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Why BS 6920 compliance matters for water product and component manufacturers

Why BS 6920 compliance is essential for your drinking water products and components 

If you're a manufacturer or supplier of water-related products and components used in the UK market or markets that recognize BS 6920, compliance with British Standard BS 6920 is a critical requirement. This standard ensures that non-metallic materials in contact with drinking water do not contaminate or degrade water quality. Without BS 6920 compliance , access to the UK market or markets that recognize BS6920 may be restricted. 

At Kiwa, we provide comprehensive BS 6920 testing services through our accredited laboratories, helping businesses navigate compliance with ease. As part of this process we can also certify and list your materials under our KUKmat4 certification. Here’s everything you need to know about BS 6920 and why it’s crucial for your business. 

What is BS 6920? 

BS 6920 is a British Standard that sets strict guidelines for testing and assessing non-metallic materials in contact with drinking water. It ensures that these materials do not: 

  • Impart odour, flavour, or colour to the water 
  • Promote microbial growth
  • Leach harmful substances into the water 

Compliance with BS 6920 is a legal requirement in the UK under Water Regulation 4 and Water Regulation 31, ensuring that water remains safe for consumption. 

Why BS 6920 compliance matters 

BS 6920 compliance is more than just a regulatory requirement—it's a fundamental step in ensuring the safety and quality of drinking water. Meeting this standard protects consumers, enhances business credibility, and ensures smooth access to the UK market. 

  • Protects public health: Ensuring materials do not leach harmful substances helps maintain high drinking water quality and prevents contamination.  
  • Market access: Manufacturers and suppliers must meet BS 6920 requirements for their products to be approved for installation in the UK.  
  • Consumer confidence: Certified products reassure consumers and businesses that water quality remains uncompromised. 
  • Sustainability commitment: Safe water infrastructure supports long-term sustainability goals by preserving clean water resources. 

Kiwa: Your trusted partner for BS 6920 testing 

Kiwa provides expert BS 6920 testing through our accredited laboratories. Our certification process includes: 

  • Rigorous material testing 
  • Expert analysis by water quality specialists 
  • Full compliance with UK water regulations 

We are proud to announce that Kiwa UK has been officially accepted by the Drinking Water Inspectorate (DWI) as a listed laboratory for BS 6920 testing under Water Regulation 31. This recognition reinforces our expertise and commitment to water safety.

For more information visit the DWI website: https://www.dwi.gov.uk/drinking-water-products/laboratory-information/designated-test-laboratories-and-consultants/  

Get started with BS 6920 certification 

Ensuring compliance with BS 6920 is vital for businesses supplying water-related products in the UK. Kiwa is here to help you through the process with efficient and reliable testing services. 

Learn more about our BS 6920 services and how we can support your compliance journey: https://www.kiwa.com/en/service2/testing/drinking-water-materials-testing-bs-6920/