WATER is doubtlessly one of the most important natural resources in the world, being something that we need to survive in our daily lives. As such, all nations should take water security seriously.
In Malaysia, any product – be it equipment, device, material, system or facility – used for water or sewerage work has to be registered with the National Water Services Commission (SPAN).
In situations where the product is new, or incorporates new technology or systems that have yet to be tried or tested, the quality and efficacy of such products need to be demonstrated through a pilot project.
Further, these need to be regularly assessed and inspected to ensure they do not pose any risks to people or the environment, particularly when it comes to water safety and supply.
Proving your project’s viability
SIRIM QAS International (SIRIM QAS) has the capability to ascertain the viability of a product or concept design. Any defects can be detected at an early stage, allowing manufacturers and suppliers to save costs and mitigate liabilities that could arise from product failure.
It is also a way to demonstrate commitment to quality and compliance with various standards and specifications.
Assessment reports by SIRIM QAS on new and innovative products, systems or parts for water and sewerage application and proof of theory according to standards, are well recognised and accepted by Malaysian regulators.
A wholly-owned subsidiary of SIRIM Bhd, SIRIM QAS has been accredited by the Department of Standards Malaysia.
It is the premier certification body appointed by the Malaysian water regulators – including SPAN, the Department of Environment, the Water Asset Management Company and the National Water Operators – to conduct inspection and verification of pilot projects, in accordance with the Water Services Industry Act 2006, the Environmental Quality Act 1974 and related environmental regulations.
Hasnol is the SIRIM QAS product certification and inspection department industrial and consumer certification and inspection section 2 head.
According to SIRIM QAS product certification and inspection department industrial and consumer certification and inspection section 2 head Hasnol Zakaria, the organisation has over 17 years’ experience in carrying out testing, inspection and certification (TIC) of water and sewerage products and services, thanks to its team of expert auditors and comprehensive testing facilities.
TIC provide assurance of product quality and help facilitate market access.
SIRIM QAS’s pilot project assessment report will be the indicator for product performance and used for approval in Malaysia’s water services industries.
SIRIM QAS’s assessment and certification of products such as effluent decanting system help to heighten the capacity and performance of a sedimentation tank. The Environmental Technology Research Centre, SIRIM Berhad also provides full analytical testing services covering water quality, air quality, health hazard and toxicity.
Compliance with national standards
Aside from pilot projects, SIRIM QAS also carries out testing, certification and verification that water and sewerage products adhere to SPAN Technical Specifications (SPAN TS). Its services include:
> SPAN TS 3001:2021 Disinfection of Water – Electro-chlorination System
> SPAN TS 3002:2021 Equipment for Sludge / Residuals Treatment (Sludge Thickening and Dewatering)
> SPAN TS 3003:2021 Manhole Tops – Specification
> SPAN TS 3004:2021 Water Taps – Single and Combination Taps – Specification
> SPAN TS 3005:2021 Shower Outlet for Sanitary Tapware for Water Supply System – Specification
> SPAN TS 3006:2021 Washing Machines – Water Efficiency Performance and Related Testing Method
Organisations involved in the water and sewerage industries should therefore seek out SIRIM QAS to test and certify their products, before they are submitted to the regulator for approval.
At present, SIRIM QAS is offering savings of up to 50% for SPAN TS certification. This offer ends on Dec 31, 2022.
