Main risks

• Leaks due to poor joints, cracks or impacts, with potential water damage and mould growth.
• Bursts or disconnections due to overpressure or water hammer.
• Burns from hot water in domestic hot water (DHW) circuits in the event of breakage or accidental purging.
• Cuts and splinters when cutting or handling pipes and fittings.
• Inhalation of dust or shavings and exposure to noise when cutting or sanding.
• Material degradation due to chemical/galvanic incompatibility or exposure to UV radiation and high/low temperatures where applicable.
• Breakage due to freezing in cold climates or unprotected areas.
• Contamination of drinking water by dirt or particles introduced during installation.

Safe use

• Ensure that the pipe and fittings are suitable for the intended use (potable or non-potable water), and compatible with the system's temperature and pressure.
• Cut with appropriate tools; deburr and clean the ends before joining to improve fit and reduce leaks.
• Use gaskets, sealants or adhesives specific to the material and intended use; observe the curing times specified by the manufacturer.
• Do not overtighten threads or clamps to avoid deformation or cracking.
• Isolate and drain the circuit before working; ensure the line is depressurised.
• Secure and support the pipes with compatible clamps, avoiding chafing, sagging and excessively tight bend radii.
• Avoid direct heat sources or flames near plastic pipes; provide ventilation when using solvent-based adhesives and keep sparks or flames away.
• Perform a leak test and pressurisation progressively and under supervision before closing suspended ceilings or partitions; purge air from the circuit.
• For water intended for consumption, flush the installation before first use and after maintenance work.
• Use gloves, goggles, hearing protection and a dust mask when cutting or sanding.

Storage and maintenance

• Store pipes in a dry, ventilated place, protected from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, especially for plastic materials.
• Keep the ends capped to prevent the ingress of dust, insects or foreign objects.
• Store horizontally on supports that prevent sagging; do not stack with excessive weight or subject to crushing.
• Avoid impacts and dragging that could score or crack the pipe wall.
• Periodically inspect the visible installation: look for leaks, corrosion, discolouration, bulging, abnormal noises or vibrations.
• Protect sections exposed to frost; drain or insulate according to local conditions.
• In potable water installations, flush after long periods without use and replace deteriorated parts.
• Keep shut-off valves and access points accessible to facilitate quick interventions.

Restrictions of use

• Do not use these pipes for gas, fuels, vapour or aggressive chemicals unless the product expressly indicates so.
• Do not use pipes as structural elements, supports, scaffolding or to suspend loads.
• Do not bend beyond the recommended limit for the material, nor drill the pipe walls without a clear purpose; avoid kinks and constrictions.
• Do not install in direct contact with heat sources or outdoors under strong sunlight if the material is not designed for it.
• Do not reuse pipes or fittings that are damaged or deformed, or with deteriorated joints/threads.
• Keep parts and tools out of the reach of children; do not allow play with long lengths or packaging.
• Work involving power tools or heat should be carried out by adults with basic plumbing knowledge and safety measures.
• Do not commission or pressurise until sealants or adhesives have fully cured.