It has been clearly demonstrated that modern high quality plastic pipe systems can virtually eliminate leakage in the underground infrastructure. However the lack of local standards and knowledge in some regions means that it difficult to distinguish between poor and high quality plastics pipes and it is difficult to ensure good installation practices. Experience has shown that poor quality pipe systems has created problems and additional costs for end users and threatens the good reputation of plastics pipes. Therefore Borouge has taken the initiative to set up the Gulf Plastics Pipe Academy in the Middle East and is studying setting up similar organizations in other regions.  

 A Borouge initiative:

  The Gulf Plastics Pipe Academy (GPPA) was established as an independent organization for the benefit of all members of the plastics pipe industry. The GPPA will promote the use of specified plastics pipe systems and good installation practice for the sustainable development of the greater Middle East region by:

Engaging its members in information sharing:-

•   Standardization and certification efforts
• Providing education and training on the design of plastics pipes systems
• Providing education and training for the installation of plastics pipe systems and advising on ecological issues
• Promoting innovative new plastics pipe system approaches

In discussions with local industry these ambitions are being developed into the operational practices of the GPPA:-

KNOWLEDGE SHARING AND TRAINING

• Encourage members to share experiences with plastics pipe systems
• Creation of Case Study Bank
• Forum to dispel myths about plastics and to create confidence on its capabilities
• Coordinating members need for special studies to be undertaken
• Provide training and educational courses for pipe system designers, contractors (calculations, installations etc.) and pipe installers (installation techniques, welding etc.)
• Provide onsite training to installers and engineers

STANDARDISATION & CERTIFICATION

• To support development of regional standards and encourage members to participate
• Facilitate and recommend certification schemes for pipe & fittings producers, installers and pipe users
• Performing the role of an independent testing institute – tests can be both in house and outsourced.

PROMOTION, HEALTH, SAFETY & ENVIRONMENT

• Organizing local seminars and conferences on plastic pipe systems
• Participating in technical conferences in order to promote the use of plastic pipes
• Cooperation with industry associations for knowledge promotion
• Advising on ecological and environmental issues, thus spreading the knowledge about the advantages offered by plastics pipe systems

For more visit www.gulfplasticspipe.org or contact Rob Lawrence: +971-50-6134262