGURE B.9
TYPICAL INSPECTION CHAMBER DETAIL - TYPE 3 (Flexible material detail)
Maximum depth from cover level to soffit of pipe
in areas subject to vehicle loading 3 m, non-entry
Plastic chambers and rings shall comply with BS EN 13598-1 and
BS EN 13598-2 or have equivalent independent approval
Mortar bedding and haunching to
cover and frame to Clause D5.4
Manhole cover to suit BS EN 124 loading

Highways - Class D400
600 mm clear opening
Access opening restricted
to 350 mm diameter or
300 mm x 300 mm if depth
of chamber to invert is > 1 m
Surface course
Binder course
Base course
Class B engineering
brickwork or precast
concrete cover frame
seating rings
Precast concrete slab

or in-situ concrete slab to
support cover and frame
Flexible seal
DOT Type 1 sub base

(thickness varies)
Temporarily cap shaft

during construction
Minimum internal dimensions

450 mm diameter or
450 mm x 450 mm
DOT Type 1 sub base

(thickness varies)
or concrete surround
Joints between base and

shaft and between shaft
components to be fitted
with watertight seals
Base unit to have all

connections with soffit
levels set no lower than
that of the main pipe
Joint to be as close
as possible to face of
chamber to permit
satisfactory joint and
subsequent movement
Granular bedding material
Invert of connecting pipe at least

50 mm above that of the main pipe
Note: Where the access chamber is in the highway the

Highway Authority can have specific requirements
Not to scale
FIGURE B.10
ALTERNATIVE TOP DETAILS FOR LIGHT VEHICLE LOADING
AND LANDSCAPED AREAS - TYPE 3
Cover complying with

BS EN 124 and BS 7903
Driveways, footways and
landscaped areas - Class B125
See Clause D2.17
Sited in domestic driveways or footways

Mortar bedding and haunching
to cover and frame
to Clause D5.4

150 mm deep concrete collar

during construction
Flexible seal

450 mm diameter or
450 mm x 450 mm
Sited in domestic gardens

Gardens - Class A15
See Clause D2.17
Mortar bedding and haunching

to cover and frame
to Clause D5.4
Topsoil

during construction
Flexible seal

450 mm diameter or
450 mm x 450 mm

Not to scale
FIGURE B.11
TYPICAL INSPECTION CHAMBER DETAIL - TYPE 3 (Rigid material detail)
Maximum depth from cover level to soffit of pipe
in areas subject to vehicle loading 3 m, non-entry

Manhole cover to suit BS EN 124 loading

minimum 300 mm x 300 mm clear opening
Surface course
Binder course
Base course
1-4 precast concrete cover

frame seating rings with
350 mm diameter or
300 mm x 300 mm opening
or class B engineering bricks
Cover slab with

access opening restricted
Temporarily cap manhole

shaft during construction
DOT Type 1 sub base
(thickness varies)
Precast concrete sections to

be jointed with elastomeric
or plastomeric seals

450 mm diameter
or 450 mm x 450 mm
DOT Type 1 sub base

(thickness varies)
Pipes built into chamber

wall or joint formed with
watertight seals
Base unit to have all

connections with soffit
levels set no lower than
that of the main pipe
100 mm precast base

or 150 mm in-situ formed
Joint to be as close as possible
to face of chamber to permit
subsequent movement
See Figure B.8 and
Clause D5.3.2
for rocker pipe details

Not to scale
FIGURE B.12
Alternative maximum depth from cover level to soffit of pipe 3 m for areas not subject
to vehicle loading or areas subject to light vehicle loading, non-entry
Gardens - Grade A15
See Clause D2.17
Access opening restricted to

350 mm diameter or 300 mm x 300 mm
if depth of chamber to invert is > 1 m

450 mm diameter or
450 mm x 450 mm
Precast concrete
chamber sections
Joints to be made with either butyl
resin sealant or cement mortar
Concrete surround 150 mm thick
High-strength concrete
topping minimum 20 mm thick
Benching slope to be 1:10 to 1:30
See Figure B.8 and

Clause D5.3.2
225 mm to underside of pipe
150 mm minimum
In-situ concrete to be GEN3
(designed to BRE Special Digest 1
Concrete in Aggressive Ground)
Inverts to be formed
using channel pieces

Main flow

subsequent movement

Not to scale
FIGURE B.13
ALTERNATIVE BASE LAYOUTS FOR TYPE 3 CHAMBERS
Flexible inlet/outlet
and/or bend
(maximum angle 45)
to facilitate connection
Main flow
subsequent movement
Unused inlets to be
sealed and watertight
and/or bend
(maximum angle 45)
Where chambers are positioned on 90
corners, always use the main channel by
fitting a 45 bend on the inlet and outlet
Main flow
Note: Where a bend is used immediately outside the

manhole, this may be used as the rocker pipe
Not to scale
FIGURE B.14
TYPICAL INSPECTION CHAMBER DETAIL - TYPE 4 (Flexible material detail)
Maximum depth from cover level to soffit of pipe 2 m, non-entry
Sited in driveways/paved areas


See Clause D2.17
180 mm diameter or
225 mm x 100 mm

Minimum radius to be 500 mm
for a 100 mm diameter pipe and
600 mm for a 150 mm diameter
pipe to allow entry of
maintenance equipment
Joints between base and shaft
and shaft components to be
fitted with watertight seals
DOT Type 1 sub base

(thickness varies)
Base unit to have all connections
with a diameter greater than
150 mm set at soffits level

Gardens - Class A15
See Clause D2.17
Sited in domestic gardens


180 mm diameter or
225 mm x 100 mm
Topsoil
Joints between base and shaft
and shaft components to be
fitted with watertight seals
DOT Type 1 sub base

(thickness varies)
Base unit to have all connections
with soffit levels set no lower
than that of the main pipe
and/or bend
(maximum angle 45)
subsequent movement
Unused inlet to be
sealed and watertight


Not to scale
FIGURE B.15
TYPICAL INSPECTION CHAMBER DETAIL - TYPE 4 (Alternative construction detail)

Maximum cover opening to be 350 mm
See Clause D2.17

Minimum internal diameter

180 mm or 225 mm x 100 mm
DOT Type 1 sub base
(thickness varies)

Not to scale
FIGURE B.16
Cover to suit BS EN 124 loading

Driveways and footways - Class B125
Gardens - Class A15
See Clause D2.17


450 mm x 600 mm
Class B engineering bricks,

concrete rings or sections
not less than 200 mm thick
High-strength concrete
topping minimum 20 mm thick.
Benching slope to be 1:10 to 1:30
See Figure B.8 and

