TECHNICAL UPDATE / IGEM/UP/1B

IGEM/UP/1B Edition 4: What Smart Metering Engineers Need to Know

A practical introduction to installation volume, purge volume and the importance of checking current requirements.

Why Edition 4 matters

IGEM/UP/1B covers tightness testing and direct purging of small low-pressure gas installations. Organisations should review the current edition, update internal procedures where necessary and ensure engineers understand the requirements relevant to their work.

Installation volume and purge volume

When purging is required, the installation volume needs to be established using the relevant pipework and meter information. The MCS calculator provides a convenient way to record multiple pipe runs and calculate a reference purge volume of 1.5 times the installation volume, subject to confirmation against the current standard and approved procedures.

What should field teams review?

Whether the latest standard and company procedures are available to competent engineers.
Whether pipework dimensions, meter volume and fittings allowances are correctly identified.
Whether any calculation tools and reference tables have been independently checked.
Whether records demonstrate the prescribed tests and purging procedures were followed.

Use the free MCS calculator

The calculator supports volume calculations and printable records; it does not determine tightness-test pass/fail outcomes or replace approved testing and purging procedures.

Open the MCS calculator ↗

Important: This is an independent general-information summary, not the standard itself, formal training or technical authorisation. Refer to the full current IGEM/UP/1B publication, official guidance and applicable company procedures before carrying out gas work. MCS is not affiliated with or endorsed by IGEM.

Further reading: IGEM/UP/1B official FAQs ↗