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Method Statement: Installation of Electromagnetic or Ultrasonic Flow Meters on Water Networks – Method Statement
Method Statement: Installation of Electromagnetic or Ultrasonic Flow Meters on Water Networks method statement and inspection test plan example.

Method Statement: Installation of Electromagnetic or Ultrasonic Flow Meters on Water Networks – Method Statement

AI-assisted method statement with matching ITP, PDF download, and Excel export.

Published 20 Oct 2026 Rev. 00 2 views
About this method statement: This method statement details how to install electromagnetic or ultrasonic flow meters on water pipelines. It covers straight-run verification, earthing rings, wiring, hydro/leak testing, and calibration verification with clear acceptance criteria.

More than a static template

Unlike a downloadable Word or PDF template, this method statement is an AI-assisted editable starting point connected directly to a matching Inspection and Test Plan. Every section is structured, project-adaptable, and ready to export.

  • AI-assisted drafting — Customize every section with AI for your specific project scope.
  • Linked ITP — A matching inspection and test plan is generated alongside the method statement.
  • Multiple export formats — Download as a formatted PDF or editable Excel spreadsheet.
  • Editable starting point, not a final document — Review, verify, and adjust all content against your project requirements before use.

Static template vs. Quollnet workflow

FeatureStatic templateQuollnet
Project-specific contentManual fill-in requiredAI-assisted customization
Linked ITPSeparate document, no linkMatching ITP included
Export formatsUsually PDF onlyPDF and Excel
Structured sectionsFree-form layout13 standardized sections
Saved to your accountLocal file onlyCloud-saved, reusable
Content accuracyYou verify everythingAI-assisted, you still verify
CostOften free but time-intensiveFree to customize and download

What you can customize

When you save this method statement to your account, every section becomes editable. The following 13 sections are included:

  • Scope — Defines the activity and its boundaries.
  • References — Standards, specifications, and drawings.
  • Responsibilities — Roles and accountabilities.
  • Resources — Labour, plant, and equipment summary.
  • Materials — Materials and compliance requirements.
  • Equipment — Tools and equipment details.
  • Prerequisites — Hold points and pre-conditions.
  • Method sequence — Step-by-step construction sequence.
  • Safety controls — HSE risk controls and PPE.
  • Environmental controls — Environmental mitigation measures.
  • QA/QC — Quality inspection and test requirements.
  • ITP — Inspection and Test Plan table (has its own page).
  • Attachments — Referenced drawings and documentation.

Why this method statement is used

This method statement is used to define and communicate the approved procedure for carrying out method statement: installation of electromagnetic or ultrasonic flow meters on water networks on site. It ensures the work is planned in advance, the correct resources and controls are in place, and all personnel understand responsibilities, sequence, quality requirements, and safety controls before work begins. It aligns site execution with the documented scope and acceptance expectations.

Who uses this method statement

This method statement is used by contractors, site supervisors, project engineers, QA/QC engineers, HSE officers, consultants, and client representatives. It serves as a shared reference for planning, execution, supervision, inspection, and approval of the activity on site.

When it is prepared and submitted

The method statement is prepared before the work activity starts and submitted as part of the pre-construction documentation package for review and approval.

Who reviews or approves it

The method statement is usually submitted to the client representative, consultant, resident engineer, or project management consultant for review and approval before the work commences.

Important approval note

This method statement is an AI-assisted editable starting point, not a pre-approved document. Before use on any project, all content must be reviewed and approved by the relevant parties (superintendent, principal contractor, or client representative) in accordance with your contract and project quality plan.

For example: if your specification requires a departure from a referenced standard, that departure must be documented and approved separately — this method statement will not capture that automatically. Always verify against your applicable drawings, specifications, and regulatory requirements.

