This follows an trial of the Pinpoint system from software provider eSAY Mobile, on 35 PDAs. United Utilities saw that the system delivered reports of leaks quicker and more accurately.
As a result 90 PDAs will be distributed to leak detection engineers within the four north west regions, including contractors for RPS Water and in-house teams. The system replaces a paper-based system with real-time reporting, incorporating many of the benefits provided by mobile technology.

In addition to providing quicker and more accurate details on leaks using GPS and GPRS-enabled devices, the system also saves time by allowing engineers to log on and off remotely. This is estimated to save each person approximately five hours a week.

Paul Parr, Leakage Planner at United Utilities, said: ‘This is an impressive system that has delivered tangible benefits from day one. We are very excited about the impact it will have when deployed across the whole region.

‘The system will also significantly cut down on travel time for engineers; the teams are really looking forward to getting the devices.’

The company plans further improvements to the system, including the ability to issue jobs to field workers via the PDAs.