BS 1427 describes methods for the analysis of industrial and other waters. These methods can be undertaken outside of the chemical laboratory, for example on-site tests. This guide is for testing when the purpose of the test is to characterize the water under test for quality or process control purposes. The test methods are simple procedures for use by a trained analyst or by an individual that has had appropriate training.
Since 1993, many industrial laboratories have been shut down and the use of on-site methods increased significantly. Non-analysts using proprietary test-kits carry out a very significant proportion of these tests.
This revision of BS 1427 contains updates to specific methods since the previous standard and provides guidance on the use of the much wider range of available commercial test-kits. Since 1993, the range, type and quality of commercial test-kits/apparatus have improved. The improvements include significant benefits in terms of increased reliability and ease of use for on site testing. The use of pre-packaged chemicals and reagents has also reduced health and safety risks associated with handling chemicals and enhanced the simplicity of testing.
Most of the methods described in this standard apply to use on clean or lightly polluted waters which might have undergone treatment or been modified for industrial use.
The types of waters that are normally tested include:
a) Boiler waters
b) Cooling waters
c) Waters from hot water systems
d) Waters from air conditioning systems
e) Waters from industrial air washing systems
f) Potable waters
g) Ground waters
h) Surface waters
i) Process waters
j) Swimming pool waters.
Who should use BS 1427?
- Water industry samplers and analysts
- Environmental and water treatment consultants