Method statement content

Scope

Work included

  • Installation of electromagnetic or ultrasonic (in-line spool or clamp-on) flow meters on potable or raw water closed-pipe networks.
  • Verification and provision of upstream/downstream straight lengths and flow conditioning as required by manufacturer.
  • Installation of earthing/grounding rings and equipotential bonding for mag meters, especially on non-conductive or lined pipes.
  • Mechanical works: pipe cutting, spool insertion, flange alignment, gaskets, bolting, supports, and reinstatement.
  • Electrical/instrumentation works: transmitter mounting, power and I/O cabling (4–20 mA, pulse, Modbus/RS485/Ethernet), shielding/earthing, loop checks, and labeling.
  • Commissioning: configuration, zeroing, empty-pipe detection checks, leak/pressure testing, and calibration verification against certificates or reference method.
  • Documentation: as-built redlines, torque records, test sheets, verification reports, and O&M handover.

Exclusions

  • Permanent bypass line construction unless noted otherwise.
  • Civil works beyond minor plinths/supports and chamber refurbishment.
  • Network shutdown planning by others (operator to issue shutdown permit).

References

Document TypeReference / NumberRevisionNotes
Standard ISO 6817
Standard ISO 4064 For accuracy classes and verification where specified
Guidance/Manual Manufacturer / AWWA M33 Follow vendor straight-run, coupling, and diagnostic requirements
Standard IEC 61010-1 / IEC 61326-1 / IEC 60529
Standard IEC 60364
Standard ASME B16.5 / EN 1092-1 / ASME PCC-1
Standard NSF/ANSI 61 / BS 6920
Standard AWWA C600/C605

Responsibilities

RoleResponsibilityName / Party
Construction Manager Construction Manager Contractor
Project Engineer Site/Project Engineer Contractor
HSE Officer HSE Officer Contractor
QA/QC Inspector QA/QC Inspector Contractor
Mechanical Supervisor Mechanical Supervisor Contractor
Instrumentation Supervisor Instrumentation Supervisor Contractor
Engineer Engineer/Employer’s Representative Employer

Resources

Resource TypeDescriptionQuantityRemarks
Manpower 1 1
Manpower 2–4 2-4
Manpower 1–2 1-2
Manpower 1 1
Manpower 1 1
Manpower 1 (shared) 1
Manpower 1 (shared) 1

Materials

MaterialSpecification / GradeQuantityRemarks
Flow meter Size per line DN; Pressure rating PN16/PN25 or Class 150/300 [Verify]
Grounding ring To suit pipe ID/liner; bonding cable ≥16 mm² Cu [Verify]
EPDM/NBR/PTFE gasket To flange standard ASME B16.5/EN 1092; thickness 3 mm typical [Verify]
Studs/bolts/nuts SS A4-80 or hot-dip galvanized Grade 8.8 with compatible nuts/washers [Verify]
Instrument cable & glands Twisted shielded pair 0.75–1.5 mm²; IP68 brass/SS glands with earth tag [Verify]
Brackets, anchors, plinth SS304/316 brackets; anchors to suit substrate
PTFE tape, anaerobic sealant, acoustic gel Potable-water-safe where exposed; temp range per vendor

Equipment

EquipmentCapacity / TypeQuantityInspection Required
Chain block/hoist >1.5× load [Verify] As required Yes
Torque wrench & hydraulic torque (if required) Up to flange spec 1 set Yes
DMM, 500 V IR tester, loop calibrator (4–20 mA) 1 set Yes
Reference flow meter Accuracy ≤±1% of reading [Verify] 1 Yes
Tripod, winch, harness, gas detector, blower 1 set Yes
Submersible pump/hoses Flow ≥ expected ingress As required Yes
Certified tools with guards/RCDs As required Yes

Prerequisites

  • Approved method statement, risk assessment, and ITP.
  • Vendor documents: GA drawings, wiring diagrams, installation manuals, calibration certificates (ISO/IEC 17025 preferred) and IP rating confirmation.
  • Permits: Network shutdown/isolation, confined space entry (if applicable), electrical work permit, lifting permit, excavation/utility permit (if any) [Verify per project HSE plan and local regulations].
  • As-built survey of pipeline: pipe size, material, lining, wall thickness, available straight lengths, access, chamber condition, and existing supports.
  • Confirmation of power supply (e.g., 230 VAC or 24 VDC), SCADA/RTU interface details, signal ranges, and addressing.
  • Materials and tools inspected; calibration certificates current (<6–12 months) [Verify per project].
  • Pre-start coordination meeting and toolbox talk with all trades; emergency plan briefed.
  • Bypass/temporary supply arrangement in place if service continuity required [Verify].

