In-service inspection of the Turnbull Water Supply System Reservoirs—Phase I

The Phase I In-Service Reservoir Inspection project completed for the Region of Waterloo (Region) included the use of a remotely operated underwater vehicle (ROV) for the Turnbull Water Supply System (WSS) in-ground reservoirs assessment. A multidisciplinary ROV inspection of the two 11,400 m3 reservoir cells was conducted by the CIMA+ team to support an Inventory, Condition Assessment, and Capital Planning (ICC) update for the Region.

CIMA+ was retained by the Region to assess the inside condition of the Turnbull WSS reservoirs without taking them out of service. Using remotely operated vehicle (ROV) technology, our team inspected the reservoirs while they remained full and operational. This included examining the condition of the concrete structures as well as submerged equipment such as process instrumentation, mechanical piping and related components. The findings were then used to update the Region’s ICC for the Turnbull WSS.

Maintaining safe, uninterrupted water service, in the short and long term

ROV inspections were carried out one reservoir cell at a time, allowing the system to remain in operation and ensuring uninterrupted water supply service. Before the inspections began, a thorough review of the reservoir isolation procedures was completed. This phase included detailed discussions and close coordination with the Region’s operations and maintenance staff. CIMA+’s approach involved real-time, on-site consultation with structural and process engineering staff based on the video images provided by the ROV. This made it possible for the discipline experts to direct the ROV operator to specific areas of concern during the inspection. Adherence to stringent industry and Region disinfection protocols prevented any risk of contaminating the water supply by the ROV equipment.