Clause D5.3.2
Arch over pipe
225 mm to
underside of pipe
150 mm minimum
In-situ concrete to be GEN3

(designed to BRE Special Digest 1
Concrete in Aggressive Ground)
Inverts to be formed
using channel pieces
Note: The use of precast rectangular concrete manhole units with

150 mm grade GEN3 concrete surround (designed to BRE Special Digest 1
Concrete in Aggressive Ground) is permitted.

subsequent movement
Main flow

Main flow

Not to scale
B3
RELIABILITY
1. The minimum size for a gravity foul sewer should be:

a)
b)
100 mm nominal internal diameter for ten properties or less; or

150 mm nominal internal diameter for more than ten properties.
2. The minimum size for a gravity foul lateral drain should be 100 mm.
3. As far as practicable, junctions should be built in for all planned connections when sewers
are constructed to avoid damage to the sewer by installing connections at a later date.
Where it is necessary to make a post-construction connection to a sewer, B3.8 and D4.6 will
apply. The upstream end of any unused connection should be sealed until required.
4. The vertical angle between the connecting pipe and the horizontal should be greater than
0o and not more than 60o (see Figure B.17).
5. Where the connection is being made to a sewer with a nominal internal diameter of
300 mm or less, connections should be made using 45o angle, or 90o angle, curved square
junctions (see Figure B.17).
6. Connections made with junction fittings should be made by cutting the existing pipe,
inserting the junction fitting and jointing with flexible repair couplings or slip couplers.
7. Where the connection is being made to a sewer with a nominal internal diameter greater
than 300 mm:
a)
b)
where the diameter of the connecting pipe is greater than half the diameter of the
sewer, the connection of an access point should be constructed; or
where the diameter of the connecting pipe is less than or equal to half the
diameter of the sewer, then the connection should be made using a preformed
saddle fitting.
8. Connections made with saddle fittings should be made by cutting and safely removing a
core from the pipe and jointing the saddle fitting to the pipe, in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions, to ensure a watertight joint. The connecting pipe should not
protrude into the sewer.
9. To provide a self-cleansing regime within gravity foul sewers:
a)
b)
a 150 mm nominal internal diameter gravity sewer is laid to a gradient not flatter
than 1:150 where there are at least ten dwelling units connected; or
a sewer or lateral drain with a nominal internal diameter of 100 mm, or a lateral
drain serving ten or less properties is laid to a gradient not flatter than 1:80,
where there is at least one WC connected and 1:40 if there is no WC connected.
10. These parameters should not to be taken as a norm when the topography permits
steeper gradients. Hydraulic studies indicate that these requirements may not necessarily
achieve a self-cleansing regime. When a choice has to be made between gravity sewerage
and pumped sewerage, these criteria should not be regarded as inflexible and the Developer
should consult the Undertaker.
45
90
FIGURE B.17
CONNECTIONS TO SEWER
Connection pipe
300 mm maximum
nominal internal diameter
Acceptable
range
A
Sewer
Cross-sectional
view of sewer
Plan viewed in
direction of arrow - A
FIGURE B.18
PROTECTION OF PIPES LAID AT SHALLOW DEPTHS
Backfill
Reinforced concrete slab

Compressible material
Pipe
Granular surround
300 mm minimum bearing

on original ground
B4
HYDRAULIC DESIGN
B4.1
Foul Sewers and Lateral Drains
1. For developments within the scope of this guide a sewer or lateral drain with a nominal
diameter of 100 mm should be adequate unless exceptional flow is expected due to the
nature of the commercial property. Where exceptional flows are expected the hydraulic
design should be in accordance with Sewers for Adoption 7th Edition.
B4.2
Protection Against Flooding
1. In designing the site sewerage and layout, Developers should also demonstrate flow
paths and the potential effects of flooding resulting from blockages, pumping station failure
or surcharging in downstream combined sewers, by checking the ground levels around the
likely points that flow would flood from the system to identify the flood routes.
2. The designer should carry out checks to ensure that an adequate level of protection
against the flooding of properties is achieved. The layout of the sewer system and/or the
development should be adjusted to minimise the risk of flooding of properties.
B5
STRUCTURAL DESIGN AND INTEGRITY
1. Buried pipes should be designed in accordance with BS EN 1295-1.

Note: BS 9295 gives information and guidance for the use of BS EN 1295-1 Annex A, the
UK established method for the structural design of buried pipelines under various conditions
of loading. The procedures are explained and, where general assumptions can be made,
loading tables are given. Application details for pipelines laid in various trench conditions and
in poor ground are shown.
2. The design of the pipeline should take account of loading from the passage of
construction plant as well as normal design loading.
3. If the depth of cover to the crown of the pipe is less than the values recommended in
Clause B2.1.10 (unless it can be demonstrated by structural calculations or other suitable
means) one of the following protection measures should be provided:
a)
b)
c)
a concrete slab in accordance with Figure B.18; or

a concrete surround with flexible joints in accordance with Figure B.19; or
a ductile iron pipe of an adequate strength should be used.
4. The structural design of all pipes should take into account the possible incidence of
punching shear. The design should ensure that no vertical load is imposed by structures
such as shafts onto non-load bearing components such as the pipes.
5. Where there is a risk of tree root intrusion (see Clause B2.1.13) the sewer system should
be resistant to tree root ingress (e.g., by use of appropriate barriers or constructed from
polyethylene with welded joints).
FIGURE B.19
JOINTS FOR CONCRETE ENCASED PIPES
100
Compressible filler
100
100
100
Pipe
Spigot and socket joint

Concrete pipe surround
100
Compressible filler
100
100
100
Pipe
Sleeve joint
Concrete pipe surround
Concrete lintel
50
FIGURE B.20
PROTECTION OF PIPES PENETRATING SINGLE LEAF BOUNDARY WALLS
50
Compressible filler
Compressible filler

(all dimensions are minimum sizes)
B6
MATERIALS
1. Materials should comply with the requirements of Part D of this guide.

