Water consumption assessment at schools
In support of its Water Demand Management Strategy, and in line with the new water by-laws, the City of Cape Town (The City) undertook, and completed, a general consumption survey at schools. The focus was on 300 of the poorer schools in the region as these generally had a high wastage factor, and minimal income for infrastructure purposes.
An holistic approach began with engagement with the provincial Department of Education (DoE) and continued with the repairing of infrastructure leaks at a pilot school (Mfuleni), a survey of all schools (including an audit and assessment of wastage), the identification of shortfalls (eg infrastructure/awareness/budget), the setting up of mechanisms to deal with shortfalls, and a programme of caretaker training.
The City has provided funding to ensure that 58 schools have all leaks repaired and that bad infrastructure is reported to the DoE. Pressure reduction will also be implemented at the same 58 schools.
Phase I
Training of school caretakers commenced inAugust 2007. The two-day course has been well received and it is clear, judging by the enthusiasm of the participants to date, that the course will ensure caretakers are able to comply with the new water by-laws, and are empowered with the knowledge and skills to identify, repair and report leaks and damaged infrastructure when they return to their working environment.
The course, presented by City officials, covers theoretical training on the new water by-laws; housekeeping; and health and safety, as well as minor repairs to taps and cisterns, practical training through demonstrations and interaction by participants on actual fittings and devices which are tested, under pressure, on the first day. This is followed by a revision session and a field practical on the second day where the same caretakers are supported to fix leaks at one or two schools as part of their practical training.
To date 117 caretakers have completed the training course and repairs have been undertaken at 15 schools as part of the second day field trip. These repairs range from fitting and adjusting float valves, cisterns handles, flush pipes and connectors, to unblocking pipes, and fitting new tap washers and toilet bowls.
A number of underground leaks were also detected and reported. Damaged toilets and other infrastructure were identified for reporting to the DoE for remedial action. On completion of the first phase of this project (58 schools), an analysis of consumption, financial feasibility and sustainability will be completed.
The following will be undertaken for the balance of the 300 schools where the above is not implemented:
• Training of caretakers to repair leaks at their respective schools at the cost of the DoE
• Regular progress monitoring by The City to ensure compliance with the new water
by-laws
• Continuous awareness and education by The City at these schools
Further details can be obtained from Johan Prins or Yolanda Jones:
Tel: +27 21 761 0989
Email: johannes.prins@capetown.gov.za
