WRAS (Water Regulations Advisory Scheme) is the authoritative safety certification in the UK for products and materials that come into contact with drinking water. It serves as a compliance passport for entering the UK and Commonwealth markets.
I. Core Overview
• Full Name: Water Regulations Advisory Scheme
• Governing Body: WRAS Ltd. (managed by the Water Research Centre, WRc-nsf)
• Legal Basis: UK water regulations, such as the *Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999*
• Primary Objective: To prevent water contamination, backflow, and wastage, thereby ensuring the safety of the public drinking water supply.
• Scope: The United Kingdom (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland); also recognized and adopted as a reference by many other countries.
II. Two Main Types of Certification (Key Information)
1. Materials Approval
• Scope: All non-metallic materials that come into contact with drinking water (e.g., silicone, rubber, plastics, coatings, lubricants, etc.).
• Testing Standard: BS 6920 (the primary standard).
• Testing Criteria:
◦ No release of toxic substances (such as heavy metals or organic compounds).
◦ No adverse effect on the color, odor, or taste of the water.
◦ No promotion of microbial growth.
◦ Resistance to water-induced aging and degradation (ensuring no contamination from material breakdown).
• Regarding Silicone: Silicone must first obtain Materials Approval before it can be used in finished products that come into contact with water, such as faucets, valves, or baby bottle teats. 2. Product Approval
• Scope: Complete finished products (faucets, valves, piping, water meters, water heaters, sanitary ware, etc.)
• Testing Criteria:
◦ Material safety (including material certification)
◦ Mechanical performance (pressure resistance, leak-tightness, durability/service life)
◦ Backflow prevention (preventing wastewater from flowing back into the main water supply)
◦ Water conservation and prevention of misuse
III. Key Certification Details
• Validity: 5 years; re-testing and renewal are required upon expiration.
• Official Directory: Approved products are listed in the "Water Fittings and Materials Directory" (updated in April and October each year).
• Unique Identifier: Each certification carries a unique number, which can be verified for authenticity via the official website.
• Use of Mark: Upon approval, products may bear the "WRAS Approved" mark.
IV. Importance (for Silicone/Water-Contact Products)
1. UK Mandatory Requirement: Products without WRAS approval cannot be used in the UK's public water supply system.
2. Global Recognition: Widely accepted in the EU, the Middle East, Australia, Singapore, and other regions.
3. High-End Market Gateway: Serves as a quality endorsement for products intended for food, medical, or water utility applications.
V. Comparison with Other Common Certifications (Summary Table)
• WRAS: UK water industry standard (BS 6920); focuses on drinking water safety.
• FDA: US standard for food-contact materials; focuses on indirect food contact.
• KTW/WRC (KFWS): German water industry standard; focuses on the safety of metal/plastic materials in contact with water.
• ACS: French water industry standard; required for market access in France.