2. Materials and components should comply with the following:
a)
b)
c)
B7
the manufacturing process should minimise the use of solvent-based substances

that emit volatile organic compounds or ozone-depleting substances;
products should be made from recycled material, where reasonably practicable;
and
the use and/or creation of substances included in the UK Red List (DoE, 1988) of
toxic substances should be avoided during the manufacturing process.
CONSTRUCTION
1. Construction of the drainage system should comply with the requirements of Part D of this
guide.
B8
TESTING
1. Testing of the drainage system should comply with the requirements of Part D of this
guide.
PART C SURFACE WATER SEWERS AND

LATERAL DRAINS
Note to Developers: New arrangements for the approval and adoption of surface water
drainage by local authorities are proposed in the future.
C1
LAYOUT AND ACCESS
C1.1
Layout
1. The layout of surface water sewers and drains should be in accordance with B2.1 (except
for B2.1.8) and C1.1.2.
2. Surface water sewers and lateral drains should not normally be constructed under any
building, or any structure, except that they may cross under a boundary wall not greater than
1 m high (see Section C5). However, for terraced properties it is sometimes necessary to
install intermediate rainwater pipes, along the length of the terrace, to take rainwater from
more than one property. Where it is not reasonably practicable to route the sewer around the
building, surface water sewers with a nominal internal diameter of no more than 100 mm
may be laid under a building, provided that the sewer takes the drainage from no more than
one rainwater pipe with a nominal internal diameter of no more than DN75, or the equivalent
cross-sectional area, provided that the entry point to the rainwater pipe is in the land owned
by the building concerned.
C1.2
Access
1. Access for surface water sewers and drains should be in accordance with B2.2 and
C1.2.2 and C1.2.3 below.
2. For chambers containing flow control devices, see Section C4. Nodes associated with
oversized pipes for storage purposes should be designed as part of the storage.
3. Where the inspection chamber is associated with a surface water attenuation
arrangement, the chamber should be designed as part of that structure (see Section C4).
C2
RELIABILITY
1. Surface water sewers and drains should be in accordance with B2.3 (except for B2.3.1,
B2.3.2 and B2.3.9) and C2.2, C2.3 and C2.4.
2. The minimum size for a gravity surface water sewer should be 150 mm nominal internal
diameter, except where a 100 mm nominal internal diameter is permitted, in accordance with
C1.1.2.
3. The minimum size for a gravity surface water lateral drain should be 100 mm nominal
internal diameter.
4. To provide a self-cleansing regime within surface gravity sewers, the minimum flow
velocity should be 1 m per second at pipe full flow. Where this requirement cannot be met,
then this criterion would be considered to be satisfied if:
a)
b)
a 150 mm nominal internal diameter gravity sewer is laid to a gradient not flatter
than 1:150; or
a 100 mm nominal internal diameter lateral drain is laid to a gradient not flatter
than 1:100.
C3
HYDRAULIC DESIGN
C3.1
Surface Water on Site
1. The system should be designed under pipe full conditions to accept the following design
storm (i.e., without surcharging above pipe soffit):
sites with average ground slopes greater than 1%
1 year;
sites with average ground slopes 1% or less
2 year; and
sites where consequences of flooding are severe

5 year.
(e.g., existing basement properties adjacent to new development)
2. Surface water sewers should be designed for runoff from roofs and, subject to the
agreement of the Undertaker, highways (including verges) and other paved areas. For these
areas, an impermeability of 100% should generally be assumed. They should not be
designed to take runoff from other areas or land drainage. In these cases, satisfactory and
separate arrangements should be agreed with the local Land Drainage Authority and
confirmed to the Undertaker.
C3.2
Protection Against Flooding
1. During extremely wet weather, the capacity of the surface water sewers may be
inadequate, even though they have been designed in accordance with Clause C3.1.1. Under
such conditions, sewers may surcharge and surface water can escape from those manhole
covers which lie below the hydraulic gradient. In designing the site sewerage and layout,
Developers should also demonstrate flow paths and the potential effects of flooding resulting
from extreme rainfall blockages, pumping station failure or surcharging in downstream
sewers, by checking the ground levels around the likely points that flow would flood from the
system to identify the flood routes.
C3.3
Control of Surface Water Discharges
1. The Developer is encouraged to have early discussions with the Undertaker to ensure that
a sustainable approach to the management of surface water from the site is applied.
2. The Local Planning Authority can specify restrictions on the route of discharge of surface
water from a development. For details of these, refer to the appropriate planning guidance.
3. Flow control devices should be provided with a bypass valve so that the storage can be
drained in the event of blockage of the flow control device.
C4
FLOW ATTENUATION FOR SURFACE WATER SEWER SYSTEMS
1. The design and location of flow attenuation and flow control devices and chambers are to
be agreed with the Undertaker.
2. The design of flow attenuation facilities should, wherever practicable, include the following
criteria:
a)
b)
c)
d)
gravity tank sewers or oversized pipes should be designed as online storage;

where parallel pipes are used for attenuation, one pipe should act as online
storage, one as offline;
the design of attenuation facilities should seek to prevent a build-up of silt and
other debris, (e.g., by use of benching and low-flow channels); and
attenuation facilities will be designed to allow access for regular maintenance.
3. The design of flow control devices should, wherever practicable, include the following
features:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
C5
flow controls may be static (such as vortex flow controls or fixed orifice plates) or
variable (such as pistons or slide valves);
static controls should have a minimum opening size of 100 mm chamber, or
equivalent;
variable controls may have a smaller opening provided they have a selfcleansing mechanism;
a bypass should be included with a surface operated penstock or valve; and
access should be provided to the upstream and downstream sections of a flow
control device to allow maintenance.
STRUCTURAL DESIGN AND INTEGRITY
1. Structural design and integrity for surface water sewers and drains should be in
accordance with B5.
C6
MATERIALS
1. Materials for surface water sewers and drains should be in accordance with Part D of this
guide.
C7
CONSTRUCTION
1. Construction of surface water sewers and drains should be in accordance with Part D of
this guide.
C8
TESTING
1. Testing of surface water sewers and drains should be in accordance with Part D of this
guide.
PART D CIVIL ENGINEERING

SPECIFICATION
Introduction
part D is drawn from Sewers for Adoption 7th Edition but is not a full reproduction of the
same, and is supplemented by additional information. Any clauses in this Part which relate to
work or materials not required shall be deemed not to apply.
The clause headings and marginal Notes for Guidance (found in italics to the left of some
clauses) are not part of the specification.
Where additional clauses are required, reference should be made to Sewers for Adoption 7th
Edition.
Where Developers wish to use materials or methods not covered by this specification
reference should be made to Sewers for Adoption.
(i) The datum level for the

Works should be pre-scribed,
together with any master
benchmarks.
Precise
reference of the Works to
existing features or to the
Ordnance Survey National
Grid should be shown.
D1
GENERAL
D1.1
DRAWINGS
1. One copy of the Drawings shall be kept on the site and shall
be available for use by the Undertaker.
2. All levels on the Drawings shall be related to Ordnance Survey
Newlyn Datum. Details shall be provided of the level and location
of the temporary benchmarks and reference points which are
proposed to be used.
(ii) Local differences can

arise between GPS and OS
coordinates.
D1.2
SETTING OUT
1. The Developer shall be responsible for setting out the Works

and for the correctness of the position and dimensions of all parts
of the Works.
D1.3 QUALITY OF MATERIALS, WORKMANSHIP AND
TESTS
1. All materials and workmanship shall be subjected, from time to
time, to such tests as the Undertaker may direct.
2. If required by the Undertaker, a list of the Developers
proposed suppliers and sources of materials required for the
execution of the Works shall be submitted to the Undertaker.
Samples shall be taken in accordance with the appropriate British
Standard, where applicable.

