Chlorination and disinfection

Ensuring safe, compliant water systems for new and existing installations

Disinfection

Chlorination and disinfection for compliant water systems

DWT delivers chlorination and disinfection services for domestic water, process water and cooling water systems. We work to BS 8558, PD 855468 and ACOP L8 requirements, helping clients achieve safe, compliant systems ready for operation.

Industrial water treatment room with pipes and a container labeled DWT Chlor15 warning for sodium hypochlorite.

Microbial control

Eliminates bacteria and pathogens before handover

Regulatory compliance

Meets BS8558, PD8544:68, HTM-04 HSG 274 and ACOP L8 requirements

Certified handover

Test certificates and disinfection records provided.

Occupant safety

Protects occupants from waterborne contamination risks

Water test kit with reagent bottle and color comparison charts for free chlorine and pH levels.
Applications

Where we deliver disinfection

Chlorination and disinfection services for new installations, refurbishments and remedial projects.

New small pipework installations

Chlorination of tea points breaks out areas and vending points to comply with building management standards.

Upgrade projects

Integrate disinfection into upgrade and replacement works.

Post-contamination
treatment

Rapid response following contamination events or failed microbiological testing.

Storage tank disinfection

Annual inspection, cleaning and disinfection of cold water storage tanks and hot water cylinders

Running water from a chrome faucet into a white sink in a hospital room with a bed in the background.

Domestic water systems

Disinfect hot and cold water systems to support safe handover and regulatory compliance.

Standards & Compliance
All chlorination works are carried out in accordance with BS 8558, HSG274 Part 2 and ACOP L8, with validation testing and certification provided on completion.
Worker in high-visibility vest holding chlorine test vial and color chart against industrial water system background.
Process

How we disinfect your system

A structured chlorination process that delivers compliant, documented and safe water systems ready for handover.

01

Site

Assessment

Assess system requirements

We review drawings, inspect pipework and calculate system volume to determine the correct chlorination method, dosage and programme.

Industrial water pump system with large white tank and interconnected pipes in a concrete room.
02

Chlorine

Dosing

Apply approved biocides

We introduce chlorine at calculated concentrations, typically 20-50 mg/l depending on system type and regulatory requirements.

Industrial water treatment room with pipes and a container labeled DWT Chlor15 warning for sodium hypochlorite.
03

Retention

Contact

Maintain contact time

Chlorine is circulated for a duration of one hour at a concentration of 50 ppm to ensure comprehensive microbial eradication. Alternative chemicals and contact times may also be considered based on specific requirements.

Water test kit with reagent bottle and color comparison charts for free chlorine and pH levels.
04

Flush

Validation

Remove residual chlorine

We flush the system thoroughly, neutralise residual chlorine, and conduct validation sampling to confirm disinfection success.

Worker in hard hat and safety vest draining water from a hose into a floor drain in industrial setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about chlorination, disinfection standards and water system compliance.

When is chlorination required?

Chlorination is commonly required for new water systems before handover, following contamination incidents, after major refurbishment works and during storage tank disinfection. Requirements are typically determined by BS 8558, HTM 04-01 and project specifications.

What chlorine concentrations do you use?

Typical chlorination concentrations range from 20–50 mg/l free chlorine, depending on system type, volume and regulatory requirements. Dosing levels are selected to achieve effective disinfection while protecting system components.

How long does the disinfection process take?

The retention period typically lasts 1 hour at 50ppm, allowing chlorine to circulate and eliminate bacteria throughout the system. Total project duration depends on system size, complexity and the flushing and validation phases required after disinfection.

Do you offer alternatives to chlorine?

Yes. We also provide silver-stabilised hydrogen peroxide and other approved disinfection methods where chlorine may not be suitable. The most appropriate treatment is selected based on system requirements and client objectives.

How is disinfection verified?

Disinfection is verified through water quality testing and, where required, microbiological sampling. Test certificates and disinfection records are issued to provide a clear audit trail and evidence of compliance.

Can disinfection be combined with other services?

Yes. Chlorination can be delivered alongside pre-commission cleaning, storage tank cleaning, water sampling and commissioning support, providing a complete solution before system handover.

Need technical advice?

Contact DWT for project-specific disinfection guidance

Ready to Discuss Your Project?

Speak with our team about water treatment, pre-commission cleaning, chlorination, commissioning and water hygiene support.