BS EN 1444:2001

What is BS EN 1444 - Guidance for on-site working methods for fibre-cement pipes about?  

BS EN 1444 is a European Standard on fibre-cement pipelines. The main aim of BS EN 1444 is to prevent the release of fibres into the air and to protect public health, safety, and the environment while removing, repairing and disposing of asbestos/fibre cement pipes. 

BS EN 1444 applies to both types of fibre-cement pipes AT and NT as defined in EN 512:1994, gives installation recommendations for these pipelines in above or below ground situations.  

BS EN 1444 complements the general principles for all types of water supply systems specified in EN 805:2000, “Water supply - Requirements for systems and components outside buildings”, and should be used in conjunction with that standard. 

Note: BS EN 1444 does not cover the following: 

• Installation by thrust boring and pipe jacking methods which require the use of highly specialized techniques 
• Problems caused by the use of special installations procedures (e.g., removal of pile sheeting in very deep trenches, etc.) 

Who is BS EN 1444 - Guidance for on-site working methods for fibre-cement pipes for? 

BS EN 1444 on guidance for on-site working methods for fibre-cement pipes is useful for: 

• Cement industry 
• Manufacturers of pipeline components and pipelines 
• Tool designers for cutting and machining fibre-cement pipes 
• Operators 
• Manufacturers of pipe fittings and couplings
• Construction materials manufacturers and suppliers 
• Water distribution systems 

Why should you use BS EN 1444 - Guidance for on-site working methods for fibre-cement pipes?  

Guidance for on-site working for fibre-cement pipes is necessary to provide suitable protection for workers and the general public during fibre cement pipe projects. It must include existing regulations related to testing and concentrations of asbestos/ fibres in drinking water, fibre cement pipe project management, worker protection measures, and existing disposal practices for broken pipes. 

In this regard, BS EN 1444 provides the requirements for the execution of construction work, transit, handling, and storage of pipe joints and fittings. 

BS EN 1444 specifies the types of beddings and embedments used in the installation of fibre-cement pipes, as well as the excavation and trench preparation. 

BS EN 1444 sets out the examination of components before laying, the lowering of pipes, joints, and fittings into the trench, and the selection and use of permitted tools for cutting and machining fibre-cement pipes. 

As a result, if you are a manufacturer of fibre-cement pipes, complying with BS EN 1444, can assist you to demonstrate the ability of materials to contribute to the intended use. Thus, the advice document walks you through the criteria and explains how to safely remove, repair, and dispose of fibre cement pipes that are repaired or replaced in underground system networks controlled by public and commercial utilities.