D1.4
EXAMINATION OF WORK
1. The Undertaker shall be afforded the opportunity to examine

any work which is about to be covered up or put out of view, and
to examine foundations before permanent work is to be placed
thereon.
2. At least one clear working days notice shall be given to the
Undertaker before any formation is covered with permanent work
and before testing any pipeline.
D1.5
EXISTING PUBLIC SEWERS
All necessary precautions shall be taken to avoid causing any

damage to, or interference with flow in, existing public sewers
and shall ensure that debris, silt and mud, etc., do not enter the
sewer. All necessary precautions shall be taken to avoid
misconnection to existing public sewers.
D1.6
(i) The Undertaker may also
have its own health and
safety provisions in respect
of work carried out within or
adjacent to any public sewer
SAFETY IN SEWERS
1. Where work is required to be carried out within or adjacent to

any sewer, there shall be regard of the relevant provisions of
The Classification and Management of Confined Space Entries
published by Water UK.
D1.7 BRITISH AND EUROPEAN STANDARDS AND OTHER
DOCUMENTS
Any reference to a Standard published by BSI, or to the
specification of another body, shall be construed equally as
reference to an equivalent one. Submissions shall be in
accordance with the latest published Standard which is current
on the date the submission is made.
D2
MATERIALS
D2.1
STORAGE OF MATERIALS
1. Materials and components shall be stored in such a manner as

to preserve their quality and condition to the standards required
by the Specification.
D2.2
(i) An understanding of
manufacturers recommendations is necessary before
their applicability can be
assessed.
HANDLING AND USE OF MATERIALS
1. Materials and components shall be handled in such a manner

as to avoid any damage or contamination, and in accordance
with all applicable recommendations of the manufacturers.
2. Unless otherwise described in the Specification, the use,
installation, application or fixing of materials and components
shall be in accordance with all applicable recommendations of
the manufacturers. Where appropriate, any technical advisory

services offered by manufacturers shall be used.
D2.3
WATER
1. Water for use with cement shall be of wholesome quality.

D2.4
i) The requirement for sands
to be washed is additional to
the requirements of the
Standards, but is in line with
the main conclusion of CIRIA
Report R59 Building Sands:
Availability,
Usage
and
Compliance
with
Specification Requirements.
1. Sands for mortar and grout shall comply with BS EN 13139

and PD 6682-3.
2. Sands for external rendering shall comply with the relevant
provisions of BS EN 13139 and PD 6682-3.
3. All sands required to comply with BS EN 12620 and PD 66821, BS EN 13139 and PD 6682-3 shall be washed sands.
D2.5
(i) The lower strength limit of
20 N per mm2 for the use of
sulphate-resisting Portland
cement is consistent with
BS 4027 for standard mixes.
SANDS FOR MORTAR AND GROUT
CEMENT
1. Cement shall either:

a) be factory-produced by the cement manufacturer and comply
with the provisions of the appropriate Standard, as Table D.1; or
Table D.1
(ii) BRE Special Digest No. 1

'Concrete
in
Aggressive
Ground' deals with sulphateresistance classification.
(iii) For a comprehensive
specification for cement see
CESWI 7th edition.
Type
Standard
Portland (CEM1)
BS EN 197-1
Sulphate-resisting Portland
BS 4027
b) be combinations, complying with BS 8500-1 Annex A, of CEM

1 cement conforming to BS EN 197-1 and fly ash conforming to
BS EN 450-1 or blastfurnace slag conforming to BS EN 15167-1.
2. For precast concrete pipes or inspection chambers complying
with BS EN 1916, BS EN 1917 and BS 5911, a minimum class 3,
sulphate-resistant cement shall be used unless the Undertaker
can be satisfied that a lower class will resist attack from soils and
groundwater.
D2.6
(i) The alternative mixes are
broadly
equivalent
(see
Table 3 of PD 6472) but the
use of lime putty or
plasticiser gives additional
plasticity (see BS EN 998-1
and BS EN 998-2).
MORTAR
1. Mortar shall be mixed only as and when required, in the

relevant proportions indicated in Table D.2, until its colour and
consistency are uniform. The constituent materials shall be
accurately gauged, allowance being made for bulking of sand.
Table D.2
Alternative nominal mixes by volume
(ii) The cement:lime:sand

mortar is consistent with
Category 1.12 of BS EN 9981 and BS EN 998-2 and,
together with the cement:
sand:mortar, is consistent
with Designation (i) ready-touse mortar in BS EN 998-2.
Cement:lime:sand
Cement:sand
Cement:sand with
plasticiser
1::3
1:3
1 : 2 to 3
2. Ready-mixed lime, sand for mortar and ready-to-use retarded

mortar shall comply with the relevant provisions of BS EN 998-1
and BS EN 998-2 and be of Category 1.12 and Designation (i),
respectively.
3. All mortar shall be conveyed fresh to the Works as required for
use. Mortar which has begun to set or which has been site-mixed
for a period of more than one hour shall not be used. Plasticising
and set-retarding mortar admixtures shall comply with BS EN
934-3 and shall be supplied with instructions for use.
D2.7
(i) Where necessary, the
surface finish should be
shown on the Drawings.
PRECAST CONCRETE PRODUCTS
1. Constituent materials of precast concrete products shall

comply with the relevant requirements of this Specification,
except where an appropriate European or British Standard
includes specified requirements to the contrary.
2. Except where otherwise agreed or specified in a relevant
European or British Standard, the surface finish of precast
concrete products shall be Rough Finish for surfaces next to
earth and Fair Finish elsewhere.
3. Precast concrete slabs and cover frame seating rings shall
comply with the relevant provisions of BS EN 1917 and BS 59113.
D2.8
(i) IGN 4-11-01 deals with

vitrified clay pipes and
fittings.
(ii) The type of joint and
jointing materials for extra
chemically-resistant
pipes
should be shown on the
VITRIFIED CLAY PIPES AND FITTINGS
1. Vitrified clay pipes and fittings for sewers shall have flexible
mechanical joints. Pipes for foul sewers and surface water
sewers shall comply with the relevant requirements of BS EN
295-1 and BS 65 (surface water pipes only).
2. Extra chemically-resistant pipes and fittings shall comply with
the additional requirements of BS 65.
Drawings.
3. Vitrified clay jacking pipes shall conform to BS EN 295-7.

