New guidelines for working near our assets
We’ve updated the technical guidelines you need to follow when planning planning construction, excavation or landscaping work near our water infrastructure. To protect our essential services and safeguard Western Australia’s drinking water supply, it is essential for anyone planning work near our assets to follow these standards.
The latest edition of these guidelines introduces new and updated requirements in a user-friendly format, featuring diagrams and photos for easier understanding.
We’ve included a dedicated email address for our protection of assets team throughout the document for quick assistance.
Why are the guidelines needed?
The guidelines contain important information and advice about working safely near our assets and reducing the risk of potential damage or injury. They outline:
- When you are required to seek approval from us prior to starting work
- Options for reducing your risk of potential damage or injury
- The requirements for protecting our assets
Did you know?
If you are undertaking work in, on, over, under or within the prescribed proximities to our assets, you have a statutory requirement under section 90 of the Water Services Act 2012 (WA) to seek approval from us prior to starting work.
Important guideline updates
These changes are important for you understand before starting work. Here’s a summary of the key updates in this revision.
1. Offsets now measured from pipe edge
Offsets are now calculated from the edge of the pipe, not the centreline. This ensures accurate separation between Water Corporation assets and structures. All building application diagrams have been updated.
2. Updated prescribed proximity table
The proximity requirements for working near our assets have changed. Please review the updated table to see if approval is needed for your work.
3. Enhanced tree planting section
To prevent damage to our assets from root intrusion, clarifications are included based on the latest tree planting guide and information sheets.
4. Drinking water source protection requirements
New requirements ensure that planned activities in water source zones undergo the correct review process and endorsement.
5. New section for above-ground pipelines
The guidelines now include specific requirements for working near raised pipelines, which differ from those for buried assets.
6. Updated potholing requirements
Potholing activity requirements now include the use of pressure jetting for breaking up the ground. This comes with a maximum pressure rating and fan spray specifications.
7. Updated external links
Relevant links within the guidelines document have been updated to reflect changes to external websites (certified locators have now been replaced with skilled locators as per the BYDA information.)
Getting approval to work near our assets
If you’re planning to work near our assets, you’ll need approval. Here’s how it works:
1. Apply - Providing comprehensive details of the proposed work.
2. Assessment - We review your plans to identify risks.
3. Receive conditions of approval - Outlining what you need to do.
4. Complete works safely - Following the agreed conditions.