FloodSax
Have you come across FloodSax®? They are a self-inflating, sandless, flood-defence system manufactured by Yorkshire-based Environmental Defence System.
FloodSax® will absorb 20 litres of water in 3 minutes, expanding to form something similar to a sandbag. The inner liner to the bags is semi-porous and contains wool pulp fluff and superabsorbent sodium polacrylate crystals which can absorb water to 90% capacity in 3 minutes. The water is then ‘locked’ within the bag which will mold itself to the shape of its surroundings, helping keep floodwater out.
Their advantage over a sandbag is that they can be stored flat in their un-inflated state, transported easily and deployed quickly. They are delivered vacuum packed and have a minimum shelf life of five years. When fully expanded they can weigh up to 23kg.
In addition they can be used to absorb water from spills or flood damage. Managing director Richard Bailey said they are “...more than just a flood defence product and can be used in the aftermath of floods to soak up the mess filthy floodwater leaves behind.’’ At Designing Buildings, we have used them to help dry out the interior of a flooded car.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch-up on the latest episodes.
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.
The place for vitrified clay pipes in modern infrastructure
Why vitrified clay pipes are reclaiming their role in built projects.
Research by construction PR consultancy LMC published.
Roles and responsibilities of domestic clients
ACA Safety in Construction guide for domestic clients.
Fire door compliance in UK commercial buildings
Architect and manufacturer gives their low down.






