D2.9
(i) Particular requirements

from the options listed in BS
EN 1916 and BS 5911
should be described.
(ii)
Additional
protective
measures required by BRE
Special Digest No.1 to
provide resistance to the
actual ACEC (Aggressive
Chemical Environment for
Concrete class) should be
described.
CONCRETE PIPES AND FITTINGS
1. Unreinforced and reinforced concrete pipes and fittings shall

comply with the relevant provisions of BS EN 1916 and BS 59111.
2. All pipes and fittings shall have gasket-type joints of spigot and
socket or rebated form.
3. Unreinforced and reinforced concrete jacking pipes shall
comply with the relevant provisions of BS EN 1916 and BS 59111. Pipes shall withstand the jacking loads to which they will be
subjected during installation, without cracking or spalling. A
certificate shall be supplied, confirming that the pipes are suitable
for jacking and stating the distributed jacking loads for which they
were designed.
D2.10 THERMOPLASTICS PIPES AND FITTINGS
(i) BS EN 1295-1 gives

guidance on the structural
design of underground nonpressure PVC-U pipes.
1. Thermoplastics pipes, joints and fittings for gravity sewers

shall comply with the relevant provisions of BS EN 1401-1, BS
EN 1852 and BS EN 12666-1.
D2.11 JOINT SEALS AND LUBRICANTS

1. Elastomeric joint seals shall be Type WC or WG, complying
with the relevant provisions of BS EN 681-1, and shall be
obtained from the pipe manufacturer.
2. Joint lubricants for sliding joints shall have no deleterious
effect on either the joint rings or pipes, and shall be unaffected by
sewage.
3. Seals shall be tested in accordance with BS 7874 and shall
comply with the following:
a) the average loss in mass (Z) of the test pieces shall not
exceed 3.5%; and
b) there shall be no greater release of carbon black or other
fillers from the test set than from the control set when the
surface of the specimens is lightly rubbed.
4. In the case of composite seals, the requirements apply only to
those components exposed to the contents of the pipeline or
pipework.
D2.12 PIPE SURROUND MATERIALS

(i)
IGN
4-08-01
gives
guidance on pipe surround
materials.
1. Processed granular and "as-dug" bedding, sidefill and

surround materials for buried pipelines shall comply with WIS 408-02.
(ii) Any limitations on the size

and type of materials should
be described.
2. Recycled materials shall comply with BS 8500-2.
D2.13 COMPRESSIBLE
PIPELINES
FILLER
AND
PACKING
FOR
1. Compressible filler for interrupting concrete protection to pipes

shall consist of bitumen-impregnated insulating board to BS EN
622-1 and BS EN 622-4. The thickness of compressible filler
shall be as Table D.3.
Table D.3
Nominal diameter of pipe
(mm)
Thickness of compressible
filler (mm)
Less than 450

450 1200
Exceeding 1200
18
36
54
2. Compressible packing for use between pipes and precast

concrete setting blocks shall consist of bitumen damp proof
sheeting complying with BS 6398.
3. Bituminous materials shall not be put into contact with plastics
pipes.
D2.14 PRECAST CONCRETE INSPECTION CHAMBERS
(i) Particular requirements
from the options listed in BS
EN 1917 and BS 5911-3
should be shown on the
Drawings.
.
1. Precast concrete inspection chambers units shall comply with

the relevant provisions of BS EN 1917 and BS 59113. Units
which bed into bases shall be manufactured so that imposed
vertical loads are transmitted directly via the full wall thickness of
the unit. The profiles of joints between units and the underside of
slabs, shall be capable of withstanding applied loadings from
such slabs and spigot-ended sections shall only be used where
the soffit of the slab is recessed to receive them.
D2.15 PRECAST CONCRETE INSPECTION CHAMBERS

COMPONENTS
1. Precast concrete shall comply with the relevant provisions of
BS EN 1917 and BS 5911-3.
D2.16 PLASTIC CHAMBERS AND RINGS
1. Plastic chambers and rings, including demarcation chambers,
shall comply with BS EN 13598-1 or BS EN 13598-2 as
appropriate.
D2.17 INSPECTION CHAMBER COVERS AND FRAMES
(i) BS EN 124 is a minimum
performance standard only.
1. Inspection chamber covers and frames shall comply with the

relevant provisions of BS EN 124, BS 7903 and Highways
Agency Guidance Document HA 104/09. They shall be of a nonrocking design which does not rely on the use of cushion inserts.
2. Inspection chamber covers on foul-only sewers shall be of low
leakage types in order to prevent excessive surface water
ingress.
3. As a minimum, Class D 400 covers shall be used in
carriageways of roads (including pedestrian streets), hard
shoulders and parking areas used by all types of road vehicles.
4. Minimum frame depths for New Roads and Street Works Act
road categories I to IV shall be as Table D.4.
Table D.4
NRSWA road
category
Description
Minimum frame
depth (mm)
Trunk roads and dual

carriageways
150
II
All other A roads
150
III
Bus services
150
IV
All other roads except

residential cul-de-sacs
150
Residential
cul-de-sacs
100
5. Class B 125 shall be used in footways, pedestrian areas and

comparable locations.
6. In situations where traffic loading is anticipated to be heavier
than would occur on a typical residential estate distributor road
(i.e., braking or turning near a junction), a higher specification

(E600) shall be used.
7. All inspection chamber covers shall be the non-ventilating type
and shall have closed keyways.
D2.18 BRICKS AND BLOCKS
(i) The term "blocks" has
been used for precast
concrete masonry units.
1. Concrete bricks or blocks to be used in inspection chambers

shall be precast concrete masonry units, manufactured in
accordance with BS 6073-2 (partially replaced by BS EN 772-2,
containing a minimum of 350 kg per m3 of sulphate-resisting
cement and having a maximum water:cement ratio of 0.45, a
minimum compressive strength of 40 N per mm2, and a
maximum water absorption of 7%.
2. Clay bricks to be used in inspection chambers shall be solid,
Class B engineering bricks complying with the relevant provisions
of BS EN 771-1.
3. The shapes and dimensions of special bricks shall comply with
the relevant provisions of BS 4729.
4. All bricks shall have freeze/thaw designation F2.
5. All bricks shall have active soluble salts content designation
S2.
D2.19 FLEXIBLE COUPLINGS
1. Flexible couplings for gravity sewerage and drainage pipes
shall comply with the provisions of WIS 4-41-01 and BS EN 2954.
D3
EXCAVATION AND BACKFILLING
D3.1
EXCAVATION
1. Operations shall be carried out in such a manner as to prevent

damage to, or deterioration of, the formation of excavations.
2. Excavation in roads and streets shall be carried out in
accordance with the relevant Highway Reinstatement
Specification.
3. Excavations in locations where services may be encountered
shall be carried out in accordance with HSG 47 Avoiding Danger
from Underground Services.
4. Trenches shall be excavated so that the effective width is
maintained within any limit imposed by the design of the pipeline.
The sides of excavations shall be adequately supported at all
times and, except where permitted, shall not be battered.
5. If ground in the formations is encountered which is considered
unsuitable, or if the formation is damaged or allowed to
deteriorate, the Undertaker shall be promptly informed.

