The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) wishes to reassure customers and the general public that all materials used within its drinking water network, including modern plastic pipeline systems, are safe, internationally approved for potable water applications, and do not pose any risk to public health or water quality.
This clarification follows inaccurate claims circulating on social media suggesting that plastic water mains are harmful. WAF confirms that these statements are not supported by engineering standards, public health guidance, or established operational practices.
WAF Chief Executive Officer, Mr Seru Soderberg, emphasised that the Authority’s infrastructure decisions are guided by strict safety requirements and internationally recognised industry standards.
“Modern pipeline materials used within our drinking water systems are specifically designed for potable water transport. They are independently tested, quality assured, and installed in accordance with Australian and New Zealand standards to ensure they do not release harmful substances or compromise water quality,” Mr Soderberg said.
Plastic pipeline materials such as mPVC, HDPE, and uPVC are widely adopted by water utilities around the world due to their durability, corrosion resistance, and ability to maintain water quality over long service lives. WAF utilises pipeline products manufactured to comply with Australian and New Zealand potable water standards, ensuring materials are lead-free, chemically stable, and suitable for long-term drinking water applications.
All infrastructure materials undergo rigorous assessment processes, including verification of material composition, structural integrity, and long-term performance in drinking water environments. These requirements ensure that pipeline materials used within WAF systems meet stringent safety and quality benchmarks recognised across the region.
The Authority also acknowledges public interest regarding microplastic and material safety concerns. WAF advises that potable-grade pipeline materials used within its systems are tested and certified under recognised Australian and New Zealand standards to confirm that any material interaction with water remains well within established international health and safety thresholds.
In addition to infrastructure quality assurance, WAF conducts routine monitoring and testing across its supply networks to ensure that water delivered to customers continues to meet Fiji National Drinking Water Quality standards.
“WAF is committed to transparency, public safety, and maintaining confidence in our water supply systems. We encourage members of the public to seek verified technical information directly from the Authority to avoid unnecessary concern caused by misinformation,” Mr Soderberg added.
Customers seeking further information are encouraged to contact WAF through its official communication channels.
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For more information, please email the WAF Communications and Stakeholder Engagement Team at media@waf.com.fj