In Denmark all polymeric materials used in the drinking water system must be approved and evaluated for release of harmful substances if the materials are intended for household use. The products must obtain an official approval popularly known as a VA approval (VA godkendelse). VA is an abbreviation for the Danish words for water and outlet. VA approvals concern all installations that are connected to the drinking water supply network including water taps, fittings, mixer taps, ice cube machines, soda fountains, etc.
What is a VA approval?
VA approvals are issued to products that do not affect the drinking water quality and that do not release substances harmful to human health. Consequently, products must not affect the taste or smell of the drinking water or liberate substances affecting the water turbidity. Substances that affect the drinking water include phthalates (a common plastic softener), metals, phenols, and colorants, degradation products from antioxidants etc.
How to obtain a VA approval
To obtain a VA approval the products must be tested. First of all it must be ascertained if the product contains problematic substances. This is done by examining the product composition of parts that are in direct contact with drinking water. If they contain any problematic substances the product must be tested at a test laboratory. If the test results are satisfactory then the VA approval is issued by ETA-Denmark (by authorization of the Danish Enterprise and Construction Authority).
Must I have a VA approval?
VA approvals are only issued for products that are connected to the drinking water supply network. Products not connected to the water supply network are not covered by the VA approval system but by the EU legislation on food contact materials. Whether the installation is covered by the VA system or by the food legislation, products must not liberate substances that are harmful to human health.
At DHI we have extensive experience in both VA approvals and food contact material legislation.