PE Service Pipe Disconnection Phase 2

The field trial offers strong potential for new learning across technical, operational, and regulatory dimensions:

• Real-world applicability limits

  The trial will generate clear evidence on which service configurations are suitable or unsuitable (e.g. pipe lengths, diameter changes, bends). This helps define realistic boundaries for use and informs future design improvements.

• Performance in live network conditions

  While workshop testing shows strong results, the trial will provide learning on how the foam isolation performs under true operational variables such as installation variability, environmental conditions, and network pressures over time.

• Operational behaviour and human factors

  Feedback from operatives will highlight:

  • Ease of installation
  • Common errors or deviations
  • Training adequacy
  • Suitability for lone working

  This learning can drive refinements to procedures, kit design, and training models.

• Cost and productivity validation

  The project will provide real data on:

  • Actual job times
  • Labour and resource savings
  • Avoided excavation and reinstatement costsThis supports stronger business cases and future regulatory submissions.

• Service population insight

  Capturing how many services can versus cannot be treated with this method improves understanding of the national PE service estate and informs future investment and planning strategies.

• Risk and assurance learning

  Monitoring near misses, deviations, or unexpected behaviours will enhance understanding of residual risks and strengthen safety cases for similar non-excavation techniques.

• Regulatory and assurance frameworks

  Engagement with HSE during the trial provides learning on how goal-setting regulation can be satisfied using innovative techniques, potentially shaping how future innovations are evidenced and approved.

• Future innovation opportunities

  Learning from current limitations (e.g. diameter changes, bends) can directly inform:

  • Enhanced plug or foam designs
  • New deployment tools
  • Broader application to other service types