NSF Certification of Mechanical Devices

The many mechanical devices used in water treatment and distribution range from treatment plant components (such as filter underdrains and chemical feeders) to residential products like pressurized water storage tanks, valves and water meters. Because these products deliver and treat our water supply, few consider the question: "What assures that the products themselves do not contribute harmful contaminants to the water supply?"

ANSI/NSF Standard 61, Section 8, sets criteria for evaluating the amount of contaminants that may leach out of mechanical devices into drinking water. Mechanical devices Certified by NSF undergo a thorough material formulation review by NSF toxicologists. Production facilities are audited by NSF staff to verify the materials, material sources and manufacturing processes. NSF auditors also collect products for testing in NSF laboratories. In a 17-day extraction process, products and component materials are tested at pH 5, pH 8 and pH 10 to ensure that products will not leach harmful levels of contaminants under varying water chemistries.

A Heightened Level of Public Awareness

California's Proposition 65 and the Safe Drinking Water Act Amendments of 1996 have focused public attention on the leaching of lead from brass devices. Several manufacturers have recently sought certification under Standard 61 to reduce product liability and increase marketability. Although lead has received the most public attention, NSF Standard 61 requires evaluation of all contaminants with the potential to cause adverse health effects. When water utilities specify and use products Certified to Standard 61, they can be assured that the products themselves will not contribute harmful contaminants of any kind to the drinking water.

NSF has received comments on the lack of availability of certain Certified products, such as pilot-controlled valves and high-volume pumps. However, manufacturers have an incentive to seek Certification only when utilities demand it. Demand by water utilities and regulators encourages manufacturers to seek Certification, and due to this demand, the number of Certified components-such as sludge scrapers, weirs and baffles-will continue to grow.

NSF appreciates the support and confidence that water regulators and utility officials and staff have shown in NSF Certification of drinking water additives products. We encourage you to continue to refer product manufacturers to NSF at (800) NSF-MARK for information about Certification to Standard 61.

NSF Certification of Mechanical Devices