Blackfriars Priory Donate
Blackfriars Hall > Wastewater Disposal, Blockage Management, and Maintenance Response

Wastewater Disposal, Blockage Management, and Maintenance Response

How we manage wastewater disposal in our accommodation

  1. Purpose

This procedure ensures that:

  • All wastewater in Blackfriars Hall accommodation is removed through appropriate trapped connections to the sewerage system.
  • All installations and systems comply with UK statutory requirements.
  • Blockages and maintenance requests are being handled efficiently, safely, and consistently.

 

  1. Statutory Compliance

All wastewater disposal systems must comply with:

  • Building Regulations 2010 – Approved Document H (Drainage & Waste Disposal)
  • Water Industry Act 1991
  • Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999
  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
  • Local Thames Water requirements (for sewer connections and discharges)

 

  1. Ensuring Proper Wastewater Disposal Through Trapped Connections

3.1 Installation Standards

All fixtures (sinks, showers, WCs, basins, dishwashers, washing machines, floor drains) must:

  • Be connected via appropriate water traps (e.g., P?trap, bottle trap, S?trap).
  • Maintain a minimum 50 mm water seal to prevent backflow of odours.
  • Be connected to the foul water system, not storm drains.
  • Use pipework and fittings compliant with Building Regulations Part H.

 

3.2 Inspection and Verification

Facilities staff must ensure that:

  • All traps are present, secure, and accessible for clearing.
  • Pipe falls/slopes support correct flow (self?cleansing gradient).
  • No cross-connections or direct untrapped connections exist.
  • Anti?siphon measures (ventilation or air admittance valves) are in place where required.

 

 

3.3 Routine Monitoring

  • Monthly (WCS/Clearwater): Visual inspections of accessible traps and pipework as part of routine monthly water management and maintenance.
  • Quarterly (WCS/Clearwater): Functional checks for slow draining, gurgling, or odour issues.
  • Annually: Review of the wastewater system and external access points, with appropriate contractor input.

 

Findings are recorded in the Every management system.

 

  1. Resident Responsibilities

Residents must:

  • Dispose of waste responsibly (no wipes, grease, food scraps, sanitary products, or foreign items).
  • Report blockages, slow drainage, leaks, or odours immediately.
  • Use facilities as instructed in the accommodation guidelines.

 

Failure to follow proper use guidelines may result in disciplinary process if misuse is proven.

 

  1. Procedure for Managing Blockages

5.1 Reporting a Blockage

Residents must report issues via:

  • Blackfriars Hall Bursary email address (bursary@bfriars.ox.ac.uk)
  • Emergency contact numbers for out?of?hours incidents

 

Reports should include:

  • Location
  • Description of the issue
  • Severity (slow drain, partial blockage, full blockage, overflow)
  • Time first noticed

 

5.2 Initial Assessment (Within 2 Hours for Urgent Cases)

Facilities staff classify the issue as:

  • Routine – slow drainage, non-urgent blockages
  • Urgent – complete blockage of a single fixture, strong odours
  • Emergency – flooding, sewage backup, multiple fixtures affected

 

5.3 Response Procedure

Routine Blockage

  • Inspect pipe, trap, and outlet.
  • Attempt clearing using plungers or basic drain tools.
  • If unresolved, escalate to approved plumbing contractor (within 24 hours).

 

Urgent Blockage

  • Temporarily isolate affected fixtures if required.
  • Attempt mechanical clearance (rodding/auger).
  • If unsuccessful after one hour, call external contractor.

 

Emergency Blockage

  • Immediately isolate the area.
  • Prevent access to unsafe spaces.
  • Contact emergency plumbing contractor.
  • Facilities staff coordinate clean?up, disinfection, and restoration of safe conditions.

 

5.4 Post?Clearance Actions

  • Test drainage flow.
  • Inspect traps and pipework to ensure compliance.
  • Record actions taken in the Facilities Maintenance Log.
  • Identify and record any cause (misuse, structural defect, external blockage).

 

  1. Repairs and Maintenance Procedure

6.1 Standard Repairs

  • Non?urgent repairs completed within 48 hours where possible.
  • Replacement components must comply with Part H and water fitting regulations.
  • After repair, the system must be tested for proper flow, correct trapping, and leak?free operation.

 

6.2 Major System Issues

If there is a system failure, repeated blockage, or structural defect:

  • Conduct a detailed inspection (CCTV survey if required).
  • Provide residents with updates about downtime and alternative facilities.
  • Complete repairs as soon as reasonably practicable.
  • Record findings and actions in the Annual Wastewater System Review.

 

  1. Record-Keeping

Facilities staff must maintain:

  • Logs of all inspections
  • Blockage reports and response times
  • Contractor reports and invoices
  • Annual compliance audit records
  • Records of any resident misuse (if applicable)

 

  1. Review and Continuous Improvement
  • This procedure is reviewed annually or following any significant incident.
  • Updates incorporate regulatory changes, contractor advice, and operational findings.

Â