Materials in contact with drinking water

Materials in contact with drinking water: what’s changing with the new European Directive (DWD)?

The Italian transposition of Directive (EU) 2020/2184 (Drinking Water Directive - DWD) introduces stricter requirements for materials used in products that come into contact with drinking water. Some traditional materials, such as CW617N brass, no longer meet the new European standards.

The Italian government has granted a derogation until 2030/2032, provided that:

Products are accompanied by a Declaration of Conformity issued by December 31, 2026
Each component is individually tested, as well as tested in its entirety, for global and specific migration
 Tests are conducted in accordance with Ministerial Decree 174/2004

Opportunity for Italian companies: this derogation allows for a gradual transition to alternative materials with low or zero lead content, but requires technical and documentary rigor.

The Declaration of Conformity is not a simple form: it is the result of a traceable process, validated by third-party bodies accredited under ISO 17065 or ISO 17020.

Are you a manufacturer, supplier, or designer in the plumbing and water systems sector? Now is the time to plan your transition and ensure compliance.

Contact us if you’d like to learn more or need technical support for certification.