FORCE Technology develops new test methods for the Danish Enterprise and Construction Authority and the Agency for Spatial and Environmental Planning. Nickel release is in focus both with the authorities, tap manufacturers and consumers.

When products that get in contact with drinking water are VA-approved today, they are tested for lead and cadmium release, but not for nickel release. However, for many years it has been well known that nickel plated products may release significant amounts of nickel to the drinking water, enough to provoke allergic reactions.

FORCE Technology now develops new test methods for the Danish Enterprise and Construction Authority and the Agency for Spatial and Environmental Planning. This is aimed at further extending the rules for VA-approvals.

Faster and simpler test methods 

Today consumers, who wish to avoid high amounts of nickel in their drinking water, are forced to let their water run a while, before drinking it. Or they can choose a tap that is not nickel and chromium plated – but only few people are aware of that. 

The only recognised method for measuring nickel release is a rig-test that takes 26 weeks. But faster and simpler test methods would be able to ensure increased protection for the consumers, and at the same time it is of high importance to the manufacturers of taps that they will not have to wait so long to get their products approved. 

”We look forward to getting faster test methods”, says Willy Goldby, Director of the trade association VELTEK. ”When a product has been fully developed after perhaps several years, it will have to undergo testing for 26 weeks prior to it being sent on the market. That is overshooting the mark”.

Spread knowledge about legislation

FORCE Technology has worked with metal release to drinking water for many years. We have participated in European Standardisation for several years we have partaken in consulting Danish and European legislators and manufacturers. ”We also consult FORCE Technology at our associates’ meetings and seminars, where you communicate the latest news and legislation within the field in Europe”, Willy Goldby proceeds.

A dialogue with the industry

”It is a great advantage that we have GTS companies in Denmark such as FORCE Technology, who can take part in these projects. You know the industry’s stance on various issues through your ongoing dialogue with us; and we feel sure and confident that this project, which we watch closely, will also be followed through sensibly, to the authorities, to the industry and to you”, concludes Willy Goldby.