To create (load-bearing) surface seals for retaining systems, such as collecting trays, rooms or surfaces, in storage, filling and handling facilities for substances hazardous to water (SFH facilities), liquid-tight concretes – in the form of precast concrete systems or cast-in-place sealing layers – are used. The sealing system (construction technique) consists of the precast concrete elements or the cast-in-place sealing layer, suitable joint seals and possibly drainage systems.

Regulatory framework

Sealing systems made of concrete in SFH facilities fall under the Ordinance on the determination of the suitability of construction products and construction techniques under water law by means of verifications in accordance with the Building Codes of the federal states (WasBauPVO) and under the Ordinance on facilities for handling substances hazardous to water (AwSV).

DIBt grants national technical approvals (abZ) and/or general construction technique permits (aBG) for these products and construction techniques, confirming that both the construction and the water law requirements have been met. The products and construction techniques are thus deemed to be suitable in accordance with Section 63 of the Water Resources Act (WHG).

Please also note the applicable provisions of the federal states following MVV TB, B 4.1 'Technical requirements for stationary systems and system parts in storage, filling and handling facilities for substances hazardous to water' as well as MVV TB, C 2.15.