Method Sequence

StepActivityDescriptionResponsibilityInspection / Hold Point
1 Site establishment and verification Confirm location, pipe details, meter type, and tag numbers; verify access and lifting plan. Site Engineer Pre-start check
2 Isolation, lockout, and draining Shut valves; apply LOTO; depressurize and drain the pipe section. Provide dechlorination for potable water discharge where required. Mechanical Supervisor Witness
3 Access and confined space controls Open chamber/manhole; test atmosphere; set tripod/winch and ventilation if entry required; install barriers and signage. HSE Officer Hold point
4 Pipe preparation Remove existing spool/blank; clean flange faces; verify flange rating and bolt pattern; check supports. Mechanical Supervisor Surveillance
5 Confirm straight-run and orientation Measure upstream/downstream lengths and decide on flow conditioner if required. Mark installation orientation (arrow with flow; electrodes horizontal for mag). Site Engineer Hold point
6 Earthing/grounding provisions (mag meters) Install SS grounding rings (both sides where non-conductive or lined pipe); bond meter body and pipeline to local earth bar with ≥16 mm² Cu cable [Verify]. Instrumentation Supervisor Witness
7 Meter mechanical installation Install gaskets; align meter spool with pipe; insert bolts; tighten in star pattern using calibrated torque; support meter to avoid nozzle loads. Mechanical Supervisor Witness
8 Transmitter mounting Mount transmitter remotely or integral per IP/temperature constraints; orient display for readability; provide sunshield if outdoors. Instrumentation Supervisor Surveillance
9 Cabling and terminations Route power and signal cables in separate conduits; install glands; terminate per wiring diagram; ground shields at one end (typically transmitter). Electrician/Instrument Tech Surveillance
10 Functional setup Configure meter size, K-factor/pipe factors, range, output scaling (4–20 mA, pulse), units, damping, empty-pipe detection, conductivity threshold (mag). Instrument Tech Witness
11 Hydrostatic/leak test of installed section Re-pressurize gradually; vent air; hold at test pressure as per spec; inspect for leaks and flange integrity. Mechanical Supervisor Hold point
12 Zeroing and empty-pipe check (mag) / acoustic path check (ultrasonic) With no flow, perform zero calibration; verify empty-pipe alarm; for clamp-on set path, verify signal strength and SNR. Instrument Tech Witness
13 Calibration verification Verify against factory certificate and perform in-situ verification using vendor tool or portable reference meter; perform two-point flow check if feasible. QA/QC + Instrument Vendor Rep (if specified) Witness/hold
14 Loop check to SCADA/RTU Simulate 4–20 mA and digital outputs; confirm readings, scaling, and alarms at control system. Instrument Tech + SCADA Engineer Witness
15 Finalization and handover Labeling; tidy cables; restore area; remove LOTO; update as-builts; hand over dossiers. Site Engineer Final inspection

Health, Safety, and Environment — Safety Controls

For each significant hazard, the following are defined: hazard, likely consequence, control, PPE, collective measure, inspection/permit/supervision.

1) Pressurized water release
- Consequence: Struck-by, drowning, property damage.
- Control: Formal isolation and LOTO of upstream/downstream valves; verify zero pressure via vent/pressure gauge before opening.
- PPE: Face shield, safety glasses, waterproof gloves, protective clothing, safety boots.
- Collective: Barriers/exclusion zones; gradual repressurization with vents open.
- Inspection/Permit: Isolation plan approved; LOTO register; supervisor sign-off.

2) Confined space in valve chamber/vault
- Consequence: Asphyxiation/toxic exposure, falls, entrapment.
- Control: Gas test (O2/LEL/H2S/CO), forced ventilation, standby attendant, retrieval system; limit occupancy time.
- PPE: Harness with retrieval line, gas monitor, helmet with chin strap, gloves.
- Collective: Tripod/winch and guardrails at opening; rescue plan with practiced drill.
- Inspection/Permit: Confined Space Entry Permit; continuous gas monitoring; competent CSE supervisor.

