Water Loss Control Manual

Julian Thornton
Case Study One
Water Leak Survey: A Performance-Based Approach Vernon W. (Wes) Frye, P.E. Paul V. Johnson, P.E.
In this chapter we discuss how to prepare for interventions necessary in the field to resolve real and apparent loss problems located through the auditing and modeling phases discussed earlier in the book.
Most larger utilities have some kind of in-house expertise with knowledge of how to undertake a water audit or intervention against loss on either apparent or real losses. However, often these people have other duties, which make it hard for them to concentrate on the specialized tasks in an ongoing manner.
Many smaller utilities or industrial/commercial/institutional (ICI) systems do not have the in-house expertise and equipment necessary for a full audit and analysis of the water system.
If either the people cannot be dedicated to the job or they are not available, the decision is easy a consultant or contractor should be employed to undertake the audit and subsequent intervention.
If staff are available, the following steps should be taken to organize a dedicated crew for loss control.
If in-house staff is not available or cannot be fully committed, then a consultant or contractor should be used.
Identify a team leader who will be full-time loss control supervisor.
Identify the necessary test equipment for taking field measurements.
Ensure that the equipment can be periodically tested for accuracy locally and is supported by a local...