6. Soft spots shall be removed from the bottom of trenches and
other excavations, which shall then be refilled to formation level
with the same material as the permanent work which is to rest on
that formation. Any void which results from over-excavation
below formation level shall be refilled in the same manner.
7. Excavated granular material which can be reused shall be kept
separate from excavated cohesive materials.
D3.2
(i) A Discharge Consent may
be
required
from
the
Environment Agency.
(ii)
Pollution
Prevention
Guidance PPG 5 and 6
published
by
the
Environment Agency should
be applied.
DEALING WITH WATER
1. Water shall not be allowed to accumulate in any part of the

Works. Water arising from, or draining into, the Works shall be
drained or pumped to a consented disposal point. Any drainage
sumps required shall, where practicable, be sited outside the
area excavated for the permanent Works, and shall be refilled
with either DoT Type 1 granular sub-base material or lean
concrete Grade GEN1 (C10) to the level of the underside of the
adjacent permanent Works.
2. All necessary precautions shall be taken to prevent any
adjacent ground from being adversely affected by loss of fines
through any dewatering process.
3. Discharges to sewers shall not take place without the consent
of the Undertaker.
D3.3
(i) The Highway Authority

may impose requirements for
backfilling under existing
highways.
BACKFILLING
1. Backfilling shall, wherever practicable, be undertaken

immediately when the specified operations preceding it have
been completed. Backfilling shall not, however, be commenced
until the works to be covered have achieved a strength sufficient
to withstand all loading imposed thereon.
2. Backfilling shall be undertaken in such a manner as to avoid
uneven loading or damage.
3. Filling material shall be deposited in layers not exceeding
225 mm unconsolidated thickness, and then fully compacted to
form a stable backfill. Where the excavation is within 1 m of the
outside of the edge of the carriageway (or proposed
carriageway), the fill material shall be such as to permit adequate
drainage. Where the excavations have been supported and the
supports are to be removed, these, where practicable, shall be
withdrawn progressively as backfilling proceeds, in such a
manner as to minimise the danger of collapse, and all voids
formed behind the supports shall be carefully filled and
compacted.
4. Backfilling and reinstatement in roads and streets shall be
above the level of any pipe surround required, in accordance with
the relevant Highway Reinstatement Specification.

5. Filling material to excavations not situated in highways or
prospective highways shall be placed and compacted to form a
stable backfill.
6. Hardcore shall consist of clean, hard, durable material
uniformly graded from 200 mm to 20 mm, and be free from
extraneous matter.
7. Selected fill, whether selected from locally-excavated material
or imported, shall consist of uniform, readily-compactible
material. Fill shall be free from vegetable matter, building rubbish
and frozen material or materials susceptible to spontaneous
combustion, and shall exclude clay of liquid limit greater than 80
and/or plastic limit greater than 55 and materials of excessively
high moisture content. Clay lumps and stones retained on 75 mm
and 37.5 mm sieves, respectively, shall be excluded from the fill
material.
D3.4
REINSTATEMENT USING FOAMED CONCRETE
1. Reinstatement of openings in highways and roads using

foamed concrete shall comply with the British Cement
Association publication Foamed Concrete A Specification for
Use in Reinstatement of Openings in Highways.
2. The pipe surround material shall be protected from the foamed
concrete by an impermeable layer.
D4
CONSTRUCTION OF GRAVITY SEWERS
D4.1
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION
(i) The following publications

give recommendations on
standards of good practice
for
the
installation
of
pipelines on land:
1. Where socketed pipes are required to be laid on a granular or

sand bed or directly on a trench bottom, joint holes shall be
formed in the bedding material or excavated formation to ensure
that each pipe is uniformly supported throughout the length of its
barrel and to enable the joint to be made.
BS 5955-6 Code of Practice

for
the
Installation
of
Unplasticized PVC Pipework
for Gravity Drains and
Sewers;
2. Pipes shall be laid on setting blocks only where a concrete bed

or cradle is used.
Principles of Laying Sewers,

is a guide to good site
practice available from Water
UK;
BS EN 752 Drain and Sewer
Systems Outside Buildings;
BS EN 1610 Construction
3. Where pipes are required to be bedded directly on the trench

bottom, the formation shall be trimmed and levelled to provide
even bedding of the pipeline and shall be free from all extraneous
matter that may damage the pipe, pipe coating or sleeving.
4. Pipes and fittings shall be examined for damage and the joint
surfaces and components shall be cleaned immediately before
laying.
5. Suitable measures shall be taken to prevent soil or other
material from entering pipes, and each pipe shall be anchored to
prevent flotation or other movement before the Works are
and Testing of Drains and

Sewers; and
BS 8000-14 'Workmanship
on Building Sites. Code of
Practice for Below Ground
Drainage'.
complete.
6. Where pipeline marker tapes are specified, they shall be laid
between 100 mm and 300 mm above the pipe. Where a tracer
system is specified, it shall be continuous and adequately
secured to valves and fittings.
D4.2
(i)
IGN
4-08-01
gives
guidance on pipe surround
materials.
(ii) Geotextile membranes
may be an acceptable
alternative to the use of clay
stanks.
(iii) Full bed and surround
may not be required for rigid,
large
diameter
pipes.
Reference should be made
to
manufacturers
instructions.
1. Bedding for pipes shall be constructed by spreading and

