ISO 13272:2011

Overview

ISO 13272:2011 specifies definitions and requirements for buried manholes and inspection chambers made from unplasticized poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC‑U), polypropylene (PP), polypropylene with mineral modifiers (PP‑MD) and polyethylene (PE) for non‑pressure underground drainage and sewerage. The standard covers circular and non‑circular chambers installed to a maximum depth of 6 m (ground level to invert) for use in traffic areas and underground installations (application code "U"). Products complying with ISO 13272:2011 must be clearly marked and accompanied by manufacturer documentation specifying how components are assembled into a complete chamber or manhole.

Key topics and technical requirements

• Scope & definitions: distinguishes inspection chambers (riser outer diameter ≥ 200 mm and inner diameter < 800 mm) from manholes (inner diameter ≥ 800 mm, with minimum dimensions for rectangular/elliptical risers).
• Materials: requirements for PVC‑U, PP, PP‑MD and PE used in bases, risers, cones and shallow chamber bases; provisions on use of non‑virgin and reformulated materials.
• Component types & assembly: recognises functional parts-base, riser, telescopic part, cone and near‑surface components-and requires manufacturers to document assembly instructions for site or factory assembly.
• Jointing methods: permitted joints include elastomeric ring seals, adhesive joints (PVC‑U), welded joints (PVC‑U, PP, PE), extrusion welding and mechanical jointing.
• Geometrical, mechanical and physical characteristics: dimensional tolerances, colour, impact resistance, buckling resistance and ring stiffness requirements (test methods referenced rather than pass values).
• Marking & documentation: products intended for outdoor/traffic use are marked with "U" and must include installation/assembly guidance and relevant performance data.

Applications

ISO 13272:2011 applies to design, manufacture, selection and installation of plastic manholes and inspection chambers for:

• highway, street and other traffic area drainage systems
• buried sewerage networks and underground installations outside buildings
• site-assembled or factory-made chambers where component assembly is defined by the manufacturer

Keywords: manholes, inspection chambers, buried drainage, sewerage, PVC‑U, PP, PP‑MD, PE, traffic areas, ISO 13272:2011.

Who uses this standard

• Manufacturers of plastic manholes, inspection chambers and components
• System designers and civil/municipal engineers specifying underground drainage assets
• Installation contractors and site supervisors responsible for assembly and testing
• Certifying bodies and testing laboratories performing compliance assessments

Related standards

Relevant referenced documents include EN 476 (general requirements for drainage chambers), ISO 4435, ISO 8772, ISO 8773, ISO 13266 (traffic/loading tests), ISO 13267 (buckling resistance) and standards on sealing rings and material test methods cited within ISO 13272:2011.