TALBOT has officially opened its Industrial Water Security Hub at Dube TradePort in La Mercy, reinforcing the company’s mission to strengthen water security solutions for industry across Africa.
The 3 500 m² facility brings together Talbot’s expanded laboratory, research and development capabilities, and the Smart Water Control Centre, forming an integrated hub designed to help businesses manage water risk and secure sustainable water supply in a climate of increasing scarcity.
The hub combines water analytics, engineering expertise, operational support and advanced laboratory testing to help organisations understand and manage water risk.
Chief executive officer Carl Haycock said the development reflects the company’s long-term commitment to supporting sustainable water use in industry.
“Water security is becoming a critical issue globally,” Haycock said. “For many industrial operations, water availability and quality are directly linked to business continuity. This new hub strengthens our ability to partner with our clients to understand their water risks and implement practical solutions that ensure a reliable, sustainable water supply.”
Talbot’s new facility allows seamless integration of laboratory testing, analytics, engineering design, and operational support, delivering comprehensive water security solutions for industrial operations.
Expanding testing capacity and capabilities
Talbot operates one of South Africa’s most advanced water laboratories and conducts thousands of tests daily to support regulatory compliance, operational decision-making and risk management for clients across multiple sectors. The laboratory is ISO/IEC 17025 SANAS-accredited, meaning test results are accurate, traceable and internationally recognised.
According to director, Micole Martens, the new facility significantly expands testing capacity. The new laboratory also houses an LC-MS, enabling Talbot to offer testing for Emerging Contaminants of Concern (CECs) like PFAS, dioxins, furans, and pharmaceuticals – testing capabilities that are not yet offered commercially in South Africa.
“It allows us to expand both the scale and scope of testing available and positions us to become one of the largest water testing facilities in Africa while ensuring the reliable data that industries need to manage environmental compliance and operational performance.”
Strategic location for regional and international reach
Situated at Dube TradePort, the hub benefits from proximity to King Shaka International Airport, enabling rapid sample transport and efficient turnaround times while maintaining strict chain-of-custody requirements for accredited testing.
Founded in 1989, Talbot has completed thousands of water security projects and testing initiatives across more than 25 African countries, enabling industrial and mining operations to improve water efficiency, reduce environmental impact and strengthen long-term water security.
The launch coincided with South Africa’s National Water Month, serving as a timely reminder of the growing need for sustainable water management and secure water supply for communities and industry alike.