compacting granular bedding material over the full width of the
pipe trench. After the pipes have been laid, additional granular
material shall, if required, be placed and compacted equally on
each side of the pipes and, where practicable, this shall be done
in sequence with the removal of the trench supports.
2. Where in the opinion of the Undertaker the flow of groundwater
is likely to transport fine soil particles, water stops of puddle clay
extending up through the bedding and sidefill shall be placed
across the trench and immediately downstream of any temporary
works.
3. In bad ground conditions, where the migration of the pipe
granular surround into the ground may occur or fines may be
moved from the surround material into the bedding material
causing a lack of support of the bedding, the surround shall be
wrapped in geotextile membrane (see BS 9295:2010 Clause
A.13, Figures A.5 and A.6).
D4.3
(i) Full bed and surround

may not be required for rigid,
large diameter pipes.
PIPE BEDDING
PIPE SURROUND
1. Pipe surround material shall, where required, be placed and

compacted over the full width of the trench in layers not
exceeding 150 mm before compaction, to a finished thickness of
300 mm above the crown of the pipes.
2. Subsequent backfilling shall then be carried out as specified in
Section 3.3.
D4.4
i) Proprietary joints are
required to be made in
accordance
with
the
manufacturers instructions.
(ii) The remaining flexibility is
required for any subsequent
settlement
or
ground
movement.
PIPE JOINTING GENERALLY
1. Pipe jointing surfaces and components shall be kept clean and

free from extraneous matter until the joints have been made or
assembled. Care shall be taken to ensure that there is no ingress
of grout or other extraneous material into the joint annulus after
the joint has been made.
2. Site fusion jointing in polyethylene pressure pipelines shall be
undertaken in accordance with the relevant provisions of WIS 432-08.
3. Where PE pipes are used, a fully-welded system shall be used
and the number of joints minimised. Mechanical or electrofusion
joints shall not be used.
4. Proprietary joints shall be made in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions.
D4.5
CUTTING PIPES
1. Pipes shall be cut in accordance with the manufacturers

recommendations to provide a clean square profile without
splitting or fracturing the pipe wall and causing minimal damage
to any protective coating. Where necessary, the cut ends of pipes
shall be formed to the tapers and chamfers suitable for the type
of joint to be used.
2. Where ductile iron pipes are to be cut to form non-standard
lengths, the manufacturers recommendations in respect of
ovality correction and tolerances to the cut spigot end shall be
complied with.
3. Where concrete pipes are cut, any exposed reinforcement
shall be sealed with an epoxy-resin mortar.
4. Pre-stressed concrete pipes shall not be cut on site.
5. Particular safety precautions shall be taken to avoid inhalation
of dust when cutting asbestos-cement pipes.
D4.6
CONNECTIONS TO GRAVITY SEWERS
1. Where junction pipes for future connections are required, they

shall be inserted, as necessary, during construction of the
sewers, and the ends of connections and pipes not needed for
immediate use shall be effectively sealed with a plug. The
position of all junctions shall be recorded by measurement from
the centre of the manhole cover immediately downstream, and
notified to the Undertaker before backfilling is carried out.
2. Connections shall be made using standard pre-formed
junctions, where possible. Saddle connections to existing sewers
shall only be allowed when the internal diameter of the major
pipe is at least 150 mm greater than the internal diameter of the
branch pipe.
3. Pipe saddles for concrete or clay sewers shall be bedded in
Class M1 mortar and a mortar fillet formed to give a cover of at
least 50 mm to the base of the saddle.
D4.7 TOLERANCES IN GRAVITY SEWERS AND LATERAL
DRAINS
(i) Lines and levels for
sewers and lateral drains
should be as shown on the
Drawings.
1. The position of the internal face of any sewer or lateral drain

shall not deviate from the line and level described in the
Agreement, or agreed variation, by more than 20 mm.
2. No pipe in a sewer or lateral drain shall have a reverse
gradient.
3. The joint displacement, being the difference in level or
alignment between the adjacent ends of two adjoining pipes at a
joint, shall not exceed the least of 5% of the nominal diameter of
the pipe or 20 mm.
4. The angular displacement at a joint, being the difference in the
alignment of two adjacent pipes, shall not exceed 2 except
where the joint has been specifically designed and manufactured
to accommodate a larger displacement.
5. Flexible pipes shall have a limit of 6% deformation.
D5
CONSTRUCTION OF INSPECTION CHAMBERS
D5.1
PRECAST CONCRETE INSPECTION CHAMBERS
1. Precast concrete inspection chamber sections for inspection

chambers shall be constructed with steps, ladders and slabs
aligned correctly.
2. The jointing material for precast units shall be mortar,
proprietary plastomeric or elastomeric seal with load bearing
distribution, with the concrete surfaces prepared in accordance
with the manufacturers recommendations.
3. Joints shall be made so that the required jointing material fills
the joint cavity. Concrete to concrete contact across the joint
shall not be permitted. Any surplus jointing material which is
extruded inside the manhole, chamber or wet well shall be
trimmed off and joints shall be pointed on completion.
4. Concrete surrounds to manholes, chambers and the wet well
shall be Grade GEN3 and the height of each concrete pour shall
not exceed 2 m. Each construction joint shall break joint with the
precast sections by at least 150 mm.
5. Cements are to achieve BRE Digest Class 4 sulphate
resistance.
D5.2
IN-SITU INVERTS AND BENCHINGS
1. Inverts and benchings in inspection chambers shall have a

screeded, ridged finish and shall have a smooth, high-strength
concrete topping applied with a steel trowel before the concrete
has set.
D5.3
PIPES AND JOINTS ADJACENT TO STRUCTURES
1. Where rigid pipes are used, a flexible joint shall be provided as

close as is feasible to the outside face of any structure into which
a pipe is built, within 150 mm for pipe diameters less than
300 mm. The design of the joints shall be compatible with any
subsequent movement.
2. The recommended length of the next pipe (rocker pipe) away
from the structure shall be as shown in Table D.5.
Table D.5
Nominal diameter
(mm)
Maximum effective length

(m)
150 to 600
600 to 750
over 750
0.6
1.0
1.25
3. Stub pipes into structures shall be of rigid material.

