Drinking water separation station

Drinking water separation station - planning, installation & maintenance

A drinking water separation station or extinguishing water transfer point serves to protect drinking water from contamination and at the same time ensures the supply of extinguishing water. This is prescribed, among other things, by the Drinking Water Ordinance and DIN 1988-600 (Technical Rules for Drinking Water Installations - Part 600: Drinking Water Installations in Connection with Fire Extinguishing and Fire Protection Systems).

Necessity of the safety separation station for drinking water and extinguishing water

A drinking water separation station prevents backflow of possibly contaminated water and is absolutely necessary. The reason for this is that extinguishing water systems are only used in case of fire. Consequently, extinguishing water often remains in the extinguishing water pipes for a long time. Thus, there is a considerable risk of dangerous bacteria (such as legionella) forming, which are life-threatening for people. According to the RKI, 5 % to 15 % of people who contract legionellosis die.

The installation of a safety separation station (also called extinguishing water transfer station) for drinking and extinguishing water is obligatory for new and existing buildings according to various standards as well as the Drinking Water Ordinance.

Good to know: In case of non-compliance with the Drinking Water Ordinance, the operator is liable for consequences such as illness or death of people! There is no general protection of older buildings.

Steps to the drinking water separation station:

In the case of a new system, the drinking water separation station or extinguishing water transfer point is directly taken into account and installed. For an existing system, the procedure is as follows. 1:

1. assessment of the extinguishing water system on site
2. planning of the safety separation station, taking into account existing deficiencies, legal regulations, ordinances and guidelines
3. adaptation of the extinguishing water supply in conformity with regulations
4. preparation of the documentation, support of the expert inspection and briefing of the operator
5. annual maintenance of the extinguishing water system - incl. drinking water separation station / extinguishing water transfer point - in accordance with the applicable standards and regulations.

All-round service from CWS: CWS Fire Safety is always available to answer any questions you may have regarding the planning, installation, commissioning and maintenance of your extinguishing water systems - including a separation station for drinking water and extinguishing water.
Contact us for a no-obligation consultation or a cost estimate for a safety separation station in your building.