Overview

This webinar is part of the ChemEngConnect 2026 programme, a premier two-week virtual conference bringing together chemical engineering professionals from around the globe.

Water pollution prevention is undergoing a major shift. High‑profile pollution incidents and growing public intolerance for environmental harm have driven regulators to introduce far stricter controls—particularly for new and permitted industrial sites. On 14 June 2022, the regulator began updating CIRIA736, with Sandfield Penstock Solutions again contributing through David Cole’s involvement. This revision, due to be issued this year, places greater emphasis on tertiary controls and real‑world evidence of Best Available Techniques (BAT).

In this 40‑minute presentation, David Cole—launch speaker and contributing author of CIRIA736—will explain the latest guidance, regulatory expectations, sentencing implications, and the technologies now available to help organisations remain compliant and avoid costly environmental failures. CIRIA736 is a valuable tool for due diligence, helping assess whether a business has appropriate water pollution controls in place. The webinar will explore key topics including:

• The legacy of Buncefield and why change was essential
• Why regulators require firewater containment
• Current guidance affecting every business
• Common issues with penstocks
• Toggleblok technology
• How to approach risk assessment
• Completing spill mapping
• Using CIRIA736 to get your project right first time

Speaker

David Cole, Technical Director, Sandfield Penstock Solutions limited

David Cole is a leading specialist in water pollution prevention and industrial containment strategy. With extensive experience supporting regulators and industry, he played a key role as a launch speaker and contributing author of CIRIA736, the UK’s principal guidance on spill and firewater management.

David works closely with Sandfield Penstock Solutions, advising on best practice, regulatory compliance, and the application of emerging technologies such as tertiary containment and BAT‑aligned solutions. Known for his clear, practical approach, he regularly delivers training and presentations that help businesses understand evolving regulations, reduce pollution risk, and protect both their operations and the environment.

The material presented has not been peer-reviewed. Any opinions are the presenter’s own and do not necessarily represent those of IChemE or the Safety and Loss Prevention Special Interest Group. The information is given in good faith but without any liability on the part of IChemE.

Time

09:00–10:00 BST.

Software

The presentation will be delivered via EventsAir.