Isolation valve

An isolation valve is a manually operated valve installed in a pipework system to allow a section to be shut off for maintenance or repair while the rest of the system stays in service. UK isolation valves follow BS 1010 and are available in ball valve, gate valve and small lever isolator formats. They are commonly fitted at the entry to bathrooms and kitchens so that individual rooms can be worked on without disturbing the wider system. Sleeve and lever isolation valves are also widely used on washing machine and dishwasher supplies. The Water Supply Fittings Regulations 1999 require sufficient isolation to allow repairs without affecting drinking water quality. In larger London properties and commercial buildings, isolation valves are essential for efficient maintenance planning.