Flood Products Tested

The new simulator will test products aimed at protecting homes against flooding. Testing will be available for all parts of the PAS1188 (2009) specification, including property protection products, temporary defences, demountable defences and property skirt systems. The tank will be filled with thousands of gallons of water to simulate a severe flood. If products pass the tests, they will be awarded a Kitemark symbol to show they meet new industry standards.

The Environment Agency said the testing site at HR Wallingford's hydraulic laboratory would ensure new products entering the market are robust and effective in the face of flood waters.
It wants local authorities, which spend money from the Environment Department's GBP5m grant scheme, to protect individual properties from flooding to ensure they install products with the Kitemark.

Robert Runcie, the Environment Agency's director of flood and coastal risk management, said: "The new testing facility and industry standard will help those at risk make informed choices and have confidence in the flood products they buy, as well as encouraging new product development."

He said one in six homes across England and Wales were at risk of flooding, and the number was likely to rise with climate change. "We want to encourage individuals and businesses to help themselves by making their property more resistant to flooding," he added.

To arrange product testing or to visit the facilities please contact HR Wallingford .