Navigating the Upcoming EU Drinking Water Regulations: A Guide for Businesses
In this blog post, Hartmut Arheidt, an expert in TPE drinking water applications, discusses the revised EU Drinking Water Directive, which will come into force in 2027. He describes the implications for companies that manufacture materials that come into contact with drinking water.
The directive aims to improve water quality through stricter safety standards and a centralized certification process, encourage innovation and motivate companies to act quickly to ensure compliance and thus market access.
As the European Union prepares to enforce its revised Drinking Water Directive in 2027, businesses involved in producing materials and products that come into contact with drinking water face significant changes. This regulatory overhaul aims to enhance water quality and safeguard public health by imposing stricter requirements on products and materials in contact with drinking water. Here's what you need to know about these changes and why immediate action is essential.
Key Aspects of the New EU Drinking Water Directive
- Enhanced Safety Standards: The new regulations will set higher benchmarks for chemical and microbial safety in drinking water products. This includes tighter controls on the migration of harmful substances from materials into water, ensuring that all components meet rigorous safety standards.
- Uniform Certification Process: The directive introduces a harmonized certification system across all EU member states. This means products must undergo standardized testing and approval to be marketed across Europe, streamlining compliance processes but also necessitating thorough preparation by manufacturers.
- Focus on Pollutants: The directive specifically targets pollutants of concern and other toxic substances with stricter limits. This shift will encourage the development of safer, lead-free materials and innovative solutions that prioritize health and safety.
Why Businesses Must Act Now?
- Avoid Non-Compliance Risks: Delaying compliance could result in product recalls, legal penalties, and loss of access to the EU market. Companies must begin evaluating their materials and processes to meet these new standards well before the 2027 deadline.
- Leverage Competitive Advantage: Early adopters of the new standards will have a significant competitive edge. By showcasing a commitment to safety and quality, businesses can strengthen their brand reputation and customer trust, potentially expanding their market reach.
- Ensure Market Access: Compliance will be mandatory for selling products in any EU country. Businesses that fail to align with the new directive risk exclusion from lucrative markets, making early adaptation essential for maintaining and growing their customer base.
Explore our THERMOLAST® DW series
TPEs specifically designed to meet the new EU regulations for drinking water applications.
Conclusion
The new EU drinking water regulations present both challenges and opportunities for businesses. By acting now and partnering with industry leaders like KRAIBURG TPE, companies can ensure compliance, maintain market access, and build a stronger, more resilient brand for the future. Do not wait until 2027 to address these changes—proactively review your product lines today and make informed decisions to secure your company's success.
KRAIBURG TPE: Your Partner in Compliance
At KRAIBURG TPE, we offer a range of thermoplastic elastomers (TPEs) specifically designed to meet the new EU regulations for drinking water applications. Our THERMOLAST® DW series ensures compliance with the highest safety and hygiene standards, offering:
- Versatility: Suitable for various applications, including pipes, tubes, seals, and gaskets.
- Performance: Excellent resistance to chemicals and temperature fluctuations, ensuring long-term durability.
- Customization: Available in a wide range of colors and hardness levels to meet specific design requirements.
By choosing KRAIBURG TPE, companies can confidently navigate regulatory changes and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
For more information on how KRAIBURG TPE can support your compliance efforts, please contact us today.
Author | Hartmut Arheidt
Market Manager Industry & Drinking Water Specialist
Press | Juliane Schmidhuber
PR & Communications Manager