3) Lifting and handling of heavy meters/spools
- Consequence: Crush injuries, dropped objects, musculoskeletal injury.
- Control: Use certified lifting gear and rated anchor points; tag lines; no manual lift above 25 kg; follow lift plan.
- PPE: Hard hat, safety boots, gloves; high-visibility vest.
- Collective: Exclusion zone; banksman control.
- Inspection/Permit: Lifting plan and equipment certificates; pre-lift checklist; appointed person supervision.

4) Electrical shock/short circuits
- Consequence: Electric shock, burns, arc flash (low risk at LV), equipment damage.
- Control: Isolate circuits; test-before-touch; RCD-protected temporary supplies; correct IP-rated glands and earthing.
- PPE: Insulated gloves appropriate to voltage, eye protection.
- Collective: Lockable isolators; segregated cable trays.
- Inspection/Permit: Electrical work permit; inspections by competent electrician.

5) Underground utility strike (if excavation for access/reroute)
- Consequence: Electrocution, flooding, service outages.
- Control: Utility maps and cable/pipe locators; hand-dig trial holes; permit-to-dig.
- PPE: Dielectric boots/gloves as required; eye protection.
- Collective: Physical barriers and spotting.
- Inspection/Permit: Permit-to-dig; supervision by Site Engineer.

6) Hot work (if grinding/cutting required)
- Consequence: Fire, burns, fumes.
- Control: Avoid where possible; if unavoidable, use hot work permit, fire watch, spark containment, extinguishers.
- PPE: Flame-resistant clothing, face shield, gloves, hearing protection.
- Collective: Fire blankets; designated hot-work zone.
- Inspection/Permit: Hot work permit; atmosphere check; fire watch log.

7) Slip/trip/fall in wet chambers
- Consequence: Injury from falls and impacts.
- Control: Keep hoses/cables managed; anti-slip mats; adequate lighting and sump pumps.
- PPE: Non-slip boots, headlamp.
- Collective: Housekeeping audits; access ladders secured.
- Inspection/Permit: Supervisor inspections; housekeeping checklist.

8) Chemical exposure from chlorinated water (disinfection or residuals)
- Consequence: Skin/eye irritation, environmental harm.
- Control: Neutralize with sodium thiosulfate where required; avoid aerosolization; controlled discharge.
- PPE: Chemical-resistant gloves, goggles/face shield.
- Collective: Bunded area for dosing; eyewash available.
- Inspection/Permit: Method approved by operator; COSHH/SDS available [Verify per project HSE plan and local regulations].

Environmental Controls

  • Water discharge management: Route drained water to approved outfall; for chlorinated water, dechlorinate to ≤0.02 mg/L total residual chlorine before discharge [Verify per authority].
  • Sediment control: Use silt socks/sediment tanks to prevent turbidity in receivers.
  • Noise/vibration: Limit working hours; use low-noise tools; monitor if near receptors.
  • Waste management: Collect spent gaskets, packaging, and scrap metal for recycling; dispose of oily rags and used couplant as per waste codes.
  • Spill prevention: Store oils/chemicals in bunded trays; spill kit available; immediate cleanup logged.
  • Material compliance: All wetted materials to be NSF/ANSI 61 or BS 6920 compliant for potable systems [Verify].
  • Biodiversity/heritage: Stop work and notify if protected species or artifacts encountered [Verify per project HSE plan and local regulations].

QA/QC

Hold and witness points

  • Hold: Confined space permit approval; straight-run verification; hydrostatic test; calibration verification.
  • Witness: Earthing continuity; flange torque; loop checks; zeroing/diagnostics.

Inspection and test records

  • Material certificates for meter, rings, gaskets, bolts (potable water compliance where applicable).
  • Calibration certificates for test equipment (DMM, IR tester, torque wrench, reference flow meter).
  • Straight-run measurement sheet and orientation photos.
  • Torque logs with wrench ID and setting.
  • Earthing/continuity test sheet (≤1 Ω, or per project spec [Verify]).
  • Insulation resistance test results for power and I/O (≥1 MΩ at 500 Vdc, unless vendor imposes lower test voltage).
  • Hydrostatic/Leak test report (pressure, duration, acceptance per spec).
  • Configuration/parameter sheet (range, scaling, units, outputs, damping, addresses).
  • Loop check sheets with as-found/as-left values.
  • Calibration verification report with comparison data and uncertainty statement.

