Rapid Response RPZ Testing for Major Cruise Ship

When a large international cruise liner required urgent RPZ valve testing while docked in the UK, Ultravalve was called upon at the last minute to ensure compliance and keep the ship on schedule. Despite weather disruptions caused by Storm Amy, our engineers delivered the testing safely, efficiently, and within a very tight deadline.

The Challenge

The ship’s operators contacted Ultravalve shortly before its arrival into port, requesting full testing of the 27 Watts RPZ (Reduced Pressure Zone) valves on board. RPZ valves play a vital role in preventing backflow contamination in potable water systems, and annual testing by approved engineers is a legal requirement under UK Water Regulations.

The vessel’s schedule left little room for delay — docking on a Saturday and departing again by 6am Monday morning. Every hour counted.

However, as the engineers prepared to attend the vessel on Saturday morning, Storm Amy struck, preventing the ship from safely docking. This unexpected delay meant the initial testing visit had to be aborted.

Our Response

Undeterred, Ultravalve acted quickly to replan and redeploy resources. Engineers Scott Warby and Alan Parkes returned to the port when it was safe for the ship to dock, working through the night on Sunday to ensure all 27 RPZ valves were tested and compliant before the ship’s early departure.

The operation demonstrated Ultravalve’s ability to respond rapidly, adapt under pressure, and deliver essential testing services within the most challenging timeframes.

The Outcome

All testing was completed successfully before the ship’s scheduled departure. The cruise ship operators were extremely pleased with the professionalism and flexibility shown by our engineers, commending Ultravalve for delivering such a comprehensive service under difficult conditions.

Following this project, Ultravalve has been asked to provide ongoing support and emergency repair services for the operator’s wider fleet.

Ultravalve is fully accredited to carry out RPZ testing, repairs, and certification across the UK, delivering peace of mind for commercial, industrial, and marine applications.

If you have any RPZ valve testing, replacement or repair enquiries, please email sales@ultravalve.co.uk.