D5.4 SETTING INSPECTION CHAMBERS COVERS AND
FRAMES
1. Inspection chamber frames shall be set to level, bedded and
haunched externally over the base and sides of the frame in
mortar, in accordance with the manufacturers instructions. The
frame shall be seated on at least two courses of Class B
engineering bricks, on precast concrete masonry units or on
precast concrete cover frame seating rings to regulate the
distance between the top of the cover and the top rung to no
greater than 675 mm. A mortar fillet shall be provided where the
corners to an opening in a slab are chamfered and the brickwork
is not flush with the edges of the opening.
2. Frames for inspection chamber covers shall be bedded in a
polyester resin bedding mortar in all situations where covers are
sited in NRSWA Road Categories I, II or III (i.e., all except
residential cul-de-sacs).
D5.5
NON-MAN INSPECTION CHAMBERS
1. Non-man inspection chambers shall comply with the relevant

provisions of BS EN 752.
(i) The action to be taken in

the event of failure to satisfy
the tests specified has only
been referred to in general
terms where the text so
requires (see also Section
D1.3).
D6
CLEANSING AND TESTING
D6.1
CLEANSING OF GRAVITY SEWERS AND MANHOLES
1. On completion of construction, internal surfaces of sewers,

inspection chambers and other access points shall be thoroughly
cleansed to remove all deleterious matter, without such matter
being passed forward into existing public sewers or
watercourses. The sewers and manholes shall be maintained in
a clean and serviceable condition until they are vested as public
sewers.
D6.2
(i) Visual examination may

include the use of CCTV
and/or light-line inspections
TESTING OF GRAVITY SEWERS
1. Sewers shall be tested after they are jointed and before any
concreting or backfilling is commenced, other than such as may
be necessary for structural stability whilst under test.
2. Sewers up to and including 750 mm nominal diameter shall be
tested by means of an air or water test.
3. An air test shall be carried out after the backfilling is complete.
4. The pipelines shall be tested by means of a visual or closedcircuit television (CCTV) examination, in lengths determined by
the course of construction, in accordance with the programme.
For flexible pipes, the CCTV examination shall use light rings to
measure deformations.
D6.3
(i) BS EN 1610 Construction

and Testing of Drains and
Sewers gives advice on
testing requirements.
AIR TEST FOR GRAVITY SEWERS
1. Sewers to be air tested, including adopted laterals up to

demarcation chambers, shall have air pumped in by a suitable
means until a pressure of 100 mm head of water is indicated in a
U-tube connected to the system. The sewer shall be accepted if
the air pressure remains above 75 mm head of water after a
period of five minutes without further pumping, following a period
for stabilisation. Failure to pass the test shall not preclude
acceptance of the pipeline if a successful water test can
subsequently be carried out in accordance with Section D6.4.
D6.4
WATER TEST FOR GRAVITY SEWERS
1. The test pressure for sewers shall not be less than 1.2 m head
of water above the pipe soffit or groundwater level, whichever is
the higher, at the highest point, and not greater than 6 m head at
the lowest point of the section. Steeply-graded sewers shall be
tested in stages in cases where the maximum head, as stated
above, would be exceeded if the whole section were tested in
one length.
2. The sewer shall be filled with water and a minimum period of
two hours shall be allowed for absorption, after which water shall
be added from a measuring vessel at intervals of five minutes
and the quantity required to maintain the original water level
noted, following which the original water level shall be restored.

Unless otherwise specified, the length of sewer shall be accepted
if the quantity of water added over a 30-minute period is less than
0.5 litres per linear metre of sewer per metre of nominal
diameter.
3. Notwithstanding the satisfactory completion of the above test,
if there is any discernible leakage of water from any pipe or joint,
the pipe shall be replaced and/or the joint remade, as
appropriate, and the test repeated until leakage is stopped.
D6.5
(i) A visual survey may
include the use of CCTV
and/or internal survey, or
walk-through inspection.
(ii) The ratio described in

D6.5.2 may be approximated
to
(i)
The
permissible
infiltration is the same as the
permissible loss in the water
test in section D6.4.
(ii) Infiltration rate is based
on the 0.15
calculation
included in BS EN 1610.
VISUAL INSPECTION OF GRAVITY SEWERS
1. A visual survey shall be carried out by a qualified and

approved contractor, and in accordance with the Model Contract
Document for Sewer Condition Inspection 2nd edition.
2. Light ring survey equipment shall be calibrated to measure the
cross-sectional dimensions and the pipe ovality to within 1%,
where ovality is defined as the ratio between the difference
between the maximum internal diameter and the mean internal
diameter, and the mean internal diameter.
D6.6
INFILTRATION
1. Non-pressure pipelines and manholes shall be inspected and

tested for infiltration after backfilling. All inlets to the system shall
be effectively closed and any residual flow shall be deemed to be
infiltration.
2. The pipeline and manholes shall be accepted as satisfactory if
the infiltration; including infiltration into manholes, in 30 minutes
does not exceed 0.5 litres per linear metre of pipeline per metre
of nominal bore.
3. Notwithstanding the satisfactory completion of the above
inspection or test, if there is any discernible flow of water entering
the sewers or manholes which can be seen either by visual or
CCTV inspection, such measures as are necessary to stop such
infiltration shall be taken.
D6.7 WATERTIGHTNESS OF INSPECTION CHAMBERS
AND CHAMBERS
1. These shall be inspected to ensure that they are watertight
with no identifiable flow of water penetrating the chamber.

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Sewers for Adoption

- A Design and Construction Guide for Developers Small

Taken from the Seventh edition

Published by WRc plc, Frankland Road, Blagrove, Swindon,

drained only by gravity (i.e. no adoptable pumping stations);

where pipes are installed using conventional open trench construction;

not involving any on-site casting of reinforced concrete structures.

PART B DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF

1. Separate foul and surface water systems should be provided.

LAYOUT AND ACCESS

there is at least 900 mm separating the buildings or structures where a single

domestic gardens and pathways without any possibility of vehicular access,

See Clause B2.1.10

Not normally permitted

Not to scale, dimensions in millimetres

900 minimum for single pipe and

Not to scale, dimensions in millimetres

Not preferred See Clause B2.1.3

Additional inspection chambers give

Chambers not fully accessible

Chambers not fully accessible

at every change of alignment, gradient or pipe material;

Figure B.7 Access Type Selection

No junction less than 90

Preformed swept channels

Rocker pipe required

Manhole cover to suit BS EN 124 loading

Precast concrete slab

DOT Type 1 sub base

Temporarily cap shaft

Minimum internal dimensions

DOT Type 1 sub base

Joints between base and

Base unit to have all

Granular bedding material

Invert of connecting pipe at least

Note: Where the access chamber is in the highway the

Cover complying with

Sited in domestic driveways or footways

Access opening restricted

150 mm deep concrete collar

Minimum internal dimensions

Sited in domestic gardens

Cover complying with

Mortar bedding and haunching

Temporarily cap shaft

Minimum internal dimensions

Note: Where the access chamber is in the highway the

Mortar bedding and haunching to

Manhole cover to suit BS EN 124 loading

1-4 precast concrete cover

Cover slab with

Temporarily cap manhole

Precast concrete sections to

Minimum internal dimensions

DOT Type 1 sub base

Pipes built into chamber

Base unit to have all

Granular bedding material