Acceptance criteria (typical benchmarks – verify per project/manufacturer)

  • Straight runs: Mag meter ≥10D upstream/≥5D downstream; with conditioner ≥5D/≥3D. Ultrasonic ≥10D/≥5D; up to 20D upstream after elbows/pumps.
  • Orientation: Flow arrow with actual flow; mag electrodes horizontal; full pipe at meter location.
  • Earthing: Continuity to earth ≤1 Ω; bonding cable cross-section ≥16 mm² Cu [Verify].
  • Wiring: Correct cores and shields; IR ≥1 MΩ; segregation of power/signal maintained.
  • Torque: To vendor/flange table; retorque after 24 hours if specified.
  • Hydro/leak: No visible leaks; pressure hold per spec with allowable drop per code [Verify].
  • Meter performance: Mag ±0.5…±1.0% of rate; ultrasonic ±1…±2% of rate in verification tests [Verify].
  • SCADA: 4–20 mA linearity within ±0.5% span; correct alarm/status mapping.

Attachments

  • Approved drawings: P&IDs, instrument index, cable schedules, GA details of meter installation.
  • Manufacturer’s installation, operation, and maintenance manuals.
  • Calibration and verification certificates (factory and field), ISO/IEC 17025 where applicable.
  • Material test certificates and potable-water compliance (NSF/ANSI 61 or BS 6920).
  • Risk assessment, method statement, permits (LOTO, CSE, hot work, lifting).
  • Test records: torque logs, IR/continuity, hydrostatic test, loop checks, configuration printouts.
  • As-built redlines and nameplate/tagging list.

This content is a read-only public reference. Download or customize to get an editable version.

ITP preview

The first inspection activities from the linked ITP for Method Statement: Installation of Electromagnetic or Ultrasonic Flow Meters on Water Networks:

ActivityInspection / TestAcceptance CriteriaResponsibilityRecord
Permits and isolation (LOTO)Verify permits issued, valves closed/locked, zero pressure confirmedLOTO applied and recorded; vent shows 0 bargHSE Officer / Site EngineerPTW & LOTO records
Straight-run measurement and location confirmationMeasure upstream/downstream lengths; check disturbancesMeets manufacturer/project minimum D requirementsSite Engineer / QA/QCStraight-run sheet; photos
Material verificationCheck meter tag, size, rating; certificates for potable complianceCorrect model/tag; certificates present and validQA/QC InspectorMaterial inspection report

Showing 3 of 13 inspection activities. View full ITP →

Related Inspection and Test Plan

An Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) is available for Method Statement: Installation of Electromagnetic or Ultrasonic Flow Meters on Water Networks. The ITP defines the inspection activities, acceptance criteria, hold and witness points, responsible parties, and records required to verify the work described in this method statement.

View the Method Statement: Installation of Electromagnetic or Ultrasonic Flow Meters on Water Networks ITP →

Frequently asked questions

Typical values are mag: ≥10D upstream and ≥5D downstream (or ≥5D/≥3D with a conditioner); ultrasonic: ≥10D upstream and ≥5D downstream, increasing to 20D upstream after severe disturbances. Verify against the manufacturer and project specifications.

Grounding rings are required for mag meters on non-conductive or lined pipes (e.g., PVC, HDPE, rubber-lined steel) to stabilize the reference potential. Bond the rings and meter body to earth with an adequate conductor.

Use the manufacturer’s verification tool/diagnostics or compare against a portable reference meter at two or more flow rates. Acceptance is per project accuracy class and vendor limits.

Hydrostatic/leak test of the installed section, electrical IR/continuity tests, zeroing/diagnostics, loop checks to SCADA/RTU, and calibration verification. All results must meet acceptance criteria.

Yes, clamp-on transit-time ultrasonic meters can be installed externally if the pipe material and wall thickness support the selected acoustic path and a suitable straight run is available. Follow vendor coupling and setup procedures.

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