UL launches low-lead certification programme

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has launched a certification programme to help manufacturers of cooking- and plumbing-related products demonstrate compliance with new low-lead requirements.

These strict requirements are now mandatory in California and Vermont.

The California Assembly Bill 1953 (AB 1953), now a state law, was passed in order to update section 116,875 of the California Health and Safety Code.

The law requires no more than 0.2 per cent lead by weight in solder and flux used in the installation or repair of any public water system or any residential or non-residential facility that provides water for human consumption.

AB 1953 also requires no more than a weighted average of 0.25 per cent lead by weight when used with respect to the wetted surfaces of pipes and pipe fittings, plumbing fittings and fixtures.

UL's new certification programme will test materials to demonstrate compliance with both the California Health and Safety Code and similar legislation in Vermont.

It will allow manufacturers who are required to demonstrate compliance with the California Health and Safety Code, but who are not covered by - or specifically included in - Annex G of ANSI/NSF 61, to obtain the proper product safety certification.

Jeff Smith, general manager of the UL Global Water Business, said: 'UL is giving manufacturers their first option of demonstrating compliance with new low-lead laws using a means other than Annex G.

'We decided not to wait for Annex G to be updated or the creation of a new standard to offer our valued customers California Department of Toxic Substances Control [DTSC]-recognised product validation.

'Now, manufacturers can quickly and efficiently navigate the compliance processes recognised by the DTSC and required by state law,' he added.

UL will also continue to support the industry by providing certification to Annex G of ANSI/NSF 61 as announced in April 2009.

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